Growing Oolong (wu-long) Tea in Taiwan

Taiwan produces the best oolong tea (also spelled wu-long tea or wulong tea) in the world. Its unique growing environment is due to both its geographical position and its mountainous terrain.

Taiwan oolong tea is grown in mountainous areas near the Tropic of Cancer. This combination of a subtropical climate and high elevations produces ideal conditions for growing oolong tea.

Oolong tea has been produced in Taiwan for more than a 150 years. It was an important export commodity up until the 1980s, when oolong tea production switched to supply a growing demand from the domestic market. Taiwan oolong tea is now grown almost exclusively for tea lovers in Taiwan.

Oolong is the most popular type of tea in Taiwan. The name "oolong" refers to the method of processing the leaves after they have been picked, but in fact, there are a great many varieties of tea plants, each producing an oolong tea with a unique flavor and texture.

Taiwan oolong is grown in many parts of the island. This satellite photo of Taiwan allows you to see the position some of the most important tea growing regions of Taiwan. Click on any name for more information about growing tea in Taiwan.