Sip & Savor: 🚠 Maokong Tea & Shenkeng Tofu Private Day Tour

Enjoy Taiwanese tea culture and street food on this private day tour. You’ll explore Maokong Mountain, learning about tea-making and sipping premium oolong teas. Then, take in panoramic city views from the gondola before delving into the vibrant Shenkeng Old Street, renowned for its pungent stinky tofu. Sample local delicacies and learn about their culinary heritage as you wander the lively alleyways. With a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain unique insights into Taiwanese traditions and uncover hidden gems. If you’re ready to sip, savor, and discover, this tour promises an unforgettable cultural experience.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Tours In New Taipei City.

Key Points

• Explore the tea-making traditions of Maokong Mountain with guided tastings and panoramic gondola views overlooking Taipei’s picturesque landscape.
• Discover the vibrant Shenkeng Old Street, renowned for its iconic stinky tofu and other local delicacies.
• Enjoy a personalized tour with knowledgeable guides who provide insights into Taiwanese culture and cuisine.
• The 8-hour private tour includes pickup in Taipei City and features a flexible itinerary to cater to individual interests.
• Tour is priced from $174 per person and offers a 5/5 rating with free cancellation up to 24 hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Sip & Savor: Maokong Tea & Shenkeng Tofu Private Day Tour" offers a captivating excursion through Taiwan’s vibrant tea culture and street food scene.

Priced from $174 per person, this 8-hour private tour promises an immersive experience, with pickup included from any location in Taipei City. Guests can explore the serene Maokong Mountain, enjoy tea tastings, and ride the Maokong Gondola for stunning views.

The tour then ventures to Shenkeng’s famous "stinky tofu" street, where travelers can savor local delicacies and browse the charming shops.

With Chinese and English-speaking guides, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a 5/5 rating, this tour promises an unforgettable day of cultural discovery.

Itinerary Highlights

This tour offers a captivating itinerary, beginning with a visit to the serene Maokong Mountain.

Guests can enjoy a guided tour, savor premium Taiwanese teas, and indulge in a delightful lunch while taking in the panoramic views from the Maokong Gondola.

Then, it’s off to explore the vibrant Shenkeng Old Street, famous for its mouthwatering stinky tofu and other local street food delicacies.

Visitors can wander the lively alleyways, peruse the unique shops, and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this charming district.

Maokong Mountain Experience

After arriving at Maokong Mountain, visitors are treated to a guided tour that introduces them to the art of tea-making.

They’ll learn about the various tea cultivars and the intricate process of harvesting, withering, rolling, and drying the leaves.

The tour culminates in a tea tasting session where visitors can sample the region’s finest oolong teas and learn to appreciate their subtle flavors and aromas.

Guests can then take in the stunning panoramic views of Taipei City from the Maokong Gondola.

With ample time for photo ops and leisurely wandering, this portion of the tour offers a chance to take in Taiwan’s rich tea culture.

Tea Tasting and Panoramic Views

Oftentimes, the tea tasting session commences with an expert guide introducing the various oolong tea cultivars native to the Maokong region. Guests will have the opportunity to smell, sip, and savor the distinct aromas and flavors of each tea varietal.

The tour also includes a visit to a local tea plantation, where travelers can witness the traditional tea-making process and learn about the history and culture surrounding this time-honored tradition.

Afterward, visitors can take in the stunning panoramic views of Taipei’s lush, mountainous landscape from the Maokong Gondola. This exhilarating aerial ride offers a bird’s-eye perspective of the picturesque tea fields and surrounding natural beauty.

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Shenkeng Old Street Exploration

Leaving the serene hills of Maokong behind, the tour now explores Shenkeng’s vibrant old street. Known for its famous stinky tofu, this lively neighborhood offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich street food culture.

Visitors can wander through the bustling alleyways, sampling a variety of local delicacies and snacks. From steaming hot tofu dishes to freshly made pastries, the tour provides an opportunity to take in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant community.

Guides share insights into the history and traditions behind the iconic Shenkeng stinky tofu, allowing guests to truly appreciate the unique culinary heritage of this charming old street.

Street Food and Local Snacks

Wandering through the bustling alleyways of Shenkeng Old Street, visitors are immediately greeted by the tantalizing aromas of local delicacies and snacks.

This vibrant street food hub is renowned for its iconic "stinky tofu", a pungent fermented dish that tantalizes the senses.

Beyond the iconic tofu, the street also offers a variety of other delectable options:

• Fragrant steamed buns filled with savory pork or sweet red bean paste
• Crispy deep-fried chicken wings, dusted with a tantalizing blend of spices
• Freshly grilled squid skewers, perfectly charred and seasoned to perfection

Indulging in these local specialties allows visitors to truly enjoy Shenkeng’s vibrant street food culture.

Personalized Tour and Guidance

With a personalized tour led by knowledgeable guides, visitors can delve deeper into the cultural nuances and local insights of Maokong and Shenkeng.

The guides offer valuable information about tea-making traditions, the history behind stinky tofu, and the unique quirks of each neighborhood. Guests can ask questions, interact with locals, and gain a more authentic understanding of Taiwanese culture.

The tour’s flexibility allows for a customized experience, catering to individual interests and preferences. Whether it’s exploring hidden tea houses or discovering the best street food spots, the guides ensure a seamless and enriching day for each traveler.

Important Information and Policies

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes and cash for this tour.

It’s important to note that the Maokong Gondola ride isn’t suitable for those afraid of heights. Plus, there are some restrictions to be aware of – no oversized luggage or drones are allowed.

To ensure a smooth experience, guests will need to provide their hotel or desired pickup location in Taipei City.

The tour includes:

1. Travel insurance
2. One-way Maokong Gondola ticket
3. Air-conditioned private vehicle transportation

However, food, drinks, gratuities, and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Changes to the Itinerary During the Tour?

The tour allows for some flexibility. Guests can typically make minor changes to the itinerary during the tour if they discuss it with the guide beforehand. However, significant changes may not be possible.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for this tour, but it’s best to wear comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes. Layers are recommended as the weather can be cooler on the mountain.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tea Tasting Session?

Yes, you can take photographs during the tea tasting session. The tour allows participants to capture the process and experience of sampling the local teas in Maokong. Just be mindful not to disrupt the tasting.

Is the Tour Guide Flexible With the Pace of the Tour?

The tour guide is generally flexible with the pace of the tour, allowing visitors to explore at their own comfortable speed. They aim to accommodate individual preferences and provide a personalized experience throughout the day.

Can I Purchase Additional Items During the Shopping Stops?

Yes, you can purchase additional items during the shopping stops. The tour includes free time for guests to explore local shops and markets, allowing them to pick up souvenirs or other items to their liking.

Sum Up

Set out on a captivating cultural journey through Taiwan’s tea and food traditions. Sip the finest teas, savor the renowned stinky tofu, and learn about the vibrant street food scene. With personalized guidance, you’ll uncover the rich tapestry of Taiwanese heritage, leaving you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the country’s captivating essence.

You can check availability for your dates here: