close-up of a young green tea plant in Taiwan, part of a Taiwan tour experience. Fresh Camellia sinensis leaves.

Taiwan Tea Cultural Tour

A Sip of Taiwan: The Island's Iconic Tea Legacy

We are excited to introduce a unique tour that combines sightseeing with Taiwan’s rich tea culture. This journey will take you through some of Taiwan’s most famous tea-growing regions, offering an immersive experience in the world of Taiwanese tea. You’ll gain insight into the art of tea cultivation, harvesting, drying, and brewing. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or new to the world of tea, this tour will provide a fascinating look into Taiwan’s tea traditions, offering hands-on experiences that highlight the delicate processes involved in making some of the world’s finest teas.

Highlights of the Taiwan Tea Cultural Tour

Visit Tea-Producing Regions and Tasting Unique Tea Flavors

We’ll take you deep into Taiwan’s renowned tea-producing regions, from high-altitude mountain plantations to fertile lowlands. The unique climate conditions in each area nurture distinct tea profiles. You’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of teas, including black tea, green tea, Tieguanyin, oolong, and red oolong. Be amazed by the diversity of Taiwanese teas as you experience the refreshing aromas of mountain-grown teas and the rich, robust flavors of lowland teas. This is not just a journey for your taste buds but also an exploration of Taiwan’s rich tea culture.

Experience the Joy of Tea Picking, Processing, and Custom Tea Bag Creation

Step into a picturesque tea plantation, where you’ll have the chance to harvest tender tea leaves and immerse yourself in the fresh, invigorating air of nature. Participate in traditional tea-making processes, from rolling to drying, each step reflecting the craftsmanship and dedication of tea artisans. Finally, create your very own custom tea bags, blending flavors to suit your preferences. Take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir to cherish the memories of this unique experience.

A Unique Tea Ceremony Amid a Bamboo Forest Sanctuary

We’ve arranged a special tea ceremony in a serene bamboo forest, offering you a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Surrounded by towering bamboo, the fragrant aroma of freshly brewed tea wafts through the gentle breeze, complemented by exquisitely crafted tea snacks. Under the guidance of a skilled tea master, you’ll embrace the meditative art of mindful tea drinking. This enchanting ceremony, set against the tranquil beauty of nature, will leave an indelible impression on your soul—a truly immersive sensory experience of Taiwan’s tea culture.

An Exciting Itinerary for the Taiwan Tea Cultural Tour

Day 1

Welcome to Taiwan – a beautiful island with charming nature and diverse culture. Upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), you will be met and transferred to the hotel in an accessible vehicle . Once we drop you off at the hotel, you’ll have some free time to relax and get settled after your journey. 

Day 2

On the first day of our immersive tour, we begin our journey through Taipei’s rich history and tea culture with a visit to the renowned National Palace Museum. Beyond the famous “National Treasures,” this world-class museum offers a fascinating collection of ancient and finely crafted tea wares that reveal the artistry and significance of tea in Taiwan’s cultural heritage.

Next, we will take you to the historic Longshan Temple, one of the oldest temples in Taipei. After offering your respects, we’ll stroll through the nearby Herbal Lane, a hidden gem known for its unique selection of medicinal herbs and dried plants. Here, you’ll learn how these herbs are often brewed into herbal teas, a vital part of Taiwanese food therapy.

From here, we’ll step into the past with a visit to an old tea house, where you’ll have the chance to taste the finest teas Taiwan has to offer. Imagine the rich fragrance of freshly brewed tea filling the air as you sit back and savor its smooth, floral notes. The traditional wooden shelves, the gentle clink of tea cups, and the sound of the tea master’s precise pouring all create a soothing and timeless atmosphere.

Finally, as evening falls, we will wander through the bustling Huaxi Street Night Market, where you’ll get a taste of Taipei’s vibrant street food scene.

Taiwan Oolong tea leaves in a white jar.

Day 3

Today, we will take you to Yilan, where you’ll step into a refreshing tea plantation. Here, you’ll have the chance to personally pick tender green tea leaves and experience the tea-making process. You will also be able to make and enjoy green tea mochi.

After the tea plantation experience, we will head to the famous Kavalan Whisky Distillery, one of the most renowned distilleries in the world. Here, you can savor the unique charm of whisky.

At the end of the day, we will go to Pingxi to release sky lanterns. Standing under the open sky, you can send your wishes and blessings into the air as the lanterns float up.

farmer smiling in the field

Day 4

On this day, we will head to Maokong, a beautiful tea region located in the mountains of Taipei, where you will take the Maokong Gondola and enjoy panoramic views of Taipei. Upon arrival, we will visit the Tie Guan Yin and Baozhong Tea Research and Promotion Center, where you can learn about the history and production process of Taiwanese tea. For lunch, you will enjoy a unique meal featuring tea-infused dishes. Each dish incorporates tea in a different way, from tea-flavored fried rice and tea oil noodles to crispy tea-leaf fritters, allowing your taste buds to experience the wonderful fusion of tea and cuisine.

In the afternoon, we will drive to Taichung, the birthplace of bubble tea—Chun Shui Tang. Here, you will have the opportunity to make your own bubble tea, experiencing the endless charm of this iconic Taiwanese drink.

milk tea served in a cup in taiwan bobba

Day 5

Today, we will journey to the poetic and picturesque Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s most renowned lake, celebrated for its delicious black tea. Our adventure begins with a visit to a local tea factory, where you will learn about the cultivation and production of black tea. Here, you’ll have the chance to blend your favorite flavors and craft your own personalized tea bag—a unique keepsake from Sun Moon Lake.

tea leaves and sachets

In the afternoon, we’ll indulge in the tranquility of the lake’s stunning surroundings. You can choose to take a relaxing boat ride and admire the seamless connection of sky and water or hop on a bike to explore the serene beauty along the lakeside cycling path.

Next, we’ll head to the bustling Ita Thao Old Street, home to the indigenous Thao people. Here, you can savor their signature dishes, such as bamboo rice and roasted mountain boar, which embody the rich flavors of the region’s natural bounty.

Sun Moon Lake

Day 6

Today, we will embark on a journey to one of Taiwan’s most iconic natural landmarks – Alishan, where stepping into the forest feels like entering a magical green sanctuary.

We will take the Alishan Forest Railway, a historic railway with over a century of history, and one of the few high-altitude railways in the world.

Then, we will enjoy a leisurely hike along the forest trails, weaving through ancient trees that have stood for thousands of years. These majestic giants seem to be silent guardians, telling the stories of time.

A Restful Mountain Retreat – Alishan National Scenic Area

Day 7

In the morning, we will head to the secret bamboo forest of Alishan, where we will hold a unique tea ceremony experience. The gentle breeze rustles the bamboo leaves, and the fragrance of tea drifts through the air, blending with the sounds of nature. In this tranquil setting, you will experience a tea ceremony guided by a tea master, savoring every sip of tea and feeling the relaxation and calmness take over your mind and body.

Next, we will head to Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan. We will wander through the alleys of this ancient city, visiting places like Shennong Street and the Grand Mazu Temple where you will learn about the cultural significance of Mazu worship in Taiwan. Of course, we will also indulge in traditional local snacks, and you’ll discover the distinct flavors of northern and southern Taiwan!

Tea Table in the Bamboo Forest

Day 8

Today, we will head to Taitung’s Luye, located in southeastern Taiwan, where a unique variety of Red Oolong tea is produced in this scenic valley. We will experience the tea-sealing ceremony, a symbolic ritual in which you write down your hopes, blessings, or wishes for the future on a piece of paper, which is then sealed together with tea leaves in a tea canister. This blend of tea and personal wishes will surprise you with delightful memories when you open it years later, allowing you to savor not only the flavor of the tea but also relive the emotions and blessings of that moment.

Afterward, we will visit the National Museum of Prehistory in Taiwan, a treasure trove for understanding the indigenous cultures of Taiwan. The museum showcases rich historical relics, crafts, and artifacts, providing you with an in-depth insight into the lives and history of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples.

Hands opening a small jar with a label.

Day 9

Today, we will drive to Taiwan’s second-largest city, Kaohsiung.

Our first stop is the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. This magnificent Buddhist complex will give you a comprehensive understanding of Buddhist teachings and philosophy.

Next, we will take a ferry to Cijin Island. Here, you will hop on an electric bike and, with the breeze gently caressing you, ride along the coastal paths, experiencing a unique charm of this harbor city.

Afterward, we will head to the Pier-2 Art Center. Originally an old warehouse district, it has been transformed into a vibrant hub for contemporary art. You can enjoy creative art exhibitions and stroll through design-filled cultural shops, feeling the youthful energy and vitality of Kaohsiung.

buddha temple

Day 10

This tea culture journey will come to a perfect end today as we take the high-speed rail to Taoyuan Airport, preparing to conclude this unforgettable trip.

Along the way, you’ll recall the charming tea plantations, the refreshing fragrance of tea, and the ritualistic tea ceremonies, with these beautiful memories lingering in your heart.

Come to Explore Taiwan's Tea Culture: From Mountains to Cups.

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