taiwan tourism hwz

• Travel and Accommodation

• Hisashiburi
• Aug 18, 2015
• hottiedoggie
• Jan 13, 2014

• fireworks79
• Apr 1, 2019

• Dec 26, 2023
• Apr 15, 2024

• Feb 16, 2024

• Sunday at 10:35 AM

• Nov 8, 2017

• Aug 22, 2010
• Apr 1, 2024

• PhantomOpera
• Nov 22, 2018
• Oct 6, 2022
• Feb 27, 2023

• Mar 12, 2024
• Dec 16, 2023
• Mar 4, 2024

• Feb 28, 2024
• Jan 3, 2024

• Jan 10, 2024

How I Spent a Week in Taiwan: An 8-Day Taiwan Itinerary

A relatively less explored destination in East Asia, the island of Taiwan packs a punch with a pleasing mix of varied offerings; gorgeous national parks and mountainous scenic areas with hiking trails and few visitors, indigenous cultures rich in tradition, art and crafts, delicious cuisines from the mountains and coast, and cities that are effortlessly cool, fashionable, hipster, arty, and intriguing, all at once.

Then of course, there are the people – friendly, open, welcoming (also of diversity) and so polite they put the rest of the world to shame, and you begin to wonder how Taiwan has remained a secret for so long.

Here’s my 8-day Taiwan itinerary with places to visit in Taiwan, tips, practical information and additional ideas for shorter and longer itineraries. If you’re mainly visiting the capital Taipei, then you might be interested in my guide to the best things to do and places to visit in Taipei .

An 8- Day Taiwan Itinerary

You can use this 8-day Taiwan itinerary to plan your trip but I’ve written it down in a way that allows for some flexibility- whether you’re traveling in Taiwan for a week, are looking for a 10-day itinerary or are visiting Taiwan for two weeks.

You can add extra days in places that seem more appealing or visit a few more famous spots such as the Taroko Gorge , reduce the days in cities that might not seem as interesting to you, and also consider the additional days itinerary and suggestions at the end of this post.

Day 1: Sightseeing and Urban Exploration in Taipei

While I’m usually not much of a city person, I was pleasantly surprised by Taipei, and I can safely say that I would love to return and see more of the city. It’s totally one of the top places to visit in Taiwan, something I don’t necessarily say of every capital.

There are so many amazing things to do and places to visit in Taipei , that you can easily spend a week here. 

Make no mistake, this city (along with New Taipei) is home to a population of six million, but surprisingly, I saw and felt none of the chaos that I’ve come to associate with Asian capitals- think the daredevilry of strategically navigating the traffic of a Hanoi intersection or the sea of humanity that you find yourself in in a floating market in Thailand.

In contrast, Taipei is calm and orderly and easy. No one jaywalks here, no one litters, queues are patient and orderly, and busy spaces don’t feel claustrophobically overcrowded.

It’s incredibly easy to get around with an excellent public transportation system (and Uber), and English is widely spoken.

Yongkang Street, Taipei

And the people? In Taipei, and the rest of the country, it was hard not to acknowledge again and again just how polite, welcoming and friendly the people were.

In fact, if you’re Muslim, you should know that Taiwan is very Muslim-friendly, with many halal restaurants in Taipei, mosques such as the Taipei Grand Mosque , prayer rooms at the airport, as well as hotel rooms that indicate the direction of Qibla and provide prayer mats.

Taipei Grand Mosque

In fact, Taipei felt like the most live-able Asian capital I’ve visited- think bike lanes, plenty of green spaces, great food (both local and international), art and culture, and an active lifestyle.

The city is home to beautiful temples, museums, and historic sights, but also feels modern and cool with creative parks, galleries, cafés, shopping and nightlife. If these aren’t already reasons enough, here are more reasons to visit Taipei .

To get around Taipei, use public transportation or Uber. You can also get on a Hop On Hop Off Bus to see the main sights or book a private car . If you’re more an active traveler, consider doing a bike tour of Taipei .

While two or four days is barely enough to see everything that Taipei has to offer (hence my desire to return and stay longer), here are just some of the amazing things I did during my few days in the Taipei.

Get a Traditional Soy Milk Breakfast

Yong He Soy Milk King is a little hole-in-the-wall breakfast place that sees a long queue of diners patiently waiting outside in the early hours of the morning. They’re open 24/7 and seem to be quite a hit with the afterhours crowd as well.

There’s lots of action going on in the kitchen that looks upon the street; a wrap being prepared here, a donut-type bread being fried there, dumplings being steamed, and bowls of hot soy milk being poured for hungry customers.

It’s self-service, so you collect your order, grab the cutlery and join the locals to enjoy your breakfast.

Yong He SoyMilk King

On our guide’s recommendation I got the steaming hot salty doujiang or rich, creamy soymilk with vinegar, shrimp and tofu, and seasoned with spices and spring onions (35NTD=1USD), plus an egg pancake (shaobing) (25NTD=under 1 USD).

I’d never tasted this version of soymilk before and it was delicious (but a huge portion that I couldn’t finish), as was the egg pancake.

There’s also a fried doughnut-type bread (you tiao) that you can dunk in the hot soymilk, as well as dumplings, and steamed buns. If you sit inside, there’s an English menu with pictures, so you should be okay to order.

You can also find them on Facebook .

Breakfast at Yong He Soy Milk King: doujiang and shaobing

Yong He Soy Milk King

No. 102號, Section 2, Fuxing South Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

Visit the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

When in Taipei, you’ll inevitably find yourself at the grand Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and the square is also home to two beautiful examples of Chinese architecture- the National Theater and National Concert Hall, at what is one of Taipei’s most visited tourist attractions.

At Liberty Square, you’ll find tourists ambling along taking photos as well as locals- groups of retirees playing drums and children practicing Tai Chi.

And while it makes for pretty pictures, it’s good to know a little bit about the country’s complicated history with China and under former President Chiang Kai-Shek.

Liberty Square

You might know that China, or the People’s Republic of China (PRC) claims sovereignty over Taiwan, which is a self-ruled democracy, and intends to unify it with mainland China.

What you might not know is that Taiwan was under Japanese colonial rule for 50 years, at a time when mainland China was governed by the Kuomintang (KMT), or the Republic of China (ROC).

After the Second World War, Japan surrendered Taiwan to the ROC in 1945. In 1949, the ROC lost control of mainland China to the Communist Party or PRC. It was President Chiang Kai-Shek who brought the Kuomintang or ROC to Taiwan.

That political camp still claims to represent all of China and supports eventual unification with China, whereas the opposition (Democratic Progressive Party) considers Taiwan to be an independent democracy and resists any claims on Taiwanese sovereignty.

Under the ROC and President Chiang Kai-Shek, Taiwan whose economy had prospered under Japanese rule, was subjected to economic abuse and corruption, and any protests were met with injustices and atrocities, eventually resulting in martial law for 38 years (ending in July 1987, this was the world’s longest period of martial law until Syria).

If you want to learn more about this, read about the February 28 incident .

After Chiang Kai-Shek’s death in 1975, Taiwan carved out its separate identity and established a successful multiparty democracy, though it faces political challenges and a looming threat from China.

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, Taipei

The white, blue, and red (colors of the Taiwanese flag) marble building in the center is the Memorial Hall, and just outside, Liberty Square is Taipei’s gathering spot for protests, movements, gathering, concerts, festivals, and public events, some like the Wild Lily movement , which have shaped the course of history for the island nation.

Two sets of 89 stairs, depicting the age of the former President when he died, on either side of a marble mural with ROC symbolism lead up to the main hall where his giant bronze statue looks upon visitors.

At the bottom of the stairs, is a gallery with exhibits (such as his official state cars- Cadillacs) to learn more about his life and work. There’s a changing of the guard ceremony that takes place in the main hall every hour on the hour and attracts quite a crowd.

Chiang Kai-Shek statue at CKS Memorial Hall

The National Theater and National Concert Hall are home to performance venues, galleries, libraries, and cafés, and are worth a visit, as is the landscaped park behind the buildings. This half-day tour takes you on a guided visit of the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial, National Palace Museum and other sights around Taipei.

Dr. Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

106, Taiwan, Taipei City, Da’an District

Wander around Ximending, Taipei’s Walking District

No visit to Taipei is complete without a wander around Ximending (pronounce shi-men-ting), the city’s buzzing pedestrian shopping and entertainment district.

Here, bright lights, neon signs, street art, pop-up exhibitions, theaters, quirky stores, local boutiques, and themed cafés surround you, and the sounds of music and animated advertising and the chatter of hundreds of people are in the air- it’s all quite visually stimulating if you’ve never seen that kind of thing before (I hadn’t).

While Ximending might look like a new recreational district, it’s actually been around since the Japanese colonial times when it was built as a suburb near the west gate of the old city- hence the name Ximending which translates to West Gate District. The area has been home to culture and the arts at least since the 1930s.

Ximending Walking Street

There are stores selling everything from clothing and shoes to vintage finds and antiques, and this is also the place to try some street food and Taiwanese favorites such as fried chicken (tasty and worth trying) at places like Hot-Star .

If you plan to visit one of many themed cafés that Taipei is famous for, then the toilet-themed Modern Toilet in Ximending, that serves food that looks like poop, drinks that look like urine, and where you eat seated on a toilet, is a good place to start.

Ximending is also popular for its outdoor bars and nightlife, especially in the LGBT district behind the iconic Red House Theater . While it was built in 1908, also during the Japanese colonial times, as a public market, today it’s a creative and cultural hub, one of many in the city.

Ximending, Taipei

The entire area really comes alive in the evenings with performances on the street, and if you want to carry on the fun times late into the night, then consider one of the KTV or karaoke rooms here.

And because I don’t want you to miss all the cool stuff there is to do and see here such as trying craft beer in Taipei, I’ll share this post about Ximending (that I wish I’d seen before I went to Ximending) by a Taipei insider.

Ximending Walking District

No. 9, Lane 50, Hanzhong Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108

Taste Taipei’s Famous Beef Noodles

For an authentic no-frills meal, try local favorite beef noodles at the highly regarded but easy to miss hole-in-the-wall Chang’s Beef Noodles Shop . This place has over six decades of history and is recommended in the Michelin Guide to Taipei.

The restaurant only uses Taiwanese beef (never frozen) and the meat here is halal, so it’s Muslim-friendly. The specialty of the house is their beef noodle soup and the beef jerky stuffed flatbread also comes highly recommended.

Chang’s Beef Noodles Shop

No. 21, Yanping South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100

Visit a Night Market in Taipei

Taipei’s night markets are a huge part of the city’s nightlife as well as the food scene with several food stalls at the night markets having been recognized by the Michelin Guide.

With having begun in the 1950s to slowly develop as centers of social life, to visit a night market in Taipei is to have a true cultural experience in Taipei.

There are tons of night markets in Taipei, from those that cater to tourists to others where you’ll find locals enjoying their dinner, to ones geared towards students looking to buy the latest local fashions at cheap prices. Here are the best night markets to visit in Taipei . 

Where To Stay in Taipei

The Howard Plaza Hotel Taipei is a luxury hotel that is centrally located, and is within walking distance of many interesting sights, restaurants and neighborhoods. There are a couple of restaurants and cafés in the hotel building as well as a shopping mall.

Taipei has various types of accommodation to suit every budget- from hotels and apartments to hostels.

Day 2: Art, Culture and Night Markets in Kaohsiung

Considering how off-the-beaten-path Taiwan is, I won’t be surprised if you haven’t heard of Kaohsiung. I hadn’t, but Taiwan’s second largest city was full of surprises, and as is true of every place I visited on my trip, I’d have liked to stay longer and see more. So I’m definitely going to recommend it in my Taiwan itinerary.

As the biggest port in Taiwan, Kaohsiung is important to Taiwan’s economy. Considering that, the location of my hotel and the view from my window was fitting. Thanks to its southern location, the weather here can be considerably warmer and sunnier than in Taipei.

It’s also pretty easy to get to- we took the high-speed rail from Taipei to Kaohsiung and got there in a very comfortable 2 hours and 6 minutes. See other options on public transport from Taipei to Kaohsiung .

You can tour Kaohsiung on your own or do this guided trip with a local that’s very reasonably priced.

Admire the Pagodas and Temples at Lotus Lake

Lotus Lake is an artificial lake in Zuoying District that was opened in 1951 and is a hit with Instagrammers visiting Taiwan, and I could totally see why. Right in the lake are twin Tiger and Dragon pagodas, each seven-storied and a sight to behold with dramatic colors, designs, and craftsmanship adorning the exterior.

Entrance is free and I can imagine the area being even more beautiful when the lotuses in the lake are in full bloom.

Dragon and Tiger Pagodas Kaohsiung

You can enter the pagodas to look at scenes depicting heaven and hell, and climb the stairs up to the top for views over the area.

Legend has it that you must enter through the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s mouth to turn your bad fortune into good luck.

But these pagodas aren’t the only sight worth checking out. Around the periphery of the lake and across the street are around 20 Buddhist and Taoist temples that are examples of gorgeous Chinese architecture.

These include the Wuli pavilion, Spring and Autumn pavilions dedicated to the God of War and featuring a statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Qi Ming Tang temple, Fu Gong temple, Yuandi temple, as well as a Confucian temple.

Note that they’re functional temples and actual places of worship so be mindful of your camera inside and respect people’s privacy.

You can walk or bike around the area on dedicated bike paths. Plan at least two hours for your visit. Thanks to how photogenic it is, Lotus Lake is one of the top places to visit in Taiwan for Instagrammers.

Lotus Lake/Pond

Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 813

Check out the Art at Pier-2 Art Center

One thing you can’t miss about Taiwan, and one of the things I love- is that in the cities here, art is important.

You’ll find many creative parks in Taipei (more on that later) and Kaohsiung has its own art and culture hub at Pier-2 Art Center that’s completely worth a visit. The area is home to artist studios, galleries, exhibitions, and boutiques selling artisanal goods and crafts, in formerly abandoned warehouses.

You’ll also find exhibits, murals, installations, and instagrammable nooks, so spend enough time wandering around- here’s are some of the coolest public art installations you should not miss. When you need to rest your legs, take a break at one of the cafés around.

Pier 2 Art-Center

Pier 2- Art center Kaohsiung

Pier 2 Art Center

Pier-2 Art Center

803, Taiwan, Kaohsiung City, Yancheng District

Go Souvenir Shopping at Meinong Folk Village

For a taste of Hakka culture, stop by the Meinong Folk Village in Meinong, home to a sizeable Hakka community- Han Chinese that originated in mainland China, speak the Hakka language, and migrated to this part of Taiwan.

The cultural village is essentially a compound that’s home to little stores selling souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, crafts, bamboo baskets and other products and beautiful paper umbrellas, adorned with colorful designs and patterns. The stores are housed in buildings that are ancestral homes.

You can also see the umbrellas being made, and stop for lunch to taste Hakka cuisine (try the Hakka specialty Ban tiao noodles). Afterwards, make a quick stop at Zhong Zheng Lake to spend a few minutes enjoying the fantastic view surrounded by mountains.

Meinong Folk Village

No. 80號, Lane 421, Section 2, Zhongshan Road, Meinong District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 843

Take a Boat Tour on the Love River

Kaohsiung Harbor is also known as Love Pier , as the name of the river that runs through Kaohsiung, Ai He, translates to Love River. On a 40-minute boat tour you’ll see the colors and lights of Ruifeng Night Market as well as various landmark buildings along the banks.

We visited just before the Taiwan Lantern Festival was about to begin, so there were plenty of brightly lit lanterns displayed in the park by the banks.

Boat tour on the Love River

Visit the Ruifeng Night Market

When in Taiwan, you shouldn’t miss visiting the night markets- they’re an integral part of any Taiwan itinerary. Night markets are an interesting mix of people, food, lights, music, art, and shopping.

While at first, all of the sights, sounds and crowds can feel overwhelming, once you relax and take the time to wander around without set plans, it’s one of the most authentic market experiences you’ll get to see in Taiwan.

Ruifeng Night Market

Just after our boat tour of the Love River, I found myself following the crowds at Ruifeng Night Market . That evening, perhaps as part of the New Year celebrations, there was a traditional theater performance in action, as swelling crowds watched and applauded.

The mood was festive, as families and groups gathered to watch the show. And I have to say this again- the Taiwanese are polite and respectful of personal space, even in largely crowded settings.

Theater at Ruifeng Night Market

Fish balls at Ruifeng Night Market- too strong a taste for me

804, Taiwan, Kaohsiung City, Zuoying District, Yucheng Road

Where to stay in Kaohsiung

We stayed at the 85 Sky Tower Hotel in Kaohsiung, a luxurious, centrally located hotel with modern rooms.

You can also search for other hotels, hostels and apartments in Kaohsiung.

Day 3: All of the Lights at Taiwan Lantern Festival

If you’re planning to visit Taiwan, then it’s worth timing your travels to coincide with the annual Taiwan Lantern Festival held in February each year. I was lucky to be invited to attend and experience this spectacular celebration of lights, music, art and technology at the Taiwan Lantern Festival 2019 and it was absolutely incredible.

The festival is held in a different city in Taiwan each year. Bear in mind that the Taiwan Lantern Festival is different from the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival that is held in New Taipei and involves releasing paper lanterns into the sky.

This year the festival, in its 30 th year, was held in the coastal county of Pingtung from 19 th February until 3 rd March. The event that took over a year to plan saw thousands of people come together to appreciate colorful, artistic, interactive and often high-tech lanterns of all sizes and shapes on land, in the air and on water, as well as drone light shows and performances on the water.

The main lantern was a giant Bluefin tuna, a symbol of prosperity in the fishing-centered coastal county of Pingtung.

Bluefin tuna lantern at Taiwan Lantern Festival 2019

The lanterns, designed by local and international artists follow the themes of harvest, ecotourism, indigenous cultures, immigration, natural landscapes, cuisine and history, among other sub-themes. The festival marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations.

If you plan to visit Taiwan in 2020, you should know that the Taiwan Lantern Festival will be held in Taichung from 8 th to 23 rd February 2020 and plan to include it in your Taiwan itinerary.

Taiwan Lantern festival

Taiwan Lantern Festival 2019

Taiwan Lantern Festival

The lanterns are usually spread out over a few different areas and the main festival grounds are massive, so wear comfortable shoes. Food stalls and clean toilets are available, as is a Visitors Center with information on the different lanterns and themed areas.

Days 4 and 5: Escape to the Mountains in Alishan

If it’s about mountains, then you know it’s going to be my most favorite part of the trip. Located in Taiwan’s Chiayi County, Alishan (or Ali Mountain), with its highest peak Tower Hill at 2663m is Taiwan’s most popular mountain destination and did not disappoint.

The spectacular green landscape of Alishan National Scenic Area , fresh mountain air, ancient sacred trees, and cherry blossoms, as well as forest hikes and a surreal sunrise are all solid reasons why a visit to Alishan should be on every Taiwan itinerary.

Experience an Alishan Sunrise and Ride on a Small Gauge Forest Train

We arrived at our amazing hotel Alishan House just around sunset when the skies turned a fiery orange-pink. The next morning we woke up at 4.30am to see the famous Alishan sunrise.

Now I’m not a morning person and I hadn’t seen a sunrise in years, but this sunrise was definitely something special and totally worthy of waking up at that unearthly hour.

What makes this experience cool is taking an old train through the forest (get there early if you want to seats) at an hour when the world is just waking up.

When Taiwan was still under Japanese colonial rule, they built the Alishan Forest Railway to transport logged wood from the trees in the forests. Alishan was a major tourist destination even before they left, but eventually the train began to be used for the transportation of tourists.

Alishan Forest Railway

You can buy tickets for this train either at Alishan train station or ask your hotel.

Alishan House sells tickets, and offers a shuttle to the train station (ours left at 5.10am) for a train that leaves at 5.40am. They’ll also confirm the sunrise time and arrange a wake-up call should you so wish.

To see the sunrise, get off at the second (final) stop called Chu-Shan, and follow the crowds to the viewing platform. It can get pretty crowded, so try to get yourself a good spot easily.

There’s a tree smack in the middle if you stand to the right side, so if you plan to take photos, think about your frame.

And here’s what I wish I knew before I went: While this viewing platform with the fence is the most obvious spot to see the sunrise, and is as crowded as it is, there’s another octagonal viewing platform at Mt. Ogasawara, that you can walk to in only ten minutes from the Chu-Shan train station.

Alishan sunrise

We’re told we were lucky to see the sunrise in all its glory, as usually the sky is very cloudy (so much that most accounts of Alishan sunrises include the term ‘sea of clouds’), so I guess we have to thank the weather gods for cooperating.

There were two trains back to Alishan after the 6.50am sunrise- at 7.05am and 7.25am, but I imagine this changes depending on the time of the sunrise, so be sure to check the signs when you get off the train.

It can get very cold at that hour (it was about six degrees when I went in February) so be sure to wear a warm jacket, get a beanie, scarf, gloves and whatever else you may need to keep warm as you wait for the sunrise.

There are food stalls and you can also get hot coffee or tea to keep warm while you wait. The trains can get crowded so you may or may not get a seat on your way there and back, but you can still travel standing.

Hike in the forests of Alishan National Scenic Area

If you’re staying at Alishan House or in Alishan township, there are several trails (on interconnected wooden platforms and easy steps) that lead from the hotel and town (where the grand Taoist temple is) into the forests that are worth checking out. We were lucky to see cherry blossoms in bloom quite close to the hotel.

Explore the trails in the Alishan Scenic Area

Further along on the Giant Tree trail are red cypress trees that are thousands of years old (some over 2000 years), as well as red pine, spruce, elm and fir.

There is something quite humbling about walking in silence surrounded by beings that have been around for thousands of years on the very planet you now call home.

From the town square with the temple, there are also signs pointing to the Elder Sisters Pond. It’s a quick hike through the forest, taking some stairs and past a Magnolia garden to a calm pond with a perfect mirror reflection.

The forest trails aren’t crowded at all, and you can explore all of these easily after you return from watching the sunrise.

Elder Sisters Pond, Alishan

Tsou Cultural Experiences at YuYuPas Cultural Park

Head to YuYuPas Cultural Park , a tourist attraction run by the indigenous Tsou ethnic tribe, the original inhabitants of this region. The park serves as a means to sustain the community, preserve the culture, and share their traditions and heritage with tourists.

The park is home to a tea plantation, traditional houses, and an exhibition hall. There’s a restaurant with a set menu of Tsou delicacies (can be altered depending on your preferences of meat and vegetarian dishes) and the food is excellent, so definitely have lunch here.

Yuyupas Tea Plantation

You can also taste (and buy) their lovely Alishan High Mountain Oolong tea and there’s a café onsite as well. There’s a cultural performance at the community theater at set times with Tsou community members singing and dancing in their traditional costumes. While there’s some folk music, there’s also a bit of warrior dancing on Enigma’s 1993 release- Return to Innocence.

Taste and buy Alishan Oolong tea at Yuyupas Culture Village

Cultural show at YuYuPas Cultural Village

YuYuPas Cultural Park

605, Taiwan, Chiayi County, Alishan Township

Watch The Video on Youtube

Where To Stay in Alishan

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by our lovely luxury hotel Alishan House as I was expecting simpler lodgings in the mountains. But then again, it was obvious on our first day that Alishan is used to tourists, as it is one of the top places to visit in Taiwan, and has been seeing tourists since at least four decades.

The modern hotel has a great observation deck and a restaurant that serves buffet breakfast and dinner. They also arrange shuttles to the train station so you can see the sunrise. They have both modern rooms and rustic rooms in the heritage section of the hotel, and all rooms have modern amenities.

Alishan House

Alishan offers a variety of hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses for every budget.

Day 6: Quirky & Cool Taichung

Taichung is a city in western Taiwan that has better weather when the days are grey and rainy in Taipei. We used it as a base to break up the journey from Alishan back to Taipei and check out the World Flora Exposition 2019.

Taichung is a modern city, with a cool arts and culture scene, quirky attractions , museums and galleries, shopping, and a dining scene that’s worth exploring if you have the time. If you like cities, then Taichung is one of the top places to visit in Taiwan.

It’s also been voted as the most liveable city in Taiwan. Plus, it’s also home to Taiwan’s largest night market- Fengjia Night Market and Rainbow Village, as well as several other sights and attractions.

If Instagram-travel is your thing, then you’ll most certainly want at least two days in Taichung on your Taiwan itinerary.

If you’re short on time, consider this guided tour of Taichung so you don’t miss out on the city’s unique offerings.

Interactive Nature Exhibits at the World Flora Exposition

Open until the 24 th April 2019, the Taichung World Flora Exposition 2018 -19 is an international event with interactive exhibitions and installations that explore the relationships between the natural world and people. The theme for the exposition is Rediscover GNP: Green, Nature and People.

World Flora Exposition Taichung

The venue is home to many country pavilions with their own interpretations of the theme as well as exhibits around conservation, mindfulness, diverse ecosystems and the many relationships between man and nature. You can read the details here .

While I wasn’t even sure that I wanted to visit, once there I was completely blown away as it was one of the most interesting experiences I had in Taiwan. You can use this resource to plan your visit.

Dinner and Desserts at Hogwarts at Miyahara

My love of ice-cream means that there was just one thing I knew I had to do on our only evening in Taichung, and that was to visit Taichung’s famous Hogwarts-themed specialty ice cream store Miyahara .

Housed in a red-brick heritage building that was built as a clinic in 1927 by Japanese ophthalmologist Miyahara Takeo, and later became the Taichung Health Bureau, only to be abandoned, today Miyahara is a dessert store and restaurant that was designed to look like Hogwarts.

The grand interior, designed by a pastry company that bought and restored the building, is gorgeous and if you’re looking to get a nice dinner in Taichung, (plus amazing dessert), then don’t think twice about visiting Miyahara.

While there’s plenty to buy at the store downstairs in Miyahara (pineapple and sun cakes are just a few of Taiwan’s famous cake-pastry specialties), the upstairs restaurant is great as well. There’s a minimum spend of 380NTD per person, which you’ll spend anyway if you dine here.

We ordered a platter to share and can confirm that everything in it was great- fried squid, charred asparagus, pork sausage, lotus root fritters, and walnut persimmons.

The star of the show, of course, is the ice-cream sundae, where you can choose from flavors like green tea, smoked chocolate, mango, and a host of toppings like cheesecake, cookies, nuts, sprinkles, and what have you. Pure bliss.

Platter at Miyahara

Ice cream sundae at Miyahara

When you can’t keep your eyes open but must have the city’s best ice cream

Miyahara Ice Cream

No. 20號, Zhongshan Road, Central District, Taichung City, Taiwan 400

Where to Stay in Taichung

Stay at the Evergreen Taichung , a luxury modern hotel in Taichung.

There are also various other accommodation options available for every budget.

Day 7: Art, Shopping & All Things Cool in Taipei

As you make your way back to Taipei, you realize that there is just so much to see and do in the city, there really is never a dull moment.

Art in the City at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

As I mentioned earlier, Taipei is home to a few creative parks- these are essentially art and culture hubs with studios, exhibitions, pop-up exhibitions, boutiques, galleries, and all things cool, quirky and hipster in the city.

Songshan Creative Park

I actually found myself in Songshan while looking for a bakery (as you do) that has shut for good. Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is an art district located on the site of a former tobacco factory that was set up during the Japanese colonial rule.

Today, the buildings here house exhibitions, stores, shows, and meeting spaces. Outside you’ll find a lovely Baroque Garden, pond as well as cafés and kiosks selling food and drinks.

Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

No. 133號, Guangfu South Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110

Get a Bubble Tea at Teazzi

A pleasant ten minute walk from Songshan Creative Park, Teazzi is where I finally tried my first bubble tea, and it was great. The House Special Milk Tea (5.50NTD) comes highly recommended and it’s what I got.

It was quite milky, and something like a frappé, only less creamy. There are multiple locations around Taipei, so find one that’s close to you.

Bubble tea at Teazzi

Go Shopping and Eat at Yongkang Street

If you want to go shopping for clothing, shoes, souvenirs, crafts, face and skincare, tea, or anything else, it’s worth heading to Yongkang Street . There are high-end boutiques and budget-friendly stores, and certainly something for everyone.

You’ll also find cosmetics, jewelry, and famous Taiwanese skincare brands. If you’re tired, rest your legs at one of many cafés or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants here.

I’d heard about Vigor Kobo pineapple cakes and sun cakes, among other famous Taiwanese pastry types and got a few boxes as gifts for back home. They were delicious and much appreciated. They have a few branches around Taipei, and there’s one on Yongkang Street as well.

Yongkang Street

Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

Gorge on Delicious Fried Chicken

I don’t know what it is with me and my food priorities when I travel, but somehow food becomes closely intertwined with any and all itineraries and travel guides I chart out.

Well, it was by chance that I read about how Taiwanese fried chicken is a big thing in Taipei, and how it’s so much better than regular KFC-style fried chicken, and I’m so glad that I did.

Don’t ask me why or how, because I was too busy biting into soft and juicy on the inside and crunchy on the outside fried chicken, greasy fingers and all, to focus on the reasons behind why that chicken was so damn good. Maybe this post does a good job of revealing the secrets of Taiwanese fried chicken.

If that description made you hungry and you’re determined to go to the exact place where I had it, then head to the fried chicken place (couldn’t find the English name) next to VVG Action in the basement food court at the Taipei New Horizon Building in Songshan.

Otherwise the fried chicken at Hot-Star (multiple locations around Taipei) also comes highly recommended.

Fried chicken in Taipei

Taipei New Horizon Building

No. 88號, Yanchang Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110

Day 8: Explore Nature, History and Icons in Taipei

Escape into nature at yangmingshan national park.

Yangmingshan National Park , located in Taipei, is one of eight national parks in Taiwan, and is easily accessible from downtown Taipei (a 30-minute drive). There are several parks, forests, hiking trails, waterfalls, and hot springs in the park, and you can explore some and all of these depending on how much time you’ve got.

Cherry blossoms at Yangmingshan National Park

You’re likely to enter through the Visitor Center, and begin your tour at the Yangming Park with gardens, pavilions, streams, a large flower clock, an observation tower, and several beautiful cherry blossoms along the way.

After visiting the park, we did an easy 1km hike to Juansi Waterfall on a beautiful and quiet trail with very few other people. Check their website to find other scenic spots around the national park.

Visit the National Palace Museum

While I’m not crazy about museums, Taipei’s National Palace Museum , home to the world’s largest and greatest collection of Chinese antiquities and art, dating as far back to Neolithic times, is definitely worth a visit.

You’ll find jewelry, sculptures, books, calligraphy, paintings, weapons, ceramics, jade, and other objects of cultural and religious significance spread over four levels.

National Palace Museum

A vast majority of these collections, acquired by Chinese emperors over 8000 years, were part of the Forbidden City’s Palace Museum in Beijing (founded 1925), and include objects from the Ming and Qing dynasties. During the Chinese Civil War, Chiang Kai-shek transported these invaluable works of art to Taiwan, so they wouldn’t fall into the hands of the Communist army.

Free guided tours are available (twice a day) as are audio guides (in English too) for a small fee. The exhibits, some interactive, are interesting- so keep at least two to three hours to get the most out of your visit.

Bear in mind that the exhibitions are rotating (because it wouldn’t be possible to display them all at once), so visit the website to plan your trip and know more about current exhibits.

Taipei National Palace Museum

No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111

Get Up Really High at Taipei 101

Rising up above the city, sometimes into the very clouds that appear over Taipei, Taipei 101 , at 508m is a skyscraper that was the world’s tallest tower from 2004 to 2010 until the Burj Khalifa claimed the title. It was also the world’s tallest green building until 2011.

The skyscraper’s exterior was designed to look like a bamboo stalk (symbolic of learning and growth). Innovative features and construction methods were used to withstand typhoon winds and earthquake tremors- that occur frequently in Taiwan.

The exterior features eight segments of eight floors each- the number eight is associated with abundance, prosperity and good fortune.

Views from Taipei 101

Take in the views from Taipei 101

Access is via the Taipei 101 shopping mall. A high-speed elevator takes you to the observation deck on the 89 th floor in just 40 seconds. There’s an outdoor deck on the 91 st floor and another deck on the 88 th floor.

You can spend as much time as you like, and whether you get clear views of Taipei or dreamy views of clouds over the city, it’s one of Taipei’s top experiences.

No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110

Eat at one of the World’s Top 10 Tables at Din Tai Fung

The Michelin-starred Taiwanese restaurant Din Tai Fung , with its original location in Taipei, was rated one of the top 10 gourmet restaurants in the world and the late Anthony Bourdain said he’d “travel half way round the world to eat dumplings at Din Tai Fung.” I should have kicked myself for not visiting when it opened in Dubai, but well, better late than never.

Just like its worldwide locations (Dubai, Sydney, London etc), there are long queues that wait outside Din Tai Fung, all for the promise of a meal to remember. Inside, chefs dressed in all white expertly roll dough, and wrap dumplings with the speed and precision of the artists that they are, all behind large glass windows.

Din Tai Fung, Taipei

The specialty of the house is xiao long bao- a soup dumpling that comes with various fillings- shrimp, beef, chicken, truffle and pork, shrimp and squash, and vegetarian, as well as chocolate for dessert.

The House Special chili noodles are nothing short of divine, and the fried rice is considered by many to be the best in the world. I don’t think there’s anything on the menu that isn’t good.

Xiao long bao dumplings spicy chili noodles and chocolate dumplings

There are a few locations in Taipei including Taipei 101 and the original one that opened in Xinyi in 1972.

Day Trips from Taipei

This itinerary is just a starting point for the host of incredible experiences that Taiwan offers tourists. From cuisine, art and culture, to adventure and nature, the sheer diversity of things to see and do in the island nation is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

I’m confident that the secret’s going to be out in the next two years, and Taiwan will see a marked surge in tourism. Until then, it’s time to go there before the crowds do.

Practical information

Best time to visit taiwan.

Taiwan has four seasons: Spring (March until May), Summer (June until August), Autumn (September until November) and Winter (December until February). But the best time to visit Taiwan also depends, in part, on your own preferences- if you like cold weather, want to see the cherry blossoms or prefer a mild summer. The one thing we can agree on is that you want to avoid being in Taiwan during typhoon season (July to September).

The average temperature also varies depending on which part of the country you’re in. As we experienced during our trip in mid-February, it is considerably warmer in the south and much colder in the mountains.

Here are the average temperatures and what to expect during Taiwan’s four seasons:

Spring (March until May)

Cool, pleasant weather with temperatures of 15ºC to 26ºC. Bring a light spring jacket.

Summer (June until September)

Hot, sticky and humid weather with plenty of rainfall, thunderstorms and typhoons. Temperatures between 24ºC and 31ºC. Bring umbrellas, a light rain jacket, and breathable fabrics that don’t cling to your skin.

Autumn (October until November)

Less rain and temperatures between 18ºC and 27ºC. Bring a light jacket and umbrella.

Winter (December until February)

Mild and pleasant with very little occasional rain and temperatures between 13ºC

And 21ºC. It can get as low as 6ºC in the mountains- that was the temperature at sunrise in Alishan. Bring a thick jacket with layers that you can zip on and off, depending on where you’re going. I took my trusty Columbia jacket and it served me well- in rainy and cold Taipei, in freezing Alishan, and elsewhere.

Best Time to Visit Taiwan for Cherry Blossoms

Yes, you totally can and should come to Taiwan to see the cherry blossoms, among other things. There’s nothing like it if you can come during the best time to visit Taiwan for cherry blossoms. Expect to see these pretty pink flowers in bloom between early February to late March in most parts of the country, and even until early April in mountain regions like Alishan and Yangmingshan.

Visa for Taiwan

Depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa to visit Taiwan. Some nationalities can get a visa on arrival, others need to get an e-visa and yet others need to apply in person in their own countries. Check your visa eligibility and rules here .

How To Get Around Taiwan

Taiwan has an excellent, easy-to-navigate public transportation system to get around the country. On the west coast, you’re likely to make use of the Taiwan High Speed Railway (HSR) that runs at 300km/h . We took this from Taipei to Kaohsiung, and it was very quick, convenient and comfortable.

Other than that, there are also slower and cheaper regular trains (TRA) that run between major cities.

You can use this site to plan your transport between different cities and towns in Taiwan- jus enter the origin, destination and dates and you’ll see options, schedules and can buy tickets online where possible.

Within cities like Taipei, Kaohsiung and Taichung, travel like the locals and make use of the Mass Rapid Transit system or subway, commonly known as MRT.

Bike-share is also available in major cities with dedicated bike lanes.

It’s also helpful to know that the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle is available to transport tourists to certain places.

I used Uber in all three cities- Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung and it was super affordable, quick and convenient.

Currency in Taiwan

Taiwan currency is NTD or the New Taiwan Dollar. You’ll see this denoted with a $ in most menus- remember that prices quoted with a $ aren’t in USD but in NTD. At the time of writing 1USD= 30.79NTD

Taiwan SIM Card

Buying a  local SIM Card  with fast internet is the second thing I do as soon as I’m in the arrival lounge at the airport of a new city (the first being a bit of currency exchange). It’s super easy to get a  Taiwan SIM Card  at the airport in Taipei.

I bought a  Taiwan 4G SIM card from Chunghwa Telecom  and got a 7-Day package with unlimited internet and 150NTD for local calls and texts. There was excellent connectivity everywhere and the data was fast with 100% coverage. You can actually  pre-order this online  and just pick it up from the Chunghwa Telecom to save time when you arrive.

Wi-Fi in Taiwan

You’ll find Wi-Fi in most cafés and hotels in Taipei- not necessarily in most restaurants (depending on where you are). But it’s easier to  rent your own pocket Wi-Fi  to get unlimited 4G internet on upto 5 devices. You can pick it up and drop it off at the airport- so easy!

Additional Reading

Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Taipei

Best Taipei Night Markets You Should Not Miss

5 Amazing Things to do in Hualien City

Travel Insurance

I trust World Nomads for my travel insurance, and seldom travel without insurance because you never know what might go wrong on the road.

You can buy and claim online , even after you’ve left home. Travel insurance from WorldNomads.com is available to people from 140 countries. It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities .

Tell me, have you been to Taiwan or would you want to go? Tell me what you think of this Taiwan itinerary.  

Disclosure: Taiwan got on my travel wish list late last year, and after seeing photos of its spectacular landscapes, I was certain I’d visit in 2019. Call it the power of manifestation or what you like, but in February, I found myself invited to Taiwan by the Taiwan Tourism Board. All opinions, as always, are honest and independent.  

This post contains affiliate links. If you make any purchases using these links, I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Monday 12th of September 2022

Here we are providing one to one classes were teachers focusing on one student at a time, the classes are taken in a interactive manner We offer classes for all subjects according to the students require. The student can choose the subject they want and also can attend the class at your convenient time and day.https://anglebelearn.com.

Wednesday 6th of April 2022

https://www.gladwingroup.com/interactive-led-flat-panel-display-supreme-9-series.php

Adopt full aluminium alloy panel structure, anodized surface process, ultra-narrow frame, rounded corner design, fashion & beautiful appearance The OPS host module adopts plug structure design, internal Inter standard 80pin interface, without any external power line and signal line, which is convenient for inspection, maintenance and upgrade, and achieves the aesthetic effect of the machine Front side speakers, Prevents noise distortion due to embedding Adopt a high-performance infrared touch technology with anti-blocking and anti-stain functions, and the touch reception will not affect normal writing after blocking at single or multiple infrared transmitting points, interactive led flat panel

taiwanwesee

Saturday 16th of November 2019

I am very glad that you have traveled to Taiwan and have knew us so much. This is a very in-depth and brilliant article. I hope that you will come again someday.^^

Laura Lovette

Monday 15th of July 2019

Wow this is such a detailed itinerary! I've seen so many people go Taiwan this year, and they all loved it. And the food looks incredible. I can't wait to visit one day :) xxx

Friday 28th of June 2019

Hi, I'm planning to go to Taichung next year during the lantern festival? What kind of events happen on the last day? Is there like a closing ceremony or something like that?

• Bosnia + Herzegovina
• Faroe Islands
• Philippines
• South Africa
• French Polynesia
• Solomon Islands
• Work With Me

Taiwan Travel Tips: 24 Essential Things To Know Before You Go

30 May 2020.

Exceptionally beautiful, well organised and unfailingly friendly, Taiwan is a wonderfully easy place to travel.

With spectacular hiking trails and fairytale forests, tastebud-tingling street eats and world-class tea, a rich culture and fascinating history, mindboggling mountains and remote natural hot springs, along with the warmest welcome I’ve ever encountered, my five weeks in Taiwan made for one of my favourite trips of 2019. 

From traveller safety and sticking to your budget to local food and avoiding the crowds, these are my top Taiwan travel tips to help you fall in love with this place just as much as I did. 

* This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

1  |  Download These Useful Apps For Your Trip

From breaking through the language barrier and deciphering streetside menus to figuring out the train network and finding the right hiking trails, these apps will make travelling in Taiwan a whole lot easier and can all be used offline.

Google Translate   |   Normally I just muddle way through any language difficulties with a few key phrases, an awkward smile and plenty of charades, but given many of us won’t be able to read the alphabet here, Google Translate is an absolute lifesaver. Make sure you download the Chinese dictionary before arriving and you’ll be able to use the instant translate option by hovering your phone over any sign or menu. It’s not always entirely accurate, but it’s better than nothing.

Google Maps Offline  |   You can download a map of the entire island of Taiwan offline which is incredibly useful for navigation and includes all train stations, bus stops, MRT routes, restaurants and attractions. Litter your map with stars to keep track of your top destinations.  

Maps.Me  |  While Google Maps is great for cities, Maps.Me is perfect for any hiking adventures. The island is a veritable maze of tiny tracks and many of them are captured on this app. It also often has the Chinese place names written in English characters which can be very useful. 

2  |  You probably won’t need a visa to visit Taiwan

Unlike China which has a complicated visa application process, many nationalities are able to visit Taiwan visa free.

Citizens of Australia, Canada, the USA, the EU and the UK, among others, are able to visit for up to 90 days without a visa, while a number of other nations are eligible to visit visa-free for shorter periods of 14 to 30 days or apply for an e-visa.

Nationals from most countries in South America, Africa and Southern Asia will require a visa. See here for further information.

3  |  Taiwan Is Not Technically A Country

Officially, Taiwan is called the Republic of China and exists as a province of the People’s Republic of China (aka China), but it has many of the hallmarks of an independent nation, including a democratically elected President, military forces and a constitution.

In short, it’s a little complicated.

On the international stage, Taiwan is not widely recognised, in large part because this would severely disrupt any political relationship with China. Taiwan has been barred from having a seat at the UN and for major international events where China is also participating, it is either refused as an independent participant or allowed to participate under the name of ‘Chinese Taipei’, such as in the Olympic Games.

Today, the discussion around Taiwanese independence or unification is a polarising one with tensions escalating in recent months, though surveys show the majority of locals believe leaving things as they are is the best way forward. 

That said, to simplify things I have referred to Taiwan as a country throughout these guides.

READ NEXT:  17 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO DO IN TAIWAN  

4  |  outside of the cities, english is not widely spoken.

The language barrier was definitely something I was concerned about before arriving in Taiwan, especially as I wouldn’t be able to read the language either.

But I really needn’t have worried.

In general, English is not widely spoken, but virtually everyone I met was so wonderfully warm and welcoming that they would go out of their way to help you and if all else failed it was Google Translate to the rescue.

That said, at the very least learning a few basic phrases like ‘Nihao’ or ‘She She’ is always worthwhile .

5  |  You will feel welcomed

‘Welcome to Taiwan!’

This was a phrase I was greeted with countless times during my trip, often accompanied by open arms, a toothy grin, a handshake and the occasional selfie. 

As a blonde-haired, blue-eyed traveller, I never had any hope of blending in in these parts, but I certainly never expected to be welcomed with such genuine warmth at every step of the way.

There was that couple who walked me to the correct bus stop in Taipei when they saw I was visibly lost, the fellow hiker that spent hours chatting about her favourite trails to ensure I got to experience the best of the mountains, the passengers who jumped up without question to help me retrieve my heavy bags off the train and the many, many people who would stop me during the day just to say hello and wish me a pleasant trip. 

Perhaps sweetest of all though was on one of the rare occasions when I had hitched a ride through the mountains with a fellow traveller instead oh waiting several hours for the bus. The couple who had kindly taken us had reached their final destination at a busy viewpoint, but instead of just dropping us by the roadside to continue on our way, they ran around the car park asking every single person if they were heading in our direction. When that failed they stood on the roadside and flagged down each passing car until they found one that would take us.

Of all the things I loved about Taiwan, and there were many, the unwavering kindness in ways both big and small was what left me truly humbled and made the place an absolute joy to explore. This kind of hospitality is not something I’ll be forgetting in a hurry.

6  |  It’s a reasonably affordable destination

Taiwan falls somewhere between expensive Japan and wallet-friendly South East Asia. 

For a five-week trip that mostly involved street food and hostels, along with the odd luxury like a couple of days of diving, a foot massage and a handful of hotel stays thrown in for good measure, my daily budget came out to €32.  

Prices for a hostel dorm bed generally start at around €10 but can be considerably higher in more remote areas like Green Island or Hehuanshan . Popular destinations like Alishan will also command higher rates, especially over weekends and during cherry blossom season. For private rooms, family-run homestays or small guesthouses usually present the best value rather than hotels.  

Street food and local dishes are slightly more expensive than elsewhere in Asia, but munching your way around a night market is unlikely to break the bank (and should not be missed!). 

Local long-distance transport is very reasonably priced and will get you virtually anywhere in the country, while the west coast’s High Speed Rail is a fast and efficient option for anyone not on a tight travel budget. 

GET PLANNING:  HOW TO PLAN THE PERFECT DAY TRIP TO TAROKO NATIONAL PARK

7  |  avoid popular spots on weekends and holidays.

Locals and weekenders absolutely love getting out of the city to explore the countryside and with such astounding natural beauty at every turn, why wouldn’t you.

This does however mean that some of Taiwan’s most beloved spots can become exceptionally crowded on weekends and holidays which can detract somewhat what from their beauty so are best avoided during these periods if you can manage. 

Places that are easily accessible from Taipei, such as Taroko Gorge , Yangmingshan National Park , Jiufen and Shifen, generally receive the most visitors, but destinations that lie further afield and make for an excellent overnight trip ( Sun Moon Lake and Alishan , for example) can also become very busy with visitors. 

Of course, planning your trip around the day of the week isn’t always possible, but if you can, I’d suggest visiting during the week. If weekends are your only option, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and make an early start when you arrive.

8  |  There are many ways to spell things in English

Translating complex Chinese characters phonetically into English words isn’t always straightforward and often leads to places having several different spellings.

The ‘Zh’ sound is one of the most confusing as it is widely used and can also be written using variations of ‘Sh’, ‘Ch’ or ‘J’ characters.

Just know that if it looks vaguely correct and seems to be in the right location, there’s a good chance it’s the same place.

Well, except for Taichung and Taitung, they’re completely different.

9  |  It’s a perfect destination for solo female travel

Travelling to a new destination as a solo female never fails to bring with it a host of questions.

Is it normal for women to be out alone? How conservatively do I need to dress? Is it safe to wander around at night?

Thankfully, I have never felt quite so safe in a place as I did in Taiwan. Everyone I encountered was nothing short of welcoming, extremely kind and respectful. No gawking stares. No catcalling. No creepy whispers as you walk by.

Though I always take the usual precautions when I travel, here I felt comfortable enough to loosen the reigns a little which was wonderfully refreshing and meant I could confidently explore cities alone at night, go hiking solo and even went as far as to hitchhike in the mountains rather than wait for a bus which is something I never normally do.

Taiwan is the highest-ranking nation in Asia and among the top in the world overall when it comes to gender equality and it really shows.

10  |  You’ll Always Find A Bargain Online

For some of Taiwan’s most popular and iconic experiences, you’ll find some excellent deals online on anything from transport to dining out.

If it’s something you’re planning to do anyway, why wait needlessly in a queue or pay more than you need to!

Popular choices include early-bird discounts for the High Speed Rail , skip-the-line access to the Taipei 101 Observatory , pre-ordered meals at the incredibly popular Din Tai Fung , one of Taipei’s best restaurants, or discounted boba milk tea from the always busy Xing Fu Tang . 

For more great deals on transport, tours, foodie adventures and day trips, check here . 

READ NEXT:  THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ALISHAN | TAIWAN’S MAGICAL ANCIENT FOREST

11  |  it’s an incredible destination for hiking, just don’t forget your permit.

For avid hikers and lovers of the outdoors, Taiwan is an absolute dream destination.

From dramatic emerald hills that cascade toward the windswept sea, to dense bamboo forests that feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook, to high alpine peaks that reward you with unparalleled vistas, there’s really no better way to experience Taiwan than with a pair of dusty boots and the trail at your feet.

You’ll find a vast network of hiking trails that crisscross the island and make it incredibly easy to get off the beaten path, and while many are well-marked and free to access, there are a handful of more challenging tracks or those where numbers are restricted that do require you to have a permit.

Some are easy to secure just a few weeks in advance, whereas others involve a slightly complicated application process and need to be applied for months in advance. There are also occasionally two different permits required for a hike – a National Park Entry Permit and Mountain Entry Permit (sometimes called a Police Permit).

If you’re a keen hiker hoping to head into the mountains, I’d highly, highly recommend locking your plans in early so that you can acquire the appropriate paperwork on time and avoid being disappointed.

Popular hiking trails that will require a permit are the Zhuilu Old Trail in Taroko Gorge , Yushan, Taiwan’s highest peak, and Shei Pa National Park which is famous for its high ridge trail.

17 Incredible Things To Do In Taiwan

Cycling Sun Moon Lake – Is It Worth It?

What To Do In Jiufen + Jinguashi | Lanterns, Mountains + Pretty Streets

4 Beautiful Hiking Trails From Taipei

54 Photos That Will Make You Want To Get Your Butt To Taiwan NOW!

Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail: An Easy Half-Day Hike From Taipei

Taroko Gorge: How To Plan The Perfect Day Trip + Essential Tips For Your Visit

A Short Guide To Shizhao + Fenchihu | Two Serene Alternatives For Visiting Alishan

The Ultimate Guide To Alishan | Taiwan’s Magical Ancient Forest Area

Beitou Hot Springs: How To Handle A Traditional Taiwanese Bath Experience Like A Pro

How To Get To Kenting National Park From Anywhere In Taiwan

Teapot Mountain: A Fantastic Day Hike In Northern Taiwan

Hehuanshan: A Comprehensive Guide To Taiwan’s Alpine Paradise (That Doesn’t Require A Permit!)

12  |  get an easycard as soon as you arrive.

Do yourself a favour and pick up an EasyCard as soon as you arrive in Taiwan.

They’re available at the airport and convenience stores like 7-11 and Family Mart and can be used on public transport throughout the country, often giving a reduced fare.

Most importantly, it will also save you from having to rummage around for the correct change every time you need to jump on the metro or bus.

The card itself is $100 (€3) and you can top up your balance as needed. Then, simply tap on and off for every trip.

If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, you also can order your EasyCard in advance for collection at the airport here . When I bought mine in Taipei, it was cash only so buying it in advance means you can collect your card directly from the counter rather than searching for an ATM in your post-flight sleep-deprived state.

13  |  Public Transport Is Excellent

Public transport in Taiwan is efficient and widespread making travelling across the country a breeze. 

In Taipei, the metro or MRT is frequent, cheap and easy to use, while the vast web of local trains and buses make a number of day trip destinations in northern Taiwan easily accessible. Within other major cities, buses will be your bread and butter of getting around.

For travel further afield, local trains ( TRA ) are cheaper, slower and more frequent than the high-speed trains and cover a much wider network in Taiwan, travelling up and down both sides of the country and often rewarding you with incredible scenery along the way, particularly on the mountainous east coast. Check fares and timetables here .

Travelling down the west coast only, the Taiwan High Speed Rail ( THSR ) runs between Taipei and Kaohsiung’s Zuoying Station in just 2 hours. Though they’re quite a bit more expensive than the slower local trains, they’re incredibly efficient for anyone short on time and offer generous discounts for multi-day tickets and early bird purchases (sometimes up to 35%). Check the timetable here or get a discount for advance bookings here .

Taiwan’s mountainous heart is the only place that is somewhat challenging to reach. For popular destinations, there are generally dedicated ‘tourist shuttles’ or long-distance buses though services are often infrequent and reliable timetables hard to find. Your guesthouse should be able to point you in the right direction.

DON’T MISS:  WHAT TO DO IN ENCHANTING JIUFEN + JINGUASHI

14  |  take care when renting a scooter.

Travelling by scooter is a way of life for locals and a rite of passage for travellers in virtually all of Asia. But while many countries may turn a blind eye to unlicensed and inexperienced foreigners, Taiwan generally takes a stricter stance.

Officially, you are required to have either a motorbike license or an International Drivers License that covers motorbikes. A regular driver’s license isn’t good enough.

That said, there are exceptions and not every operator is stringent in following regulations, but after a series of tragic accidents involving tourists over the years, enforcing of the rules is becoming more common.

The good news is that you’ll virtually always find electric scooters available for rent alongside the usual petrol variety, and while these tend to be slightly more expensive and slower, they can be hired without an official license as well as being better for the environment.

15  |  Prices increase during weekends and flower season

Another darn good reason to avoid travel on the weekends is that as Friday and Saturday roll around, it’s not uncommon for accommodation prices to double, capitalising on the many of weekend tourists heading out to explore more of this beautiful island.

Destinations that become wrapped up in cherry blossom fever can also command far higher prices than usual during peak times.

If you’re on a tight budget, plan ahead and try to avoid key tourist areas during these times, or find accommodation that won’t hit you with a price hike.

HIT THE TRAIL:  EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING HEHUANSHAN

16  |  there’s a great hostel scene.

As a budget traveller, you’ll have no issue finding affordable, high-quality hostels in every major city in Taiwan.

From modest and homely hideaways to trendy well-designed spaces, most hostels have embraced the capsule-style of bed with a light, power socket and shelf, and a roll down blind or curtain to offer an extra level of privacy.

Many hostels are also surprisingly roomy, with some even providing double dorm beds as the norm, making it far too easy to escape into your own little bubble at the end of a busy day, separate from the noisy packers and late-night light-turner-on-erers.

Search for your Taiwan accommodation here.

17  |  Don’t Miss The Night Markets

Tightly packed bodies jostle between food stalls, smoke billows into narrow laneways, large woks simmer away with century-old recipes and intoxicating aromas fill the air.

You can’t possibly visit Taiwan and not spend at least an evening or two absorbed in the clamour of its night markets. Aside from being a feast for the senses, they’re one of the best places to sample Taiwan’s street food and local delicacies. 

Taiwanese cuisine is very much a melting pot derived from various ethnicities with Japanese and Chinese flavours being prominent, alongside the influence of indigenous and Hakka communities. These were some of my favourite dishes.  

Beef Noodle Soup   |    Taiwan’s national dish, this hearty concoction of braised beef, noodles and a flavour-packed spiced broth is one not to miss.  

Dumplings   |   Steam ’em, fry ’em, stick ’em in a soup, there are a hundred different ways to enjoy the humble dumpling, all of them delicious and sure to put you into a blissful food coma many times during your trip. The standard filling contains pork, but there are numerous restaurants that offer veggie options as well.   

Scallion Pancakes   |    This was the very first thing I ate in Taiwan and I’m still craving one all these months later! A flaky, crispy roti-style flatbread woven with finely chopped green onions, this simple street snack can be found across Taiwan and is so damn good. You can choose your own fillings like cheese, smoked chicken or peppered beef, but my go-to was fried egg, Thai basil and spicy sauce. Yum!

Peanut Ice Cream Roll   |   A wafer-thin crepe filled with a generous sprinkle of shaved peanut brittle, vibrant fruity ice cream and garnish of fresh coriander (cilantro). The lot is bundled into a small burrito and is a textural sensation. Some stalls try to skip over the coriander bit, but in my humble opinion, this is where the real genius lies.        

Stinky Tofu   |    Ok, so this wasn’t exactly one of my favourites, but you kinda can’t leave Taiwan without giving it a go. While it’s an acquired taste and the stench can be… overwhelming – it’s certainly a dish that you’ll smell long before you see – it’s also one of Taiwan’s most beloved delicacies. The tofu is prepared in a brine of fermented milk, vegetables, meat and aromatics where it may sit for months before being served.

Taiwanese Hamburgers  |    A fluffy steamed bun stuffed with sticky pork belly and some greenery, these tasty handfuls will leaving you wanting just another bite. Though this is the typical version, many shops also offer veggie options with either mushroom, tofu or egg as the main filling.      

There are dozens of night markets scattered around Taiwan, so be sure to arrive with an empty belly, wander slowly and munch your way through all the things! 

18  |  Bring a set of reusable cutlery

Between the chaotic night markets, ancient hole-in-the-wall eateries and fantastic sit-down restaurants, dining out in Taiwan is an experience in itself.

Unfortunately, many places prioritise convenience over all else and will often only provide you with disposable single-use plastic cutlery, even if you’re eating in.

Instead of churning your way through what will literally be hundreds of unnecessary and completely avoidable pieces of plastic by the end of your trip, pack a set of reusable utensils in your day bag ready to be used at any occasion.

I carryied around a pair of chopsticks, a metal fork and a tablespoon in my handbag and used them on a daily basis. If you’re a lover of takeaway drinks, adding a thick reusable straw and/or a collapsible cup is also a good idea.

GET HIKING:  A COMPLETE GUIDE TO YANGMINGSHAN NATIONAL PARK

19  |  boba tea is life.

I had my first ever boba milk tea on my second day in Taipei and it was love at first sip.

So, naturally, I dove straight into making up for lost time. 

Though now popular across the world, this delectably creamy and deliciously refreshing drink originated in Taiwan and you can’t walk a block here without passing several tea shops. Some specialise in green tea and fruit infusions, some focus on flavoured tapioca pearls and others strictly serve up the milky varieties. 

They’re all well-loved, they’re all found everywhere and the only thing for it is to try them all for yourself. 

My favourite was the signature brown sugar boba milk tea from perennially popular Xing Fu Tang. The mix of luxuriously creamy tea and not-too-sweet sticky caramel tapioca balls had me craving one every single day.

20  |  It’s not the best for vegetarians, but you can make it work

Full disclosure, I’m not a vegetarian, but I do try to limit my meat consumption to just a couple of times a week. In Taiwan, however, that wasn’t always easy with night markets being particularly challenging.

All major cities have dedicated vegetarian restaurants, but in small towns and mountains villages you may need to plan ahead.

In case your body is crying out for a vitamin kick and a healthy dose of fresh produce which the cuisine decidedly lacks, be sure to stock up with everything you’ll need for hiking and road snacks in the city as supplies in the countryside are often limited.

21  |  You’ll probably end up eating at a convenience store (and that’s totally fine!)

With so many delicious street eats to choose from, it may sound a little nutty to dine in a 7-11, but chances are it will happen at least once during your trip.

I had read a lot about the ubiquitous convenience stores before arriving in Taiwan and had quietly scoffed thinking I would never actually eat there while I had one of the world’s best foodie destinations on my doorstep.

Turns out, these shops are actually pretty bloody, well, convenient, and I, like many, many other travellers ended up eating here on more than one occasion.

Of course, sampling local delicacies from unassuming hole-in-the-wall eateries is an experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Taiwan, but when you’re running late for the train, are craving a familiar dish (hello green curry!), or just need a cheap eat in an expensive tourist town, these stores can be a lifesaver.

They’re always an affordable and reliable choice and I also heard from several vegetarian travellers that in smaller towns where veggie restaurants were limited, these were often the best option.

22  |  Typhoon Season is June to October

Typhoons generally hit Taiwan between June and October when a deluge of rain is dumped across the country accompanied by strong winds.

Surprisingly, this is peak tourist season and one of the most popular times for travel across the region, but expect to be met by gloomy skies, frequent rainy days and hot, humid conditions.

DON’T MISS:  THE BEST THINGS TO DO AT THE DREAMY SUN MOON LAKE  

23  |  when to go petal peeping.

Cherry blossom fever has become a global phenomenon in recent years and Taiwan is no exception. But along with these delicate white florals, the country also plays host to a number of other blooms that attract hoards of visitors to witness the landscapes erupting in a riot of colour.

With flower festivals in full swing, these tend to be the busiest time of year for certain regions so be sure to plan accordingly.

Cherry Blossoms  |   Springtime means cherry blossoms! In Yangmingshan National Park , blooms can arrive as early as February usually peaking by early March, while the higher altitude of Alishan means a later season between March and April. Other popular spots for cherry blossoms include Wuling Farm in the heart of the mountains and around Tianyuan Temple in New Taipei.

Rhododendrons  |  Next up on the flower enthusiast calendar is the rhododendron season where thousands of tiny florals unfurl across Taiwan’s landscapes and high mountains peaks. Taroko National Park and Hehuanshan are popular places to see the blooms with the peak viewing period lasting from April to June.

Daylilies  |   Arriving in late summer, golden daylilies blanket the lush plateau of Liushishishan or Sixty Stone Mountain that rises from the vast checkered plains of the East Rift Valley . Visit between August and September for the best of the blooms.

24  |  The Best Time To Visit Taiwan

Between the monsoonal rains, cherry blossom fever and oppressive summer mugginess, it can be hard to determine when the best time to visit Taiwan actually is.

While summer is when tourism booms across the country, the searing heat, crowds and high chance of storms mean this isn’t an ideal time to plan your trip.

Anytime between late autumn and spring are far more pleasant when you’ll be welcomed with comfortable temperatures, fewer visitors and low season prices for accommodation and tours. The only downside is that some tour operators or transport routes to popular summer destinations may not be running at full capacity.

Avid hikers should prepare for chilly conditions in the mountains outside of summer, while flower enthusiasts should consider visiting in spring when much of Taiwan bursts into colour.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

©Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Generous like its 23 million people, Taiwan offers wondrous vistas, lively traditions and a culture as luxuriant as Jade Mountain on a sunny day.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

A true hidden gem, this private museum has a small but exceptional collection of sculpture and antiques by mid-19th- to 20th-century Japanese artists who…

National Palace Museum

Home to the world's largest and arguably finest collection of Chinese art, this vast hoard covers treasures in painting, calligraphy, statuary, bronzes,…

Longshan Temple

Ximending & Wanhua

Founded in 1738 by Han immigrants from Fujian, this temple has served as a municipal, guild and self-defence centre, as well as a house of worship. These…

Dihua Street

This former 'Centre Street' has long been known for its Chinese medicine shops, fabric market and lively Lunar New Year sundry market. It has attracted…

Towering above the city like the gigantic bamboo stalk it was designed to resemble, Taipei 101 is impossible to miss. At 508m, Taipei 101 held the title…

Grand Mazu Temple

This lively temple once served as the palace of Ning Jin, the last king of the Ming dynasty. If you wish to confirm visually that a king's status is lower…

Tianliao Stone Temple

Tianliao Stone Temple is a fantastical, Gaudi-esque interpretation of a Taoist temple by Southeast Asian migrant workers. The 500 men had been hired to…

National Human Rights Museum

This former detention centre, court and jail was where political prisoners were incarcerated and tried during the White Terror period (1947–87). The…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 15 best experiences you can have in taiwan.

Nanyao Temple

Western Taiwan

Located 2km south of Changhua Train Station, this remarkable temple is one of the stops on the Mazu Pilgrimage. The distinctive character of the complex…

Besides the very tasty and varied craft brews on tap, what makes this place extra special is the outdoor rooftop seating with royal views of Taipei 101…

Alien Art Centre

A remarkable museum in a unique location. From the '50s to the '70s this white building was a hostel for young men departing for compulsory military…

Taroko Gorge

Taroko National Park

This 18km marble-walled gorge is Taroko National Park's crown jewel. It's a must-see attraction whether you're hiking its trails, peering at its…

Water Fairy Temple

Hidden inside a market named after itself, Shuixian Temple (literally 'Water Fairy Temple') is a far cry from the days when it was not only a place of…

Official God of War Temple

This is the oldest and most impressive temple in Taiwan dedicated to Guandi (Guan Gong), a Han-dynasty general deified as the God of War. He is the patron…

Guomao Community

Dramatic residential blocks with curved facades encircle a diaspora community in the Guomao area. The dozen-or-so 12-storey buildings were constructed for…

Beitou Hot Spring Museum

Built in 1913 as the Beitou Public Baths, this handsome building is a copy of the bathhouses in Shizuokaken Idouyama in Japan. It is also a good example…

Story House of Naval Base Zuoying

In a compound next to Taiwan's largest naval base, this small museum pays tribute to Zuoying's strong military heritage. By means of relics, photos,…

Fu Wan Chocolate

Pingtung County

Cacao orchard, boutique, and hotel in one, Fu Wan makes fabulous, (mostly) tree-to-bar chocolate that's bagged multiple laurels at the International…

Jibei Sand Tail

Penghu Islands

Those desert island paradise photos you probably saw on Penghu's promotion brochures and websites were most likely taken at Jibei Sand Tail, a dazzling…

Former Japanese Navy Fongshan Radio Station

This mysterious national relic in Fengshan was a Japanese naval radio station that later became an interrogation facility under the Republic of China,…

A handsome modern fort with Qing dynasty foundations that used to guard the northern entrance to Kaohsiung Harbour. From the top of the barracks and the…

Tainan Art Museum

Both buildings of the Tainan Art Museum are now open – this one (Building 1), the former Tainan City Police Station raised in the Japanese era; and the…

Confucius Temple

Built in 1666 by the son of Ming loyalist Zheng Chenggong (Koxinga),Taiwan's first Confucian temple and official school is quiet, dignified and coloured…

Hayashi Department Store

This art deco department store from the 1930s has been so beautifully restored that it's worth going in just to ascend the sweeping staircase, peer…

Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines

There are currently 16 recognised indigenous tribes in Taiwan, and the exhibits at this private museum cover the belief systems, festivals, geographic…

Wind God Temple

Nature-worship temples are hard to come by, which makes this one dedicated to the God of Wind unique. The small structure was originally part of an…

Bao'an Temple

Recipient of a Unesco Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for both its restoration and its revival of temple rites and festivities, Bao'an Temple (also called…

The neoclassical-style Land Bank dates from 1928. Japanese architects were heavily influenced by western ideas at the time and neoclassical revival was a…

National Museum of Prehistory

This hi-tech and engaging if occasionally disorientating museum charts Taiwan’s geological birth and human prehistory as well as introducing the island's…

Choose Chius

This is where Taiwan's first cacao grower, Mr Chiu, and his son run their restaurant and chocolate-making facility. They're the only Taiwanese chocolate…

Chihkan Towers

This old fort is a splendid place to roam around, or to enjoy an outdoor concert on weekends. However, only the foundation is the original. Chihkan has…

King of Medicine Temple

A foreboding temple dedicated to the King of Medicine (sometimes erroneously translated as 'Drug Lord'), the first of its kind in Taiwan. It faces the…

Penghu Aquarium

This large, family-friendly experience is home to an engrossing collection of living sea life, from a rescued three-legged turtle and magical family of…

City God Temple

When you enter the temple, look up for the two large abacuses used to calculate whether you have done more good than bad in life; check out the most…

National Museum of Taiwan Literature

This serious and excellent museum details the development of Taiwanese literature from the time of the pre-Han indigenous peoples to the modern era…

Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts

Set in a large park, this wonderful museum specialises in the works of Taiwanese artists, in particular, painters, sculptors, and installation and digital…

Shennong Street

Cafes, art galleries, fashion boutiques and B&Bs have flowered in the hub of Tainan's former Five Canals area, taking full advantage of the long, narrow,…

Cijin Island

This narrow island that acts as a buffer to the harbour and extends down the city coastline makes for a lovely day trip from the mainland. The main…

Tainan Art Museum Bldg 2

Created by Japanese architect and Pritzker Prize–winner Ban Shigeru, Building 2 of the Tainan Art Museum has a dozen galleries spread over five floors…

Military Dependants' Village Museum

Four houses of a military dependants' village have been restored and turned into a quaint museum. Besides exhibits on the KMT retreat from China and the…

Miaokou Night Market

Northern Taiwan

One of the most famous night markets in Taiwan, Miaokou's moreish mouthfuls are the main reason to find yourself in the rainy port city of Keelung, unless…

Anping Fort

Behind the Mazu Temple, the fort was a stronghold of Dutch power until its 1661 capture by Koxinga after a nine-month battle. Most of it has been…

Great South Gate

There used to be 14 city gates in Tainan and a city wall spreading several kilometres. This old gate is the only one of the four remaining gates that…

Anping Old Streets

To the right of the Anping Fort entrance (with your back to the fort), you’ll find some of the oldest streets in Taiwan. As you wander about, look for…

Koxinga's Shrine

This shrine was built in the Qing dynasty, but its roots date back to a shrine commemorating Ming loyalist Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong) in the 1660s. The…

Altar of Heaven

Tainan families have been coming here for generations on the 1st and 15th of every lunar month to pray to the supreme Taoist entity, the Jade Emperor. The…

Tianhou Temple

This celebrated 17th-century Matsu temple sports high, sweeping swallowtail eaves and a wealth of gorgeous Chaozhou-style woodcarvings, mostly from a 1922…

Lukang Old Street

Lukang's old commercial hub, Yaolin and Butou Sts, is now a protected heritage zone. The narrow, century-old lanes are worth checking out for their red…

Eastern Taiwan & Taroko National Park

Green Island's windswept northeast corner was completely out of bounds for much of the 20th century, occupied by a large prison camp. Here, political…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From soaking in hot springs to learning about Indigenous culture, there's plenty to do in Taiwan. Try our favorite 15 experiences to get you started.

Things to Know

Tips on everything from trip planning to manners in Taiwan – from a Taipei resident of seven years.  

Transportation

Trains, shuttle buses... and chauffeurs? Here are our best tips for navigating Taiwan.

Visa Requirements

Read everything you need to know about securing a visa to visit Taiwan, a land of fabulous food, stunning hikes, delightful beaches and much more.

Money and Costs

Want to see Taiwan but traveling on a budget? Take advantage of free attractions and festivals, inexpensive public transport and exceptional hiking.

Best Road Trips

Drive along scenic landscapes, historic villages and cliffside highways on the top nine road trips in Taiwan.

Latest stories from Taiwan

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Wildlife & Nature

Feb 8, 2024 • 6 min read

This historic narrow-gauge railway whisks riders 7000ft up to a misty mountaintop forest.

Oct 29, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 26, 2023 • 8 min read

Oct 25, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 23, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 23, 2023 • 10 min read

Oct 21, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 19, 2023 • 12 min read

Oct 19, 2023 • 3 min read

Oct 18, 2023 • 7 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Taiwan

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Taiwan with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Taiwan and beyond

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

36 Must-Visit Attractions in Taiwan

Visitors to Taiwan are spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do and places of incredible natural beauty to visit on the island – with so many attractions, it’s hard to figure out what to see. Let us do the hard work for you, with our list of the most beautiful tourist spots in Taiwan.

1. taipei 101.

2. National Palace Museum

3. taroko gorge.

Park, Shrine

5. Sun Moon Lake

Natural Feature

7. Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

Buddhist Temple

8. Shilin Night Market

9. yangmingshan geysers, 10. longshan temple.

11. Rainbow Village

12. chiang kai-shek memorial hall.

Memorial, Building, Park

13. Kenting Street

14. fo guang shan buddha museum, 15. fort zeelandia, 16. the rocks of yehliu geopark.

17. The Taiwan Black Bear

18. jiufen gold mines.

Historical Landmark, Museum

19. Enjoy a wild hot spring

Swimming Pool

Yushan National Park

Another of the most beautiful national parks in Taiwan , Yushan National Park is the setting for the country’s tallest mountain along with several other picturesque peaks such as Sanqingshan.

Maolin National Scenic Area

South of Kaohsiung lies the region known as Maolin National Scenic Area. This is where you’ll find Purple Butterfly Valley, the wintering home for a million Euploeini butterflies. An incredible sight to behold if you’re lucky enough to arrive at the right time of the year.

Miramar ferris wheel

Located in the Miramar Entertainment Park, the Miramar ferris wheel dominates the local skyline. And with very few tall buildings to obstruct the scenery, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

One of Taiwan’s most popular weekend trips is a trip to the archipelago of Penghu. This sandy tropical paradise has plenty of beaches scattered throughout its islands and is a must for seafood lovers.

Chimei Museum

This private museum was established by the Chimei corporation in 1992 but moved to its current location in 2014 and contains a large collection of Western art, musical instruments, and weapons. Its design is heavily influenced by European architecture, making it one of a kind in Taiwan.

Fulong beach

While Taiwan is not quite a go-to surfing destination like Bali or Hawaii, there are still some great spots around the island that boast waves all year round. One such spot is Fulong beach which is also a popular destination for day-trippers from Taipei keen to spend some time on the sand. As it is on the Northeast coast, Fulong gets some great swells throughout the year but in particular from May to October, just pay attention to the weather as this also coincides with typhoon season.

Xinmending shopping district

One of the coolest neighborhoods in Taipei, Ximending is known as the place to be for the younger generation. But that doesn’t mean tourists can’t also enjoy the scores of shops selling everything from hats to anime figures. A great place to grab an alternative kind of souvenir.

Everyone loves a good sing song but it Taiwan they take it to a whole new level. There’s no need to worry about bothering others with your renditions of the latest pop tunes as in the local Karaoke Television (KTV) clubs you get a private soundproofed room that even has its own bathroom. Fancy something to eat or drink? Pick up the phone, and the wait staff will bring it right in.

Attend a cultural festival

The people of Taiwan love a good celebration, and as a result have a pretty impressive calendar of festivities throughout the year. In spring you have Penghu Ocean Fireworks Festival , Baosheng Cultural Festival and the Bunun Tribe’s Ear Shooting Festival. Come summer it’s all about Taiwan International Balloon Festival , Fulong Sand Sculpting Festival, Dragon Boat Festival and Keelung mid-summer Ghost Festival . In autumn you have Sun Moon Lake Swimming Carnival , Yunlin International Puppets Arts Festival and National Yimin Festival, while winter welcomes iconic lantern festivals, Christmasland and the Lunar New Year. Read our guide to the best festivals in Taiwan and plan your trip accordingly.

Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms

While Japan is often the go-to tourist spot for cherry blossoms , not many people realize that Taiwan is actually a great place to witness the yearly blossoming. The island is full of cherry blossom trees and you need only go to a local park to find yourself surrounded by these beautiful trees. But perhaps one of the best locations to take in the blossoms is Sun Moon Lake . Here there are hundreds of the trees throughout the area making for some incredible photo ops. March and April are usually the best time of year to see the trees in full bloom.

The Most Unusual Things to do in Taiwan

Go zorbing in kenting.

There are many ways to descend a hill, but one of the most unusual has to be in what can only be described as an inflatable hamster ball. Zorbing down hills in Kenting is a thing – and it’s huge fun if you don’t suffer from motion sickness.

Play with some sheep

OK, while visiting a farm may not initially seem unusual, Qing Jing Farm in Nantou is a little different. Here you can wander around the farm (which is located in stunning surroundings, by the way) and play with the sheep. They are free to roam the mountainside, and you are free to accompany them, stroke them and maybe take a selfie with them!

Eat some penis-shaped goodies

Phallic images and symbols are quite prevalent throughout the island, but it’s the penis waffle that has really captured the imagination of a nation. Head to any night market, and the chances are that someone somewhere is selling a penis waffle and more often than not there will be a queue of locals waiting to take some very NSFW photos with them. Taiwanese people certainly know how to have fun.

Buy betel nuts from a scantily-clad lady

It’s the only place in the world where you will see ladies dressed in skimpy clothing selling betel nuts on the side of the road. The betel nut girls of Taiwan are a bit of a contentious issue, as some politicians feel that they are shameful, while most of the general population consider them a harmless custom. You’ll have to head out of Taipei City to see them though, as they are not allowed to sell within the capital city’s limits.

Go paragliding in Wanli

Not something that many would expect to find just outside of Taipei but it’s just a short bus ride to Wanli where local paragliding clubs take tourists up for tandem rides around the bay. Kitted out with a GoPro, thrill seekers can record their trip to prove to the folks back home that they really did it.

Visit a haunted prison

Green Island’s Bagua Building was once home to political prisoners, and it’s said that during the White Terror period between 1949 and 1987 many of these prisoners died in most unpleasant ways. Locals say their spirits haunt the buildings and tourists jump at the opportunity to visit the abandoned buildings at night.

Have a sleepover in an aquarium

The National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium have come up with a novel way to allow visitors to enjoy the fish after the building has shut down. They allow a limited number of guests to sleep in various sections of the aquarium each night. Imagine waking up to the sight of a shark swimming overhead. Pretty magical.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

An Art Lover's Guide to Taipei

See & Do

Travel-starved tourists are taking fake flights in taiwan.

Guides & Tips

When is the best time of year to visit taichung.

Culture Trip Wishlist: 5 Cities for Historical Tourism in 2019

The Top 10 Things to Do in Taipei, Taiwan

Food & Drink

The best taiwanese desserts you need to try .

The Most Interesting and Historic Landmarks in Taiwan

A Guide to Cijin Island, Taiwan

How To Spend a Perfect Week in Taiwan

Experiences You Can Only Have in Taiwan

Sample the Best Tea in the World With Culture Trip

Architecture

Taipei's newest arts venue has an incredible spherical concert hall, culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1316265
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

A 2024 Taiwan Travel Guide for Planning Your Trip

Last updated on Apr. 10, 2024 by Nick Kembel

Taiwan is a small island nation that packs a serious punch. At only 36,193 km², it is about the size of Vancouver Island in my native Canada, but home to a staggering 23.9 million people.

Do not be fooled by its compact size, however. There are many reasons to visit Taiwan : the tallest mountains in Northeast Asia, rich history & culture, welcoming locals, some of the best night markets and street food in the world – the list goes on. To get a better idea, see my ever-growing list of things to do in Taiwan .

I’ve lived in Taiwan for over 10 years. I’m married to a Taiwanese, and my two kids were born and raised in Taiwan. I’ve written articles about Taiwan for CNN, National Geographic Traveller, Discover Taipei, and Taiwan Travel Magazine, as well as my book, Taiwan in the Eyes of a Foreigner , which has sold more than 7000 copies.

This Taiwan travel guide links out to all of my most useful articles for planning a Taiwan trip. Here on my Taiwan travel blog, Spiritual Travels, you’ll find some of the most comprehensive Taiwan travel information Taiwan tourism details available in English online, all based on years of on-the-ground research. 

Let the below be your personal guide to traveling in Taiwan. I’ll be covering a wide variety of topics below, so use the table of contents to jump to the info you need! If you prefer Q&A format, you can find all the same info in these FAQs about Taiwan .

Table of Contents

Travel restrictions and visas.

As of October 13, 2022, Taiwan is totally open for travel. All COVID-related  travel restrictions  are finished.  That brought to an end the 938 days total that Taiwan’s borders were closed to some or all international tourists!

Currently, you just need to find out if your country is eligible for visa-free entry  (most are), and for how many days. If you need a visa for Taiwan, or want to stay for longer than the visa-free period, you’ll need to apply at the Taiwan office in your country before coming. 

Besides the visa, there are no special forms, tests, vaccines (these were never needed) for entering Taiwan. You just need to fill in the normal arrival card when you arrive, or do it online before you come. Note that some people have reported not receiving an email confirmation after filling in the online form, so you may want to just do it when you arrive in Taiwan. You can stay in any hotel or accommodation you want, including hostels (these weren’t allowed until March 20, 2023). 

The outdoor mask mandate ended in late 2022 and the indoor mask mandate ended in early 2023. Now, you only need to wear masks in medical facilities in Taiwan. However, many locals are still wearing them in public.

Following the April 2024 Hualien Earthquake , Taroko Gorge in Hualien is totally closed to visitors for an estimated 6 months to 1 year. Everywhere else in Taiwan is open as normal and fine to visit. Here’s my list of things you can still do in Hualien besides Taroko Gorge .

If you ever have any questions about anything related to traveling in Taiwan, you can call the 24-hour English tourist hotline at 0800-011765 (from outside Taiwan dial 886-800-011765). For COVID-specific questions, dial 1922 (from outside Taiwan dial 886-800-001922). 

A Guide to Taiwan’s Quarantine Hotels and COVID Travel Restrictions

Taiwan travel planning group.

The absolute best place you can go for any questions about planning your Taiwan trip is my free Facebook group, Taiwan Travel Planning .

Literally any question you have about traveling in Taiwan or planning your Taiwan trip will be answered within 1-2 days by me or other members of the group. I’m also happy to look over your itinerary and give you suggestions. Because I do spend a lot of time every day in the group answering questions, I’ve created this Buy Me a Coffee account for anyone who wants to say thanks (my readers requested this!)

Take a Tour or DIY Travel?

The main purpose of this page, my website, and my Facebook group is to help you plan a DIY trip to Taiwan. Taiwan is an incredibly safe and easy country to travel around. However, this does require some advance planning, especially as trains and hotels in popular destinations in Taiwan often sell out. Generally, Taiwan is not a very suitable country for just showing up and figuring it out once you get there. Even more so since COVID, advance bookings for almost everything are the norm. 

If you’re looking for a luxury, fully customized tour of Taiwan, I recommend Life of Taiwan . Their team of experts are some of the most knowledgeable in the industry. They provide personalized tea, food, cultural, or family tours of Taiwan and put you up in some of the country’s most exquisite hotels. If you contact them, please let them know that Nick sent you over!

If you’re in a rush and just want to see the best of Taiwan in a short period, I recommend this Taiwan 5-day tour . It doesn’t include Taipei, which is best visited in a day or two on your own before or after the tour.

What most visitors to Taiwan do, however, is plan their trip on their own. The country’s amazing TRA train (round-island) and High Speed Rail (down the west coast from Taipei to Kaohsiung) systems are actually faster than driving. 

Then, when you get to your destination city, you can hire drivers for the day or go on guided day trips only when necessary. This is a very common approach, and there are numerous popular day trips and drivers available on Klook (sign up with this link for a TWD 100 credit in your account). You’ll find that I recommend Klook tours, drivers, car/scooter rentals, discounted attraction tickets, train tickets, and more throughout my Taiwan articles. There are many good deals on there, so you can save a lot of money by using the platform for planning your Taiwan trip.

And for truly DIY or budget travelers, you can certainly do it all on your own, especially with all the articles you’ll find on my website, covering how to visit almost every corner of Taiwan.

Renting a car is also a great option – read my tips for driving in Taiwan here and why I rented my car with Klook .

One good idea is to try one of these free Taipei waking tours on Day 1, then take it on your own from there!

Before Your Trip: Flights, Insurance, Apps, Guidebooks

If you’re coming from a country in Asia, there are numerous budget flights to Taiwan. I’ve prepared this list of the cheapest budget flights to Taiwan .

I’ve tried many different flight websites for finding long haul flights to Taiwan (I live in Canada). My two favorites are Kiwi.com and WayAway . I usually try both these sites when booking my Taiwan flights. They are often (but not alway) cheaper than booking directly with the airlines.

What I like about Kiwi.com is special features like searching not only your departure point but other cities nearby and being able to enter “anywhere” as a destination, and “anytime” as a flying time. For flexible travelers, this allows you to find the cheapest possible flights and dates without searching a million times. Unlike other aggregate flight sites, Kiwi includes budget airlines (many of which fly to Taipei!) and routes combining multiple airlines that are not affiliated.

WayAway is an even newer site and is now my favorite. Like Kiwi, it includes budget airlines, plus it displays awesome calendars showing the price of flights on every day. But the really special feature on WayAway, which will appeal to frequent travelers, is WayAway Plus. Basically, for a small annual fee, you can get cashback (like real cash, deposited to your account) not just for your flights but also any hotels you book through their system. Sign up with this link and you’ll get 10% off WayAway Plus !

Having said that, there are benefits to going with the airline directly, such as being able to easily contact them when needed. rather than going through a third party. China Airlines and Eva Airlines (the one with the Hello Kitty planes!) are two of Taiwan’s largest carriers.

For travel insurance , it’s pretty much a must nowadays. I recommend SafetyWing  or Insubuy . Find more details about why in my guide to choosing travel insurance for Taiwan .

Which apps should you download for Taiwan? I’ve got you covered in this guide to the best Taiwan apps for travelers.

Last but not least, I may be old school, but I still love using travel guidebooks for planning my Taiwan trips. My favorite is and always has been the Taiwan Lonely Planet (I have about 5 different issues of it). I also recommend the Bradt Taiwan , written by long-term Taiwan resident Steven Crook. He also co-authored this amazing book covering the history of Taiwanese food, which I highly recommend.

Moving to Taiwan?

If you’re planning on moving to Taiwan for work, family reasons, or simply because Taiwan is an awesome place to live, then you should head over to my novella-sized guide to living in Taiwan . 

In that article, I focus more on visa issues, getting a job in Taiwan, finding an apartment, making friends, and all other aspects of daily life in Taiwan, whereas below, I’ll stick mainly to things you need to know for traveling around Taiwan.

Taiwanese History & Culture

How much do you know about Taiwan? Having lived in Taiwan for many years and married a Taiwanese, I know for a fact that many people around the world know little to nothing about Taiwan. Even some of my friends and family members back home think it is the same as Thailand. For this reasons, I’ve even written this article to explain the differences between Taiwan and Thailand  as this one to share some fun and interesting facts about Taiwan .

Taiwan is a small island nation in East Asia. Culturally, it is usually considered part of Northeast Asia, but geographically, some argue that it is closer to Southeast Asia. Taiwan was the original homeland of the Austronesian people, who went on to populate many islands of the Pacific in canoes. Today, their descendants include the 16 recognized aboriginal tribes of Taiwan .

Taiwan was briefly colonized by the Dutch and Spanish, while the Portuguese famously called it “Formosa”, or “beautiful island”, a name which stuck for centuries. Over the last 500 years, millions of people have migrated to Taiwan from China, especially Fujian province in the southeast. That’s why the local language of Taiwan, “Taiwanese” , is also called Minnan; it is the same as the Chinese dialect spoken in the Minnan region of Fujian. Taiwan remained on the fringe of Chinese imperial influence for centuries, then fell to Japanese occupation from 1895 to 1945.

In the Chinese Civil War, the nationalist KMT party of the Republic of China lost to the Communist Party in 1949 and fled to Taiwan, along with millions of Chinese soldiers and refugees from all over China, bringing their language (Mandarin), food, and culture. They thought they’d take back China someday, but they never did. That’s why Taiwan is still officially (and confusingly) called Republic of China, but their passports now finally say “Taiwan” in bigger letters . In 2000, the DPP were the first non-KMT party to win an election in Taiwan. Current President Tsai Ing-wen belongs to the independence-leaning DPP party.

The relationship between Taiwan and China remains complex and is the source of much tension. China claims that Taiwan is a province of China and bullies Taiwan from entering the UN and WHO, and from using the word “Taiwan” in international events like the Olympics (they have to call their team “Chinese Taipei”. But most Taiwanese consider Taiwan independent, and anyone who has been to both countries knows just how different they are. Few countries officially recognize Taiwan, but it acts as an independent country in virtually every way.

Today Taiwan is a modern, vibrant democracy with a free press. It is known for its welcoming people, efficiency, safety, and incredible street food. It has been chosen as the top country in the world for expats . It was also the first country in Asia to legalize equal (gay) marriage rights. Taiwan was one of the success stories in its handling of the COVID pandemic. Also read about some of the most famous people from Taiwan here .

Should you tip in Taiwan? Most often the answer is no. Learn all about Taiwan’s money and currency here .

Thailand vs. Taiwan: What’s the Difference?

Taiwanese food.

One of the great pleasures of visiting Taiwan is enjoying the country’s incredible food. Indeed, may travelers from Asian country’s come to Taiwan JUST for the food. Taiwanese is especially known for its incredible variety of cheap and delicious street food .

The best place to try Taiwanese street food is in night markets. Every city in the country has a night market (here are the best night markets across Taiwan ), while Taipei has more than 50. Here I introduce the best night markets in Taipei , night markets in Taichung ,  night markets in Tainan , and night markets in Kaohsiung . Also don’t miss my favorite night market in the country, Keelung Night Market !

Besides street food, some restaurant experiences you may want to enjoy in Taiwan are DIY barbecue joints, all-you-can-eat hot pot, quick fry (a kind of local eatery suitable for groups, and with lots of cheap dishes meant for sharing, with lots of beer), and Din Tai Fung, the country’s most famous restaurant, which specializes in xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). In this article, I recommend 80+ of my favorite restaurants in Taipei , arranged by style, and the best restaurants open all night in Taipei here !

Seafood lovers should also visit Addiction Aquatic Development , an upscale gourmet seafood market in Taipei, or consider visiting one of the country’s many port markets.

For vegetarians and vegans, you’ll be happy to know you’ll be spoiled for choices in Taiwan. See the vegetarian section of my street foods article, or keep an eye out for the character for vegetarian 素 displayed on Buddhist vegetarian restaurants; many of them are buffet style and you pay by weight. You can also say “I am vegetarian” (wo chi su/我吃素), “Do you have anything vegetarian” (you sude ma?/有素的嗎？) or “Is this vegetarian” (zhe shi sude ma?/這是素的嗎？)

Besides all the articles before, I’ve got several newer  food and night markets guides here  on my other website, TaiwanObsessed.

The Top 9 Night Markets in Kaohsiung (& what to eat at each one!)

A Guide to Feasting at Fengchia Night Market in Taichung

Ximending Food Guide: What to Eat & Best Restaurants (2024 updated)

20 Best Night Markets in Taipei (+ What To Eat at Each One!)

The 80 Best Restaurants in Taipei (by food type!)

The “Big 5” Night Markets in Taichung (+ What to Eat at Each One!)

How to Binge Eat Your Way Through Keelung Night Market

What to Eat at Addiction Aquatic Development, Taipei’s Seafood Mecca

Anping Old Street (& other things to do in Anping, Tainan)

The “Big Five” Night Markets in Tainan & What to Eat at Each One

Shenkeng Old Street: A Food Tour of Taipei’s Stinky Tofu Village

Yongkang Street, Taipei for Foodies: Best Teahouses, Mango Ice, and More

Taiwan Street Food Bucket List: 101 Taiwanese Foods To Try

A Food Tour of Burma Street in Zhonghe, New Taipei City

When to visit taiwan.

Deciding on a season or month for your trip to Taiwan is the first step to planning your Taiwan travels, and thus the first topic to cover in this Taiwan traveling guide. To make things easier, I’ve written this dedicated guide to the best time to visit Taiwan . In it, you’ll find a description of every season and month of the year in Taiwan, and links to my 12 individual guides for visiting Taiwan in every month of the year. I update these articles constantly to add upcoming events and Taiwan travel news.

To summarize that article for you here, there’s no real “high” or “low” season for travel to Taiwan; each season of the year comes with some ups and downs. Summer is extremely hot and humid and comes with the chance of typhoons, but it’s also the best time for Taiwan’s beaches , outlying islands , and water-based activities.

Meanwhile, winter can be gray and chilly, but is the best time for hot springs and seeing cherry blossoms. Be careful if planning a trip around Chinese New Year , as many things will close (see my list of attractions and what days they close ), and it can be really difficult to travel around when half the country is on the road. Spring has warm weather but also a mini rain season, while autumn is my personal favorite for these reasons .

Below you’ll also find my individual guides to each season in Taiwan. But don’t fret too much about it; if you can only visit at a certain time of the year, there’s really no bad time to be in Taiwan!

The Best Time to Visit Taiwan: A Month-by-Month Guide

2024 Chinese New Year in Taiwan: Tips for Visiting & Things to Do

Summer in Taiwan: Everything You Need to Know

Winter in Taiwan (Xmas, NYE, LNY & Where to See Snow!)

Spring in Taiwan: Everything You Need to Know

Autumn in Taiwan: Everything You Need to Know

Best taiwan travel deal.

Who doesn’t want to find a good deal when traveling to Taiwan? Here are some of the websites and services I regularly use for planning my Taiwan travels:

• Klook : Get big discounts on everything from High Speed Rail & attraction tickets to restaurant vouchers and guided tours. Sign up with this link to get a free TWD100 credit !
• KKday : While Klook is a Hong Kong compared, KKday is the Taiwan version of it. Some activities are the same as Klook, while some are unique. I prefer Klook because KKday sometimes has poor English, but I still sometimes use KKday for things that Klook doesn’t have. 
• Booking : My preferred site for finding the best hotel deals in Taiwan.
• Agoda : Some users say they find cheaper prices on Agoda for Asian destinations, including Taiwan.
• Cookly : Find the best cooking courses in Taiwan.

These are some examples of great travel deals you can find on Klook:

Taiwan Travel Passes

One way to save money on travel around the world nowadays is by using city travel passes. Taiwan has a few available, but in order for them to actually save you money, you have to understand how they work, and get the right one for your needs.

Here are some travel passes in Taiwan that you may consider getting:

Taiwan Fun Passes

These 1 to 3-day passes include all transportation in and around Taipei, entrance fees to a long list of attractions, and some tourist shuttle buses for day trips out of Taipei. The most popular one is the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass , which you can buy here .

Read my detailed review of all the Taipei Fun Passes to see how they work and determine if any of them will be worth it for your Taiwan trip. It only makes sense to get one if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing and MRT riding in Taipei in 1-3 days. Otherwise, I recommend just getting an EasyCard.

You’ll get a TWD 100 credit toward your Fun Pass if you sign up for Klook with this link first before booking!

I haven’t reviewed it yet, but there is a new Klook Taipei Pass . This one is for attractions only, but you have more time to use it, so it’s better for people who will have more time in the city.

Don’t confuse Taipei Fun Passes with the EasyCard , which is what everyone in Taipei uses to swipe onto the MRT and city buses. Read my detailed EasyCard guide for more info than I’ll provide here.

Taipei Fun Passes are designed for tourists, while the EasyCard is a reloadable card used by everyone else, including tourists who don’t get a Taipei Fun Pass. They cost TWD 100 (you can no longer get this deposit back), plus whatever money you load onto them. You can swipe them to ride the MRT in Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, all city buses in Taiwan, some ferries, and to pay for taxis, items in convenience stores, and more. 

You can get an EasyCard from any MRT station, including the Taoyuan Airport MRT station, and load money onto it.  You can also order an EasyCard for pickup when you arrive in Taiwan . 

Sun Moon Lake Passes

The other place you will find travel passes in Taiwan is at Sun Moon Lake , one of the country’s most popular attractions (we’ll get to those below). There are numerous Sun Moon Lake passes to choose from, and you can buy them from 7-Eleven iBon machines or from train stations in Taichung, the nearest major city.

Like the Taipei Fun Passes, these only save you money if you use them for enough avtivities. Most also include transportation to and from Taichung.

Learn all about the passes and how to use them in my Sun Moon Lake Pass review . Note that these pass prices and what they include are often changing.

Taipei Fun Pass: Is it Worth the Money?

Sun Moon Lake Pass: Is it Worth the Money? (updated 2024)

Best sim card and wifi device.

There’s no doubt that having an Internet connection while traveling in Taiwan is super convenient. You can check GoogleMaps to find the way, communicate with hotels, find bus times, etc. Nowadays, it’s pretty much essential. 

A SIM card is the best idea in my opinion, but some people also go for an eSIM like this or pocket Wifi device . I compare all three in my guides to SIMs for Taiwan and eSIMs for Taiwan . 

I recommend pre-ordering your SIM card for pickup when you arrive at Taoyuan International Airport. If you go with a WiFi device, then I recommend this one . Note the pick up times – if you arrive in the middle of the night, you may have to pick one up in the city.

You’ll get a TWD 100 credit toward your Taiwan SIM card or WiFi device if you  sign up for Klook with this link  first before booking it.

Another option that I have yet to fully understand myself is  eSIMs for Taiwan  – especially considering that the newest iPhones don’t even have SIM card slots anymore. If you are tech-savvy, check them out!

Taipei: The Tantalizing Capital of Taiwan

In some countries, you want to get out of the capital as soon as you arrive. This is not the case with Taipei . For most visitors to Taiwan, I recommend budgeting at least two full days for Taipei City alone, plus add 1-2 more days for day trips from Taipei (even more if you can!)

Taipei is always buzzing with activity; by day, you’ve got atmospheric historical neighborhoods to explore, towering Taipei 101, landmark Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Beitou Hot Springs, Maokong Gondola, Longshan Temple , and hikes in the hills (and volcanoes!) surrounding the city. After the sun goes down, it’s time to eat ’til you drop in the city’s famed night markets : the most famous ones are Shilin, Raohe, Ningxia, Tonghua, Nanjichang, and Huaxi Night Market .

As if that weren’t enough, Taipei is incredibly safe, and getting around is a breeze on the MRT, one of the best metro systems in the world.

Things to Do & Taipei Itineraries

Here is the most popular article on my website: 50+ awesome things to do in Taipei . For the less famous spots, see my off-the-beaten-track guide to Taipei . Below I’ve also linked to all my Taipei articles.

Besides the below articles, I’ve also got guides to spending one day in Taipei and how to plan a Taipei layover on my other website, TaiwanObsessed.

50 Unmissable Things to Do in Taipei in 2024

How to Spend 2 Awesome Days in Taipei

How to Spend 3 Awesome Days in Taipei

How to Spend 4 Awesome Days in Taipei

The above itineraries will make things easier for those will little time for planning. But my recommendations for Taipei don’t stop there.

For people who want to dig a little deeper and further customize the Taipei portion of their Taiwan trip, here some useful resources that further explore how much Taipei has to offer, including its best temples , night markets , hikes , and beaches .

Also see the my post below for the best times of the year to visit Taipei; the weather of Taipei is quite different to that of other parts of Taiwan, so if your trip to Taiwan is mainly focused on Taipei, you’ll find this article more useful than my “Best time to visit Taiwan” article I linked to above.

The Best Time to Visit Taipei City: An Insider’s Guide

Hiking in Taipei: My 21 Favorite Taipei Hikes

The Best Cat Cafes in Taipei, the Birthplace of Cat Cafe Culture

30 Jaw-Dropping Temples in Taipei and New Taipei City

7 Beaches around Taipei You Can’t Miss

Coolest neighborhoods & where to stay.

Deciding where to stay in Taipei can be rather intimidating, as there are so many cool neighborhoods to choose from.

Let me make life easier for you by breaking it down to the best neighborhoods to stay in Taipei , with my hotel recommendations for each one. For each area of Taipei, I’ve included hotel recommendations for budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers, also pointing out which ones are suitable for travelers with kids. I’ve also got specific guides to the best hostels and luxury hotels in Taipei.

Besides my “where to stay in Taipei” article below, I’ve got detailed guides to some of my personal favorite neighborhoods in Taipei: Beitou for hot springs, historic Dadaocheng , and funky, gay-friendly Ximending . Start planning your walking tours with these guides!

If you have a very early or late flight, here are my recommended hotels in and around Taoyuan Airport .

Where to Stay in Taipei in 2024 (by area & budget)

The Ultimate Beitou Hot Spring Guide (2024 info!)

A Guide to Dihua Street in Dadaocheng, Taipei’s Oldest Street

30 Fun (& WEIRD) Things to Do in Ximending, Taipei

Day trips from taipei.

When deciding how long to stay in Taipei, you have to factor in that there some really incredible day trips from the city!

I normally recommend that, if you can, dedicate two full days to exploring Taipei, then another one or two days for day trips. If you only have one day in your Taiwan travel plan to do a day trip from Taipei, I would suggest that you plan it carefully. This way, you’ll be able to squeeze in several of my recommended 40 day trip ideas into one day.

The following five stops are some of the most popular day trips from Taipei, and since they are all fairly close together, you can combine them into one killer day trip from Taipei. There are even some shuttle buses deals like this that can make this even easier to accomplish.

• Jiufen : A former gold mining town on top of a mountain, famous for its atmospheric staircases and teahouses
• Shifen Waterfall : The widest in Taiwan, accessed from a cute train station where people set off sky lanterns
• Houtong : The “Cat Village”, literally a village full of cats
• Keelung : A harbor city with the best night market in Taiwan, forts, beach, and more
• Yehliu Geopark : Odd, wind-blown rock formations on the coast
• Tamsui : A popular riverside promenade with unique foods, beaches, and picturesque colonial forts

If you don’t want to drive or figure out public transportation, there’s an awesome English service called Parkbus Taiwan , which takes guests on day trips from the city for hiking and other activities. Use my discount code “ Spiritual10 ” at checkout to get 10% (may not be available for some events). 

There are practically unlimited day trip possibilities from Taipei. This is why myself and so many other expats love living in Taipei; you get the excitement of the city, but you can go somewhere different every weekend. Because Taiwan is so small, and thanks to its amazing transportation system and the High Speed Rail, you can go almost anywhere in Taiwan in a day or weekend trip. 

20+ Fun Things to Do in Keelung, Northern Taiwan’s Port City

40 Day Trips from Taipei You Can’t Miss

Getting from Taipei to Jiufen and Shifen (with pictures and times)

Jiufen Old Street: A 2024 Guide to this Classic Taipei Day Trip

Tamsui, Taiwan: Fishermen’s Wharf, Old Street, & other Things to Do

Wulai Hot Spring & Old Street: A 2024 Guide

Planning your trip around taiwan.

One of the hardest parts of planning a Taiwan trip is mapping out the perfect Taiwan travel itinerary .

What a lot of people do is book their trip first, and then realize they didn’t budget enough time for everything they want to see. Moreover, some of the best things to do in Taiwan are on opposite coasts, with 3000-meter mountains between them!

For example, many people only schedule around one week for their Taiwan trip. Then they decide they want to visit Taipei, Taroko Gorge on the east coast, and Sun Moon Lake and/or Alishan , which are in Central Taiwan but accessed from the west coast. On the map, these three top scenic attractions in Taiwan look fairly close together. But guess what? There are no buses that cross the Central Mountain Range of Taiwan. You can do it in a car, but the road is super winding and takes a long time.

So what I see a lot of visitors doing is going from Taipei to Taroko Gorge first (2.5 to 4 hours on the train, one way). Then they have to return to Taipei, and then travel a similar amount of time down the west coast to reach Sun Moon Lake and/or Alishan. It’s certainly possible, but it means you have to use up an entire day of your trip on the road.

How can you resolve this common Taiwan travel dilemma? I feel the answer is in planning your trip better before you book it, so that you can budget enough days to travel all the way around Taiwan and see everything that you want to without rushing. Which leads to the next important question: 

How Long Do I Need to Visit Taiwan?

With a week or less, you will probably only have time to visit Taipei, including some day trips, and perhaps do a 1 or 2-night trip to Taroko Gorge on the East Coast, or Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, and/or Alishan in Central Taiwan (and this would be really rushed).

If you want to do a full circle around Taiwan, these are the most obvious destinations along the way, going in a clockwise direction around Taiwan by riding the train: Taipei, Hualien (Taroko Gorge), Taitung, Kaohsiung, Tainan, Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Taichung, and back to Taipei.

To do this, you are going to need two weeks or more . With exactly two weeks, you may even have to cut out one or two of the above stops, otherwise you’ll just be checking in and out of hotels every day or two.

With even more time, you can be less rushed, and potentially add more stops, such as the beaches of Kenting on the southern tip of the island (as a side trip from Kaohsiung), Lukang, spend more time in laid-back Taitung, or visit some of the offshore islands, like Green Island, Orchid Island, or Penghu. This is why I think 3 weeks is a great amount of time for visiting Taiwan, and if you can go even longer, all the better!

Taiwan Travel Itineraries

Here are my recommend itineraries for traveling around Taiwan.

The five-day itinerary is for a very short visit, while the second article provides Taiwan itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 weeks. These are tried-and-tested itineraries that I have done in some form or another several times, including with my kids (see more on that below)!

The itineraries for 2 weeks and up involve doing a full circle around Taiwan mostly by train, with a few buses as well. See the end of this article for more information on transportation options for getting around Taiwan.

A Taiwan Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks (Slow & Fast Options!)

A Simple Taipei & Taiwan 5 Day Itinerary

Visiting taiwan with kids.

My kids Sage and Lavender were born and spent the first handful of years of their life in Taiwan. They’ve seen more of the country than most visitors ever will!

Below are my super detailed guides to visiting Taipei with kids and how to plan a complete circle around Taiwan with kids . The latter article is very similar to my above Taiwan itinerary for 1-3 weeks, but with tweaks along the way to focus on sights that my kids loved the most, as well as recommendations for kid-friendly hotels in each stop along the way.

You may also be interested in the best amusement parks in Taiwan , where to see capybaras in Taiwan , and my guide to Yilan, the “kid-friendly county” .

Taiwan with Kids: How to Plan a Round-Island Trip

Taipei with Kids in 2024: Ideas from a Local Family

Best attractions around taiwan.

When trying to decide which destinations in Taiwan to include on your itinerary, it will be useful to take a deeper look at each of them to decide which ones are for you.

I’ll start with a list of some of the top scenic attractions. These five are the most common stops that people include on their Taiwan itineraries. I’ll follow that up with the best cities in Taiwan besides Taipei, best hot springs in Taiwan, best off-the-beaten track places to visit, and finally the  offshore islands of Taiwan . Again, these are described in clockwise order going around Taiwan.

Top Scenic Attractions in Taiwan

• Taroko Gorge : dramatic canyon in beautiful Hualien County  (currently closed indefinitely due to April 2024 earthquake)
• Taitung : Laid-back, rural corner of Taiwan, including the famous Brown Boulevard Cycling Path
• Kenting : Beaches on the southern tip of Taiwan
• Alishan : Mountain resort in Nantou famous for huge trees, high mountain tea, and sunrises above seas of clouds
• Cingjing (Qingjing) Farm : A high mountain farm and resort village that looks like a slice of Europe in Taiwan
• Hehuanshan : The best place to see snow in Taiwan (usually possible in January to March)
• Yushan : Tallest mountain in Taiwan and Northeast Asia, requires permits and planning to climb
• Sun Moon Lake : Beautiful lake surrounded by mountains

Here are my extremely detailed guides to the ones that almost all visitors try to include on their Taiwan travel itinerary:

A 2024 Guide to Taroko Gorge and Taroko National Park

Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan: A 2024 Visitors’ Guide

A Guide to Chishang, Taitung and Cycling Brown Boulevard

Alishan, Taiwan: A Super Detailed 2024 Guide

40 Unmissable Things to Do in Hualien, Taiwan

30 Incredible Things to Do in Taitung, Southeastern Taiwan

Best cities in taiwan.

Besides Taipei, which is a given, city lovers are going to find there are a few other cities they may want to include on their Taiwan travel itinerary. You can see my above-linked Taiwan travel itineraries to see how to fit these cities into your schedule.

Since there is one only train line around Taiwan, you’ll have to pass through all of them anyway if doing a full circuit around Taiwan. Since most cities in Taiwan are located on the developed west coast, the below are in counter-clockwise order. The varying time to reach them depends on whether you take the regular train/bus or the much faster High Speed Rail.

• New Taipei City : Taiwan’s largest city literally surrounds Taipei and is home to many of the most popular day trips from Taipei .
• Taoyuan : Best known for the international airport, consider stopping here to visit the impressive Xpark Aquarium on the way to/from the airport.
• Taichung : 1 – 2 hours south of Taipei on the west coast and the largest city in central Taiwan. Known for its artistic attractions like Rainbow Village , Gaomei Wetland , and as the birthplace of pearl milk tea.
• Lukang : 2-3 hours south of Taipei. Historic city famous for its traditional culture, food, and Old Street, and home to one of the most important temples in the country.
• Tainan : 1.75 – 5 hours south of Taipei on the west coast of southern Taiwan. Former capital of Taiwan famous for its temples , night markets , and considered by locals as the food capital of Taiwan.
• Kaohsiung : 2 – 6 hours south of Taipei in the southwest of Taiwan and end of the High Speed Rail line. Port city known for its revitalized harbor front, night markets , street art and Pier 2 Art Center , and the largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan, Foguangshan . Here are my recommended hotels in Kaohsiung .
• Hualien : 2.5 – 4 hours from Taipei, only major city on the wild, scenic east coast of Taiwan. Mostly people stay in the city to visit nearby Taroko Gorge, but the city has a good night market and opportunities to experience Taiwanese aboriginal culture, such as this aboriginal cooking course .
• Taitung : 3.5 – 6 hours from Taipei, small city known for its aboriginal culture and end-point of most road trips down the east coast of Taiwan

Lukang Old Street (& other Things to Do in Lukang, Taiwan)

Gaomei Wetlands in Taichung: A Detailed Visitor’s Guide

A Detailed Hualien Itinerary for 1-4 Days

Fo Guang Shan, Kaohsiung: How to Visit and Stay at Taiwan’s Biggest Monastery

70 Things to Do in Tainan, Taiwan’s Ancient Capital

Our Visit to Rainbow Village Taichung (before it was destroyed)

50+ Things to Do in Kaohsiung, Southern Taiwan

A Guide to Pier 2 Art Center in Kaohsiung City’s Harbor

25 Unique Things to Do in Taichung, Taiwan

20+ Awe-Inspiring Temples in Tainan, Taiwan

Best hot springs in taiwan.

I happen to be a hot spring lover. Because Taiwan sits on the meeting point of two major tectonic plates, the island is geologically active, with dormant volcanoes and over 100 major hot springs! The most famous is surely Beitou Hot Spring in Taipei , while Wulai , Jiaoxi , and Jinshan can be visited as day trips from Taipei.

Here is my detailed guide to the 20 best hot springs in Taiwan , including information on hot spring etiquette.

The 20 Best Hot Springs in Taiwan for a Blissful Winter Soak

Jiaoxi Hot Spring: A Guide to My Favorite Spa Village in Taiwan

Lovely Tai’an Hot Spring in Miaoli, Taiwan

Wenshan Hot Spring: Taroko Gorge’s Spectacular Secret

Off-the-beaten-track places to visit in taiwan.

Just to make things more difficult for you, besides the many must-see places to visit in Taiwan I mentioned above, which already require at least two weeks to visit, there are loads of off-the-beaten-path destinations that are just as worthwhile.

Serious off-the-beaten track travelers should head to my other site, where I’ve got guides to relatively unexplored cities and counties like Taoyuan , Hsinchu , Yilan , Miaoli , Changhua , Yunlin , and Pingtung . I’ve also got this guide to  off-the-beaten-track things to do in Taipei .

The below are articles cover some of the more remote or less visited (by foreign tourists) places in Taiwan. These are just the tip of the iceberg, but they are some of my personal favorites.

Depending on what kind of traveler you are, these may appeal to you more than the “must see” attractions I covered above!

The Stunning East Coast of Taiwan Part 1: Yilan to Hualien and Taroko Gorge

Is Sicao Green Tunnel in Tainan Worth the Trip?

Strawberry Picking at a Strawberry Farm in Dahu, Taiwan

The Stunning Qigu Salt Mountain and Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields in Tainan

50+ Fun Things to Do in Yilan, Taiwan (2024 Updated!)

Quirky Xitou Monster Village in Nantou, Taiwan

A Guide to Luye & the Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival 2024

A Guide to Dulan, Taitung: Taiwan’s Coolest Beach Hangout

The Stunning East Coast of Taiwan Part 2: Hualien to Taitung and Kenting

Anping Tree House: How to Visit this Must-See Tainan Attraction

The offshore islands of taiwan.

Yet another list of places you’ll want to visit during your Taiwan travels is the offshore islands. However, a visit to any of the offshore islands is like a trip within a Taiwan trip; visiting most of them involves a little more planning and time. 

There are about half a dozen main ones to choose from. Also, the offshore islands are best visited in spring, summer (high season due to domestic tourists, but can be very hot), and early fall. In winter, they become very windy (especially Penghu) and/or many traveler’s services totally shut down (especially Orchid Island ).

The first four below are most commonly reached by ferry, with Xiao Liuqiu being the closest to the Taiwan mainland. Orchid Island also has the option of flights in very small airplanes from Taitung, while Penghu has regular flights from Taipei and other cities in Taiwan. Kinmen and Matsu are much closer to China than Taiwan (they are so close to it that you can see China from their shores), so they require flights.

Here are the small islands of Taiwan that you may want to visit someday.

• Green Island : Off Taitung’s coast, best for scenery and snorkeling or scuba diving, and a saltwater hot spring.
• Orchid Island : Harder to reach/plan, and home to Taiwan’s most remote aboriginal tribe.
• Xiao Liuqiu : Snorkeling with sea turtles, and easily done as a day trip from Kaohsiung. 
• Cijin : A long, skinny island protecting Kaohsiung’s huge harbor.
• Penghu : Best for beaches, sailing, island hopping and a fireworks festival.
• Kinmen : Much closer to China than Taiwan, known for military history and Kaohliang, a strong liquor.
• Matsu : Also very close to China, known for its tunnels and forts.

Orchid Island, Taiwan: A Detailed 2024 Guide

How to Visit Cijin Island in Kaohsiung City’s Port

A 2024 Guide to Xiaoliuqiu Island, a Turtle Spotting Hot Spot

A 2024 Guide to Penghu Islands, Taiwan’s Offshore Paradise

Transportation: how to get around taiwan.

Taiwan has an amazing transportation system, and getting around the country is a breeze thanks to its extremely reliable metros, buses, and railway systems.

It is still important to understand some things about getting around Taiwan, though, in order to avoid disruptions on your trip (like finding out all the trains to your next stop are sold out!)

If you follow my Taiwan itineraries, you’ll mostly be taking trains around Taiwan, with some exceptions. Getting to Alishan is more complicated, as it can involve a train, bus, or combination of the two. Sun Moon Lake and Kenting are also only accessed by bus. Luckily, you don’t need to book any of these bus rides in advance.

See here if you’d like to find a private driver in Taiwan .

Getting Around Taipei

Upon arriving at Taoyuan International Airport, you can takes a bus (TWD135, 1 hour), the new Airport MRT (TWD 165, 35-50 min), or a taxi (TWD1000-1500, 45 min to 1 hr) to Taipei.

I recommended  pre-booking a private transfer to your hotel , which is usually a little cheaper than taking a taxi. Also see my more detailed guide to getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei . If your flight is very early or late, stay in one of these airport hotels .

The MRT is the lifeline and pride of Taipei. It is considered one of the best metro systems in the world. You’ll love it, and use it to get almost everywhere you go in Taipei.

In order to ride the MRT, it’s best to get an EasyCard from any station (or order it before your trip ) and load some money onto it. This makes it easy to swipe in & out. You have to pay a TWD non-refundable deposit plus however much you want to load onto the card.

The EasyCard also works for buses and taxis in Taipei, ferries in Tamsui, and local buses in cities across the country. It can also be used on the Taichung and Kaohsiung MRT, and regular/local train tickets between cities that don’t require seat reservations. Note that for most long distance buses or trains, you won’t be able to use it.

Taxis are also cheap and plentiful in Taipei. Taipei has Uber, too, but it often isn’t any cheaper than taxis. Taxi drivers speak varying levels of English, and some not at all, so it’s a good idea to have your destination written in Mandarin when taking local taxis. Taxi drivers in Taiwan are honest and won’t try to scam you or rip you off.

Taking the Regular Train (TRA) around Taiwan

The regular (TRA) train does a full circle around Taiwan. Tickets can be booked online  up to exactly 28 days in advance (or 29 days for Saturday trips and 30 days for Sunday trips). See details and screenshots for how to book train tickets online or on the app .

Trains sell out in Taiwan very often, especially on weekends and holidays. Sometimes they even sell out minutes after they go on sale, such as for long weekends, or for very popular rides (like the express train from Taipei to Hualien/Taroko Gorge).

For this reason, it’s very important to book your tickets in advance. Note that 28 days in advance means the tickets go on sale at precisely 12:00 a.m. (midnight). For example, if you want to travel on September 28, you should try to book your ticket at 12:00 a.m. on September 1, which is actually the night of August 31, Taiwan time of course.

If your train sells out, don’t freak out. You can always buy standing tickets on most trains. A lot of people do this, and just stand in the aisle or sit on the floor between train cars (see which ones below). It’s not comfortable for a long ride, but at least you’ll get there. Another option is to try a different time, or take a bus (but beware that there are very few buses running down the east coast).

Note that you are allowed to eat and drink on trains in Taiwan, and they all have toilets on board. You can even discreetly drink a beer on Taiwan trains, although most train station 7-Elevens no longer sell them. But be warned that Taiwanese people tend to be very quiet (and often sleep) on buses and trains, and they don’t appreciate noisy passengers. To be respectful, keep talking to a whisper, or just don’t talk at all. I can’t say how many times we have been “shhed” just for having a conversation at a reasonable volume on buses or trains in Taiwan.

There are different types of TRA trains in Taiwan, and it’s useful to know the names of them when searching for train times. Here they are:

• Local Train (區間車): Slowest, stops at every small stop, cheapest, least comfortable, and you can sit or stand anywhere. Buy ticket at station or swipe with EasyCard.
• Chu Kuang Express (莒光號): Regular trains that circle around Taiwan. Reserved seats, but you can always buy standing tickets from the train station ticket window.
• Tze-Chiang (Express / 自強號 ): Same as the above, but faster and fewer stops. Standing tickets also possible.
• Taroko / Puyuma Express (太魯閣號): Super express train from Taipei to Taroko Gorge/Hualien. Reserved seats only, and always sells out very quickly.
• Tze Chiang Lmt. Express 3000 ( 自強EMU3000 ): A new express train that is also reserved seats only.

The High Speed Rail (HSR)

Taiwan has a Japanese-made high speed rail (HSR) sytem. The single line has 12 stops along the highly developed west coast of Taiwan, from Taipei city in the north to Kaohsiung city (called Zuoying Station) in the south. 

The first station in Taipei is Nangang, while Taipei Main Station is the most useful, and connects to the Taipei City MRT, regular (TRA) trains, and Airport MRT. Banqiao is located in New Taipei City (the large city that surrounds Taipei City), and Taoyuan is close to the Taoyuan International Airport. To get to Taoyuan HSR station from the airport, you have to ride the Airport MRT a few stops in the opposite direction from Taipei.

Generally speaking, HSR tickets costs about twice as much as the regular train, but get you there twice as fast.

It’s important to note, however, that in most cities, the HSR station is located outside of the city center, just like airports tend to be, so you have to factor in time (and money) to get to the city center once you arrive. This is the case for every stop except for Taipei.

In some cases, though, the location of the HSR station can be more useful. For example, in Taichung, the HSR station is closer to Rainbow Village, and has direct buses to Sun Moon Lake. Similarly, in Chiayi, you can catch a bus directly from the HSR station to Alishan, and thus avoid going into Chiayi City. In Kaohsiung, the HSR station is right beside Lotus Lake, one of the city’s top attractions. To get to the Kaohsiung City center, you just have to hop onto the KMRT.

You can buy HSR tickets online up to 28 days in advance, and buying them early usually gets you an early bird price. 

You can also buy discounted HSR tickets on Klook  – buying them here allows you to get the early bird discount even when you’ve missed it on the official site. Note that if you buy your tickets on Klook, you have to follow the instructions provided to actually book your seat after you receive the voucher. You can do this online or in person at the station. You’ll need to show your passport. Note that this Klook deal is for short term tourists only; residents/ARC-holders aren’t supposed to buy them.

Unlike TRA trains, the HSR has three cars (#10-12) of unreserved seats. This means you can show up at an HSR station anytime and buy an unreserved ticket at full price from one of the machines. These never sell out.

You aren’t guaranteed a seat, but you can often get one. The only time when demand is crazy high is Lunar New Year and on long weekends, and even then, we’ve always managed to get on without waiting too long.

Special Trains in Taiwan

Besides MRTs (city metros), TRA trains, and the HSR, there are a few special small-gauge train lines in Taiwan. Mostly these are restored old trains that run along former logging lines, built by the Japanese when they were logging during their colonial rule of Taiwan. They tend to be fun and highly scenic rides for tourists.

Here are some of these special small train lines that you may encounter or seek out on your trip:

• Pingxi Line : this small train line provides access to some of the most popular day trips from Taipei, including Houtong, Shifen, and Pingxi. Most people board it at Ruifang, which has direct connections to Taipei by bus or TRA train.
• Alishan Forest Railway : This is the most interesting way to get from the city of Chiayi to the mountain resort of Alishan. However, the final section was destroyed in a typhoon, so you have to take a bus for the final leg. There are also parts of the train line running to scenic spots within Alishan National Scenic Area. You can find all the relevant information in my guide to getting to Alishan .
• Neiwan, Jiji, and Bong Bong Lines : These are three more scenic small train lines that far few foreign tourists ever make it to. They are in Hsinchu, Changhua, and Yilan (on top of Taipingshan Mountain), respectively. 

Buses in Taiwan

There are some cases where you will need to take buses in Taiwan. Here are a few common routes that many visitors take: 

• In Taipei City, you’ll need to take buses for getting to Yangmingshan National Park or to National Palace Museum
• You’ll also need to ride buses to popular day trip places in New Taipei City, like for getting to Jiufen or Yehliu Geopark. You can swipe EasyCard for all of the above.
• Buses are the only direct way for getting from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake , Sun Moon Lake to Alishan , and Chiayi to Alishan . Click these links to find out how to book them.
• You’ll also need to ride the Kenting Express bus from Kaohsiung to Kenting National Park .
• Buses also run between all major cities on the west coast of Taiwan. They are cheaper but usually a little slower than the train. There are no buses from Taipei to Hualien on the east coast.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Taiwan Trip

Well, I hope you’ve found more than enough information in my Taiwan travel blog for planning your trip. Taiwan remains largely closed to international visitors for the time being, but hopefully big changes are on the horizon.

Please feel free to check back again, as I’m constantly updating my Taiwan travel content to reflect the current situation. And if you’ve got any questions, please join my Taiwan Travel Planning group and I’ll answer them there!

The Perfect Taiwan Itinerary And Complete Taiwan Travel Guide

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 5, 2024

Categories Taiwan

Did you know Taiwan has the largest number and density of high mountains in the world? While this island may be small in size, it has much to offer!

From beautiful beaches to modern skyscrapers and from colorful street art to delicious cuisine, Taiwan has it all.

This Taiwan itinerary will guide you around the highlights of this green island that used to be called ‘Ilha Formosa' (meaning ‘ beautiful island ‘ in Portuguese). A fitting name as Taiwan is absolutely gorgeous!

Taiwan itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Itinerary for Taiwan and Taiwan travel map

In the map below you can find our Taiwan itinerary, at the end of the post you can download this map.

Click here for the interactive map

The ultimate Taiwan itinerary

• Day 1-3: Kaohsiung
• Day 4-6: Kenting National Park
• Day 7-9:  Tainan
• Day 10-11:  Taichung
• Day 12-13: Sun Moon Lake
• Day 14-19:  Taipei (part I)
• Day 20-23: Hualien and the Taroko Gorge
• Day 24-29:  Taipei (part II)

Important things to know when planning a trip to Taiwan

Taiwan is a great destination year-round, however, Spring (March-April) and Autumn (October-November) are the most popular times to visit. From mid-May until September, monsoon season causes a lot of rain, especially on the East Coast. We visited in May and while we did experience some rain, the weather was good on most days. However, we did adjust our travel plans because of the (terrible) weather forecast, and instead of traveling the entire length of Taiwan's East Coast (in the pouring rain), we opted to spend more time in Taipei (where it was still sunny). During Summer (June until August) Taiwan is hot and humid with temperatures rising above 30 degrees Celsius. Winter is low season in Taiwan, though it usually doesn't get that cold (around 10 degrees).

The official currency in Taiwan is the  New Taiwan dollar  ( NT $) .   Here  you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 34NT$ and $1 approximately 30NT$.

Plan your Taiwan trip like a pro with these tools: ? Pick up an EasyCard for cashless payments and to use public transport. ? Book discounted tickets for Taiwan's high-speed rail. ? Stay connected with a  Taiwan Wifi router . ? Plan your journey with the  T aiwan Lonely Planet . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Klook or Get Your Guide . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Taiwan travel tips

In general traveling around Taiwan is very easy. This beautiful small country is safe and well-organized and, as I already mentioned, the people are super friendly.

Nevertheless, here are some travel tips to make your Taiwan trip even easier (and cheaper!).

Buy an EasyCard

I recommend that as soon as you arrive in Taiwan, you pick up an EasyCard .

You can use this pass all over Taiwan to pay for transport (MRT, bicycles, buses, trains, ferries, etc.). The Easy Card gives you a discount on transport fares and saves you the hassle of having to pay with coins.

You can top up your credit in 7-11 and Family Mart (you can also pay with your EasyCard in these shops and several others).

Pick up a Wifi router at the airport

During our trip to Taiwan, we used a portable Wifi router with unlimited data to stay online.

We could connect all our devices (and we have a lot ) and had excellent reception everywhere in Taiwan (except in the tunnels on the East coast). Click here to book your Wifi router .

You can pick up the router upon arrival at Taoyuan international airport or Kaohsiung airport and use it throughout your Taiwan trip.

You can simply return the device to the service counter where you picked it up, or use a 24-hour drop-off box available at the airports mentioned above if you happen to have to catch a flight outside of business hours.

Be prepared to use Google Translate a lot

While the people in Taiwan are very friendly and always willing to help, I was surprised to learn that many Taiwanese don't speak English. At all.

They will still try to help you through and Google Translate makes it a lot easier. You can download the app for free in the App Store or the Play Store .

Our Taiwan trip: facts and figures

• I traveled with my husband; our trip started in Kaohsiung and ended in Taipei. Our Taiwan trip itinerary was  29 days in   total.
• We traveled around Taiwan by public transport (train, bus, and MRT). In Kenting National Park and Hualien, we rented a scooter. In Kaohsiung, Tainan, Taichung, and Taipei we used the public bicycle rental systems, bus, and MRT to get around.
• During our trip around Taiwan, we spent approximately   2065 NT / €63 / $69 per day as a couple. If you want to know more about the costs of our Taiwan trip , check my budget breakdown .
• I have written detailed guides for most places we visited in Taiwan, in these guides you can find detailed information about our day-to-day activities, transportation, and detailed information about our accommodation . You can find the links to those posts in the itinerary below.

Where to find great budget accommodation in Taiwan

In the table below you can find our Taiwan accommodation. I’ve also written a separate post about the places we stayed in Taiwan with more details about these places.

Note: Prices for these hotels depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices on Agoda and Booking and book ahead to get the best deal.

* Unfortunately, the Airbnbs we stayed at in Kaohsiung and Taipei are no longer available due to Covid-19. I've done my utmost to find a suitable alternative (see table) .

How to spend a month in Taiwan

Ideally, if you have a month in Taiwan as we did, you'd make a full circle around the island. You can either start and end your trip in Taipei or in Kaohsiung, as these are the largest hubs for international flights.

As I mentioned above, unfortunately, we didn't get to finish our Taiwan loop because monsoon season started and the East Coast was soaking wet.

Nevertheless, we had a lot of fun during the additional time we spend in Taipei and I don't regret making this decision. Below you can find our day by day one month Taiwan trip.

If you have less time available to explore Taiwan, don't worry, I've got you covered. Further on in the post, I also suggest shorter options (5, 7, and 10 days, plus 2 and 3 weeks) for your Taiwan travel itinerary.

Day 1 – 3: Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung isn't a well-known city, at least I had never heard of it before traveling to Taiwan. Of course, that could also just be me being ignorant…

Anyway, Kaohsiung is the third-largest city in Taiwan and this is where we started our trip. Kaohsiung is an important harbor city but also has many interesting sights.

My recommended activities for Kaohsiung are:

• Cycle the bicycle trail along the Love River . Worthwhile stops are the Kaohsiung 228 Peace Memorial Park, Zhongdou Wetlands Park, Botanical Garden, and the Lotus Pond.
• Cycle around the Lotus Pond. Another great bicycle trail goes around the Lotus Pond, on the south side of the lake you can find the colorful Tiger and Dragon Pagodas.
• Visit Qijin Island . This small island is only a 5-minute ferry ride from the mainland. Here you can explore the Cijin Coast Park, admire the view from the Cihou Lighthouse and visit the Maritime Museum.

Book your Kaohsiung accommodation: 85 Good Time Hotel

Click here to read about more things to do in Kaohsiung .

Day 4 – 6: Kenting National Park

From busy Kaohsiung, we traveled to the green Kenting National Park, in the South of Taiwan.

Fun fact: did you know there are 9 National Parks in Taiwan ?

Kenting National Park is beautiful, the beaches are pristine and the empty roads through lush green jungle make it the perfect place for a scooter road trip.

Some of the best places to visit in Kenting are:

• Maobitou Park : a great spot to admire the beautiful ocean views and impressive rock formations.
• Hengchun night market: try out lots of typical Taiwanese dishes and snacks and wash them down with a boba (bubble tea).
• Kenting town: take an hour or so to explore the town, but leave plenty of time to relax on a pretty Kenting beach, with white sand and stunning blue water.

Book your Kenting accommodation: Light Blue Bed & Breakfast

Click here to read about more things to do in Kenting .

Day 7 – 9: Tainan

Our next destination was Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan and one with a Dutch history which made it extra interesting for us (being from the Netherlands and all).

Back in 1624, the VOC (Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie or United East India Company in English) built Fort Zeelandia in Tainan and used the city as their ruling and trading base.

Besides the Dutch Fort, there are many beautiful temples in Tainan. In fact, there are more Buddhist and Taoist temples in Tainan than in any other Taiwanese city! The top spots in Tainan you should visit are:

• Koxinga’s Shrine : an impressive shrine dating from 1663. Also, take a stroll around the stylish garden in front of the complex.
• Fort Zeelandia: this fort was built by the Dutch in the early 17th century and used as a trading outpost. It's a great place to learn about (part of) the tumultuous history of Taiwan.
• National Museum of Taiwan History : another excellent place to learn about Taiwanese history and its many invaders throughout the decades (the Portuguese, the Dutch, the Chinese, and the Japanese).

Book your Tainan accommodation: Tie Dao Hotel

Click here to read about more things to do in Tainan .

Day 10 – 11: Taichung

Unfortunately, it was raining during the majority of our time in Taichung. We made the most of it though and went to the movies, ate wood-fired oven pizza, and hung out in cute cafes.

However, if the weather is a bit nicer, you can easily spend three days here as there are many things to do in this interesting city! Highlights in (and around) Taichung are:

• Rainbow Village : a short distance from Taichung city center you can find what is perhaps the most colorful village in the world. Painted by Huang Yong-Fu in a desperate attempt to preserve his home that was about to be torn down by the government, this artsy village has now become one of Taiwan’s most famous attractions!
• Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House : the birthplace of Taiwan's famous boba, aka bubble tea. Here you can take a bubble tea-making class and learn how to create these delicious and highly addictive concoctions yourself.
• Taichung Second Market : an authentic wet market with 100 years of history. Here you can eat local dishes created from secret family recipes handed down for generations!

Book your Taichung accommodation: Modern Inn

Click here to read about more things to do in Taichung .

Day 12 – 13: Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake is the largest lake in Taiwan and a very popular place to visit. It sure is a gorgeous place, unfortunately, the rain that found us in Taichung followed us to Sun Moon Lake.

We had planned to do lots of outdoor activities, like cycling around the lake and hiking up Mt. Shuishe.

Instead, we spent most of our time in the Starbucks in Shuishe Village, running outside whenever the rain stopped for a brief moment to take pictures of the still beautiful-looking lake.

Nevertheless, there are tons of things to do at Sun Moon Lake when the weather is nice:

• Follow (part of) the Yuetan Bike Path : a 29 kilometers bike route that goes around Sun Moon Lake. You can also opt for a shorter section of approximately 12 kilometers.
• Ride the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway‭: from the Ropeway, you can enjoy the best views over the lake and forested mountains.
• Visit the Wenwu Temple and Ci En Pagoda : these beautiful constructions‭ are highly worth a visit, and both can be reached with the  Round-The-Lake-Bus .

Book your Sun Moon Lake accommodation: Itathao Motel

? Discount : if you're planning a trip to Sun Moon Lake,  check out the Sun Moon Lake ropeway combo pass , which includes the ropeway, bike rental, and a boat trip over the lake.

Day 14 – 19: Taipei (part I)

I loved Taipei! I'm not usually one for big cities for a long period of time, but I really enjoyed our time in Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan. We spent 12 days there in total and still didn't run out of things to do.

What I loved most about Taipei is how easy it was to get away from the busy part of town and find some peace and quiet.

There is so much nature just a subway ride away from the center! For example, we hiked a mountain trail in the Maokong area and didn't come across anyone else.

I've written an extensive post about Taipei and a blog about day trips from Taipei , but to sum up, here are some of the main Taipei highlights to add to your Taipei itinerary.

Admire the view from the iconic Taipei 101

Go up to the observation deck on the 91st floor for marvelous birds-eye views of Taipei city ( purchase a fast-track ticket here ).

Explore the National Palace Museum

This huge museum houses one of the world's largest collections of ancient Chinese artifacts and is highly worth a visit. Click here to buy your ticket online .

Hike the Elephant Mountain trail

A steep but short walk to the top of Elephant Mountain (a 183-meter high hill) offering beautiful views over Taipei and the aforementioned Taipei 101.

Visit Chang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is a huge and impressive building. Try to time your visit to coincide with the changing of the guards (every hour on the hour from 10 am to 4 pm).

Also visit the nearby Gate of Great Centrality and Perfect Uprightness, National Concert Hall, and the National Theater.

Eat your way around Shilin Night Market 

Shilin Night Market is one of the best night markets in Taiwan, and also one of the largest in the country. Sample some famous street food dishes such as stinky tofu, fried buns, bubble tea, and oyster omelet.

There are so many food stalls you'll inevitably find yourself coming back a second night to try out more typical Taiwanese foods and snacks.

Take a day trip to Maokong

This is a pretty little village on the outskirts of Taipei that can be reached via the Maokong gondola ( buy your online ticket here ) or bus.

There are several great hiking trails around the village, which is known for the cultivation of high-quality tea.

Book your Taipei accommodation: Comma Boutique Hotel

Click here to read about more things to do in Taipei .

Day 20 – 23: Hualien and the Taroko Gorge

The East coast was my favorite part of Taiwan and I have only seen a small section! There are steep cliffs, a stunning blue ocean, marble mountains, and a green jungle.

It's much less populated than the rest of Taiwan, only 4% of the Taiwanese live on the East Coast. We spent 3 days in Hualien and used this relaxed city as a base to explore the famous Taroko Gorge and the area south of Hualien.

Some of the best things to do around Hualien are:

• Qinshui Cliffs : the combination of the steep cliffs and the vivid blue color of the ocean is a spectacular sight.
• Taroko Gorge: one of the most popular places to visit in Taiwan and rightly so, it's a beautiful place. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, rope bridges, and amazing views wherever you look. Click here to book a day trip from Taipei or take a Taroko tour from Hualien city .
• East Coast National Scenic Area : we rented a scooter and went for an adventurous drive along the coast and mountainous area south of Hualien.

Book your Hualien accommodation: Honey B Trip B&B

Click here to read about more things to do in Hualien .

Day 24-29: Taipei (part II)

Because of the approaching typhoon season, it was already very rainy on the East Coast. Therefore we did not continue south to Taitung ( cycling Taiwan’s east coast is a very popular option) but went back to Taipei instead.

In Taipei, we had mostly sunny days for the remainder of our trip and there was a lot more to do in and around Taipei so this was the best option for us.

But I sure would love to see more of the East coast of Taiwan!

Alternative Taiwan itineraries (5, 7, and 10 days + 2 and 3 weeks)

Taiwan itinerary 5 days.

If you just have 5 days to travel around Taiwan, don't worry! While you cannot see everything the island has to offer, you can get a taste and feel of the country.

This is how I would spend a Taiwan 5 day itinerary:

• Day 1-2: Taipei
• Day 3: make a day trip from Taipei (such as Beitou, Tamsui, Wulai, Maokong , or Yehliu Geopark )
• Day 4: travel to Sun Moon Lake
• Day 5: explore Sun Moon Lake and return to Taipei

Taiwan itinerary 7 days

For a 7-day Taiwan itinerary, I'd suggest the following:

• Day 3: make a day trip from Taipei (such as Beitou, Tamsui, Wulai, Maokong or Thousand Island Lake and the Shiding tea township )
• Day 5: explore Sun Moon Lake and travel to Taichung ( book HSR tickets with a discount here )
• Day 6: Taichung
• Day 7: Taichung and return to Taipei

With this Taiwan 1 week itinerary, you will get to explore the buzzing capital as well as Taiwan's second-largest city, Taichung, and one of Taiwan's absolute highlights: the beautiful Sun Moon Lake.

Taiwan itinerary 10 days

This 10 day Taiwan itinerary not only includes the two major cities of Taiwan (Taipei and Taichung), but also the two most beautiful natural sights: Taroko Gorge on the East Coast and Sun Moon Lake in the middle of the Island.

• Day 3: make a day trip from Taipei (such as Beitou, Tamsui, Wulai, or Maokong )
• Day 4: travel to Hualien
• Day 5: visit Taroko Gorge
• Day 6: travel to Sun Moon Lake
• Day 7: Sun Moon Lake
• Day 8-9: Taichung
• Day 10: Return to Taipei

For days 4-10 of this Taiwan 10 day itinerary, it's easiest to rent a car as this will allow you to explore Taroko Gorge independently.

It's also the easiest way to travel from the East Coast to the West coast. If you opt to travel via public transportation, the best way to travel from Hualien to Sun Moon Lake is via Taipei.

Taiwan 2 week itinerary

If you have 2 weeks in Taiwan, I'd recommend traveling either from North to South or vice versa. Your 2 week Taiwan itinerary could look like this:

• Day 1-3: Taipei
• Day 4-5: Sun Moon Lake
• Day 6-7: Taichung
• Day 8-9: Tainan
• Day 10-11: Kenting National Park
• Day 12-14: Kaohsiung

This 2 week Taiwan itinerary is especially suitable for people looking to travel in one direction instead of a loop.

Taiwan 3 week itinerary

If you don't mind a fast-paced itinerary, you could make a complete loop around Taiwain in three weeks. For this 3 week Taiwan itinerary, I'd suggest the following route:

• Day 6-8: Taichung
• Day 9-10: Tainan
• Day 11-13: Kaohsiung
• Day 14-15: Kenting National Park
• Day 16-17: Taitung
• Day 18-20: Hualien and Taroko Gorge
• Day 21: Return to Taipei

You will be traveling a lot with this 3-week itinerary for Taiwan and I'd recommend avoiding monsoon season (which is especially bad on the East Coast).

This itinerary for 3 weeks in Taiwan will show you very different sides of Taiwan. You'll explore several interesting cities, spend enough time at the most beautiful lake in Taiwan and also visit two National Parks (Taroko and Kenting).

Planning a trip to Taiwan: in conclusion

I had a great time in Taiwan and hope this post will help you plan your trip to this wonderful little island.

You can download the map and table with the transport information below. If you have any questions, leave a comment or send me a message !

This post was updated in November 2022.

ViaTravelers

Tuesday 7th of September 2021

Hello, Lotte! Thank you for thsi great blog! Taiwan is such a fascinating place to visit, and I love the Itinerary you gave. It makes an almost two-week trip to Taiwan packed and great!

Monday 4th of October 2021

Thanks for your kind words about my Taiwan itinerary:-) It's such a great country, too bad it's been closed since Covid... Anyway, enjoy your time in Amsterdam (I saw you went on a canal boat trip on your IG).

Monday 18th of January 2021

Thanks so much for sharing such an amazing post of your experience in Taiwan! I've always wanted to visit this country, and your post helped me add even more to my Taiwan must-visit list.

Sunday 24th of January 2021

Thank you for reading my Taiwan post and great to hear it's inspired you (even more) to visit this amazing island. I really loved our time there and would love to go back to explore more (and eat more delicious food...) One day!

Sunday 3rd of January 2021

Thank you so much for all this information. I truly appreciate it! I have been Virtual traveling since C19 and once this pandemic is contained and global green light turns on, Ilike to take my boys (husband and son) to Taiwan. Stay safe and god bless. Thank you

Sunday 10th of January 2021

Hi May Twu,

Thank you for reading my post and most welcome! For now, virtual travel is what will have to do... Hopefully, things will improve in 2021 with vaccine campaigns starting up. I hope you can visit Taiwan in the near future!

Stay safe and thanks again! Lotte

Tuesday 14th of May 2019

Hi. Thanks for the very informative itinerary!

May I know which month did you went to Taiwan? Thanks.

You are welcome! We went to Taiwan in May and left at the start of June. Have a nice trip:-)

Thursday 22nd of February 2018

Thank your for post, it's very useful! Taiwan looks really amazing.

Saturday 24th of February 2018

Thank you, Taiwan is amazing indeed:-)

The Straits Times

• International
• Print Edition
• news with benefits
• SPH Rewards
• STClassifieds
• Berita Harian
• Hardwarezone
• Shin Min Daily News
• Tamil Murasu
• The Business Times
• The New Paper
• Lianhe Zaobao
• Advertise with us

Taiwan launches website to gift 500,000 tourists stored-value smartcards, hotel vouchers from May 1

In a bid to restore the flow of foreign visitors to its shores, Taiwan will in May offer digital smartcards stored with NT$5,000 (S$218) or vouchers of the same value for hotel stays to offset some travellers’ expenses.

The Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s Singapore office said on Monday that 500,000 foreign visitors will receive the vouchers or cards through a lucky draw system when they enter Taiwan at any of the four participating airports on the island starting from noon on May 1.

Tourists will have to pre-register for the draw at least one day before they arrive at either the Taoyuan or Songshan airports that serve capital Taipei, or the Taichung and Kaohsiung international airports.

According to a tourism bureau official, tourists intending to participate will receive a designated QR code after they register at 5000.taiwan.net.tw , which went live on Friday.

The QR code will serve as their lucky draw coupon, which travellers will have to scan at the airport’s arrival hall to find out if they are one of 500,000 winners.

Prize winners can then choose to receive either vouchers to offset some of their accommodation costs or a smartcard, both valued at NT$5,000.

Those who opt for the vouchers, which come in denominations of NT$1,000, can use them at more than 450 participating hotels islandwide.

The smartcards will be variants of Taiwan’s EasyCard (you you ka in Mandarin) or iPass (yi ka tong), the equivalents of Singapore’s ez-link card, that travellers can use for public transport, shopping and dining.

A spokesman for the tourism bureau said 250,000 vouchers have been allocated for 2023, leaving 150,000 more to be won in 2024 and the remaining 100,000 for 2025. The promotion will end by June 30, 2025, or when the last voucher has been given out that year.

Visitors on cruises and agency-arranged tours are not eligible for these vouchers.

Local and foreign tour agencies, however, will be able to access subsidies up to NT$50,000 (S$2,180) provided by the tourism bureau when they bring groups who stay for at least two nights in Taiwan.

Tour agency CTC Travel said in response to queries from The Straits Times on Wednesday it was looking into giving “perks” to travellers booking a Taiwan tour in the form of discounts and travel insurance, but was waiting for more concrete details on implementation from the tourism bureau.

The tourism financial incentives were approved on March 24 as part of the government’s NT$380 billion post-pandemic economic recovery package, said Taiwan’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications on April 18.

The island ushered in the first wave of revenge travellers after its post-pandemic border opening in October 2022.

Taiwan is looking to attract up to six million foreign visitors in 2023, the tourism bureau’s deputy director-general Trust Lin said in March, adding that an estimated one million visitors had arrived in the first three months of the year.

In the three years before the pandemic, Taiwan averaged about 11.2 million overseas visitors a year, but those numbers plummeted to around 1.38 million in 2020, 141,000 in 2021 and 895,000 last year, according to The Taipei Times.

Taiwan has been a popular tourist destination for travellers from Singapore, with 460,000 registered visitors to the island in 2019, before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Kevin Tay, 32, who spent seven days with his family on the island in December, said Taiwan is always on his list of places to visit.

“If the claim process for the vouchers is simple, I would definitely be swayed by the incentives,” said the businessman, who stayed at a resort in Hsinchu during his last trip.

Mr Joseph Cheng, director of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s Singapore office, said on Monday that tourism receipts in 2023 have been encouraging.

“The number of tourists to Taiwan in January and February has exceeded 50 per cent of the same period in 2019, so the overall situation is good,” he told The Straits Times.

He added that the bureau was aiming for around 230,000 visitors from Singapore in 2023, about half of 2019’s numbers.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

• Travel and leisure

Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards

Spin the wheel now

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of Hong Kong for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Hong Kong without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Shopping & Style
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Restaurants
• Music & Nightlife
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Taiwan government is giving away NT$5,000 travel vouchers to tourists

Here's everything you need to know

Planning for a trip to Taiwan? Well, you're in luck as the Taiwan government has just announced that they will be dishing out travel vouchers (much like our consumption voucher scheme , but travel edition) with the aim to boost tourism and attract foreign visitors to the country. Here's what you need to know:

What is it?

Starting May 1, 2023 (12pm), the Taiwan Tourism Bureau will be distributing 500,000 vouchers worth NT$5,000 each (approximately HK$1,280) as travel incentives for tourists visiting Taiwan. The vouchers will be given out through a lucky draw system and will run all the way through to June 30, 2025. The first 250,000 vouchers will be given out in 2023, while the remaining 150,000 vouchers will be distributed in 2024, and 100,000 vouchers in 2025.

Who is eligible?

Independent travellers who do not hold a ROC (Republic of China) passport and are staying in Taiwan for three to 90 days are eligible. However, this does not apply to those travelling in tour groups. In other words, Hong Kong residents holding a Hong Kong passport can participate!

How do I enter the lucky draw?

The rules are simple. Those who are eligible can register online one to seven days prior to their arrival date in Taiwan on a designated government website (5000.taiwan.net.tw). Registration begins on April 28 at 12pm – but remember, the lucky draw only starts from May 1, 12pm onwards.

Participants must fill in the necessary travel information and choose the type of vouchers they would like to receive (electronic tickets or accommodation discount vouchers). A QR code for the lucky draw will be sent to you via email upon successful registration.

On the day of arrival in Taiwan, participants can head to the lucky draw event area located at the arrival halls in one of four Taiwan airports: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Taipei Songshan Airport, Taichung International Airport, and Kaohsiung International Airport.

How do I collect my prize?

Lucky winners may head to the airport's redemption area and provide relevant documents – including their entry stamp, boarding pass, and an electronic copy of their round-trip tickets – to redeem their prize.

How can I use the travel vouchers?

Those who have chosen to claim their prize in the form of electronic tickets may store the money on an EasyCard or iPass and spend them at designated merchants. Each transaction limit is NT$5,000, while the maximum usage per day is NT$3,000.

Meanwhile, winners who have opted for accommodation discounts will receive five vouchers worth NT$1,000 each. The vouchers can only be used once by the winner at hotels with tourist hotel business licenses and commercial hotels or hostels with registered licenses. The vouchers can not be reused or resold.

Recommended stories:

The world’s first Transformers-themed restaurant opens in Causeway Bay

Hong Kong Airport opens its first checkout-free convenience store

Cathay Pacific is giving away over 27,000 round-trip flight tickets to fly out of Hong Kong

Follow us on  Youtube ,  Facebook , and  Instagram , or  subscribe to our  newsletter  for the latest news and updates on what's going on in the city.

• Cara Hung City Life Editor
• Jenny Leung Deputy Editor

Share the story

An email you’ll actually love

Discover Time Out original video

An email you'll actually love

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Sign up to our newsletter
• Advertising
• Express Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

• Print edition
• Digital edition

Taiwan Says New Chinese Air Routes Threaten Taiwanese Islands' Flight Safety

Taiwan Says New Chinese Air Routes Threaten Taiwanese Islands' Flight Safety

FILE PHOTO: Construction of Xiang'an International Airport in China's Xiamen as seen from Kinmen, Taiwan December 20, 2023. REUTERS/Ann Wang/File Photo

By Ben Blanchard and Ryan Woo

TAIPEI/BEIJING (Reuters) -Taiwan said on Friday China's decision to open new air routes that run close to two Taiwanese-controlled islands was a flight safety risk taken without consultation, and said it would demand any aircraft using them be asked to turn around.

Taiwan's government expressed anger in January after China "unilaterally" changed a flight path called M503 close to the sensitive median line in the Taiwan Strait. China claims democratically-governed Taiwan as its own territory.

The new Chinese routes to China's Xiamen and Fuzhou cities, called W123 and W122 respectively, connect to the M503 flight route, and run alongside existing routes to the islands of Kinmen and Matsu, which have regular flights to and from Taiwan.

China had said in January it was opening routes from west to east - in other words, in the direction of Taiwan - on the two flight paths from Xiamen and Fuzhou, but had not until now announced when they would go into operation.

China's civil aviation regulator said in its statement on Friday those routes were now in operation, adding that from May 16 it would "further optimise" airspace around Fuzhou airport.

Photos You Should See - April 2024

It did not elaborate, but that is four days before Taiwan President-elect Lai Ching-te is inaugurated, a man Beijing believes is a dangerous separatist. Lai has repeatedly offered talks with China but has been rebuffed.

A senior Taiwan official familiar with the island's security planning said the flight route announcement was part of a pattern of pre-inauguration pressure from China.

"They want us to cave in, make compromises and change our behaviour," the person said, speaking on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media.

China's Taiwan Affairs Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

China's regulator said that the changes to the flight paths will help meet the "development needs" of flights along the Chinese coast, ensure flight safety, enhance the ability to respond to thunderstorms and improve normal flight operations.

Taiwan's Civil Aviation Administration said the measure seriously impacted aviation safety in Taiwanese airspace, calling it a unilateral move taken without consultation.

At its nearest point, close to Kinmen, there is only a 1.1 nautical mile distance between the Chinese and Taiwanese flight paths, it said.

"The airspace between the two sides is very small, and there are certain risks," it added.

CONTROLLED AIR SPACE

Taiwanese air traffic controllers will "strongly request" their Chinese counterparts guide any aircraft away when an aircraft approaches Taiwan's air space, it said.

Chinese aircraft are not permitted by Taiwan to fly in the airspace Taipei controls around Kinmen and Matsu.

The strait's median line had for years served as an unofficial demarcation between Taiwan and China and was not crossed by combat aircraft from either side.

But China says it does not recognise the line's existence and Chinese warplanes now regularly fly over it as Beijing seeks to pressure Taipei to accept its sovereignty claims.

Flights to and from Taiwan and China's Xiamen and Fuzhou take a circuitous route skirting the median line rather than flying directly across the strait. Domestic Taiwanese flights to Kinmen and Matsu fly directly across the strait.

Taiwan has complained about the M503 route before, in 2018, when it said China opened the northbound part of it without first informing Taipei in contravention of a 2015 deal to first discuss such flight paths.

The Taiwan government rejects China's sovereignty claims and says only the island's people can decide their future.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard and Ryan Woo; Additional reporting by Yimou Lee in Taipei; Graphic by Jackie Gu; Editing by Christopher Cushing, Jamie Freed and Angus MacSwan)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Join the Conversation

Tags: Taiwan , Asia

America 2024

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed on the latest news on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 worst presidents.

U.S. News Staff Feb. 23, 2024

Cartoons on President Donald Trump

Feb. 1, 2017, at 1:24 p.m.

Photos: Obama Behind the Scenes

April 8, 2022

Photos: Who Supports Joe Biden?

March 11, 2020

Inflation a Stubborn Foe for the Fed

Tim Smart April 26, 2024

The Curse of the Modern Vice President

Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder April 26, 2024

‘A Rule for the Ages’

Lauren Camera April 25, 2024

Sale? Ban? What’s Next for TikTok?

Laura Mannweiler April 25, 2024

The Status of the Cases Against Trump

Lauren Camera and Kaia Hubbard April 25, 2024

Economy Slows in First Quarter

Tim Smart April 25, 2024

The website uses Cookies and other relevant technologies to optimize services. To provide you with a better experience, if you continue to use our site, you are consenting with our use of Cookies. The website can also find scenic spots for users. To activate and utilize this AI-based service, please allow the site to acquire your location first.

Tourism Administration, Republic of China (Taiwan)-Taiwan Tourism Administration's Taiwan Tourism Information Website

• Copyright Notice
• Tourism Administration
• Bahasa Melayu
• Bahasa Indonesia
• Scenic Spot Search
• Central Taiwan
• Accessible Travel
• Scenic Spots
• Hot Springs
• Night markets & old streets
• Historic Sites
• Recreational Areas
• Senior Travel
• Northern Taiwan
• Southern Taiwan
• Eastern Taiwan
• Offshore Islands
• Decrease font size
• Increase font size

"Central Taiwan" refers to the following five counties and cities: Miaoli County, Taichung City, Changhua County, Nantou County, and Yunlin County. Located at the heart of Taiwan, these places are ideal for travel as the climate is mild. Many holiday villages and theme parks suitable for young and old can also be found here. If you like culture and art, you must not miss the wood carving studios and pottery kilns in Miaoli, where DIY classes are available. National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts and National Museum of Natural Science are worth some close explorations. Yunlin is known to the world as the place of origin of puppet theatre. It is also worth some fine appreciation.

Last update time：

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.