The World of Taiwanese Tea: Types, Regions, and All the Basics Explained Simply

Taiwanese tea traces its roots back to Chinese tea, which was introduced around the 1800s. Since then, Taiwan has developed its own unique tea-growing and processing culture. Today, teas like Dong Ding Oolong and Oriental Beauty are enjoyed and loved around the world.

In this post, we’ll walk you through some basic knowledge of Taiwanese tea, including popular types and famous tea-growing regions — all explained simply and clearly♪

■Oriental Beauty Tea

When it comes to Taiwanese tea, Oriental Beauty (Dongfang Meiren) is often the first to come to mind.

You may have even tasted it without realizing it was Taiwanese! This oolong tea is more heavily oxidized, giving it a rich aroma similar to black tea and a mellow, slightly sweet flavor. One sip fills your mouth with an elegant fragrance and leaves a floral aftertaste that lingers gently.

The name “Oriental Beauty” has a charming origin. It's said that a British queen once described its aroma and flavor as being “as beautiful as a lady from the East,” which led to its romantic name.

Whether you enjoy it iced on a hot day or warm on a chilly evening, Oriental Beauty Tea fits any occasion and is truly one of Taiwan’s tea treasures.

■Dong Ding Oolong Tea

Another must-mention when talking about Taiwanese tea is Dong Ding Oolong, one of the most iconic and beloved varieties.

Grown on Dong Ding Mountain in Nantou County, central Taiwan, this tea is a lightly oxidized oolong, known for its smooth, well-balanced flavor. It offers a clean taste with subtle sweetness and a hint of roasted aroma, making it easy to drink and hard to get tired of.

One of its highlights is how well the flavor and fragrance hold up through multiple infusions — perfect for slow, mindful tea sessions.Dong Ding Oolong is a staple in traditional Taiwanese tea houses and remains a favorite among locals for everyday enjoyment.

■High Mountain Tea (Gao Shan Cha)

No discussion of Taiwanese tea would be complete without mentioning High Mountain Tea. As the name suggests, this oolong tea is made from tea leaves grown at elevations above 1,000 meters. The cool climate and morning and evening mists create delicate floral aromas and a crisp, refreshing taste. Famous growing regions include Alishan, Lishan, and Shanlinxi, each offering uniquely distinct flavors. High Mountain Tea is lightly oxidized, resulting in a bright and elegant brew.

When you sip it, you’ll notice a soft, orchid-like fragrance that gently fills your mouth. The taste is clean and pure, with an impressively smooth finish that leaves no bitterness behind.

Where Can You See Tea Plantations in Taiwan?

If you're interested in exploring Taiwan's beautiful tea-growing regions, here are three must-visit areas known for their scenic tea plantations and high-quality teas:

1. Alishan (Alishan Tea)｜Chiayi County

Famous for its high elevation and sea of clouds, Alishan offers stunning, dreamlike views of tea plantations floating above the mist. It’s one of the best-known regions for High Mountain Tea, and is also popular for its scenic railway and sunrise spots. Visitors can enjoy tea tasting and guided farm tours, making it a great destination for tea lovers.

2. Shanlinxi (Shanlinxi High Mountain Tea)｜Nantou County

A lesser-known but peaceful tea region nestled deep in the mountains. The tea farms here line quiet mountain valleys, offering clean air and a truly relaxing atmosphere. It’s a hidden gem for those who prefer fewer crowds and a more tranquil experience.

3. Lishan (Lishan Tea)｜Outskirts of Taichung City

Home to some of Taiwan’s highest-altitude tea farms, Lishan is famous for its strong day-night temperature difference, which produces fragrant, premium-quality tea. The views are breathtaking — truly like tea gardens in the sky.

Taiwanese Tea Basics: Levels of Oxidation

Taiwanese teas are typically classified by how much the leaves are oxidized. Oxidation affects both the flavor and aroma of the tea:

Light Oxidation (10–20%)

Examples: High Mountain Tea, Wenshan Baozhong Tea Flavor

profile: Light, refreshing, and floral — similar to green tea.

Medium Oxidation (30–50%)

Example: Dong Ding Oolong TeaFlavor

profile: Smooth, balanced, with a hint of roasted or nutty aroma.

Heavy Oxidation (60% and above)

Example: Oriental Beauty Tea Flavor

profile: Rich and sweet, with a deep aroma — almost like black tea.

In Taiwan, tea is not only enjoyed after meals — it’s such an integral part of daily life that many people drink it just like water.

Traditional tea preparation, known as "Cha Yi" (tea art), is also deeply rooted in Taiwanese culture. This includes the graceful rituals of brewing and serving tea. You can even experience it firsthand at tea houses (茶藝館, Cha Yi Guan) or through tea ceremony workshops, where visitors are invited to learn and enjoy the beauty of this refined tradition.

How was it?

Taiwanese tea is renowned worldwide for its high quality and exceptional taste. If you’re visiting Taiwan, don’t miss the chance to experience authentic Taiwanese tea right at the source.

Tea plantations are often located in scenic, high-altitude areas surrounded by nature, which can be difficult to access. That’s why we recommend using our private charter service! We provide hotel pick-up and can customize a tour to take you to the tea farms or tea houses you’re most interested in.

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