Baozhong (Pouchong) Tea: Taiwan's Lightest Oolong
Baozhong is the greenest, most floral of Taiwan's oolongs, grown in the misty hills of Pinglin near Taipei. Here's how it tastes and how to enjoy it.
By David Wu · Updated June 1, 2026 · 6 min read
What is Baozhong?
Baozhong (包種), often romanized Pouchong, is the lightest oolong Taiwan makes. It is only lightly oxidized and twisted into loose, wavy strands rather than tight balls. The result sits right at the border between oolong and green tea — but with an unmistakable oolong fragrance.
Where it comes from
Baozhong's home is Pinglin, in the Wenshan tea area of New Taipei, southeast of Taipei city. The misty, humid hills there are ideal for the style, and Pinglin's identity is built around it.
How it tastes
Expect a pale golden liquor and a high, clean aroma — think lily, orchid, and fresh spring greenery — with a smooth, sweet finish and very little astringency.
How to drink it
Because the florals are delicate, brew Baozhong slightly cooler than a rolled high mountain oolong: around 85–90°C, with short steeps. Use plenty of leaf and enjoy the aroma between infusions.
Who it's for
Baozhong is for drinkers who love delicate, floral, low-roast tea, and for anyone curious about the lighter end of the oolong spectrum. It is also a gentle, aromatic introduction for green-tea fans.
Where to try it
Visit Pinglin to taste Baozhong at its source and see the Pinglin Tea Museum. Our Pinglin guide and northern tea weekend route show how to combine it with a relaxed day in the hills.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Baozhong a green tea?
- No — it is a lightly oxidized oolong. It is the oolong that comes closest to green tea in color and freshness, but its processing and aroma are distinctly oolong.
- Where is Baozhong from?
- Its heartland is Pinglin in New Taipei, in the Wenshan tea area southeast of Taipei — the most accessible serious tea region from the capital.
- How should I brew Baozhong?
- Use slightly cooler water than for rolled high mountain oolong — around 85–90°C — with short steeps. Its delicate florals can be scorched by very hard boiling water.
- Should Baozhong be drunk fresh?
- Generally yes. Light, low-oxidation Baozhong is prized for freshness and fragrance, so it is best enjoyed relatively young rather than aged.