I had a slow start today, having a late and slow breakfast (or brunch) in a cafe (and sitting in the dry during a massive downpour) – in the early afternoon I joined a tour for some more insights around my favorite plant: camelia sinensis.

The tour covered the one hour trip up into the mountains South-East of Taipei – and to the Thousand-Islands-Lake, a reservoir that holds a good part of Taipei’s drinking water reserves.

We had two short walks to viewpoints – unfortunately during major rain – so, those were quick indeed. Views were good though – possibly better (as in more atmospheric) than on a normal sunny day. From the viewpoints we continued to the village of Pinglin for a proper tea tasting and a visit of the tea museum. Overall a great way to spend a day for a tea fan.

I had a leisurely Wednesday, leaving Daegu in the afternoon to make  my way over to Incheon Airport. After a night in an airport hotel, it was time for the quick jump over to Taipei on Thursday. I got here in the late afternoon – in time for a first nightmarket dinner and a bit of evening exploration around town.

I had been to Taiwan before – including Taipei – so, no pressure here to get all the sights in (as those were essentially already  done years back).