Taipei: Daxi Old Street and Tea Factory, Xiaowulai Day Tour

If you’re after a day trip that blends scenic views, cultural insights, and a touch of Taiwan’s traditional charm, this Taipei-based tour offers a lot for a reasonable price. While it’s not perfect — the schedule is tight, and walking is involved — the chance to see some of Taiwan’s best landscapes and historic streets makes it well worth considering.

What we love most about this experience? First, the stunning vistas from the Xiaowulai Skywalk, which give you a literal edge-of-the-cliff perspective of the lush valleys below. Second, the authentic feel of Daxi Old Street, where you can sample local tea and enjoy Taiwan’s traditional street food scene. The main drawback? The tour’s busy itinerary means a lot of walking and a tight schedule, so it’s best suited for active travelers. Overall, if you’re looking for a well-rounded day out with plenty of natural beauty and cultural flavor, this tour hits many of those marks.

Key Points

• Scenic views from the Xiaowulai Skywalk offer a thrilling perspective of Taiwan’s mountains and forests.
• Cultural immersion at Daxi Old Street provides a taste of local life and traditional tea.
• Comfortable transportation makes the trip hassle-free, with round-trip transfers from Taipei.
• The professional bilingual guide enriches the experience with stories and local insights.
• It’s a full-day experience—about 10 hours—so good stamina is recommended.
• The tour includes entrance tickets and optional hotel pickup, adding convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Tour Experience

We’ll start with the overall flow of the day, then break down each stop, what you can expect, and who it’s best for. This way, you’ll get a balanced picture of what this trip offers—and what to consider before booking.

Transportation and Timing

The tour begins with pickup at Xingtian Temple MRT Station, a central point that makes it easy to connect from various parts of Taipei. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day more bearable, especially if the weather turns warm or humid.

With a duration of about 10 hours, the schedule is packed but manageable, if you’re used to walking and exploring. It’s worth noting that the itinerary is subject to change depending on traffic and weather — common hurdles in Taiwan — but your guide will adapt accordingly. For instance, on Tuesdays, the Xiaowulai Skywalk is closed, and the guide will take you instead to nearby Luofu Hot Spring Visitor Center.

Xiaowulai Skywalk

The first big highlight is the Xiaowulai Skywalk. This glass-bottomed walkway extends out over the mountain edge, offering vertigo-inducing views of the valley below. We loved the way it combines thrill and serenity; you get a sweeping perspective of the lush landscape and the forest canopy.

The guided visit lasts around 2 hours, giving enough time to walk the skywalk, snap photos, and enjoy the surrounding scenery. You might find, as some visitors have, that the views are breathtaking enough to make you forget about your fears of heights — just remember to wear comfortable shoes as there’s some walking involved.

Note: The Skywalk is closed on Tuesdays, but the tour adjusts to include other scenic spots like Luofu Hot Spring. This flexibility is useful for planning your visit.

Jiaoban Mt. Park

Next, you’ll go to Jiaoban Mt. Park, a favorite for local hikers and nature lovers. Here, you can stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and take in the natural beauty that Taiwan is known for. The guided tour focuses on the park’s lush landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, making it a nice contrast to the more adrenaline-pumping Skywalk.

Expect about 2 hours here, giving you time to walk some of the trails or simply relax amidst greenery. We appreciated the quietness and the chance to connect with nature, even if just for a short while.

More Great Tours Nearby

Daxi Tea Factory

No visit to Taiwan is complete without a stop at a tea factory, and here, the Daxi Tea Factory provides a peek into Taiwan’s revered tea culture. The guide will walk you through the tea-making process, explaining everything from leaf selection to brewing techniques.

Best of all, you get to taste some of the local brews, which adds a delicious sensory element to the visit. The factory visit lasts about 2 hours, and it’s an excellent opportunity to learn about Taiwan’s tea heritage while savoring some authentic flavors.

Daxi Old Street

Finally, the charming Daxi Old Street is a lively area filled with traditional shops, snack stalls, and local restaurants. This is where you can soak up the atmosphere, browse handmade crafts, or sample street foods like soya milk, rice cakes, and other local specialties. It’s a relaxed 2-hour visit that offers some leisure time to wander independently or join your guide for a quick overview.

Many travelers, including one who called the guide “George,” appreciated the authentic stories and history shared during the walk. The street’s blend of old architecture and modern shops creates a perfect snapshot of Taiwan’s cultural continuity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip suits active travelers who enjoy a mix of scenery and cultural experiences. It’s ideal for those comfortable with walking and standing for extended periods, given the amount of exploration involved.

If you’re fascinated by panoramic views and want an authentic taste of Taiwan’s traditional streets and tea culture, this tour delivers. It’s particularly good for those who prefer guided trips that handle logistics and provide local insights, making it easier to focus on enjoying the day.

However, do keep in mind that this is a full-day adventure, and some stops involve a fair amount of walking. Pregnant women, people with heart problems, or those with mobility issues might find the schedule demanding. The tour is also not suitable for children under 95 years old or individuals with certain health concerns.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the listed highlights, what really makes this experience worthwhile is the combination of natural beauty and cultural depth. The views from the Xiaowulai Skywalk are genuinely memorable, providing perfect photo opportunities and a sense of awe. The quiet serenity of Jiaoban Mt. Park adds balance, showing that Taiwan’s landscapes are as inviting as its cities.

The local tea experience at the factory is more than a tasting; it’s an educational peek into a cherished tradition. And Daxi Old Street offers an authentic, less touristy alternative to Taiwan’s more crowded markets.

The value for the $144 price tag is solid, considering the included entrance tickets, transportation, and guided insights. It’s a convenient way to see diverse highlights without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides an excellent mix of Taiwan’s scenic wonders and cultural treasures, making it a fantastic choice for curious visitors eager to experience Taiwan beyond Taipei’s city limits. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy active, engaging outings and want a guided experience that takes care of the logistics.

While the schedule is tight and involves some walking, the multiple highlights—from stunning mountain views to historic streets—offer a well-rounded day. Plus, the inclusion of a professional guide ensures you’ll learn interesting facts and get local stories that bring each stop alive.

If your aim is to get a taste of Taiwan’s natural beauty, traditional culture, and authentic street life in one day, this tour offers genuine value. Just be prepared for a full day, and wear comfortable shoes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts roughly 10 hours, starting from the morning and returning in the evening. Exact times depend on availability and traffic conditions.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfer by air-conditioned vehicle is included, with hotel pickup available if you select the private option.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must since there’s significant walking, and cash is recommended for personal expenses or purchases at Daxi Old Street.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to buy food during the free time at Daxi Old Street.

Can I join if I don’t speak Mandarin?
Yes, the guide speaks both Mandarin and English, making the experience accessible for non-Mandarin speakers.

Is the skywalk suitable for all?
The skywalk involves walking on glass and heights, so those afraid of heights or with mobility issues might want to consider this before joining.

What if it rains?
Raincoats and umbrellas are provided, and the tour can adapt by visiting alternative spots if the skywalk is closed or weather conditions are poor.

Are there any health restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, high blood pressure, or mobility challenges. It’s a physically active day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This Taipei day trip balances adventure, culture, and relaxation. For anyone wanting a snapshot of Taiwan’s scenic and cultural riches, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: