Maokong Tea Plantations Taipei
Escape to Maokong, Taipei's serene tea haven. Ride the gondola, wander lush plantations, and savor unique tea flavors with breathtaking city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Maokong Tea Plantations Taipei
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to Maokong, Taipei's serene tea haven. Ride the gondola, wander lush plantations, and savor unique tea flavors with breathtaking city views.
"The tea ice cream was incredible! A must try, a Taiwanese staple even."
🎯 Gondola Crystal Cabin
Book crystal cabin tickets in advance to skip lines and enjoy floor-to-ceiling views! :ticket:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get hot, especially when exploring the tea fields. Bring plenty of water! :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Maokong Gondola Ride
Taipei Zoo Station to Maokong Station
Soar above lush greenery and Taipei's skyline for breathtaking panoramic views. A truly elevated experience!
Tea Plantations & Teahouses
Various locations throughout Maokong
Wander through serene tea fields and relax in traditional teahouses, savoring local oolong and unique tea-infused treats.
Tea-Flavored Ice Cream
Various teahouses and stalls
Indulge in creamy, flavorful ice cream infused with local tea, a delightful and refreshing treat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gondola Ride is Key
Tea Tasting & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Gondola Crystal Cabin
Book crystal cabin tickets in advance to skip lines and enjoy floor-to-ceiling views! :ticket:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get hot, especially when exploring the tea fields. Bring plenty of water! :droplet:
🍵 Tea Ice Cream Must-Try
Don't miss the unique tea-flavored ice cream; it's a creamy, delicious local specialty! :icecream:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Path
Venture off the main paths to discover quieter teahouses and stunning viewpoints. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Gondola Crystal Cabin
Book crystal cabin tickets in advance to skip lines and enjoy floor-to-ceiling views! :ticket:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get hot, especially when exploring the tea fields. Bring plenty of water! :droplet:
🍵 Tea Ice Cream Must-Try
Don't miss the unique tea-flavored ice cream; it's a creamy, delicious local specialty! :icecream:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Path
Venture off the main paths to discover quieter teahouses and stunning viewpoints. :hiking_boot:
📸 Capture the Views
The gondola ride and tea plantations offer incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique tea-flavored ice cream and the stunning views from the Maokong Gondola. The friendly owners and the tranquil atmosphere of the teahouses are frequently praised, making it a delightful escape. Some note that tea prices can be a bit high, but the overall experience is highly recommended.
"Maokong Tea House was a pleasant surprise, and we stumbled upon it thanks to the familiar sounds of Tagalog music playing in the background! It was a nice touch that made us feel at home. But what really won us over was their unique Tea ice cream.
The ice cream was incredibly creamy, and yet, you could still taste the distinct flavor of the tea. It was a perfect balance of flavors, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. The presentation was also lovely, making it a great spot for photos.
What made our experience even more special was the owner, who took the time to share a brief story about the shop. It added a personal touch and gave us a deeper appreciation for the place.
Overall, Maokong Tea House is a must-visit for tea lovers and those looking for a unique dessert experience. The combination of delicious tea ice cream, cozy atmosphere, and personal touch makes it a standout destination in Maokong."
Aimee C
"📍Place: if you are coming to the Maokong mountain, you should definitely try the tea flavoured ice cream. This is one of the many places which offers it, and it's quite big with many seats inside.
🍛 Food: I have chosen this, because you can have the ice cream with bubbles and a very cute cat biscuit. You can have black tea or matcha flavour, it's creamy and really tasted like tea, I love it. I also tried the cold brew black tea which I really enjoyed on a hot day while walking across the tea fields.
👩🏻🍳 Service: they are nice, speak English well, you can prepare for some queueing but it's nothing unbearable."
Viktor Lakatos
"Maokong Tea House is a cozy spot offering unique tea and ice cream with a signature touch. The ice cream is rich and full of real tea flavor, while the tea drinks are freshly brewed and come in a great variety. The owner and staff are friendly and welcoming. It’s a perfect place to relax during your Maokong trip or after a hike. Peaceful atmosphere with beautiful mountain views — truly a delightful experience!"
surat mukda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Maokong is by taking the Maokong Gondola from the Taipei Zoo MRT station. You can also take a bus or taxi. The gondola ride itself offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Absolutely! The gondola ride provides breathtaking panoramic views and is a scenic way to ascend to the tea plantations. You can choose between standard cabins or glass-bottomed 'crystal' cabins for an even more thrilling experience. 
Many visitors opt to take the bus back down from Maokong, which can be quicker than the gondola and offers a different perspective. You can also take the gondola back to Taipei Zoo MRT station.
Yes, taxis are available in Maokong, but they might be less frequent than in the city center. It's advisable to have your hotel or a local contact help arrange one if needed, especially for late-night departures.
Driving to Maokong is possible, but parking can be limited and challenging, especially during peak seasons. The gondola is generally the preferred and more convenient mode of transport for tourists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost of the Maokong Gondola varies depending on the distance and type of cabin. A one-way trip typically costs around 180 Taiwanese dollars for a standard cabin. Check the official Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation website for the most up-to-date pricing.
While you can purchase tickets at the station, booking in advance, especially for crystal cabins or during peak times, is highly recommended to avoid long queues.
The tea plantations themselves are generally free to wander through. However, individual teahouses may have their own policies, and you'll be expected to purchase tea or food if you stay to relax.
The Maokong Gondola typically operates from around 9 AM to 9 PM or 10 PM, with variations on weekends and holidays. It's best to check the official MRT website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Yes, there is a small tea museum or 'promotion center' in Maokong that offers insights into tea culture and history. It's a quick visit but can be worthwhile for tea enthusiasts.
🍽️ ☕ Tea & Dining
Maokong is particularly known for its Baozhong (Pouchong) tea and Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess of Mercy) oolong tea. You can find many teahouses offering these and other varieties.
Some Reddit users suggest that tea in Maokong can be a bit overpriced and touristy. While the tea is good, it might be best to enjoy the experience and unique tea-flavored treats rather than buying bulk tea leaves.
Beyond traditional tea, don't miss the tea-flavored ice cream, which is a popular and delicious treat. Many teahouses also offer light snacks and meals that complement the tea experience.
Yes, some teahouses, like Shan Shui Ke (山水客), offer good food options in addition to tea. It's worth exploring to find a place that suits your culinary preferences.
Yaoyue Teahouse (邀月茶坊) is a popular recommendation for its beautiful setting and proximity to the gondola stop. Six Seasons Teahouse is also praised for its tea and location near tea plantings.
📸 📸 Photography
The Maokong Gondola ride offers stunning aerial views. The tea plantations themselves provide picturesque landscapes, especially during sunrise or sunset. Many teahouses also have charming aesthetics perfect for photos.
Yes, both sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for photos in Maokong. The panoramic views from the gondola and higher points in the tea plantations are particularly striking during these times.
Generally, yes, you can take photos inside teahouses, especially of your tea and the ambiance. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other patrons and ask for permission if you plan to take extensive shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views from the gondola and plantations. A standard zoom lens is versatile for teahouse interiors and details. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also sufficient for most visitors.
While specific 'secret' spots are rare, exploring the trails between tea fields and finding elevated viewpoints away from the main teahouse clusters often yields the most unique and less crowded photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider opting for the standard cabins if your children are apprehensive about heights or glass floors. Once at the top, the tea plantations offer space for kids to explore (under supervision), and many teahouses are welcoming to families. The tea-flavored ice cream is a guaranteed hit with younger visitors! 💰 Budget Travelers
🌿 Nature & Scenery Lovers
The Maokong Gondola ride provides unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Taipei skyline, especially during sunrise or sunset. Take your time to wander through the plantations, breathe in the fresh air, and find a quiet spot to simply soak in the serene atmosphere. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Maokong Gondola Experience
Visitors can choose between standard cabins or the popular crystal cabins, which feature glass floors, providing an exhilarating perspective of the landscape beneath your feet. The ride typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the stop. It's advisable to check operating hours and consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to minimize wait times. Many travelers recommend taking the gondola up and then opting for a bus or taxi ride back down to experience different routes and save time.
Tips for the Gondola Ride
* Crystal Cabins: For a unique thrill, opt for the glass-bottomed cabins. They offer an unparalleled view of the terrain below.
* Queue Management: Be prepared for queues, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday can significantly reduce wait times.
* Weather Considerations: The views can be spectacular in various weather conditions. Fog can add a mystical ambiance, while clear days offer expansive vistas.
Savoring Tea Culture in Maokong
While the tea itself is a highlight, some travelers note that prices in Maokong can be on the touristy side.
Recommended Teahouses and Experiences
* Yaoyue Teahouse (邀月茶坊): Known for its beautiful setting and proximity to the gondola station, it's a popular choice for enjoying tea with a view.
* Six Seasons Teahouse: Praised for its excellent tea and location near tea plantings, offering an authentic experience.
* Tea Ice Cream: A must-try dessert that captures the essence of Maokong's tea culture.
Exploring the Tea Plantations
Wandering through the winding paths between the tea rows provides a sense of tranquility and a deeper connection to the agricultural heart of the region. The air is often filled with the fresh, earthy scent of tea leaves, creating a truly immersive sensory experience. While the main tourist areas can get busy, venturing slightly off the beaten path can lead to more secluded spots with stunning vistas and fewer crowds.
The visual appeal of the neatly arranged tea rows against the backdrop of rolling hills and the distant city skyline makes for unforgettable scenery. Tips for Plantation Exploration
* Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a fair amount of walking on uneven terrain.
* Respect the Crops: Avoid stepping on or damaging the tea plants.
* Capture the Scenery: The plantations offer endless photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
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