Representative High Mountain Tea Growing Regions
Alishan: Alishan, located near the Tropic of Cancer, boasts a climate ideal for tea tree cultivation. With elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 meters, it is the largest high mountain oolong tea-producing region in Taiwan. The tea leaves produced here are characterized by a pleasant aroma, rich flavor, and are renowned for their diverse varieties.
Sun Link Sea (Shanlinxi): Situated in the central part of Taiwan, with Long Feng Xia (Dragon Phoenix Gorge) being the most prominent peak in the tea-growing region, ranging from 1,100 to 1,800 meters in elevation. Known for its cedar and bamboo forests, teas from this area carry notes of bamboo and cedar fragrances.
Lishan: Located in the central highlands, with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,600 meters, Lishan is currently the highest tea-growing region in Taiwan. Due to its high altitude, snowfall is common in the autumn and winter, resulting in slow tea growth and thick tea leaves. The high mountain tea produced here has a sweet floral aroma.
Dayuling: Situated in the central highlands, Dayuling once had the world’s highest tea plantation at 2,700 meters but, due to environmental concerns, the government cut down the tea trees in 2015. Currently, the tea-growing region ranges from 2,100 to 2,400 meters, with only three remaining tea gardens and an annual output of just 2,000 kilograms.
Qilai Mountain: An emerging high mountain tea region with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,100 meters. Initially considered unsuitable for tea cultivation due to water scarcity and low temperatures, improvements in water sources and cultivation techniques have made high mountain tea from this region popular since 2015.
Cuifeng: Another emerging high mountain tea region with elevations between 1,400 and 2,100 meters. Previously known for producing peaches, apples, and persimmons, the orchards have been replaced by tea gardens due to the growing popularity of tea. Cuifeng high mountain tea is characterized by its aromatic and mellow qualities.
Cingjing Farm: With elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,100 meters, Cingjing Farm is a renowned farm and tourist attraction known for its beautiful high mountain scenery and rich natural environment. Besides tea, it produces persimmons, peaches, lilies, tulips, etc. The tea from this region features a sweet flavor attributed to the significant temperature difference.
