The Taiwanese tea tradition began to develop in the second half of the 16th century, when Chinese, mostly from Fujian province, brought tea bushes and started to cultivate tea on the island. However, a big breakthrough in the development of the tea industry occurred during the Japanese occupation (1895-1945). Taiwan started to be known for its high quality due to the large amount of tea exported to Europe and America. In 1926, was built a Taiwan Tea Research and Extension Station (TTRES), where was developed techniques to optimize the cultivation of tea hybrids adapted to the climate of the island. In the 1940s-50s, new cultivars like Nai Xiang Jin Xuan, Gui Hua Oolong, Si Ji Chun, etc. Large tea factories and many private farms began to appear. The Second World War destroyed the tea market and after it ended, Taiwanese producers turned their attention to the domestic market, which demanded the creation of better quality teas. This led to positive results as it forced scientists to research and develop the oxidation techniques needed to create a natural floral fragrance without the use of real flowers. In 1975 the Tea Growers Co-op in Lu Gu township organized the first Tea Competition between tea producers to help in developing the industry and raise the quality of tea. All these factors played a big role in creating the Highest Mastery Tea with a rich history and deep traditions.

Taiwan is famous for its wulong tea. Gao Shan (highland) Wulongs is the common name for all wulongs that are harvested on plantations located above 1000 meters above sea level. There are a lot of different cultivars used for the creation of such kinds of teas. Most famous are: Jin Xuan (TTES #12), Cui Yu/Jade (TTES #13), Qin Xin Oolong (TTRES #17), Hong Yu (TTRES #18), Hong Yun (TTRES #21), Si Ji Chuan, Qin Xin Da Mao, Da Ye Oolong, Teguanyin, Wu Yi Zhong etc.

There are 12 countries in Taiwan divided into four main tea areas.

NORTH TEA AREA - TAIPEI, TAUYUAN, HSINCHU, MIAOLI - This are is known for its first tea plantation grown here since first Chinese refugees moved from China and started cultivating tea gardens. Famous for Muzha Tieguanyin as well as unique Taiwanese teas like Baouzhong and Dong Fang Mai Ren ('Bai Hao Wulong' or 'Oriental Beauty')

CENTRAL TEA AREA - NANTOU (YUCHI, LU GU, MINGJIAN, ZHUSHAN), ILAN, YUNLIN - The largest tea producing region in Taiwan. Famous for its wulongs and red tea.

HUAGDONG TEA AREA - HUALIEN

SOUTH TEA AREA - CHIA-I, TAITUNG, KAOHSIUNG, PINGTUNG