Pinglin Tea Plantation & Thousand Island Lake Tour (Taipei) — Half Day

When you think of Taipei, you probably picture a vibrant city with skyscrapers, shops and street food galore. However, there’s one trip from the capital that will totally change your perspective: a day tour to Thousand Island Lake and Pinglin Tea Plantation. This region showcases the best of Taiwan’s natural beauty, from towering tea terraces to rolling rice fields and clear, sparkling water.

‘‘Overlooking the emerald lake surrounded by so much greenery, it was easily one of the most serene experiences I've had this year.’’ — Taipei Foodie

Just a short drive from the capital, it’s easy to see the best of the Pinglin region over a half-day trip. We’ll depart early, aiming to beat the crowds and arrive at Thousand Island Lake by 8am. Interestingly, this scenic spot is not actually a lake but a tributary of Xindian River, the islands actually the tips of long-submerged mountains.

This captivating destination can only be topped by our next stop: the Pinglin Tea Plantation. Here, vibrant green terraces stretch as far as the eye can see, peppered with locals in rice hats tending to the tea.

Since no tea trip would be complete without a brew, you’ll have the chance to sample Oolong and Wen Mountain Pouchong tea before we head to the Pinglin Tea Museum. Here, you’ll fill up on the history and knowledge of tea, one of the greatest contributions of Chinese culture to the world!

‘‘Here you can enjoy delicious delicacies, as well as learn how to make tea.’’ — Living Nomads