Sip Heritage Tea🍵
#falladventures #ipoh #travel
Visiting Ho Yan Hor Museum in Ipoh was one of the most unexpectedly meaningful stops of my one-day trip. I’ve always known Ho Yan Hor herbal tea as something our parents and grandparents drink whenever they “heatiness” hits, but stepping into this museum made me realise how much history, effort, and innovation were behind this iconic Malaysian brand.
The museum itself is located in an old restored shophouse, and once you step inside, it truly feels like traveling through time. The tour brings you room to room, each section telling a different chapter of Dr. Ho Kai Cheong’s life — the founder who started brewing herbal tea from his home kitchen in 1941. I really enjoyed how immersive it was: original furniture, old medical tools, handwritten notes, vintage packaging, and even the early machinery used to process herbs were displayed so neatly. Every room had its own vibe, and the storytelling was very easy to follow.
One of my favourite parts was learning how Dr. Ho would cycle around town to sell the tea during the war years. Imagine how tough life was back then, yet he persisted and eventually created a product that became a staple in almost every Malaysian household. The museum also showcases how the brand evolved from simple herbal packets to today’s modern instant teas. It made me appreciate so much more the cup of Ho Yan Hor I grew up drinking.
There’s also a tasting section where you can try different blends — the original, the gold version, and even newer cooling recipes. After walking through all the rooms, sipping the tea felt extra meaningful because now I understood the story behind it. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable, and they made the whole experience smooth and enjoyable.
If you’re planning an Ipoh trip, especially during the fall season when the weather is great for walking around town, I definitely recommend booking your museum slot beforehand because weekends get crowded. It’s a short visit, but incredibly rich in culture, history, and nostalgia. A must-visit for anyone who appreciates Malaysian heritage.