places to visit in south taiwan

South Taiwan Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• south-taiwan
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Languid, tropical south Taiwan is a world away from Taipei, a land of betel nut plantations, pineapple groves and sandy beaches. The southern plains are home to Taiwan’s oldest Chinese settlements, a bastion of Taiwanese culture with a correspondingly high proportion of independence supporters – the counties of Tainan, Kaohsiung and Pingdong are Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) strongholds and the Taiwanese language is spoken everywhere in preference to Mandarin. The lush southern mountains, while not quite as dramatic as the central ranges, still offer plenty of gorgeous scenery, predominantly inhabited by the Bunun, Paiwan and Rukai tribes – although, sadly, they were hard hit by Typhoon Morakot in 2009, with eight Rukai and Paiwan villages effectively abandoned. Much of the region’s exuberant culture is encapsulated in its festivals: many temples hold elaborate boat-burning ceremonies every three years, while the horizontal firework display at Yanshui is a chaotic but exhilarating event held over Chinese New Year.

Kaohsiung and around

Kenting national park, maolin national scenic area, southern cross-island highway, south from kaohsiung, the southwest coast.

Tainan is an essential stop on any tour of Taiwan. The former capital is crammed with ornate temples, engaging historical sights and some of the best snack food in the country. From here the Southern Cross-Island Highway snakes east across the mountains to Taitung, a dramatic and sometimes perilous route with incredibly scenic views; it cuts through the northern end of Maolin National Scenic Area , no less captivating, with the slate Rukai village of Duona and the thrilling mountain road up to Wutai , another Rukai village. (Much of the Cross-Island Highway and Scenic Area was inaccessible post-Morakot, but most of it should now be open again.) Kaohsiung is the biggest city in the south, with a laid-back, friendly character, rapidly throwing off its grimy industrial image and close to the impressive monastery at Foguangshan . The narrow stub of land at the foot of Taiwan is dominated by Kenting National Park , with its somewhat overrated main resort but a wealth of less visited beaches and excellent surf easily accessible by scooter. The intriguing coral island of Little Liuqiu is just off the coast.

Top image: Wutai Township, Pingtung, Taiwan © AlwinMina/Shutterstock

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Taiwan, created by local experts

11 days  / from 1950 USD

Nature's adventure in Taiwan

Taiwan was formerly known as Ilha Formosa - "beautiful island" and it's easy to see why: lush rivers, tropical forest, and imposing sea cliffs, this itinerary focuses on Taiwan's nature. Start in cosmopolitan Taipei before heading to Taroko National Park, coastal Hualien and finally Sun Moon Lake.

11 days  / from 2541 USD

Treasures of Taiwan

Explore Taiwan's diverse culture and fascinating landscapes in this itinerary covering the whole island. Starting in Taipei you will move on to Sun Moon Lake before heading to Alishan. Discover monasteries and national parks on the Southwest coast before heading back to Taipei.

5 days  / from 1100 USD

The Essentials of Taiwan

Looking for a compact Taiwan itinerary? Look no further. In just under a week, this itinerary allows you to explore Taipei and nearby national parks. Expect waterfalls, panoramic walking trails and thermal springs, all while enjoying the amazing food scene, a blend of Chinese & Japanese cuisines.

Tailor-made trips for   Taiwan

Taiwan’s second city, and one of the largest container ports in the world, KAOHSIUNG (高雄; gāoxióng) has undergone a dramatic metamorphosis in recent years, from polluted industrial centre of two million people to green city of lush parks, waterside cafés, art galleries and museums – all linked by a spanking-new transport system.

The older districts of Zuoying , Yancheng and Cijin Island contain plenty of historic sights and traditional snack stalls, while modern Kaohsiung is best taken in with an evening stroll along the Love River or a visit to soaring 85 Sky Tower close to its bustling shopping districts . With more time, there’s plenty to see on the slopes of Gushan to the west, and around Lotus Lake in Zuoying to the north. You could also hike up to the ridge of hills known as Chaishan , home of Kaohsiung’s famously capricious troupe of monkeys.

Brief history

The oldest parts of Kaohsiung are Cihou Village on Cijin Island , established in the early seventeenth century, and the suburb of Zuoying , created by Koxinga in the 1660s as county capital, a position it maintained until the late eighteenth century. Cihou, and the harbour as a whole, was known as Takau (or Takow), and remained a sleepy backwater until the port was opened up to foreign companies by the Treaty of Beijing in 1860, attracting merchants eager to exploit the south’s growing export trade in sugar. Foreign trade had its dark side however: by the time the Japanese had assumed control of the city in 1895, a quarter of adult males in the south were addicted to opium. The Japanese imposed an Opium Monopoly in 1897, which effectively destroyed Western dominance of the sugar trade. They also began a major modernization programme, completing the harbour and docks in 1908 and opening the Takau Ironworks, Taiwan’s first iron and steel mill, in 1919. Although the city was heavily bombed by US Air Force planes in 1945, the port was rebuilt and by the late 1970s Kaohsiung was Taiwan’s premier industrial centre. In 1979 the Kaohsiung Incident was a defining moment in Taiwan’s struggle for democracy, and today the city is a DPP stronghold.

Kaohsiung’s name is worth explaining: Takau is thought to derive from a Makatau aboriginal word meaning “bamboo fence”; when this was transliterated into Chinese characters it read “beat the dog” ( dǎgǒu ), and in 1920 the Japanese changed the characters to the less offensive “Tall Hero”, with the Japanese pronunciation “Takao”. After 1949 the city became known by the Mandarin pronunciation of these characters.

Foguangshan Monastery

One of several wealthy Buddhist foundations established in Taiwan since the 1960s, Foguangshan Monastery (佛光山寺; fóguāngshān sì) is a vast complex of grand temple architecture, giant statues and Buddhist art. Around 25km northeast of Kaohsiung, it’s an absorbing day-trip from the city, with regular buses making it easy to reach.

The monastery is the home of the Foguangshan International Buddhist Order, founded in 1967 by Master Hsing Yun , an enigmatic monk from China who has spent his life travelling and teaching his unique brand of “Humanistic Buddhism”. Today Foguangshan is part monastery, with around three hundred monks and nuns, and part educational complex, with over a thousand students at its on-site university and high school campus.

Starting at the Non Duality Gate at the front of the monastery, take a look inside the Foguangshan Treasury Museum on the right, packed with Buddhist art, carvings and cultural relics. From here climb straight up the hill towards the stunning main shrine or “Great Hero Hall” – it contains three 7.8m-high Buddha statutes, beautifully cast in bronze and surrounded on all sides by a staggering 14,800 smaller Buddha images lit by tiny lights and displayed within an intricate latticework of carved wood. The latest grandiose addition to the site is the Foguanshan Buddha Memorial Center , with a colossal temple and 50m-high statue of the Buddha as its centrepiece (it’s over 100m tall including the base). The hall houses the venerated Buddha’s tooth relic , donated by a Tibetan monk in 1998. The other highlight is the 36m-high statue of Amitabha Buddha on the east side of the complex (an area known as “Great Buddha Land”). The iconic symbol of the monastery, it is approached by a road lined with 480 smaller statues. You’ll hear the word āmítuófó everywhere you go: this is another name for Buddha, and has become a catch-all for thank you, bless you or hello.

The Kaohsiung Incident

The Kaohsiung Incident (高雄事件; gāoxióng shìjiàn) of December 1979 was a political watershed, often regarded as the beginning of Taiwan’s democratic revolution. Opposition to Taiwan’s one-party state had been growing in the 1970s and, in an apparent concession, President Chiang Ching-kuo had agreed to hold legislative elections in 1979 – but at the last minute, he cancelled them. On Human Rights Day (Dec 10) a rally was organized in Kaohsiung in protest, the activists spurred on by the arrest the night before of two workers for Meilidao (“Formosa” in English), a clandestine publication that was a focus for dissidents. Things quickly got out of hand as police were brought in to disperse the crowds, and violent scuffles ensued. In the aftermath, almost every member of the unofficial opposition was arrested, culminating in the trial, in 1980, of the “ Kaohsiung Eight ” for sedition. Most were jailed for lengthy periods, but the trial was widely publicized and as a result the defendants garnered a great deal of sympathy, ultimately creating a wider base for democratic reform.

Today, the list of those involved reads like a “Who’s Who” of Taiwanese politics, many becoming leaders of the Tangwai ( dăngwài ; Outside Party) movement and later the Democratic Progressive Party: Chen Shui-bian (president 2000–08) and Frank Hsieh (former Kaohsiung mayor and premier) were lawyers on the defence team, while Annette Lu (vice-president 2000–08), Lin Yi-hsiung (former leader of the DPP) and Shih Ming-teh (ex-DPP chairman and political activist) served five to ten years in jail. Although no one died during the incident, Lin’s mother and twin 7-year-old daughters were murdered while he was in prison, a case that remains unsolved.

Straddling Taiwan’s southern tip and bounded by sea on three sides, KENTING NATIONAL PARK (墾丁國家公園; kěndīng guójiā gōngyuán) attracts millions of visitors each year, lured by its warm tropical climate and magnificent white-sand beaches. The park covers most of the Hengchun Peninsula , which sits at the confluence of fault lines and tectonic plates. As a result, the peninsula has been pushed, pulled and twisted into a complex network of low-lying mountains, grassy meadows, steep cliffs, sand dunes and elaborate coral formations. Despite its remarkably varied natural scenery, much of it is overlooked by visitors, most of whom relish the amusement-park atmosphere of the main tourist area around Kenting Town and nearby Nanwan . With so many tourists clinging to these more developed spots, much of the park remains relatively quiet.

The park’s beaches are definitely its biggest draw and, although the ones closest to Kenting Town and Nanwan are overrated (and often overcrowded), it’s not hard to find your own stretch of fine white sand in a more secluded setting. While Kenting is no Ibiza, it can be entertaining at night and is also known as Taiwan’s premier surfing destination. Kenting’s busy season starts in May and lasts through September, but weekends can be crazy year-round. To avoid the crowds visit midweek March to May, when it should be warm enough to lounge on the beach in relative peace.

Spring Scream

The US has Spring Break, but Taiwan has Spring Scream. For the country’s growing legions of rock music fans, Kenting Town has become the site of one of Taiwan’s biggest annual rock festivals – Spring Scream (春天吶喊; chūntiān nàhǎn) – held every April since 1995. Popular with Taiwanese and expatriates alike, this five-day event showcases both international and home-grown talent and is consistently the country’s biggest gathering of foreigners, with expats from all corners of the island converging on Kenting Town for days of unbridled indulgence. Book accommodation way in advance or prepare to crash on the beach. Expect to pay around NT$1500 for an all-event pass, or NT$600–900 for single days. The venue changes, but all the most recent festivals have been held at the Eluanbi Lighthouse.

Stretching over a sizeable expanse of the southern Taiwan hinterland, some 45km east of Kaohsiung, the MAOLIN NATIONAL SCENIC AREA (茂林國家風景區; màolín guójiā fēngjǐngqū) offers an enticing combination of mountain scenery and aboriginal cultures. Sadly, the area was badly affected by Typhoon Morakot , which struck the region in 2009 (35 people were killed in Liugui alone), and some of it may remain off limits to visitors; check w www.maolin-nsa.gov.tw for information . The Rukai aboriginal community was especially hard hit; many settlements have now been relocated to safer areas. Virtually every concrete bridge in the area was destroyed and the famous Duona Hot Springs have been lost, buried by mounds of debris. White-water rafting at Laonong and Baolai has ceased indefinitely; note also that paragliding from Saijia Aviation Park is now only permitted through associations approved by Pingdong county authorities. The Scenic Area headquarters and visitor centre at Maolin Village, as well as the visitor centre at Liugui, were both washed away by Morakot. A new visitor centre is planned near Maolin Village ( w www.maolin-nsa.gov.tw ). The seldom-visited Rukai village of Wutai was spared destruction and remains one of the highlights of the south.

Winding County Route 132 climbs the 15km from Maolin Village to the Rukai village of DUONA (多納; duōnà), one of the last bastions of the traditional Rukai slate-slab houses. This area was hammered by Typhoon Morakot in 2009, with the Duona High Suspension Bridge (多納高吊橋; duōnà gāo diàoqiáo) one of the few bridges to survive; it yields sweeping views of the river valley. About 6km past the bridge is the village itself; time will tell if tourism here recovers from the loss of the hot springs that used to draw them in, but for travellers interested in a slice of Rukai life it’s hard to beat. Duona is a great place to try Rukai cuisine, with outdoor barbecue stalls serving up an assortment of meat grilled on smooth, fire-heated slate slabs.

Twenty-five kilometres east of Kaohsiung is SANDIMEN (三地門; sāndìmén), an aboriginal community nestled where the western plains meet the mountains, and the heartland of the Paiwan tribe. Sandimen is also the gateway to the spectacular 19km stretch of Provincial Highway 24 leading to the remote Rukai village of WUTAI (霧台村; wùtái cūn). The area was devastated by Typhoon Morakot, and eight smaller communities beyond Wutai were evacuated; only Shenshan and Wutai itself remain. However it’s well worth the effort to get here (a permit is no longer required) – the road winds through some truly amazing scenery, with steep roadside drop-offs framed by rushing waterfalls at almost every turn. And Wutai Village is a real treat, with Taiwan’s most undiluted Rukai culture, stone-paved lanes and several friendly homestays .

The spectacular SOUTHERN CROSS-ISLAND HIGHWAY (南橫公路; nánhéng gōnglù) slices across south Taiwan in a dramatic traverse of the central mountains that leaves most travellers clutching the edge of their seats. Starting from the western coastal plains around Tainan, the highway climbs steadily to almost 2800m before dropping sharply down to the east coast, cutting through several distinct ecosystems as well as the southwestern fringe of Yushan National Park . The road was severely damaged by Typhoon Morakot in 2009 however, and although it was open to small vehicles at the time of writing, the route remains precarious beyond the Taoyuan Recreation Area , north of Baolai, and is often closed completely in summer; ask at one of the Kaohsiung visitor centres before starting out.

Along the busy coastal highway heading south from Kaohsiung to Kenting National Park are several worthwhile attractions, suitable as stopovers on an extended excursion to the island’s tropical southern tip or as day-trips from Kaohsiung. Much of this region forms part of the Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area (大鵬灣國家風景區遊客中心; dàpéngwān guójiā fēngjǐngqū yóukè zhōngxīn), with the fishing town of Donggang boasting some of Taiwan’s finest seafood and Little Liuqiu Island making for a relaxing retreat from city life. Just before the coastal highway reaches Kenting National Park, Sizhongxi Hot Springs and County Route 199 make a worthwhile detour, offering interesting spas and beautiful countryside dotted with Paiwan villages.

Little Liuqiu Island

The gem of the Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area, Little Liuqiu Island (小琉球; xiǎo liúqiú) makes for a convenient, relaxing retreat from the din of the west-coast cities. Composed of coral , the 4km-long, 2km-wide island is covered with curious rock formations and caves and offers seemingly endless sea views. Some visitors make it a long day-trip from Kaohsiung, but it’s better to stay overnight and explore at leisure. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants and a seaside camping area that could easily win the accolade as Taiwan’s finest.

Little Liuqiu’s original aboriginal settlers were exterminated by the Dutch between 1636 and 1645, and it wasn’t until the 1770s that Fujian fishermen began arriving, establishing small communities. Today, tourism competes with fishing as the island’s biggest industry, but there is still plenty of fresh seafood to be had in the main village next to Baisha Port.

Encompassing the flat, marshy stretch of coast between Tainan and the Hukou Wetlands in Yunlin county, the Taijiang National Park and Southwest Coast National Scenic Area (南濱海國家風景區; nánbīnhǎi guójiā fēngjǐngqū) contain some of Taiwan’s most important and oldest religious sites , such as Ciji Temple in the small town of Xuejia; remnants of a once thriving salt industry ; and hundreds of oyster farms which make for superb seafood and birdwatching.

Yanshui beehive fireworks

An otherwise sleepy town, a short drive inland from Nankunshen , YANSHUI (鹽水 (yánshuǐ) attracts thousands to its annual firework festival (鹽水蜂炮; yánshuǐ fēngpào), one of Taiwan’s most famous. What makes this pyrotechnic display unique is that the fireworks – lodged in over two hundred walls or “beehives” the size of a truck – are fired horizontally into the crowds creating a cacophony of noise, fire and smoke throughout the night. Protective gear is essential if you want to participate but note that the crowds can be suffocating: around 300,000 people attend. The tradition began in 1885 when locals paraded an image of Guan Di around the town to ward off a cholera epidemic; their prayers were answered only after shooting off a ton of fireworks to “wake” the god. Each year during the Lantern Festival, usually in February, Guan Di is once again paraded around the town before the fiery climax.

Historic TAINAN (台南; táinán), just a few kilometres from the southwest coast, is a city of ancient monuments, delicious food and, above all, temples : there are more gods worshipped and more festivals and rituals observed in Tainan than in any other place in Taiwan. Much of this is a legacy of its former status as capital city, a title it enjoyed for more than two hundred years, and particularly of the seventeenth century, when it was the last independent outpost of China’s Ming dynasty .

The oldest and most absorbing parts of Tainan are historic Anping , on the west side of town by the sea, and the cultural zones in the heart of the old city; the latter were created specifically to make things easier for visitors, with city information, signs and maps tailored to each zone and well marked in English. The Chihkan , Dong-an Fang , Five Canals and Confucius Temple cultural zones contain the richest concentration of sights – reckon on spending at least two days to do them justice.

The ancestral home of the Siraya píngpŭ tribe, Tainan began its modern history with the Dutch , who established Fort Zeelandia in 1624 on a sand bar off the coast. At that time, the site of the modern city’s western half was under water, part of a huge lagoon ringed by a chain of sandy islets. The Dutch called the area “Tayouan” and made it the capital of their colony. In 1662, however, they surrendered to the vastly superior forces of Ming general Zheng Chenggong, also known as Koxinga after a nine-month siege. During the period of Zheng family rule that followed (1662–83) Tainan prospered, and many of its finest temples were constructed to befit its status as an independent Chinese kingdom. In 1664 one of the last descendants of the Ming royal family, the Prince of Ningjing , moved to the city. When the Zhengs surrendered to Chinese admiral Shi Lang in 1683, the city became known as Taiwan-Fu and was made prefectural capital of the island.

In 1823 a devastating storm led to the silting up of the lagoon, and Anping (the site of Fort Zeelandia) became permanently joined to the mainland. The Treaty of Beijing (1860) paved the way for a small community of foreign merchants to trade camphor, tea and opium in Anping, but after the Japanese occupied Taiwan in 1895 the sale of opium and camphor became a government franchise and, with the port silting up further, by 1911 most merchants had left. When Taiwan became a province in 1885, the city became known as Tainan-Fu , or “South Taiwan” and lost its capital status to Taipei. Today it is Taiwan’s fourth-largest city, with a population of around 770,000.

The legacy of Koxinga

The life of Zheng Chenggong, traditionally known as Koxinga in the West (a bastardization of guóxìngyé , an official title given to him by one of the last Ming princes), is a complex mixture of historical fact, myth and politics. Born in 1624 in Japan to a pirate Chinese father and a Japanese mother, he was taken to Fujian in China when he was 7 and given a strict Confucian education. After the fall of the Ming dynasty in 1644, Fujian became the centre of resistance to the new Qing rulers and Koxinga rose rapidly through the ranks of the military, gaining honours from various Ming princes and becoming the leader of the entire resistance movement. In 1658 he was defeated in Nanjing, an event that led him to consider a tactical retreat to Taiwan , and in 1661 he led a sizeable fleet across the straits to remove the Dutch. Contrary to popular belief, the siege of Fort Zeelandia was characterized by a series of blunders, Koxinga’s overwhelmingly superior forces taking nine months to oust the defenders. The general died a few months later in 1662, most likely from malaria and, although he was initially buried in Taiwan his body was taken back to China with his son in 1699. On the island he became known as kāishān wáng , “Open Mountain King”, for his supposed role in developing infrastructure and opening up the country for Chinese immigrants, and is worshipped as a folk god – there are around 63 temples dedicated to him island-wide.

Today, Koxinga is eulogized not just in Taiwan but also in China (there’s a huge statue of him gazing towards the island in Xiamen) for being the only Chinese general to inflict a major defeat on a colonial Western power. Those favouring unification claim he was the first to “take back” Taiwan, while Taiwan independence activists like to point out that Koxinga’s family ruled an independent kingdom that had never been part of the Chinese empire. What’s often forgotten in both cases is that Koxinga’s brief war with the Dutch was a relatively minor footnote to his epic struggle with the Qing regime in Beijing.

The last of the Ming

All but forgotten today, Zhū Shùguì or the Prince of Ningjing (寧靖王; níngjìngwáng), one of the last descendants of China’s Ming dynasty, rulers of China from 1368 to 1644, died in Tainan in 1683. Chong Zhen, the last Ming emperor, hanged himself in Beijing as it was being overrun by rebel troops in 1644, and was eventually replaced by the first Manchu or Qing emperor, Shunzhi. However, several of the vanquished Ming emperor’s relatives escaped to form a rival southern Ming dynasty. Zhū Shùguì was one of these hapless survivors. One by one, his fellow princes were defeated in battle, with the last formal pretender, the Prince of Gui, murdered in 1662. Zhū Shùguì fled to Kinmen and in 1663 he was finally persuaded to move to Tainan by Koxinga’s son, Zheng Jing, becoming the nominal head of the dynasty but with little real power. In a final show of defiance he committed suicide with his household on hearing of the Zhengs’ surrender to the Qing in 1683 – the dynasty died with him. Zhū Shùguì’s modest tomb is in Chuhu, south of Tainan.

Discover more places in Taiwan

• Travel Guide Morocco
• Travel Guide Namibia
• Travel Guide South Africa
• Travel Guide China
• Travel Guide India
• Travel Guide Indonesia
• Travel Guide Japan
• Travel Guide Laos
• Travel Guide Malaysia
• Travel Guide Myanmar (Burma)
• Travel Guide Nepal
• Travel Guide Philippines
• Travel Guide Singapore
• Travel Guide South Korea
• Travel Guide Sri Lanka
• Travel Guide Taiwan
• Travel Guide Thailand
• Travel Guide Australia
• Travel Guide Fiji
• Travel Guide New Zealand
• Travel Guide Belize
• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• Travel Guide Cuba
• Travel Guide Guatemala
• Travel Guide Honduras
• Travel Guide Jamaica
• Travel Guide Nicaragua
• Travel Guide Panama
• Travel Guide Puerto Rico
• Travel Guide Trinidad and Tobago
• Travel Guide Albania
• Travel Guide Austria
• Travel Guide Belgium
• Travel Guide Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Travel Guide Bulgaria
• Travel Guide Cyprus
• Travel Guide Czechia (Czech Republic)
• Travel Guide Denmark
• Travel Guide England
• Travel Guide Estonia
• Travel Guide Finland
• Travel Guide France
• Travel Guide Germany
• Travel Guide Greece
• Travel Guide Hungary
• Iceland Travel Guide

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover Taiwan?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Asia , Beach Guides , Taiwan · May 14, 2022

15 Unmissable Things to do in Kenting, Taiwan

Beyond the neon lights, scooter waterfalls and bustling city life is Taiwan’s little slice of paradise ~ Kenting (墾丁). Situated at the southern tip of Taiwan in Pingtung County, Kenting is the island’s premier beach destination and a huge must on any Taiwan itinerary.

With white sandy beaches, turquoise water, lush tropical forests, stretched-out seaside cliffs and a bustling night market, Kenting has a lot going for it! While most visitors only visit Kenting on a quick weekend getaway, you should definitely stay longer if you can. Why? Because Kenting is stunning and there are loads to do!

In this guide, I’ll share the very best things to do in Kenting, plus all my insider’s tips to make your Kenting trip all the easier .

Ready to find out what to do in Kenting? Let’s dive right into the very best things to do in Kenting!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

15 Absolute Best Things to do in Kenting

Hit the beaches.

Kenting is home to some of the  most beautiful beaches in Taiwan . And as a result, it’s a paradise for beachgoers and sun seekers with dreamy white beaches, palm trees, and warm tropical water. 

There are several fantastic beaches in Kenting, with  Nanwan  (South Beach) and  Little Bay  (opposite the Caesar Park Hotel) among the most popular. Other popular swimming spots include Kenting Beach (along Dawan Road), Sail Rock (in Chuanfanshi) and my ultimate fave Baisha (White Sand Beach).

Since Kenting’s beaches are quite spread out, you’ll definitely need wheels to access places like  Nanwan ,  Baisha , and  Sail Rock . But if you’re just sticking to the main tourist area, you can easily walk to  Kenting Beach  and  Little Bay . 

Apart from just chilling on the beach or taking a dip in the warm waters of the Luzon Strait, most of the beaches also offer a wide variety of water sports activities – think jet ski rides, banana boat rides, SUP, and snorkeling. 

Kenting is also a popular  diving  spot, so don’t forget to bring your favorite  dive camera  along to capture the diverse marine life here! If surfing is your thing,  Jialeshui  (roughly 20km east of Kenting) is one of Taiwan’s best surf spots.

Check Out the Eluanbi Lighthouse

Eluanbi Lighthouse , also known as “The Light of East Asia,” is one of the top 8 landmarks in Taiwan. Interestingly enough, it is also one of the few manned lighthouses in the world.

To this day, the tower is armed, and a trench surrounds it. You might even spot a few gun holes in the walls if you stroll around a bit. There’s also a great little museum filled with memorabilia and old photographs where you can learn more about the lighthouse’s history.

The lighthouse is also home to beautiful gardens and sweeping ocean views. So if you fancy a picnic, this is the perfect spot!

Entrance fee: NTD 60 per adult

Parking fee: NTD 10

See Chuanfan Rock

Chuanfanshi is one of our favorite areas to stop by in Kenting. The main road, Chuanfan Road , is lined with some pretty peculiar and colorful accommodation options. If you are a shutterbug, you can easily get lost in the weird color combinations and diverse themes here – from Greek to Industrial to even a very bizarre rock-shaped house.

Apart from the colorful architecture, Chuanfanshi is home to one of Taiwan’s most iconic landmarks – Chuanfan Rock, also known as Sail Rock. The limestone rock resembles a sailboat setting sail and has been shaped by years of erosion.

Chuanfanshi is a great place to watch the waves come and go, wander along the promenade, or bake in the sun at Sail Rock Beach . The beach is relatively small, but it’s a nice swimming spot, and there are some great water sports activities on offer if you’re into that kind of thing. The best part? It’s not nearly as crowded as Nanwan.

See the Southernmost Point of Taiwan

Just a stone’s throw from the Eluanbi Lighthouse is the Southernmost point of Taiwan . The footpath is 1500m long, and it only takes about 20 minutes to reach the end. There’s a neat little structure signifying the point and some incredible ocean views.

Admire the Views at Maobitou

Maobitou , best known for its “crouching cat” rock formation, lies on the southeast corner of the Hengchun Peninsula. It offers magnificent ocean views and unique natural landforms such as seashore coral reefs, caves, and ditches.

The panoramic views are best enjoyed in the early morning before the crowds gather and at sunset.

Entrance: NTD 30 per adult

Wander Around the Harbor

Although Houbihu Harbor isn’t huge, it’s a great place to stroll around, snap pics of the fishing boats or watch the boats come and go.

Like most harbors in Taiwan, the Kenting Harbor sells freshly caught fish every morning. There is also a fantastic seafood restaurant in front of the market’s entrance. Diving, snorkeling, and boat ride packages can be purchased here too. And if you want to take a quick dip, there’s a nice little white shell sand beach nearby,

Eat Your Way Th r ough the Kenting Night Market

Kenting Night Market is one of the most famous night markets in Taiwan and a huge must-visit place! 

The night market offers all the usual local snacks you’ll find at any other market across the island (stinky tofu, fresh fruit, sausages, bubble tea, banana pancakes, etc.), but the food tastes so much better here! Plus, it has a fantastic selection of fresh and tasty seafood – oysters, giant squid, clams, tiger prawns, sea urchins, and all kinds of fish; you name it!

There are lots to try here, but some must-eat street food include the Korean spicy pork seaweed rolls and the barbecued oysters. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the  croffles – absolute heaven! 

The market is huge and lines both sides of Kenting Street. Most vendors start to open up around 5 pm, and it gets crazy busy from 7 pm onwards. Come hungry, wear comfortable walking shoes, and get ready to join the scrum!

Grab Drinks at the Funky Truck Bars

Another unique attraction in Kenting is its quirky roadside truck bars. 

Truck bars in Kenting are quite a big deal, and each one is unique with its own colorful decorations, funky playlist, and an array of boozy drinks.

You’ll find the best ones near the Ceasar Park Hotel , opposite Xiaowan Beach . Definitely check out the super laid-back  Alex Reggae Bar . The cocktails are amazing, and there’s ample seating scattered around the truck where you can sit back and enjoy a boozy cocktail while listening to Bob Marley. 

Take in the Views at Longpan Park

Roughly five minutes drive from the Eluanbi Lighthouse, you’ll find one of the best examples of Taiwan’s rugged coastline – Longpan Park .

The sprawling roadside area offers sweeping views over the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and grassy hills of Kenting National Park. It’s quite popular among photographers, sunrise chasers, and stargazers, making it a must-visit attraction in Kenting.

The local authorities have recently made some good changes here, so the trail is much safer now than it used to be. The first section is now fitted with a wooden walkway, and the viewing area has been leveled out. Just a heads up – it’s quite windy here, so don’t go too close to the edge and keep an eye out for the signs which mark the most dangerous areas.

Visit the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium 

Another great place to go in Kenting is the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium (NMMBA) . 

Located in the   northwestern corners of Kenting National Park in Checheng Township, NMMBA covers more than 60 hectares making it the largest aquarium in Taiwan. 

What really makes NMMBA such a hot spot is that it houses a diverse range of aquatic life, both large and small. A 16-m whale shark, dolphins, sailfish, belugas, and penguins are just a few of the incredible marine animals you can see up close here. Other highlights include the Coral Kingdom Pavilion, housing an 84-meter underwater tunnel filled with colorful coral, and the Giant Kelp Tank.

With multiple displays, educational activities, and even sleepover tours for those that really want to get acquainted with the underwater world, it’s a great place to take the whole family. However, since the aquarium is a popular tourist attraction in Kenting, it’s best to grab your tickets online to avoid disappointment. Entrance to the aquarium is NTD 450 per adult.

Kenting aquarium is roughly 30 minutes drive from Kenting Town and is also easily accessed by bus. Bus 101 (Kenting Orange Line) departs every hour from Kenting and takes about 45 minutes. 

Relax at Baisha Beach

As already mentioned, Kenting has a whole host of incredible beaches. But there’s one beach, in particular, that stands out from the rest – Baisha .

Baisha is on the peninsula’s western side, away from all the crowds. The famous “Life of Pi” beach features a stunning 500m long strip of soft sand mostly formed by shells and dreamy turquoise water. 

There are hardly any waves here, so it’s the kind of place where you can float on the water or swim for hours. If you’re looking for something a bit more thrilling, enjoy a jet ski or banana boat ride. The drivers really go wild, so get ready for some fun! 

You can rent umbrellas and chairs for NTD 300 a day. And at the northern end of the bay, there’s a cute little bar where you can get everything from freshly cracked coconuts and ice cream to boozy cocktails and ice cold beers.  

Watch the Sunset at Guanshan Cafe

Just a short drive from Maobitou is the top sunset viewing spot in Kenting, Guanshan.

Here you’ll find a lovely little outdoor cafe (see  Google Maps ) with breezy decks overlooking the ocean where you can sit back and watch the sun dwindle under the horizon. You’ll need to buy a ticket (NTD 100) to enter, but you can use it for any snacks or drinks on the menu. They don’t serve alcohol here but have all the usual drinks and a small selection of light snacks. 

It gets crowded, so make sure you get there at least an hour before sunset to grab a seat. And bring bug spray! 

Stop by Shell Beach

Shell Beach or Shadoa is a beautiful 220-m long white shell sand beach that you simply have to visit. 

The beach is an ecological reserve, which sadly means visitors can’t access its sandy shores. But you can walk along the viewing deck and even down to the rocky shore to admire it a bit closer. What really makes this beach so unique is that 97.7% of the sand here is formed from seashells and coral debris. 

Make sure to also pop into the exhibition center to view the shell sand up close and learn a little more about the ecology of Kenting’s gorgeous beaches. 

Eat Ice Cream at Day by Day

Nothing beats delicious ice cream on a hot summer’s day in Taiwan . And if you happen to be exploring Route 26, you should definitely pop by Day by Day (see  Google Maps ). 

Day by Day is located just past Shell Beach, on the same grounds as the cool Ocean Day by Day Hotel. The cute vintage ice cream truck serves lip-smacking delicious ice cream and drinks, and there’s an outdoor area with lots of room to enjoy your treats as you gaze over the ocean.

The ice cream truck is open from 12 pm to 5 pm. You have to buy an entry ticket (NTD 90), but it can be used to purchase goodies at the truck. Try the Gang Kou Milk Tea Ice Cream and the Sparkling Mango Ice Cream Float – both are delish! 

Have Sundowners at YagouBlue Rooftop 

If you continue along Route 26 towards Jialeshui, make a pit stop at Xinghai Fishing Harbor. It’s a nice spot to watch the fishing boats come and go, but there’s also an amazing little rooftop cafe here, YagouBlue Rooftop (see  Google Maps ). 

The cafe overlooks the harbor, and it’s a great place to have a coffee and some dessert while watching the sunset. This Kenting hidden gem is quite small, so it can be hard to get a seat. Therefore if you want to go, it’s best to phone ahead (08-8801198) to check if they have any seats available. Reservations aren’t allowed. 

The cafe is only open from 3:30 pm to 6 pm, weather permitting. 

How To Get to Kenting

Kenting is easy to reach with Taiwan’s excellent public transport system. Like elsewhere in Taiwan, buses and trains are frequent and reliable modes of transport. However, the only way to get to Kenting from Taipei or other parts along Taiwan’s western coast is to use a combination of transport modes.

First you’ll need to get to Kaohsiung . And the easiest way to do that is to take the HSR to Zouying Station (the very last stop on the high-speed rail). Once you get to the high-speed rail station, getting to Kenting from Kaohsiung is pretty straightforward. There are several ways to travel, but the easiest one is to take the Kenting Express Bus . The ticket office is located at Exit 2 of the HSR station.

Kenting Shuttle Bus return tickets cost NTD 600 and are open-ended, meaning you can use the return ticket anytime. The bus drivers do not speak much English, but there are random announcements in English. So, be sure to listen carefully. You could also check with your accommodation (before arriving) which stop to get off at.

Tip: If you only want to buy a one-way bus ticket, I highly recommend using an Easy card as it works out a lot cheaper.

How To Get Around Kenting

Getting around Kenting village is extremely easy, as most of the shops, restaurants, and even the beach (Little Bay) is a short stroll from  Kenting Street . 

However, the majority of the main attractions in Kenting, such as Maobitao, Longpan Park, and Chuanfanshi will require transport.

If you haven’t rented a car, the easiest way to get around Kenting is by scooter. There are tons of scooter shops scattered around town where you can rent a motorcycle for TWD 450-550 a day. I highly recommend Feng-Xiang Motorcycle Rental (see Google Maps ). The owner speaks excellent English and is super friendly and helpful.

You will need a valid local license or an international driver’s license for a scooter to rent a scooter in Kenting (and everywhere else in Taiwan). If that is not an option for you, you may still be able to rent an electric bike (at some shops).

Alternatively, the local bus runs along the main road, which will get you to Chuanfanshi and Nanwan Beach but not to places like Maobitou. Grab a 1 or 2 day pass here . To see places a bit further afield, joining a tour will be your best bet.

Where to Stay

Kenting has no shortage of great accommodation options , from cheap hostels to boutique hotels to luxury beachfront resorts.  I’ve written an entire guide on exactly where to stay in Kenting , but if you’re in a rush here are a few pointers.

Most people stay in the heart of Kenting, near Kenting Street . And, if it’s your first visit to Kenting, it’s best to do the same. That way, you’ll be right in the center of town, with lots of shops and eateries around you.

It is, however, imperative to know that Kenting is a popular holiday destination for locals and tourists alike. And as a result, it is often crowded , especially on weekends and special holidays.

If crowds aren’t for you, rather stay along Dawan Road . Other great areas with minimal crowds include Chuanfanshi and Nanwan , but it’s best to have transport when staying there.

Recommended Hotels near Kenting Street:

• Budget: Hido Hotel
• Mid-range: Kenting Sea Wall 112 or Howard Beach Resort
• Lux: Caesar Park Hotel or Chateau Beach Resort

Recommended Chuanfanshi Hotels :

• Budget: Jin Yan Hostel
• Mid-Range:  Chuanfan Haku Beach Days Inn
• Lux:   866 Oceanic View Villa

Where to Eat in Kenting

Besides the night market, there are a couple of other nice places to eat in Kenting. Here are some of my favorites.

• Amy’s Cucina  on Kenting Street makes some of the best pizza in Taiwan. Seriously. If pizza is not your thing, try the lasagne. 
• Bossa Nova Beach Cafe  in Nanwan   has a great selection of western and Asian cuisine. The food is reasonably priced, and the outdoor seating is amazing. Try the Caesar Nova salad!
• Lumi Cafe  is a cozy little cafe that serves vegan cakes and other sweet treats.
• Under Star Lab  is a lovely modern bistro with a tantalizing menu. Great for brunch!
• Magic Kitchen ( 魔法廚房複合式早餐) makes simple yet  oh-so-delicious  Taiwanese-style breakfast burgers, sandwiches, and  dan bing .
• Haku Cafe on Chuanfan Road is a cozy Instagrammable cafe overlooking the ocean. Don’t miss their croffles!
• Wild Kid Bar at Nanwan is an awesome spot to enjoy a boozy cocktail or an ice cold beer while watching the waves come and go.
• Alex Reggae Bar makes the most amazing barbecued chicken wings and pork ribs. You’ll need to wait a bit for your order, but it’s totally worth it!
• Pizza Swell is basically a food truck, but they make delicious pizzas. There are a few tables and chairs set up next to the truck, but for an awesome experience, walk down to Little Bay and enjoy your pizza on the beach!

Other Things To Do Near Kenting

If you have a few extra days to spare on your Kenting itinerary or want to see a bit more of Southern Taiwan, here are some places worth checking out near Kenting:

• Hengchun  is the closest town to Kenting. It’s famous for its Old Street and Ancient City Gate.
• Cikong Waterfall:  A secret cascading waterfall where you can actually swim! You’ll need to hike to get to the waterfall, but the effort will be worth it!
• Jialeshui  is a laidback surfer’s town where you can take surfing lessons, chill at the beach, or kayak along the Gangkou River. 
• Orchid Island/ Green Island:   Most people don’t know this, but you can actually take a ferry from Houbihu Harbor to Orchid Island and Green Island.  See details or book tickets here.  
• Kaohsiung:  Taiwan’s third largest city is the place to go if you’re into street art, cool cafes, riverside walks, and temple hopping. Check out my list of best things to do in Kaohsiung , this  2-day Kaohsiung itinerary , or this  Kaohsiung sightseeing ideas guide.
• Tainan:  Taiwan’s ancient capital city is a hub for foodies and culture seekers, with more than 1000 temples to explore! Find out what to do in Tainan here. 
• Xiaoliuqiu:  A tiny coral island where you can swim with sea turtles, lounge on dreamy beaches, go freediving or snorkeling, and explore some pretty impressive caves. Read my super detailed  Xiaoliuqiu guide  for more tips. 

What To Do in Kenting in Conclusion

Kenting is one of the most beautiful places in Taiwan, with so much to see and do! Whether you want to relax at the gorgeous beaches, see all the tourist spots, or try the snacks at the night market, a visit to Kenting will not disappoint.

Well, that wraps up this guide on what to do in Kenting! If you think I’ve missed any must-do things or popular Kenting attractions, let me know in the comments so that I can check them out on my next visit!

Loved this post? Maybe your friends will, too. Share What to do in Kenting with them here.

join the club

You’ll also love.

June 7, 2017 at

I was born in Taiwan, but I immigrated to Canada when I was little. So still have not had a chance to visit Kenting, just yet. Your photos are super gorgeous though and that seafood looks so mouth-watering. I’m currently drooling in front of my laptop! Hahahaha.

Haha, thanks Jas! Hope you get a chance to come one day! 😊

June 8, 2017 at

I’ve been thinking of going to Taiwan. I had no idea the beaches were so beautiful. Makes me want to go!

June 1, 2023 at

Kenting has been on my bucket list for sme time already. But Taiwan applied some severe corona rules. What is the situation today. I am travelling through Hong Kong. Do I still need PCR test, or any special document to enter the country ?

June 5, 2023 at

Hey Patrick, Taiwan has scrapped most of its Covid rules, so no, you do not need a PCR test anymore to enter the country.

Excellent pics, well captured and equally well narrated….

Wow, this is great info. I’ve seen good airfare to Taiwan and thought about going, but I have been intimidated. With your post here and in the rest of your Taiwan section, I feel like I have all the info I need to have an amazing journey as you did. Amazing pics too.

July 24, 2017 at

Thanks Tara, Taiwan is totally worth checking out! It is also becoming a hot spot for solo travel; it’s easy to get around and super safe. Hope you get a chance to make it out here, one day!

Taiwan is a place I have always wanted to go! Really good tips – saving this post! 🙂

June 9, 2017 at

I don’t know about that seafood but that reggae bar seems up my alley. Never realized how beautiful Taiwan was. Would love to make a trip there with my husband for sure.

June 16, 2017 at

Haha! The seafood is great here! You should give it a try! 😉 Thanks for stopping by, Kellyn.

Fabulous guide! Makes me want to visit Tawain!

June 10, 2017 at

This is very interesting. I would normally see people post pictures of the city. It is nice to discover Taiwan’s wonderful coast as well.

I’ve never been to Taiwan but I’ve always wanted to go! The beaches look stunning and your photos are beautiful 🙂

Thanks! Hope you get a chance to make it out here, one day!

June 12, 2017 at

Really cool place with a lot of IG worthy spots. The Night market is another great attraction, but won’t beat Thailand on that I guess.

Thanks Gokul. Taiwan is famous for it’s night markets. They are a bit different than the ones in Thailand, but totally worth a visit!

Absolutely stunning! So picturesque! I’d take tons of pictures at Chuanfan rock! Street food looks sumptuous as well!

June 15, 2017 at

This post literally comes as a breath of fresh air. Do not see many posts about Taiwan, especially ones on the seaside places. Kenting looks enchanting. I cannot have enough of the sea, your pictures have captured the beauty of the sea to stunning effect. The lighthouse is another thing that absolutely fascinates me, always love them, they have such a romantic aura around them.

Thank you Sandy. You are so right – most posts focus on Taipei (which is an awesome city btw). But, if you go beyond the hustle and bustle of city life, you will discover some pretty neat little places.

Kenting is very beautiful. Although haven’t been here, but I aspire to. That lighthouse seems to be so beautiful. I will love to climb up there and get a view of the beautiful sea from there. I visited a similar one in Mahabalipuram, India this year and totally loved it.

June 17, 2017 at

Vitamin Sea is a must when you have water like that. I have always enjoyed lighthouses. There is just something about them that I always enjoy. Markets are always fun to peruse and people watch. Having fresh seafood is always great as well! Truck Bars is a very interesting concept. Can they set up anywhere?

Most of the truck bars are located on a small stretch between the main market and the Howard Plaza Hotel. They can basically set up anywhere along the main night market street, but the ‘rent’ will depend on the location.

The way you have captured your photos is lovely 🙂 The beaches look wonderful, I would love to visit Taiwan at some point!

Taiwan is so close to my country (Philippines) but I have never been there yet. The beach is stunning and those rocks are just magnificent.

Thanks Ricci! You should totally check it out! Especially with flights being so cheap between the Philippines and Taiwan – you could easily pop over for a long weekend. Hope you get a chance to make it out here, one day!

June 19, 2017 at

That water looks so inviting! I would love to dip into it right now and enjoy the beach life. Thank you for adding the map on your post, it always helps in understanding where the place is located. Very nice post!

Kenting seems to have many attractions to offer visitors. Of course, the Vitamin Sea is a must especially with those beaches and blue waters. I cannot get enough of the beach. The lighthouse is an interesting attraction as well that I would love to see. Great post. I have not read about Kenting prior to this and loved reading about it.

Thanks Riely! I’m a total beach bum too – I could lie on the beach for days, swim, snorkel and scuba…now, that’s utter bliss!

August 24, 2017 at

Kenting seems so charming! I’d love to visit and enter the Eluanbi Lighthouse. Any tips on how to avoid crowds?

August 29, 2017 at

Most sights in Kenting are pretty crowded throughout the year, no matter the season. But as a rule try going early in the morning or after 3pm in the afternoon to avoid the tour groups. 🙂

December 28, 2022 at

very informative and your pictures are beautifully taken. I went to a few of the places that you mentioned above, before reading your article and now it added more meaning to where I had been. Excellent job!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser.

How to Get From Bali to Gili Islands

Trending now.

Follow @ Hoponworld

Travel guides

• Travel Guides
• Itineraries
• City Guides
• Beach Guides
• Outdoor Guides
• Tips & Inspo

Get exclusive access to detailed travel guides & tips!

Work with me

• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Hoponworld · Theme by 17th Avenue

updated on April 12, 2023

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

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

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to 500$ on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

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.

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

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.

Food & Drink

Sample the best tea in the world with culture trip.

See & Do

Travel-starved tourists are taking fake flights in taiwan.

The Best Taiwanese Desserts You Need To Try 

A Guide to Cijin Island, Taiwan

Architecture

Taipei's newest arts venue has an incredible spherical concert hall.

Guides & Tips

How to spend a perfect week in taiwan.

Culture Trip Wishlist: 5 Cities for Historical Tourism in 2019

The Most Interesting and Historic Landmarks in Taiwan

Experiences You Can Only Have in Taiwan

When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Taichung?

The Top 10 Things to Do in Taipei, Taiwan

An Art Lover's Guide to Taipei

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

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

Our local experts can design your trip based on your preferences

Warning - You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to properly view this website.

• Destinations
• Asia pacific
• Southern taiwan

Southern Taiwan travel guide

Outside the main cities, Tainan and Kaohsiung, Southern Taiwan is primarily agricultural. The far south is tropical, blessed with soft, sandy beaches. Tainan is Taiwan’s Kyoto, while Kaohsiung is an industrial port city working hard on its cultural-creative side.

Tainan, th e island’s fourth-largest city , is clean and cultured, combining a modern social scene with a deep respect for tradition in a maze of narrow lanes and an abundance of historic sites. South of here, t he city of Kaohsiung’s urban core and rural hinterland offer intrigue, with remarkable temples, interesting colonial relics, and quality outdoor leisure pursuits. The area around Taitung city offers a soothing mix of indigenous culture, invigorating hot springs, unspoiled forests, and harmonious temples.

Tropical highlights

Off the southeast coast of Taiwan are two small islands, Ludao and Lanyu : the first is worth visiting for its stunning natural scenery, and the second for its unyieldingly traditional way of life. Meanwhile, in the far south, the Kending area is Taiwan’s tropical playground , with sun-kissed beaches and natural splendors galore. 

Places to visit in Southern Taiwan

The tropical landscape at kending.

The attractions of Kenting National Park (also known as Kending), a largely unspoiled, sun-kissed natural playground, include exotic flora and fauna, stunning views, dramatic geographical formations, and fine beaches. Read more...

Cutting-edge Kaohsiung and the fertile southwest

Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s industrial showcase and a city of superlatives. It is Taiwan’s largest international seaport, its major industrial center, and its largest container port.

After Taipei, Kaohsiung has Taiwan’s most active nightlife. The busy but pleasant Liuhe Night Market on Liuhe 2nd Road, some blocks south of the railway station, offers plenty of food stalls and many bargains. Here you can savor a few of the numerous local culinary specialties famous around the island.

The southwest is Taiwan’s "Big Sky" country, a fertile land of big skies and open spaces, and within sight of Kaohsiung’s skyscrapers the visitor enters a slower-paced realm of big vistas, small settlements, old community temples, and great swathes of sugarcane, fruit trees, and betel-nut trees, which serve as evidence of a traditional culture that revels in its agricultural roots as it meshes, selectively, with the 21st century.

Taitung, in a region of extremes

Because of the east coast’s slower pace of economic development, the tribespeople in this region have managed to retain some of their traditional habits and customs, a solid sense of historical and cultural continuity, and a strong sense of community and solidarity. The region’s weather is far less predictable, seas are rougher, hot springs are hotter, mountains higher, butterflies bigger, and the people more robust than in the tamer regions of Taiwan. 

The city is not much of a traveler’s destination in itself, but is a convenient springboard for excursions to nearby places such as Ludao (Green Island), Lanyu (Orchid Island), Huadong Zonggu Guojia Fengjingqu (East Rift Valley National Scenic Area), and the Dongbuhaian Guojia Fengjingqu (East Coast National Scenic Area; www.eastcoast-nsa.gov.tw ).

Meanwhile, tucked against the mountainside at the mouth of a rugged canyon, along the rocky Zhiben River, is Zhiben Hot Springs, one of Taiwan’s oldest and most remote hot-spring resorts. 

Traditional Tainan

Taiwan’s southwest is recognized – even in the self-confident north – as the cradle of the island’s culture and traditions. Tainan is to Taiwan what Kyoto is to Japan, and Kyongju to Korea. The city was capital of the island from 1683 to 1885.

While Tainan is one of Taiwan’s most socially progressive cities, it is also decidedly its most traditional. A maze of narrow lanes, courtyards, and garden walls are tucked around hundreds of shrines and temples. Native bai-bai religious worship festivals are observed far more frequently and extravagantly than in the north. 

As the most ‘civilized’ city in Taiwan, Tainan naturally excels in that most civilized of all Chinese pursuits – food. After dinner, many Tainanese retire to sip coffee at the cozy, chic cafés found all over the city, or relish a cup of tea in one of Tainan’s unique teahouses. 

The islands of Ludao and Lanyu

A tiny speck in a huge rolling sea, at 16 sq km (6 sq miles), Ludao has been developed for tourism over the past decade or so. The waters and reefs around Ludao are excellent for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and shell collecting. Perhaps the island’s main attraction is a natural phenomenon seen almost nowhere else on earth – a saltwater hot spring.

Lanyu is the most unlikely jewel in the waters surrounding Taiwan. An island of steep mountains soaring high above valleys and rocky, rugged shores, this emerald isle covers an area of 45 sq km (17 sq miles). It is 60km (37 miles) east of Taiwan’s southern tip, 80km (50 miles) southeast of Taitung and is home to more than 2,900 Dao (also called Yami). With colorful costumes and a strongly matriarchal society, the Dao are often regarded as the northernmost extent of Polynesian ancestry. 

Six villages dot the island; the traditional dwellings can now only be seen in two, on the east coast. The coastal rock formations, eroded by weather and water, are particularly impressive, with rocks shaped like lions, dragons, and turtles. 

See all of our recommended places to visit in Taiwan...

Average customers rating

{{_ "pagesAdmin.destinations.overviewCulturalFeaturesIn"}} {{currentName}}

{{_ "pagesAdmin.destinations.overviewViewAllFeatures"}} {{currentName}}

{{_ "pagesAdmin.destinations.overviewHistoricalHighlights"}} {{currentName}}

{{_ "pagesAdmin.destinations.overviewViewAllHighlights"}} {{currentName}}

Read more from the travel guide to Taiwan

• Top attractions
• Cultural features

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
• Southern Taiwan
• Accessible Travel
• Scenic Spots
• Hot Springs
• Night markets & old streets
• Historic Sites
• Recreational Areas
• Senior Travel
• Northern Taiwan
• Central Taiwan
• Eastern Taiwan
• Offshore Islands
• Decrease font size
• Increase font size

Southern Taiwan is full of history and culture. Tainan City is the island's oldest city. Until the late 19th century, it had also been a political, economic and cultural hub. Thus, the city features plenty of historic sites. The Tropic of Cancer passes through Chiayi County, and thus Tropic of Cancer Solar Exploration Center has been built to highlight the city's unique geographical trait. World-famous Alishan Forest Recreation Park boasts high-elevation forest railways and off-the-beaten-track old hiking trails, making it a must-see for visitors in Taiwan.

It is warm like the summer all year round in Southern Taiwan. In Pingtung, Kenting Park is ideal for scenic scuba diving and all sorts of other water activities. Eluanbi, the southernmost tip of Taiwan, offers magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean on its left and the Taiwan Strait on its right.

Last update time：

20 Places to Visit in Taiwan that I’m Obsessed With

In this article, I’ve shortlisted my 20 favorite destinations in Taiwan. It wasn’t easy!

After living in Taiwan for over 10 years, writing a book about it, introducing Taiwan’s attractions to the likes of BBC Travel, CNN, and National Geographic, and running a Facebook group about Taiwan Travel Planning , I’d like to think that I know Taiwan fairly well.

In this article, I’m really sticking to the sights that I truly love. Some are super obvious and famous, while others are off-the-beaten-track. All of them are places that I’m legitimately obsessed with and will keep returning to again and again.

Table of Contents

My Top-5 Places in Taiwan

Here I’ve hand-picked my personal top-five places to visit in Taiwan.

Taipei – The City with Everything

OK, so I’m biased (I lived in Taipei city , well technically New Taipei City , for a quarter of my life). But I freakin love Taipei.

Taiwan’s capital has it all: the best night markets in the country , the most famous attractions ( Taipei 101 , Longshan Temple , CKS Memorial Hall, Maokong Gondola , Elephant Mountain ), and the coolest neighborhoods ( Ximending , Dadaocheng , Tamsui, and more).

And there’s more – the biggest events, the best public transportation, the top restaurants, cherry blossom viewing , and hikes galore .

On its doorstep, it has active volcanoes in Yangmingshan National Park , hot springs at Beitou , beaches, aboriginal villages , tea plantations , and atmospheric old streets like this one .

You can never run out of things to do in this city, and that’s why I will never grow tired of exploring it. It’s no wonder it has chosen as the best city in the world for expats several times !

Most visitors start and/or end their Taiwan trip in Taipei. It’s even tempting to use the city as a base for your whole trip (see my recommended hotels ), but I do urge you to get out at some point – we still have 19 more awesome places to cover!

Alishan Region – Tea Farms & Bamboo Forests

It’s no secret that I’m in love with Alishan region in Chiayi county . I have a personal connection to Chiayi – it’s my wife’s ancestral hometown and we usually go there to visit her family for Lunar New Year.

I’ve been raving Alishan for years and the articles I’ve written about the area have helped to popularize some of its small villages among foreign visitors – I know because people tell me all the time in my Facebook group that they went there because of me.

Most tourists gravitate to Alishan National Forest Recreation Area (even though getting there is a little complicated). It is known for its misty forests of ancient hinoki cypress trees, iconic Alishan Forest Railway Line, and stunning sunrises.

My personal favorite spot, however, is Shizhuo village , where I love staying in accommodations on tea plantations and hiking through tea farm. The tea produced there is Alishan High Mountain Oolong Tea , the country’s most famous.

I also love the cute market town of Fenqihu, with its fireflies, railway bento boxes, and bamboo forests. And we can’t forget about the epic sunrises and sunsets on Eryanping Trail .

I even have a plan to someday retire and open a killer guesthouse in Alishan region, so watch for that (in like 1 or 2 decades…). That’s how much I love this area!

Penghu Islands – Best Beaches

It’s super tough to choose only one of Taiwan’s offshore islands to put in my top-5. But that honor goes to the Penghu archipelago , which lies in the middle of the Taiwan Strait (the body of water between China and Taiwan).

Riding a scooter around the islands of Penghu – which include four main connected ones and many smaller ones – is one of my single favorite things to do in Taiwan.

Penghu has a unique, windswept landscape, with edible purple cacti (they make sorbet out of them!), the best beaches I’ve seen in the country , traditional courtyard homes made of coral, ancient heart-shaped weirs for catching fish, and towering volcanic basalt columns.

On top of all that, Penghu has the country’s best fireworks festival, which goes for several months from spring to summer, and some excellent snorkelling and scuba diving.

Oh, and did I mention it’s super easy to get to? There are oven a dozen flights every day from Taipei’s city-center Songshan Airport!

I’ve been to Penghu three times and would happily return at the drop of a hat.

The East Coast – The Ultimate Road Trip

The entire East Coast of Taiwan is more than just one place, but I’m lumping it together here because you’ll likely tackle it in one go – here’s how to rent a car and drive in Taiwan . For all the details, see my part 1 and part 2 guides to road tripping the east coast . But of course you can do it by train, too!

Taiwan’s east coast is wild, sparsely populated, and breathtakingly gorgeous. The continental shelf is just off the coast, so within a surprisingly short distance, towering mountains drop off to coastal buffs and continue descending rapid off the coast.

Currents are strong and that’s why you can’t swim on most east coast beaches – but you can spot whales there !

Starting from one of Taiwan’s best seafood harbors, Nanfangao, the highway passes the dramatic Qingshui Cliffs and the entrance to Taroko Gorge (Taroko is currently closed for an estimated one year due to the April 3, 2024 earthquake, but here are things you can still do in Hualien ).

South of Hualien city, the main base for visiting the region, Highway 9 follows the train line through the East Rift Valley. My favorite stops are Chishang for cycling among the rice paddies and Luye for tea farms and the incredible International Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Meanwhile, Highway 11 runs down the practically uninhabited coast, with Sanxiantai (Dragon’s Backbone Bridge) and Dulan surf town being the major highlights.

Southern Hualien and Taitung county are Taiwan’s most laid-back region and home to the highest concentration of aboriginal peoples. While it may lack the big-name attractions of other parts of Taiwan, I suggest you slow down here and really take it all in.

Tainan – Temple Hopping in the Old Capital

Taiwan’s original capital, Tainan , remains the country’s heart and soul and arguably the most authentically Taiwanese city. The history nerd and temple junkie in me will always keep me coming back to Tainan.

It will come as no surprise that Tainan has the country’s best collection of ancient temples and historic attractions. The Confucius Temple stands out as the most popular, but there are dozens of others, dedicate to concubines, the sea goddess, gods of water, wind, and medicine, and many more.

Over in Anping district , Anping Fort and Anping Tree House are also musts, while Anping Old Street is one of the country’s oldest and most traditional.

Not far out of the city, Sicao Green Tunnel is a good introduction to the marshlands and rare migratory birds of Taijiang National Park, Luermen Tianhou Temple is enormous, Cigu Salt Mountain is bizarre, Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields are stunning, and Guanziling Mud Hot Springs are one-of-a-kind.

Locals will also tell you that Tainan is the culinary capital of Taiwan. I love stepping into Tainan’s hole-in-the-wall shops and night markets to sample unique dishes like eel noodles, oyster rolls, Spanish mackerel stew, and traditional ice cream with fruit.

Other Destinations I Love to Visit

Here’s are 15 more Taiwanese attractions that I’ll never grow tired of visiting.

The Pingxi Line – Best Taipei Day Trips

The Pingxi Line is one of several old railway lines in Taiwan which have been converted from transporting timber and coal to transporting tourists.

The Pingxi Line is the closest one to Taipei and provides access to several extremely popular tourist attractions but also some great off-the-beaten-track ones.

On the touristy side, Jiufen Old Street (access from Ruifang Station, with train connections to Taipei) and Shifen Old Street (famous for its sky lanterns and Shifen Waterfall ) are two of the most popular tourist attractions in Taiwan – expect serious crowds.

However, my personal favorites include Badouzi (for Shen’ao Rail Bike ), Houtong Cat Village (I’ve been there a ridiculous number of times), Sandiaoling (my favorite waterfall hike in Taiwan), Pingxi (for the thrilling Pingxi Crags hike and known for Pingxi Lantern Festival ), and Jingtong (an off-the-beaten-track old street).

Yilan – Hot Springs & Kid-Friendly Activities

Yilan is a county on the northeast coast of Taiwan which is fully loaded with fun activities and attractions, especially for kids. This is why it is a favorite weekend getaway for Taipei families, mine included.

Jiaoxi village is home to some of the kid-friendliest hot spring spas in Taiwan – think hot spring slides, bright pink bubble gum or oolong tea scented thermal pools, and foot-skin-nibbling fish ponds. Jiaoxi also has waterfall hikes and hot springs ramen, where you can soak your feet while you eat.

Then there’s Luodong, which has some of the best minsus (local guesthouses) in Taiwan, like this one , and an excellent night market . We choose here as a base for taking our kids to leisure farms like Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm , eating green onion cakes at Sanxing, and trips to Taipingshan (see below).

On top of all that, Yilan has Northern Taiwan’s best surf beach at Wai’ao, award winning whiskey at Kavalan Distillery , a great brewery at Jim & Dad’s, and several excellent museums.   

Kaohsiung – Arts & Temples

Kaohsiung people hate me for not raving about their city as much as I do about Taipei. But they have a point – Kaohsiung is undeniably a cooler, more laid-back, and less pretentious city than Taipei, and I do love it, too.

Taiwan’s largest port city is also without a doubt the country’s street art capital. My favorite place is Pier 2 Art Center , where creative art installations line the docks, especially when they are lit up at night.

Everywhere I go in the city, I’m always stumbling upon amazing new murals covering entire sides of buildings – the city activity encourages graffiti. Weiwuying has a whole neighborhood covered in it. Dome of Art in Formosa Boulevard is also mesmerizing, while Cijin Island ’s coast is lined with art installations.

Kaohsiung is also about the grandiose – from the kitschy temples and god statues on Lotus Pond to Fo Guang Shan , the country’s largest monastery and Buddha statue, where I enjoyed an eye-opening temple stay many years ago.

One of my favorite souvenirs from Taiwan is the Hakka paper umbrella that I bought from Meinong Folk Village in Kaohsiung.

I admit that I don’t know Kaohsiung as well as many other parts of Taiwan – I have yet to visit the hot springs of Guguan, the huge seafood harbors on the coast, or see the swarms of purple butterflies at Maolin – many reasons for me to keep coming back.

Hehuanshan – Hiking & Sunrises  

Hehuanshan in Nantou is Taiwan’s most accessible high mountain area. There’s nowhere else in Taiwan, or in all of East Asia for that matter, where you can literally drive a car or take a public bus to 3275 meters above sea level (Wuling Pass).

Hehuanshan consists of five high mountain peaks, all of which are much easier to climb than almost all the other 100 Peaks of Taiwan.

I recently had an incredible stay at historic Songsyue Lodge , built for former president Chiang Kai-Shek at the base of the only ski resort Taiwan has ever had. That’s right – it even snows at Hehuanshan, at least once every year. When it happens, tourists and locals alike flock to see it.

Staying at the lodge, I witnessed one of the most beautiful sunrises I’ve ever seen, from right in front of the accommodation. It’s not easy to get a room there (click my link above to find out how), so many will stay at Cingjing Farm nearby and do a morning sunrise tour.

Lukang – Traditional Taiwanese Culture

Like a smaller and more off-the-beaten-track version of Tainan, Lukang in Changhua is a small town with loads of history.

Because a train line was never built to it (they didn’t want it), Lukang remains decidedly traditional to this day. It has some of the country’s best preserved ancient temples, a new temple made of glass, and a quirky temple with odd decorations and tunnels below it.

Lukang Old Street is also one of the country’s most traditional, with food specialties like miancha (flour tea), phoenix eye cakes, ox tongue cookies, and shrimp monkeys.

There are often traditional temple parades and festivals going on in Lukang, while the town’s Dragon Boat Festival celebrations are better than anywhere else in the country.

Yushan – Taiwan’s Tallest Peak

In my first year of living in Taiwan (2008), I joined a guided hike to the peak of Jade Mountain (Yu Shan), the tallest mountain in Northeast Asia. It beats out Mt. Fuji by 176 meters!

Yushan National Park is Taiwan’s largest non-marine national park. Most of it is remote and inaccessible. Biologists have even called it “The Ark” as it is a repository for rare species, including Formosan black bears and flying squirrels.

Needless to say, Yushan was one of the most incredible places I’ve visited in Taiwan. Sunrise from the peak was an experience I’ll never forget.

We were surrounded by seas of clouds in all directions, as the sun rose majestically above the horizon. On clear days, you can see as far as the sea.

The North Coast – Beaches & Harbors

Since this is supposed a list of places in Taiwan that I love to repeatedly visit, I can’t leave out the beaches on the North coast of Taiwan .

Because most of these can be reached in only one or two hours from Taipei, I return to them again and again every year. They may not be as picture-perfect as the beaches in the far south or on the offshore islands, but they are super convenient for a capital city dweller like me.

Qianshuiwan is my go-to place for easy access and restaurant-bars by the sea. Baishawan is a little further but a little better, while Fulong Beach stands out as the prettiest, not to mention its awesome sandcastle festival.

Besides beaches, I love cliff diving at Longdong (also known for rock climbing and scuba diving), feasting on seafood at Guihou Harbor (near the super popular Yehliu Geopark ), photographing Laomei Green Reef, swimming at the seawater pool on Heping Island in Keelung , and finishing off at Keelung Night Market , my favorite night market in Taiwan.

Sun Moon Lake – Aboriginal Culture & Tea Farms

Sun Moon Lake is probably the most divisive major tourist attraction in Taiwan – visitors either love it or hate it.

If you only do the tourist things at Sun Moon Lake – like riding a boat across the lake and taking the Ropeway to Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village , then you might hate find it too touristy.

However, there are many gems around the lake, too. The tea plantations north of the lake make insanely good black tea (a rarity in a country that produces mostly oolong). The lake views from the top of Wenwu Temple or Ci’En Pagoda are unbeatable.  

For authentic aboriginal culture, avoid Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village and head to Ita Thao village instead.

The Thao Tribe Performance Center there is trying its best to preserve a culture which is on the verge of extinction (it’s one of Taiwan’s smallest tribes), while the food street in Ita Thao is one of the easiest places in Taiwan to try Taiwanese aboriginal foods and millet wine.

I love hopping on a bike at Sun Moon Lake. CNN has even called the paths around the lake one of the best cycling trips in the world (though I sort of feel that’s an exaggeration).

Last but not least, Shuiyuan Suspension Bridge south of the lake is quite possible the country’s most beautiful one, but it’s not super easy to get to.

Green Island – Scuba & Salty Hot Springs

Green Island off the coast of Taitung is another of my favorite offshore islands in Taiwan. This former penal colony stands out for me in two big ways today.

First, Green Island has some excellent snorkelling and scuba diving – the best I’ve done in Taiwan, but I haven’t tried it everywhere.

Secondly, Zhaori Hot Spring on Green Island is one of my favorite hot springs in the whole country . This is one of only three saltwater hot springs in the world. The hot spring pools are right on the coast, with some of the lowest pools right next to the sea.

Lying in one of those pools at night, gazing at stars to the sound of waves splashing into the hot pool, was one of my most sublime experiences in all my years of living in Taiwan.  

Taipingshan – Hiking on Old Logging Railways

As the fourth mountain on my list, you may be starting to gather that I really love the mountains in Taiwan.

Taipingshan is like Alishan’s lesser known cousin, among foreign tourists at least. It too is a former logging region-turned-tourist attraction.

The must-do tourist attraction at Taipingshan is taking a ride on the cutely named (and cute looking) Bong Bong Train. My personal favorite hike there is Jianqing Haigu Trail, which follows an old mining railway line that is now twisted and overgrown with vegetation.

Another highlight of visiting Taipingshan is hitting Jiuzhize Hot Spring on the down the mountain back to central Yilan. For a few bucks, you can cook your own hot spring eggs in the boiling thermal waters.

The public springs at Jiuzhize there are awesome,, too, with multiple private elevated tubs in the main pool. There’s an open air nude bath, too, if that’s your jam.

For the best experience, you’ll need to drive, hire a private driver , or take a tour to Taipingshan. There’s only one bus per day and it limits how much you can see.

Lion’s Head Mountain – Sleeping in a Temple

Shitoushan or “ Lion’s Head Mountain ” is an off-the-beaten-track destination on the border between Hsinchu and Miaoli in Central Taiwan.

This small mountain is dotted with Buddhist and Taoist temples, some of which are built into caves. The coolest thing about hiking this mountain is that you can sleep in one of the temples, Quanhua Temple on the Miaoli side.

I’ve slept in this temple a couple times, including once with my kids. Both times, I/we were the only ones there, making it a truly serene experience.

Nearby, Nanzhuang Old Street is one of the coolest old streets in Taiwan. It’s famous for its sweet osmanthus shaved ice and Hakka-style dried tofu.

This part of Miaoli is known for slow travel and for its many traditional minsus (guesthouses). We loved staying at this one and this one .

Orchid Island – Unique Aboriginal Culture

Lanyu (Orchid Island) is another remarkable offshore island in Taiwan. This one is best known as the home of the Tao people, Taiwan’s most isolated and traditional aboriginal tribe.

Tao culture is the main draw here – including the chance to see traditional hand-carved canoes, Tao underground houses, and activities related to the Flying Fish Festival, which takes place throughout spring.

Two of my best friends and I had a blast scootering around Lanyu and spotting the countless roaming goats on the island.

Orchid Island also has some great swimming holes, rock formations, and scuba diving. It’s best to fly here from Taitung, as the ferry ride is extra bumpy. Also, avoid winter, when almost everything shuts down.

Neiwan Old Street – Hakka Culture & Hot Springs

Neiwan Old Street is probably my favorite of Taiwan’s many old streets. Neiwan is the terminal stop on the Neiwan Line, another cute small train lines – this one sets out from Hsinchu.

Neiwan is an old Hakka village and former mining/logging town. Today, the old street is one of the best places in Taiwan to sample leicha or “pounded tea”. It is made by pounding tealeaves with various seeds, nuts, and spices, adding hot water, topped with puffed rice, and usually served with mochi.

The old street also has extremely delicious Hakka dried tofu and a famous old theater.

Nearby, my family and I loved spending a weekend camping or visiting hot springs in Jianshi district. This is a remote, aboriginal district with gorgeous scenery and some excellent hot spring spas like this one .

Kenting National Park – Beachy Getaway

In my early years in Taiwan, we used to make the annual journey down to Kenting National Park for Spring Scream Music Festival on the April long weekend .

Kenting occupies the southern tip of the country and has the best beaches and beach resorts on all of mainland Taiwan.

While Spring Scream has long ended and is now replaced with a free music festival put on by the local government on the main beach, it is still the unofficial place to party and laze on the beach for spring break.

Kenting’s beaches can feel a little crowded, but for me, it has always been a part of the package. I love Kenting Night Market , the only place in Taiwan you’ll see cocktail vendors wearing beach attire and blasting electronic music.

I also love cycling or scootering along the Kenting coast, finding new spots to try seafood, and hiking to natural infinity pools in the jungle . Thrill seekers can also try surfing, scuba diving, jet skiing, and more.

Xiaoliuqiu – Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

I’m finishing off this list with yet another offshore island. It’s one of the smallest but also best, and it goes by many names – Little Okinawa, Lambai Island, or as the locals say, Xiaoliuqiu .

Xiaoliuqiu’s biggest draw is its resident population of nearly a thousand giant sea turtles. You’re pretty much guaranteed to see them if you try – my kids and I even saw them swimming in the harbor from our hotel room balcony .

Even better, we had an intimate encounter snorkeling with the turtles in water – my kids’ first time ever snorkeling. Freediving is also very popular on Xiaoliuqiu.

The island is so small that you can scooter or cycling around it without difficulty, yet there are many little secret beaches and coves to explore.

Read This Before Renting a Car and Driving in Taiwan!

What to eat at ningxia night market in taipei (with map), 2 thoughts on “20 places to visit in taiwan that i’m obsessed with”.

Another excellent article! As someone who is also Taiwan obsessed, I appreciate you sharing your experiences. I will return to Taipei this May and your blog is giving me so much hype!

Thank you so much!

Leave a Comment

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

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

17 Things to See and Do in Taiwan

I lived in Taiwan for a few months as an English teacher. I loved my time there and have always felt the country was really under-appreciated. Carrie Kellenberger is an expat who has been living in Taiwan for ten years. She runs My Several Worlds and in this guest post she lists out all the amazing things you should see and do there!

Every country in Asia is beautiful, but Taiwan is special for many reasons. The people are warm and hospitable, it’s incredibly budget-friendly , and, according to the UN’s yearly World Happiness Report, Taiwan consistently ranks as one of the happiest places in East Asia .

While it might be a small island, you would be amazed at the never-ending variety of sights and fun things to do here. With over a hundred mountain peaks above 3,000 meters (9,800 feet), over a hundred hot springs scattered around the island, both golden and black-sand beaches, nine national parks, world-class museums, glittering skyscrapers, stunning temples, and a huge number of night markets that are second to none, Taiwan has something that everyone can enjoy.

Here’s my list of the best things to do Taiwan to help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

1. Eat, Eat Eat (Especially at the Night Markets)!

2. experience taiwanese tea culture, 3. check out the northern coastline, 4. hit the beaches, 5. soak in the hot springs, 6. go island hopping, 7. visit tainan, taiwan’s oldest city, 8. see old taiwan, 9. get off the beaten track on orchid island and green island, 10. explore the mountains, 11. go hiking in taroko national park, 12. head east, 13. witness some chaos, 14. see tianhou temple, 15. explore fo guang shan monastery, 16. visit a taiwanese aboriginal village, 17. take part in the pingxi lantern festival.

There are over 30 night markets in Taipei , New Taipei, and Keelung (and over 70 night markets across Taiwan). My personal favorites are Shilin, Keelung, and Raohe Street in Taipei.

Don’t miss eating xiao long bao, also known as soup dumplings, a favorite staple food here. They are made out of a thin pastry folded into a type of bag that is then stuffed full with a meat-and-vegetable mixture and a tiny amount of soup, then garnished with raw ginger and soy sauce. Biting into one of these is a flavor explosion in your mouth.

If you’d like to really dive deep into the different sides of Taiwanese cuisine, take a guided food tour . On this food tour, you’ll first dine at the Michelin-starred Din Tai Fung (famous for their xiao long bao) and then experience the Raohe Street night market, all with a local guide.  

The Taiwanese also have their own type of tea ceremony that takes elements from both Chinese and Japanese tea ceremonies while adding their own cultural flair. Here, tea ceremonies are less focused on the rules and more about bringing people together.

Jiufen, Jwu Jiu Teahouse, and Pinglin are some of the best places to visit if you want to sample tea and learn more about how it’s made. You can also ride the Maokong Gondola up a mountain to a secluded teahouse where you can take in the amazing views while enjoying some tea.  

Guided tours are also available . The benefit to these tours is that you’ll have someone explain what you’re seeing. Signage isn’t great. If you can, I would definitely recommend a guided tour.  

Beaches may not be the first thing that you think of when Taiwan comes to mind. But with almost 1,000 miles of coastline (it is an island after all!), a great beach is never that far away.

Each region of the country offers something different. For example, the north is best known for its golden and black-sand beaches, while Kenting on the southern tip of the island offers a lively beachside nightlife. White Sand Bay is the most popular and a great place to soak up the sun, swim, snorkel, or even go diving (just keep an eye out for jellyfish!). Other great beaches are South Bay and Little Bali Bay.  

As part of the Taipei metro area, Beitou is easily reachable by metro. Prices start at 60 TWD per person for a soak in Beitou Public Hot Spring, making it a very affordable choice for anyone looking for some R&R. If you’d like to splash out, there are plenty of more upscale hotels and resorts too.  

The beautiful islands of Penghu just off Taiwan’s western coastline comprise the biggest archipelago and are especially well known for their golden beaches. All of the islands are distinct, and you can take a boat that will drop you off at one island for a few hours and then take you to the next one, so you can literally go from snorkeling to observing sea turtles to wandering through traditional villages made out of coral in a single day.  

This is Taiwan’s oldest urban area, established by the Dutch East India Company in 1624. Located in the south near Kaohsiung, Tainan was the capital of Taiwan from 1683-1887. There are all kinds of temples to visit here (don’t miss the Confucius Temple), several night markets, a historic old town, and a massive department store reminiscent of the Ginza district in Tokyo. There is also a nearby mangrove and wildlife reserve (it’s part of Taijiang National Park) just 30 minutes away by car.  

Additionally, you’ll be able to see historical military sites like underground tunnels and bunkers hidden in the countryside, and visit insightful museums to learn more about the unique history of the islands. The region is also known as being the producer of Taiwan’s famous gaoliang (kaoliang) grain alcohol, made from fermented sorghum.  

Located just off the southeastern coast, these lush islands are a treat to visit. Here you’ll find hiking, swimming, and diving. The best way to explore these islands is by renting a scooter so that you can get further off the beaten path and have an adventure exploring at your own pace.

Green Island has amazing saltwater hot springs — one of only three such hot springs in the world! Orchid Island is home to the indigenous Tao people, Taiwan’s most isolated indigenous tribe. They’re best-known for their traditional hand-carved wooden canoes and underground homes.  

If you want to stretch your legs, climb to the summit of beautiful Jade Mountain and watch the sunrise (it takes two days to hike). This beautiful peak is almost 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level, giving it sweeping views in every direction.

Wuling Peak on Hehuan Mountain, around 3,275 meters (10,745 feet) above sea level, is another good hike for anyone looking to spend more time outdoors. But what really makes this place special is that the peak is so high, you can look down into a sea of clouds below!  

Ready for another city break? This national park covers 92,000 hectares (360 square miles) and offers visitors a chance to hike the numerous trails through mountainous terrain and dramatic gorges. You can stop to dip your feet in swiftly flowing mountain rivers and to marvel at the shrines and temples.

You can visit the park solo (which, if you’re staying in the nearby town, is easy to do) or as part of a full-day tour from Taipei . If you’re tight on time, the guided tour is the best option because it comes with transportation and a guide. Admission to the park is free.  

To really enjoy Taiwan’s majestic beauty, don’t forget Taiwan’s eastern coastline like most international visitors do! The east coast highway has some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the world, from plunging sea cliffs and splashing surf to beaches, nature reserves, and rural towns a world away from the big city.

For maximum flexibility, Taiwan’s East Coast is best explored on a road trip, though there are buses that go down the coast. There is also a train line that hugs the coast a bit when heading south from Taipei, though it then veers inland.  

The center of the neighborhood is the Red House, a well-known cultural landmark and marketplace where local artisans sell their wares. The massive outdoor plaza behind it is the epicenter of the city’s LGBTQ scene and is surrounded by many different welcoming bars and shops.

Give yourself bonus points for checking out all the super cool street art; you won’t find it on the main thoroughfares, but if you venture onto some of the smaller side streets, you’ll soon find yourself in a world of brightly decorated alleys and lanes.  

While you’re in Ximending, it’s worth stopping by one of the oldest temples in the city, Tianhou (also known as the Ximending Mazu Temple, after the in-house deity Mazu, goddess of the sea). Around since 1746, it’s one of three major temples in Taiwan from the Qing period. It’s located on a main thoroughfare but it’s very easy to miss the entrance.

Stepping through the entrance to this beautiful Taoist temple filled with mythological creatures, smoky incense, lucky goldfish, and people paying respect to the gods is truly a surreal experience. You’d never know this quiet oasis is in one of the busiest areas of Taipei !  

One of the central features of the complex is the Buddha Museum, which houses tooth relics of the Buddha himself along with various shrines, galleries, exhibitions, vegetarian restaurants, and even a Starbucks (really). Behind the museum lies the Great Path of Buddhahood, a broad pathway flanked by eight identical pagodas, leading up to the 108-meter-high golden Big Buddha.

I’ve been to many temples and monasteries in my lifetime, but this one takes the cake.  

If you can’t make it to Orchid Island (see above), there are plenty of other places to learn about indigenous Taiwanese tribes. The Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village near Sun Moon Lake is the most popular destination. It’s the largest outdoor museum in the country and is half cultural village, half amusement park. Each of the nine small villages in the park represent and are run by a different tribe. In each, you can watch cultural performances and see how a variety of traditional crafts are made.  

One of the coolest events in Taiwan, the Pingxi Lantern Festival involves releasing hundreds of paper lanterns into the sky. (Many newlyweds also include this meaningful tradition as a part of their wedding celebration.) If you don’t want to brave the crowds, you can easily purchase a lantern and light one on any of Taiwan’s beaches. This is one of the biggest events in all of Taiwan so be sure to get tickets in advance to avoid the ticket lines.

Taiwan is very environmentally friendly, so make sure you go with the eco-friendly paper lantern options that disintegrate, leaving no residue, and don’t cause fires. The company My Taiwan Tour also currently offers biodegradable paper lantern tours in Shifen.

There are many things about Taiwan that make it an incredible place to live; it’s easy to take some of those things for granted once you’ve been here for a while. I frequently hear that people think Taiwan is very Westernized, and while I agree that it is to some extent, there are still plenty of authentic Taiwanese experiences to be had!

Taiwan is and continues to be an unexpected travel destination that continues to delight visitors to this day. There is no place like it!

Canadian expat Carrie Kellenberger has been living in Asia since 2003. She moved to Taiwan in 2006 and became a permanent resident in 2012. She loves entertaining guests and travelers to Taiwan. You can read about her adventures and life there at her blog, My Several Worlds .

Book Your Trip to Taiwan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite places to stay are:

• Formosa 101
• Meander Taipei

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Taiwan? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Taiwan for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Taiwanese Secrets Travel Guide

17 Essential Things to Do in Taiwan!

What are the best things to do in Taiwan? Temples, beaches, mountains, islands, festivals, night markets… Taiwan has it all!

And the great thing about it is that only few travelers know Taiwan even exists. Somehow, Formosa has found a way to remain off the main tourist / backpacker trail in Asia. With so many amazing things to do, it’s a true mystery why Taiwan is not as popular a destination like Thailand or Japan.

The beautiful “Isla Formosa”, as it was called by the Portuguese, has such a rich diversity of amazing experiences to be lived, there are  so many  fun things to do in Taiwan, that it’s challenging to make a to-do list even if you have 2 or 3 full weeks to tour the island. I’ve been traveling around Taiwan for 17 years and still haven’t seen it all!

Throughout the years, I’ve received lots of emails from visitors enquiring about itineraries and “must-see” places and “must-do” adventures in Taipei or other destinations around the island. The 16 following things to do and places to see should be on your list if you visit Taiwan one day.

Table of Contents

1. Discover Taipei City

When people tell me they want to skip Taipei because it’s a big city with crazy traffic and lots of people, I tell them they should change their mind. The capital is an extremely pleasant city to visit, with sights that will make you wonder like no other place can. Must-sees in Taipei are the  National Palace Museum , the  101 Tower ,  Shilin Night Market ,  Chiang Kai-shek Memorial , and  Longshan Temple .

2. Marvel at the grandeur of Taroko Gorge

One of Asia’s most amazing natural wonders, Taroko Gorge offers plenty of opportunities for the adventurous traveler. Wether you’re hiking along a turquoise river at the bottom of thousand-feet-high marble walls, or along a tiny path that clings to a steep mountain side, you’re certain to bring back tons of stunning pictures, and great stories to tell. Taroko National Park is easily accessed from  Hualien City , on Taiwan’s wild East Coast.

3. Explore the East Coast

Taiwan’s East Coast is my favorite part of Taiwan. The cities are smaller, the sea is cleaner, the pollution is almost non-existent, and the mountains are always nearby. The East Coast is a top destination in Asia for cyclists, nature enthusiasts, vagabonds, surfers, and people who have an interest in ancient aboriginal cultures.  Dulan ,  Fulong , and  Jiufen  are three places you should put on your list.

4. Hike in the Central Mountain Range

Whether you want to scale Taiwan’s highest peak Jade Mountain (Yushan), or simply take a short day-hike along easy trails at lower altitude in jungles or bamboo forests, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the Central Mountain Range. My personal favorite alpine station on the island is  Hehuanshan , where lots of day-hikes and longer treks can be started. Check Cilai Mountain  if you want to test your endurance and alpine skills.

5. Beach-hop in Kenting

Kenting  is Taiwan’s top destination for beach lovers, surfers, snorkelers, and people who are into eating fresh seafood! Located at the southern tip of the island, the area is also home to a national park, a beautiful lighthouse, quiet fishing harbors, and one of Taiwan’s busiest night markets. No vacation to Taiwan is complete without a visit to Kenting!

6. Visit the temples of Tainan

There are temples everywhere around the island, but no other place has such diversity of religious sites like  Tainan . If you’re interested in knowing more about Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taiwan’s own brand of “folk religious practices”, you should spend at least 2 days in the old capital, which is located in the south. Tainan remains a stronghold of ancient Taiwanese culture.

7. Cycle around Sun Moon Lake

8. Dive on Green Island

This small volcanic island situated in the Pacific Ocean is home to the best diving and snorkelling in Taiwan. The reef here is home to more than 210 kinds of coral and 600 kinds of fish.  Green Island also offers the only seawater hot spring in the country, a lighthouse, hiking trails, and small beaches with fine white sand.

9. Eat stinky tofu at a night market

Stinky tofu  is the ultimate national night snack and it’s a top thing to do in Taiwan for most visitors. Don’t be fooled by the strong, pungent odor – it doesn’t taste as bad as it smells. Night markets across the island sell this famous street food for as little as 30NT$ a plate.

10. Enjoy a hot spring

Few places in the world enjoy such a high concentration of  hot springs  across the land as Taiwan – more than 150 sites! Only Japan ranks higher. There are three ways you can enjoy hot springs on the island: at public baths, in your own private room, or in nature, where springs still gush naturally in streams and rivers.

11. Learn about Taiwan’s indigenous cultural heritage on Orchid Island

The Tao aboriginal tribe on Orchid Island (Lanyu) is one of the most fascinating, maybe because it’s able to retain its original character and its ancient ways due to its remoteness. Orchid Island is actually closer to the Philippines than the main island of Taiwan.

12. Walk around Jiufen

Few tourist destinations offer such spectacular views over the Pacific Ocean as  Jiufen . On a clear day, strap on your hiking shoes, and walk along easy paths in the hills to get stunning views of the northeast coast. The town is also popular for its old street, little snacks, and teahouses.

13. Matsu Island – Off the beaten path

Visiting  Matsu  is not on many people’s list of things to do in Taiwan, mostly because you have to take a flight, or a very long boat ride to get there. Another reason why people dismiss it is because most of the focus in travel guidebooks is on the military sights that are found here. Matsu is not just about soldiers, tanks, and army bases. The archipelago is also home to beautiful wild forests, temples, and interesting villages with ancient Chinese architecture.

14. Rock climbing, snorkeling, diving at Long Dong

I first came to Taiwan in 2000 to rock climb at the  Long Dong cliffs . Located just an hour southeast from Taipei, Long Dong offers world-class rock climbing on high-quality sandstone, right by the ocean. Both sport and trad routes can be found here, and there’s even a couple of multi-pitch climbs. One of the great things about Long Dong is that it’s possible to climb here year-round.

Water activities are also very popular here. Cliff-jumping, deep-water solo, snorkeling, scuba diving, or just swimming are all things you can do here.

15. Witness a Chinese Parade

This kind of stuff doesn’t compare with anything you’ve ever seen. Taiwanese religious parades are chaotic shows of colorful symbolic nonsense filled with dragons, loud music, half-naked pole-dancers, blood, fire-crackers, statues of gods being carried by drunk people, beetle nut chewing drivers, and clueless observers of all ages. Less and less of these traditional parades can be witnessed these days, but they still occur, mostly in the countryside. One of the craziest events you can ever see in Taiwan is  Dangki – an ancient Chinese Ritual  which involves blood and crazy people.

16. Eat at Keelung’s Miaokou Night Market and visit a cool temple

If you’re only gonna visit one night market in Taiwan, make sure it’s Miaokou. The food here is of much higher quality than at most night markets around the country. If you’re into seafood, you’ll  love this place and you’ll want to make sure you arrive on an empty stomach.  Dianji Temple  is right among the food stalls, and it’s a super nice spot to take pictures or see people make offerings to the gods.  Keelung  is only 40 minutes away from Taipei by train, and trains leave every 20 minutes. Definitely one of the coolest things to do in Taiwan!

17. Go on a scooter road trip!

Many people will agree with me: the best way to discover Taiwan is on two wheels! The ubiquitous scooter is symbolic to Taiwan and it’s also the ultimate freedom tool for the traveler who’s in search of adventure. On a scooter, you can access remote parts of the island, such as deep valleys in the central mountain range, and you can travel at your own pace without having to rely on bus or train schedules.  More about scooter travel here .

More things to do in Taiwan?

These were just of few ideas of things you can experience on Formosa. The possibilities are infinite! I’ve spent more than 18 years traveling around the island, and I still have a list of more than a hundred things to do in Taiwan! Grab your bag, strap on those boots, and go explore!

Return from Things to do in Taiwan to Taiwanese Secrets  Homepage

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:-)

Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

A Comprehensive Taiwan Travel Guide and Itinerary for First Timers

Taiwan is a compact but extremely rewarding travel destination. This East Asian island country will tempt you with its welcoming people, track record for safety, convenient transportation, unbeatable street food, stunning natural scenery, and outdoors activities. If you’re in the early stages of planning your Taiwan trip, you’ll uncover a wealth of information in this Taiwan Travel Guide, including when to go and for how long, how to plan your trip, the top attractions, the ideal itinerary, plus more tips and FAQs.

This article was written by Nick Kembel , who has been living in and traveling around Taiwan for over a decade. He’s written a book about Taiwan, manages two websites about the country, and moderates the Taiwan Travel Planning Group on Facebook.

Taiwan Trip Planner and Guide

When is the best time to visit taiwan, how many days do you need for taiwan, how to plan your trip to taiwan, around taipei, taroko gorge.

Sun Moon Lake

Taiwan Travel Itinerary

Will i need cash in taiwan how much, what’s easycard, which kind of transportation should i take and when should i book it , is taiwan suitable for vegetarians, share this:.

Pin this Taiwan Trip Planner and Travel Guide to plan for your Trip to Taiwan

If you want the perfect combination of good weather and small crowds in Taiwan, choose March, April, October, or November.

May and June are the rainy season in Taiwan. Summer (July to September) is uncomfortably hot and humid, not to mention that your travel plans may be ruined by a typhoon.

December is the most popular month of the year for tourism in Taiwan, mainly because visitors from nearby Asian countries flock there for Christmas events, New Year’s Eve fireworks, and because they want to experience cooler weather for their winter holidays.

Winter (January to March) is a little cold in Taipei and the north, but the south of Taiwan remains tropical year-round. It’s a good time for hot springs and cherry blossom viewing.

However, avoid visiting during Lunar New Year, when everything closes, flight prices skyrocket, and all trains and hotels will be fully booked. But consider visiting for the Lantern Festival (15 th day of the lunar year), one of the most impressive traditional celebrations in the country.

Red Paper Lanterns in Taiwan | Photo by Henry & Co. on Unsplash

Many visitors only book one week or less for Taiwan. This is not nearly enough. With this amount of time, you’ll probably only be able to visit Taipei plus one or two other places. I’s not enough to do a full loop around the country.

In order to travel in a circle around Taiwan and visit all the main attractions along the way, two weeks is the ideal amount of time. If you can extend it to three weeks, that will be even better. Then you’ll be less rushed and you can even include some more off-the-beaten-track stops.

But two weeks is a decent chunk of time to work with, and I’ll introduce the perfect Taiwan two-week itinerary in this Taiwan Travel Guide.

Taiwan is not an ideal country for just showing up and figuring it out as you go. It’s a crowded country with millions of locals who also like to travel around on weekends and holidays, not to mention the 10 million+ tourists who show up every year.

It is common for all the hotels to sell out at destinations in Taiwan. This is especially true for Alishan , the country’s most popular mountain resort, and one of the Best Places to visit in Taiwan . The hotels there are limited and sometimes all the rooms sell out weeks in advance. This is especially true for weekends, holidays, and cherry blossom season (mid-March to early-April in Alishan).

This can also happen at Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge , but only at the busiest times of the year (long weekends and Lunar New Year holiday). And for December, the busiest month for international tourism in Taiwan, I’ve even heard of travellers having difficulty finding rooms in major cities like Taipei.

RaoHe Night Market, Taipei | Photo by Clement Souchet on Unsplash

The main lesson here in this Taiwan Travel Guide and Itinerary is: book your Taiwan hotels in advance! Personally, I usually start making my itinerary and looking at hotels about six months before my trip. However, I sometimes don’t actually book them until about 2-3 months before. Unfortunately, some hotels in Taiwan, especially smaller ones, tend to not release their rooms until 2-3 months in advance. This can be a little pesky when you’re hoping to secure a room at a famous location like Alishan.

As for trains, that is a whole different story. Figuring out which trains to take around the country is going to be one of the more complicated parts of your trip. Because there’s so much to say about that, I’ll cover it in the FAQs section below.

But for now, suffice to say that you can buy regular (TRA) train or High Speed Rail (HSR) tickets 28 days in advance (or 29 days in advance for Saturday trips and 29 days for Sunday trips). The tickets for a new day are released at precisely midnight (Taiwan time – you’ll need to figure out what time that is in your country).

These are important details, because some popular train routes and dates in Taiwan can sell out within minutes of being released. For others, you don’t even need to book them – you can buy tickets or swipe an EasyCard (a reloadable smart card for transportation in Taiwan) just before boarding.

There are a few other things you may want to book before arriving in Taiwan. These include a Taiwan SIM card , entrance to popular attractions in Taiwan , and a Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass . All of these can be booked on Klook . You can also buy them when you get there, but then you’ll need to use more cash.

Last but not least, if you plan to visit any famous upscale restaurants like those with Michelin stars, you may need to reserve them several months in advance.

PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to Taiwan to tick off these Best Things to do in Taiwan as shared in this Taiwan Travel Guide and Itinerary  – 

• Book your Rental Car in Taiwan on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
• Book the best Taiwan Tours at Klook
• Book your Accommodation in Taiwan on Agoda or Booking.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Taiwan, to enjoy premium Airport Lounge Access.
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free road trip vacation in Taiwan.

Top Attractions in Taiwan

Longshan Temple | Taipei

For most visitors, their journey starts and ends in the capital city, Taipei. Some of the top highlights include the Observatory at Taipei 101 (once the tallest building in the world), Maokong Gondola (a glass-bottomed gondola with views of the city and tea farms), Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (one of the city’s most impressive landmarks, dedicated to a former dictator), and Beitou Hot Springs .

Of course you also can’t miss the city’s famous night markets, where hundreds of food stalls dish out mouth-watering delicacies every night of the year. The city’s five biggest ones are Shilin Night Market, Raohe Night Market, Ningxia Night Market , Tonghua Night Market , and Nanjichang Night Market , but there are many small ones, too. The city also has a huge range of hotels, from excellent hostels to some of Taiwan’s top luxury hotels .

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Taipei by getting the Klook Pass Taipei (save upto 41%).

If you are a foodie, you have to try out the different yummy street foods in Taipei, and guess what, with this Klook Pass – Taipei Must Eat Food , you can save upto 49% , while trying out 5-6 different kinds of Taipei Street Food.

Jiufen Old Street | Photo by Danielle Hoang on Unsplash

Some of the country’s most famous attractions are within a few hours of Taipei. The most popular attractions among them are Shifen Old Street (where tourists write wishes on paper lanterns then send them up to the sky), Shifen Waterfall, Jiufen Old Street (an old mining town with traditional teahouses), and Yehliu Geopark (with interesting shaped rock formations on the coast. Another popular day trip is Yangmingshan National Park , an active volcano right next to the city.

Taroko Gorge – The Grand Canyon of Taiwan

The “Grand Canyon of Taiwan” is the most famous natural attraction in Taiwan. This deep, dramatic gorge features stunning hikes, impossibly perched shrines, thrilling suspension bridges, and roaring waterfalls. Taroko Gorge is the top sight in Hualien county on wild east coast of Taiwan.

Cycling in Chishang in Taitung County

Remote Taitung county sits in the quiet, primarily rural southeastern corner of Taiwan. This is the land of epic bicycle paths through rice paddies, taking it easy, and meeting local Taiwanese aboriginal peoples. The county also boasts two incredible islands, Green Island (great for scuba diving and with a unique saltwater hot spring) and Orchid Island (home to the country’s most isolated aboriginal tribe).

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Taitung by getting the Klook Pass Taitung (save upto 45%).

Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

Kaohsiung is the largest city in Southern Taiwan and country’s largest port. It features some of the country’s more grandiose attractions, including Fo Guang Shan (Taiwan’s largest Buddhist monastery and tallest Buddha statue), Lotus Pond (a manmade lake surrounded by temples, including the ever-popular Dragon and Tiger Pagodas), and the best street art in the country – graffiti is legal here! From Kaohsiung, you can also make side trips to Xiaoliuqiu island for snorkelling with giant sea turtles or Kenting National Park for some of the  best beaches in Taiwan.

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Kaohsiung and Xiaoliuqiu Island by getting the Klook Pass Kaohsiung (save upto 30%) and Klook Pass Xiaoliqiu (save upto 28%) respectively.

A traditional temple in Tainan

The ancient capital of Taiwan , Tainan is rich in historical architecture. Come here to see some of the oldest and most important temples, forts, and Japanese-era architecture in the country. Locals consider Tainan the culinary capital of Taiwan , too, so there are plenty of good eats to be had.

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Tainan by getting the Klook Pass Tainan (save upto 50%).

Towering trees in Alishan – Taiwan’s Most Famous Mountain Resort

Alishan is Taiwan’s most famous mountain resort . Sitting at 2200 meters above sea level, the area features towering ancient cypress trees, sunrises over a sea of clouds, and the chance to ride on the cute red train cars of a former logging line, the Alishan Forest Railway . The region is also known for Alishan High Mountain Oolong Tea , Taiwan’s most famous tea.

Here we have the largest and most enticing lake in Taiwan . This tourist hot spot boasts a wealth of activities, from boat rides across the lake and epic views from Sun Moon Lake Ropeway to fantastic cycling and temples overlooking the lake. In February, visitors flock to Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village , an aboriginal theme park, when thousands of cherry blossoms bloom. In September, thousands of locals do a mass swim across the lake, the only time of the year that swimming is allowed.

Lanterns in Taichung

The largest city in Central Taiwan is a haven for foodies with a sweet tooth, with the likes of Miyahara (over-the-top ice creams in a Harry Potter-like setting), Taiwan Sun Cake Museum (honouring a local cake that was invented in the city) and Chun Shui Tang Siwei Original Store (the supposed birthplace of pearl milk tea). Taichung is also a convenient base for venturing to attractions outside of the city like Rainbow Village (a traditional house painted in vibrant colours by a former Chinese soldier), Gaomei Wetlands (for amazing sunsets on the coast), and Zhongshe Flower Market (for seas of various flowers).

Unlock Massive Savings on different attractions and activities in Taichung by getting the Klook Pass Taichung (save upto 60%).

Days 1 and 2: Spend these days overcoming jetlag and exploring the many sights, activities, and night markets in Taipei.

Day 3: Use this day to make a day trip from Taipei . The most popular option is a day trip to the east, including an eclectic mix of stops like Jiufen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall, Houtong Cat Village, Yehliu Geopark, and finishing at Keelung Night Market before returning to the city.

Day 4: Travel to Hualien , check in to a hotel, and explore Dongdamen Night Market .

Day 5: Full day tour of Taroko Gorge , including stops at Qingshui Cliffs (some dramatic coastal bluffs) and Qixingtan Beach (a pretty pebble beach). 

Day 6: Cycling among the rice paddies in Chishang , the most picturesque town in Taitung county.

Days 7-8: Explore the main sights of Kaohsiung on day 7 then do a day trip to snorkel with sea turtles on Xiaoliuqiu island on day 8.

Day 9: Catch the train + bus to Alishan and do some hiking before sunset.

Day 10: Wake up super early for the famous Alishan sunrise, then do a little more hiking before check-out time. Catch the afternoon bus to Sun Moon Lake.

Day 11: Explore Sun Moon lake by bike, gondola, bus, and/or boat.

Days 12 and 13: Tour the main sights in Taichung city on day 12, then make a day trip to Rainbow Village, Zhongshe Flower Market, Gaomei Wetlands, Lihpao Discovery Land, and/or Lukang (a very traditional old town) on Day 13. Make sure not miss Feng Chia Night Market, one of the largest in Taiwan.

Day 14: Return to Taipei or go directly from Taichung to Taoyuan International Airport for flying out.

Some common Taiwan FAQs

Typical travellers will spend TWD 1000 to 2000 per person per day in Taiwan. This is not counting hotels.

Taiwan is still very much a cash-loving society. Although you can use EasyCard and credit cards for some things (international credit cards only sometimes seem to work), you’ll still need cash for most things. Even if you book all your hotels on platforms like Booking, most budget and some mid-range hotels will still expect cash payment on arrival.

Luckily, there are ATMs everywhere in Taiwan, so you can withdraw money as you go. They allow you to take out quite a lot at once, so make sure to check your bank’s upper withdrawal limit before you go. If you’re bringing foreign cash, exchange it at the airport. There’s only a small fee per transaction, and it’s much more convenient than going to banks in the city. Banks don’t carry certain currencies, too.

Most people in Taiwan use a very handy reloadable smart card called EasyCard . You can buy one for TWD 100 at any convenience store or MRT station, including the Airport MRT for getting from Taoyuan International Airport to Taipei ).

EasyCard – Taiwan

On top of the non-refundable 100 deposit, you can load as much money as you want onto the card. You’ll use this a lot in Taipei for riding the MRT to explore the city. You can also use it to pay for local buses, trains (for example on day trips from Taipei), to pay for items at convenience stores, and some taxis take it.

If you follow the above itinerary, here are some tips:

• In Taipei, you’ll mainly ride the MRT. Just load some money onto an EasyCard for swiping into and out from the stations. You can also use EasyCard for the Airport MRT.
• When you do day trips from Taipei, you’ll mostly be riding local trains. Those don’t have seat numbers, can’t be booked, and you can just swipe EasyCard to board them.
• For Taipei to Hualien, the express train (2 hrs) is extremely popular and often sells out. Try to book this on the official TRA site 28-30 days in advance. If the express train sells out, you’ll have to ride a slower one (3 to 4 hours).
• From Hualien to Chishang and Chishang to Kaohsiung, it’s the same as above. Trains on the west coast are more limited, so book early.
• To travel from Kaohsiung to Alishan, ride train (no booking needed if you choose a local one, only 1 hour) from Kaohsiung Station to Chiayi Station. From Chiayi, take the bus (swipe EasyCard ) to Alishan (2 hours).
• There’s only one bus per day from Alishan to Sun Moon Lake, departing 1 PM and arriving 4 PM, swipe EasyCard .
• The bus from Sun Moon Lake to Taichung takes 90 minutes. Again you can swipe EasyCard .
• For Taichung to Taipei (or to Taoyuan for transferring to the Airport MRT), try taking a ride on the super-fast High Speed Rail. These tickets can be booked in advance on the official HSR site for an early bird discount or on the spot (non-reserved ticket) right before boarded. Non-reserved section is cars 10-12, but a seat is not guaranteed.

Yes, Taiwan is a vegetarian-friendly country. There are hundreds of vegetarian restaurants in Taipei and around the country. Most traditional Taiwanese vegetarian food is also vegan. Many vegetarian restaurants have the character for vegetarian (素) prominently displayed. You can easily find them by searching on GoogleMaps or using websites like HappyCow.

Some Final Taiwan Travel Tips

• English is limited in Taiwan, so I recommend preparing a translation app like GoogleTranslate or Papago. These can be used to scan signs/menus or even translate conversations as you try to communicate with locals.
• Taiwanese are very polite and generally love foreigners. Young people tend to be shy, but most people will help if you need it.
• When it comes to local etiquette, don’t make any noise (even talking should be a whisper) on buses & trains, the dark blue MRT seats are for the needy, stand only on the right side of escalators, and wave at buses if you want them to stop to pick you up.
• Pay restaurant bills at the front of the restaurant before leaving, and there’s generally no tipping in Taiwan.
• Taiwan is an extremely tolerant country and the only place in Asia where same-sex marriage is legal.
• Dress as you wish, but don’t go barefoot or wear beach attire unless you’re at the beach.
• Unlike Japan, tattoos are fine for hot springs but you may need to wear a swimming hat.

And if you are wondering, Where to stay in Taiwan? All you have to do is, fill in your dates, the destination and click on the search button in the box below, and save upto 50% on the Best Hotels and Resorts in Taiwan.

Don’t forget to Pin this Taiwan Travel Guide featuring the Best Things to do in Taiwan along with a 14 Day Taiwan Travel Itinerary , which will help you plan for your Trip to Taiwan.

Pin this Taiwan Travel Guide and Itinerary and Save it for planning for your Trip to Taiwan

Also, if you like reading the content I create and curate, I will be really thankful if you could take a moment to

LIKE | COMMENT | SHARE and SUBSCRIBE 

Also, if you’re on Facebook, I would love to have you as a part of 

the Eat Travel Live Repeat Travel Community

Type your email…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

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

• Kale by LyraThemes.com.

Privacy Overview

Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 🇹🇼 Planning a Trip to Taiwan: 11 Practical Things To Know

Receiving over 20 million tourists last year in 2023, Taiwan is a popular destination in East Asia that is known for its vibrant night markets, centuries-old temples, and lush mountains.

Having spent an incredible week in Taiwan, I share must-know travel tips that are especially useful for first-time visitors.

This Taiwan guide is also informed by my local friend, Ella Park-Chan, who lived in Taipei for three years.

• 1. Best Places To Visit
• 2. When To Visit
• 3. How Long To Visit
• 4. Entry Requirements
• 5. Budgeting & Cash
• 6. How To Get Around
• 7. How To Stay Safe
• 8. Language Barrier
• 9. Cultural Differences
• 10. Food To Try
• 11. DIY vs. Guided Trip

Taiwan Trip Planner

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

1. Best Places To Visit in Taiwan

Taiwan has incredible places to visit ranging from modern cities to stunning mountains made out of marble.

Below are Taiwan’s most popular destinations and the top things to see and do in each location.

Taipei , the capital city of Taiwan, is a modern, progressive city integrated with culture and tradition . It’s often visitors’ first stop and sometimes the only stop if they’re traveling to Taiwan for the first time.

There are many things to do in Taipei, ranging from hikes and temples to night markets and museums. Top attractions in Taipei include:

• Taipei 101 , the former tallest building in the world and an architectural icon
• Night markets that sell delicious street food for cheap. Taipei’s best night markets are Raohe and Shilin Night Market.
• Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, a stunning significant historical landmark. The memorial hall is also near the National Theater and Concert Hall.
• Elephant Mountain , a metro-accessible hike with amazing views of Taipei city

• Beitou Hot Springs , a metro-accessible hot spring
• Maokong Gondola , a scenic cable-car ride
• National Palace Museum , a world-renowned museum
• Longshan Temple , an intricate 300-year-old temple

Taipei is also cyclist-friendly and one of the best ways to explore it is by biking through it. Taking a Taipei cycling tour is one of the most efficient ways to see both popular and less well-known attractions.

📍 Taroko National Park in Hualien

Taroko National Park , also called Taroko Gorge, is a beautiful park known for its marble canyons, towering cliffs, and lush forests. It’s a popular destination with many visitors taking a day trip from Taipei or spending a night in Hualien City just to visit Taroko Gorge.

Top attractions in Taroko Gorge include:

• Shakadang Trail , a popular hiking trail well-known for its scenic beauty

• Eternal Spring Shrine , a landmark shrine commemorating the workers who lost their lives while carving tunnels in the marble mountain

• Swallow Grotto , a unique part of the marble canyon where swallows nest

See how to plan a trip to Taroko National Park .

📍 Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake , located in the center of Taiwan, is the country’s largest lake and another popular tourist destination. It’s known for its scenic backdrop and various activities.

Top attractions in Sun Moon Lake include:

• Cycling around the lake , a common way to sightsee and explore the area
• Wenwu Temple , a palace-styled temple offering breathtaking views of the lake
• Xuanzang Temple , a Buddhist temple featuring panoramic views
• Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village , an amusement park that introduces the diverse culture of Taiwan

Although a bit far, Sun Moon Lake can be visited as a day trip from Taipei .

📍 Other Amazing Places in Taiwan

Taiwan has another endless number of places to visit.

• Kenting National Park , located in the south, is popular for its beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters.
• Jiufen , a small picturesque village perched on the side of a mountain, is famous for Jiufen Old Street and traditional teahouses. It’s the village that people claim inspired the movie, Spirited Away, although the director has denied this.

Here’s how to spend a day trip in Jiufen from Taipei .

• Tainan , called the “City of Temples”, is one of Taiwan’s oldest cities and is celebrated for its culinary scene and ancient temples.
• Alishan , located in central Taiwan, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, breathtaking sunrise views, and hiking trails.
• Yehliu Geopark is popular for its unique rock formations.

You can visit Yehliu Geopark on a day trip from Taipei .

• Lukang , located on Taiwan’s west coast, is known for its traditional architecture dating back to the Qing Dynasty.

🍀 My Experience in Taipei, Jiufen, and Taroko Gorge

I generally find Taiwan amazing. I find it incredible that it’s not a more popular, south-after destination. During my Taiwan trip, I visited Taipei, Jiufen, Taroko Gorge, and Hualien City.

• Taipei as a city has everything I like: hiking trails, nature getaways, hot springs, ancient temples, a modern city center, and amazing food.
• Jiufen , which is about a 40-minute drive east of Taipei, is worth a day trip. It’s a bit touristy, but I love the charming atmosphere.
• Taroko Gorge is a beautiful part of Taiwan and I highly recommend it as a two-day trip. The nearby Hualien City is more residential than Taipei, but still has great things to see and do.

This 7-day Taiwan itinerary features my trip’s highlights.

2. When To Visit Taiwan

Taiwan has a subtropical climate and is a great place to visit year-round , as it has mild temperatures almost all time of the year.

☀️ Best Time to Visit Taiwan

The best and most popular time to visit Taiwan is during its spring and fall seasons .

• The spring season , which runs from March to May, has mild weather, averaging 60 to 75 °F, which makes it ideal for being outdoors. Like Japan (although less famous for them), the cherry blossoms in Taiwan bloom in late March and April.
• The autumn season , which runs from September to November, is another popular time to visit. During this time, the weather is warmer, averaging 68 to 85 °F, making it a great time to swim, hike, and admire the lush landscape.

🍃 Taiwan’s Seasons

Taiwan has four seasons. Here’s a quick overview of its seasons:

Here are some things to keep in mind about the seasons and climate in Taiwan:

• Taiwan has a rainy season from June to September, but compared to other Asian countries, the rainfall is not heavy.
• Typhoon season is from May to November. About a dozen typhoons hit Taiwan per year, but rarely do they make landfall and cause widespread damage. Most typhoons only lead to road blockages and landslides.
• As is true with many island destinations, the temperature and weather in coastal vs. inland regions of Taiwan can be different. Inland areas are always warmer.

The Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year, is on February 10th, 2024, and it’s not a popular time for tourists to visit. Many students and employees take days to weeks off around this time, so attractions, shops, and even transportation are limited or closed.

🍀 My Experience With Taiwan’s Weather

I traveled to Taiwan in  mid-October and early November  and found the weather mild.  

I primarily wore summer clothes and threw on a hoodie or light jacket around nighttime. I experienced two days of brief rain and had a few cloudy days, but it was overall pleasant.

3. How Long To Spend in Taiwan

Taiwan is a medium-sized island nation where visitors typically spend seven to ten days traveling.

🗓️ How Many Days Do You Need in Taiwan?

First-time visitors should spend at least five days in Taiwan to explore Taipei and have enough time to see one other destination for a more complete trip.

• With three to five days in Taiwan, you’ll have enough time to visit the capital city of Taipei and do a day trip outside of it. This would be considered a short visit and you won’t have much time for anything else.
• With one to two weeks in Taiwan, you can visit several of the top places in Taiwan, including Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, and Taroko National Park. You may also get to drive along the eastern side and see Tainan.

See how to spend a week in Taiwan .

• With more than two weeks in Taiwan , you can head all the way south to Kaohsiung City and spend more time seeing parts of the country that are off-the-beaten-path.

🍀 How Long I Stayed in Taiwan

I visited Taiwan for one week . I spent three to four days in Taipei, one day in Jiufen , and two days in Hualien City with a day trip to Taroko Gorge .

Having been to a dozen destinations in the past year, Taiwan is at the top of my list of destinations I plan to return to , as I felt like I hardly got to see a lot of the island and there are so many beautiful places to visit.

4. Entry Requirements for Taiwan

The entry requirement for Taiwan is straightforward for US citizens.

🛃 Taiwan’s Visa and Passport Requirements

A tourist visa is not required for United States citizens visiting Taiwan for up to 90 days .

Also, your US passport must be valid during your Taiwan trip , but there’s no requirement for it to be valid before or after.

🍀 My Experience Entering Taiwan

Being an American citizen comes with the privilege of holding one of the world’s most powerful passports, so I had no issues flying into Taipei, Taiwan.

5. Budgeting and Cash in Taiwan

Taiwan is a semi-affordable tourist destination for Asia.

💰 Expected Budget in Taiwan

Here’s approximately how much you can expect to spend when visiting Taiwan:

While a round-trip ticket to Taiwan from the United States will be expensive at around $1,000, Taiwan has many free attractions and places where you can eat a meal for less than $10 .

🏧 Do You Need Cash In Taiwan?

Credit cards are sometimes accepted in Taiwan, but the economy is still largely based on cash transactions , so make sure to bring cash .

You’ll find ATMs widely available at convenience stores , like Family Marts and 7-Elevens.

💵 Are US Dollars Accepted in Taiwan?

Taiwan’s local currency is the New Taiwan dollar (NT). The US dollar is not widely accepted , so make sure to exchange currencies.

The exchange rate was $1 USD = 32 NT at the time of writing.

🍀 My Taiwan Trip’s Budget

Taiwan remains one of my most affordable vacation trips to date. I share all my travel expenses and credit card usage in this Taiwan budget breakdown .

6. How To Get Around in Taiwan

There are several ways to get around Taiwan. While many areas have reliable public transportation , a rental car would make some places easier to get to .

✈️ Flying Into Taiwan

Taiwan has four international airports to fly into:

Most first-time visitors land at the Taoyuan Airport in Taipei. You can get to Taipei’s city center by bus, taxi, or train. The taxi and bus ride will take about 35 minutes while the train ride takes over an hour.

Once you land in Taiwan, there are several common ways to get around the country.

🚇 Best Way To Get Around Taipei: The MRT

If you’re staying in Taipei, the best way to get around is by public transportation. Taiwan’s metro, known as the MRT, is clean, well-maintained, and punctual. See the MRT map in English .

Here are some tips when riding the Taipei MRT:

• Buy a one-time token or a rechargeable card . At the metro station kiosks, you can either buy a one-time blue token or an EasyCard (aka IC Card) to ride the MRT.

The station kiosks only accept cash . I found that the station attendants are willing to break larger bills.

• Get an EasyCard. If you are going to be frequently riding the MRT like I did, I recommend getting an EasyCard for convenience, despite the 100 NT (about $3 USD) non-refundable fee. Any remaining balance on your EasyCard can be refunded at the end of your trip.

• Check Google Maps. The listed train times are accurate, so you can trust the listed times to plan your trip. However, I found the listed times for buses are not accurate.
• Follow the rules. Taiwan has a polite culture that tends to follow the rules. For example, the MRT tends to be very quiet as talking loudly is considered a nuisance to others.

MRT train stations are clean and have trash cans (public ones are not common in Taiwan) and bathrooms . It’s a good idea to bring toilet paper just in case.

🚆 Option 1: Train

Outside of Taipei, Taiwan also has an efficient train system run by TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) that will take you to all parts of the country, including Sun Moon Lake and Hualien City.

There’s a high-speed rail that takes you from Taipei in northern Taiwan to Kaohsiung City in southern Taiwan in less than three hours.

You can buy TRA train tickets in two ways:

• Through a Taiwanese mobile app ( iOS ,  Android ). Booking a train ticket only reserves it, so you need to claim it as well. If you don’t claim your ticket (whether in person or digitally) within 20 minutes of departure time, they can give it to someone else.
• In person at the train station . Some train times are very popular (e.g., going from Taipei to Hualien City) and need to be booked in advance. When I booked a train to Hualien a week in advance, a few of the afternoon departures were sold out.

Most trains will depart from the Taipei Main Station. Google Maps has several “Taipei Main Stations”  depending on whether you’re catching a train, bus, or the MRT. Double-check the “Subway services” section of the app to make sure it is the right place for your transportation needs.

🚌 Option 2: Public Bus

Another common way to get around Taiwan is by bus or shuttle bus. These are great options for shorter distances (e.g., anything that takes less than two hours to drive) or to reach places where the train won’t take you.

You can also take a shuttle bus from Taipei to popular destinations like  Jiufen  and Sun Moon Lake.

🚗 Option 3: Rental Car or Scooter

One common way for locals to get around Taiwan is by car and scooter.

Most foreign visitors do not rent a car or scooter in Taiwan, except to do a road trip on the east coast where the train infrastructure is lacking. Renting a car is not as straightforward in Taiwan as it is in other destinations.

To rent a car or scooter in Taiwan, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP ) and familiarize yourself with the country’s confusing rental laws.

🚙 Option 4: Taxi and Uber

Yellow taxis are readily available in Taiwan, especially in concentrated city areas, and it’s a common way to get around.

You’ll find Uber only in bigger cities like Taipei. Compared to taxis, they’re more convenient to use for tourists.

✈️ Option 5: Domestic Flight

Taiwan has several airports around the country. While you can get around by taking domestic flights, they’re typically not the most budget-friendly way to travel domestically.

For example, taking a domestic flight from the northern to the southern part of Taiwan will cost at least $160 one-way , whereas the high-speed rail would be closer to $40 USD.

🚲 Option 6: Cycling

Taiwan’s infrastructure is cyclist-friendly . You’ll find many bike-sharing services in major cities and tourist destinations, including Sun Moon Lake, Taroko Gorge, and Kaohsiung City.

🍀 How I Got Around Taiwan

Like many visitors, I primarily relied on Taiwan’s trains, metro, and bus to get around. I called an Uber twice in Taipei when it significantly saved more time than taking the train. I also had a local friend drive me to Jiufen , which made me realize how driving in Taiwan can be confusing.

Overall, I found Taiwan’s public transportation reliable, clean, and pleasant although it can be occasionally confusing to navigate with just knowing English .

7. How To Stay Safe in Taiwan

Here are safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to Taiwan.

⚠️ Is Taiwan Safe to Visit?

Taiwan is considered a safe country to visit. Violence and even petty theft against tourists are very rare. Taiwan has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the world .

Taiwan not only has a travel advisory level of 1 per the US Department of State, but it is also ranked #33 out of 163 safest countries by the Global Peace Index (for reference, the United States is ranked #131).

🚖 Common Scams in Taiwan

Tourist scams are not common in Taiwan, but here are scams to watch out for:

• Some restaurants will overcharge tourists by hiding additional service fees or inflating the menu prices, so make sure to always check your receipt.
• Taxi drivers will also try to overcharge tourists , which you can avoid by using Uber. However, this is a rare occurrence.
• Once in a while, you might find that tour vendors are not legitimate . They may try to sell you a tour or a ticket to Taipei 101, but they’re not authorized to do so. Make sure to book tours with legitimate platforms like Viator .

💧 Is Tap Water Safe To Drink in Taiwan?

Tap water in big cities like Taipei and Hualien City is safe to drink , but many locals are still dubious of tap water safety. It’s a little less clear if tap water is safe in other places in Taiwan, especially in smaller towns.

I brought my reusable water bottle , which I refilled at restaurants, hotels, and vending machines with no issues.

🦟 Does Taiwan Have Mosquitoes?

Taiwan has  disease-carrying mosquitoes  ( dengue virus is common ), especially during the summer and rainy season, so protect yourself as best as you can.

While walking around in Taiwan, you’ll see several posters warning people of getting dengue .

🍀 My Safety Tips for Taiwan

I didn’t have any issues with theft, scams, or violence in Taiwan. Based on my experience, I recommend these safety tips:

• Be vigilant of your surroundings. While Taiwan is very safe, it’s a foreign country with a somewhat high language barrier, so asking for help can be difficult in certain scenarios.
• It’s a good idea to pack   insect repellent . I didn’t have issues with mosquitoes in places like Taipei, but I wore repellent in places like Taroko National Park.

8. Language Barrier in Taiwan

Taiwan’s official language is Mandarin Chinese.

🗣️ Is English Common in Taiwan?

Roughly 30% of Taiwan’s population speaks some English , but you’ll find that the rest of the population speaks only Mandarin.

Major cities and tourist-friendly places will have some signs and menus in English, but Taiwan is largely not as English-friendly as some would expect.

Taiwan currently has a goal of becoming a bilingual nation by 2030 .

Here are some common Mandarin words and phrases to know while visiting Taiwan:

🍀 Traveling Taiwan With Just English

Although navigating Taiwan’s public transportation was relatively easy, I found getting around with just English a bit more challenging than I expected , especially in non-tourist areas.

Unlike Japan, Taiwan doesn’t have a lot of signs in English, locals who don’t work in tourism will not understand any English, and hand gestures are not as common. That said, if you mostly travel in touristy areas, you’ll have no issues getting around .

9. Cultural Differences in Taiwan

The Taiwanese culture has been heavily influenced by Chinese traditions, Japanese colonial rule, and indigenous culture.

Taiwanese people place special emphasis on politeness , social harmony, and respect, which is not very unlike Japanese people .

Due to the relatively recent 50-year Japanese occupation of Taiwan, you’ll find many Japanese influences on the small country . This extends to architectural style, education, railway infrastructure, and cultural practices.

👟 Proper Etiquette in Taiwan

Here are a few cultural norms and Taiwanese etiquette to keep in mind when visiting:

• It’s impolite to speak loudly in public spaces as it can be a nuisance to others, so make sure to keep your voice at a low to medium volume.
• Waiting in line in an orderly manne r is a social norm as it creates social harmony. Line cutting and disorderly lines are not common.
• Family-style dining is typical in Taiwan. When eating in these situations, it’s polite to sample and taste all dishes , even if you don’t end up eating a lot of everything.
• Taiwanese people respect their elders , so it’s important to show respect towards them and to address them with the proper titles.

Taiwan is an open-minded and progressive nation and you’ll find this reflected in its culture. For example, it’s the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage .

🍀 My Experience With Taiwan’s Culture

I love many aspects of Taiwan’s culture, particularly the ones around orderliness, politeness, and cleanliness . Taipei is incredibly clean and peaceful, which deeply contrasts against the many large cities I’ve lived in the United States.

Note that like in Japan, street trash cans are uncommon in Taiwan, so be prepared to hold onto your trash. You can find trash cans at the metro stations.

10. Taiwanese Food To Try

Taiwan is internationally known for its street food culture and unique dishes . When visiting Taiwan, try some classic Taiwanese food:

• Beef noodle soup (niú ròu miàn) is one of the most iconic meals in Taiwan. The dish features chewy noodles with slow-cooked, tender beef.

• Boba or bubble tea ( zhēn zhū nǎichá ) is a flavored tea base with chewy tapioca ball. They’re now globally available and popular, but boba tea originated in Taiwan.

There are many great boba tea shops , but some of the best ones in Taipei are CoCo, DaYung’s Tea, Ten Ren’s Tea, and Chun Shui Tang.

• Stink tofu ( chòu dòufu ), which is fermented tofu, is a beloved dish in Taiwan. I like natto and durian, but I can’t get behind stinky tofu. It’s part of the experience to try one!
• Pork rice bowl (lǔ ròu fàn) is a comforting dish with minced pork belly served with five-spice seasoning and often topped with a boiled egg.
• Pineapple cake (fènglí sū) is a Taiwanese pastry that has a buttery crust surrounding a pineapple jam. This is a very popular souvenir gift to bring back from Taiwan.

SunnyHills is a popular pineapple cake cafe in Taipei, but I personally love the ones at Chia Te Bakery .

• Oyster omelet (òa-á jiān) . There are many Taiwanese street foods worth trying, but one of the most famous ones is the oyster omelet served with eggs and potato starch.

Din Tai Fung is one of Taiwan’s most globally recognized restaurants and one of my favorite places to eat. If you haven’t been to one yet, you can visit the original restaurant in Taipei and try their world-famous soup dumplings .

If you’re unfamiliar with Taiwanese street food or want to learn more about the cuisine’s history, you can also go on a five-star backstreet food tour .

11. DIY vs. Guided Trip in Taiwan

Given the island’s relatively small size and high language barrier, Taiwan is a popular place to travel with an organized tour. Here’s my take on guided vs. DIY trips for Taiwan:

🚐 Guided Taiwan Trip

If you have less than a week in Taiwan and want your trip to be super efficient, you can book all-inclusive guided tours that take you to the best places to visit.

The organized tour will take care of everything (i.e., transportation, accommodations, attractions, food) for you, but they’re not as flexible and will not be as budget-friendly.

🗺️ DIY Taiwan Trip

If you’re planning a Taiwan trip on your own, you can focus your planning efforts on Taipei and then take guided day tours to the top places .

Here’s how to plan a week in Taiwan while taking day trips to top places like Taroko Gorge and Jiufen .

🍀 My DIY Taiwan Trip

I spent a week in Taiwan on a DIY trip, but I had a local friend help me and provide a lot of helpful Taiwan travel tips.

I plan to keep traveling to Taiwan on my own, but I will occasionally book a guided tour for specific attractions, national parks, and food tours.

To make your travel planning easier , download the trip planner below and use it as a starting point. The planner has country-specific travel information, an itinerary, a packing list, and a map with key places pinned.

The trip planner is built on Notion, which I use for all my travel planning (I genuinely love this tool). If you don’t have Notion, creating an account is free .

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Taiwan Travel Guides

• 🧋 Taiwan Guide: 5-7 Day Itinerary + 20 Great Things To Do
• 💰 My 2024 Taiwan Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown
• 🏮 Jiufen Day Trip From Taipei: 9 Great Things To Do + Itinerary
• 🍃 How to Plan a Taroko Gorge Day Trip from Taipei

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

If you find my travel tips helpful, say thanks with a bubble tea 🧋!

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.

The 26 Best Things to See and Do in Taiwan

Taiwan is a beautiful country filled with beautiful national parks, white-sand beaches, and lots of history. But surprisingly, you’ll find very few foreign tourists here. It can also be really difficult to find information about things to see and do in Taiwan as it tends to be off the typical tourist track.

So we’ve made a list of all the top things to do in the country, organized by region, to help you plan your trip to the spectacularly beautiful island of Taiwan!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Tawan Travel Basics

How long to spend in taiwan.

Taiwan is fairly small, and it is easy to travel the length of the country quickly thanks to the high-speed rail system. That being said, there is a lot to see and do in Taiwan, especially in Taipei.

For a one-week Taiwan itinerary , we recommend sticking to Taipei with maybe a couple of day trips to nearby highlights, such as Jiufen or Pingxi . If you’re able to visit Taiwan for two weeks or more, then you can add some of the highlights in the south, such as Kaohsiung, Sun Moon Lake, or Kenting National Park.

Getting Around Taiwan

Taiwan has an incredibly efficient public transportation system that allows you to easily get pretty much anywhere you need to go. The Taiwan High-Speed Rail runs along the west coast from Taipei to Kaohsiung and turns a 5-hour trip into just 1.5 hours. Be sure to book your ticket in advance for any long-distance trips to ensure that you get a reserved seat.

Taiwan also has Uber and surprisingly honest taxi drivers. And since the taxi drivers almost always put you on the meter, you can expect to pay approximately the same whether you take a taxi or an Uber. But most taxi drivers don’t speak English so we found it easier to use Uber to bypass any communication issues.

Currency in Taiwan

The currency of Taiwan is known as the “New Taiwan Dollar“ and is shortened to NTD or NT$. At the time of writing the exchange rate was about NT$31.35 to $1 USD. So if something costs NT$100, that’s just over $3 USD.

Languages Used in Taiwan

The primary languages spoken in Taiwan are Taiwanese Mandarin, Mandarin Chinese, and Standard Mandarin. And most of the signs around the country use Chinese characters. And we found that very few people actually spoke English. You may have some trouble ordering at restaurants or getting around without Google Translate.

The Top 26 Sights in Taiwan

Highlights of northern taiwan, 1. visit the buddhist temples of taipei.

In Western Taipei, near the Tamsui River, are several beautiful Buddhist Temples that you won’t want to miss during your trip to Taiwan! Lungshan Temple (also spelled Longshan) is the most popular and crowded of the three temples that are within walking distance.

The nearby Qingshui Temple is a small but beautiful temple where you’ll find far fewer visitors. And if you want a peaceful experience and beautiful views, then head to Bangka Qingshan Temple. Here you can climb up several flights of stairs to a small balcony at the top which overlooks the neighborhood.

2. Check out the View from the Taipei 101

Taipei 101 is the most iconic building in Taipei and a must-visit during your trip to Taiwan! Built to resemble a bamboo stalk, it was officially the tallest building in the world from its opening in 2004 until 2010 when Dubai surpassed it. And the elevator, which takes only 37 seconds to get from the 5th to the 89th floor, was the world’s fastest from 2004 until 2015. It’s quite exhilarating, but expect your ears to pop!

There is an indoor observation deck on the 89th floor where you can get spectacular views of the city from the floor-to-ceiling windows. You can also climb to the outdoor observation deck on the 91st floor that is occasionally open, weather permitting.

One of the sights that you shouldn’t miss during a trip to Taipei 101 is the large steel pendulum at the center of the building, suspended between the 87th and 92nd floors. The pendulum serves as a damper against strong wind gusts or earthquakes. The largest sway ever recorded by the damper was 39 inches and occurred in 2015, during Typhoon Soudelor.

You’ll want to book your online ticket to Taipei 101 in advance and select a specific time that you plan on visiting. Once you arrive, you’ll pick up your physical ticket on the 5th floor and then wait in the long queue for a green screen photo and the elevator. If you get hungry, there are several small carts around the observation deck as well as overpriced restaurants on the lower floors.

Book a Taipei 101 Ticket in Advance

3. Eat at the Taipei’s Night Markets

Taiwan is famous for its bustling night markets where you can score a great deal on clothes, shoes, and other odds and ends. But the best thing to do in Taiwan’s night markets is to sample the delectable cuisine! You’ll find much of Taiwan’s best food come from its night markets – stinky tofu, steam buns, seafood and vegetable skewers, bubble tea, mango snow ice, and everything in-between. Bring cash and a hearty appetite!

We thought the best night market in Taipei was the Raohe Street Night Market as the food scene there was pretty incredible (check out these 5 Michelin-recommended eats in Raohe Night Market ). And although it seemed a bit more touristy, we found prices to be totally reasonable. If you’re looking for clothing or souvenirs, this is a great place to get them as well.

Tonghua Night Market is also an interesting night market to visit in the Da’an District (one of the best Taipei neighborhoods to stay in ). Tonghua is very local so don’t expect to see many foreigners here. It can also be rather difficult to figure out what food to order as the food options are confusing and not very appealing.

4. Explore the Ximending District

This up-and-coming neighborhood is particularly popular with the young and hip Taiwanese locals. The walking street is full of trendy boutiques, bubble tea shops, and claw machines packed with stuffed toys. You’ll love wandering around Ximending, checking out the shops, and people-watching all afternoon. There are a few specific spots that you must check out while exploring Ximending:

• Snow King Ice Cream – where you can order strange and enticing ice cream flavors like “basil”, “Taiwanese beer”, and “pork floss”. But choose carefully because they don’t allow you to sample before you buy.
• Modern Toilet Restaurant – the menu at this quirky restaurant is poo-themed so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a hilarious dining experience. The food isn’t outstanding but the portions are big and prices are moderate.
• American Street – check out the unique Taiwanese street art both on American Street and in the small park just off the street. It’s a popular spot for photoshoots so you may have to wait your turn.

Where to Stay in Ximending

Tango Inn Taipei Ximen

If you want to stay in the heart of the hippest area of Taipei, then Tango Inn Taipei Ximen is the place to stay! Most of the hotels in the Ximen area are busy hostels but the Tango Inn is peaceful, cozy, and modern. You’ll love heading back to your room after exploring Ximen to relax in your ultra lush bed with loads of amenities right at your fingertips.

Check Prices on Booking.com

5. Win a Claw Machine Prize

You’ll see toy claw machines all over the streets of Taiwan and in the night markets. The cost is generally 10 TWD (~$.30 USD) to try to win one of the various prizes. But keep in mind that they are quite tricky so your chances of actually winning are slim. But it’s fun to give it a try regardless!

6. Drink Bubble Tea

Bubble tea (also known as bubble milk tea and boba tea) is a drink that is popular all over the world but actually originated in Taiwan in the 1980s. So you absolutely must drink it here! Plus, there are bubble tea shops on pretty much every corner of Taipei so you’ll have countless options to choose from.

The drink is made up of a tea of your choosing, milk, and sugar (some shops allow you to customize the amount of sugar added). Flavored tapioca balls and ice are added to complete this tasty treat.

Xing Fu Tang in the Ximen District is arguably the most popular place to get brown sugar milk tea as there is always a long line. But our personal favorite bubble milk tea spot was Chachago as the bubbles were better and the tea was a bit sweeter. Plus, we didn’t have to wait in line!

7. Try Stinky Tofu

Stinky Tofu is a must-try food in Taiwan and is exactly as it sounds. Very very stinky fermented tofu. You’ll mainly find this in the night markets or at roadside food stalls, but not in restaurants as it is generally eaten as a snack. It is usually served deep-fried, grilled, or in a soup. It’s easy to spot the stinky tofu stands when browsing the night markets, just follow the smell of dirty feet and garbage!

Legend has it that stinky tofu was created by accident during the Qing Dynasty when Wang Zhihe had an abundance of unsold tofu. He put it into a jar. When he opened it several days later, he found that the color was greenish and it had a horrible odor but was surprisingly delicious!

We tried deep-fried stinky tofu fries drizzled with chili sauce at the Raohe Street Night Market. We found that it tastes pretty much exactly as it smells. It’s pretty unlikely that you’ll fall in love with stinky tofu but you can’t visit Taiwan without trying it at least once!

8. Climb to the top of Elephant Mountain

Elephant Mountain (aka Xiangshan Hiking Trail) is arguably the best place in Taipei to watch the sunset. It’s a relatively short hike and should only take about 20 minutes to reach the top. Although, it is quite steep. You’ll be ascending stairs all the way up so be sure to bring a bottle of water. Take plenty of breaks too along the way.

But once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of the city of Taipei. Sunset is the best time to visit not only because of the views but also because you can escape the intense afternoon heat.

Elephant Mountain is also relatively easy to access from anywhere in the city. Take the red-line train to Xiangshan Station and then follow Google Maps the .8 miles to the start of the trail. The hike is quite popular with tourists so expect to share your epic views with a few others.

9. Visit the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

The National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (or CKS Memorial Hall) is set at the center of a beautiful, peaceful park with ponds filled with coy fish, walking paths, and trees to provide shade in the heat of the day. A grand gate sits at the entrance to the park with the National Theater and National Concert Hall to the left and right of the CKS Memorial Hall straight ahead.

The memorial hall was built in honor of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, the former President of the Republic of China who died in 1975. He is a controversial figure. His popularity in Taiwan is divided along political lines due to his involvement in thousands of innocent deaths as well as his dictator-style of ruling.

The CKS Memorial Hall is a large, white building that is shaped like an octagon as the number 8 is generally associated with fortune and wealth. There are two sets of 89 steps that lead to the entrance of the hall, representing his age at his death. And a large bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek is the central focal point of the hall. There are also exhibitions on each side containing historical information.

10. Lounge in Beitou Hot Springs

Beitou Hot Spring (also known as Xinbeitou) is located just a 30-minute drive north of Taipei. It is a popular place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Many people just visit for the day. We would highly recommend spending at least one night at one of the many hot spring hotels that have large, relaxing bathtubs fed by hot spring water.

There are several things to do in the area besides lounging in your hotel tub. The Beitou Hot Spring Park has a hot spring creek that runs through the park. It is also a nice place to go for a stroll. And the Beitou Public Hot Spring (also called Millennium Hot Spring) is a public pool where you can relax for a small fee. While the entrance fee is nominal, just $40 NT/person, they have a very strict swimsuit policy and most board shorts don’t pass muster. So men are often required to purchase one for a steep $250 NT.

Where to Stay in Beitou Hot Spring

Hotel Royal Beitou

Hotel Royal Beitou is a beautiful hotel that provides the perfect getaway from the city. Guests can take advantage of their private ensuite hot tub, or the public bathing pool onsite. There is also a spa and a well-equipped gym. You’ll never want to get out of your bathrobe and check out of this amazing hotel!

The Gaia Hotel

The Gaia Hotel has unbelievably comfortable, classically decorated rooms with every amenity you could ever want. And with a gym, hot spring, sauna, hydrotherapy pool, outdoor pool, and spa all located onsite, there’s no reason to ever leave this relaxing hotel!

11. Stroll Down the Jiufen Old Street

Jiufen is arguably the most popular day trip from Taipei, and also the most crowded spot in all of Taiwan. The covered old street is a narrow walkway filled with shops, food stalls, and tea shops. And hordes of tourists are slowly strolling along the street, stopping to sample the local fare.

If fighting your way through a small, crowded space doesn’t sound appealing to you, you’ll probably prefer to head straight for one of the popular tea shops with a great view. The prices aren’t outrageous and it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset! Amei Tea House is the most famous one in Jiufen so get there early if you want a good view.

12. Launch a Sky Lantern in Shifen

Shifen is a small town located along the historic Pingxi train line . It has gained notoriety among tourists as it is a popular spot to paint paper lanterns with your wishes for the future before launching them into the sky.

The streets lining the tracks are filled with food and drink vendors. The tracks are filled with tourists releasing their colorful lanterns into the sky. And whenever the train rolls by everyone scurries off to the edges to let it pass before descending on the tracks once again.

It’s an entertaining place to eat some tasty deep-fried squid and watch the lanterns floating by. But before purchasing one for yourself, you should note that many of the lanterns don’t actually burn. They drop back down to the ground and create a bit of a litter problem in the neighboring areas. We opted not to contribute to the mess.

13. Visit the “Little Niagra of Taiwan”

Shifen Waterfall is located right outside the town of Shifen. It is lovingly referred to as the “Little Niagara of Taiwan” due to its half-circle shape. Of course, Shifen Waterfall is not nearly as large or as impressive as Niagra. However, it is certainly the most scenic waterfall in the country.

It’s a short, 30-minute walk to the falls from the train station. Don’t worry about packing water or snacks, plenty of vendors line the entrance to the observation area. The main viewing platform gets quite crowded. If you continue along the path, you’ll find several others that you’ll probably have all to yourself.

14. Hike the Pingxi Crags (Xiaozishan Trail)

The Pingxi Crags hike (called the Xiaozishan Trail on Google Maps) is one of the best hikes that are easily reachable from Taipei in a day.

Start with a trek up Mt. Xiaozi on the Xiaozishan Trail. It is a short but strenuous walk up a series of concrete steps. You’ll begin at the base of the staircase, right near the Pingxi Railway Station. There is a map there that outlines various trails and scenic spots in the area.

After climbing for a bit you’ll come to another map and a split in the trail. Here you’ll continue up the stairs to the right. And once you come to a landing, you’ll see several steep staircases with ropes on each side to help you stay balanced. Take the set of stairs to the left of the small yellow sign. It’s the most obvious choice as the other staircase on the right is unfinished at the top. And once you reach the next landing, both sets of stairs lead you to the mountain peak.

The final ascent to the peak is not for the faint of heart. A ladder leads you up the steepest section. There are drop-offs on either side of the small lookout at the top. But the views are incredible and you’ll have secure ropes to hang on to. From the top, you can see stairs leading up to two other mountain peaks, Cimu Mountain and Putuo Mountain, in the distance. Both can also be climbed if you have the time and energy.

15. Trek the Sandiaoling Trail

The Sandiaoling Trail is a perfect place to enjoy Taiwan’s spectacular scenery while stretching your legs a bit. This flat, easy trail takes you past 3 lovely waterfalls – Hegu Waterfall, Motian Waterfall, and Pipa Cave Waterfall.

You’ll want to get off the Pingxi Line at the Sandiaoling Station and then follow Google Maps to the trailhead. Then, you’ll follow the tracks for a bit before you see a sign that points you in the right direction. You’ll reach the first waterfall, Hegu, after about 3/4 of a mile. The waterfall is impressive but unfortunately, you have to enjoy it from a viewing platform. You can’t get very close to the falls.

From there you’ll cross a few picturesque suspension bridges before coming upon Motian and Pipa Cave Waterfalls. The entire hike is just 1.5 miles each way (although the walk from the train station is about 1/2 mile). It should take you around three hours to complete. Even if you don’t make it to all three falls, it’s worth doing a portion of the hike. The surrounding scenery is quite beautiful.

Highlights of Central Taiwan

16. summit the sixiu mountains.

The Sixiu Mountains are 4 peaks located in Sheipa National Park in Central Taiwan. You can summit all 4, with or without a guide, but you’ll need to secure a permi t first. You’ll also need to book your huts quite far in advance, especially if you plan on hiking during the high season.

The bus drops at Hoya Resort and Hotel . From there you can take a tourist bus (NT$150 per person) that runs every hour and a half to get to other destinations in the park. Or you can try your luck at hitchhiking which is a very viable option as the park gets a lot of car traffic.

The most convenient place to stay is Wuling Villa (also called Wuling Lodge) , as it is right at the trailhead of Taoshan Trail. They provide dinner and breakfast the next morning. You can rent camping gear at the Camping Service Center but it is 2 miles from the Taoshan Trailhead. They do not have stoves or anything for water purification and their tent selection is minimal so you may want to bring your own.

Most people hike the Sixiu Mountains in either 3 or 4 days, depending on physical ability. There are two huts (that double as campgrounds). If you hike to Xinda Hut you can leave your backpack there and then summit Chihyoushan and Pintianshan Mountains. The other hut, Taoshan Hut, is right below the summit of Taoshan. You can leave your backpack there to hike to both Taoshan and Kelayeshan Mountains. Evenings are chilly so bring a jacket and long pants.

The most popular route starts at the Taoshan Trailhead and takes the Chihyoushan Trail up to Xinda Hut. It’s a difficult, vertical climb that gains almost 5,000 feet in elevation. You’ll want to start early, around 4:30am, and then just relax when you get to the hut. There’s a rain tank where the water runs from the roof of the hut to the tank but you’ll need to boil or purify it before drinking. On day 2 you should wake up early, leave your bags at Xinda, and summit Pintianshan. Grab your pack on the way out to Chihyoushan and if you feel comfortable, just leave your bag at the trailhead to the summit.

From there, hike to the Taoshan Hut to stay the night. Wake up early again the next day, leave your backpack at the hut, and start by summiting Taoshan. From there you’ll do the long, grueling hike to Kelayeshan. Once finished, retrieve your backpack from the Taoshan Hut and take the Taoshan Trail back down the mountain. It’s a grueling but insanely beautiful trek!

17. Enjoy Sun Moon Lake

Located in the Yuchi Township in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in the country. The lake and surrounding countryside are incredibly beautiful which is why it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Taiwan and a great addition to any Taiwan itinerary .

Most people choose to stay near Shuishe Pier as‭ it has plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from. It is also a good place to rent a motorbike so you can cruise around the lake. During your trip to Sun Moon Lake you’ll most certainly want to take a boat trip across the lake, as well as check out the Wenwu Temple‭, the ‬Ci En Pagoda‭, ‬and take a ride on the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway‭.

Where to Stay Near Sun Moon Lake

Shaoguang 188

Shaoguang 188 is an absolutely stunning hotel located right near the Shuishe Visitors Center. Rooms have very sleek, modern decor and all the amenities you could wish for. The beds are incredibly comfortable and bathrooms have a unique, open-air layout. You’ll feel right at home at Shaoguang 188!

18. Visit the Rainbow Village

The Rainbow Village is a quirky, colorful little village in the Nantun District of Taichung. Huang Yung-Fu began painting these houses to keep them from being demolished, and it has since become an off-the-beaten-path tourist destination in central Taiwan. Bring your camera, you will want to take countless photos in the Rainbow Village!

Highlights of Southern Taiwan

19. explore kaohsiung city.

Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s second-largest city but somehow it feels much less crowded than Taipei. It’s the perfect place to spend a few days dining on delicious Taiwanese cuisine, exploring temples and pagodas, and generally enjoying the culture of the country. There are a few specific spots that you must check out while exploring Kaohsiung city:

• Liuhe Night Market – where you can get fresh, delicious seafood at the many enticing food stalls that line the streets.
• Gao Xiong Po Po Shaved Ice – for arguably the best snow ice in the country! Just make sure you order “snow” which is shaved milk ice, rather than regular ice.
• Love River – where you can stroll along the banks of this lovely, peaceful river while soaking in the sights.

Where to Stay in Kaohsiung

Brio Hotel is a beautifully decorated, comfortable hotel with chic decor. Its central location is right near the tourist night market and walking distance to many of the top sights of Kaohsiung. Plus you’ll love soaking in the view of the city from their onsite restaurant!

20. Reverse Your Luck at the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

Located on the Lotus Lake in Kaohsiung city, the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are not to be missed during a trip to Southern Taiwan!

The twin 7-story towers are approached by a zigzagging bridge. It is believed that visitors should enter the towers through the mouth of the dragon on the left, and then exit through the mouth of the tiger on the right for good luck. And you’ll see by the paintings on the walls that the luck of those being portrayed begins very badly near the dragon and gets progressively better as you reach the exit.

Of course, you should also climb the spiral stairs all the way to the top of at least one of the towers (the view is more or less the same from both) to get a beautiful view of the lake and the Kaohsiung skyline on the opposite bank. And make sure to snap a photo in front, the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are one of the best Instagram spots in Kaohsiung !

And be sure to check out the many other temples sitting on the bank of Lotus Lake including the Spring and Summer Pavilions and Zuoying Yuandi Temple.

21. Admire the Dome of Light

The Dome of Light is tucked inside the busiest metro stop in Kaohsiung, on the B1 level of the Formosa Boulevard Station. But at nearly 100 feet in diameter, it’s pretty difficult to miss. And you shouldn’t miss it, because the Dome of Light is the largest work of glass art in the world!

The Dome of Light was designed by the Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata and in its 4,500 glass panels is the story of human life shown through water, earth, light, and fire. It is also meant to honor the birth of Taiwan’s democracy. If you’re lucky, your visit may correspond with one of the daily light shows that attract large crowds and lasts for about 5 minutes.

22. Check out the View from the 85 Sky Tower

The 85 Sky Tower in Kaohsiung is an 85-story, 1,140-foot skyscraper with an observation deck so it is the perfect place to check out the city from above. It was the tallest skyscraper in Taiwan until the Taipei 101 was completed in 2004.

While the 85 Sky Tower does have several bars and restaurants in the building, they are not located on the highest floors. The best way to get a view of the city is to head up to the observation deck on the 74th floor. Adults will pay NT$250 to access the observation deck.

23. Find Religion at the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum is a massive complex located in Kaohsiung. When you walk through the main entrance you’ll be amazed by the number of restaurants and shops. No need to eat before you visit, there is a delicious upscale vegetarian restaurant on the first floor and a very modestly priced vegetarian buffet on the second floor.

Once you proceed through the doors and into the complex the first thing that will catch your eye is the huge Buddha statue located at the far end of the courtyard. There are buildings lining the walkways but you’ll want to head directly to the museum at the far end. Here you’ll find countless exhibits that will give you more insight into the Buddhism religion and history.

The complex houses a relic that is incredibly important to devout Buddhists – a tooth that once belonged to Buddha himself. Construction began in 2001 and it took 10 years to complete. If you want to explore the entire area, be sure to give yourself several hours and bring a sun umbrella.

24. Trek in the Kenting National Forest Recreation Area

Kenting National Park is a large area of land taking up the southernmost tip of Taiwan. Here you’ll find beautiful beaches, scenic hikes, and a bustling night market in the center of town. Once you arrive in the town of Kenting you’ll want to rent a motorbike from one of the many vendors that line the streets so that you can cruise around the park at your own pace.

We had a good experience renting motorbikes from Feng-Xiang Motorcycle Rental (No. 243 Kending Rd.) and were able to rent a scooter for 24 hours for $500 NT.

The U-Shaped road that connects the northern and southern ends of town is a popular place for motorbiking and also hiking. We found the caves hike to be quite lovely, and mostly shaded which allowed us to escape the intense afternoon heat.

You’ll park at the ticket office and then take one of the trails through the park. A few not-to-be-missed highlights of the area include the Seaview Tower and the Fairy Cave. You’ll enjoy getting a chance to see the beautiful nature of the area as you get off the motorbike and stretch your legs!

25. Lounge on the Beach

The town of Kenting has several lovely beaches, right nearby! Little Bay Beach is on the southern end of town and is a good place to go if you want to rent an umbrella and spend the day lounging. And South Bay Recreation Area is a large beach in the north with lots of bars and restaurants to keep you fed and hydrated. Both are popular with local and foreign tourists although very few Taiwanese people actually venture into the water.

And if you’re looking for some solitude, Kenting Beach is a long stretch of sandy beach with zero amenities. You won’t be able to rent an umbrella or buy a beer here, but you’ll probably have the entire beach all to yourself!

Be sure to check out the town of Kenting when the sun goes down. The main drag comes alive with vendors selling all types of delectable Taiwanese cuisine. Make sure you come hungry because you’ll want to eat everything in sight.

26. Check out the View From Longpan Park

Longpan Park is a small area located on the eastern side of the Kenting National Park peninsula. The views of the rugged coastline from here are superb and it’s a popular place to watch both sunrise and sunset in southern Taiwan.

We hope you have a wonderful trip to the beautiful island of Taiwan!

Planning a trip to Taiwan? Check out our favorite travel guides!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

View all posts

Related Posts

10 Unmissable Things to do in Taipei

Complete Guide to the Pingxi Line, Taiwan

2 thoughts on “the 26 best things to see and do in taiwan”.

This really helped me on my trip to Taiwan.

Love this list, a lot of good info but…how could you leave out Tarik gorge and Hualien?? That should be top 5 in Taiwan, for sure.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

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

18 Best Places to Visit in Taiwan in 2024! Taiwan Tourist Spots!

Categories Asia , Taiwan

Taiwan may be a small island but it is full of incredible places to visit in Taiwan! Taiwan Tourist Spots include  cultural-historic cities , port cities,   modern cities , National Parks and Islands , Taiwan really has it all!

Best of all, it’s easy to travel around Taiwan by train and bus and thanks to the size of Taiwan island, it’s possible to see a lot of Taiwan in 1 week or 2 weeks . Although if you have 1 month in Taiwan to spare, I’d say to go for it as you won’t regret visiting Taiwan!

Best Places to Visit in Taiwan

Related Posts:  2 Week Taiwan Itinerary!  / 1 Week Taiwan Itinerary! / How Much I Spent in Taiwan!

FIRST TIMERS GUIDE TO TAIWAN

I’ve been to Taiwan twice. I love the country so much! I have written lots of posts to help you visit Taiwan, start with my 8 Helpful Tips For Planning a Trip to Taiwan from Start to Finish and the Best Places to Visit in Taiwan !

TAIWAN SIM CARD The best way to stay connected in Taiwan is to buy this EasyCard & Sim Card package deal in advance . You’ll need an EasyCard to get around on transport in Taiwan anyway and at the same time you can get a Taiwan Sim Card with 4G and pick them up at Taipei Taoyuan Airport when you land!

GETTING AROUND TAIWAN

The Metro within cities in Taiwan is really great, easy to use and so safe. You’ll need an EasyCard which you top up with credit to use the metro and buses. To get around Taiwan, I loved travelling by train . As a tourist, we can’t use the direct Taiwan train booking system. Instead you can go to a train station a few days before and purchase your ticket, or book online in advance using 12GO Asia !

Taipei is the capital city of Taiwan and in all honesty, although Taiwan has so much to offer as you’ll see below, spending just 2-3 days in Taipei will give you a really good insight into what Taiwan is like and if you happen to decide to spend longer in Taipei, like 5 days in Taipei, you’ll have plenty of things to do in Taipei as it’s the biggest out of the Taiwan Tourist Spots!

I think Taipei is one of the most underrated cities in Asia and one of the best places to visit in Taiwan !

Related Post:  12 Taipei Travel Tips and Things To Know about Taipei!

I love Taipei because it’s a really easy city to get around. There are plenty of Taipei attractions and things to do in Taipei to keep you busy but because it’s not a super popular city and apart from the Taipei 101, which you must visit, there are no other super iconic places which make sightseeing in Taipei pretty relaxed.

If you’re interested in what to do in Taipei you can sightsee at places like the Taipei 101 and Chiang Kai-Shek Monument Hall which is probably the second most iconic place in Taipei . But you can also visit the themed cafes of Taipei like a toilet restaurant and the Friends cafe. Hit up a night market in Taipei like Shilin Night Market and Raohe Night Market which Taiwan is very famous for, and go hiking up Elephant Mountain.

Aside from the must-see places in Taipei , other reasons I love Taipei is because the Taipei Metro (MRT) is incredibly efficient and easy to use, it’s a safe city, the people in Taipei are lovely and there’s so much accommodation making it the best welcome to Taiwan that you can have!

Recommended days to spend in Taipei: 2-5 days.

Day Trips from Taipei

What’s really great about Taipei is how many places to visit near Taipei there are! Here are some of the most popular day trips from Taipei and places near Taipei that can be visited in just a few hours and are also best places to visit in Taiwan :

To learn about the Japanese colonisation to modern-day Taiwan and eat some amazing street food, visiting Juifen from Taipei is a good idea as it’s one of the biggest Taiwan tourist spots.

Explore the Northeast Coast of Taipei and stroll through Jiufen Village. Learn about Taiwan’s mining history and enjoy a scenic tour along the Northeast Coast.

If you’ve seen photos of an old street with street lanterns near Taipei, this is Shifen, definitely one of the most popular and best places to visit in Taiwan!

4. Yehliu Geopark

You’ll be mistaken for even being in Taiwan here! Here is my friends guide on h ow to get to Yehliu Geopark from Taipei !

It’s very possible to see Juifen, Shifen and Yehliu in one day on a day tour , in fact, this is the best way to do it so keep this day tour from Taipei in mind when planning your Taipei itinerary.

Join a group tour from Taipei to North Taiwan, where you’ll discover Yehliu Geopark’s rock formations, Jiufen’s mountain village, and launch sky lanterns in Pingxi.

5. Beitou Hot Springs

Closer to Taipei than you’d think, this slice of nature with actual hot springs is a good half-day trip from Taipei.

Explore the volcanic terrains of Yangmingshan National Park, visiting numerous historically and culturally important sites like the Beitou Hot Spring Museum.

6. Yangmingshan National Park

To go hiking in Taipei and for another one of the best places to visit in Taiwan , head to this National Park near Taipei!

7. Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung is a port city in Southern Taiwan and if you don’t fly into Taipei you’ll probably fly into Kaohsiung or out of Kaohsiung as it has the second biggest airport in Taiwan. 

Kaohsiung’s tourism is increasing a lot, it used to be a city that tourists didn’t go to, but not anymore. This is now one of the  best places to visit in Taiwan!

Related Post: Best things to do in Kaohsiung & 2-3 Day Kaohsiung itinerary

For things to do in Kaohsiung, if you like temples, there are plenty of temples in Kaohsiung to visit, especially around Lotus Pond which used to have the perfect Feng Shui, plus there’s an incredibly huge and impressive Buddhist Monastery near Kaohsiung.

There are 3 brilliant night markets to visit, a unique and cool creativity park called Pier 2 , and you can catch a ferry over to Cijin Island which will make you feel like you’re on holiday!

Kaohsiung is easy to get around thanks to its MRT system and although many of the Kaohsiung attractions may seem far apart, by MRT they are all really easy to get to.

Recommended days to spend in Kaohsiung: 2-3 days.

To help you plan your trip around Taiwan, have a look at all of my Taiwan Blog Posts here!

8. Taichung

To be honest, Taichung is pretty hard work to visit but I have to include it in this list of best places to visit in Taiwan because the best reason to go to Taichung is for its day trips!

Related Posts: 1-3 Day Itinerary for Taichung &  How To Do a Day Trip from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake.

As a city, there are not many tourist attractions in Taichung and it’s hard to get around as everything is very spread out and there’s no metro system, not like in Taipei or Kaohsiung.

Things to do in Taichung include visiting the Rainbow Village which is really nice to visit although very small so it takes an hour max, and it takes about 30 minutes by taxi from Taichung city to the Rainbow Village or a lot longer by bus.

Taichung has a few night markets and Fengjia Night Market is the largest one in Taiwan, and that’s saying a lot so this is worth visiting.

Another thing Taichung is popular for is its fame for being the creator of Bubble Tea. Chun Shiu Tang on Siwei Street is the original Bubble Tea store in Taichung and a popular place to visit in Taichung. In all honesty, though, Chun Shiu Tang is a chain of Bubble Tea stores in Taiwan and the tea you’ll get in here will be the same and there’s nothing particularly special about the Chun Shiu Original Store in Taichung, and it gets busy!

Recommended days to spend in Taichung: 1 or 2-3 if you want to take day trips.

9. Sun Moon Lake

It’s really easy to get a bus from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake and do a day trip to Sun Moon Lake from Taichung.

At the bus stop, they sell Sun Moon Lake passes which include bus travel, a boat ticket, a ropeway ticket and they can include bike hire too. It takes 1.5-2 hours to travel from Taichung City to Sun Moon Lake and once you’re there you need about 4-5 hours to see the lake and head over to Ita Thao Village. Even though you don’t need long, based on my trip, its still one of the best places to visit in Taiwan and a big Taiwan tourist spot!

Related Post:  How To Do a Sun Moon Lake Day Trip from Taichung!

10. Dakeng Hiking Trails

From Taichung you can also get a bus to Dakeng Hiking Trails.

There are a number of hiking trails and they are numbered, note that some of them are harder than others and the Dakeng trails in Taichung can get very busy on weekends so it’s the best time to go hiking in Taichung is on a weekday if you can. The easier trails get particularly busier than the harder trails too.

11. Hualien  

Hualien is a city along the East Coast of Taiwan, the city itself doesn’t offer much in terms of Taiwan tourism but it is a great base to see more of Taiwan’s impressive East Coast from which one of the big attractions in Taiwan!

If you are confident in riding a scooter/moped, this is the best way to get out from Hualien and explore the coast. Places to visit near Hualien on Taiwan’s East Coast include Beibin Park,   Nanbin Park  and Four-Eight Highland .

In addition to this, for things to do in Hualien, I found the Hualien Night Market to be good so make sure you make time to eat there one evening.

If you don’t want to hire a scooter or a car, I found the bus system is a pretty good way of how to get around Hualien and I used the public bus to go to Taroko National Park .

Recommended days to spend in Taichung: 2-3 including Taroko National Park

12. Taroko National Park

I visited Taroko National Park as a day trip from Hualien and it’s one of the best places to visit in Taiwan if you want to go hiking in Taiwan !

Related Post:  How to Do a Day Trip to Taroko National Park via Bus from Hualien!

To hike some of trails in Taroko National Park you need to get a permit which can be tricky to get, however it is possible to hike many of the trails in Taroko Park without a permit, including the famous Taroko Gorge , and there’s even a regular bus service throughout the park if walking isn’t for you or you want to walk and get the bus (which is what I did, you can read about this here).

The centre of Taiwan is full of nature and hiking in Taiwan is one of the popular things to do in Taiwan for tourists and for locals.  Taroko National Park is one of the most visited National Parks’s in Taiwan due to its ease so I think this should be on your Taiwan itinerary to show you another side of the Island to the big cities.

Tour Taroko Gorge, an Asian wonder, in a day from Taipei, guided by your personal driver. Experience striking attractions and scenic trails.

Note that Taroko, like all of Taiwan’s hiking trails and National Parks, gets very busy on weekends as lots of Taiwanese like to venture out hiking too so if you have the flexibility I’d recommend that the best time to visit Taroko National Park is during the week.

Recommended days to spend at Taroko National Park: 1 day.

Tainan used to be the capital of Taiwan back in 1683–1887 but it’s still the cultural capital of Taiwan now and therefore a good place to visit in Taiwan. Although initially, the city seems pretty similar to Taichung in architecture once you reach the centre you’ll start to see the history.

Tainan has a big Dutch influence thanks to the Dutch occupying the South of Taiwan for a number of years and this can be best seen at Fort Provincia and Chihkan Tower which used to be a Dutch outpost and are popular things to do in Tainan. Shennong Street tucked between the many normal streets of Tainan is a pleasant surprise filled with little shops and restaurants and many Chinese lanterns. This may be the Taiwan you have been thinking of.

More things to do in Tainan include visiting  Anping where you can visit Fort Zeelandia and Anping Tree House for fairly unique places to see in Taiwan as no other city I’ve seen has these kinds of attractions. Finally, Tainan isn’t short of night markets and the most popular night market in Tainan is the Flower Night Market .

The only downside to Tainan, in my opinion, is its lack of metro like Taichung and the fact that Uber doesn’t currently work in Tainan so you have to use the buses (which can be tricky to work out in Taiwan I’ve found) or get a taxi by the meter so keep this in mind when planning your best places to visit in Taiwan!

Recommended days to spend in Tainan: 1-2 days.

• Related Posts:
• 2 Week Taiwan Itinerary!
•   1 Week Taiwan Itinerary!
• How Much I Spent in Taiwan!

14. Taitung

Taitung is much less visited than other cities in Taiwan but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go and if you are not a ‘city person’, Taitung will be a good place to visit because you can hire a scooter and be in Taitung county seeing nature and more of the East Coast of Taiwan in a short amount of time.

One of the popular Taitung attractions is the aboriginal tribes and people, in Taitung you’ll be able to learn about them and taste some of the local aboriginal food, one of the big reasons it’s one of the best places to visit in Taiwan!

Recommended days to spend in Taitung: 1-2 days.

15. Kenting National Park

Kenting is in the very Southern tip of Taiwan and closest to Kaohsiung. Some blog posts recommend that you can visit Kenting National Park on a day trip from Kaohsiung but the bus takes a few hours so it will be a long day.

The best way to see Kenting is to hire a car or get the bus to Kenting from Kaohsiung and hire scooters but do be sure to look into the situation around driving licences. 

Kenting does look beautiful online with incredible white beaches and Kenting Town is full of restaurants and bars, but I heard from 2 different travellers that they didn’t enjoy it that much which is what made me decide not to go.

I don’t think Kenting is a good place for solo travellers to visit in Taiwan due to how to get around, but it does seem good for families or a group.

Recommended days to spend in Kenting National Park: 2-3 days.

16. Green Island

Taiwan is not just about the mainland, there are islands in Taiwan to visit too! Green Island Taiwan is a volcanic island located on the south-east coast of Taiwan and is accessible by boat from Taitung or by plane from Taipei or Taitung airports.

The best way to get around Green Island is by electric scooter, you can explore the island in just a few hours due to its size and explore the beaches on Green island, its local villages and its history at places like the Human Rights Memorial.

Recommended days to spend on Green Island: 2-3 days.

17. Penghu Islands

Located on the western side of Taiwan are the  Penghu Islands which are one of Taiwan’s best-kept secrets! The Penghu Islands are made up of 90 islands, although a number of these are uninhabited. Things to do in Penghu Island include surfing and windsurfing in its awesome waves. Penghu also has the world’s first submarine postbox you can dive or underwater helmet-walk to send a waterproof postcard.

Recommended days to spend in Penghu Islands: 2-3 days.

18. Keelung

Keelung is in the very North of Taiwan and is another Taiwanese port city. I docked here for a day on a cruise trip around Japan.

There are a few things to do in Keelung like visiting Temples , Chung Cheng Park , an abandoned building and it’s night market but in all honesty, there are not many tourist attractions in Keelung so if you are on a tight itinerary for Taiwan , I’d recommend leaving Keelung or going on a day trip from Taipei to Keelung as there are much better cities in Taiwan to visit.

Experience Keelung on foot with a local, savoring Taiwanese street food at the Night Market, featuring delicacies like herbal tea and curry noodles.

Recommended days to spend in Keelung: 0.5-1 day.

How to Get Around Taiwan?

Trains in taiwan.

Now you know the best places to visit in Taiwan, how easy is it to get around Taiwan?

It’s actually very easy! Taiwan is connected by train the whole way around the island . There are train lines that loop of the outer edge of the island. Trains in Taiwan are fairly inexpensive (not like Japan!), and for most train journeys in Taiwan, you can choose from the TRA which is a local train but is still very quick and comfy, or HSR which is the high-speed rail train. The high-speed trains in Taiwan are extremely fast and they do cost more than the TRA. However, due to the small size of Taiwan, all trains will take between 1-4 hours.

For tourists in Taiwan you can buy train packages like this which give you unlimited train travel in Taiwan for a certain amount of days:

3 Day Tourist Rail Pass for Taiwan’s High-Speed Trains.

5 Day Tourist Rail Pass for Taiwan’s Local and High-Speed Trains.

You can also buy train tickets online via Klook for Taiwan’s trains for example:

High-Speed Train from Taipei to Taichung.

High-Speed Train from Taipei to Tainan.

12GO Asia is another way you can book trains in Taiwan and check the running schedule. 12GO Asia is the biggest transport booking platform in Asia, so book your Taiwan train here !

Buses are another way to get around Taiwan and buses connect all of the major cities . For example, Taipei to Taichung is a popular bus route in Taiwan.

TAIWAN ITINERARY HELP

Here are my top Taiwan itinerary posts to help your plan your trip:

• 1 week Taiwan Itinerary!
• 18 Best Places to Visit in Taiwan!
• How to Plan a Trip to Taiwan!

TAIWAN ON A BUDGET

Taiwan isn’t the cheapest country but it’s not the most expensive either and can be travelled on a reasonable budget. Here’s my post on the cost of travel in Taiwan and how to travel Taiwan on a budget !

Car Hire in Taiwan

Hiring a car in Taiwan is very popular, the roads and driving in Taiwan is extremely good, not like many other Asian countries which foreigners can find hard to drive in. I met a few people who had hired a car in Taiwan so I recommend looking into this to give yourself total freedom.

When it comes to getting around Taiwan cities, as mentioned above, Taipei and Kaohsiung have the MRT metro which is easy and reliant to use. Other cities without a metro have a bus system, Uber also works in most places in Taiwan.

To get around on public transport in Taiwan you’ll need an EasyCard which can be used throughout the country.

If you are flying into Taoyuan Taipei Airport you can buy an EasyCard and Sim Card package deal at the airport to save you time and hassle!

Best Time of Year to Visit Taiwan

I have visited Taiwan in March and early November which are both great times to visit Taiwan as the weather was good, not wet and not too hot.

In the summer months, Taiwan gets extremely hot and sweaty as well as bringing rainy season with it so summer in Taiwan is not a good time of year to travel to Taiwan. In winter in Taiwan, the country cools down, especially in Taipei in the North however it doesn’t get too cold.

The best months to visit Taiwan are during Spring and Autumn I say

• More of my Taiwan Posts:
•   2 Week Taiwan Itinerary!
• 1 Week Taiwan Itinerary!
• ALL TAIWAN POSTS

If you liked this please share it! 🙂

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Friday 27th of December 2019

Dear Ellie, I just found your amazing blogs and vlogs! I will be going to Taiwan in April and I will be definitely sourcing from your precious articles. Also, you gave me lot of courage to travel solo since all my family is scared about it. I love your style of travelling. Thank you so much! I would have one question.. do you recommend any site for searching the train/ bus timetable? I will not rent a car and would like to round the island clockwise :) Have a great travels and thank you for inspiring! Simona (Prague)

TheWanderingQuinn

Tuesday 7th of January 2020

Hello, this is so nice to hear and thank you for letting me know. Taiwan is so incredibly safe and the people are really nice so you will be fine. To be honest, I have always found it hard to find train times online, I don't think people book them online there. The best thing to do is to go to the station when you arrive and ask then and book a ticket for a few days time. It seems like everyone does it and I have never had a problem with trains or buses being fully booked in advance. :)

The 15 best experiences you can have in Taiwan

Oct 19, 2023 • 12 min read

From soaking in hot springs to sampling all the flavors at the night markets, here are Taiwan's top experiences © iStockphoto / Getty Images

Taiwan is a country with more facets than the 11-headed Guanyin you’ll see inside its temples.

On a single trip, you could be cycling between skyscrapers, drinking coffee at plantations, sun-bathing, forest-bathing, soaring on luscious homegrown whisky, or reeling from rocket fireworks and the repertoire of a night market. The options are endless. 

So whether you’re a first-time visitor or coming back for more, deciding what to do might just be the hardest part of your trip. Here are some of the best experiences in Taiwan.

1. Take your pick of 15,000 temples

Pick a couple, if not more. Be they incense-filled and packed to the eaves with idols and art or a dusky roadside shrine, whether Taoist, Buddhist, Confucian or folk, temples offer a fascinating glimpse into Taiwan’s spiritual life.

You’ll see devotees, including a surprising number of young people, praying and giving thanks. They burn joss paper for the departed, toss moon blocks to seek divine guidance on whether to buy a car, and make offerings of guava, orchids and sesame crackers to a pantheon of deities.

During festivals, temples offer up a smoky and noisy slice of local life. On quiet days, with their relics, sculptures and caisson ceilings, temples are museums in their own right. 

Both Tainan and Lukang are home to a wealth of old structures, from understated Confucius temples to Mazu temples rich in southern Chinese folk decorative art.

Some favorites from all over the country are Taipei’s Unesco-award winning Bao'an Temple , Lukang’s graceful Longshan Temple , Penghu’s old Tianhou Temple , Tainan’s fierce City God Temple , and Changhua’s Nanyao Temple with its Doric columns.

Local tip: Entering and leaving a temple the proper way – through the "dragon door" on the right-hand side and exiting through the "tiger door" on the left – means you go into protection and leave danger behind. The center door is reserved for the gods, the abbot and the president.

2. Sunbathe on Jibei Sand Tail, Penghu Islands

The windy collection of islands known as Penghu is distinctive yet hard to pin down. Set along its roaring coastlines are sea-facing temples, coral stone-walled villages where vendors sell seashell pendants and prickly pear sorbet, and beaches good for water sports. In winter, Penghu becomes a windsurfing hot spot for top-class athletes the world over. 

Added to this mix are geological wonders, a large aquarium  and remnants of ancient sea trade in all their desolate splendor. Further still, Penghu cuisine is celebrated for its delicious simplicity and plentiful seafood. If you come out of season, the golden spit known as the Jibei Sand Tail could be all yours.

3. Explore urban Tainan on foot

Urban Tainan has such a tight weave of attractions that walking is the best way to take everything in. Cafes, restaurants and dessert shops are liberally tucked into the fabric, offering abundant options for a refuel. And should you need some tiding over, there’s the T-bike and bus.

Many sights are clustered around the roads radiating from the Tang Te-chang Memorial Park roundabout in central Tainan. You’ll see the Museum of Taiwan Literature in a gorgeous Japanese colonial building, and the Altar of Heaven .

Slightly further out are the Neoclassical Land Bank , the art deco Hayashi Department Store , the old and the new Tainan Art Museums, the Confucius Temple with its red walls, and the City God Temple.

Further out still are the Great South Gate , Koxinga’s Shrine , Chihkan Towers , the Official God of War Temple  and the Grand Mazu Temple . 

From the roundabout, a 15-minute stroll northwest takes you to Shennong Street , an art village with shophouses repurposed into boutiques and cafes. Sharing the ‘hood with the hipsters are the Wind God Temple , the Water Fairy Temple and the King of Medicine Temple . 

Planning tip: Famous Anping Fort and the old streets sagging with traditional snack shops near it are 15 minutes away by T-bike or 45 minutes by bus from Shennong Street.

4. Hike along Swallow Grotto at Taroko Gorge 

Taiwan's top tourist draw is a walk-in Chinese painting. Rising above the froth of the blue-green Liwu River, the marble walls (yes, marble!) of Taroko Gorge swirl with the colors of an artist's palette.

Add grey mist, lush vegetation and waterfalls seemingly tumbling down from heaven and you have a truly classic landscape. Walk along the Swallow Grotto to see the gorge at its most sublime, or brave the Zhuilu Old Trail, a vertiginous path 500m (1,640ft) above the canyon floor.

5. Cycle or drive along the breathless East Coast at Hualien

Cycling is Taiwan’s national sport, and cyclists favor the stunning and unspoiled east coast for multi-day trips. Love the sea? Then ride the gorgeous coastline along the Pacific Ocean between Yilan and Hualien or Hualien and Taitung . It’ll leave you breathless in more ways than one. 

There are dramatic elevation changes in Taroko Gorge, and portions of the highways are subject to landslides after heavy rain. But the beauty is unparalleled, and you'll pass beaches, fishing harbors, indigenous towns and art villages.

Like the mountains? Ride the East Rift Valley and watch cloud drama unfold on glistening rice paddies or seas of orange daylilies. Both routes have indigenous guesthouses and restaurants, campgrounds, prehistoric sites and hot springs. No matter which you choose, a wonderful time awaits.

Local tip: If you charter a car from Taipei, the driver will stop at scenic spots and attractions. 

6. Do a homegrown coffee crawl and buy beans

Blessed with good soil and a climate and altitudes conducive to arabica trees flourishing, Taiwan has become the coffee mecca of Asia, bagging awards worldwide for its beans that range from peanutty to tea-like.

You can sip them at their source in Gukeng and Dongshan if you’re hiking nearby, but it's more fun to try different cafes that serve killer homegrown brews and also roast and sell beans. A bonus is the setting, which can range from retro Taipei and hipster book-and-bean to Nordic minimalism. 

Detour: Cacao farms in Pingtung grow beans and craft some of Asia’s finest chocolates. You can tour the premises, learn about the bean-to-bar process, and make your own sweets at Choose Chius and Fu Wan Chocolate .

7. Enjoy a feast at Miaokou Night Market, Keelung 

Grazing is a useful technique to have on the road, and Taiwan’s night markets are great for honing this skill. Fulfilling the need for food and entertainment (to say nothing of socializing), the markets bring happy crowds every night of the week to gorge on a bewildering array of snacks and dishes.

Check out harborside Miaokou Night Market in Keelung, in many ways the biggest and best of them all, for the quintessential experience of grazing (on seafood especially!) and people-watching.

8. Get a taste of gourmet Taiwan in Mountain and Sea House, Taipei

Taiwan may be one of the world’s street-food capitals, but don’t just limit yourself to casual eats – the country’s dining landscape has plenty more to offer.

Taiwan is steadily making a mark on Asia's culinary landscape. In the 2022 Michelin Taiwan, Kaohsiung, Taichung, Taipei and Tainan came under scrutiny and earned the country 38 stars, up from 20 and only Taipei being assessed in 2018. 

The lists don't just honor French-style cooking, expensive Japanese or meticulous Cantonese kitchens, but also solidly executed Taiwanese cuisine such as Taipei’s Mountain and Sea House .

Besides this, a growing number of chefs with or without awards are working magic with local produce from oolong tea to sakura shrimp, like Pingtung’s AKAME , which specializes in Rukai cooking.

Planning tip: Make your reservations at least a month in advance for famous restaurants – Michelin-honored and otherwise. 

9. Be wowed by the National Palace Museum, Taipei

Taiwan houses one of the greatest collections of dynastic Chinese artifacts in the world. With ancient pottery, bronzes and jade, Ming vases, Song landscape paintings and calligraphy that even those who are not art lovers can appreciate, Taipei's National Palace Museum isn't merely a must-visit, it's a must-repeat-visit.

Why? Out of the nearly 700,000 pieces in the museum's collection – spanning every Chinese dynasty, in addition to prehistory and the modern age – only a fraction is ever on display at one time.

10. Delve into military history while enjoying art at Alien Art Center, Kaohsiung

The military outposts of Kinmen and Matsu Islands, with their tunnels, forts and artillery displays, will please hardcore military buffs. But if you want something softer and unique enough that everyone can enjoy, head to Kaohsiung.

The dark and mysterious national relic that is the Imperial Japanese Navy Wireless Communication Station has finally found peace but for tent shows and exhibitions. Alien Art Centre , housed in a former hostel for young men departing for military service, is one of Taiwan’s strongest contemporary art museums. Cihou Fort  on Cijin Island was used by the Qing Empire, the Japanese, the Nationalist Army, and more recently, tripod-wielding sunset photographers. 

The engaging Military Dependents’ Village Museum shows how the families of soldiers of the Chinese Nationalist Army lived after their retreat to Taiwan post-1949. The high-rises of Guomao Community are the 2.0 version of such villages.

Do as the locals do – go there to enjoy authentic regional Chinese cuisines at the restaurants. In a compound next to Taiwan’s largest naval base, the Story House of Naval Base Zuoying details the area’s military heritage. 

Detour: New Taipei’s Human Rights Museum , sitting on the site of a former detention center for political dissidents, is recommended for insight into how far democratic Taiwan has come. The English audio guide is helpful. The museum’s sprawling branch on Green Island, a former penal colony, can be visited by booking a guided tour. 

11. Join locals in hazmat suits at the Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival

Attending a traditional folk festival is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience local culture. Taiwan has a slew of these – solemn, bizarre, carnivalesque, you name it.

You don’t have to be a believer to go – the locals are inclusive and welcoming, but be respectful, of course. It is not uncommon to see pilgrims and visitors from all over Taiwan and abroad at the most spectacular festivals.

The nine-day annual Mazu pilgrimage sees hundreds of thousands of people escorting a palanquin containing a statue of the goddess Mazu through 50 towns. The triennial Burning of the Wang Yeh Boats features powerful spectacles over eight days that end with the burning of a celestial boat on a beach.

The strange Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival is a blowout in which thousands in protective gear (or not) place themselves willingly in a melee of exploding fireworks. 

Planning tip: The Mazu Pilgrimage takes place in the third lunar month; the Boat Burning Festival in October or November, with the next one happening in 2024; and Yenshui’s fireworks go off on the 14th or 15th day of the first lunar month. If you attend the last, bring goggles, a motorcycle helmet and protective clothing if you don’t want to pay for overpriced gear on-site or end up in the hospital.

12. Follow ancient hunting trails through forests in Wulai

Taiwan is 50% forested, and asphalt gives way to the real thing astonishingly quickly – consistently  a delight for nature lovers. In the mountainous Wulai township, old indigenous hunting trails cut through misty tropical forests. 

Take a break from your trek to enjoy crystal streams or deep swimming pools, and repeat this experience all over the island. Taiwan is also two-thirds mountainous, with hundreds of peaks soaring above 3,000m (9,842ft) and well-established hiking routes all over.

Jade Mountain (Yushan) is the highest peak in Northeast Asia, but the second highest, Snow Mountain, is a more picturesque climb.

13. Understand Indigenous Taiwan at the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines

There are 16 recognized indigenous tribes in Taiwan. Though long suppressed, tribal culture and pride have made a remarkable turnaround in the 21st century. Begin your understanding at the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines in Taipei or the Museum of Prehistory in Taitung.

See their paintings and installations at the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts , a world-renowned authority on Austronesian art, and hear them read their poems at Tainan’s Museum of Taiwan Literature. 

Then check into an underground homestay run by Yami islanders on beautiful Lanyu Island, preferably during the flying fish season, or consider a visit to the communally run Smangus, a high-mountain center of Atayal culture.

In summer, head to the east coast for indigenous surfer towns and exuberant festivals celebrating harvests, coming of age, and a deep love of live music. 

Local tip: Sample Amis delicacies in Hualien . You can do so at the indigenous stalls in Dadongmen Night Market or at Amis-run Mu-Mang. 

14. Relax in Beitou’s hot springs 

Taiwan's ground surface has plenty of fissures, which gives rise to an abundance of spring sources hard to match anywhere on the globe. Locals believe the waters are effective for everything from soothing muscles to conceiving. 

If you like to soak in stone, wood or marble pools with mountain views, head to Beitou , Wulai or Taian. For wild impromptu dips, tread deep into valleys for a pristine wild spring like Lisong Hot Spring  (often considered the most beautiful of them all), or make your way to Green Island for one of the world’s three seawater hot springs. 

15. Tour the Kavalan Distillery to see how Taiwan’s single malts are made 

Whisky lovers, you’re in luck. Taiwan is a country of whisky drinkers, and they’re not only sipping imported Laphroaig or Hibiki – Taiwan’s own award-winning Kavalan is a huge favorite. The world seems to agree – at the Asia round of World Whisky Masters 2022, the homegrown label scooped up 10 golds plus a Master Medal.

You can try Kavalan on the rocks or in a smoky martini at one of the country’s many exquisite cocktail bars, such as Taichung’s Goût and Taipei’s Ounce , but you can also tour the distillery in Yilan for free and sample the single malts. 

Local tip: Taiwan has a lively craft beer scene with microbreweries popping up all over, but it’s best to taste homegrown beer in a bar such as Zhangmen , Le Blé d’Or and Taihu .

This article was first published November 2022 and updated October 2023

Explore related stories

Wildlife & Nature

Nov 8, 2018 • 6 min read

Sometime before dawn, a group of dedicated travellers huddle in the dark cold of a small mountain train station. Little puffs of breath rise on the frosty…

Jun 5, 2018 • 6 min read

Jun 29, 2016 • 4 min read

Aug 4, 2015 • 6 min read

Jan 5, 2015 • 9 min read

Apr 27, 2012 • 9 min read

Sep 26, 2011 • 3 min read

Sep 26, 2011 • 4 min read

Feb 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Oct 21, 2023 • 7 min read

• Visa Application Helpline

Subscribe to our newsletter

Learn how to live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle.

By signing up, you agree to the our terms and our Privacy Policy agreement.

What's Hot

Top 27 places to visit in darjeeling, explore the beautiful hills of darjeeling, top 10 things to do when traveling to shimla: shimla travel guide, the ultimate paris travel guidelines for first timers | top attractions & things to do.

The 15 Perfect Places To Visit In Taiwan

Having a rich number of mountains, beaches, canyons, and food, Taiwan attracts a massive number of tourists each year. The East Asian Island has it all to capture your attention.

September to November are the best months to lay your foot there. Having chilly, pleasant, and dry surroundings, you will surely enjoy visiting it more than usual.

You can go around enjoying their culture, architects, history and many more. What’s more interesting is that you can get a visa-free trip if you stay there for a short period.

The number of places to visit in Taiwan is uncountable. This article will give you information regarding every attractive spot you can find on this Island. So, let’s get into it. Why is Taiwan a trip-friendly country? Before knowing where to go, how about knowing why to go? Well, there are so many reasons why your trip to Taiwan won’t be disappointing. Here are some of them.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Why Should You Visit Taiwan?

Low crime rate

Having a low crime rate, Taiwan is the second safest country to visit. Although crimes like drugs, vandalism, robbery, bribery, and others exist, the rate is unnoticeable. So, you are not threat-prone when you visit this place.

Friendly people

Taiwanese people are extremely friendly and hospitable. They are polite and help their tourists. These people are honest enough to take your belongings to the nearest police station if they get a grab on them.

Some of them learned English to communicate and guide the tourists.

Captivating Sceneries

Taiwan is rich with scenery that will mesmerize its tourists. The country is green because it consists of forests in every nook and corner. If you are a mountain, hill, and forest lover, your eyes will get blessed by its greenery.

Great transportation system

If you are scared of going east to west or north to south in a new place, don’t worry. Taiwan has one of the safest public transportation. Once you get a good idea about it, you can travel all alone. There are plenty of rails and buses for you to hop on.

Lovely festivals

Their colorful festivals around the year will fascinate you a lot.

Around January and February, they hold a lantern festival. On this occasion, they release paper lanterns in the air.

They have an annual folk fest called Matsu Pilgrimage that gets hosted in March. They cover 300 kilometers in only nine days.

The Dragon Boat Festival in June takes place in local rivers.

Delicious foods

Taiwanis famous for its variety of cuisines and food. There are so many street food markets with their unique dishes. The stinky tofu, bubble tea, braised pork rice, and mango shaved ice are a blast to eat. But the highlights are undoubtedly beef noodles and seafood.

There are so many mysterious outlying Islands in Taiwan. So many tourists visit these every year that they are not damaged.

Ludao (known as the Green Island) is known for saltwater. Lanyu (Orchid Island) is known for its volcanic land. 

The oldest villages on these Islands are historical.

Great place for hiking

You will get top-notch hiking places in Taiwan. It consists of two-thirds of the mountains which makes it a hiking paradise. Jade Mountain and Snow mountains are the tallest ones in Taiwan. If you are a hardcore hiker, you can choose one of these.

Beautiful temples

Taiwan is full of beautiful temples built up to maintain culture and worship. Longshan and Guandu are the famous ones with metro systems.

Besides you can find so many more small, big, attractive temples around there.

Filled with museums

This beautiful land is filled with numerous museums. The National Palace Museum is considered to be the best of all.

Other museums give a variety of religious, cultural, and scientific visuals.

What are the best places to visit in Taiwan? 

There are literally so many places to visit in Taiwan . You can continue to go on visiting one after another yet the list won’t come to an end. To make your trip a bit easier, here’s a list of the top attractive places to visit in Taiwan .

It is the capital of Taiwan. This city is mesmerizing to take a stroll around. It is the center of the economy and politics of Taiwan. However, it is also filled with culture, festivals, architecture, etc. 

The main attraction of this city is Taipei 101 . Built in the year 2004, it earned the fame of being the tallest building in the world. You can take a look at the stunning old temples situated amongst the skyscrapers in this building.

Besides, you can find delicious food in restaurants, bars, and shops around the city. Taipei zoo is one of the most attractive tourist places in this area. Moreover, there is a botanical garden for botany lovers.

Not to exclude, the temple of Hsing Tian Kong earned quite a fame from its tourists. And do you know the best part? These captivating places are on offer.

In fact, there are nighttime street markets as well as so many museums. The National palace museum is here. You can get exhausted from taking a tour in Taipei, but it will surely be worth it.

2. Sun moon lake

Located in Nantou, a couple of hours away from Taipei city, Sun moon lake is an extraordinary tourist place. It is said to be the largest water body in Taiwan.

The place is named Sun Moon lake because the west of it depicts the sun, and the east resembles the moon.

You will find parks, forests, hotels, and yachts helping tourists move from one place to the other. Besides, you can go for a cable car ride to see the entire view of the lake. Or you can also take a ferry ride to enjoy the visuals.

As there are hills around it, you can go hiking. But in case you are a lazy person, you can choose to enjoy the boat ride on the lake. Moreover, you can also visit the temples nearby. They are the definition of beauty. The interesting part is that it remains open 24/7, and the entry is absolutely free.

3. Rainbow Village

It is an ex-military village. A former soldier named Huang Yung-Fu decided to paint the neighborhood to give it life. He turned it into an art with paintings of birds, animals, people, and other things. His artistic values turned it into a tourist place.

Although there is nothing mentionable to see here, a stroll around the colorful streets and houses will surely soothe your eyes. If you go to Taiwan, you should at least go once to Rainbow village. You need to reach408, Taiwan, the Taichung City of the Nantun District for a visit here.You require no entry free to go there and the visit hours are 8 in the morning to 6 in the evening.

4. Longshan Temple

Chinese settlers from Fujian built this temple in the 18th century. During world war two, it got away with an air raid. It now has many gods who got demolished with the temples in the neighborhood. It is one of the top-most places to visit in Taiwan.

If you are into religion or need spiritual peace, you must pay a visit here once. Moreover, it serves many religions and sets a unique example of unity.

Are you a weird lover of different kinds of smells? If yes, you will get intoxicated by the smell of incense sticks out there. In fact, the wooden design in the interior is very beautiful.

They have a belief in finding answers. According to them, when you roll two wooden blocks and they reach the ground, you will find the answer to the question you had back then. This place is situated in No. 211, Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10853.

It is the oldest city in Taiwan. The city is full of folk cultures, cuisines, temples, etc. And if you are a music lover, be glad to know that it is filled with pieces of music. The museums and parks around there are amazing to pay a visit to.

You can visit the Taiwan Confucian temple. It protects the values of ancient Confucian values and cultures. They keep the necessary musical instruments in the storeroom and perform rituals there.

Besides, you will find the National Museum of Taiwan history and literature and the national cheng Chung university museum. Fort provinta (also known as chikan tower), built in 1653, is another tourist spot in Tainan. You can have tons of shopping and recreation out there. It has boutiques, stores, and shopping malls all across the city. They hold a firework festival with beehives.

This place is undoubtedly a national scenic area. The transparent sea water will mesmerize your eyes to its finest. The striking cliffs out there look amazing. You can chill on the pure beaches. Also, what’s more, soothing to the eyes than a place with blue water and a beautiful blue sky?

It has many temples worth a visit. There are beautiful Chinese style-homes. And if you are a foodie, the seafood caters will not disappoint you for sure.

7. The high-heel church

This building gives off a striking vibe because of its design and architectural polishing. It was formerly built up with the heel shape for women as a church. However, due to its eye-catching design, it turned into a photoshoot and wedding spot.

Once you go there, you will see the maple leaf and loveseat benches designs. Talking about the location, it’s here at Haixing Street, Budai Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan 625.

8. The National Palace Museum

It is one of the biggest museums in the world which flexes Chinese artworks. It has almost 8 lacs of ancient pieces of artworks preserved there for display.

These ancient masterpieces include paintings, statues, jades, calligraphy, and much more. Jadeite Cabbage is the most demanding masterpiece kept on display all the time. Fortunately, they will provide you with an English tour guide.

The museum remains closed on Monday. And it is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening. However, you need to pay an entry fee of 350 US dollars per person. This museum is located in No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111.

The Japanese built this ancient Jiufen town. Earlier, people knew it as a gold mining town. It is located in the east of Taipei in the Ruifang District. This city is filled with a vast history and ancient buildings. Do you remember the famous movie spirited away?

They say the buildings in it were inspired by Jiufen city. You will find many tea houses and narrow alleys out there. There are streetfoods stalls also. The Shengping Theater is a tourist attraction. It was built in the 1990s.

10. Alishan National Scenic Area

If you are a nature lover, this is a must-to-go place for you. Its cloud-ringed peak is a blessing to the eyes. Besides, the green valleys look astonishing.

It is situated in central Taiwan. This place is home to tea trees. They planted the trees around the hill, and you will also see some clearings. This place is perfect for hiking. And the more you will hike through it, the more surprises you will find.

There are many more breathtaking plantations around the valley. On top of that, you will run into the Tsou people. They are friendly and hospitable. They offer tea to their guests. And their tea is delicious as they have their own recipe (sometimes even with fruits).

11. Taroko National park

This place is, of course, the best go-to spot for mountain lover people. Mountains continuously raised their heads and made the place so captivating.

Located in Taroko George, it is not any less beautiful than the six other national parks in the country. The park’s name is derived from the George running through it.

You can drive around the place to enjoy the breathtaking view. In fact, cycling around the place might be a better idea. Over the Eternal Spring, there’s a shrine worth seeing. It depicts honor to the veterans of world war ii.

You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking through the canyons or you can go river rafting. Not to skip the highlight, taking a bath in the Baiyang Waterfalls will give you a chill you never asked for. If you want to see the majestic views of this park, lay your feet on the Eternal Spring Shrine and the Swallow Grotto. Also, you can be a part of their Taroko music festivals. Their culture and hospitality will surely make you happy.

12. Yangmingshan National Park

It is situated outside of Taipei and is one of the most beautiful national parks in Taiwan (out of 8 others). This is a natural place with beauty all around it. There are so many beautiful flowers out there. Besides, you will find waterfalls and lakes in Yangmingshan park. There are also ridges and hillocks all over the park.

The dream lake full of serene water is a treat to the eyes. To add, the volcanic Xiaoyoukeng peak is equally attractive. As a tourist, you can go fishing, hiking, or swimming in the park. You can surely explore the place a lot and the experience will be one of the most satisfying.

13. Beitou Hot Springs

This place is one of the extremely relaxing spots in Taiwan. You must visit this scenic area to calm and ease your mind, to take a break from exhaustion.

Situated in North Taipei, this hot spring came into existence by being on the top of two continental plate fault lines.

There are private baths for people who want it their way. But if you run low on budget, there are public baths too. However, you have to wear a swimsuit in public baths, unlike the private ones.

There are a total of six pools there. Out of the six pools, 4 are hot springs and 2 are cold springs. They have flowers all around them.

You have to pay an entry fee of 40 dollars here. It is open every day of the week. However, the timings differ.

14. Kaohsiung

It is one of the most desired tourist places for foreigners and locals. This city always has something to offer to the people which makes it unique.

You will feel lively and energetic in this vibrant city full of peace. This city grabbed third place for being the most populous in Taiwan.

They have indulged in trade and commerce so much that you can see the effect on their mixed culture and cuisines. The good news for food lovers is that there are cuisines on offer.

Kaohsiung offers the most beautiful weather and scenery around the year. You can go hiking and cycling through the city to enjoy its views the most.

This city is full of history. Over time, more and more museums are growing over there.

15. Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

It is also known as Dragon Tiger Tower. These pair of towers are ancient Chinese temples. The buildings look mesmerizing with the mixture of red and yellow color tiles on them. Its interior is designed with paintings related to history. It is located in Zuoying, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The tower remains open all days of the week starting from 8 in the morning to 5 in the evening.

Top 5 night markets of Taiwan

Night markets are one of the most attractive places to visit in Taiwan offering diversified foods and cuisines to their customers. There are notably more than 70-night markets in Taiwan. However, most of them are in Taipei. If you are a nighttime owl, here are some of the mentionable night markets in Taiwan for you to take a stroll.

1. Shilin Night Market

Situated in the Shilin district of Taipei, it is known as the biggest night market in Taiwan. It opens at 4 PM. This market has many food trucks, small restaurants, and other shops with items inedible for sale. It is famous for bubble tea, oyster omelet, stinky tofu, Taiwanese tempura, and many other dishes.

• Address: No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111
• Phone : +886 2 2881 5557

2. Raohe Night Market

This night market is about 600 meters long. There are like three sections in the market. You will find daily necessary items in the first sections of the carts. You will get a grab on the physical goods( flowers, bouquets, etc.) in the second section.

Finally, in the third section, you will find food with amazing cuisines and fruits.

Their pepper buns, pork sparerib noodle/soup, Japanese steak, and fried milk got the attention of many customers.

• Address: Raohe St, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 105
• Mobile: +886 2 2766 8876

3. Ningxia Night Market

Customers get really excited every time they get a grab on the farm animals out there. Though the place is small, their food is delicious. Lemon aiyu, mango shaved ice, and chicken cutlets are the heartthrob of that place. Every food and fruit smells heavenly. The restaurant opens at 5 pm and shuts down at 1 am.

• Address: 103, Taiwan, Taipei City, Datong District, Ningxia Rd, 寧夏夜市
• Phone: +886 987 456 794

4. Shida Night Market

Located in District, Taipei, Shida Night market has 4-star reviews. It has outstanding foods, restaurants, and clothing stores for its customers. Pork buns, pineapple buns, creepers, etc. are their signature dishes. It opens at 4 pm.

• Address: Lane 39, Shida Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106
• Phone:   +886 901 111 319

5. Guangzhong Street Market

This market is very vibrant with its diversified arrangements for its guests. You can find many kinds of food vendors, shops, restaurants, and game-in in the Guanzhong market. Fried eggs and fish flour mixed with wasabi or red sauce caught the attention of many guests.

• Address: Guangzhou St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108
• Phone: +886 2 2550 5220

Hopefully, this article helped you to know which places to visit in Taiwan to enjoy your best. 

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

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

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

• South Africa
• Philippines
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Solomon Islands
• Itineraries
• About Travel2Next
• Hotel Reviews
• Travel2Next TV
• Travel Shop

• Destinations
• Things To Do

15 Incredible Things To Do In Taiwan

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

While Japan, Hong Kong and Thailand welcome millions of travellers each year, Taiwan is an Asian destination that is often overlooked. Off the coast of Southeastern China, just an hour away from Hong Kong, the island nation offers a variety of exciting attractions. Towering mountains, steep marble gorges, idyllic beaches and healing hot springs make Taiwan a paradise for nature seekers and adventure lovers. Also, it has the most diverse food scene in the world, thanks to the influences from Indigenous Taiwanese, Dutch, Spanish, Japanese and Han Chinese. Still not convinced why Taiwan should be on your list of places to visit ? Taiwanese-born food and travel writer Cat Lin suggests these fantastic things to do in Taiwan .

If you’re travelling with kids, you’ll be pleased to know that Taiwan is a family-friendly country, with excellent facilities and lots to keep the little ones happy. There are many Taiwan tourist spots suitable for families.

Top Tours and Tickets

1- explore taipei 101, 2- soak in beitou hot springs, 3- connect to ancient history at the national palace museum, 4- discover the unusual rock formations at yehliu geopark, 5- visiting the tea plantations and experience tea picking, 6- find the golden waterfalls, 7- sample taiwan’s most famous whisky, 8- white water rafting in hualien, 9- hiking taroko gorge, 10- go on a hot air balloon adventure, 11- meet the monsters at xitou monster village, 12- cycle around sun moon lake, 13- dine at night markets, 14- eat your way around tainan, 15- see the sunrise in alishan.

• Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass – 25 Attractions, Transports and More
• Private Full-Day Northern Taiwan Tour – explore the wonders of the north by car from Taipei.

Taipei 101 is among the world’s tallest buildings and an iconic symbol of Taiwan as well as the most recognisable Taiwan tourist spot.

Paying homage to the culture, the 101-storey tall glass structure resembles a traditional pagoda with discs on each side to represent ancient coins.

The interior is just as incredible.

Take a closer look inside by getting on the Guinness World Record-breaking high-speed elevator.

In only 37 seconds, you will be transported to the observatory on the 89th floor. Book your Observation Deck ticket here .

From there, you can see Taipei City in all directions.

Walk down to the 88th floor to get a glimpse of the giant wind damper that is used to offset the force of wind and help the building stand upright. 

To get a view of the building itself, hike up the Elephant Mountain, which is only a 20-min walk from the Xiangshan MRT station. 

The view is definitely worth the effort. 

Taipei is an easy city to get around. Read more about Taipei’s MRT system in this post on how to get around Taipei by subway .

Taipei 101 is one of the most famous landmarks in Asia and holds its own among these others:

Colonised by the Japanese, it was during the Japanese occupation natural hot springs were discovered in the mountainous region of Beitou.

Today, Beitou has developed into a resort destination where public baths are available to visitors at as little as (40 NT) and is one of the most popular Taiwan tourist attractions.

There are also plenty of upscale hot hotels and spa resorts with private day rooms for those who want some privacy.

Besides hot springs, Japanese-style tea houses, gardens, thermal valley, and museums are also popular Taiwan tourist spots and should not be missed if you’d like to learn more about the area’s history and hot springs culture!

Recommended tour: From Taipei: Beitou Hotsprings and Yangmingshan Volcano Tour

Home to over 600,000 imperial artefacts from ancient China, visiting the National Palace Museum is one of the top things to do in Taiwan for history buffs.

It has the largest collection of antiques in the world spanning 8000 years of history.

Browse through the paintings, rare books and objects made of jade, bronze and ceramic and you will be taken back in time.

Whether you prefer to tour on your own or join a guided tour, there are multiple ways to familiarise yourself with the different periods of Chinese dynasties.

There is even a mobile app you can download to explore the museum as a young detective. 

Recommended: Taipei City Tour with National Palace Museum Ticket

Make a trip to the northern coast of Taiwan and you will find one of the most stunning places to visit in Taiwan.

The dramatic landscape of Yehliu Geopark is rarely seen anywhere else in the world.

Thousands of years of sea erosion and weathering created these bizarre geological formations that seem otherworldly.

Some are so interestingly shaped that people have given them a nickname, such as “Ice Cream”, “Sea Candles” and “Fairy Shoe”.

The most famous of all is “Queen’s Head”, named for its likeness to Queen Elizabeth I.

Recommended tour: Private Full-Day Northern Taiwan Tour by Car from Taipei

Taiwan has an ideal tea-growing environment and is known for producing high-quality Oolong teas so it’s not surprising that one of the things to see in Taiwan is its tea plantations.

From north to south, Taiwan is covered with tea plantations where different types of tea are harvested each season.

To experience tea picking, there are a few places to go in Taiwan, such as Wenshan Farm in Taipei which grows the best pouchong tea and harvests tea year-round.

Xu Yao-liang Tea Farm in Hsinchu produces champagne oolong tea (aka Oriental Beauty) but its harvest season is limited summer (June to August).

In the south, Alishan’ high-mountain oolong and Jinxuan tea have repeatedly earned the reputation of being the best teas in Taiwan.

In this region, Ruei Ming Shiang offers tea picking, processing and tasting tours year-round (except April and May, with appointments only).

Recommended tour: Thousand Island Lake and Pinglin Tea Plantation from Taipei

Taiwan’s mountainous landscape makes chasing waterfalls an amazing adventure but have you seen golden waterfalls?

One of the things to do in Taiwan is to visit the former mining town in New Taipei City’s Ruifang District, where you will find beautiful golden waterfalls.

The natural wonder is formed because of the heavy metal elements deposited in the riverbed, which is then brought downstream by the rainwaters.

It is an amazing sight especially when it is shimmering in yellow-golden under the sun. 

Recommended tour: From Taipei: Jiufen Village and Northeast Coast Tour

If you find yourself on the eastern part of Taiwan, stop by the scenic countryside of Yilan and spend a day whisky tasting at Kavalan Distillery.

Whisky tasting is one of the unexpected and fun things to do in Taiwan. 

Kavalan has put Taiwanese whisky on the map with its award-winning tropical-fruit-style single malt whisky.

The distillery is open daily, taking visitors through the whisky-making process on-site at no cost.

For 1500 NT, you can upgrade your experience to taste whatever you want in the collection and blend a unique bottle of Kavalan Whisky, which makes a unique souvenir. 

For adventure seekers looking for some outdoor fun, one of the top things to do in Taiwan is to go on a white-water rafting adventure in East Rift Valley in Hualien. 

Rafting trips will take you through a 24-km long stretch of the Xiuguluan River, starting from Ruisui all the way to Changhong Bridge.

On this wet and wild journey, you paddle through more than 20 sets of rapids.

It is an unforgettable experience, full of splashes, laughter and remarkable scenery along the way.

While in Hualien, don’t miss the chance to visit Taroko Gorge, Taiwan’s most beautiful national park.

This 18-kilometer canyon was formed by erosion and earthquakes, cutting through towering walls of coloured marble.

Some parts of the canyons are over 1000 m high, making you feel so small and insignificant.

The park has many beautiful sights to see and plenty of spectacular hikes, making it a fantastic Taiwan tourist spot to visit. 

Changchun Trail is a popular one that will lead you to the famous Eternal Spring Shrine.

Tunnel of Nine Turns Trail is a short trail featuring enchanting scenes of marble cliffs, raging river and lush vegetation.

Recommended tour: From Taipei: Taroko Gorge Day Tour by Train

Explore the most untouched landscape of Taiwan by visiting Taitung in the southeast part of the island.

The best way to do this is by taking a hot air balloon ride, where you rise into the sky and soar above the picturesque East Rift Valley.

Winding rivers, a patchwork of farmland, lakes and rolling hills unfold before your eyes.

In summer, there are lots of things to see in Taiwan at the International Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival happening every year between June and August.

The festival is held in Luye Highland with dozens of hot air balloons flying high in the sky each year.

Besides hot air balloon rides that take place around sunrise (advance booking required), the festival also features music concerts and camping experience.

Go deep into the forest and visit the most quirky village in central Taiwan. 

Xitou Monster Village in Nantou was built in 2011 to commemorate the friendship between a Japanese man and Taiwanese man during the Japanese colonial period.  

Filled with statues of monsters, spirits and demons from Japanese folklore, the small whimsical village provides many photo opportunities.

It’s a fun tourist spot in Taiwan to visit, with food stalls and souvenir shops for visitors to discover.

Xitou Monster Village can be easily combined with a visit to the lovely Sun Moon Lake.

Divided into two by Lalu Island (one resembling a moon and the other a sun), this scenic lake is Taiwan’s largest alpine lake.

Its mountainous landscape and picturesque cycling routes continuously attract millions of visitors every year.

The entire loop is about 30km long, taking you around the lake with abundant photo spots along the way.

For those who prefer a shorter version, consider the route from Sun Moon Lake bikeway to Xiangshan, which is only 3.4 km.

Recommended tour: Taipei: Private Day Tour by Car

You can’t possibly visit Taiwan without checking out the night markets. It’s one of the things to do in Taiwan you simply cannot cross off your list.

If you don’t know already, Taiwan has the best night market scene in the world.

From traditional eats like oyster omelettes to inventive creations like cheese potatoes, you will find tons of yummy goodies to fill your belly. 

Shilin and Raohe Night Markets are the popular ones worth visiting in Taipei but for more unique drinks and eats, go to Fengjia Night Market in Taichung – it promises to dazzle your senses.   

Recommended tours:

• Taipei Night Tour & Din Tai Fung Steamed Dumplings
• Taipei: Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals

Speaking of food, it is worth making a trip to southern Taiwan, to the former capital and the oldest city – Tainan.

The city is commonly referred to as the food capital of Taiwan because of its strong culinary heritage.

In fact, it is where many Taiwanese dishes (like an oyster omelette) originated.

Other traditional foods include Danzai noodles, shrimp rolls, Taiwanese meatballs and coffin bread, which after a few bites will make you addicted.

Recommended tour: Kaohsiung Like a Local: Customi s ed Guided Tour

To see the most mesmerising sunrise, go to Alishan! Hop onto the Sunrise Viewing Train at 4 am in the morning and hike up to the Xiaoliyuan Mountain sunrise viewing platform.

There, you can gaze at the majestic sun rising above floating clouds and mountain peaks – totally worth waking up early for!

Cat Lin is a Taiwanese-born food and travel writer who loves adventure travel and enjoys sampling the local cuisine when travelling to foreign countries. She currently lives in Calgary, where she runs the food and travel blog For Two, Please with her husband, Kev. 

For more things to do in the region read:

For more things to do in Asia see:

• 50 Things To Do In Japan
• A Guide To Winter In Japan
• 20 Things To Do In Jeju Island
• 20 Things To Do In South Korea
• 15 Things To Do In Gyeongju
• 15 Things To Do In Seoul
• 20 Things To Do In Galle
• 50 Things To Do In Macau
• 21 Things To Do In China
• 20 Things To Do In Guangzhou
• 7 Things To Do In Xiamen
• 15 Things To Do In Taiwan

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

Editor's Picks

101 travel quotes – inspiring the journey, 60 luxury escapes for your bucket list, 25 australian landmarks, what's hot, 20 fairytale castles in wales.

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Taiwan

Located to the southeast of China , the island nation of Taiwan is one of the most densely populated countries in the world and its bustling and vibrant cities are full of beautiful old temples, fantastic museums and lively night markets which offer up a stunning array of delicious cuisines. Away from its busy streets, many visitors enjoy exploring Taiwan’s incredible nature such as the beautiful Sun Moon Lake and spectacular Kinmen Island.

A bastion of democracy and human rights, Taiwan has long been at loggerheads with China which still lays claim to the country and the Taiwanese are friendly and welcoming people who proudly uphold their independence.

With such a vast array of diverse things to do, visitors to Taiwan will have their time cut out trying to fit everything into a memorable trip. Explore this Asian island with our list of the best places to visit in Taiwan.

10. Kaohsiung [SEE MAP]

A bustling city, full of life and energy, Kaohsiung has something for everyone to enjoy and consequently it is a favorite tourist destination with foreigners and locals alike. Acting as both the maritime and industrial hub of the country, it is the third most populous city and commerce and trade have ensured that there is a wide mix of peoples, cultures and communities, which is reflected in the delicious cuisine on offer.

With great weather all year round and beautiful scenery surrounding it, it is a fantastic place to do outdoor activities, and both hiking and cycling will take visitors to many of the best viewpoints. In addition to all of this, Kaohsiung is home to lots of historic sites, and more and more museums are sprouting up each and every year.

9. Wulai [SEE MAP]

Located in the south of New Taipei City, Wulai is home to the Atayal people and is famous throughout Taiwan for its hot springs. As such it is now a tourist town and many people come here to wallow in the warm waters, learn more about the rich indigenous culture and explore the surrounding nature.

With loads of outdoor activities on offer, you can go hiking in the forests, go fishing in the river and also camp amongst the wild while enjoying the delightful scenery. Visitors can also buy some of the indigenous arts and crafts on sale and try some of the local food.

The undoubted highlight of any visit to Wulai is wallowing in the hot springs which are so abundant and the town’s mountainous setting only makes sitting back and taking in the view all the more magical.

8. Kinmen Islands [SEE MAP]

This group of islands is located in between Taiwan and China and is famous for being the site of a battle between the Nationalists and Communists in 1949, although it is now more commonly known as a popular tourist destination.

With loads of lovely scenery to be found on the islands, it is sometimes called ‘the park in the sea’ as there are so many bright flowers, forests and nature reserves for visitors to enjoy, with Kinmen National Park being the most popular on offer.

Historic buildings abound in Kinmen. There is lots of delightful old architecture for tourists to gaze upon, and a number of wonderful beaches can be found scattered about here and there. Famed for its local products and its delicious cuisine, the Kinmen Islands are certainly worth a visit when in Taiwan.

7. Kenting National Park [SEE MAP]

Considered by many to be the oldest national park in the country, Kenting is located in the south of Taiwan on the Hengchun Peninsula, and is a very popular tourist destination. With loads of lovely scenery on offer, visitors mostly come to enjoy the wonderful beaches and the tropical climate that makes it so appealing.

Bathed in beautiful sunshine, Kenting is marvelous to explore and there is loads of fauna and flora on show. One of the must-see attractions is the huge Eluanbi Lighthouse, which towers over its surroundings. A fabulous national park to visit, Kenting also hosts the famous Spring Scream festival which attracts thousands of music lovers every year.

6. Alishan National Scenic Area [SEE MAP]

A wild and wonderful place, the Alishan National Scenic Area is very mountainous and actually contains twenty-five mountains that tower to a height of two thousand meters or more. Exploring the hills, valleys, waterfalls and forests is a magical affair, and the scenery is stupendous to behold.

There are numerous trails and paths that will take you to some of the best viewpoints. A great way to see a lot of the reserve in one go is to take the Alishan Forest Railway, which snakes its way through forests and along mountainsides before stopping off at Fenqihu, a picturesque village with the ruins of a Shinto temple.

Home to the Tsou people who are renowned for their tea making, Alishan is an absolutely gorgeous place to visit and your visit will live long in your memory.

5. Lukang [SEE MAP]

The second oldest town on the island is a mesmerising place to visit, and it is particularly renowned for its delicious local cuisine and stunning architecture.

Located in the northwest of the country, it was once an important seaport and trading center, although its standing has long since declined. Thankfully that has meant that its historic buildings remain intact and there are remarkably over two hundred temples for tourists to visit, with Longshan and Matzu being among the most popular.

There is a wide range of architectural styles on show. Among the dishes that visitors to the city just have to try are the ox tongue cakes and oyster pancakes, which are specialties in the region.

4. Tainan [SEE MAP]

Formerly the capital of imperial Taiwan, this ancient city is well worth a visit and there are loads of interesting sights and cultural landmarks for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular parts of the city to visit is the Anping District, which is the historic heart of Tainan.

This area has lots of beautiful old temples scattered about, as well as Fort Zeelandia which was built by the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century. There are a number of great museums, such as the Chimei and Koxinga Museums, and there is loads of fantastic shopping to be had. Stop off at the night markets for some of the local cuisine.

With lots of lovely nature surrounding Tainan, you can easily take a day trip to the Nanhua or Hutoupi Reservoirs, or even head off to Taijian National Park.

3. Taroko National Park [SEE MAP]

Full of beautiful nature and incredible landscapes, this national park takes its name from that of the impressive gorge that runs through it, and as such it is well worth checking out when in Taiwan. Carved out over centuries and millennia by the winding Liwu River, it is Taroko Gorge that is the undoubted highlight of the area, along with the steep valleys, mountains and more features throughout the park.

With a number of great outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy, you can be river rafting one minute, hiking through the canyons the next and be bathing in the Baiyang Waterfalls later that same day.

The scenery on show is absolutely gorgeous wherever you go, and some of the best views are from the delightful Eternal Spring Shrine and the Swallow Grotto. A great time to visit is during the Taroko Music Festival, when you can explore and experience the culture and traditions of the people and communities that live in the area.

2. Sun Moon Lake [SEE MAP]

The delightfully named Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in the country and is a popular tourist destination amongst locals and foreigners alike. As such there are loads of hotels and resorts located along the lake’s shores and there are numerous restaurants, shops and bars that cater to the visitor’s every need.

With lots of outdoor activities on offer, you can go sailing on the lake, go for a delightful hike or bike ride in the hills surrounding it or relax on a boat trip across its tranquil waters and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. In addition to the stunning nature, there are some great temples for visitors to visit and there is also a cable car ride that offers up unforgettable views of the lake below.

1. Taipei [SEE MAP]

The capital of Taiwan is a marvelous place to visit, with a plethora of things for visitors to see and do. It is not only the political and economic hub of the island, but also the cultural one, as there is a lively arts and culture scene.

With an intoxicating mix of old and new to be found in the delicious food and stunning architecture, it is a captivating city to visit. Old temples are located amidst the skyscrapers, and the towering Taipei 101 actually used to be the tallest building in the world.

Fantastic restaurants, shops and bars abound in this bustling city, and there are loads of attractions on offer such as the Taipei Zoo, the Botanical Garden and the wonderful temple of Hsing Tian Kong.

For an authentic look at the local culture, head to the fun and friendly Raohe Street Night Market for some great food and entertainment, while numerous museums such as the National Palace Museum are on hand to help you delve further into the rich cultural heritage of Taiwan. After your time in Taipei, you’ll come away tired but happy at all of the amazing things that you’ve seen and done.

Map of Taiwan

Share this post:

24 Best Places to Visit in Africa

10 Best Mauritius Luxury Resorts

10 Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan

15 Best Things to Do in Ethiopia

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Venezuela

12 Top Attractions & Things to do in Madagascar

8 Best Mozambique Beach Resorts

29 Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

15 Best Things to Do in the Seychelles

10 Best Places to Visit in Central America

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

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

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

15 BEST Places to Visit in Taiwan

In a nutshell, some of the best places to visit in Taiwan you should not miss during your Taiwan trip are Kenting National Park , Sun Moon Lake , the Fengjia Night Market , and National Palace Museum .

Filled with delightful dishes, beautiful scenery, serene temples, and friendly locals, Taiwan should be on the itinerary for everyone. Taiwan is also the home to excellent and modern architectural attractions like Taipei 101, which are just as stunning as decade-old temples found across the nation.

Whether looking for relaxing hot springs and a more relaxing getaway filled with evergreen parks or enjoying your Taiwan holidays shopping in the busy night markets, drinking craft beers that are locally brewed, and singing karaoke, Taiwan will get you covered.

Taiwan is a small island located towards the east of China and has been the major attraction among the Taiwan tourist places. With beautiful water bodies, scenic mountains, and delicious food, there is no lack of the best places to visit in Taiwan and no wonder why more and more tourists frequent it.

Where to go in Taiwan?

Well, do not underestimate the island with its size. There is no lack of the best destinations in Taiwan, and the nation’s capital, Taipei. With so many Taiwan beaches , forests, museums, hot springs, and other attractions, it might not be easy to narrow down the list of best destinations in Taiwan to see and explore on your trip.

So, here are some of the worth-see destinations in this Taiwan travel guide without further wait.

❗️ Be insured before your trip and get a SafetyWing FREE insurance quote 📚 Read our post about why you should always have insurance ✈️ Find out how to find cheap flights using Skyscanner or find deals now 🛌🏻 Book your accommodation through Booking.com , Expedia , or Agoda 🎭 Find awesome and hassle-free tours through GetYourGuide or Tourradar 🚘 Explore the surrounding areas on an epic road trip, here’s our snack guide 📱 Read destination reviews and other traveler tips on TripAdvisor

Table of Contents

What are the top places to visit in Taiwan?

New Taipei City is the political, cultural, and economic landmark in Taiwan and the island’s largest city. It is a world where history and modernity meet, as old temples meet the authentic gourmet restaurants and future-ready shopping hubs.

Some of the best places in Taiwan and attractions of the nation’s capital are Flora Expo Park, Taipei Zoo, and the Botanical Garden. It is one of the best destinations in Taiwan because of many museums and centers, where visitors can better appreciate and understand the history of the land.

You can explore the breathtaking view of the stunning city at The Maokong Gondola via cable car, which celebrates many festivals all year-round. Some of the attractions that you should not miss are the Puppetry Art Center, the Taiwan Handicraft Museum, the National Palace Museum, and the Discovery Center of Taipei.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Taipei

Changhua County

Changhua County is one of the first areas to be developed in Taiwan, and fertile land is sandwiched by the mountains on three sides and Taiwan Straits on the west.

The Bagua Mountain Range is ranked among the best places to visit in Taiwan and Changhua County. You can enjoy your time cycling or hike along the serene mountains . You can also walk along with the nearest orchards and try some fresh produce like carambola, litchis, grapes, guavas, and watermelon.

In Changhua County, some of the best landmarks are Longshan Temple, Baguashan Great Buddha, and Baozang Temple.

Keelung City in Taiwan is the leading port city around the busy city of Taipei. It is also known as ‘Rainy Port’ as it plays a vital role in the second largest seaport of Taiwan and its constant rainfall.

Along with Bisha Fishing Port, some of the best places to visit in Taiwan and Keelung are Chung Cheng Park, Keelung Cultural Center, the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology, and Heping Island, Park.

There are different historical landmarks across the city, including Uhrshawan Battery, Pengjia Lighthouse, and Dawulun Fort. During the Mid-Summer Ghost festival , the city remains crowded every year since 1851.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Keelung

Yushan National Park

Yushan National Park is named after the Yushan summit, the highest peak in the world, stretching around 100,000 hectares. Along with many canyons, cliffs, and valleys, there are approximately 30 more peaks at Yushan National Park. Nanan, Tataka, and Meishan are three main centers you can enter from. It is one of the best places to travel to Taiwan for some reason.

You will get Taiwan to guide you along the park so you can get a close encounter with the flourishing species of flora and fauna. Some of the most popular animals are deer, sambar, black beers, and Taiwan macaque, along with other reptiles, mammals, and birds. The Yushan trail attracts visitors with stunning views of greens.

Chiayi is a settlement city to some of the earliest known Zhangzhou leaders. Visitors can witness a lot of well-preserved artifacts in the Yimin Temple and its rich history.

If you are an outdoor lover, you can have a great time in Lantan Holland Lake, Chiayi Botanical Garden, or Chiayi Park. The Alishan Railway can take you through scenic attractions in the forest.

There are several galleries and museums here, such as the Municipal Museum, Culture Center, or the Historical Archives, filled with beautiful exhibits to enjoy. Do not miss the Wenhua Road Night Market, where you can sample local dishes and know the residents.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Chiayi

Kinmen County

Kinmen County, popularly known as Quemoy, is a small island located off the coast of Taiwan, and it is highly reputed as one of the best places to stay in Taiwan.

It was once the fierce battleground of the war fought between the Communists and the Nationalist forces in 1949. These days, it is a well-known tourist attraction and often known as the ‘park in the sea’ because of lush greens and vivid flowers on the island.

In Kinmen County, visitors can buy some of the souvenirs that the island is famed for, including ceramic and porcelain products, and knives designed with old mortar shells.

You can purchase culinary dishes from oyster omelets and various seafood items to Cantonese congee and stuffed clay-oven rolls. These are some of the delightful things one should try.

Kenting National Park

Kenting National Park is the oldest national park in Taiwan as it was established in 1984. It is one of the best Taiwan destinations on the southernmost tip of the Hengchun Peninsula. The national park is very popular among both visitors and locals known for its Scenic Mountain, beach, sunshine, and tropical climate .

In the park, the diverse flora and fauna include mammals, reptiles, birds, and fish species. Some of them are rare bull sharks, hawksbill turtles, and more than 26 land crab species. The 70 ft. high Eluanbi Lighthouse is another attraction here that you shouldn’t miss, which was built in 1883.

Located on Hengchun Peninsula, Pingtung County, Taiwan, Kenting National Park covers Manzhou, Checheng, and Hengchun townships. It is the southernmost and oldest national park in Taiwan, covering the southernmost area around Bashi Channel.

Operated by the Ministry of the Interior by Executive Yuan, the national park is well regarded for its spring Scream, a rock band festival celebrated every year in March . It is one of the best places to see in Taiwan as millions of visitors frequent it every year.

Initially developed in the year 1723, Hsinchu City is one of the best places for Taiwan sightseeing well known for the science park, HSP, or Hsinchu Science Park, which is filled with prestigious research and academic institutions and houses over 370 high-end companies? It is a beautiful place to explore for visitors.

In Hsinchu City, some of the main attractions are the Shibajain Mountain Range, Green Glass Lake, the Hsinchu Zoo, and the Glass Museum of Hsinchu.

Also famed as Chenghuang Temple, the Hsinchu City God Temple is among the top-ranked temples in Taiwan. After exploring this stunning temple, you may walk through stalls around and try delicious Taiwan food, including the signature rice noodles.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Hsinchu

Hualien County

Hualien is the biggest county in Taiwan and is also known as one of the most scenic Taiwan destinations. With towering summits, azure skies, views of the Pacific Ocean, and scenic valleys, visitors are attracted to its natural beauty. Both locals and globetrotters flock here to visit the stunning natural attractions in the cool Taroko Gorge National Park or the East Coast National Scenic Area.

You may walk along the Tunnel of Nine Turns, which takes a half hour so visitors can enjoy the stunning views of some of the beautiful gorges, rivers, and marble cliffs. Hualien County is a well-known destination for marathon runners and cyclists due to its fresh air, stunning view, favorable weather, and a lot of well-paved bike trails. Every year, a lot of marathon events and cycling tournaments are held in Hualien County.

It is without saying that Taiwan is boasting with tons of stunning national parks .

The maritime and industrial capital, Kaohsiung, is a thriving city and metropolis for Taiwan vacation . The weather remains pleasant all year round, and the scenic attractions nearby have made it the best destination for Taiwan tourism.

Here, visitors can explore the well-known tourist sites like Xiziwan Bay, Love River, Lotus Pond, Mount Shoushan, and the Old City of Zuoying. You can experience the ocean, river, and mountain views via bicycling, hiking, and camping .

Visitors can experience various traditions and cultures and try different new foods. The Port of Kaohsiung is the busiest and largest harbor in Taiwan, and Kaohsiung International Airport ranks second in terms of passenger count. The city has excellent connectivity to several major cities by conventional and high-speed rail and various national freeways.

Kaohsiung city has a lot of natural attractions because of its geographical variations and large size, as it is bordered in the northeast by the Central Mountain Range and the South China Sea towards the southwest and west. The warm and year-round climate is ideal for coral reefs to grow across the harbor.

The small Shoushan Mountain is completely made of calcium carbonate and coral reefs, while the hilly districts include the highest mountain of Taiwan, Yushan. Some of the other natural and scenic attractions are Lotus Lake, Mt. Banping, and Dongsha Atoll National Park, which is closed to the public as the military occupies it.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Kaohsiung

Nantou County

Located in the heart of Taiwan, Nantou is the only landlocked county on the island. It houses more than 40 mountains, including Mount Jade of Yushan, the highest peak of Taiwan. The longest river in the island, Zhoushui winds along with the county and offers beautiful views.

You can also visit one of several recreational farms for a peaceful and pleasant stay in the countryside. You can enjoy your day at the stunning Sun Moon Lake. Some other attractions you should visit are the Ita Thao Lakeside Trail, the Aowanda National Forest, the Xitou Nature Education Area, and the monument, which is the own landmark of the geographical hub of Taiwan.

Miaoli County

Miaoli County in Taiwan attracts visitors from different parts of the world to explore the Shitoushan or Lion’s Mountain Head. It is one of the most beautiful temples in the nation, and visitors are recommended to spend at least a few days to find the ultimate relaxation and peace.

If you visit Taiwan, the combination of wood sculptures, ceramic products, seasonal fruit and tung blossoms, and a pleasant climate makes it an ideal stop. The Taian Hot Spring Scenic Area is a well-known tourist attraction along with the Mingde Reservoir Scenic Area and Dahu Strawberry Culture Park.

Taroko National Park

Taroko National Park was established in the year 1980 and named after the gorge of the park, which was carved well by the Liwu River. Visitors can raft along the soothing waters, walk the ruins of Tupido Tribe Trail, or take beautiful views of the Tunnel of Nine Turns.

Some of the brilliant attractions you should not miss are the Bridge of the Kind Mother, Eternal Spring Shrine, the Baiyang waterfalls Trail, Lioufang Chiao Bridge, and the Shakadang Trail. The national park celebrates the Taroko Music Festival every year, where one can enjoy the local traditions and meet the locals here.

Yilan County

Located only a few hours of drive from Taipei, Yilan County offers a lot of natural attractions to the tourists. Yilan County is filled with hot and cold springs where you can take a relaxing dip.

One of the best attractions includes the Qilan Sacred Trees Garden, which houses hundreds of ancient trees like the hinoki false cypresses of Taiwan.

Some other attractions are watching whales and dolphins, walking in Caoling Historic Trail, and camping in the Qilan Forest area.

FAQ’s about Taiwan travel

Is taiwan an expensive place to visit.

The answer is yes and no. That is perhaps not the answer you’re looking for but the thing is, it is all up to you and how you handle your finances while traveling.

The truth is, Taiwan is not the cheapest country to visit in Asia if you’ll compare it to less expensive countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia ( popular destinations for shoestring travelers ).

However, Taiwan is not as expensive as Japan, Korea , or Hong Kong. So, you’ll definitely get by on a budget! Just be mindful of your purchases and do your research before going.

So, is Taiwan expensive for backpackers? Again, it depends. If you have €50-100 a day to spend, you’ll do just fine around Taiwan but anything less than that, you might truly have to do a lot of research for your budget to be enough.

Here’s a good post on how to save money for travel .

Is 3 days enough in Taiwan?

It is sad to say but no. Even though with Taiwan’s effective public transport, it is definitely not enough to see the whole country.

However, if you’re only planning to visit Taipei, you’ll get a sneak peek of what the city is famous for. Sadly, unless you have superhuman powers and could transport from one place to another, it will be an exhausting journey.

Is Taipei worth visiting?

Absolutely! There are a lot of amazing things to do and experience in Taipei a lot of people would find interesting and unique. From delicious cuisine to stunning architecture and interesting culture and traditions – they are all worth learning and experiencing!

How long do you need in Taiwan?

We believe in the 1-week rule. If you’re not sure, stay for at least a week with a flexible date. If you like it, stay longer but if you think you’ve seen enough, you most likely can tell that in a week.

However, anything between 7-14 days is a good estimate to start with if you’re planning to check out all the places to visit in Taiwan. It is not a huge country to explore and with good public transport, you can get to any place in comfortable timings.

What cities should I visit in Taiwan?

You should not miss Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, and Hualien!

What is famous in Taiwan?

Taiwan is famous for many things and here are some of them:

• Stinky tofu
• Delicious cuisine
• Street food
• Taroko Gorge
• Night markets

Check out these activities in Taiwan

Are you on pinterest pin these for later read.

• Pinterest 2.0K

Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

Top 7 Places to Visit in Taiwan on Your Next Visit

Last Updated on February 15, 2024

Are you planning a trip to Taiwan? This beautiful country is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant city life. From bustling cities to serene natural wonders, Taiwan has something to offer every traveller. In this guide, here is my pick of the 7 top places to visit in Taiwan, ensuring that you make the most of your next adventure. Whether you’re seeking Taiwan tourist attractions, cultural experiences, or breathtaking landscapes, I’ve got you covered.

1. Taipei 101

Taipei 101, previously recognized as the Taipei World Financial Center, stands tall as an iconic tourist attraction in Taiwan that should be on every traveler’s list. Standing at 508 meters (1,667 feet), it held the title of the world’s tallest building until 2010. The panoramic vista from the 89th-floor observation deck presents awe-inspiring views that capture Taipei City and the surrounding mountains. It’s especially enchanting during the evening when the city lights up. Inside, you’ll find a luxurious shopping mall with international brands and a wide array of dining options, making it a fantastic destination for sightseeing and shopping.

2. Taroko Gorge National Park

Taroko Gorge National Park is a natural wonderland in Taiwan that captivates visitors with its stunning marble cliffs, deep canyons, and emerald-green rivers. The park covers an area of over 920 square kilometers (355 square miles), and it’s a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some must-visit places within the park include the Swallow Grotto, to witness the Liwu River cutting through marble cliffs, and the Eternal Spring Shrine, to pay tribute to the workers who lost their lives during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway. The park’s diverse ecosystems make it a hotspot for biodiversity, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Jiufen is a charming old mining town located in the hills of northeastern Taiwan. Steeped in history and culture, this picturesque town is famous for its narrow winding streets, atmospheric teahouses, and traditional red lanterns that illuminate the evenings. Jiufen’s unique blend of Japanese and Chinese influences is evident in its architecture and cuisine. Visitors can indulge in local street food, including the famous taro balls and sweet potato balls, while enjoying panoramic hillside views. Don’t forget to visit the A-Mei Tea House, an iconic tourist attraction perched on a hilltop that served as an inspiration for the Studio Ghibli movie, “Spirited Away.”

4. Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest body of water, is nestled in the lush Nantou County. The lake gets its name from its unique shape, resembling both a sun and a moon. Surrounded by mist-covered mountains, this place offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visitors can take leisurely boat rides to explore the lake or rent bicycles to cycle around its perimeter, taking in the breathtaking scenery. Additionally, a visit to the nearby Wenwu Temple adds a cultural dimension to your experience, as it is dedicated to Confucius, Yue Fei, and Guan Yu.

5. Kenting National Park

Kenting National Park, located at the southern tip of Taiwan, is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a must-visit place for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as surfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving. The park also features lush forests and coral reefs, making it a diverse destination for nature lovers. At night, the Kenting Night Market comes to life with food stalls offering a variety of Taiwanese and international delicacies. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, this place has it all.

Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, is a treasure trove of historical sites and cultural landmarks. It’s often referred to as the “Capital City of Taiwanese Culture.” Some must-visit places include Chihkan Tower, a Dutch-era fortification that offers insights into Taiwan’s colonial history, and Koxinga Shrine, dedicated to the national hero who resisted foreign rule. Tainan is also famous for its street food, and you can savour local delicacies like oyster omelettes and shrimp rolls at the countless food stalls scattered across the city.

7. Alishan National Scenic Area

Alishan National Scenic Area is a mountainous wonderland that attracts nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Known for its misty forests, ancient trees, and breathtaking sunrise views, Alishan offers a serene retreat from city life. Watching the sunrise from the Alishan Forest Recreation Area is a surreal experience as the sun’s first rays pierce through the sea of clouds. A network of well-maintained trails allows visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region, making it a top place to visit in Taiwan for hiking and photography.

Embrace the Diversity of Taiwan: Your Perfect Itinerary Awaits

Taiwan is a remarkable destination filled with diverse experiences for travelers. From the bustling streets of Taipei to the serene natural wonders of Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, and other incredible destinations, this island nation has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in Taiwan tourist attractions, cultural explorations, outdoor adventures, or simply figuring out where to go in Taiwan , these top places to visit provide a comprehensive itinerary for your next visit. So, pack your bags and embark on a memorable journey to discover the beauty and charm of Taiwan.

Related posts:

• Travel Challenge: Is it possible to visit Tel Aviv on a budget?
• Five Places Foodie Travelers Need To Visit In Iowa
• From Pucon to Ushuaia: Our route through Patagonia
• Welcome to Colorful Colorado: What to Do in Colorado Springs

Watch CBS News

How often total solar eclipses happen — and why Monday's was so rare

By Kerry Breen

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:05 AM EDT / CBS News

On April 8, a rare total solar eclipse  drew a "path of totality" over North America , throwing swaths of the United States, Canada and Mexico into darkness in the middle of the day. 

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking our view of the sun as it passes. It's called a total solar eclipse when the moon completely blocks the light of the sun. These events are rare, and can only be viewed in specific areas for short periods of time. 

The path of totality for the 2024 total solar eclipse stretched from Texas to the East Coast. Cities including Dallas, Texas; Buffalo, New York; and Burlington, Vermont, were among the areas with the best views.

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

Total solar eclipses are rare, and ones that are visible from the United States are even rarer.

The events occur every one to three years somewhere around the globe, but are often only visible from Earth's poles or from the middle of the ocean. 

A number of factors go into enjoying a total solar eclipse. Viewers need clear skies to ensure the phenomenon isn't blocked by clouds, and only those within the path of totality will see the full effect of the sun being blotted out. Those outside the path of totality can still observe a partial eclipse, when the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, NASA said .  

When was the last total solar eclipse? 

The last total solar eclipse was in 2021 and was only visible from Antarctica. The period of totality lasted just one minute and 54 seconds, according to NOAA .

The last total solar eclipse visible from North America was in 2017 . Parts of the United States from Oregon to South Carolina were able to witness the rare phenomenon. Before that , the last total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. was in 1979, when just five states were in the path of totality. 

When will the next total solar eclipse be?  

The next total solar eclipse will be on Aug. 12, 2026, according to NOAA . This eclipse will be viewable from the Arctic, eastern Greenland, northern Spain and Iceland. 

Those looking to see a total solar eclipse in the United States will have to wait significantly longer. A total solar eclipse won't occur in the contiguous U.S. until August 2044.

Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

More from CBS News

Mostly sunny and breezy, warm up continues

Miami Beach Pride Festival and parade drew thousands from around the world

Pleasant & breezy afternoon, warm up this week

Trump seeks to use New York "hush money" trial to delay Florida criminal case over classified document handling

How to Watch the Brilliant Lyrid Meteor Shower This Month

Fiery streaks will illuminate the night sky from April 15-29, with the spectacle’s peak occurring from April 21-22

Daily Correspondent

The highly anticipated total solar eclipse has come and gone—but astronomy aficionados have another reason to look up this month. Starting Monday, the Lyrid meteor shower will light up the night sky around the world.

Occurring each year in mid- to late April, the Lyrids typically produce 10 to 20 bright, fast meteors per hour at their peak, but they have been known to produce heavier showers of up to 100 meteors per hour. This year, the Lyrids will run from April 15 to April 29, with the peak taking place on the evening of April 21 to the early morning hours of April 22.

Ready for another skyward spectacle? Here’s what you need to know if you’re hoping to watch the Lyrids.

Where do the meteors come from?

The Lyrids are one of the oldest known meteor showers. Astronomers in China spotted them and made the first recorded observations of Lyrid meteors in 687 B.C.E., which means humans have been gazing upon the shower for at least 2,700 years, according to NASA .

As with other meteor showers, the Lyrids occur when Earth passes through the debris field of a comet—in this case, it’s the comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher . The comet is named after A. E. Thatcher , an amateur astronomer who first observed it on April 5, 1861.

C/1861 G1 Thatcher has a long trip around the sun—it takes the comet more than  415 years to complete a full orbit. This drawn-out journey means the year of its discovery—1861—was also the last time the comet Thatcher made its closest approach to the sun, known as the perihelion . The next time Thatcher will enter the inner solar system will be around the year 2278, according to EarthSky .

As the comet hurtles through space, it leaves behind a trail of dust and rock. When the Earth passes through Thatcher’s path, some of those pieces enter the atmosphere and burn up, creating fiery streaks of light in the process—which are often referred to as “shooting stars.” Lyrid meteors typically fly through the atmosphere at speeds of 29 miles per second, per NASA.

To viewers on Earth, the Lyrids appear to originate near the constellation Lyra , a point known as the shower’s radiant. Lyra’s brightest star—and one of the brightest stars in the sky, period—is Vega, which can make the constellation easy to find.

Most years, the Lyrids produce an average of 18 meteors per hour at their peak. But certain years have rare outbursts—in 1803, 1922, 1945 and 1982, the Lyrids produced upwards of 100 meteors per hour.

The timing of these outbursts is erratic and hard to predict. Some people have said they happen periodically, with roughly the same amount of time between each one, but “the data doesn’t support that,” NASA meteor expert Bill Cooke tells Space.com ’s Daisy Dobrijevic.

Tips for viewing the Lyrid meteor shower

The Lyrids are not as bright as the August Perseids , nor as fast as the Leonids in November . But they’re worth watching all the same.

This year, unfortunately, the Lyrids’ peak will align with a nearly full moon. That extra light will make it harder—but not impossible—to see the meteors in the night sky. In April, the full moon is called the Pink Moon , and it will occur on April 23, just after the shower’s peak. Sky watchers will have to contend with a bright waxing gibbous moon during the most prolific phase of the shower.

If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of a shooting star or two during the Lyrids, all you really need to do is head outside after dark and look up. To improve your visibility, however, it’s helpful to travel to an area with very little light pollution—like a certified Dark Sky Place , a national park or some other wilderness area. Wear warm clothes and bring a chair that lets you recline comfortably (or a blanket, so you can lie on the ground). Plan to spend periods of at least 30 to 60 minutes looking at the night sky, per BBC Sky at Night Magazine ’s Iain Todd.

Give your eyes 20 to 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness, and try to use red lights (instead of white lights) whenever possible. This also means you should try to avoid looking at your phone screen before and during your meteor-watching experience.

You might be tempted to stare in the direction of the Lyra constellation, but experts recommend letting your eyes roam around the entire sky. Keep your eyes peeled for fireballs, or occasional bright flashes produced by the Lyrids.

“It is actually better to view the Lyrids away from their radiant: They will appear longer and more spectacular from this perspective,” according to NASA. “If you do look directly at the radiant, you will find that the meteors will be short—this is an effect of perspective called foreshortening .”

Get the latest stories in your inbox every weekday.

Sarah Kuta | READ MORE

Sarah Kuta is a writer and editor based in Longmont, Colorado. She covers history, science, travel, food and beverage, sustainability, economics and other topics.