Thousand Island Lake & Pinglin Tea Tour from Taipei

Summary

Tea fields winding over misty hills and the quiet shimmer of Thousand Island Lake near Taipei

You’ll wander through Pinglin’s lush tea plantations with a local guide, sip freshly brewed Baozhong at a family-run shop, and gaze out over Thousand Island Lake’s scattered islets. Expect hands-on moments at the museum and gentle breezes among endless green rows—this day trip from Taipei feels both peaceful and personal.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the green hills tumbled down to Thousand Island Lake — all those tiny islands poking out, like someone scattered emerald buttons across blue silk. Our guide, Mr. Chen, laughed when I tried to say “Feitsui” properly (I still can’t), then pointed out how the morning mist clings to the water here. It’s quieter than I expected, just a few birds and the soft hum of our van cooling down after the drive from Taipei. The air smells faintly sweet, almost grassy, and you can see why tea grows so well in this part of Taiwan.

We wound up narrow roads to Bagua Tea Plantation — those rows really do look like ancient symbols from above, all neat and hypnotic. The sun started breaking through clouds just as we stepped out. I ran my hand along one of the tea bushes; the leaves were cool and waxy, not what I imagined somehow. Mr. Chen explained how Wenshan Baozhong tea is picked here, and I tried to picture families working these slopes for generations. There was a little breeze that kept fluttering my hat off — not ideal for photos but honestly it felt good after city heat.

Pinglin Tea Museum was next — old courtyard style building, red tiles underfoot, a bit echoey inside. We poked around displays of old wooden tools and delicate cups; some of it felt almost too fragile to touch. There’s even an AR thing where you can “see” how tea gets processed (I’m not great with tech but gave it a go). Then came my favorite part: sitting in a local tea shop while Mrs. Lin showed us how to brew Baozhong properly. She poured hot water in slow circles over twisted leaves, steam rising between us — smelled floral but earthy too. I probably slurped too loudly but she just smiled and poured another cup.

I still think about that view over Thousand Island Lake on the way back — light shifting on the water, Taipei somewhere out there behind the hills. If you’re into tea or just want a half-day outside Taipei with a real local guide (and yes, there’s hotel pickup), this day trip is kind of perfect in its own quiet way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit lake, tea plantation, and museum

• Visit Thousand Island Lake
• Stop at Bagua Tea Plantation
• Explore Pinglin Tea Museum
• Taste tea at local tea shop
• Optional drop off at Taipei 101

Top questions

How long does the Thousand Island Lake & Pinglin Tea tour take?

This is a half-day tour departing from Taipei.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you choose the private option.

Do you visit both Thousand Island Lake and Pinglin Tea Museum?

Yes, both locations are part of the itinerary along with Bagua Tea Plantation.

Will there be a chance to taste Taiwanese tea?

Yes, you’ll sample different teas at a local shop in Pinglin with guidance on brewing techniques.

Is lunch provided during this tour?

No lunch is included; bring cash for meals or snacks as many places don’t accept credit cards.

Are there any physical requirements for this tour?

A small amount of walking is involved; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with physical disabilities?

This tour is not recommended for travelers with physical disabilities due to some walking involved.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off if selected privately, guided transport by air-conditioned vehicle through New Taipei City’s scenic hillsides, entry to Pinglin Tea Museum with interactive exhibits, hands-on tea tasting at a family-run shop in Pinglin district—plus local general liability insurance throughout your journey before returning to central Taipei or optional drop-off at Taipei 101.