Daxi Tea Factory, Taoyuan, Taiwan

4Travellingcello 5:00 PM Mar 22, 2020

Historical Tea Machinery
The admission is $100NTD ($3USD) but is more like a coupon that can be applied to a later purchase from their store. The buildings sits on an unusually spacious plot that is well-manicured and orderly. It is an old building that has had some updates to its entry side. Once you get inside the doors the age of the building becomes apparent. Past the shop, through a door, is the museum of two rooms. The first holds old equipment used in the production of tea. It is a fantastic insight into the world that once was before computers ran the show. Secon room can be viewed through a half-door where they have people producing real tea for consumption on old rather old machinery. When I went there, a nice man came over to say hello--I had been standing there for some time in amazement--and explain in more detail about how the machinery does the work. He spoke remarkably good English and it was all voluntary, as I was unaware of any guided tour from the workers. :) There is a second level that is rather intriguing though somewhat dull. The imagination can help to bring it to life as it is no longer in use. Once back in the shop you are free to peruse and even taste several varieties of tea. The prices can range from $10-100+ for a bag. They have cheap, mass-produced and prize-winning very expensive. I highly recommend bying one the "Oriental Beauty" teas. The flavor is smooth, sweet, and without grassiness. Overall, interesting and quite charming.