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 join our private tour, 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.
Taipei Tea Culture
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 & 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. You might also interested in our Yangmingshan Hiking Day Tour from Taipei.
Cherry Blossoms
While Maokong is best known for its tranquil tea plantations and the scenic Maokong Gondola, spring brings an entirely different kind of magic to the hills—cherry blossoms in full bloom. From late February to early April, this peaceful tea village just outside Taipei City Taiwan transforms into a soft, pink wonderland. The lush green tea fields become beautifully accented by clouds of cherry blossoms, offering an enchanting contrast that draws photographers, hikers, and romantics alike.
As you stroll along Maokong’s leafy paths or relax in a mountainside teahouse, you’ll be surrounded by petals gently falling like snow. The area features a mix of cherry blossom varieties, including the elegant Somei Yoshino (Yoshino cherry) and the vibrant Formosan cherry (Taiwan cherry), each blooming at slightly different times—meaning the season lasts longer here than in many other spots.
Pair your cherry blossom viewing with a fresh pot of locally grown oolong tea and soak in panoramic views of Taipei below. Whether you’re capturing the perfect photo or simply breathing in the spring air, Maokong during cherry blossom season is a truly unforgettable highlight of any Taiwan travel experience. If you would like a customized Maokong tea itineray, then contact us for your own private tour to Maokong!
Shenkeng Old Street
A map from Maokong to Shenkeng Old Street:
About 25 mins drive from Maokong to Shenkeng Old Street.
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.
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.
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Justaiwantour can also customize a private tour for you based on your preference. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a customized tour!