Maokong (貓空), a picturesque area nestled in the hills of Taipei, Taiwan, is a beloved destination known for its serene tea plantations, stunning mountain views, and traditional teahouses. When you visit Maokong, you are transported to a world of tranquility and scenic wonder! From the rich tea heritage to the stunning cherry blossoms, Maokong provides a serene retreat for those seeking respite from the city and a glimpse into the heart of Taiwan’s cultural heritage.
The Tea Culture of Maokong
Indulge in the authentic tea-drinking experience at Maokong’s traditional teahouses. One of the defining features of Maokong is its rich tea culture. The area is famous for producing some of Taiwan’s finest oolong teas, and you can immerse yourself in the art of tea appreciation and preparation at traditional teahouses.
Most important of all, relax and enjoy freshly brewed tea! Explore the tea plantations, witness the tea-making process, and sample delectable local snacks that embody the essence of Maokong’s tea heritage.
Maokong Gondola
A Scenic Journey to the Hills! The journey to Maokong is an adventure in itself with the Maokong Gondola, a cable car system that takes passengers on a breathtaking ascent through lush greenery. Experience the thrill of riding in glass-bottomed cabins, offering panoramic views of Taipei City, the distant mountains, and the natural beauty of the hills.
Gondola has 4 stations along its route, each offering unique attractions and points of interest for you. Here are the gondola stations and the attractions you can find along the way:
1. Taipei Zoo Station (動物園站) –
It’s conveniently located near the Taipei Zoo, one of the most popular zoos in Asia. Before or after your gondola ride, you can explore the zoo and its extensive collection of animals, including pandas, koalas, and various indigenous and exotic species.
2. Taipei Zoo South Station (動物園南站) –
It’s the first stop after departing from the Taipei Zoo Station. This intermediate station provides a transfer point for passengers heading to the Taipei Zoo from other parts of Taipei.
3. Zhinan Temple Station (指南宮站) –
This station is named after the nearby Zhinan Temple, a significant religious site in the Maokong area. Zhinan Temple is a Taoist temple known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Taipei City. Besides, you can enjoy a serene atmosphere and learn about Taoist beliefs and practices.
4. Maokong Station (貓空站) –
It’s the gateway to Maokong’s tea plantations, teahouses, and hiking trails. Explore the picturesque tea plantations, where you can witness the tea cultivation process and learn about Taiwan’s rich tea culture. Additionally, many tea farms offer guided tours and tea tasting experiences.
You can also enjoy a relaxing tea session while taking in the tranquil ambiance and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Maokong is famous for its traditional teahouses that offer a variety of high-quality oolong teas.
Nature Trails and Hiking
It’s a great place for hiking enthusiasts, with several nature trails that lead through the tea plantations and provide stunning vistas of the Taipei cityscape and the surrounding mountains.
Maokong offers a network of nature trails and hiking paths, inviting you to explore the hills and the tea plantations on foot. Discover hidden gems, enjoy leisurely walks amidst the serene surroundings, and relish encounters with diverse bird species. On top of that, hiking in Maokong is an excellent way to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Cherry Blossoms
While Maokong is renowned for its tea plantations and scenic gondola ride, it also transforms into a breathtaking wonderland during the cherry blossom season. The cherry blossoms add a touch of pink beauty to the lush hills of Maokong, creating a magical atmosphere.
Spring transforms Maokong into a fairy-tale landscape with the blooming of cherry blossoms. You can witness the hills adorned in shades of pink as cherry blossom season paints a picturesque scene. Furthermore, there are various cherry blossom varieties that bloom in Maokong, including some of the famous ones like Yoshino cherry (Somei Yoshino) and Taiwan cherry (Formosan cherry).
Whether it’s sipping tea in a teahouse, hiking amidst tea plantations, or witnessing the beauty of cherry blossoms in bloom, Maokong promises an unforgettable experience that lingers in your heart long after you return to the bustling metropolis of Taipei.
And that’s the tea, come with us to visit Maokong by joining our Aroma of Tea: Maokong Private Day Tour!
After our Taipei day tour of Maokong, we will go to Shenkeng Old Street.
A map from Maokong to Shenkeng Old Street:
About 25 mins drive from Maokong to Shenkeng Old Street.
Shenkeng Old Street (深坑老街)
Shenkeng is known as the “Tofu Capital” of Taiwan, and the Old Street is home to numerous tofu vendors and restaurants. It’s renowned for its delectable tofu dishes and snacks, traditional architecture, and vibrant local atmosphere. Moreover, you can enjoy a wide variety of tofu-based dishes, such as stinky tofu (a fermented tofu delicacy), tofu pudding, tofu ice cream, tofu noodles, and more! The diverse selection of tofu delicacies caters to different taste preferences. (Read Discover Tofu and Its Variation at Shiding Old Street Around Taipei for more information about tofu!)
As one of the oldest streets in Taiwan, Shenkeng Old Street features well-preserved historical buildings and traditional architecture. Additionally, the wooden facades and red-brick buildings evoke a sense of nostalgia and offer you a glimpse into the past. You can find unique handicraft gifts and mementos to take back home as reminders of your visit to Shenkeng.
Overall, Shenkeng Old Street’s reputation as the “Tofu Street” and its historical charm make it a must-visit destination in Taiwan. From savoring the various tofu delicacies to exploring the old-fashioned architecture, a visit to Shenkeng Old Street promises a delightful journey through the heart of Taiwanese heritage and culinary delights. For more information, read 20 Best Taipei Day Tours You Should Know.
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