🌿🍵 Shizhuo (Shizhao), Zhuqi Township: A Summer Retreat in Taiwan’s Tea Paradise

#summervacay
📍 Why Visit Shizhuo in Summer?
Nestled in Alishan’s tea belt, this tiny village is where misty mountains, emerald tea terraces, and cool breezes (avg. 20°C) offer respite from Taiwan’s heat. Summer means tea harvesting, fireflies, and sunrise views over sea of clouds—all without the crowds of Alishan!

🗓️ 1-2 Day Itinerary: Tea, Trails & Twilight Magic

Day 1: Tea Culture & Forest Bathing

Morning:
From Chiayi: Take bus 7322 to Zhuqi (1h), then taxi to Shizhuo (~15min).
Check into a tea homestay (e.g., Long Yun Leisure Farm or Tanayiku Tea House).
Midday:
Tea Farm Tour: Pick leaves, learn roasting at Zhangshu Tea Factory.
Lunch: Homestyle mountain veggies + bamboo rice at your homestay.
Afternoon:
Hike the Mist Trail (Yunwu Trail): 1.5km loop through fog-draped tea fields.
Visit Eryanping: Walk the bamboo forests and 360° viewing platform.
Evening:
Firefly Spotting (May-July): Guided night walks through glowing trails.
Sunset Tea Ceremony: Sip Alishan oolong on a terrace.
Day 2: Sunrise & Secret Spots

Dawn:
Sunrise at Eryanping: Watch clouds roll over tea terraces (5 AM).
Morning:
Bike Ride: Rent a bike to explore hidden tea villages like Ruili or Guanghua.
Fenqihu Stop: En route back, try Alishan railway bento (便当).
🌱 Unique Experiences:

✅ Hands-On Tea Picking (July-Aug): Join farmers at dawn.
✅ DIY Tea Roasting: Learn from masters at Tanayiku.
✅ Starry Skies: Minimal light pollution = epic milky way views.

📌 Travel Tips:

Transport: Bus + taxi is best (no direct trains). Pre-book homestay pickups.
Packing: Layers (chilly mornings), rain gear, sturdy sandals.
Cash Only: Most tea farms/homestays don’t take cards.
"Shizhuo isn’t just a village—it’s a sip of slow life, steeped in mist and tradition." Ready to unwind? 🍃💧