Values We Grow By
Transparency and quality in every sip.
Explore the journey of our teas from Taiwan's lush mountains to your home.
Our Tea Friends
The Philosophy of Tea
Tea goes beyond being a mere hot beverage for us; it is a meditation object, a method, and a way of life. While enjoying happiness in our own cup is wonderful, the joy of sharing it with others is even greater. My passion lies in advocating for Taiwanese tea and its rich tea culture, with a singular goal: to introduce the exquisite flavor of Taiwanese tea to a wider audience.
A Journey Rooted in Mindfulness
Lucy’s tea journey began in 2011, starting as a quiet practice of mindfulness and the art of brewing under tea masters. What began as a personal pursuit of peace soon grew into a deep curiosity to explore the mysteries of the leaf. By 2016, she dedicated herself fully to studying Taiwanese tea culture, earning professional certifications in tea brewing, sensory evaluation, and production in both Taiwan and China.
Deep Roots in Taiwan’s Agriculture
Her professional path took her into the very heart of the industry. Previously employed at the Tea Research and Extension Station under the Ministry of Agriculture, Lucy oversaw the pivotal "Top 100 Young Tea Farmers" program and the "International Tea Industry Educational Program."
Working closely with young farmers to improve cultivation and processing, she built strong, trusting relationships with those who tend the soil. She has been actively involved in fostering collaboration between tea merchants and industry professionals across borders, serving as a bridge between local farmers and the international community.
Qualifications & Expertise
Lucy combines formal training with years of hands-on experience. She is a licensed tea processing technician in Taiwan and a certified international tea sommelier. Her creativity and skill have been recognized with consecutive awards for Innovative Tea Brewing and Table Design in various competitions.
Her expertise centers around:
• Crafting and Evaluating: Deep knowledge of Taiwanese Oolong tea.
• Education: Teaching Taiwanese tea arts, Gongfu-style brewing, and mindful practices.
• Experience Design: Creating meaningful tea experiences in Taiwan’s tea regions.
Bridging Tradition and the Future
Today, Lucy continues to share her passion through teaching, tasting, and cultural storytelling. In 2023, she was honored to host the International Tea Symposium, further cementing her role in the global tea dialogue. Her work remains rooted in both tradition and innovation, always driven by the belief that tea connects people in profound and beautiful ways.
From Soil to Soul: Meet Lucy, Our Grounded Founder
The Philosophy of Tea
Tea goes beyond being a mere hot beverage for us; it is a meditation object, a method, and a way of life. While enjoying happiness in our own cup is wonderful, the joy of sharing it with others is even greater. My passion lies in advocating for Taiwanese tea and its rich tea culture, with a singular goal: to introduce the exquisite flavor of Taiwanese tea to a wider audience.
A Journey Rooted in Mindfulness
Lucy’s tea journey began in 2011, starting as a quiet practice of mindfulness and the art of brewing under tea masters. What began as a personal pursuit of peace soon grew into a deep curiosity to explore the mysteries of the leaf. By 2016, she dedicated herself fully to studying Taiwanese tea culture, earning professional certifications in tea brewing, sensory evaluation, and production in both Taiwan and China.
Deep Roots in Taiwan’s Agriculture
Her professional path took her into the very heart of the industry. Previously employed at the Tea Research and Extension Station under the Ministry of Agriculture, Lucy oversaw the pivotal "Top 100 Young Tea Farmers" program and the "International Tea Industry Educational Program."
Working closely with young farmers to improve cultivation and processing, she built strong, trusting relationships with those who tend the soil. She has been actively involved in fostering collaboration between tea merchants and industry professionals across borders, serving as a bridge between local farmers and the international community.
Qualifications & Expertise
Lucy combines formal training with years of hands-on experience. She is a licensed tea processing technician in Taiwan and a certified international tea sommelier. Her creativity and skill have been recognized with consecutive awards for Innovative Tea Brewing and Table Design in various competitions.
Her expertise centers around:
• Crafting and Evaluating: Deep knowledge of Taiwanese Oolong tea.
• Education: Teaching Taiwanese tea arts, Gongfu-style brewing, and mindful practices.
• Experience Design: Creating meaningful tea experiences in Taiwan’s tea regions.
Bridging Tradition and the Future
Today, Lucy continues to share her passion through teaching, tasting, and cultural storytelling. In 2023, she was honored to host the International Tea Symposium, further cementing her role in the global tea dialogue. Her work remains rooted in both tradition and innovation, always driven by the belief that tea connects people in profound and beautiful ways.
Cherishing Quiet Beauty
Korys introduces drawing as his method of cherishing the quiet beauty found in everyday life. He approaches his art not just as a visual practice, but as a way to share a sense of gentleness and uplift with the world.
The Power of Warmth
He believes deeply in the warmth of illustration. For Korys, art has the power to light up hearts, speak volumes, and even spark meaningful change. It is a medium that transcends words to touch the spirit.
A Joyful Collaboration
Collaborating with teafriend.shop has been a joyful and integral part of his journey. This partnership allows him to channel his artistic vision into a shared space that values aesthetic and emotional connection.
Moments of Calm
His ultimate goal is to offer little moments of calm and comfort. Together with teafriend.shop, Korys hopes to bring a sense of peace to all who encounter their work, turning everyday interactions into soothing experiences.
Drawing Warmth: Meet Korys Chang, the Gentle Illustrator
Cherishing Quiet Beauty
Korys introduces drawing as his method of cherishing the quiet beauty found in everyday life. He approaches his art not just as a visual practice, but as a way to share a sense of gentleness and uplift with the world.
The Power of Warmth
He believes deeply in the warmth of illustration. For Korys, art has the power to light up hearts, speak volumes, and even spark meaningful change. It is a medium that transcends words to touch the spirit.
A Joyful Collaboration
Collaborating with teafriend.shop has been a joyful and integral part of his journey. This partnership allows him to channel his artistic vision into a shared space that values aesthetic and emotional connection.
Moments of Calm
His ultimate goal is to offer little moments of calm and comfort. Together with teafriend.shop, Korys hopes to bring a sense of peace to all who encounter their work, turning everyday interactions into soothing experiences.
A Professional with Passion
Frankie introduces himself as a professional photographer specializing in capturing images for Michelin-starred restaurants. Alongside his high-level professional work, he shares a deep passion for tea with his friends, blending his artistic eye with his love for tea culture.
A Vessel for Curiosity
The product photography showcased on teafriend.shop is a glimpse into Frankie's inner world. For him, photography is the vessel through which he explores life's curiosities and embraces the unknown. It is a medium that allows him to navigate and appreciate the mysteries of the world around him.
Encapsulating Beauty
Whether shooting fine dining or tea, Frankie’s images aim to encapsulate the beauty and essence of the products they depict. He strives to present the subject in its most authentic form, ensuring the visual experience reflects the true quality of the item.
An Invitation to Experience
His ultimate goal is to invite viewers to experience the world through his lens. By presenting these images, Frankie offers a unique perspective, turning a simple visual into a shared moment of discovery and appreciation for the viewer.
Capturing Essence: Meet Frankie, the Visionary Photographer
A Professional with Passion
Frankie introduces himself as a professional photographer specializing in capturing images for Michelin-starred restaurants. Alongside his high-level professional work, he shares a deep passion for tea with his friends, blending his artistic eye with his love for tea culture.
A Vessel for Curiosity
The product photography showcased on teafriend.shop is a glimpse into Frankie's inner world. For him, photography is the vessel through which he explores life's curiosities and embraces the unknown. It is a medium that allows him to navigate and appreciate the mysteries of the world around him.
Encapsulating Beauty
Whether shooting fine dining or tea, Frankie’s images aim to encapsulate the beauty and essence of the products they depict. He strives to present the subject in its most authentic form, ensuring the visual experience reflects the true quality of the item.
An Invitation to Experience
His ultimate goal is to invite viewers to experience the world through his lens. By presenting these images, Frankie offers a unique perspective, turning a simple visual into a shared moment of discovery and appreciation for the viewer.
A Charming Representation of Life
On our tea farm, the praying mantis resting gently on a hand is more than just a cute encounter—it is a symbol of our farm's vitality. We call these diverse creatures our "Small Teafriends." They embody the essence of harmony and tranquility that defines our plantation.
The Proof of Purity
These insects are the most honest quality control inspectors. Their thriving presence is the ultimate proof that we strictly avoid harsh chemical pesticides. If the environment weren't safe for them, it wouldn't be safe for you. By protecting them, they protect the purity of our tea leaves.
Healthy Soil, Sustainable Future
These small friends play a massive role in our sustainability. A diverse population of insects contributes to a natural cycle that keeps the soil rich, aerated, and healthy without relying on artificial fertilizers.
Respecting the Connection
We humbly appreciate the interconnectedness of all elements. By fostering a balanced ecosystem where flora and fauna benefit each other, we shape a unique and enriching experience in every sip from your cup.
Harmony in Motion: Meeting Our Small Teafriends
A Charming Representation of Life
On our tea farm, the praying mantis resting gently on a hand is more than just a cute encounter—it is a symbol of our farm's vitality. We call these diverse creatures our "Small Teafriends." They embody the essence of harmony and tranquility that defines our plantation.
The Proof of Purity
These insects are the most honest quality control inspectors. Their thriving presence is the ultimate proof that we strictly avoid harsh chemical pesticides. If the environment weren't safe for them, it wouldn't be safe for you. By protecting them, they protect the purity of our tea leaves.
Healthy Soil, Sustainable Future
These small friends play a massive role in our sustainability. A diverse population of insects contributes to a natural cycle that keeps the soil rich, aerated, and healthy without relying on artificial fertilizers.
Respecting the Connection
We humbly appreciate the interconnectedness of all elements. By fostering a balanced ecosystem where flora and fauna benefit each other, we shape a unique and enriching experience in every sip from your cup.
A Guardian of Tradition
Li-Sheng introduces himself with a dual identity: a passionate tea lover and a dedicated inheritor of tea culture. For him, tea is not merely a commodity to be collected; it is a cultural legacy to be preserved, understood, and passed down to future generations.
The Warmth of Connection
In a fast-paced world, Li-Sheng emphasizes the stillness that tea requires. He believes that the act of tea tasting is a medium for creating "warm connections" between people. It is a shared ritual that brings not just social interaction, but a profound sense of inner peace to the drinker.
Dedicated to Natural Purity
As a "Tea Collector," Li-Sheng is unwavering about the source of his leaves. He is dedicated to providing only high-quality, naturally grown tea. He understands that to derive true peace from tea, the leaves themselves must be pure, nurtured by nature without harmful interference.
A Mission of Happiness and Health
His ultimate goal is straightforward: to share the gifts of tea with the world. By curating the finest selections, he aims to let more people taste the tangible happiness and physical health that tea brings. For Li-Sheng, every cup poured is an invitation to a healthier, more connected life.
Brewing Connection: Meet Li-Sheng, the Culture Inheritor
A Guardian of Tradition
Li-Sheng introduces himself with a dual identity: a passionate tea lover and a dedicated inheritor of tea culture. For him, tea is not merely a commodity to be collected; it is a cultural legacy to be preserved, understood, and passed down to future generations.
The Warmth of Connection
In a fast-paced world, Li-Sheng emphasizes the stillness that tea requires. He believes that the act of tea tasting is a medium for creating "warm connections" between people. It is a shared ritual that brings not just social interaction, but a profound sense of inner peace to the drinker.
Dedicated to Natural Purity
As a "Tea Collector," Li-Sheng is unwavering about the source of his leaves. He is dedicated to providing only high-quality, naturally grown tea. He understands that to derive true peace from tea, the leaves themselves must be pure, nurtured by nature without harmful interference.
A Mission of Happiness and Health
His ultimate goal is straightforward: to share the gifts of tea with the world. By curating the finest selections, he aims to let more people taste the tangible happiness and physical health that tea brings. For Li-Sheng, every cup poured is an invitation to a healthier, more connected life.
From Humble Beginnings to National Acclaim
The journey of the Taitung tea farm is one of resilience and growth. Starting from humble beginnings, the team embarked on a dedicated path to master the complete art of tea—from cultivation and processing to appreciation. Staying true to their vision despite challenges, they have transformed a small operation into a nationally recognized leader in the tea industry.
Honored by the "Shen Nong" Awards
Their unwavering dedication to quality has garnered prestigious recognition. They have earned the title "Expert in Production and Marketing Traceability" and secured a spot in the esteemed "Top Ten Shen Nong Awards of 2018"—often considered the Oscars of Taiwanese agriculture. These accolades reflect a deep commitment to doing things the right way, without shortcuts.
Nurturing the Land, Naturally
Beyond awards, the farm is defined by its relationship with the earth. They actively nurture the land using natural methods and organic fertilizers, ensuring each tea tree grows in a pollution-free environment. By conducting regular soil tests, they maintain the health of the ecosystem, which directly translates to the purity of the tea.
A Pioneer in Hygiene and Safety
What sets this farm apart is its obsession with hygiene. With crucial support from the Taitung branch of the Agricultural Improvement Station, they became the first ISO 22000 tea processing plant in Hualien and Taitung, and the third nationally recognized five-star facility.
Their commitment to upholding strict protocols has been acknowledged by the Agricultural Committee and Agricultural Food Agency. In their factory, rigorous quality control measures guarantee that every batch meets the highest standards of safety and integrity.
Unwavering Commitment
Despite the challenges of modern agriculture, their dedication never falters. By combining environmentally friendly farming with five-star processing standards, they ensure that loyal consumers receive tea products of unmatched integrity and quality.
Excellence in Every Leaf: The Five-Star Standard of Taitung
From Humble Beginnings to National Acclaim
The journey of the Taitung tea farm is one of resilience and growth. Starting from humble beginnings, the team embarked on a dedicated path to master the complete art of tea—from cultivation and processing to appreciation. Staying true to their vision despite challenges, they have transformed a small operation into a nationally recognized leader in the tea industry.
Honored by the "Shen Nong" Awards
Their unwavering dedication to quality has garnered prestigious recognition. They have earned the title "Expert in Production and Marketing Traceability" and secured a spot in the esteemed "Top Ten Shen Nong Awards of 2018"—often considered the Oscars of Taiwanese agriculture. These accolades reflect a deep commitment to doing things the right way, without shortcuts.
Nurturing the Land, Naturally
Beyond awards, the farm is defined by its relationship with the earth. They actively nurture the land using natural methods and organic fertilizers, ensuring each tea tree grows in a pollution-free environment. By conducting regular soil tests, they maintain the health of the ecosystem, which directly translates to the purity of the tea.
A Pioneer in Hygiene and Safety
What sets this farm apart is its obsession with hygiene. With crucial support from the Taitung branch of the Agricultural Improvement Station, they became the first ISO 22000 tea processing plant in Hualien and Taitung, and the third nationally recognized five-star facility.
Their commitment to upholding strict protocols has been acknowledged by the Agricultural Committee and Agricultural Food Agency. In their factory, rigorous quality control measures guarantee that every batch meets the highest standards of safety and integrity.
Unwavering Commitment
Despite the challenges of modern agriculture, their dedication never falters. By combining environmentally friendly farming with five-star processing standards, they ensure that loyal consumers receive tea products of unmatched integrity and quality.
"Weeds are My Crops"
In the world of modern agriculture, weeds and insects are often seen as enemies. But at this tea farm in Nantou, they are family. The tea artist manages the land with a profound philosophy: "Weeds are my crops, and the tea plantation is the home of insects." This isn't just farming; it is a dedication to conserving an ecologically diverse environment for forthcoming generations.
Natural Biological Antagonism
The path to sustainability requires patience and innovation. The tea artist has boldly eschewed chemical pesticides, turning instead to nature’s own pantry—using chili water, wood vinegar, and Bacillus subtilis for pest control.
Over time, he realized the power of "natural biological antagonism." By preserving a natural habitat, the ecosystem balances itself. This choice, influenced by his childhood connection to nature, allows the tea trees to naturally combat pest challenges without toxic intervention.
The Terroir of Songbailin
Positioned in Songbailin, at the southern outskirts of the Bagua Mountains, the plantation benefits from an altitude of around 300 meters. This unique terroir is perfect for cultivating vibrant varieties like Four Seasons Spring, Jinxuan, and Cuiyu.
Flavor Born from Resilience
The dedication to organic methods does more than protect the earth—it transforms the tea. By allowing the plants to adapt and fight naturally, the resulting leaves develop a heightened fragrance and intricate taste profile.
From the subtle, floral notes of Four Seasons Spring to the bold essence of fully oxidized black teas, every cup reflects the diverse flavors of a healthy, living ecosystem. In essence, this farm symbolizes a vision where agriculture and nature do not compete, but thrive together.
Harmony in the Wild: The Ecological Wisdom of Nantou
"Weeds are My Crops"
In the world of modern agriculture, weeds and insects are often seen as enemies. But at this tea farm in Nantou, they are family. The tea artist manages the land with a profound philosophy: "Weeds are my crops, and the tea plantation is the home of insects." This isn't just farming; it is a dedication to conserving an ecologically diverse environment for forthcoming generations.
Natural Biological Antagonism
The path to sustainability requires patience and innovation. The tea artist has boldly eschewed chemical pesticides, turning instead to nature’s own pantry—using chili water, wood vinegar, and Bacillus subtilis for pest control.
Over time, he realized the power of "natural biological antagonism." By preserving a natural habitat, the ecosystem balances itself. This choice, influenced by his childhood connection to nature, allows the tea trees to naturally combat pest challenges without toxic intervention.
The Terroir of Songbailin
Positioned in Songbailin, at the southern outskirts of the Bagua Mountains, the plantation benefits from an altitude of around 300 meters. This unique terroir is perfect for cultivating vibrant varieties like Four Seasons Spring, Jinxuan, and Cuiyu.
Flavor Born from Resilience
The dedication to organic methods does more than protect the earth—it transforms the tea. By allowing the plants to adapt and fight naturally, the resulting leaves develop a heightened fragrance and intricate taste profile.
From the subtle, floral notes of Four Seasons Spring to the bold essence of fully oxidized black teas, every cup reflects the diverse flavors of a healthy, living ecosystem. In essence, this farm symbolizes a vision where agriculture and nature do not compete, but thrive together.
Nature as the Master Teacher
Katie’s path in the world of tea is defined by humility and observation. She believes that the greatest teachers are not found in classrooms, but are the plants and the soil themselves. "I still learn from them today," she shares. This deep connection to the earth drives her philosophy as an organic tea farmer and producer in Taiwan.
The "Too Big" List: A Badge of Honor
This intense dedication to nature is exactly why Katie’s tea list is so extensive that even loyal customers sometimes lose track! From a business perspective, offering fewer teas might be easier, but Katie is unwavering in her refusal to simplify.
"From their point of view, fewer teas would be enough, but I cannot compromise," Katie explains. "I want to bring out everything that is in the leaves—every nuance and every variety! That is why my assortment is rich in specialties."
Sensing the Nuance of Terroir
For Katie, standardization is not the goal; expression is. She understands that every detail matters. "Each terroir, each tea cultivar, indeed, each individual tea bush produces leaves with very different characteristics," she says.
Her passion lies in sensing these subtle differences and helping them express themselves in the final cup. It is this pursuit of distinct character that has led her to curate a staggering range of 56 different varieties of teas from Taiwan, each with its own story and flavor profile.
Sharing "Happily Produced" Tea with the World
Katie’s uncompromising spirit is now crossing borders. She is delighted that traders from Germany have begun offering her specialties, bringing her unique flavors to a wider audience.
Her hope is simple yet profound: that tea lovers in Europe and beyond will get a taste for what she calls "happily produced tea"—tea made with joy, respect for nature, and an obsession with quality—and be inspired to explore the vast world of Taiwanese tea variants.
In Pursuit of Every Nuance: Meet Katie, the Uncompromising Artisan
Nature as the Master Teacher
Katie’s path in the world of tea is defined by humility and observation. She believes that the greatest teachers are not found in classrooms, but are the plants and the soil themselves. "I still learn from them today," she shares. This deep connection to the earth drives her philosophy as an organic tea farmer and producer in Taiwan.
The "Too Big" List: A Badge of Honor
This intense dedication to nature is exactly why Katie’s tea list is so extensive that even loyal customers sometimes lose track! From a business perspective, offering fewer teas might be easier, but Katie is unwavering in her refusal to simplify.
"From their point of view, fewer teas would be enough, but I cannot compromise," Katie explains. "I want to bring out everything that is in the leaves—every nuance and every variety! That is why my assortment is rich in specialties."
Sensing the Nuance of Terroir
For Katie, standardization is not the goal; expression is. She understands that every detail matters. "Each terroir, each tea cultivar, indeed, each individual tea bush produces leaves with very different characteristics," she says.
Her passion lies in sensing these subtle differences and helping them express themselves in the final cup. It is this pursuit of distinct character that has led her to curate a staggering range of 56 different varieties of teas from Taiwan, each with its own story and flavor profile.
Sharing "Happily Produced" Tea with the World
Katie’s uncompromising spirit is now crossing borders. She is delighted that traders from Germany have begun offering her specialties, bringing her unique flavors to a wider audience.
Her hope is simple yet profound: that tea lovers in Europe and beyond will get a taste for what she calls "happily produced tea"—tea made with joy, respect for nature, and an obsession with quality—and be inspired to explore the vast world of Taiwanese tea variants.
A Mission Rooted in Sustainability
Promoting an eco-conscious environment and sustainable farming practices has always been the core of Ming Rong’s mission. He believes that tea cultivation shouldn't just be about the harvest; it should be about fostering a balanced ecosystem that benefits both the land and the consumer. His goal is simple yet profound: the cultivation of safe, high-quality food through methods that respect nature.
The Art of Grass Cultivation
Unlike traditional farms that strip the soil bare, Ming Rong adopts a pioneering technique known as "grass cultivation." By intentionally incorporating various plants amidst the tea rows, he establishes a symbiotic relationship between the tea, soil microorganisms, and local wildlife.
This strategy does more than just look green—it enriches the tea plants with vital nutrients and promotes stable soil conditions year-round. It is a method that prioritizes long-term soil health over short-term convenience.
Overcoming Challenges: Nature as the Teacher
Transitioning to this method wasn't without its hurdles. The elimination of pesticides presented initial challenges, but Ming Rong persisted. This difficult phase encouraged the tea plants to adapt to their surroundings, leading to improved vitality.
Today, the farm is a thriving ecosystem where diverse birds and insects act as natural pest controllers. This natural balance has enhanced the intrinsic quality of the tea, proving that nature knows best how to protect itself.
Precision Meets Ecology
Ming Rong’s approach combines natural wisdom with scientific precision.
• Soil Analysis: He utilizes detailed soil analysis to enable precise fertilizer application.
• Carbon Reduction: By maximizing nutrient utilization, he reduces soil disruption and lowers carbon emissions.
• Biodiversity: Creating a habitat that supports a wide range of plant and animal life.
Evolving for the Future
Committed to quality, environmental sustainability, and consumer safety, Ming Rong continues to evolve. He constantly seeks innovative ways to meet changing environmental demands, ensuring that every sip of tea is as kind to the earth as it is delightful to the palate.
Cultivating Harmony: Meet Ming Rong, Our Ecological Guardian
A Mission Rooted in Sustainability
Promoting an eco-conscious environment and sustainable farming practices has always been the core of Ming Rong’s mission. He believes that tea cultivation shouldn't just be about the harvest; it should be about fostering a balanced ecosystem that benefits both the land and the consumer. His goal is simple yet profound: the cultivation of safe, high-quality food through methods that respect nature.
The Art of Grass Cultivation
Unlike traditional farms that strip the soil bare, Ming Rong adopts a pioneering technique known as "grass cultivation." By intentionally incorporating various plants amidst the tea rows, he establishes a symbiotic relationship between the tea, soil microorganisms, and local wildlife.
This strategy does more than just look green—it enriches the tea plants with vital nutrients and promotes stable soil conditions year-round. It is a method that prioritizes long-term soil health over short-term convenience.
Overcoming Challenges: Nature as the Teacher
Transitioning to this method wasn't without its hurdles. The elimination of pesticides presented initial challenges, but Ming Rong persisted. This difficult phase encouraged the tea plants to adapt to their surroundings, leading to improved vitality.
Today, the farm is a thriving ecosystem where diverse birds and insects act as natural pest controllers. This natural balance has enhanced the intrinsic quality of the tea, proving that nature knows best how to protect itself.
Precision Meets Ecology
Ming Rong’s approach combines natural wisdom with scientific precision.
• Soil Analysis: He utilizes detailed soil analysis to enable precise fertilizer application.
• Carbon Reduction: By maximizing nutrient utilization, he reduces soil disruption and lowers carbon emissions.
• Biodiversity: Creating a habitat that supports a wide range of plant and animal life.
Evolving for the Future
Committed to quality, environmental sustainability, and consumer safety, Ming Rong continues to evolve. He constantly seeks innovative ways to meet changing environmental demands, ensuring that every sip of tea is as kind to the earth as it is delightful to the palate.