Taiwan’s tea culture is more than a tradition—it’s a sensory journey steeped in elegance, heritage, and artistry. From mist-veiled mountain plantations to boutique teahouses in the heart of the city, the island offers sophisticated experiences for those seeking more than just a brew. Here’s your insider guide to Taiwan’s finest teas—and the regions where you can enjoy them in their most authentic form.

High Mountain Oolong: The Star of the Show

Grown in misty elevations above 1,000 meters, Taiwan’s high mountain oolongs are prized for their clarity and depth. Alishan teas offer honeyed notes and soft florals, while Lishan’s rarer harvests yield a crisp, fruity complexity worthy of seasoned palates.

Where to Enjoy: Head to Alishan or Lishan to appreciate these teas at the source. Many tea farms welcome visitors for tastings, often set against a stunning backdrop of layered mountain views and rolling tea fields.

Dong Ding Oolong: Taiwan’s Heritage in a Cup

Dong Ding oolong, from Lugu in Nantou, is roasted to perfection for a mellow, toasty character. Its amber hue and nostalgic flavor make it a connoisseur’s classic.

Where to Enjoy: The Lugu region offers tea houses and cultural centers that specialize in traditional roasting methods and aged teas, providing a deep dive into Taiwan’s tea heritage.

Red Oolong: The Newcomer with a Twist

Developed in Taitung’s Luye region, Red Oolong blends black tea’s richness with oolong’s elegance. It’s deeply oxidized, naturally sweet, and surprisingly fruity.

Where to Enjoy: Visit Luye in Taitung, where Red Oolong was first developed. Several farms and cooperatives now offer immersive tastings and tea-making experiences in a lush countryside setting.

Baozhong Tea: Light and Elegant

Baozhong from Pinglin is Taiwan’s most lightly oxidized tea—floral, fresh, and mellow. A favorite for those who enjoy clean, green flavors with aromatic complexity.

Where to Enjoy: Pinglin, just outside of Taipei, is the heart of Baozhong production. It’s the perfect day-trip for tea lovers looking to sip among terraced hills and explore local tea culture.

A Tea Journey with Style

For those looking to deepen their appreciation beyond the teacup, a guided experience offers something more immersive. MyTaiwanTour’s Tea Culture Day Tour invites tea lovers to walk the fields, craft their own tea leaves, and bring home a bag of freshly roasted oolong—a souvenir steeped in story and flavor.

Whether it’s high in the mountains or within a hidden teahouse in the city, Taiwan’s tea culture invites you to slow down and savor something truly refined.