When you think of Taipei, you probably picture a vibrant city with skyscrapers, shops and street food galore. However, there&rsquo;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&rsquo;s natural beauty, from towering tea terraces to rolling rice fields and clear, sparkling water.
&lsquo;&lsquo;Overlooking the emerald lake surrounded by so much greenery, it was easily one of the most serene experiences I've had this year.&rsquo;&rsquo; &mdash; <a href="https://www.taipeifoodie.com/single-post/2018/11/01/One-Day-Getaway-Shiding-Thousand-Island-Lake-in-New-Taipei-City" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Taipei Foodie</a>
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Just a short drive from the capital, it&rsquo;s easy to see the best of the Pinglin region over a half-day trip. We&rsquo;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.
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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.
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Since no tea trip would be complete without a brew, you&rsquo;ll have the chance to sample Oolong and Wen Mountain Pouchong tea before we head to the Pinglin Tea Museum. Here, you&rsquo;ll fill up on the history and knowledge of tea, one of the greatest contributions of Chinese culture to the world!
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 &lsquo;&lsquo;Here you can enjoy delicious delicacies, as well as learn how to make tea.&rsquo;&rsquo; &mdash; <a href="https://livingnomads.com/2018/05/shiding-thousand-island-lake-taiwan/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Living Nomads</a>

Taiwan

Includes: Entrance fees, guide, tea tasting, transportation

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&rsquo;s one trip from the capital that will totally change your perspective