Hawaii National Bank

About the Entrepreneur

Michael Wu, owner of Chinatown’s Tea Hut, is not only an importer and retailer but a master of the laws used for spatial arrangement and orientation to provide better flow of qi, or good energy, and to avoid unfavorable energy. Wu describes Feng Shui as a lifestyle rather than a religion, and notes that the flow of qi changes every Chinese New Year and affects every Chinese zodiac differently.

When Tea Hut opened its doors in 1991, Wu’s intention was to introduce authentic Chinese and Taiwanese tea to the Chinatown and Honolulu community. As businesses tend to do throughout decades, Tea Hut has since evolved in response to the needs of their curious customers who, it turns out, were interested in more than just tea. Wu slowly expanded his focus to include beads, crystals, art, gifts, lucky charms, and Feng Shui items as well as professional Feng Shui consultations by none other than Wu himself.

More with Michael

Tell us how your business has grown and evolved over the past 30 years.

We started with a tea business selling high-end tea. As the market changed, we changed to a retail and import business, bringing in items such as home decorations, fashion jewelry, etc. In 2009, I started to learn Feng Shui and birthday readings and have incorporated those services into the business as well.

How long have you banked with Hawaii National Bank and what do you like most about being a customer?

I have been with Hawaii National Bank about 20 years, and I love that the staff is friendly and always provides the services that I need.

What are a few important things any new business owner should know?

Find a good location and find out your personal luck before entering into a business. After that pay attention to the environment and marketing.

What do you love about doing business in Chinatown?

I have been in Chinatown since we opened, and it has changed a lot. Chinatown has changed to become better and cleaner. We love helping our community find gifts for friends or helping people who are looking for better luck in their life. Tea Hut helps people to find what they need.