Things To Do
in Lugu

Terraced Dong Ding oolong fields with low morning mist—best photographed at golden hour for layered patterns and clouds hugging the slopes.

Giant trees, boardwalks and shaded trails create moody forest scenes; great for long exposures and close-ups of moss and fungi.

High-elevation forest with viewpoints, sunrise vistas and diverse flora—excellent for landscape and nature macro photography.

Small mountain temples, old stone walls and quiet lanes provide cultural and portrait photo opportunities with locals and traditional architecture.

The signature local tea—fragrant, slightly roasted oolong you can taste at plantations, teahouses and markets; buy leaves at tea shops in town.

Must-Try!

Local specialty in some mountain restaurants where tea leaves are used to smoke or flavor poultry; look for it at farm restaurants and specialty tea houses.

Seasonal wild or cultivated greens and fresh bamboo shoots are common; simple stir-fries or soups available at local eateries and markets.

Hard-boiled eggs steeped in tea-spice broth and desserts like tea-flavored jelly or ice cream sold at stalls and teahouses.

Small markets and roadside stalls sell fresh produce, steamed buns, tea eggs and local snacks—ideal for sampling inexpensive, homemade flavors and buying tea leaves directly from growers.

A short drive away, Puli and Jiji offer larger night markets with Taiwanese street food classics: stinky tofu, scallion pancakes, fried chicken and local desserts.

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; service charges may be included at some guesthouses or restaurants. Small tips are appreciated but not expected—rounding up or a small cash thank-you for exceptional service is fine.

Cash (NTD) is often necessary in rural Lugu—small shops and markets may not accept cards. Major teahouses and hotels usually accept credit cards; convenience stores accept cards and e-payment. Carry smaller bills and coins for buses, taxis and market purchases.

One of the best times to visit: cool, mild weather and spring tea harvests. Terraces are lush and tea gardens bustle with activity—expect frequent misty mornings and pleasant daytime temperatures.

Warm to hot and humid in valley areas but cooler than lowland cities; afternoon thunderstorms and the typhoon season (June–October) can bring heavy rain—good for green landscapes but plan around weather forecasts.

Crisper air, clearer skies and another important tea production season; excellent for hiking and photography with lower humidity and fewer storms than summer.

Chilly in the mornings and evenings, especially at higher elevations—frost is rare but mornings can be cold; tea farms are quieter and misty scenes are common.

Well-maintained trails through old-growth forests, boardwalks, and a giant tree area—suitable for families and photographers, with short and longer loop options.

Higher-elevation trails with cooler temperatures, scenic viewpoints, and abundant native flora—great for sunrise/sunset hikes and birdwatching.

Informal walking paths between tea farms and villages that provide close-up views of terraces, rural life and great vantage points for landscape photography.

Longer drives can reach alpine areas like Hehuanshan for high-mountain hiking, panoramic views and seasonal alpine flora—best done with transport and adequate preparation.

Baseball is a popular spectator and community sport across Taiwan; local schools and community teams often play in regional leagues.

Common pickup sport among youth and adults—courts in nearby towns are active in the evenings.

Cycling on scenic mountain roads and trails is popular with visitors and locals—expect steep climbs and rewarding descents between tea villages.

Due to surrounding forests and recreation areas, trail-based activities are widely enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Vegetarian options are common in Taiwan and Lugu’s vegetable-forward cuisine makes it fairly easy; look for Buddhist-style vegetarian menus and vegetable-focused restaurants. Carry a simple Mandarin phrase card stating dietary restrictions and ask for no fish sauce or lard if you avoid animal products.

Vegan and strict gluten-free choices are harder in rural areas—pack snacks or check with guesthouses ahead of time. Use allergy cards in Mandarin for serious allergies and be cautious with sauces, as soy sauce and oyster sauce are common.