A common question tea lovers ask is: “What is the elevation of Lishan tea?” You often hear claims in the market that Lishan tea comes from 2,600 or 2,700 meters, but take those with a grain of salt. The highest Lishan tea gardens top out at just over 2,500 meters, and there are currently no managed tea gardens in Taiwan exceeding 2,600 meters in elevation.
Are there really Lishan tea gardens above 2,700 meters?
No. Centered around Lishan Street (1,960 meters), the elevation of the Lishan tea region ranges from 1,450 meters to 2,490 meters, with the highest tea gardens located at Fushoushan Farm. If parts of Nantou County are also included in the Lishan tea region, the highest point is the water source of HuaGung at 2,520 meters.
When sellers in the market claim their Lishan tea comes from a 2,700-meter tea garden, it is either a mistake or an exaggeration. There is no record of any artificially managed tea garden in Taiwan exceeding 2,700 meters in elevation.
So why is there a 2,700-meter claim?
Tea grown at high altitudes grows more slowly in cooler temperatures, allowing flavor compounds within the leaves to fully accumulate. Consequently, the notion that “higher is better” is frequently used for marketing. This is why Lishan tea in the market is so often labeled as coming from 2,200 or 2,700 meters—everyone is trying to grab attention and boost their selling points.
So the next time you hear about “Lishan tea at 2,700 meters,” take it with a grain of salt and don’t get fooled! Remember, while high altitude is a plus, quality ultimately depends on tea garden management and tea-making craftsmanship—elevation isn’t everything.