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7-Day Private Tea Tour of Taiwan Itinerary
Day 1 – Taipei City
- Fly into Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei. By the time you’ve transferred to your hotel in the capital, we’ll have finalized a plan for the rest of the day that matches your interests and energy levels.
- Depending on time available, this may include a thorough look at Dadaocheng, one of the oldest and most interesting parts of Taipei. Some of the tea businesses here have been operating for more than 150 years; the tea trade paid for many of the ornate baroque-revival buildings on Dihua Street. We’ll experience a tea ceremony, led by a local tea master and featuring a selection of Taiwan’s finest teas. Alternatively, we may take the Maokong Gondola up to the tea plantations in the southwestern part of the capital, and have dinner – with some excellent local tea, of course – at our favorite restaurant, watching the lights of Taipei flicker in the distance.
Day 2 – Hualien County
- We’ll be making a reasonably early start today and driving to Hualien on the east coast. We can break this four-hour drive with a stop at the hot & cold springs park in Jiaoxi in Yilan County. If your interest in delightful liquids goes beyond tea, we can instead detour to the Kavalan Distillery where one of the world’s newest whisky brands has been producing prize-winning editions.
- A large part of the population in the east is of indigenous Austronesian descent and these tribes have their own distinct cuisines. At the acclaimed aboriginal restaurant Dageeli we’ll enjoy some indigenous delicacies before heading into Hualien. After we’ve set you up in your hotel and you’ve taken a rest, we can look around this lively city of 100,000 people.
Day 3 – Ruisui District
- Basing ourselves in Hualien, today we’ll drive an hour and a quarter through the bucolic East Rift Valley to Ruisui for scenery and, naturally, more tea. The district is famous for its hot springs; if you want to soak, bring your swimsuit. Along the way, we can make a stop at Danongdafu Forest Park, a former sugar plantation that’s been turned into a sprawling recreational woodland.
- Ruisui, located just north of where the Tropic of Cancer crosses Taiwan, produces a variety of teas. At Wuhe Tea Plantation the oolongs include qingxin oolong tea, jinxuan tea, and jade oolong. What’s called ‘honey peach black tea’ on account of its sweet and fruity aroma was created by happy accident. A plantation owner embracing pesticide-free farming methods discovered that his leaves were being chewed by leaf-hopper insects, and after drying them noticed the flavour was subtly yet pleasantly altered.
Day 4 – Scenic Mountain Drive to Sun Moon Lake
- Much of the day will be spent on a long but breathtakingly scenic drive. From Hualien, we’ll pass through the stupendous Taroko Gorge then climb high into the Central Mountain Range that separates east Taiwan from the island’s flatter, more populated western half. The road crests at two miles above sea level, but before then we’ll likely halt for a cup of hot ginger tea at Bilu Sacred Tree, a 50m high, 3,200-year-old Lunta fir.
- We’ll make regular stops so you can photograph the gorgeous panoramas, then descend toward one of Taiwan’s most famous attractions, Sun Moon Lake. You’ll arrive in time to see the lake (by private boat, if you let us know in advance) and take a short rest in your hotel before dinner.
Day 5 – Tea Plantations
- After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll lead you through some non-tea sightseeing. Among the lakeside attractions we’ll visit are Cien Pagoda (built on the orders of Chiang Kai-shek to honour his late mother), and a pair of temples that preserve relics associated with Xuan Zang, a Buddhist monk revered for travelling from China to India in 7th century and translating religious texts.
- After lunch, you can stretch your legs at the nearby Antique Assam Tea Farm, a restored Japanese-era tea plantation which is as educational as it is scenic. It’ll then be time to say goodbye to the lake and head to the oolong-growing part of the mountainous Alishan region. Dinner will be near your accommodation at Shizhuo, 1,000 m or so above sea level and another famous tea-growing area. We recommend a local speciality: chicken basted in tea oil.
Day 6 – Tea Plantations
- We’ll have the entire day to explore the Greater Alishan region, visit tea plantations, meet farmers and try their teas. The scenery throughout is wonderful; if you’d like to go for a hike, we’ll show you a trail that matches your physical condition.
- We can go for a gentle stroll through the forests around Fenqihu (a tiny town that grew up to service the logging railway), take a look at Dinghu, a tea-growing village even higher than Shizhuo, or meet a lady who gathers wild coffee in the indigenous village of Laiji.
Day 7 – Wrap up
- Whatever time you fly out, we’ll help you make the very most of your final day in Taiwan. Before putting you on the bullet train at Chiayi HSR Station, we can bring you to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum, which has a superb permanent exhibition about tea culture, as well as sections devoted to Asian textiles, Buddhist Art and other themes.
If this 7-day private tea tour of Taiwan is not what you are looking for, take a quick look at our 5-day private tea tour of Taiwan and the 3-day private tea tour of Taiwan.
7-Day Private Tea Tour of Taiwan: A Complete Journey Through Flavor, Culture, and Scenery
Dive deep into the heart of Taiwanese tea culture with a 7-Day Private Tea Tour of Taiwan, an immersive experience that explores the island’s most renowned tea regions and hidden gems. This carefully curated journey is perfect for tea enthusiasts and travelers seeking a blend of cultural discovery, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class tea experiences.
Over the course of seven days, you’ll traverse Taiwan’s diverse terrain—from bustling cities and tranquil lakesides to misty mountains—while uncovering the stories and craftsmanship behind the teas that have earned Taiwan global acclaim.
For a shorter experience, our 3-Day Tea Tour of Taiwan provides a compact introduction to Taiwanese tea, while the 5-Day Private Tea Tour of Taiwan strikes a balance between depth and time efficiency.
Why Choose the 7-Day Private Tea Tour of Taiwan?
This Private Tour of Taiwan offers the most comprehensive tea experience, combining visits to iconic tea regions, hands-on workshops, and cultural exploration. Here’s why it’s the ultimate choice for tea lovers:
1. A Complete Tea Journey
Spanning seven days, this tour covers Taiwan’s key tea-producing regions, from Pinglin and Sun Moon Lake to the high-altitude plantations of Alishan. You’ll learn about the history, cultivation, and production of teas like oolong, black tea, and Baozhong while savoring their unique flavors.
2. Private and Customizable
As a private tour, your itinerary is tailored to your interests and pace. Whether you want to delve into tea-making techniques, spend time exploring Taiwan’s natural beauty, or discover local food and culture, your experience will be uniquely yours.
3. Enriching Activities in Stunning Settings
Taiwan’s tea plantations are nestled in some of the island’s most scenic locations. From misty mountain slopes to serene lakesides, every destination offers not only exceptional tea but also awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural experiences.
Highlights of the 7-Day Tea Tour of Taiwan
The 7-Day Private Tea Tour of Taiwan combines hands-on tea experiences with cultural exploration and scenic beauty, ensuring a well-rounded and unforgettable journey.
Exploring Taiwan’s Tea Heritage in Taipei
Begin your journey in the capital city, where tradition meets modernity. Visit iconic landmarks like the National Palace Museum, home to tea-related artifacts that illuminate Taiwan’s rich tea history. Explore Maokong, a famous tea-growing region on the outskirts of Taipei, where you’ll enjoy freshly brewed teas with panoramic views of the city.
Discovering Pinglin’s Baozhong Tea
Pinglin, a short drive from Taipei, is a hub for Wenshan Baozhong tea. Visit the Pinglin Tea Museum to gain insight into the art of tea-making, stroll through verdant tea fields, and interact with local tea farmers. Participate in a tea-picking experience to see firsthand how Baozhong tea is produced.
Experiencing Sun Moon Lake’s Black Tea
Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan’s most picturesque destinations, is also home to some of the island’s finest black tea. Visit local plantations to learn about the unique production methods behind this bold and aromatic tea. A guided tea tasting will allow you to savor its complex flavors while enjoying the serene beauty of the lake.
Immersing Yourself in Alishan’s High-Mountain Tea Culture
The high-altitude plantations of Alishan are famous for their exquisite oolong teas. Here, you’ll visit family-run farms, participate in tea-tasting workshops, and learn traditional brewing techniques. The region’s cool climate and misty conditions create ideal growing conditions, resulting in teas with floral notes and a smooth finish.
Visiting Lugu’s Dong Ding Tea Plantations
Lugu, the birthplace of Dong Ding oolong tea, is a must-visit for tea enthusiasts. Learn about the unique roasting process that gives this tea its signature flavor, and enjoy a tasting session to experience its rich and robust character.
Exploring Traditional Tea Villages and Markets
Throughout your journey, you’ll visit charming tea villages and vibrant markets, where you can meet local artisans, sample traditional snacks, and immerse yourself in the daily life of Taiwan’s tea culture.
Scenic Adventures Alongside Tea Exploration
Beyond tea, this tour incorporates opportunities to explore Taiwan’s natural beauty. Walk through the marble cliffs of Taroko Gorge, take a boat ride on Sun Moon Lake, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Taiwan’s mountain trails.
The Benefits of a Private Tea Tour of Taiwan
Choosing our Private Tour of Taiwan ensures that every aspect of your trip is designed to maximize comfort, convenience, and enjoyment.
- Personalized Itineraries: Tailor the experience to suit your interests, whether you prefer hands-on tea-making workshops, cultural exploration, or time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into Taiwan’s tea traditions, ensuring an engaging and educational journey.
- Seamless Travel: With private transportation and carefully selected accommodations, your trip will be smooth, stress-free, and comfortable.
If you’re looking for a shorter adventure, the 3-Day and 5-Day Tea Tours of Taiwan offer similarly enriching experiences with more condensed itineraries.
Conclusion
The 7-Day Private Tea Tour of Taiwan is the ultimate way to explore the island’s tea culture and natural beauty. From the lush fields of Pinglin and the serene shores of Sun Moon Lake to the misty peaks of Alishan, every moment of this journey is designed to deepen your appreciation for Taiwan’s tea traditions and breathtaking landscapes.
Whether you’re a lifelong tea enthusiast or simply curious to learn more, this extended tour offers an unforgettable cultural and sensory experience.
Ready to plan your tea adventure? Contact us today to customize your Private Tea Tour of Taiwan and start your journey into the world of Taiwanese tea!