Craving something fun, refreshing, and uniquely Taiwanese? Bubble tea—also known as boba—is more than just a sweet drink. It’s a global sensation with deep roots in Taiwan, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than right here where it all began.

The origin of bubble tea dates back to the 1980s in Taichung. At Chun Shui Tang, a local teahouse, the idea of serving traditional tea cold was inspired by Japanese iced coffee. When tapioca pearls were added to the mix, the result was a chewy, flavorful creation that quickly became a hit across Taiwan—and eventually the world.

Today, bubble tea shops can be found everywhere from Taipei to New York, but there’s something special about experiencing it in its birthplace. Whether you're sipping on the original at Chun Shui Tang or exploring trendy spots like 50 Lan and Tiger Sugar, Taiwan offers a full spectrum of bubble tea flavors and styles.

What makes bubble tea so addictive? It’s the customizable experience—from the tea base to the level of sweetness, the texture of the toppings, and the visual delight of seeing it all shaken to perfection. This playful, interactive nature is part of why it’s captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people everywhere.

Want to go beyond just drinking it? Join one of our curated food tours in Taipei or Taichung and learn the story behind Taiwan’s most iconic beverage, or simply make one by yourself in an exclusive cooking class! 

Book your bubble tea adventure with MyTaiwanTour and taste Taiwan’s most famous cultural sip!

Looking to level up beyond just staying in Taipei? Check out our authentic New Taipei Foodie Tour 😋

Ready to roll up your sleeves and cook like a local? ➡️ Join our Market Tour and Cooking Class 🧑‍🍳