NANTOU COUNTY — After more than 20 years in operation, Taiwan’s highest-altitude Starbucks store officially closed its doors on Monday evening, marking the end of an era for one of the island’s most iconic coffee spots.
Located at Qingjing Farm in Nantou County’s Ren’ai Township, the store stood 1,743 meters above sea level and first opened in 2003. Nestled within Mist Plaza beside the Qingjing Guest House, the café not only served beverages but also became a popular landmark for tourists visiting the scenic Central Taiwan mountains.
According to local media reports, a significant drop in visitor numbers may have played a role in the decision to cease operations. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Qingjing Farm attracted over a million visitors annually. However, in the years since, tourist turnout has struggled to rebound to those levels, with the farm only surpassing 800,000 visitors once—in 2022.
The closure has sparked concern among nearby businesses that rely on foot traffic driven by popular franchises like Starbucks. Some fear the departure may signal waning tourist interest in the area.
Despite the setback, Qingjing Farm announced that the Taiwan Good Coffee Company will take over the location, offering high-quality coffee and tea to visitors. The move aims to retain the site’s appeal while introducing a local brand experience to both domestic and international travelers.
The Qingjing Starbucks was not only notable for its altitude but also for its role in boosting tourism in the region, serving as a must-visit rest stop for travelers exploring the Hehuanshan range and surrounding mountain destinations.
