Taipei: Full-Day Pinglin and Elephant Mountain Tour

Taipei is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Taiwan, and this full-day Pinglin and Elephant Mountain Tour will take you on an adventure through some of the city’s most scenic spots. This tour will allow you to experience the rich culture and history of Taipei, taking you to a tea factory, Thousand Island Lake, Tofu Street, and Elephant Mountain Trail. By participating in this tour, you can learn the fine art of Taiwanese tea culture and enjoy the scenic beauty of Taiwan’s rural areas.

Experience

This tour offers a fantastic opportunity to soak in the stunning natural scenery of the Thousand Island Lake and stroll along the famous “Tofu Street.” You can also take a relaxing hike along the Elephant Hiking Trail and enjoy panoramic views of Taipei City from atop Elephant Mountain.

Highlights

There are several highlights of this tour that make it a must-do when you are visiting Taipei. Some of these highlights are:

• Visit a tea factory and learn about its cultivation
• Soak in the stunning scenery of the Thousand Island Lake
• Stroll along the famous “Tofu Street”
• Take a relaxing hike along the Elephant Hiking Trail and enjoy panoramic views of Taipei City
• Enjoy guaranteed departure with a minimum of 1 participant

Full Description

After meeting with your tour guide and driver in the morning, you will begin your scenic drive along the mountain road, taking in the beautiful scenery of Taiwan’s rural areas. You will soon reach Pinglin, a rural district famous for growing Wanshan Pouchong Tea.

Once you are there, your tour will start with a visit to the local tea factory, where you will learn about the cultivation and making of Taiwanese tea. The tea farmer will teach you how to properly brew Taiwanese tea and the tips of tea appreciation. You will get to enjoy a cup of fresh tea and appreciate the aroma and flavors of this world-famous tea.

Following that, you will take a short ride to the Shiding District to visit the famous Thousand Island Lake, which is a man-made lake that looks like a Chinese ink painting from a distance. The catchment area of the Feitsui Reservoir surrounded by hills creates this unique scenery. The lake gets its name from its numerous small islands dotted on the surface. You will have ample time to take pictures and experience the tranquil natural beauty of this place.

Next on the itinerary is Tofu Street, a famous food street selling various tofu-based dishes. You can take a stroll down the street and try different kinds of tofu dishes such as stinky tofu or mapo tofu, as well as enjoy other local delicacies.

Finally, your tour will end with a relaxing hike along the Elephant Hiking Trail. Prepare to be amazed by the panoramic views of Taipei city from atop Elephant Mountain. You will have a panoramic view of famous Taipei 101, Taipei City, and the surrounding lush green mountains. The hiking trail is a moderate level hike, which means it’s suitable for all ages and families.

Book the Tour

You can book the Taipei: Full-Day Pinglin and Elephant Mountain Tour online at GetYourGuide. This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide, transportation, all admission fees, and insurance. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore the beautiful countryside around Taipei and learn about Taiwanese tea culture!

Taipei: An Insider’s Guide to Making the Most of Your Trip

Taipei is a bustling and dynamic city that offers a fascinating mix of historical and modern attractions, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. With so much to see and do, planning your itinerary can feel overwhelming. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together this insider’s guide to Taipei, complete with local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions: Pinglin and Elephant Mountain Tour

A full-day Pinglin and Elephant Mountain tour is a perfect way to get a taste of the beauty and diversity that Taipei has to offer. Pinglin, located in the New Taipei City area, is a popular destination known for its tea production. Visitors can take a walk through the Pinglin tea museum and learn about the history and culture of tea in Taiwan. You can also take a short hike around the tea fields to see where the tea is grown and harvested. Don’t forget to purchase some tea to bring home as a souvenir!

After Pinglin, head over to Elephant Mountain for a breathtaking view of Taipei City. The hike up the mountain takes around 30 minutes and offers incredible views of the city skyline. It’s especially stunning at sunset when the sky is painted with shades of pink and orange. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water as the climb can be steep.

Dining Spots: Soupy King and Din Tai Fung

When it comes to food, Taipei has plenty of delicious options to choose from. Soupy King, located in the Xinyi area, is a hidden gem that’s popular with the locals. They’re known for their beef noodle soup, which is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold day. Be sure to try their homemade dumplings too!

Another must-visit restaurant in Taipei is Din Tai Fung. This Michelin-starred restaurant is famous for its xiao long bao, or soup dumplings. The dumplings are handmade to order and served with a side of black vinegar and ginger. They have multiple locations throughout Taipei, but be prepared to wait in line as it’s a popular spot among tourists and locals alike.

Cultural Experiences: National Palace Museum and Longshan Temple

To learn more about Taiwan’s rich history and culture, be sure to visit the National Palace Museum. Located in Shilin district, the museum houses an impressive collection of Chinese art, pottery, and historical artifacts. Some of the most notable pieces include the jade cabbage and meat-shaped stone, which are must-sees for any history buff.

Another cultural experience not to be missed is Longshan Temple. Founded in 1738, the temple is one of the oldest and most popular in Taipei. Visitors can witness local worshippers lighting incense, making offerings, and praying to the multitude of deities housed within the temple’s ornate halls. The intricate wood carvings, stone pillars, and colorful decorations make for an unforgettable experience.

Local History: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Jiufen Old Street

For a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s modern history, check out the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The grand monument was erected in memory of the former president of the Republic of China and has become a symbol of Taiwan’s struggle for democracy. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard ceremony and explore the impressive museum dedicated to Chiang’s life and legacy.

Jiufen Old Street is another must-visit destination in Taipei that’s steeped in history. The charming mountain town is perched high above the ocean and features a maze of narrow alleyways and traditional tea houses. The town was once a bustling gold mining center, and remnants of its Japanese colonial past can still be seen in the architecture and food.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Tamsui River and Beitou Hot Springs

If you have extra time in Taipei, consider venturing off the beaten path to explore some lesser-known destinations. Tamsui River, located on the outskirts of Taipei, is a beautiful spot for a scenic bike ride or leisurely walk. You’ll pass by mangrove forests, wetlands, and even a fisherman’s wharf where you can sample fresh seafood.

Beitou Hot Springs, located in the Beitou district, is another hidden gem that’s worth visiting. The area is known for its natural hot springs that are rich in minerals and believed to have healing properties. Visitors can soak in the hot springs at one of the many public or private bathhouses in the area.

In conclusion, Taipei is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the city, there’s no shortage of activities to choose from. We hope this insider’s guide has helped you plan an unforgettable trip to Taipei.