A Family Adventure in Taoyuan: Tea, Trains, and Timeless Memories
Meta Description: Join the Carter family on their unforgettable 3-day Taoyuan itinerary. Discover the best things to do in Taoyuan with kids, from tea picking and old street explorations to relaxing hot springs. Get inspired for your own Taiwan family travel adventure!
Our family travel motto has always been, “Seek the story, not just the sight.” So, when planning our trip to Taiwan, we looked beyond the bright lights of Taipei and set our sights on Taoyuan. Promising a blend of nature, culture, and fun for our two kids, it turned out to be the perfect destination for an unforgettable family adventure.
Day 1: Arrival and a Step Back in Time
We landed at the ultra-modern Taoyuan International Airport, a smooth and efficient welcome to Taiwan. After picking up our rental car—a lifesaver for a family—we drove straight to our first stop: Daxi Old Street.
The moment we stepped onto the historic baroque-style street, the kids’ eyes widened. The air was filled with the enticing aroma of freshly made dried tofu and peanut candy.
“This is like a food treasure hunt!” exclaimed our son, Leo, pointing at the various stalls.
We indulged in local delicacies, admired the unique architecture, and let the kids pick out small handmade souvenirs. It was a vibrant, sensory introduction to the local culture. For us, it was a perfect, low-key first activity that eased us into our Taoyuan travel experience.
Day 2: Tea, Trains, and Tranquility in the Mountains
Day two was dedicated to the lush, green highlands. Our drive up to the Shimen Reservoir was breathtaking, with emerald waters set against a backdrop of misty mountains. But the real highlight for our family trip was our visit to a tea plantation.
We had booked a tea-picking experience near Lalashan. Our daughter, Mia, carefully placed a tea-picking basket on her head, just like the local farmers.
“Look, Mom! I’m a tea expert!” she beamed.
For two hours, we learned about tea cultivation, picked our own leaves, and even participated in a tea-tasting session. It was a hands-on, educational activity that was both fun and immersive—highly recommended for anyone looking for unique things to do in Taoyuan with kids.
In the afternoon, we headed to the Xiaowulai Scenic Area. The sight of the powerful waterfall was impressive, but the real thrill was the Sky Walk—a transparent glass walkway extending from the cliff face. Leo, our brave adventurer, loved it, while Mia held our hands tightly, her awe mixed with a little fear. The panoramic views of the valley were absolutely worth it.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion and a Relaxing Farewell
For our final day, we explored the cultural side of Taoyuan. We visited the serene Cihu Mausoleum, where the kids were fascinated by the rows of stone statues. The vast, park-like grounds were perfect for a peaceful morning stroll.
Our last stop was the Gloria Outlets. While it might seem like an unusual choice, it was a fantastic break for the parents and a treat for the kids. The open-air, Italian-style village has a beautiful Ferris wheel and plenty of space to run around. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch and did some last-minute shopping, making it a relaxing conclusion to our action-packed itinerary.
As we drove back to the airport, the kids were already scrolling through the photos on their cameras.
“My favorite was picking tea,” said Mia.
“I liked the glass walkway!” countered Leo.
For my husband and me, our favorite part was watching them fully engaged, learning, and laughing together. Taoyuan offered more than just a checklist of attractions; it gave us a shared experience that strengthened our family bond.
Planning Your Own Taoyuan Family Adventure: Quick Tips
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Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather.
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Getting Around: Renting a car provides the most flexibility for a family. Alternatively, Taoyuan’s public bus system is reliable.
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Must-Try Foods: Dried tofu on Daxi Old Street, Hakka lei cha (pounded tea), and local strawberry treats.
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Family-Friendly Accommodation: Look for hotels in Zhongli District or resorts near the mountain areas for a nature retreat.
Our journey through Taoyuan was a beautiful reminder that the best family memories are often found off the beaten path. It’s a destination that truly has it all for a family trip to Taiwan—culture, nature, adventure, and delicious food. We left with full hearts, a camera full of pictures, and a promise to ourselves to return one day.