travel to tainan

A Travel Guide to Tainan, Taiwan’s Original Capital

Tainan City (臺南 or “Taiwan South”) is in many ways the best major city in Taiwan for experiencing Taiwanese history and culture.

For over 200 years, Tainan was the capital of Taiwan. To this day, it retains a traditional vibe , with some of the country’s most important historical attractions and temples. Many locals also consider it the food capital of Taiwan. Outside of the city center, there are some quirkier attractions, like Cigu Salt Mountain , Guanziling Mud Hot Springs , and Sicao Green Tunnel .

In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know for visiting Tainan, including the most famous and lesser-known sights, how to reach them, where to stay, how to plan your itinerary, and most important, what to eat in Tainan.

If you prefer a listicle, see these 70+ things to do in Tainan .

Table of Contents

Tainan History

Tainan’s history is so rich that it has been dubbed the Phoenix City (鳳凰城), after the mythological bird known to kill itself and rise from the ashes time and time again.

Tainan is the part of Taiwan where both Chinese and European settlers first arrived . The name Taiwan may come from the Taivoan aboriginal people who lived there at the time, or it may have come from the name “Tayouan” used by another local tribe, the Siraya.

Whichever theory is true , the word Taiwan eventually came to be used for the whole island, and the variation “Tainan” came to be used for that area. The Chinese chose the characters 臺南 or “Taiwan South”, which differentiates it from Taipei (Taiwan North), Taichung (Taiwan Middle), and Taitung (Taiwan East).

In 1622, the Dutch established Fort Zeelandia in today’s Anping District of Tainan. Dutch presence only lasted until Koxinga , a half-Chinese, half-Japanese pirate and Ming Dynasty loyalist, showed up and kicked them out.

While Koxinga’s Kingtom of Tungning based in Tainan only lasted 22 years, it would have long-lasting impact. Even today Koxinga is revered in Tainan and there are several temples dedicated to him. (As a fun side note, my wife’s family has the same surname as Koxinga (鄭), and they come from the Chiayi -Tainan area, so my father-in-law often jokes that he is a descendent of the pirate king.)

Koxinga’s rule ended dramatically when the Qing Dynasty took over – one Ming prince and his five concubines famously committed suicide in what is now the Grand Matsu temple in Tainan.

The following centuries saw waves of Chinese migration to Tainan and Taiwan. In 1858, the Qing rulers opened up Anping Port to foreign trade. Opium flowed in, while tea, sugar, and camphor flowed out. Today’s hot attraction, Anping Treehouse , is in one of those trading houses.

Tainan also became known for its salt production , with several salt-related attractions remaining today. This would last until 2002, when cheap salt flooded in after Taiwan joined the WTO.

When Taiwan was opened for trade, Taipei developed as the preferred port, thus the capital was moved from Tainan to Taichung (briefly) then to Taipei in 1887.

The Japanese kept Taipei as the capital during their colonial rule of Taiwan (1895 to 1945), but they also transformed Tainan. Several great examples remain and are tourist attractions, including Hayashi Department Store .

After the Japanese left and KMT arrived, Kaohsiung overtook Tainan as the main financial center in Southern Taiwan. Tainan of today is a medium-sized city with refreshingly few skyrises.

In 2010, Tainan City was merged with Tainan County (just like Taoyuan , Taichung, and Kaohsiung), so the whole area is now called Tainan City.

Tainan’s City Center is rich in historic temples and buildings. Anping District in the city’s northwest is known for Anping Fort (Fort Zeelandia), Aping Treehouse, and Anping Old Street.

Getting to Tainan

Tainan is well connected to other major cities on the west coast of Taiwan. The closest international airport is in Kaohsiung – Tainan Airport only has domestic flights. Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is 1.5 hours away by High Speed Rail.

If you come to Tainan by regular (TRA) train , you’ll fin Tainan Station is conveniently located in the city center, where many old temples and sights are. If you want to visit Anping District, you’ll need to take a bus from there (45 minutes). Travel time from Taipei to Tainan by TRA is 3 to 4.5 hours. Find out how to buy tickets for these trains here .

Tainan’s High Speed Rail (HSR) station is located here , southeast of the city center. If you come by HSR , the travel time from Taipei will be faster (1 hr 45 min). Here’s how to book HSR tickets .

But then you’ll need to take a taxi (20 min) or local train (20 min) from Shalun Station on the TRA (regular train) line to the city center. Shalun station is connected to the HSR station. Buy discount HSR tickets here .

Kaohsiung is even closer, at only 30 min to 1 hr (TRA) or 15 minutes (HSR). Just keep in mind that Kaohsiung’s HSR station is also not in the city center of Kaohsiung but in Zuoying district.

There’s no MRT in Tainan. Make use of bicycles (Tainan has YouBike but also their own local T Bike system), taxis, or local buses to get around, as the city’s main attractions are rather spread out. You can see quite a bit on foot, but the occasional bus or taxi will help. GoogleMaps is fairly reliable for bus times and stop locations.

To visit places outside of the city center, you’re going to need more time. Buses tend to be slow. Consider hiring a driver for a day if you want to visit multiple places outside the city. Guanziling Mud Hot Spring is easier to reach from Chiayi city than from Tainan’s city center, even though it”s technically in Tainan.

Where to Stay in Tainan

For the Tainan city center, Huzi Room Guesthouse (see on Booking / Agoda ) is conveniently located near Tainan Station. For a hostel, U.I.J. Hostel (see on Booking / Agoda ) is one of the nicest ones I’ve ever seen.

For visitors with kids, Hotel Cozzi (see on Booking / Agoda ) is excellent, with family-themed rooms plus indoor and outdoor play areas.

If you decide to spend a night in Anping District , for visiting the many attractions there, I highly recommend Anping Inn Here (see on Booking / Agoda ).

If you want to spend a night in a hot spring hotel, the best one at Guanziling Mud Hot Spring is King’s Garden Villa (景大渡假莊園) (see on Klook / Agoda ). Read more about it in the “Things to Do” section below.

Top Things to Do in Tainan

I’ll separate the below into the top attractions in Tainan City Center, Anping District, and Outside the City Center. You can see even more pictures and details about each of these places in my guide to the best things to do in Tainan .

Tainan City Center

The Tainan city center, especially the area west of Tainan train station, is rich in historical attractions. There’s a long list of temples in Tainan , several of which are the oldest or most important of their kind in Taiwan.

The Confucius Temple stands out as the most popular, but others worth visiting are Koxinga’s Shrine (延平郡王祠), Lady Linshui’s Temple (臨水夫人媽廟), Wufei (五妃廟 or Five Concubines Temple), Grand Matsu Temple (臺南祀典大天后宮), and God of War Temple (臺灣祀典武廟).

Hayashi Department Store (台南林百貨) is a really cool Japanese-era art deco department store where the elite used to go shopping. Today its shops still sell luxury teas, crafts, jewelry, souvenirs, and so on. Don’t miss the original Shinto shrine on the roof!

Other interesting attractions in the Tainan city center include Chikhan Tower (赤崁樓), Tainan Park (臺南公園), Tainan Wu Garden (吳園藝文中心), Blueprint Culture & Creative Park (藍晒圖文創園區), Tainan Art Museum 1 & 2 (臺南市美術館1館/2館) and Black Bridge Sausage Museum (黑橋牌香腸博物館).

For atmospheric streets, check out Snail Alley (蝸牛巷) and Shennong Street (神農街). You can even rent a qipao to take photos on Shennong Street at night, when the lanterns are lit (see more places to rent qipaos in Taiwan here ).

For visitors with kids, or anyone who feels too hot, cool off in The Spring (河樂廣場), when it has water in it, that is! It’s closed on Tuesdays, during water shortages, or when they decide it isn’t hot enough out.

321 Art Alley Settlement (321巷 藝術聚落), once a very cool attraction, is unfortunately closed for at least a few years.

Anping District

Anping is the area originally settled by the Dutch. Although it may not feel like it, it’s actually an island formed by Anping Canal (read about other fascinating Taiwanese islands here ).

Anping can be reached in about 45 minutes by bus from Tainan city center. It is a very traditional area with some fascinating attractions.

Anping Fort (安平古堡 or Fort Zeelandia) is the top attraction. Right next to it, Anping Old Street (安平老街, see my guide) is a very traditional street specializing in prawn crackers and dried fruits.

Also right next to the fort, Anping Matsu Temple (安平開台天后宮 or Anping Kaitai Tianhou Temple) is truly impressive, especially the roof details.

A short walk from Anping Fort, Anping Treehouse (安平樹屋) is a unique attraction. There, banyan tree roots have been left to take over a former trading company’s warehouse.

Besides the above must-sees, some smaller attractions in Anping District include Eternal Golden Castle (二鯤鯓砲臺), Deyang Ship Destroyer (安平定情碼頭德陽艦園區), a parked US Navy Ship, Lin Mo-niang Park (林默娘公園臺) with its giant Matsu Statue, Anping Salt Beach White God (安平鹽神白沙灘公園), and Big Fish’s Blessing (大魚的祝福, a whale art installation).

For beautiful sunsets, head to Sunset Platform (觀夕平臺) or Yuguang Beach (漁光島沙灘) on Yuguang Island.

Outside the City Center

Outside the Tainan City Center, but still technically in “Tainan City” the attractions become less about history and more varied.

South of the Tainan City Center, Chimei Museum (奇美博物館) is one of the most interesting, if unexpected, museums in Taiwan. The museum looks like the White House in Washington D.C. with the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, complete with the Fountain of Apollo from Versailles in front.

The museum houses the extensive private collection of a local billionaire, include an amazing display of violins and ancient weapons. Buy your tickets online here .

Right next to Chimei, Ten Drum Cultural Village (十鼓文創園區) occupies a former sugar refinery. You could spend a whole day exploring its skywalk, rides, art installations, cafés, second-hand bookstore, and more. It was created by the 10 Drum Percussion Group. Get your tickets here or visit it as a part of this tour .

Just north of Anping District in Annan District, Sicao Green Tunnel (四草綠色隧道) is the best way to experience the coastal wetlands of Taijiang National Park (台江國家公園). Although the green canopy of trees over canal is a little artificial, it’s undeniably beautiful.

Also in Annan, Luerhmen Mazu Temple (正統鹿耳門聖母廟) is the world’s largest temple dedicated to Matsu, goddess of fishermen and the sea. National Museum of Taiwan History (國立臺灣歷史博物館) is excellent but out-of-the-way.

Continuing north from Anan District will bring you to a few salt-related attractions on the coast. Cigu Salt Mountain (七股鹽山 or Qigu Yanshan ) is a literal mountain of salt that you can climb. You can also taste salt ice cream, salt douhua , and other snacks. Learn more about Tainan’s salt history at the Salt Museum (七股遊客中心) nearby.

Further up the coast, almost in Chiayi, Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields (井仔腳瓦盤鹽田) is an extremely photogenic collection of salt fields on the coast. You can even try raking some salt or climb the tower for an especially good view. It’s free to visit and included on this tour .

If you’re in the area, might as well add Beimen Crystal Church (水晶教堂), reminiscent of the High Heeled Shoe Church in neighborhing Chiayi .

In the north, Laohutang Art Village (老塘湖藝術村) is an atmospheric art village, although not super easy to get to.

Guanziling (關子嶺溫泉) in the northeast is where you’ll find Taiwan’s best mud hot spring. There you can soak in silty hot spring water or even rub the mud on your body, which is good for the skin. King’s Garden Villa (景大渡假莊園) is the best place to try it.

Also in the hills of northeastern Tainan, Dongshan Coffee Road (175咖啡公路) is a great place to coffee plantations and cafés with beautiful surroundings. Just a few examples are here , here , and here . It’s a popular road for cycling. If you’re interested in Taiwanese coffee regions, also don’t miss Gukeng area in Yunlin .

Find a way to remote Erliao Sunrise Pavilion (台南二寮觀日亭) for sunrise. Head to Caoshan Moon World Grand Canyon (草山月世界大峽谷) for cool landscapes. Last but not least, families will enjoy Zhuozhen Fossil Museum (臺南左鎮化石園區).

Best Tainan Tours and Deals

The Klook Tainan Pass can save you a little money. It lets you choose 2-4 attractions in the city and you have 30 days to use it.

You can visit Tainan’s top attractions on this day tour from Kaohsiung . To see the salt attractions plus Ten Drum Cultural Village , try this tour . You can also hire a private driver to make a custom schedule for your Tainan trip.

Discounted tickets for Sicao Green Tunnel , Ten Drum Cultural Village , Chimei Museum , and more are available on Klook.

How to Plan Your Tainan Itinerary

When checking travelers’ Taiwan itinerary in my Taiwan Travel Planning group , I usually recommend that they spend one night in the Tainan city center and one night in Anping District to best enjoy this city.

For Chimei Museum and/or Ten Drum Village , it makes sense to visit them either on the way to or from the Tainan HSR station, which they are close to. Otherwise, you could visit these two attractions together as a day trip from Tainan city center .

If you are want to visit off-the-beaten track spots like the salt attractions north of the city, you’ll need to the better part of a day to reach them by bus – consider to hire a driver for the day to speed things up.

If you want to visit Guanziling Hot Spring , it’s easiest to do it as a day trip or overnight trip from Chiayi City, perhaps before of after going to Alishan.

What to Eat in Tainan

Tainan has its own distinctive cuisine, which has earned it a reputation as the culinary capital of Taiwan. Some classic Taiwanese dishes started in Tainan and spread around the island, but others are still largely only found in Tainan and neighboring areas like Chiayi and Kaohsiung.

Tainan has a reputation for putting sugar in everything. Sugar was a hot commodity and status symbol in the early days of colonial Tainan. To this day, you will find that most dishes have some sweetness to them.

Some classic and modern Tainan dishes to watch out for include eel noodles (鱔魚意麵), fried shrimp/oyster rolls (蝦 / 蚵捲), danzai noodles (擔仔麵), coffin bread (棺材板), rice pudding (碗粿), milkfish soup (虱目魚湯), milkfish congee (虱目粥), and Spanish mackerel stew (土魠魚羹).

To find any of the above while exploring Tainan, I suggest that you copy-paste their Mandarin name to GoogleMaps to find vendors near you.

If you’re vegetarian or vegan, here’s my guide to finding vegetarian foods .

Tainan’s night markets are a great place to try the above, and the full gamut of Taiwanese street foods. But there’s something important to know: unlike most night markets in Taiwan , each night market is open on a different night of the week.

Go to Ta-Tung Night Market on Mon/Tues/Fri, Wusheng Night Market on Wed and Garden Night Market on Thus/Sat/Sun. All are a little outside the city center. See my guide to Tainan’s night markets for all the details.

In the daytime, check out the traditional Shuixian Gong Market (水仙宮市場) in the morning and the connected Yongle Market (永樂市場), which has lots of food stalls on its east side, and excellent sushi shop right next to the temple inside Shuixian Market.

For amazing ice cream, don’t miss these two shops on the same street. Tai Cheng Fruit Shop (泰成水果店) does amazing ice cream and fruit combinations. Quan Wei Jia Ice Cream (蜷尾家甘味處散步甜食) has interesting Japanese flavors of soft serve, like oolong tea and genmaicha (brown rice green tea).

Near Tainan Station, Xu Feng Hao (旭峯號) does ice cream and fruit juices in a very Instagrammable and iconic old building. For something more peculiar, there’s even a capybara café in Tainan, called Mogu Kabi – here are other places to see capybaras in Taiwan .

At night, check out Speakeasy Bar (赤崁中藥行), which is set up to look like a traditional Chinese medicine shop, and is housed in what used to actually be one.

On Anping Old Street, try the oyster rolls here and buy some prawn crackers and dried fruits to take home.

If you visit Cigu Salt Mountain, you can try salty douhua (豆花 or dessert tofu) and ice cream, while the Salt Museum has salty coffee in its café.

When traveling to Guanziling, no local visitor would miss stopping for a whole urn-roasted chicken (甕缸雞) on the way. Just a few possible ones are here and here . They’ll give you plastic gloves to rip the chicken apart yourself.

Tainan Events

In 2024, Tainan is hosting the 400-year anniversary of the arrival of the Dutch and founding of the city.

This will start with the 2024 Lantern Festival National Event , with festivities taking place in Anping district and around Tainan HSR station. See my Lantern Festival guide for all the details.

In other years, when it isn’t hosting the national event, Tainan will still have several lantern displays throughout the city, including the Yuejin Harbor Lantern Festival .

On the same day as the Lantern Festival, the annual Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival also takes place in Yanshui District of Tainan city. It is considered one of the most dangerous festivals in the world, with fireworks and bottle rocks being shot directly at crowds of people.

The Tainan Arts Festival usually falls in spring (March, April, May). Music lovers can watch for the Tainan May Jam and Tainan Summer Music Festival. For Dragon Boat Festival, Tainan’s races are usually help in Anping Canal. On Confucius’ birthday (September 28), expect festivities at the Confucius Temple in Tainan.

Winter is the best time to visit Sicao Green Tunnel and Taijiang National Park, where the rare migratory black faced spoonbill and other birds are best seen.

Last but not least, there are countless small temple fairs and parades throughout the year in Tainan, often in celebration of various gods’ birthdays. Don’t be surprised if you happen to stumble upon one. Follow the sound of firecrackers!

Read about other holidays and festivals in Taiwan here .

A Travel Guide to Taoyuan City, Taiwan’s “Peach Garden”

The 20 best night markets in taiwan, from north to south, 2 thoughts on “a travel guide to tainan, taiwan’s original capital”.

Hi. I enjoyed this post of yours! I’ll be visiting Tainan, for the first time, on 26-28 April. Would you have any suggestions on which places I should check out?

All my suggestions are in the article above.

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Taiwan’s True Capital

Most of you are here to create a Tainan itinerary—and I’ll address you all in a minute. But before I do, I’d like to tell a little story about how I came to find myself in Tainan one weekend in the hottest, wettest part of summer 2019 in the first place.

Indeed, I almost traveled to Tainan—I almost moved there!—a decade ago. Having reached the end of my rope teaching English in Shanghai , I reached out to an American couple I’d met traveling in Cambodia that February. It’s not a fantastic job , she’d been honest. But apart from us , he interjected, you’d be the only teacher there, so it would be a secure one.

The good news, of course, was that I ended up not needing to take them up on their offer: Days later, I got my first-ever online freelance writing gig, which was the springboard into making money online, and to enjoying the life I now lead. A life that eventually saw me relocate from Bangkok to Taipei .

Anyway, let’s get to my Tainan travel guide.

Where to Stay in Tainan

This does not, on its own, explain why I just spent the better part of 3 days in Tainan. For that we need to go back to late April, when I stayed in Taipei for a month to test out what living there would be like. An exhibition at Huashan 1914 Creative Park portrayed Tainan, which was Taiwan ‘s ancient capital, in an extremely flattering light—I was quickly sold; but finding the right opportunity to go took longer.

In fact, it was just about a week ago that my friend Sean (who originally hails from Tainan) said he might want to accompany me to his hometown. At the moment we checked into our stylish (but somewhat non-functional) room at Konkai Inn last Friday afternoon, our trip had been confirmed for less than 48 hours.

A Few of My Favorite Things to Do in Tainan

Tainan confucius temple.

As (bad) luck would have it, Sean’s mother suddenly fell ill around this time, so he headed to a nearby hospital to check on her as I began exploring alone. My first stop, Wu Garden , was so disappointing and bland I forgot I visited until I was going through my notes. The second, Tainan Confucius Temple , was beautiful enough, though it was undergoing extensive renovations, to say nothing of the downpour that began falling as I approached its main pagoda.

Hayashi Department Store

The heaviest rain tapered off, but the drizzle was steady enough that I decided to hold off visiting more Tainan attractions until Sean returned from the hospital. At that time, it was still a bit damp, so we headed first to 卓家汕頭魚麵 ( Zhuō jiā shàntóu yú miàn ) and dined noodles made from pounded fish right in front of a temple no less. Afterwards, we made our way to Hayashi Department Store , which was built when Taiwan was under the control of Imperial Japan and, appropriately, looks like it was transported directly from Ginza . We got lot in several picturesque temples and alleyways (as one does in Tainan) on our way back to the hotel, where Sean received news that his mother’s illness was significantly less serious than she had feared.

Chihkan Tower

I can’t lie: The rain of Friday afternoon and evening put me in a terrible mood, not unlike how I’d felt during the first several days of my melodramatic Taiwan road trip last October . As I went for my morning run Saturday, however, a blue sky revealed itself in the encroaching daylight. Sean wanted to sleep in a bit, so I retraced some of my footsteps from the previous day, stopping at the Confucius Temple (which looked much more beautiful in full sunlight), Quanmei Theater with its hand-drawn movie posters and Chihkan Tower , the most famous when it comes to what to do in Tainan, which originally dates back to the Dutch-colonial period of the mid-17th century.

Sicao Green Tunnel and Anping Old Town

Sean had woken up by the time I returned and, after a delicious breakfast in the cerulean-toned dining room of Konkai Inn, we made our way westward to the aptly-named Sicao Green Tunnel . I’d expected our boat ride through the mangrove swamp to be a hot mess, but while it was definitely hot it was often enjoyable, from the scenic views of Dazhong Temple , to wildlife like the vermillion fiddler crab and snowy black-faced spoonbill. Unfortunately, Sean started to feel a bit sick himself around this time, though he pushed on as long as he could. We managed to see about half the attractions in Dutch-colonial Anping ( Anping Old Fort , Anping Tree House and Anping Old Street ) and even eat both Chou’s famous shrimp rolls and dou hua tofu pudding before Sean finally cried uncle.

Garden Night Market

After Sean left, I ascended to the top of Fort Zeelandia , where the view (and the smeared windows through which I viewed it) ever so slightly let me down. I stopped in at a local coffee shop, where I enjoyed a delicious cocktail that mixed espresso and whiskey, and the local “coffin toast” specialty before making my way to to Eternal Golden Castle, where a black swan was swimming in the moat (surrounded, ironically, by white swan boats). Overheated and exhausted, I decided not to wait four hours at the nearby Sunset Platform , and instead headed back to the city center to meet Sean, who told me he felt a lot better. After a quick dinner of fried egg noodle ( yi mian ) soup at Xiǎodòu Dòuguō Shāo restaurant, we headed to one of Sean’s least favorite Tainan night markets, Garden Night Market ( Da Dong , his favorite, was closed).

Chimei Museum

Sunday morning, as our local train headed from Tainan Station toward the distant high speed rail hub that also bears the name “Tainan,” I realized I’d made a terrible omission during my Tainan itinerary: I hadn’t eaten dan zhai noodles, which are perhaps the city’s most famous dish, once. Sean, who’d taken this train to and from his rural home to his city high school, felt wistful as we entered the vehicle. As we stepped off and began our long march toward the European-looking Chimei Museum , which is owned by Tainan’s richest man Shi Wen-long, the heat of the day zapped us as quickly as the F-15s flying overhead, no doubt performing a drill to try and send a message to the thugs on the mainland . Inside, the exhibition raised my estimation of Shi’s wealth, and of Tainan’s, figuratively speaking: Tainan might not be Taiwan’s political capital anymore, but Chimei Museum is certainly the island’s most conspicuous display of culture.

When to Visit Tainan

It rained for at least the first 12 hours I spent in Tainan, which led me to believe that by traveling there on the second of August, I’d come during the bleakest part of the rainy season. In reality, both Saturday and Sunday ended up being clear (if scorching), so I’m happy to report that if you too plan to travel during the months of July and August, you should have at least a couple of clear days.

On the other hand, while many of the Tainan things to do are rather evergreen, even in the case of rain, I do wish I’d come during a slightly cooler time. Sean tells me that months like April and October are more pleasant and relatively dry, though if you’re already in Taiwan (living here like me or just chill in Taipei for a while, as one does), you might consult a weather forecast before taking a trip of the relatively last-minute sort (as one also does) and choose the sunniest weekend you can.

Tainan vs Kaohsiung

I originally thought to entitle this section Tainan vs Taipei, since it seems obvious to compare Taiwan’s original capital with its former one. However, provincial Tainan has little else in common with cosmopolitan Taipei, apart from how abjectly sunshine (or a lack thereof) transforms the mood of both cities.

Rather, I see more parallels between Tainan and Kaohsiung , the largest city of southern Taiwan. Although I grew to like Tainan more as my trip wore on, and in equal measure with how far off the tourist trail (which is rather minimally trodden, anyway) I wandered, I do think Kaohsiung is more satisfying during a comprehensive Taiwan itinerary than Tainan. Tainan’s slow-burn sights and fickle charm are better for Taiwan travelers (or residents, as the case may be) who are comfortable enough on this island to see—and dig—deeper.

FAQ About What to Do in Tainan

Is tainan worth visiting.

Absolutely! If my list of things to do in Tainan doesn’t convince you of that, I encourage you to speak to any Taiwanese person. Even northerners who hail from Taipei or Taichung love Tainan, for reasons I think are clear by this point.

What is Tainan famous for?

Taiwan is primarily famous for A) its culinary culture and B) the fact that it was once the capital of Taiwan. These reasons are well reflected in the list of Tainan things to do I’ve presented in this article, and are unavoidable when you visit.

How many days should I spend in Tainan?

This Tainan itinerary is based on the assumption that you will spend 2-3 days in Tainan. However, you can enjoy Taiwan’s true capital in as little as a day (a very long day!); you can easily spend a week in Tainan or longer without getting bored. The topic of how many days in Tainan is important, but it’s not essential—you can always come back, after all!

The Bottom Line

Once the weather (and my mood) became favorable to exploring Tainan, I quickly went from being ambivalent about (maybe even disappointed with) Taiwan’s original capital to being slowly but surely charmed by it. From the eclectic mix of Chinese temples and pre-war Japanese architecture in its immediate center, to the Dutch-colonial flair (but decidedly Taiwanese flavors) of seaside Anping, Tainan Taiwan is a city that demands time—and patience. Still not sure where it fits into your Tainan trip? Hire me as your Taiwan Travel Coach! Once you suss out things to do, whether in this Tainan travel guide or some other way, Tainan is a breeze of a city to explore!

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10 Best Things To Do In Tainan (3 Day Tainan Itinerary)

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2023

Categories Taiwan

Tainan was the 2nd city we visited in Taiwan and I liked it even more than Kaohsiung. Tainan is Taiwan’s oldest and the former capital (from 1683 until 1887).

That's why there are many interesting things to see and lots of historic sites to explore. Most of the things to do in Tainan are located in the very walkable city center.

Or, do as we did and cycle your way around town!

10 best things to do in Tainan

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:-).

3 day Tainan itinerary: map and highlights

We traveled to Tainan from Kenting National Park and spent 3 days in this lovely city.

Tainan was a particularly interesting city for us to visit, because of the Dutch history. I'm Dutch myself, so it's always interesting to visit places with a bit of Dutch history, though sadly, our history isn't always something to be proud of…

The city of Tainan is also famous for its many ancient temples, but there are many other worthwhile places to visit as well in this relatively small city. Check out the map below to see what to do in Tainan.

Click here for the interactive map.

3 days in Tainan: summary

• Tainan day 1:  visit the City God Temple, Koxinga's shrine, the great South gate, and the Tainan Confucious temple.
• Tainan day 2:  visit the Hayashi Department Store, the Land Bank of Taiwan, the Grand Mazu Temple and Chihkan Tower, Anping Old Fort, and the (Anping) Grand Mazu Temple.
• Tainan day 3:  visit the National Museum of Taiwan.

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 .

What to do in Tainan: itinerary day 1

After our excellent biking experience in Kaohsiung, we decided to continue our explorations by bike in Tainan as well (read more about the bike rental system in Tainan in the transport section below).

City God Temple

We cycled past the colorful City God Temple but didn't go inside as it was very busy with local people. I never want to intrude too much when people are worshiping, whichever religion it may be.

Koxinga's Shrine

Up next was Koxinga's Shrine, I particularly liked the beautiful garden.

An interesting piece of history: Koxinga conquered the Dutch who had established several outposts in Taiwan and subsequently founded his own dynasty (the Kingdom of Tungning).

Great South Gate

We continued to the Great South Gate. While the gate itself was quite nice, I loved the tree (pictured on the right) which is slowly but surely taking over the wall!

Confucius Temple

Our last stop of the day was the Confucius Temple, we strolled around the gardens and admired the beautifully decorated buildings, don't you love those doors!

The complex was built in 1665 and it's impressive how well-preserved the buildings and intricate carvings are.

Things to see in Tainan: itinerary day 2

Hayashi department store.

Tainan has a reasonably walkable historical centre so we started our second day on foot. It was just a short walk from our hotel  to the famous Hayashi Department Store, built during the Japanese rule of Taiwan.

When the store had just opened, people used to queue up to ride the elevator, a novelty for that time (1932)!

Across Hayashi Department Store is the Land Bank, an impressive-looking building that's modeled after a Greek temple.

Grand Mazu Temple

From the Land Bank, we walked to the Grand Matsu Temple (also known as Datianhou or Grand Mazu Temple).

This beautiful and colorful temple was built in 1684 for Mazu, Goddess of the Sea. The Mazu Temple is a very popular attraction in Tainan and a national monument.

Chikan Tower

Across the temple is the Chikan Tower, another interesting tourist attraction and rumored to have a secret tunnel leading all the way to Fort Zeelandia…

Next to the Chikan tower was a bike rental station and we hopped on a bike and cycled to the Anping area, the other district in Tainan you can't miss!

We cycled along the channel which offered some great city views.

It's around 5 kilometers from the Chikan Towers to Fort Zeelandia, you could walk as well but we preferred our bikes.

Fort Zeelandia (also known as Anping Fort)

For me, Fort Zeelandia was the highlight of our Tainan itinerary because I find it fascinating to imagine how people explored the world centuries ago.

Long before the arrival of planes, TV, and social media… Sailing into the unknown, not knowing if you would ever return to your home country…

It takes real courage and an adventurous spirit to sign up for such a journey!

Anyway, I digress. Fort Zeelandia was built by the V.O.C. (Dutch East India Company) on the shores of Southwest Taiwan in the early 17th century.

The fort was used as a trading outpost for several years, but eventually the Dutch were defeated and left Taiwan.

The fort was our final stop of the day, from the Anping district we cycled back to our hotel.

If you plan to visit multiple historical sites in Tainan, such as Anping Old Fort, Anping Tree House, Chihkan Tower, and the Eternal Golden Castle, you can save money with the Tainan Historic Sites Pass .

Places to visit in Tainan: itinerary day 3

National museum of taiwan history.

On our third day in Tainan, we visited the National Museum of Taiwan History. We cycled there (about 8 kilometers) in the early morning and spent the majority of the day learning about the history of Taiwan.

Did you know this little island has been occupied by the Portuguese, the Dutch, the Chinese, and the Japanese?! I did not, I learned that and much more in the museum, a day well spent.

Get the excellent audio guide! We bought a combination ticket for 2 people including entrance fee and 2 audio guides for just 250NT.

The best time to visit Tainan

We visited Tainan in mid-May and had nice weather. It was quite humid and hot, but we didn't have any rain.

Monsoon season starts at the end of May and continues until September. During monsoon season it's very humid and rainy so these months are not the best for a trip to Tainan.

Keep in mind that the winter months (December – February) can get relatively cold (around 10 degrees Celsius).

Altogether, the best months to visit Tainan are March/April and October/November . During these months temperatures are comfortable (around 25 degrees) and the chances of rain are the lowest.

Tainan travel budget

As you can see in the itinerary above, we did a lot of sightseeing in Tainan. However, this doesn't mean a visit to Tainan will break the bank.

In fact, it's very easy to visit Tainan on a budget, during our 3 days in Tainan we spent approximately €50 per day (for us as a couple, so just €25 per person!).

We ate delicious local food, drank bubble tea, and tried stinky tofu (not my favorite). Below you can find more information about our accommodation and how to get around Tainan city.

Where to stay in Tainan – Tie Dao Hotel

We felt Tie Dao Hotel was excellent value for money: we only paid €17 per night for a small, but newly renovated, room.

The location of the hotel is great, across Tainan train station and next to a T-bike station (Tainan's public bike rental).

We stayed in a spotless room with a comfortable bed. The bathroom was modern and the shower had good water pressure and a constant temperature.

Towels and toiletries were provided, and there were hot and cold water dispensers in the hallway. WiFi wasn't great but overall it was much more than we expected for the price we paid.

Important note: we first got room 1319 on the 13th floor, which was being renovated at the time of our stay. However, I asked for a different room because the room smelled strongly of cigarette smoke. We got a renovated room on the 2nd floor (219) instead, which was very clean and didn't smell at all.

How to get around Tainan: transportation

Cycling is very popular in Taiwan, there are great public bike rental systems in place in Kaohsiung, Taipei , Taichung , and, to our delight, in Tainan as well.

Since we're from the Netherlands, we're used to cycling everywhere.

So for us, this was the perfect way to explore these Taiwanese cities while getting some (much-needed) exercise in the process (because of all the delicious food we ate in Taiwan).

In Tainan the public bike rental service is called T-Bike, you can find more information on this website . There is an app available (in Chinese) that you can use to locate a bike rental station.

You can use an EasyCard to register ( read more about the EasyCard here and in my Kaohsiung post ) or pay with a credit card.

In order to register your EasyCard at a T-bike station, you'll need a Taiwanese number.

Unfortunately, you can only register one EasyCard per Taiwanese phone number in Tainan. We wanted to rent two bikes, so we used one EasyCard to rent a bike and our credit card for the second one.

Tainan things to do: in conclusion

That’s everything about our 3-day trip to Tainan, the old capital! It ended up being one of our favorite places in Taiwan and I hope this article has given you an idea of which places to visit in Tainan.

If you've got more time to spend in Tainan, here are some other popular places to add to your itinerary:

• Anping Treehouse: this is a former warehouse that's been covered by a huge banyan tree.
• Tainan Park: this is a lovely green park and a very pleasant space to relax or have a picnic.
• Tainan Art Museum: situated in the West Central District, this interesting museum features local artwork.

You can download the list of all the Tainan attractions mentioned in the post below.

Do you want to read more about traveling in Taiwan ? Also check out these posts:

• 10 amazing beaches in Taiwan
• 15 great Taipei day trips
• Taiwan travel budget
• Taiwan travel itinerary
• Things to do in Hualien
• Things to do in Kenting
• Things to do in Taitung
• Where to stay in Taiwan on a budget

This post was updated in February 2023.

Saturday 28th of October 2017

Will be heading to Tainan in December! Thanks for sharing this wonderful guide Lotte.

Very welcome! Enjoy Tainan and don't forget to eat lots of delicious food while you are there;-)

Wednesday 28th of June 2017

Excellent, informative post. So interesting to hear about the Dutch history in Taiwan, I wonder if any influence on the language or culture was left behind. I also had a curious experience exploring Hong Kong, which is an old British colony - its a wonderful, fascinating culture but I still stumbled across a traditional British afternoon tea, which was an offer I couldn't refuse.

Thursday 29th of June 2017

Thank you Mark! I don't think much of the Dutch culture was left behind, but definitely some architecture and Dutch names. Haha, British afternoon teas are the best:-). Do you have the name of the place? Would love to check it out next time I'm in Hong Kong!

Ryan Biddulph

Saturday 24th of June 2017

Hi Lotte, I never knew Taiwan had any Dutch influence? Fascinating. Your countrymen were great explorers though. I did know of the Dutch influence in Bali for many years before the Balinese became independent. Loving the pics. Tainan looks like a fun place to visit. Thanks for sharing :) Ryan

Monday 26th of June 2017

Thank you Ryan! Haha, yes the Dutch love to explore... Indonesia was a colony back in the days, as was Suriname (which we traded for New York, in hindsight that wasn't the smartest decision;-).

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Discovering Tainan’s Treasures: 9 Must-Visit Places in Taiwan’s Oldest City

What to do in tainan || discover taiwan’s most historical city + what to eat in tainan.

Tainan, with its centuries-old history and rich culture, is a unique destination that offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s multicultural past.

As the island’s oldest city and previous capital, Tainan boasts a wealth of heritage sites, culinary delights, and hidden gems that offers something for everyone.

Here’s our list of 9 places you absolutely must visit in Tainan and our top food recommendations!

What to do in Tainan || Anping Tree House What to do in Tainan || Anping Fort What to do in Tainan || Chihkan Tower (Fort Provintia) What to do in Tainan || Chi Mei Museum What to do in Tainan || Tainan Park What to do in Tainan || Flower Night Market What to do in Tainan || Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park What to do in Tainan || Hayashi Department Store What to do in Tainan || Shennong Street BONUS || What to Eat in Tainan What to do in Tainan || FAQs

What to do in Tainan || Anping Tree House 安平樹屋 Ānpíng Shù Wū

Your Instagram will thank you for visiting the Anping Tree House!

The Anping Tree House is actually a former 19th warehouse built on the grounds of the Tait & Co. Merchant House and served as a vital hub during the era of the Dutch East India Company.

Now, it’s enveloped by the sprawling roots of banyan trees.

Almost totally reclaimed by nature, the many rooms of the warehouse really are a breathtaking sight.

There’s no particular path you need to follow, you can simply give yourself an hour or so to wander round the ground and elevated pathways.

Once you’ve explored to your heart’s content, there’s an Anping Tree House Café on the grounds. It’s not just for coffee lovers, it even sells beer, ice cream and souvenirs.

You will need a ticket to visit the Tree House, but at 70NTD, it’s a steal!

TOP TIP || Most people will come here during the late morning or early afternoon. To beat the crowds, you could stay overnight at the AnPing Inn and be the first on the grounds when it opens at 8:30am

What to do in Tainan || Anping Fort 安平古堡 Ānpíng gǔ bǎo

Whilst Anping Tree House is the place to indulge your inner photographer, Anping Fort is one for your inner history buff.

Constructed by the Dutch in the 17th century, Anping Fort was a center of defense and trade.

As you might’ve guessed, it’s adjacent to the Anping Tree House, so you could tick both these places off your Tainan bucket list in one afternoon!

After its completion in 1632, Anping Fort was originally known as Fort Zeelandia (熱蘭遮城 Rè lán zhē chéng) until 1662, when it was captured by Taiwanese forces and referred to as King’s Fort.

It wasn’t until after WWII that the historical site was officially named Anping Fort.

So, having passed through eras of Dutch, Taiwanese and Japanese rule, Anping Fort is teeming with 400 years of history (including total destruction of some parts !) and is a must-visit cultural location.

TOP TIP || climb the stairs of the viewing tower for a spectacular views of the surrounding area.

To enter the grounds the grounds where Anping Fort is located, tickets cost 70NTD .

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What to do in Tainan || Chihkan Tower (Fort Provintia) 赤嵌樓 Chì qiàn lóu

Chihkan Tower, originally built by the Dutch as Fort Provintia in 1653 , is another fascinating spot that encapsulates Tainan’s colonial past and is one of the most famous sites in the city.

Once a hub of administration under the Qing Dynasty, the tower now houses a museum focusing on Tainan’s intricate history since its colonial days.

Inside, you’ll find a picturesque temple and pavilion.

On the grounds of Chikhan Tower, you’ll find a famous statue of Koxinga , a Taiwanese general, accepting the surrender of the Dutch.

Also on the grounds, at the south gate, are 9 imperial plinths carried atop of 9 Bixi (贔屭), which look like large stone turtles. According to Taiwanese folklore, the Bixi is one of the nine sons of the Dragon King.

If you time your visit well, you might even have the chance to enjoy a concert, which are often held in front of the temple!

What to do in Tainan || The Chi Mei Museum 奇美博物館 Qíměi Bówùguǎn

The Chi Mei Museum, opened in 1990, houses a treasure trove of historical artifacts, from classical art to prehistoric weapons to musical instruments.

It’s not only one of the most spectacular sights in Tainan – with the huge Fountain of Apollo and grand bridge leading to the museum itself, Chi Mei Museum is one of the most beautiful museums in the whole of Asia.

Whilst it has a few permanent exhibitions dedicated to Western art development and musical history, make sure to check out the Chi Mei Museum website for the latest gallery updates.

👉 Tickets will set you back $200, but the museum is well worth a visit and you can expect to spend a few hours enjoying the grounds and various exhibits.

Things to do in Tainan || Tainan Park 台南公園 Táinán Gōngyuán

Sometimes all we want is to escape the hustle and bustle of city life – Tainan Park is just the place!

This serene oasis is nestled in the heart of Tainan and is the perfect place for an afternoon picnic or sunset stroll.

Formerly known as Zhongshan Park , Tainan Park is home to a large lake, beautiful footbridges, several pavilions and even one of the few remaining Qing dynasty stone archways.

It’s one of the oldest parks in Tainan and like many places in this city, is rich in history.

It’s also a great place to absorb some local culture.

Older residents of Tainan can often be spotted here practicing Tai Chi, joining in dance classes and playing Chinese chess .

What to do in Tainan || Tainan Flower Night Market 花園夜市 Huāyuán Yèshì

A favorite of locals and visitors alike!

Tainan Flower Night Market is a vibrant and bustling market that comes alive in the evening, offering the perfect combination of food, shopping, and entertainment.

With around 400 stalls , this bustling market is the perfect spot for foodies keen to try all kinds of Taiwanese foods.

👉 If you’re not sure what to try, we’d recommend seeing which stalls attract the most locals!

Night Markets in Tainan || The Ultimate Guide

The Best Night Markets in Taiwan || The Big 5 Night Markets in Tainan Night markets in Taiwan are an absolute institution, and night markets in Tainan in southern Taiwan are arguably some of the best and most original and…

Once you couldn’t possibly eat anymore food, there’s still plenty to do at the Tainan Flower Night Market.

There’s balloon popping games, fishing games and stalls selling clothing, accessories and gadgets.

Make sure you go on Saturday, Sunday or Thursday, as it’s only open on these days.

However, with stalls operating from 5pm until midnight, you’ll have plenty of time to try everything this famous night market has to offer.

What to do in Tainan || Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park 藍晒圖文創園區 Lán Shài Tú Wén Chuàng Yuánqū

Housed within old Japanese government dormitories, the Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park captures the artistic streak of Tainan.

First opened in 2015, the park developed into an artistic hub and now boasts some of the best graffiti and street art in Taiwan.

There’s also plenty of sculptures and artsy gift shops to peruse.

The best time to visit is in the evening or at night, as it’s the best time to enjoy the 3D Blueprint art installation – think matrix crossed with Taiwanese streets.

Once you’re done feasting your eyes, we’d recommend you feast your stomach at the Xiaomimi (Little Secret) Noodle House – some of the best beef noodles you’ll ever have!

What to do in Tainan || Hayashi Department Store 林百貨 Lín Bǎihuò

The Hayashi Department Store stands as a relic of the Japanese colonial era and was first opened in 1932.

In 2014, the department store was restored to its former glory and you can buy a wide range of gifts of souvenirs, including boxed snacks, pins, stickers, socks, bags, mugs and more.

You’ll also find a lot of Hello Kitty and Mt Fuji inspired merchandise!

👉 Make sure you make it to the top floor, which is actually a rooftop Shinto shrine with pretty impressive city views.

FUN FACT || whilst Hayashi Department Store is also locally known as Five Stories (五層樓 wǔ céng lóu), it actually has six floors!

The Hayashi Department Store is a unique historical site. The elevator is one of the only remaining old style dial types and if you look carefully around the building you’ll see damage left over from US air raids in WWII.

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What to do in Tainan || Shennong Street 神農街 Shénnóng jiē

This charming historic street encapsulates Tainan’s heritage through its well-preserved architecture, traditional houses, temples, and artisanal shops.

As you stroll down its cobbled paths with red lanterns lining the walls, you’ll find plenty of picturesque spots, perfect for history enthusiasts and hipsters alike!

If you head over late afternoon, you’ll get to enjoy the daytime charms and see the lanterns all light up after dark.

Unsurprisingly, Shennong Street has its own fair share of history. During the Qing Dynasty, Shennong Street was the entrance to the Tainan Five Channels, a trading hub based in Tainan’s canal network.

Even though the street is less than 100m in length , there’s plenty of cafes, restaurants and even a couple of bars tucked away in the tiny buildings.

Once you’re done taking advantage of the photo opps, you can visit the King of Medicine Temple and the Water Fairy Temple on the west and east ends of the street respectively.

What to Eat in Tainan || Our Recommendations

As Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan has had a lot of time to develop some seriously delicious food!

Here’s our must-eat treats:

By far the most famous food in Tainan is beef soup (牛肉湯 niú ròu tāng).

It’s a bowl of simple perfection: thinly cut beef slices, onions, cabbage and clear broth slow cooked for about 8 hours.

Michelin Guide recommends Kangle Street Beef Soup .

However, Win Chang Beef Soup (文章牛肉湯) seems to win the popular vote online, with thousands of 5 star reviews on Google!

Coffin Bread

Not as morbid as it sounds, we swear!

Coffin bread (府城棺材板 fǔchéng guāncai bǎn) is a unique and popular dish originating from Tainan.

It is essentially a type of open-faced sandwich with a creative twist.

The dish consists of a thick slice of white bread that has been hollowed out, creating a bread “coffin.”

The hollowed-out bread is then toasted or deep-fried and filled with a variety of savory ingredients, such as creamy seafood chowder, chicken stew, or curry.

Coffin bread is definitely not one to be missed on your trip to Tainan.

The most authentic coffin bread is said to be found at the Chikan Coffin Bread stall in the Kangle Market, which has been making the delicacy since 1942!

Night Markets

Specific dishes aside, Tainan is known for a thriving night market scene.

The ‘Big 5’ night markets are:

• Tainan Garden Night Market
• Tainan Dadong Night Market
• Tainan Wusheng Night Market
• Tainan Xiaobei Night Market

To find out location and opening times each one, as well as plenty of intel on what to try at each one, check out our Tainan Night Market Guide here .

Have you been to Tainan before? Why not drop your recommendations down in the comments below and tell us what you loved. We hope to see you in Tainan very soon 🤩

What to do in Tainan || FAQs

Tainan really offer something for everyone.

History buffs might most enjoy visiting cultural landmarks like Chihkan Tower and Anping Fort , shopaholics will definitely want peruse the unique merchandise at Hayashi Department Store and Shennong Street .

The Instagram influencers among you won’t want to miss out on the picturesque Chi Mei Museum and Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park .

As Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan is teeming with history, with plenty of relics left over from the Qing Dynasty, Dutch rule and Japanese colonial times.

Some of the top sites we’d recommend are Anping Fort , Chihkan Tower and Koxinga Shrine .

Chihkan Tower, originally built by the Dutch, offers insights into various periods of rule. Anping Fort showcases maritime history, and Koxinga Shrine commemorates a national hero.

Foodies are really spoiled for choice in Tainan, with a thriving night market scene you’ll be able to try a huge array of Taiwanese specialties.

Tainan is most famous for its beef soup (牛肉湯 niú ròu tāng) and the best beef soup in town can be found at Win Chang Beef Soup (文章牛肉湯) .

— Tainan Garden Night Market

— Tainan Dadong Night Market

— Tainan Wusheng Night Market

— Tainan Xiaobei Night Market

There’s a few popular options for travelling from Taipei to Tainan, inlcuding:

High-Speed Rail (HSR): The fastest way is to take the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) from Taipei Main Station to Tainan Station. The journey takes around 90 minutes and there are frequent departures.

Train: Regular trains are also available, offering a more economical option. You can take a standard train from Taipei Main Station to Tainan Railway Station. While the journey takes longer than the HSR, it provides an opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the way.

Bus: Several long-distance bus services connect Taipei and Tainan. Buses offer varying levels of comfort and travel time. It’s advisable to choose a reputable bus service for a comfortable journey.

Driving: Renting a car and driving from Taipei to Tainan is an option if you enjoy road trips. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.

Tainan is a city situated in the southern part of Taiwan.

It is located on the southwestern coast of the island, facing the Taiwan Strait.

Absolutely.

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Learn more about our Chinese courses in Tainan here .

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Explore Tainan

Plan your trip to tainan: best of tainan tourism.

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• Wusanto Huching Resort Hotel
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• 有茶事 Things about Traditional Taiwan Tea
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The best tours to explore tainan, let sababoy be your guide enjoy travelling in tainan, pre-departure notes, start planning your tainan tour, how to get to tainan, @tainantravels, travel tainan.

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Tainan travel blog — the fullest tainan travel guide for first-timers.

Tainan is a small city located in southern Taiwan and also the oldest city, is the old capital of Taiwan with a rich and long-standing culture, cool climate, excellent cuisine, suitable for who want to explore the ancient cultural traditions, rituals and Taoism of the island nation. Initially, when the Dutch ruled, Tainan was established as a ruling and trading base. After that, in the 17th century, General Koxinga defeated the Dutch, regained Tainan and turned it into the capital for a long time. There is still a Confucius Temple built in the 17th century, and Tainan people are always proud because they still retain more ancient temples than anywhere in Taiwan. So when visiting Tainan, covering the city is a quiet nostalgic feeling, easy to see ancient and old architecture in everywhere, the mossy street corners, peaceful, vintage, slowly lifestyle, gentle life.

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So, is Tainan worth visiting, what to do in Tainan and how to plan a budget trip to Tainan for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Tainan travel blog (Tainan blog) with the fullest Tainan travel guide (guide to Tainan, Tainan tourist guide, Tainan city guide, Tainan guide) from how to get Tainan, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Tainan to help you maximize your trip as follows!

Tainan blog — When is the best time to visit Tainan?

Tainan weather is relatively warm, the summer is often heavy rain, the best time to visit this city is in fall or spring.

In the Spring (February to April), the temperature is usually around 20 degrees Celsius, with little rain, dry, suitable for visiting tourist destinations such as national parks or museums. And this is also the time of the traditional New Year, and the Spring Festival, so the city scenery is more colors, more beautiful and more fun.

Autumn (September – November) with dry weather and cool climate so it is very convenient to travel, sightseeing. Autumn has beautiful scene, green color gradually change to yellow and red of Maple leaves.

Winter weather is colder, not favorable for traveling. But if you are a snow lover and winter activities, this is not a bad time.

Tainan travel blog — How to get to Tainan?

From Vietnam you can fly directly to Tainan or from other provinces of Taiwan to Tainan by train or by HSR high speed train. Normally in cities, train stations, high-speed trains and main bus stations are close together, so you can buy tickets at the central stations of cities/provinces. (In Taipei will be Taipei Main Station; Taichung station is Taichung station, Kaohsiung will be Zuoying station).

Tainan travel guide — Getting from Tainan Airport to the city

To getting from Tainan Airport to the city center, visitors have two public transportation options: bus and taxi.

Bus: There are two bus routes that visitors can travel from Tainan Airport to the city center: NO.5 Tainan City Bus and R3 Bus (Go through the Tainan Train Station – HSR train station – Tainan Airport). This is a type of city bus so travelers need to determined the area of their hotel located near the stop point to reach and down. Ticket price is around 20 TWD ($0.65)/trip.

Taxi: Taxis are available 24/24 at the airport so you can catch one at anytime to go to the city center. However, picking up the car at night will cost more than 20% more daytime.

Tainan blog — Getting around Tainan

Most of Tainan’s main tourist attractions are located near an area around the city center so you can walk to explore. Visitors who do not want to walk can contact and ask their hotel staff for a bicycle rental service or ask for a nearby bicycle rental. You can rent a bike from T-Bike: Phone: 0800-527527 (Local) / 06-2436668 (Mobile). Email: [email protected] . Website: http://tbike.tainan.gov.tw/Portal/en-US.

Tainan blog — Where to stay in Tainan?

Here are some good hotels in Tainan you can refer to:

Silks Place Tainan

Silks Place Tainan is the perfect place to feel Tainan and its surroundings. Only 58.6 km from Tainan Airport, so this 5-star hotel can be easily accessed from the airport. With the good location, from hotel you can easily to reach the popular attractions of the city. Whether you are a fun person or just want to relax after a busy day, you will feel comfortable when using the hotel facilities such as fitness room, outdoor swimming pool, children’s playground, kids club. Silks Place Tainan is an ideal place for who want to stay and seeking charm, comfort and convenience in Tainan. Room rates from $131. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: No. 1號, Heyi Road, West Central District, Tainan City, Taiwan 700 Phone: +886 6 213 6290

Hotel Tainan

When visiting Tainan, you will feel at home at Hotel Tainan, where excellent quality and thoughtful service. From here, guests can enjoy easy access to all that the lively city has to offer. Guests can take a stroll around the city’s top tourist attractions such as: Tainan HSR station, Focus Square, Si Hua Tang…Rates from $57.83. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: 1 Cheng Gong Road, West Central Dist, Tainan 70050, Taiwan R.O.C., Tainan City, Tainan, Taiwan, 70050 Phone: +886 6 228 9101

Kindness Hotel – Tainan Chihkan Tower

Kindness Hotel Tainan , located in the Tainan City area, is a popular choice for travelers. From the hotel you can quickly and easily reach many local points of interest of Tainan city such as: Confucius Temple is only 400 meter away, National Museum and Chikan Tower are only a 5- minute walk away, 6-minute walking from Fuzhong Underground Station where you only take 12 minutes to Tainan Airport. ‎Price range: $55 – $122. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Address: No. 97, Section 2, Minquan Road, West Central District, Tainan City, Taiwan 700 Phone: +886 6 225 3377

You can also refer to the mid-range, budget hostels, homestays with good ratings and reviews below:

Dynasty Hotel : 3-star hotel with room rates from $31. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No. 46號, Chenggong Road, North District, Tainan City, Taiwan 704 Phone: +886 6 225 8121

FX Hotel Tainan Minsheng Rd : 4-star hotel with room rates from $38. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No. 76, Section 2, Minsheng Road, West Central District, Tainan City, Taiwan 700 Phone: +886 6 511 6977

Fuward Hotel : 4-star hotel with room rates from $45. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No. 28號, Section 2, Zhongyi Road, West Central District, Tainan City, Taiwan 700 Phone: +886 6 225 1000

Tie Dao Hotel : 3-star hotel with room rates from $11. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No.2, Chenggong Rd., North Dist, Tainan City, Tainan, Taiwan, 70443 Phone: +886 6 221 3200

Premier Hotel : 3-star hotel with room rates from $45. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No. 128, Gongyuan Road, North District, Tainan City, Taiwan 704 Phone: +886 6 225 2141

At Tainan Inn : 3-star hotel with room rates from $29. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No.292 Rongyu Street, Tainan 70167, Taiwan Phone: +886 6 290 5388

Edinburgh Motel : A good motel with room rates from $44. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No. 77號, Yonghua 5th Street, Anping District, Tainan City, Taiwan 708 Phone: +886 6 297 0116

Fuqi Hostel – ZhongZheng : A very good hostel with room rates from $14. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No.70, Zhongzheng Rd, Tainan City, Tainan, Taiwan Phone: +886 6 703 4543

Yi Pin Yuan Hotel : A good hotel with room rates from $19. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No.182, Baoan Rd., Tainan City, Taiwan Phone: +886 6 221 2666

Rainbow Island B&B : A good hotel with room rates from $29. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No. 94, Chenggong Road, North District, Tainan City, Taiwan 704 Phone: +886 982 050 400

Good Ground Hotel : 3-star hotel with room rates from $42. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No. 18, Zunwang Road, West Central District, Tainan City, Taiwan 700 Phone: +886 6 222 1105

Leo Ho Hostel : 2-star hostel with room rates from $24. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: Weimin St., West Central Dist.,Tainan Train Station,, Tainan City, Tainan, Taiwan Phone: +886 981 236 957

Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel : A luxury hotel with room rates from $231. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Address: No. 201號, Section 2, Dunhua South Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106 Phone: +886 2 2378 8888

You can find, check rates, availability & booking for Tainan hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com or Airbnb.com.

Tainan blog — Best places to visit and top things to do in Tainan

Anping Old street – Anping Tree House – Anping Fort (#tainan travel blog)

These 3 places are close together, so if you visiting here, you should visit all three places.

Anping Old Street

Visiting Taiwan, you definitely have to visit Tainan’s Anping Old Street, which is an old, narrow, but still airy street, along the street are high brick houses, a bit old. Along the two sides of the street are dense shops but still very orderly. There are many unique items sold in this street such as: Tainan’s typical fruits, famous peanut candy, pig’s blood, Tainan sausage .. or you can find the unique souvenirs and gifts such as cloth dolls, wooden dolls which only sell in this market.

Anping Fort (Fort Zeelandia)

Fort Zeelandia, originally is a fortress was built by the Dutch, dating from the 17th century, so it is a valued historic landmark. Entrance ticket is very cheap only 50 NT, inside the fort is a small museum which exhibits the artifacts and information of the fort and Tainan history. The outside, the traces of the walls was built by red bricks stills remain, look so catch-eyes and vintage. Walking around a minute, you will meet the observation tower, but only to stand at the bottom and looking up. In the fort campus has the statue of General Koxinga, a Chinese talent general in the 17th century, who was regained Tainan from the Dutch.

Anping Tree House

Exactly this place is more like a garden, you can walk under the trees, walk a little more will encounter a small lake. Visitors who self-sufficient travel can spend an hour for strolling in the garden, breathe the fresh air of Tainan and watch the bizarre architecture of the unique house. Originally, Anping Tree House is an old warehouse of a factory, next to this storehouse is a huge banyan tree, the banyan tree grows, grows up, until one day its huge roots swallow up the storehouse. The root branches cling to and tighten the walls, even rising through the roof. From there, they abandon the warehouse and keep that unique feature so that people can come to visit.

Address: No. 50-2, Yanping St, Anping District, Tainan City, 708. How to get there: Take the bus No. 2, 88 or 99 from Tainan Train Station. Ticket price: 50 NT/place of sightseeing.

Confucius Temple

It was built around the 17th century. At that time, the place that built the Confucius Temple was a hill, with the Confucius Temple on the right and the National School on the left. In the East is the Hall of Morality, which is easily understood as a place of the preaching of the masters (like the university lecture hall today), the West is the Hall of the Great, is the worship Confucius and the disciples.

Now the Confucius Temple is preserved and respected. Although the temple is located in the middle of the street, but steps through the red gate (East Dacheng Gate) to enter the temple campus, completely like a world in another, sanctified, solemn but serene, peaceful, people are returning to the nature of each human being: man is innately good; human nature is basically good.

Continued reading…

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Taiwanese Secrets Travel Guide

Tainan City Travel Guide

Welcome to Taiwan’s old capital city!

Tainan is the place to go if you want to experience the classical side of Formosa . It’s a living museum where every alley can show you a slice of history. Established in the 17th century, it was the capital of Taiwan during the Qing Dynasty .

To this day, the city retains ancient architecture, old religious festivals, and temples, stores that were opened a hundred year ago, and locals who practice arts and crafts passed down by ancestors. No doubt it’s referred to as the Kyoto of Taiwan!

Table of Contents

We’re here for the food, of course!

“Why are you here?” is a question I always ask travelers when I meet them on the road. “We’re here to eat, why else” is the typical answer I get from tourists in Tainan. The city is not only considered to be the cradle of traditions of the country – it’s also a highly popular food destination!

Asian and local tourists line up at popular restaurants and night market stalls ANY time of the day. The ratio of places to eat per capita has to be one of the highest in the world. The amount of tea shops, street food venues, stalls, sidewalk-eateries, and food alleys is mind-blowing.

Facts About Tainan City

• Tainan was Taiwan’s capital from 1683 to 1885.
• The city is Taiwan’s fourth largest.
• It has a population of 1.8 million people.
• It has an abundance of historic temples.
• The Taiwanese language is more popular than Mandarin.
• Most tourist attractions such as temples, museums, and historical sites are located in the West Central District 中西區 , west of the train station.

Best Attractions in Tainan – Things to Do

Tainan is packed with touristic sights such as temples, museums, night markets, and even a fort where you can learn about Taiwan and China’s military past. There are enough things to do to keep you busy for at least 2-3 days. Here are some places you’ll want to include on your Tainan travel itinerary:

Confucius Temple 孔廟

Welcome to Taiwan’s oldest Confucian Shrine! Of all the Confucius temples around the island, this one is my favorite. The halls are set in front of a vast park filled with huge banyan trees where people chat, fly kites, paint or just walk around. There’s no better place to be on a sunny day when the temple’s pink walls contrast against a deep blue sky.

Tainan’s Confucius Temple is right in the heart of the busy West Central District. If possible, try to get a room in the vicinity, as most attractions are within walking distance from here.

Great South Gate of Tainan 大南門城

Remain of Tainan’s old defences.   From the Confucius Temple, it’s only a short walk along Nanmen Rd. to get to the Great South Gate. The massive double gate was completed in 1835. Set in yet another pleasant park, the giant structure is a reminder of Tainan’s military past as well as one of the most photogenic attraction in town.

Fahua Temple 法華寺

300-year-old Fahua Temple is also worth a detour. The monk on this picture told me he spent his entire life at the temple. “ I was born to be a monk,”  he said.  “When I was a kid, I used to come here to recite sutras while my friends would stay home to work and play .” Although he doesn’t speak English, he’s always happy to take visitors around the shrine. Fahua is a quiet tourist attraction that doesn’t get as busy as Confucius Temple, so it’s a great spot to soak in the culture without the crowds.

Koxinga’s Shrine

Extremely popular with Chinese tourists from the mainland, this memorial is dedicated to Koxinga – the Ming Dynasty general who kicked the Dutch out of Taiwan in 1662. You can see a statue of the man in the main hall as well as tablets commemorating his army along the side corridors. A small museum by the shrine has traditional Taiwanese puppets on display.

City God Temple

While I was visiting the temple, a devotee explained to me: “ City God is the afterlife judge. He keeps account of people’s moral behavior and decides how one should be rewarded or punished. ”

The large abacus in the main hall is said to help City God calculate people’s good or bad deeds. The torture instruments and graphic images of hell are also quite interesting sights.

National Museum of Taiwanese Literature

Set in an attractive neoclassical building that used to be Tainan’s City Hall, this museum showcases exhibitions that detail the progression of Taiwanese literature since the Japanese occupation. For most, the building’s architecture is the main interest. It was built by the Japanese in 1916. Most displays have English descriptions. It’s just a short walk north of Confucius Temple.

Chihkan Towers

Due to its central location and its proximity to lots of good restaurants, this popular landmark seems to attract more tourists than any other attraction in town. Even if you don’t like crowds, you should still put Chihkan Towers on your travel itinerary.

When you enter the site, take a right to make your way to the pavilions. You’ll see a statue of a helpless Dutch bowing his head in front of a powerful Koxinga.

Climb up the two Fujianese-style pavilions to get good views over the city. The nine tablets lined up on the back of stone turtles at the base of the first pavilion date back as far as 1786. They were sent by the Chinese Emperor of that era.

God of War Temple

You simply can’t miss this striking temple with its pink-colored walls as you walk on Minzu Rd. The original shrine, dedicated to Guan Di, was built in 1690.

After taking this picture, the man in the blue shirt asked me:  “Do you have places like this in America?”  I said:  “I’m not from America. How about you, do you have places like this in China?” He quickly and nervously snapped back:  “This is China!”

Matsu Temple

Established in 1662, this is the  oldest Matsu Temple in Taiwan . And it’s such a lively place. It seems that every time I visit it, there’s a ritual that’s being held where giant Chinese puppets dance, gongs are beaten and joss money is thrown up in the air amidst the sound of exploding firecrackers and traditional Taiwanese music.

Being a coastal city that used to be dependent on fishing it’s understandable that Tainan should have a special liking for Matsu, the Goddess of the Sea. The city has no less than 17 temples dedicated to the deity.

Anping Fort

Also called Fort Zeelandia, this impressive bastion was originally  build by the Dutch in 1653 . All that remains from the original structure are a few crumbling walls that used to make up the foundation. The streets around the fort turn into a lively market on weekends and the entire area enjoys a carnival atmosphere as hundreds of Taiwanese tourists show up to buy snacks and play games.

Matsu Temple in Anping

Yet another temple dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. This one is right by Anping Fort and is always packed with devotees.

Look for the  fortune teller  by the main altar – he’s quite a funny character. Point your camera at him and watch his reaction. Don’t worry, he won’t get angry –  he likes attention!

Taiwanese opera  performances are often held on the parking lot in front of the temple. Careful if you see the performers walking on the stage with bottles. They sometimes throw alcohol in the crowd. It’s supposed to ward off evil spirits.

Eternal Golden Castle

The fortress is set in the biggest and most beautiful  park  I’ve seen in Taiwan. Unsurprisingly, tons of Taiwanese flock here on weekends to stroll around the fortifications.

It used to be an important piece of Taiwan’s defense against the Japanese. Military buffs will enjoy the  cannons  on top of the citadel. Photographers will want to shoot the  front gate  early morning. I highly recommend to walk between this site and Anping Fort.

Tainan Accommodation

I recommend to every traveler to stay in the core of the old district downtown, which is called the West Central District 中西區. This area has got everything to keep you busy for an entire week of exploration, eating, drinking, and shopping.

Lakeshore Hotel

This is where I’ve been staying the past few years, as one of my Pizza Rock restaurants is right next door. Lakeshore Hotel is central, modern, clean, and quite luxurious. The rooms are well designed and practical. The beds and pillows are amazingly comfortable.

The buffet for breakfast is the highlight of a stay here. It’s got absolutely everything you can imagine, bacon and eggs, Asian, steak, pasta, salads, cold cuts, huge variety of cheese and bread… Lakeshore is not cheap, but it offers a super great experience and I highly recommend it!

Tainan Transportation, Getting There and Away

By train:  Tainan’s train station is located in the northeastern part of the city, about 1km away from the Confucius Temple and Chihkan Tower.

The following fares and time travel are for the fast trains (also called Tze-Chiang).

Taipei  – NT750 – 4.5 hours Taichung  – NT380 – 2 hours Kaohsiung  – NT110 – 30 minutes

By Bus:  UBus has a station right next to the train station at #2 Beinan Rd. Buses for Taipei cost NT500 and take between 5 to 6 hours depending on the traffic situation.

Tainan  Airport  is only 5km away from the city center and has regular flights to Taipei and Kinmen. The  High Speed Railway Station  (HSR) is a very frustrating 30 minutes south of the city.

Tainan Restaurants / Places to Eat

One of the most popular areas to find traditional food in Tainan City is around Chihkan Towers. There you’ll find everything from fried rice to dumplings sold at street stalls, as well as other local specialties such as Dan Zai Noodle. If you walk around the city, you’ll pass dozens of Taiwanese, Chinese, and even Japanese restaurants that offer in BBQ, hot pot, quick stir-fries, and even western food like pizza, burgers, and steak.

Bars in Tainan

I don’t even know where to begin. There’s a shitload of bars and drinking holes in this city. If you want to hangout at one of the expat places, then you should check Trip Advisor. If you want to see where the locals drink after work, or on Saturday night for a solid Sunday hangover, check out these places:

Cosby Saloon & Bar Alley

I found this place by pure luck (or bad luck)? I had booked a room at the Premier Hotel, because it was one of the only places to stay available downtown that Saturday night. Cosby Saloon happens to be in an alley next to the hotel. As I went back to my room, after walking around town, around 1am, I could see people completely hammered, by the road, so I decided to walk down the alley to investigate. That’s when I found Cosby Saloon. Walked inside, felt at home right away. Old style wooden bar, rock music, bunch of local dudes chatting and smoking on stools.

On the way to Cosby Bar, you will pass about 5 little dinking holes, in what I have now officially coined as the Bar Alley. I can promise you only one thing: you will never see a single foreigner / expat in any of those places. This is local Tainanese territory, and that’s exactly why you’re wanting to get your ass there for a drink.

Address :  704, Tainan City, North District, Gongyuan Road, 128-20號1F

More Pictures of Taiwan’s Ancient Capital

Tainan Photo Gallery – 50 Travel Pictures:   That’s right… More pictures! There’s simply no better way to get describe this amazing city. Check pictures of temples, landscape, people, parks…

Map of Tainan

Return from  Tainan  to  Taiwanese Secrets Homepage

Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, tainan travel guide: things to do, what to eat and where to stay in tainan.

On my last visit to Taipei , I found myself with a few extra days that I could use to explore places outside of Taipei. Aside from Jiufen and Beitou, I haven’t been anywhere else in Taiwan. So I decided to go to the extreme and visit Tainan, at the southern end of Taiwan!

Tainan is the oldest city in Taiwan, first established during the Dutch colonization era in the 1600s. From then on, it was known as the ancient capital city of Taiwan. It continues to hold the title of the capital city for over 200 years, until the 18th century when the capital was moved to Taichung and then to Taipei , where the capital city currently sits.

• Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

How many days should I spend in Tainan?

When is the best time to visit tainan, how to get to tainan, how to get around in tainan, where to stay in tainan, tainan itinerary example, what to do in tainan.

• What to eat in Tainan

Due to its long history, Tainan is often referred to as Taiwan’s cultural capital. You can see the remnants of Tainan’s history from the time of Dutch colonization to the Japanese era in the 18th century.

In the present day, there are plenty of eating spots, small local shops, and trendy cafes to visit. If you like walking, Tainan is a treat because there are tons of small alleys to explore. Basically, there is something for everyone in Tainan!

Tainan Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

Tainan is safe and easy to travel in, but here are a few pointers that could make your trip even easier:

1. Read my Taipei Travel Tips for First-time Visitors – Many of the travel tips I have for Taipei will apply to Tainan too, such as getting a pre-paid SIM Card that will work in Taiwan, including Tainan, and getting EasyCard , which works on buses in Tainan as well!

2. Buy the High-Speed Rail (HSR) ticket ahead of time – I will elaborate more on taking the HSR in the Getting to Tainan section below, but this is definitely the easiest way to get to Tainan if you are coming from Taipei or other major cities in Taiwan.

3. Buy most of the Tainan attraction tickets via Klook – During my time in Tainan, I bought all of the ticket attractions from Klook. It was super easy because Klook provides direct entry , meaning you don’t need to redeem another ticket – just show the QR code from your voucher!

4. There is a military air base near Tainan – the Tainan airport serves as both military and commercial air base. So occassionally you’ll hear the zooming of military air planes. If noises like this bothers you, you might want to bring an ear plug. Personally it did not bother me at all!

The touristy part of Tainan is actually not a big area. I recommend spending at least 1.5 days in Tainan.

If you’re a fast traveler, one day could even be enough to see most things in Tainan, but it will be very rushed. For those who like to travel slowly, there will be enough things to do in Tainan for 3 days.

Tainan is located in the southern part of Taiwan. The weather here tends to be warmer and more humid than in the northern region.

Like the rest of Taiwan, I would recommend visiting from March to April when the weather is still somewhat cooler and there is not much rain. Starting from mid-May, it gets hot and a little bit rainy in Taiwan. There is also a possibility of typhoons in the region around September or October. November to December might also be a good time to visit when it’s not yet too cold.

I would also recommend visiting Tainan on a weekend if you prefer a more lively atmosphere. There will be more things to do and shops will be open, but it will be more crowded and accommodations could be more expensive. I visited Tainan from Thursday to Friday and was able to visit most of the things on my list without much crowd.

The easiest way to get to Tainan is via the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) from Taipei . But of course, there are a few more ways to get to Tainan. I’ll cover all of them below so you can decide which one is best for you:

1. via the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) from Taipei (BEST WAY!)

The fastest and best way to get to Tainan is no doubt via the HSR trains . These trains are similar to the bullet train in Japan and will take you to Tainan in 1 hour and 45 minutes . The HSR Train departs from Taipei Main Station . There are multiple trains leaving from this station, so make sure to follow the sign that says HSR!

➡️ I highly recommend booking your HSR Ticket from Klook for easy redemption and the cheapest price! PS: Check for Klook promotions! when I was booking my ticket, they had a 1-to-1 promotion.

I found the HSR ticket price to be fairly reasonable. Through Klook, a journey from Taipei to Tainan cost NT$ 1,080 one way . There are multiple HSR trains every hour going from north to south Taiwan and vice versa, making it easy for your to change your plan on the go.

For example, I changed my train ticket to an earlier time in the morning. It took me less time than expected to get ready, so I was already at the station an hour before my train was due to depart. I originally reserved the 9:41 am train, but I was able to get on the 9:01 am train.

Take note changing the timing is still subject to seat availability! I tried to do the same from my Tainan <> Taipei ticket later on, but I was only able to move it to 30 minutes earlier since all the seats on the earlier trains were booked up.

Another bonus point for taking HSR is that there is a free shuttle bus that will take you to Tainan City . I asked the visitor information at Tainan HSR station how I can get to Tainan, and they directed me to take bus H31. Bus H31 dropped me off at Siaosimen , 10 minutes away from my hotel in the West Central district! Super convenient. On the way back, I took Bus H31 to catch the HSR to Taipei as well.

How to redeem your THSR ticket from Klook and reserve a seat

• Purchase the THSR ticket from Klook for the direction you want. PS: Check for Klook promotions! when I was booking my ticket, they had a 1-to-1 promotion.
• Reserve your train timing at the THSR website using the redeem code stated on your Klook voucher. Take note of the deadline to change train timing, in case your plan changes. This is usually 1 hour before your train departure.
• On the day of your reservation, head over to the THSR ticket counter and show your QR Code from the Klook voucher to redeem the physical ticket.
• If you want to make any last-minute changes, you can do so at the ticket counter too, but again, this is subject to seat availability.
• Receive the physical ticket from the THSR ticket counter and use it to board your train!

2. via the Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) from Taipei

Another way to travel by train from Taipei to Tainan is using the TRA train. This journey will take 4.5 hours from Taipei, as it is a regular train and much slower than the TSHR train. However, the main draw for them is that TRA tickets cost about half of TSHR, only about NT$ 540-700 one way. So if you’re on a budget and have time to kill, you might want to consider this option.

Book your TRA ticket straight on the website .

3. Fly into Tainan Airport (TNN)

One option you can consider is flying directly to Taiwan Airport (TNN) if you intend to come straight from your home country and skip Taipei. I would only recommend this way if you can fly directly to TNN. Otherwise, I think the train from Taipei is still the best way.

I mostly got around on foot while I was in Tainan, but occasionally you might need to use other methods. Here are a few ways you can explore Tainan:

By Public Bus – Unlike Taipei , there is no convenient metro to get around in Tainan. You’ll have to rely on the bus if you want to go by public transport. The buses are punctual in Tainan but they don’t come very often.

Despite the frequency, I find that it was still pretty easy to navigate. Like Taipei, most of the bus stops in Tainan will tell you when the bus will come. The schedule on Google Maps is pretty accurate too, and the fare is the same as Taipei – NT$ 15 per bus ride.

By Tourist Bus 88 and 99 – On weekends, there are buses catered for tourists which will stop at most tourist attractions. You can buy the tourist bus ticket here .

By Bicycle – This is a popular way to get around in Tainan. Ask your hotel if they can rent you a bicycle. I personally did not use this as I found it pretty easy to just walk around in Tainan. There is also a bike rental system called YouBike you can potentially use while you’re in Tainan.

By Taxi – The yellow taxi is also available in Tainan, if you prefer that. Taxi fares are pretty reasonable in Taiwan so this is not a bad option at all.

When visiting Tainan, you’ll want to stay in the West Central district . This is where most of the food and attractions are going to be in Tainan, which will make it very convenient for you.

Here are some accommodations you can consider:

The Retro Tai-Pan – I stayed here during my visit to Tainan and I HIGHLY recommend this hotel. The hotel is done up with a retro industrial vibe, but it’s actually newly renovated and clean. The location is great, within walking distance of plenty of eateries and bus stops. The rooms are minimalist, but spacious.

They also served the most amazing hotel breakfast I’ve ever had, which was included with the stay! I don’t usually waste stomach space on hotel breakfast, but this was well worth it.

UIJ Hotel & Hostel – This was another accommodation I considered. Don’t let the name fool you – it’s not a dingy hostel, it’s actually a trendy hotel at the heart of the West Central district of Tainan. You can stay in a private room or a bed in a 6-bed dorm. A friend of mine stayed in the private room and she loved it. The private rooms are fitted with Aesop soaps!

Based on where things are located, I recommend dividing your days like so:

Day 1: West Central District

• Arrive in Tainan from Taipei
• Walk around the west central district during the day
• At night, go to Garden Night Market or check out small bars in Tainan

Day 2: Explore Anping District

• Visit Anping Treehouse, Anping Old Fort, and Anping Old Street
• Sicao Green Tunnel
• Return to Taipei

Without further ado, here are things you can do during your visit to Tainan!

1. Walk around the West Central District

The West Central district in Tainan is one of the most popular and busiest districts in Tainan. There are shops, restaurants, and historic sites to visit. There are also small alleys to get lost and walk around in.

Walking around Tainan is pretty cool. You’d be walking on a sidewalk, and it might suddenly turn into a temple, or a wet market, or an extension of a restaurant. You just never know what you’ll see.

Here are a few places I suggest you can visit in the West Central District of Tainan:

1. Check out Tainan’s historic sites

One of the most popular sites in West Central is the Chihkan Tower . Chihkan Tower is the oldest building in Tainan, built in 1653 during the Dutch colonization era as an administration center. Back then, it was called Fort Provintia.

Inside, there is a small garden and a 2-story Sea God Temple, a Chinese-style building that was added later on to the fort. Wenchang Pavilion was under renovation and was closed when I visited.

➡️ You can buy tickets to Chihkan Tower via Klook for direct entry. Just show the Klook QR code at the entrance!

When you are exploring the city on foot, you’ll notice there are so many temples in Tainan. Apparently, there are 12,000+ temples in Taiwan, and Tainan houses 1,600 of them. So let’s visit a few notable ones.

Just a short walk away from Chihkan Tower is Tainan Grand Mazu Temple . Admission is free, but when visiting the temple you’ll see people praying at the temple, so please be quiet and make sure not to linger too long.

Next, you can visit Tainan Confucius Temple , which is famous for students who are about to take an important exam or trying to gain admission to a competitive school.

2. Shopping at Hayashi Department Store

I originally did not include Hayashi Department Store on my list, because I thought it was just a department store. But I happened to pass by while I was walking around the district and… I am really glad I peeked in!

This department store was the first department store in Tainan, dating back to 1932 during the Japanese occupation. It consists of 6 floors of shops filled with unique local designer goodies. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs or even something nice to bring back for yourself.

Most of the interior has been preserved, including the old elevator which will only fit 5 people at a time. These days, the elevator will only take you from the 1st to the 5th floor and back down. It does not stop on the floors in between. You’ll need to take the stairs all the way up and down to see the different floors of the department store unless you are pregnant or elderly.

On the 5th floor, there’s a restaurant and coffee shop you can relax in. From the 5th floor, you could take the stairs up further to the rooftop. While the view up there isn’t much, there is a small Shinto temple!

3. Visit Blueprint Creative Park

Just like in Taipei , there is a creative park in Tainan too, repurposed from old abandoned building. Blueprint Creative Park is built on a former prison dorm.

At Blueprint Creative Park, you can walk around and check out the small shops they have scattered on the ground. My favorite one is the Taiwan Tile Museum . I was surprised to learn that they had Peranakan tiles in Taiwan too, just like in Singapore .

It’s best to visit the park at night or close to sunset so that you can see the light installations too. At the entrance of the park (the one facing Ximen Road), you can see one of the former prison dorms that have been painted deep cerulean blue and turned into 3D light art installations.

4. Explore the small alleys of Tainan

One of the main draws of the West Central district is that there are so many small little streets to explore and get lost in. This is why I prefer walking when I was here, as opposed to taking the bus or taxi.

A few noteworthy places for such walks are:

Shennong Street

Best visited during sundown because there are lanterns that will be lit up and make the street look pretty. Small shops, cafes, and cocktail bars line up the street.

Snail Alley

A small alley for a quiet afternoon walk. There is a cafe and a bar, but it is also residential. Most of the houses here play into the “snail” theme. You can find many snail ornaments, both obvious and hidden, decorating the alley!

2. Explore Anping District

The history of Anping dates back to the 17th century, during the Dutch colonization of Taiwan. In Anping, you can see the historical remnants of the time when it used to be called Fort Zeelandia.

From Tainan West Central District, you can take Bus 2 all the way to Anping, which will only take 20 minutes.

Here’s what you can see in the Anping District of Tainan:

1. Anping Tree House and Tait&Co Merchant House

You can start your Anping exploration by visiting the merchant house, where you can learn the history of Anping as a harbor that plays a key role in opening Taiwan for international trade. It began as a hub for exporting camphor, then during the Japanese occupation, it was taken over by a Japanese salt company.

On the back of the merchant house is its former warehouse, which is now overgrown by Banyan trees. This is now known as Anping Tree House. You can walk around inside the warehouse. It does not have a roof anymore, and you can admire how nature had completely taken over the warehouse.

➡️ You can buy tickets to Anping Tree House via Klook for direct entry. Just show the Klook QR code at the entrance!

2. Anping Old Fort

Anping Old Fort is about a 5-minute walk from the tree house. Throughout your visit to Anping, you’ll see the name “Fort Zeelandia” often. Well, Fort Zeelandia is the old name for Anping Old Fort when the Dutch occupation in the early 1600s. The fort was built by the Dutch in 1624, then renamed “Anping” when Koxinga took the area back in 1662.

Inside the old fort, you can see remnants of the original wall. What was interesting to me was that the wall was made using three very basic ingredients: oyster shells, syrup, and glutinous rice. Pay attention to parts of the wall – you can still see the “scissor wall lock” that was used to reinforce the wall!

You can also climb up the light house for a good 360 view of Anping. There is a set of stairs and it’s not too hard to climb.

➡️ You can buy tickets to Anping Old Fort via Klook for direct entry. Just show the Klook QR code at the entrance!

3. Anping Old Street

The old street is just a short walk from the old fort. Nowadays, you can find snacks and all kinds of goods here, similar to what you can expect from a night market. But you’d be interested to know that this street is the oldest street in Taiwan!

It’s best to visit the old street after 11 am and before 6pm since vendors only open around that time. You can try the famous Tainan snack here – Coffin Bread.

4. Sicao Green Tunnel

Once you are done with the historical area of Anping, you can make your way to Sicao green tunnel. Here, you can take a boat tour of the mangrove tunnel for peaceful and beautiful natural scenery.

➡️ You can buy admission tickets to Sicao Green Tunnel via Klook . You need to redeem the tickets for entry.

3. Explore Tainan’s popular street food scene

You can’t visit Tainan without appreciating their food! I have a whole section on what to eat in Tainan below, but you should also make time to visit their food street and night market.

Guohua Street

Located near the Tainan station, this street is popular with locals for good and cheap eats.

Garden Night Market

This night market is only open on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. You’ll also want to check their Facebook page or Instagram page to make sure they are indeed open since the weather might also affect their opening.

From the West Central District, you can take Bus 0 to reach Garden Night Market.

4. Visit Museums in Tainan

If you like art and the experience of going to a museum, you’ll love Tainan! There are plenty of museums to visit – here are a few:

Tainan Art Museum

Located right in the middle of the West Central district, this is definitely the most convenient museum for tourists.

➡️ You can buy admission tickets to Tainan Art Museum for direct entry. No need to redeem the ticket when you get there!

Chimei Museum

Chimei Museum is located outside of the city, so it will take some effort to get there. However, it is worth it because the museum ground is big and you can explore an outdoor area aside from the exhibition.

You can take Bus 5 or H31 (the same one we take for taking the HSR). It will take about 30 minutes by bus.

➡️ You can buy admission tickets to Chimei Museum . You need to redeem the tickets for entry.

5. Relax at a cool cafe and hang out spots!

You could say parts of Tainan have been gentrified. Many of the old buildings are now turned into trendy bars at night or coffee houses during the day. If you need a break and fancy a cup of coffee or tea, these places are a great option to hang out in!

Here are some of my favorite cafes in Tainan:

Washida Coffee – Located right in the middle of the West Central district, this coffee shop is located inside the UIJ Hotel Lobby , which also doubles as a bookshop.

Nijo Coffee – Located deep inside the alleys in one of the West Central district alleys, and next to one of the many temples in Tainan, Nijo can be a bit hard to find but it is truly a respite in the busy city. If you want a table, there is a minimum spend of NT$200, but you can also just take your drinks to go.

Mudliu Teahouse – A Hong Kong-style tea house with a retro vibe. They are only open at night and in the later part of the week.

What and where to eat in Tainan

With its long history, it makes sense that Tainan is also known for its culinary delights. There are many dishes I enjoyed during my time in Tainan, and I have made a separate post for it!

All about food in Tainan: Check out my Tainan food guide here

Alright, I hope that paints a picture of what Tainan is like and I hope it helped plan your trip to Tainan! As usual, please feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions or anything else you would like to add to the post.

Till next time 👋🏻

13 Comments

• February 4, 2024

Thank you. Very informative. From now on, I will follow your blogs. Have a nice day.

Hey Haydee, thank you for the kind words! Have fun on your travels 😀

• December 17, 2023

Hi, I will be spending 3 days 2 nights in Tainan. Was thinking to get a private charter to get around, do you think it is really needed? Or public transport is good enough? Thanks!

• October 22, 2023

Hi, is Tainan a friendly place for solo travellers?

hey JP, yes i think so. i went by my self.

• November 8, 2023

Hi Melissa, sorry didn’t have notification of your reply. Currently, I am in Tainan already. 😅 I went to Snail Alley and Shennong Street. Both were ghost towns. Including Tainan Cultural & Creative Park.

• October 19, 2023

Thank you! Will use your tips for our trip in few days there!

• October 17, 2023

Hi, I am going to Tainan via HSR on one day trip and what is your advise on the itinerary, We have 6 adults and 2 children. Do you have any recommendation for children food. This is our first time go to Tainan without tour guide. We want to go Old Street, cafe and local food. Please advise. Thank you.

• September 23, 2023

Hi What a comprehensive write out! Will definitely use yours for my upcoming trip in Oct 23 Thank you!!!

• September 24, 2023

Thanks Sharen. Have fun in Tainan!

• June 18, 2023

Thank you for the sharing. Will be visiting Tainan in early Nov 2023. Your sharing is definitely very useful for us.

• June 10, 2023

Such great information. So grateful to stumble upon this while i’m planning for my trip in Oct! Thank you

Thanks Dave! Have fun in Tainan

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Travel Blog, Itineraries & Guides, Hotel Reviews

The Perfect Itinerary for Kaohsiung and Tainan (2024 Update)

March 11, 2024 by Bino 12 Comments

Kaoshiung and Tainan, the main cities in the southern region of Taiwan, have been getting quite a bit of attention lately thanks to government efforts to promote the region to overseas tourists. The historic heart of the island has seen plenty of new hotels as well as redevelopment of existing tourist infrastructure in recent years.

Being slightly more than a 3-hour high speed train ride from Taipei, it makes sense to spend a couple of days in the southern cities. This is after all where Taiwan’s capital used to be. Those who make the effort to come here are ultimately rewarded with a different side to Taiwanese culture. People tend to speak Minnan (Hokkien) here compared to Mandarin and the tropical climate also means plenty of sunshine as compared to the usually dreary weather up north. If you are thinking of visiting Kaohsiung and Tainan and have no idea where to go, this suggested itinerary can hopefully help you.

Tip: If you are heading to Kaohsiung / Tainan by Taiwan’s high speed rail, check out this current promotion where tickets are cheaper for Non-Taiwanese passengers. Limited time only. Book here

If you are also heading up north, check out this Taipei itinerary

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Kaohsiung

dome of light at formosa boulevard station

The most common entry points to Kaohsiung are either via the Kaohsiung International Airport which is only 15 minutes from town or the Zuo Ying High Speed Rail Station. If you are arriving by the latter, you may be pleased to note that one of Kaohsiung’s top attractions – the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas – are situated close by. Chances are you’ll have your luggage in tow so it may be wise to check-in to your hotel first (check out my recommended lodging below).

Tip: If you are arriving via Kaohsiung International Airport, you may wish to purchase your 4G sim card beforehand in order to avoid potential queues and just collect once you arrive at the airport. Prices are also cheaper if you buy online. Check prices here .

Cijin / Qijin

After obtaining your bearings, start your day at Cijin (Qijin) District. Touted as one of the city’s tourism hotspots, the elongated island by Kaohsiung harbour is great for outdoor pursuits such as cycling. While here, you can check out the shops by the beach or head to Chihou Fort and Chihou Lighthouse. Both were constructed by the British in the 19th century and marked the beginnings of the city as a port. Entrance is free for both attractions.

Former British Consulate at Takow

Afterwards, head back to the mainland and make a short stop at the Former British Consulate at Takow (daily except Wed, 10AM to 7PM; opens at 9AM on Sat and Sun). It’s perched on top of a hill and is one of the oldest colonial mansions in Taiwan. Inside, visitors can find a museum as well as a cafe. The view over the city and the harbor is also fantastic.

Lunch at Duck Zhen

delicious duck at Duck Zhen – be prepared to queue!

Take an early lunch at Duck Zhen (鴨肉珍) at 258 Wufu 4th Road in Yanzheng District which is known for its excellent duck rice. What makes the dish special is the sauce so make sure to order the duck rice which comes soaked in sauce rather than have the duck separately. Do note that the restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Pier 2 Art Center

After grabbing a bite, it’s just the right time to make the short stroll to Pier 2 Art Center (daily, 10AM to 6PM; until 8PM from Fri to Sun). The shops will start opening by this time. Taiwan has plenty of cultural and creative zones around the major cities and this is Kaohsiung’s answer to that. Inside, you’ll find plenty of small shops selling knick-knacks, the occasional art gallery as well as plenty of outdoor art works. If you are looking for a spot from where to take nice selfies, this place offers plenty of possibilities. Live Warehouse , a live music venue, provides a reason to return to Pier 2 Art Center at night. You can check their website for schedules of concerts and other live events here .

Be Dazzled at Formosa Boulevard MRT

Take the MRT and stop at the Formosa Boulevard Station to see the Dome of Light installation. This particular station frequently makes it to various lists of the most beautiful subway stations in the world. The stained glass fixture is counted as among the largest in the world. The dome comes in 4 sections representing the various elements: water, fire, earth and light.

Dragon and Tiger Pagodas 

dragon and tiger pagodas in kaohsiung

Afterwards, head out to the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas (daily, 8AM to 6PM) in the city outskirts. Kaohsiung’s most recognizable attraction is best visited in the afternoon just when the sun is shining on the frontage.

To get here from Formosa Boulevard MRT Station, ride 4 stops along the red line and alight at Kaohsiung Arena Station. From there, take shuttle bus #301 which will drop you off right by the lotus pond where the pagodas are. 

Day 2 – Kaohsiung to Tainan

Fo guang shan monastery.

fo guang shan monastery in kaohsiung

Start the morning with an optional excursion to the gigantic Fo Guang Shang Monastery in the outskirts of Kaohsiung. There is no shortage of temples in Taiwan but to be frank, this is one of the grandest modern temples I have ever seen. The most impressive portion of the temple is the grand pathway with pagodas on either side that leads to a giant Buddha statue. The reason why I call this an optional trip is because unless you have your own car or book a private tour , it may take you a bit of time to get there and back. The fastest way via public transport still takes 1.5 hours each way. The #8501 bus which departs from the Zuoying THSR station gets you there. Alternatively, it’s 40 minutes away by car from Kaohsiung’s city center. If you have your own car, it would make sense to head to Tainan after visiting Fo Guang Shan due to its location in the northern outskirts of Kaohsiung.

Should you decide not to do the trip to Fo Guang Shan, your morning should be spent traveling to Tainan after having your fill of Kaohsiung. You can take the high speed train to get to Tainan from Kaohsiung . You can buy discounted tickets HERE . Taiwan’s 4th largest city and former capital, Tainan lies immediately north of Kaohsiung and because or urbanization, the two cities are almost contiguous to each other. Tainan is Taiwan’s cultural heart with plenty of age-old forts, temples, museums, historic alleys as well as good eats. As such, I recommend spending around 1.5 to 2 days in this city to fully explore what it has to offer.

Chihkan Tower

chihkan tower

The main station in the city, Tainan Station, is conveniently located in the heart of town and is around 15 minutes walk to the tourist attractions. It makes sense to stay around the area. I stayed at the Shangri-la’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Tainan which offers a free shuttle bus to the sights nearby. You can start off at the Chihkan Tower (also known as Fort Provintia, Admission: 70 TWD). The site originates as a Dutch fort built in 1653. It was later destroyed by an earthquake and had to be rebuilt. This explains the Chinese facade. Inside, you’ll find a museum as well as a viewing deck which gives you an overview of the surrounding gardens.

Koxinga Shrine

koxinga shrine

Afterwards, head out to the Confucius Temple which is a short cab ride or a 13 minute walk away from Chihkan Tower. The center of learning dates back to the 17th century. Travelers around East and Southeast Asia can note similarities in places like Hanoi with its Temple of Literature. From here, it’s also a short walk to the Koxinga Shrine a few blocks away. It’s a small family shrine erected to commemorate the ancestors of a noble man in the 17th century. It offers a good glimpse at the architecture of the time.

Hayashi Department Store to Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park

It might be searing hot by this time in the afternoon, a perfect excuse to head over to the Hayashi Department Store . Much more than a shopping center, this commercial establishment dates back from the colonial Japanese era and has a distinct old world charm. From the tiled chessboard floors to a perceptible art deco interiors, this department store today caters to well-heeled travelers and you can find plenty of knick knacks inside as well as a restaurant on the topmost floor.

If you haven’t had enough of Taiwan’s “art districts,” you can end your day at Blueprint Cultural and Creative Park – Tainan’s very own. It’s a shopping hub of quaint indie stores, art galleries as well as plenty of street art. It’s worth a stroll even for just an hour and is at its liveliest at night.

Tainan’s Night Markets & Other Nightlife Options

End the day at one of Tainan’s lively night markets. The Garden Night Market is the biggest and is open on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays while Dadong Night Market is open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays.

Those looking for nightlife options will be pleased to note that one of the local watering holes, TCRC (located near the Matsu Temple) frequently makes it to the list of Asia’s top bars. It’s a bit difficult to get a seat from 10pm onwards as was my experience so do come earlier or at least leave your name and number (waiting time can be 2+ hours).

Day 3 – Tainan

Anping old fort and tree house.

anping fort

Spend the day exploring Tainan’s equally historic Anping District. While here, the Anping Old Fort is a must-see. It’s a Dutch fortress that has been turned into a museum. It also boasts of nice views of the city especially on clear days. Admission is TWD 70 (you can buy discounted tickets here ). The dilapidated Anping Tree House nearby has become somewhat of an attraction due to social media. The site is filled with the overgrowth coming from the banyan tree and has plenty of “instagrammable” spots.

If you are having lunch in the area, I would recommend trying 周氏蝦捲 (#125 Anping Road) for its battered shrimp dish – akin to a Taiwanese style tempura.

Sicao Green Tunnel

sicao green tunnel

One of the more unexpected activities in Tainan is the mangrove swamp tour which can be done on a boat. One ride on the Sicao Green Tunnel costs around TWD 200 per person. You’ll be on a raft along with approximately 14 other people with the ride lasting 30 minutes. Although the river is quite short, it’s highly scenic and in certain segments, you’ll see the mangroves from both sides joining together to form an arch and create a natural shelter from the sunlight. Do note that the location is a bit out of town so you’ll need your own transport to get here.

Chimei Museum

chimei museum in the outskirts of tainan

Another optional excursion you can do is visit the grandoise Chimei Museum (hours: 9:30AM to 5:30PM daily except Wednesdays) located in the city outskirts. Even if you have no interest in art exhibits, the exteriors are pretty impressive and is not dissimilar to the royal palaces in Europe with a large fountain and a bridge flanked by statues on both sides lining the entrance to the museum.

To get to Chimei Museum from downtown Tainan, take the train from Tainan Station and alight at Bao’an Station. From Bao’an Station, the museum is a 10-minute walk away.

Spend your last evening in Tainan strolling through atmospheric Shennong Street . Here, you’ll find quirky establishments such as a namesake bar where there are no standard operating hours, a cafe filled with dolls and vintage sofas brushing elbows with trendy restaurants. Add in the neighborhood shrine and temple and you’ve got yourself a perfect hangout for Taiwan’s hipsters.

How to Get From Kaohsiung Airport to Kaohsiung City Center and Tainan

From Kaohsiung Airport to Kaohsiung City Center – The Kaohsiung Airport MRT Station connects you to downtown via the red line. Alternatively, cab rides to town cost about TWD 350 and take 10 to 15 minutes or you can book a private car transfer .

From Kaohsiung Airport to Tainan – Allow a 45 minute to 1 hour ride. You can either hail a taxi when you arrive or book pre-arranged airport transfers .

Where to Stay in Kaohsiung and Tainan

In Tainan, I stayed in Shangri-la’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Tainan for its free shuttle bus to several tourist attractions and location close to Tainan Station. For families, this hotel offers family rooms that can easily fit 4 people. This is also among the most affordable Shangri-la properties in the world.

In Kaohsiung, I stayed in the ultra-chic Silks Club Kaohsiung . I particularly loved its Japanese sensibilities and its designer artwork in the rooms and throughout the public areas. You can check out my full review here . For a more affordable option, you can also check out FX Inn Kaohsiung – Zhonghua Road which is very close to the night market and MRT station.

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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February 8, 2018 at 3:18 pm

Awesome article!!!

As a Tainan citizen, I would like to recommend to have a walk along Guohua St and Zhengxing Street to grab some local delicacies. Better go there and share food with friends , you definitely want to try as more as you can.

Besides Tainan city center, Guanziling (關子嶺) is another must go tourist attraction. It is located in north Tainan and is famous for mud spring. The area is well developed for tourists with many hot spring hotels and restaurants. ( I recommend chicken dishes!)

Thank you for writing this article! It is a perfect travel guild for foreigners.

July 9, 2019 at 9:37 pm

I am planning to visit Taipei been there couple of times but haven’t gone back for like 9 years. I am only available in August to visit Taipei and wish to take the high speed train from Taipei to Kaoshiung. But understand it is typhoon in Taiwan so is it still good to go? Thanks.

July 10, 2019 at 11:14 am

August is a hit or miss. Yes there are typhoons but not all the time. Also, ironically, August is actually the month with the highest number of sunshine hours in the year for Taipei.

July 12, 2018 at 12:37 pm

hi Loved raeding your Blog.Quick question can we stay in Tainan & do both Tainan & Khaoshiung.2d1N?Thnks

July 16, 2018 at 1:09 pm

It is certainly possible but too rushed. Do you have a private car?

August 6, 2018 at 3:46 pm

Very informative blog. Will be of great help in planning my trip to Kaoshiung & Tainan. Thanks!

August 22, 2018 at 5:32 pm

Your blog is very informative. My friends and i would like to travel to Kaoshiung in end oct, is 6 day 5 nights to long to stay? Is there any other location where we can travel near Kaoshiung? If yes, please give some recommendation. Thanks

August 22, 2018 at 6:11 pm

Thanks for reading! With 5 nights you can do Kaohsiung, Tainan and maybe even Kenting.

September 3, 2018 at 11:36 pm

Planning to go kaoshiung on 26-30 sep.any place to recomend?

December 15, 2018 at 5:40 pm

Hi, I’m flying to Kaohsiong from 27/12 till 1/1. Please advise how many places at each place and noted u reconmended for 6D5N can choose to go kaohsiong, Tainan and kending? Would greatly appreciate if you could advice us on how many nights at each places so that it’s not too hectic nor rush. Thanks in advance!

December 15, 2018 at 7:18 pm

Hello! You can look at doing the following:

2 nights – Kaohsiung 2 nights – Tainan 1 night – Kenting

April 10, 2019 at 2:59 am

Your article is very informative. We plan to go to Taiwan in the summer and need your help. Do you think the below itinerary is good? – spend 2 nights at Fo Guang San day 3 – Dragon & Tiger pagoda, Dome of Light, Lotus pond, “Love” art installation. Ruifeng night market day 4 – Pier-2 Art center, Cijin Island. Luihe night market day 5 – Fishermans’ Wharf day 6 – train to Taipei

can you please suggest a place to stay. We want to use AirBnB but not sure of the area/district that is convenient for the above activities. Also, what is the best mode of transportation from Kaoshiung to Taipei.

thanks much in advance 7/6 – Train to Taipei

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Chefs and Bartenders Are Injecting New Life Into Taiwan’s Oldest City

Grilled beef tongue and black-sesame espresso martinis await in Tainan.

By Chris Schalkx

Welcome to T Wanderlust, a travel newsletter from the editors of T Magazine. Starting next week, we’ll be on winter break. Sign up here to find us in your inbox every other Friday once we return , along with our T List newsletter each Wednesday. And you can always reach us at [email protected] .

Located on Taiwan’s southwestern coast, Tainan, the island’s oldest city and former capital, has a long history of cultural incursion, much of which can be traced through its existing architecture. Dutch traders started building forts here in the early 1600s, and Ming and Qing loyalists seized control about half a century later. From 1895 to 1945, while the island was under Japanese rule, city planners upgraded Tainan’s municipal grid with new roads, European-style shop houses and an imposing government hall with a mansard roof.

Today, relics of the past can be found all over town, sharing space with the street food vendors and restaurants that have made Tainan the culinary center of Taiwan. A ruined wall of the 17th-century Dutch Zeelandia fortress lies on the grounds of the restored Anping Old Fort, a site that, like the Qing-era Confucius Temple, draws weekenders from Taipei — a roughly two-hour bullet-train ride north. Nearby, department stores and museums have taken over some of the Art Deco buildings the Japanese left behind, and day-trippers crowd around the decades-old market kitchens, queuing up for shrimp-topped danzai noodles or milkfish ball soup.

Over the past several years, visitors have found even more reasons to explore the city. In the mazelike lanes, a fresh wave of creatives have transformed a number of Tainan’s neglected structures into craft studios and boutiques (such as Chin Chin Pottery and Mu Er, which specializes in ceramics, woodwork and jewelry) and celebrated cocktail bars, including Moonrock and the whiskey-centric TCRC.

“During the pandemic, lots of people moved here to escape the crowds and high prices of Taipei,” says the Tainan-born barista Noel Chang, who turned a former lawyers’ office into Irresponsible, a cafe serving specialty coffees and Indian-inspired curries. “Old, young, retirees — even Hong Kongers escaping the political turmoil back home. They come here for life at a slower pace.”

U.I.J. Hotel & Hostel

Given the city’s many well-designed cafes and ateliers, it’s surprising that Tainan’s hotel scene skews more toward banal business stays than boutique inns. U.I.J. Hotel & Hostel, which opened downtown in 2018, is a notable outlier. Its 87 rooms feature vintage furnishings, exposed brick walls and headboards made with steel piping, while the subway-tile bathrooms are partitioned by embossed glass walls — a traditional art form in Taiwan. (An additional 92 capsule-like hostel beds are also bookable.) Downstairs, the terrazzo-floored lobby doubles as a cafe and concept store where guests sip flat whites and browse the selection of coffee table books, Aesop skin-care products and limited-edition sneakers by the Taipei-based design studio Chenjingkai Office. uij.com.tw .

The angular concrete facade of Mao House is an anomaly among the temple roofs and low-slung brick dwellings of Yuguang Island, a forested isle connected by bridge to Tainan’s western Anping district. Designed by the renowned local architect Mao Shen Chiang in 2008 and opened in 2012, this five-room B&B melds Nordic influences such as Wishbone chairs by Hans J. Wegner with Chinese calligraphy and pottery, and is partly encircled by shallow pools that make it look as if the building were floating on water. The eccentric floor plan gives every room a unique footprint (some feature skylights, others a mezzanine for tea ceremonies), but they’re unified by their slanted raw-concrete walls and blond wood furnishings. Equally inviting is the glass-walled communal dining room, across the courtyard from the hotel’s main building, where guests gather for breakfasts of Taiwanese rice porridge and beef soup or for tea in the late afternoon. maowu.tw .

EAT and Drink HERE

For the husband-and-wife duo Chien Meng Yin and Chu Hsin Yi, stumbling upon a long-abandoned rubber workshop in downtown Tainan in 2017 was the final nudge they needed to pack up their belongings in their native Taipei and start afresh in Tainan. In collaboration with the local design studio Skillability, the couple revamped the narrow building into a 10-seat restaurant where, from behind a long counter, chefs prepare sashimi, fried chicken and donburi bowls with vinegary rice steamed over binchotan charcoal from Wakayama, Japan. The dishes come topped with everything from Hokkaido sea urchin to seared halibut from Aomori, Japan, and are best paired with a chilled mug of Okinawan Orion beer. instagram.com/zyuutsubo

A rule of thumb for eating in Tainan: The longer the line in front of a restaurant, the better the food. That is certainly the case for Jai Mi Ba, a utilitarian noodle shop in the West Central district, where crowds start gathering well before it opens for its lunch and dinner services. The menu, presented as a checklist on a clipboard, draws on the chef-owner Kedy Chou’s culinary experiences around the world (including stints at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Paris and Taipei), fusing Taiwanese mainstays such as beef noodle soup and shellfish with tapas and izakaya influences. The result: noodles with hand-shredded chicken and roasted beef tongue with truffle sauce. facebook.com/JaiMiBa .

Day drinking is encouraged at Swallow, a specialty coffee shop and cocktail bar where bartenders mix boozy drinks from nine in the morning onward. Opened last February by a pair of Taoyuan-born bartenders who returned to Taiwan after spending several years in the acclaimed Singaporean bars Jigger & Pony and Live Twice, Swallow now occupies an almost century-old shop house along a narrow lane in Zongye, one of the city’s oldest districts. In daylight hours, the drink list features coffee from Rufous Roasters in Taipei and four specialty cocktails, including espresso martinis sweetened with black sesame syrup; after 6 p.m., the drinks turn more experimental, with mix-ins such as kombu distillate, seaweed-infused ruby port and buckwheat tea. instagram.com/swallowtainan .

Tainan Art Museum

Tainan Art Museum is spread over two buildings in the city center. The first is the 1930s Art Deco-styled former headquarters of the Tainan Police Department; the second, which houses 16 galleries, is a striking piece of architecture by the Pritzker Prize-winning Japanese architect Shigeru Ban. Opened in 2019, the museum displays works by early 20th-century Taiwanese painters such as Chen Chengbo and Guo Baichuan, as well as rotating exhibitions dedicated to everything from local religious art to Pan-Asian interpretations of the afterlife. Even if you don’t have an entry ticket, the museum is worth visiting for its sweeping views of downtown Tainan from the jumble of platforms wrapped around it. tnam.museum .

Hayashi Department Store

Tainan’s first department store caused a sensation when it opened in 1932, with locals lining up just to experience the novel thrill of riding its elevator. The Japanese-owned Art Deco building was a high-society hot spot during the 1930s, then badly damaged by U.S. air raids during World War II. (There’s still a hole visible in one of its walls.) When colonial rule ended and the owner returned to Japan, a salt factory moved in and the building eventually lost its luster. After a yearslong renovation, the municipal government relaunched the five-story space as a cultural hub and showcase for local brands and designers. Today, it is one of the best places to pick up Taiwanese souvenirs such as handmade bamboo fans, patterned socks from the Taipei-based knitwear brand +10・10more or shrimp chips, salted egg yolk nougat biscuits and chile crisps wrapped in retro-inspired packaging. hayashi.com.tw .

What to bring home, as suggested by locals we like

Jewelry Box From Islet

“Tainan’s traditional glass shops have closed down one after another, and many beautiful antique glasses have been discontinued,” says Cloudia Wu, the curator of Moriyama Market , an annual pop-up carnival and craft fair that takes place each fall on the grounds of Tainan Art Museum. “Very few artisans have passed on this craft, which is why I cherish these upcycled glass jewelry boxes from Islet Studio; they’re infusing these antique objects with new ideas and values.” From around $82; instagram.com/islet_studio .

Tea From Zhen Fa

“Zhen Fa is Tainan’s oldest tea shop and has been selling loose-leaf teas here since 1860,” says Yi-Che Liao, the founder of the Tainan cocktail bar Moonrock . “The original shop on Minquan Road still sells its oolong and Tieguanyin teas from the antique tins lining the shelves and wraps them with traditional handmade paper. I see the beauty of it because it carries the soul and spirit of Tainan from the past century.” From around $11 for 150 grams (5.3 ounces); instagram.com/zhenfa.teashop .

Correction: A picture caption in our Jan. 13 newsletter referred imprecisely to the Eilean Donan Castle. It was rebuilt in the 20th century atop 13th-century ruins; the current structure was not built in the 13th century.

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You’ll almost certainly receive looks of jealousy from any Taiwanese person if you mention you’re going to Tainan (台南), and it’s not hard to see why. Traditional culture continues to thrive here, in the oldest city in Taiwan. The name 'Taiwan' was once used to refer to Dayuan (大員), the former name of Anping where the Dutch fort is located. Inside temples, bwah bwey (moon blocks, 搏杯) are cast to determine the best course of action, as it was done hundreds of years ago. Outside, young Tainanese show off their art and make coffee in former canalside houses. Tainanese are fastidious about their food, and a number of dishes are exclusive to the region (but renowned all over the island).

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Grand Mazu Temple

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

City God Temple

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

Thousand Fields Seed Museum

This horticultural Eden is a home with a fantastical garden overrun with plants, and seeds, seeds, seeds – some 500 species, most endemic to southern…

National Museum of Taiwan Literature

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

Shennong Street

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

Ciji Temple Museum

In focus here is Koji pottery that is used to embellish roof ridges and walls by sculptor Ye Wang (1826–87). The first such artist to be born in Taiwan …

Taijiang National Park

Taiwan's eighth national park, Taijiang covers a patchwork of coastal lands north of Anping Harbour. The 50 sq km of land and 340 sq km of sea include…

Confucius Temple

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

Latest stories from Tainan

Jun 5, 2018 • 6 min read

Tropical southern Taiwan is a land of turquoise waters and rocky coasts, night markets and beach bars, succulent seafood and fresh produce. One of…

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

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

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

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

Tainan is the original capital of Taiwan and one of the country’s most culturally rewarding destinations. Nicknamed “Phoenix City” after its shape and its phoenix trees, Tainan is famous for its historic sights and considered the food capital of Taiwan .

Some of the top things to do in Tainan city center including touring the city’s historic temples and artsy lanes and districts. A hop over to Anping District , with its forts and famous treehouse, is also a must, while Tainan’s night markets are mostly found outside the city center, too.

Further afield (keeping in mind that ever since 2010, “Tainan City” now encompasses all of what used to be “Tainan County”), there are worthwhile Tainan day trips to impressive salt fields, mud hot springs, and the fear-inducing Yanshui fireworks festival.

Below I’ll cover the top attractions in Tainan City Center (West Central District), North and South District, Anping, Annan, and other places to visit around Tainan, based on multiple visits I’ve made over my past decade-plus of living in Taiwan , including most recently in mid-2022. For more general info about visiting, see my guide to Tainan .

You can find lots of discounts for Tainan activities and attractions on Klook, such as this Tainan historical sights pass . If you sign up with my referral link first, you’ll get NTD100 off your first booking!

Table of Contents

Getting to Tainan

From Taipei, the regular (TRA) train takes 3-4 hours, and seats can be reserved 2 weeks in advance. The TRA station is conveniently located in the Tainan city center, walking distance from the main sights.

By taking the High Speed Rail to Tainan, you can get there in 1.5-2 hours, but it will cost around twice as much. You can order discounted HSR tickets to Tainan and read how to reserve seats with them here , up to 28 days in advance. It’s also important to note that the Tainan HSR station is well out of the city center, to the southeast.

Upon arrival at the HSR station, simply hop onto the regular train at Shalun Station (it’s connected by a walkway to the HSR station – it takes less than 5 minutes to transfer). The local train from Shalun to Tainan TRA station takes 22 minutes; almost the same as a taxi, but a fraction of the price. You can swipe an EasyCard to board the local train, and there are regular departures. You can also go into the city by private transfer or by taxi.

In Tainan, you can rent a scooter or Gogoro for exploring the sights; it’s also possible to visit most places on foot, but the sights are quite spread out, so the occasional bus and/or taxi ride will make your explorations more feasible.

Where to Stay in Tainan

There are loads of hotels and hostels to choose from in Tainan. Many of the hostels and budget hotels are in atmospheric old buildings.

When I last visited, I stayed in the low-budget hotel Wabisabi (see on Booking / Agoda ). My miniature room was in the Japanese worker’s dormitory style, like staying in a capsule hotel but facing a small courtyard. It was definitely an experience, but perhaps not for everyone. It was conveniently located near Shennong Street, Yongle Market, and Matsu Grand Temple.

For a comfortable guesthouses conveniently located near Tainan Train Station, try Huzi Room (see on Booking / Agoda ). For visitors with kids, Hotel Cozzi (see on Booking / Agoda ) is highly recommended.

If you decide to spend a night in Anping like I did (see the Anping section of this article), I highly recommend Anping Inn Here (see on Booking / Agoda ). It’s brand new, close to the Old Street, and my room came with a large bean bag chair and free drinks. The owner was super friendly and even let me borrow her scooter!

Central Tainan Attractions

Tainan City’s West Central District (中西區) can be considered the city center of modern-day Tainan. All the Tainan sights below are within walking distance of the Tainan Train Station (the TRA, or regular train station, not the HSR, or Tainan High Speed Rail station, which is a ways south of the city center).

It would be too much to try to visit all of the below Tainan attractions in a single day, but if you want to try, I’ve listed them roughly in a sort of zig-zag order across the city center that I actually followed myself on one wild day of touring Tainan, starting from the Tainan Train Station. I would suggest picking and choosing, especially when the weather’s hot!

This list starts out with lots of temples; but scroll on for a variety of other things to do!

Taiwanfu City God Temple

A 10-minute walk southwest of Tainan Train Station, the small Taiwanfu City God Temple (臺灣府城隍廟) features a giant abacus used for calculating people’s good and bad deeds. You can spot it above the entranceway when you first step inside the temple (see right side of the photo above).

“Taiwanfu” refers to the Prefecture of Taiwan during the Qing Dynasty, and this temple is dedicated to the god who protected that “city”. It is the oldest of several City God temples in Taiwan, including one on Dihua Street in Taipei . 

You can read more about this and other local temples in my guide to the most important Buddhist and Taoist temples in Tainan .

See my similar guides to the top attractions in Taipei and attractions in Kaohsiung .

Dongyue Temple

Five minutes further south on foot, the Dongyue (東嶽殿) or “Hell Temple” is a small but colorful temple where you can spot demon statues, and people go there to communicate with the dead through spirit mediums. There’s a good chance you could even witness such a ceremony there; I did when I visited!

Yanping Junwang Temple (Koxinga Shrine) and Koxinga Museum

These two structures in the same park are dedicated to Koxinga ( Zheng Cheng Gong in Mandarin or Kok-sìng-iâ in Taiwanese language ), one of the most important figures in Tainan’s (and Taiwan’s) history. Koxinga was son to a Chinese pirate and Japanese woman. He was responsible for expelling the Dutch from Taiwan and establishing the Kingdom of Tungning, the first Han state in Taiwan. The temple was constructed by Koxinga’s son, Zheng Jing, to honor his father.

This beautiful Yanping Junwang Temple (延平郡王祠), also called Koxinga Shrine (but not to be confused with the Koxinga Ancestral Shrine, or 鄭成功祖廟, near Hayashi Department Store) sits in a calm park that also has a large statue of Koxinga riding a horse and a Shinto stone gate, right in front of the temple. The temple contains cultural artifacts and lots of info covering the history of the shrine and Tainan.

The large Koxinga Museum (鄭成功文物館) next to the temple is currently undergoing major renovations and was closed when I last visited in mid-2022.

Lady Linshui’s Temple

Just across the street from the park, Lady Linshui’s Temple (臨水夫人媽廟) is famous for its many depictions of women. Lady Linshui was a Taoist priest in Fuzhou, China who is said to have brought rains during a flood, but lost her baby as a result.

Women visit Lady Linshui’s temple to pray for a successful pregnancy, or they bring babies who cry too much there. Make sure to visit the second floor at the back, which features especially stunning paintings, such as in the above photo.

Wufei / Temple of the Five Concubines

It’s a bit of a detour to the south, but if you make it, you’ll be rewarded with a visit to this small temple, called Wufei Temple (五妃廟), in a serene park.

The temple honors the five concubines of the Ming Prince Zhu Shugui (朱術桂), who committed suicide along with the prince himself when the Qing Dynasty took over in 1683. The concubines killed themselves in the prince’s palace, which now houses the Tainan Grand Matsu Temple (see below). Wufei used to have beautiful cracked paintings of the concubines (see my picture above, taken several years ago), but unfortunately they are now replaced with ugly printouts, which hopefully they will eventually replace with new paintings.

Tainan Confucius Temple

The Tainan Confucius Temple (臺南孔廟) is the oldest of several Confucius temples across Taiwan (read about them in my guides to temples in Taipei and things to do in Taichung ) and is arguably Tainan’s most famous attraction. The temple was constructed by Zheng Jing and is considered the first educational institution in Taiwan. Like other Confucius temples, it is known for its simplicity of design, contrary to the busy designs of most Taiwanese temples.

You can enter the Confucius Temple from the gate on the east side, opposite Kongmiao Shopping District (see below). Entrance to the grounds is free, but you’ll need to pay NT40 (students/seniors 30) to enter the Main Hall. West of the temple, via another gate, is the Japanese-built Tainan Wude Hall (原臺南武德殿), or Old Tainan Martial Arts Hall (台南武德殿), which isn’t usually open to the public, but looks cool when lit up at night.

Kongmiao Shopping District

Named after the Confucius Temple, Kongmiao Shopping District (孔廟商圈) is an atmospheric street lined with cafés and craft/souvenir shops leading east from the entrance to Tainan Confucius Temple. It’s best to visit in the afternoon or early evening when the shops are actually open. 

Tainan Art Museum

The popular Tainan Art Museum has two locations not far apart. Building 1 (臺南市美術館1) is housed in an old art deco police station and is across the street from the northeastern corner of the Tainan Confucius Temple. Building 2 (臺南市美術館2館) is a large, contemporary museum in a striking white building (see image above), a short walk west of Tainan Confucius Temple and Wude Hall.

You can buy discounted Tainan Art Museum tickets online here .

Hayashi Department Store

The evocative Hayashi Department Store(台南林百貨) is a Japanese-built art deco department store dating to 1932. Wealthy people would have gone shopping there during Japanese colonial period in Tainan.

The once abandoned department store has been totally fixed up and is a department store once again, with five floors of artisanal goods, teas, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Check out the 4th floor for some relics of the original building and displays covering the building’s history. The rooftop houses a café and the ruins of a Japanese Torii shrine overlooking the city. There’s even some damage from WII.

Tiantan Tiangong Temple

Tiantan Tiangong Temple (臺灣首廟天壇) is worth a quick stop to see the calligraphy tablet that consists of a single stroke – it is considered one of the three most famous tablets in Taiwan. You can spot it on the ceiling above the main shrine. The temple is was built in 1854 on the site of what was the oldest temple in Taiwan, an altar that was used by Koxinga to communicate with the gods.

Behind (east of) the temple, a small dessert restaurant called 鷲嶺食肆 is housed in a beautiful Japanese-era house, while the Former Tainan Weather Observatory (原台南測候所) is an iconic, circular Tainan landmark beside it.

Tainan Wu Garden

The Tainan Wu Garden (吳園藝文中心) is a short walk from there, with a lovely coy pond, pavilion, and wooden teahouse called Daybreak 18 (奉茶.十八卯), pictured above.

Down a small lane (Zhongshan Road Lane 79) to the east of Wu Garden is a popular fruit juice and ice cream shop called 旭峯號 that is housed in an iconic, classically Tainan-style building. It has become something of an Instagram hotspot in recent years. 

Snail Alley

Skipping over to the west now (I recommend hopping in a cab on Zhongshan Road if you want to avoid the 10-minute walk), Snail Alley (蝸牛巷) is a cute, super narrow lane that contains a few cafés. These include Pâtisserie Le Paradise (巴哈迪 印象甜品工房), which sells snail-shaped cakes (pictured above), and a cocktail bar called Bar Lonely (籠裏). There’s also a snail mosaic in the alley.

The location of Snail Alley on GoogleMaps is not quite right and led me astray. I recommend going to Minsheng Road Section 1 #157 (民生路一段157號) to find it, or search Serendipity Café (不經意的美好 by 熹餐廳) on GoogleMaps. The alley starts right beside it.

Tai Cheng Fruit Shop

About 5 minutes’ walk from Snail Alley, this ice cream shop (and the next entry, which is right across the street from it) have become all the rage in Tainan.

Tai Cheng Fruit Shop (泰成水果店) is literally a fruit shop, but they became famous when they started adding traditional Taiwanese ice cream (like sorbet, and totally vegan!) to huge pieces of fruit. Their half melon filled with scoops of ice cream (NT220, good for 2 people) is the most famous, but there are also pineapple and mango versions.

Quan Wei Jia Ice Cream 

Opposite Tai Cheng, Quan Wei Jia Ice Cream (蜷尾家甘味處散步甜食) is a Japanese-style soft serve ice cream shop. You can expect tasty flavors like almond, earl gray, oolong tea, and genmaicha (brown rice green tea). If you can’t decide between the two ice cream shops, just get both like I did! There are also some really cute little shops in the area.

Tainan’s “Spring” (河樂廣場) is a pretty public artificial pond and water fountain. You can walk in it to cool your feet off after exploring the sights, or do as the locals do and sit in the shaded area under the street overpass. I wish we could have something like this in Taipei! This is a great stop for anyone visiting Tainan with kids.

Note that it is closed on Tuesdays for cleaning. It may also sometimes be empty when there are water shortages, which is a common problem in Taiwan, or when the weather is cool. Always check the more recent reviews on GoogleMaps before you go.

Shennong Street

Shennong Street(神農街) is one of the most atmospheric streets in Tainan. It used to be a row of shops like one of the 5 canals (五條港) leading to Anping Harbor. Boats used to go right up to the back doors of the shops.

The street is especially in the evening when all the shops are open and lanterns are lit up along the street. It runs west to east, starting at the Medicine Temple (see below) and ending at Shuixian Gong Market (also see below).

On Shennong Street, don’t miss Fat Cat Story , a cat café at the western end near the Medicine Temple. They’ve only got one cat, Bing Bing, but he’s lovey and cute, and they’ll give you food to feed him at your table. If cat cafes are your thing, here are my recommended cat cafes in Taipei , where it all started! And it’s not on Shennong Street, but there is also a capybara cafe in Tainan (there are several capybara cafes and zoo across Taiwan ).

Medicine, Wind, and Water Temples

These three Taoist temples are small but considered some of the most important in the city. They are all within a few minute’s walk from each other in the Shennong Street Area.

Medicine Temple (三協境全台開基藥王廟) is at the western end of Shennong Street, Wind Temple (風神廟) is just a few steps off Shennong Street, and Water Temple (臺郡三郊水仙宮) is inside Shuixian Gong Market (see below).

Shuixian Gong Market

Shuixian Gong Market  (水仙宮市場) is a traditional wet market (think lots of raw fish and meat, open in the morning only), but it’s worth visiting for the excellent sushi bar right in the middle of it, called 達也濱家漁場.

The Water Temple is also right in the market, a few steps from the sushi bar, and the market is named after it.

Yongle Market

Yongle Market (永樂市場) is another large morning market that is connected to Shuixian Market, starting right behind the Water Temple.

It is similar to Shuixian Gong Market, but features more restaurants and food stalls, especially along Guohua Street Section 3 (國華街三段). These include 科芬園砂鍋魚頭, where you can try fish head stew, a Chiayi dish that was famously featured on the Netflix series Street Food Asia (this isn’t the restaurant that was featured, but it’s the same dish).

Tainan Grand Mazu Temple

The most famous Matsu temple in Tainan’s city center is Tainan Grand Matsu Temple (大天后宮), but there are also impressive Matsu temples in Anping and Luehrmen (see below sections of this article).

Originally this Matsu temple was the palace of the Ming Prince Zhu Shugui and his five concubines before they killed themselves on the eve of the Qing takeover. They killed themselves in what is now the second room of the temple when you enter.

The palace was later converted into a temple honoring Matsu, goddess of the sea, who is often considered Taiwan’s patron goddess. The large Matsu statue on the main altar is a masterpiece that inspired many later Matsu statues in Taiwan. It was made over 300 years ago by a master from Quanzhou, China.  

God of War Temple

Near the Grand Matsu Temple, the God of War Temple (臺灣祀典武廟)  features a long, crimson red outer wall running along the street. Another unique feature is the super tall threshold at the entrance, dating to when women were banned from entering the temple.

Chihkan Tower

Across Minzu Road from the God of War Temple, Chikhan Tower (赤崁樓) is another of the city’s most recognizable structures. Originally called Fort Provintia (普羅民遮城), it was built by the Dutch in 1652, making it the oldest still preserved building in the central Tainan area. It is especially atmospheric when viewed at night.

You can get a small discount if you book your ticket to Chikhan Tower here on Klook .

North and South District Sights

There are a few noteworthy Tainan attractions just north and south of West Central District, in North District (北區) and South District (南區). They can be added on to the above walking tour, if you’ve got time!  

Tainan Park

Tainan Park (台南公園) in North District is the largest green space in central Tainan city, at 132,000 square meters, and often called the “Lungs of Tainan”.

The park includes a lovely pond (燕潭) with pavilion and zigzag bridge across it, a Qing Dynasty stone gate (重道崇文坊), the Tainan City Children’s Science Museum (台南市兒童科學館) for those visiting Tainan with kids, and a playground at the center. It’s a short walk from Chihkan Tower, and I enjoyed a lovely sunset there at the end of my long day of touring Tainan’s attractions!

321 Arts Village

321 Arts Village (321巷 藝術聚落) is a former Japanese military dormitory village converted into arts community, along the lines of 44 South Village in Taipei and Guangfu Village in Taichung. There are 18 former residences on site to explore, housing art galleries, live-in artist’s studios, cafés, and more.

There is always art on display, inside the homes, and in the lanes running between them. Note that it was still closed as of mid-2022.It is a short walk from Tainan Park.

Shiji Café (是吉咖啡) is a really cool café nearby with a large second-floor window overlooking a leaf-filled lane.

Also read about Pier 2 Art Village in Kaohsiung .

Blueprint Culture & Creative Park

Blueprint Culture & Creative Park (藍晒圖文創園區) in South District is best visited at night, when the photogenic 3D blueprint of a house is all lit up. There’s also a souvenir shop, a few cafés, some community art spaces, an indigo dying house, a statues of a blue robot mascot guy throughout!

Black Bridge Sausage Museum

Yes, there is a dedicated sausage museum (黑橋牌香腸博物館) in South District, and no, I never made it there. But it’s quite popular among locals, so I’ll throw it out there for all you sausage lovers!

Night Markets in Tainan

The night markets in Tainan work a little differently than night markets in Taipei or other cities in Taiwan. Each one has its own night, or a couple nights of the week, and some of the most famous food vendors move between them on each day of the week.

There’s a common local saying to help you remember when to go where: 大大武花大花花 (大 for Ta-Tung on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday, 武 for Wusheng on Wednesday, and 花 for Garden on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Tainan night markets are also typically set up in large open areas like parking lots, not on regular streets. Also, they are all located well away from the city center, so you’ll have to journey to reach them. You can find out what to eat at each one in my guide to Tainan’s night markets (coming soon).

Garden Night Market

Garden Night Market (花園夜市) is the largest and most famous night market in Tainan, and by some counts, the largest in all of Taiwan, with over 400 stalls. It’s open on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, and is a ways up in North District.

Ta-Tung Night Market

Ta-Tung (大東夜市, or Dadong Night Market) in East District is the second most famous night market in Tainan. It runs Monday, Tuesday and Friday.

Wusheng Night Market

Wusheng Night Market (武聖夜市) used to be Tainan’s favorite, but it has now slipped to the third spot. It runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It is in West Central District, but in the northwestern corner of the district, a ways from any of the city center attractions (it takes 15 minutes to reach it on foot from Shennong Street, mentioned above in this article)

Xiaobei Night Market

Xiaobei Night Market (小北觀光夜市) is near Garden Night Market in North District, but opens on days when Garden isn’t (Tuesday and Friday).

Xin Yong Hua Night Market

Xin Yong Hua Night Market (新永華夜市) in Anping district (see next section) is a new, pleasantly uncrowded, and relatively small night market that runs on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Things to Do in Tainan’s Anping District

You really can’t visit Tainan without spending a day in Anping District (安南區), even half a day, if you can! This historic district features the original Dutch Fort from when they colonized Taiwan, the awesome Anping Treehouse, Anping Old Street, and a few other worthwhile sites.

If you’ve got extra time, there are a few more sights in neighboring Annan District, but easily accessible from Anping, in the next section below, including the famous Sicao Green Tunnel.

 Anping Grand Mazu Temple

It makes sense to start your Anping visit at Anpring Grand Mazu Temple (安平開臺天后宮), near entrance to the fort, because the exit of the fort will then lead you to the next destination below. Anping’s Matsu Temple holds the title for oldest running Matsu temple on mainland Taiwan (there’s an even older one in Penghu ).

The three large Matsu statues on the main shrine inside have flexible bodies and sit on wooden stools that date to the Song Dynasty. The temple is a stunner, but if I could make one request, it would be to install air conditioning; it was scorching inside the temple on the day I visited!

Anping Old Fort

Anping Fort (安平古堡), or Fort Zeelandia , was the original Dutch Fort in Taiwan during their brief (38-year) occupation. It was built from 1624 to 1634 by the Dutch East India Company. When you first enter near the back of Anping Grand Mazu Temple, you’ll see a small museum to the left, which includes models of the original fort.

Behind the museum is an original outer fort wall built of bricks imported from Batavia (today’s Jakarta, capital of the Dutch East Indies at the time). You can climb the inner fort, which is to the right of the main entrance.

There are canons, statues, and a souvenir shop on top. You can also climb the white scouthouse for an impressive 360-degree view of the surrounding Yanshui River, Anping Canal, Anping District. The exit of the complex is at the backside of the fort and leads to the next attraction below.

For another interesting fort in southern Taiwan, see my guide to Cijin Island in Kaohsiung .

Entrance to the fort is NT50, or cheaper if you pre-order your ticket online . It’s also included on the Tainan Historical Sights pass .

Anping Treehouse and Former Tait & Co. Merchant House

Anping Treehouse (安平樹屋) is one of Anping’s most popular attractions. It consists of an abandoned warehouse that has been completely taken over by banyan trees. It sits behind Former Tait & Co. Merchant House (英商德記洋行), now a small museum, which was a merchant house during the Qing Dynasty and Japanese period.

There’s also Mr. Zhu’s Home & Calligraphy Exhibit (朱玖瑩故居(因鹽玖定), the first building you’ll see when you enter the site, while Former Tait is to the left, and the treehouse is behind it. Before leaving, enjoy the excellent soft serve ice cream at the small café on site (I had sea salt and caramel flavor when I visited). Note the staircase decorations on the walls inside, meant to replicate the elevated walking paths inside the treehouse.

For more information see my detailed guide to Anping Treehouse .

You can also pre-order your tickets online to save a little money. The treehouse is covered by the Tainan Historical Sights Pass .

Anping Old Street

Anping Old Street (安平老街), also called Yanping Street (延平街), is sometimes called the oldest street in Taiwan. It runs west to east from the east side of Anping Fort, and doesn’t really get going until around noon.

The street’s two major specialties are shrimp crackers (蝦餅), which you can see being made right on the street, and dried fruits, with the most famous shop selling the latter being Lin Yong Tai Dried Fruit Store (林永泰興蜜餞行, #84). Like other old streets in Taiwan, Anping Old Street can get very crowded, but when I visited during COVID, there was hardly anyone there.

Here’s my foodie-focused self-guided walking tour of Anping Old Street .

Haishan Hall

While exploring the Old Street, if you left turn down Lane 104, just after the small temple, you can reach a beautiful old house called Haishan Hall (海山館). Look for the lion with a sword in its mouth above the entranceway; these were once used as house markers instead of numbers, and they are now a symbol of Anping. 

Cultural Museum of An-Ping Oyster Shell Cement Kiln

A five-minute walk from Haishan Hall or Anping Old Street, this small, free museum (安平蚵灰窯文化館) explains more than you ever wanted to know about oysters, including how their shells were fired in the kiln on site to make cement.

On the way, you can also stop in at Anping Market (安平市場, 6 am to 1 pm), if you’re interested in seeing a traditional Taiwanese wet market.

Anping Salt God White Beach Park

Anping Salt God White Beach Park (安平鹽神白沙灘公園) is a small white-sand beach on a pond, with a white statue of a god beside it. You can’t swim here on, but it makes for an interesting, if unexpected, photo op in Anping.

Sio House Salt Museum

Right next to the white beach, the Sio House Salt Museum (台南安平-夕遊出張所)  is a very small museum about Tainan’s salt industry. There isn’t much to see, but they do sell birthday salts, as in a different type of salt for every day of the year.

You can also buy a few salt-flavored foods and drinks (including salt soda, popsicles, and dou hua ), and the museum is housed in a lovely Japanese wooden home. There are other more interesting salt-related attractions in Tainan (see the final section of this article).

In the same area, the Old Julius Mannich Merchant House (東興洋行) is another old house that now contains a restaurant. Anping Small Fort (安平小砲臺) is also a short walk away, but it won’t blow you away compared to Anpring Fort or Eternal Golden Castle (see below).

I recommend visiting the following sights in the late afternoon, as the sun is beginning to set (I did so after I checked into this hotel, which I highly recommend ). They are in order as you would encounter them on foot, coming from the Anping Fort/Old Street area.

Anping Harbor and Anping Canal

To Enjoy a good view of Anping Harbor (安平港), you can climb to the top floor of the Anping Community Center (台南市安平區金城里活動中心), just a 5-minute walk south of Anping Old Street and Fort. The building houses a bar called Hola (安平果然是你) with a view of the harbor. The harbor-side of the building also has a whale mural that looks cool when lit up at night.

Anping Canal runs for six kilometers inland and back to the harbor, creating a large island that makes up most of Anping District. There are walking and cycling trails along it, and Anping Canal Park (安平運河公園) can be lovely, especially at night. There are several bridges crossing the canal, including the rainbow-colored New Lin An Bridge (新臨安橋). There’s also the small Anping Canal Museum (安平海關 運河博物館), which was closed when I visited in 2022.

Anping Fisherman’s Wharf

If you cross Anyi Bridge, where Anping Harbor connects to Anping Canal, you’ll reach Anping Fisherman’s Wharf (安平漁人碼頭), which is known for sunset views. Historic Harborside Park (港濱歷史公園) is famous for its Whale Art Installation (大魚的祝福(鯨魚裝置藝術), which you can climb up into.

Lin Mo Niang Park

Following the Historic Harborside Park on foot or by bike to the west toward the ocean will bring you to Lin Mo Niang Park (林默娘公園), named after Matsu, the goddess of the sea. There, a towering white Matsu statue stands, protecting Taiwan, and welcoming ships as they enter the harbour. This is just one of several large Matsu statues in the county (see the others in my guide to the most important landmarks in Taiwan ).

1661 Taiwan Warship Museum

The Taiwan Warship Museum (臺灣船園區) is a small, harborside museum featuring a red and black wooden warship dating to the 1600s. There isn’t a whole lot to see; usually you can go on the ship, but it was closed for renos when I visited. Still, marine warfare fans might want to take a quick look on the way to the next entry.

Entrance is listed as NT30 (it was actually free when I visited, possibly because I showed up just a few minutes before closing), and it’s closed on Mondays. Make sure to get there before the 5:30 closing time.

Deyang Ship Destroyer Exhibition Hall

The more worthwhile Deyang Ship Destroyer Exhibition Hall (安平定情碼頭德陽艦園區) features the USS Sarsfield , a US Navy ship that was laid down at the end of WWII, deployed in Cuba, the Vietnam War, and finally used by the Taiwan navy before being retired in 1977.

You can explore several floors and rooms of the ship. There are also some small Republic of China tanks and aircraft on site. You can get a small discount if you buy your tickets here on Klook .

Eternal Golden Castle

The Eternal Golden Castle, also called Erkunshen Battery (億載金城 / 二鯤鯓砲臺) was built to resist invading Japanese troops. I recommend visiting right before the 5:30 p.m. closing time, when the low rays of the sun make the ruins live up to their name.

The Eternal Golden Castle is located in the large Yizai Park (億載公園), just five minutes from Deyang Ship Destroyer. You can get a small discount if you book your ticket here on Klook . Entrance to the castle is covered by the Historical Tainan Sights Pass .

Yuguang Island

Yuguang Island (漁光島) is an unexpected gem and rare tropical beach/island on the otherwise super developed west coast of Taiwan. I’ve included it on both my lists of best beaches and islands of Taiwan .

connected to the mainland via a rounded bridge. It’s a bit far (20 minutes on foot), but possible to walk from Eternal Golden Castle to the beautiful stretch of sand at Moon Bay.

It’s a popular spot at sunset, and there are some food stalls at the end of the bridge, just before the park and beach. If you’ve got your own wheels, you could further explore the island’s various fishing docks and lighthouses.

Sunset Platform

For another sunset vantage point, you can consider Sunset Platform (觀夕平臺), which is just across the harbor entrance from Yuguang Island, but too far away from the latter to reach on foot (you’d have to walk all the way around the entire harbor.

There’s also a beach near Sunset Platform at Qiaotouhaitan Park (橋頭海灘公園), also popular at sunset, as well as Anping Lighthouse (安平燈塔).

Places to Visit in Annan District

The following attractions are in Annan district, just north of Anping, but easily accessible from Anping. Since it’s possible to see the main attractions of Anping in half a day, you could include one or more of the following to complete your day, and spend the night in Anping at this hotel , and visit the following sights the next morning like I did.

Taijiang National Park

Taijiang National Park (臺江國家公園) is a relatively new (created in 2009) national park protecting mostly wetlands and marine areas. The most popular way to explore the national park is by taking a boat tour to Sicao Green Tunnel (see next entry) or a longer tour of the national park provided by the same boat operator.

The longer tour visits several stops in the national park, but mainly only runs in winter, when rare black-faced spoonbills, a migratory bird, can be seen in the area.

Sicao Green Tunnel

A popular attraction, Sicao Green Tunnel (四草綠色隧道) is a “tunnel” formed by a canopy of trees over a canal in a wetland area in Taijiang National Park . Thirty-minute boat tours depart after enough people arrive.

The same company offers longer tours that cover more ground in the national park, which are more popular in winter, when the migratory black-faced spoonbill can be spotted. Read my guide to Sicao Green Tunnel for all the details!

Luerhmen Mazu Temple

The extremely impressive Luerhmen Mazu Temple (正統鹿耳門聖母廟) is one of the largest temples in Taiwan. It’s well out of the way and not easy to reach. I recommend going by scooter, which I did, but you can also take bus Tainan bus 11 to Shengmu Temple stop, or Tourist Bus 99, when it’s actually running (the bus has been majorly reduced because of lack of tourists).

The huge, colorful temple complex is surrounded by a moat and has two towering statues of demons protecting the temple in the parking lot. It is the world’s largest temple dedicated to Matsu.

National Museum of Taiwan History

Also far out of the way, the National Museum of Taiwan History (國立臺灣歷史博物館) is nevertheless one of the best history museums in Taiwan. To get there, you can take bus 18 from the city center.

Tainan Day Trips

The following places are further afield in Tainan City, making them suitable as day trips from Tainan.

Chimei Museum

The rather unexpected (it looks something like the Whitehouse in Washington D.C.) Chimei Museum (奇美博物館) also contains a surprisingly large array of artifacts. Inside you’ll find five major collections: musical instruments (including the world’s largest violin collection), fine arts, natural history/fossils, antiques, and an impressive armor collection.

Several buses go there from the city center, including ones en route to the Tainan High Speed Rail station; use GoogleMaps to find the best bus options from your departure location.

You get discounted tickets to Chimei Museum here on Klook .

Cigu Salt Mountain

Cigu Salt Mountain (七股鹽山, or Qigu Salt Mountain) is exactly what it sounds like: a mountain of salt. It’s a photogenic site, and you can climb several staircases to the top. It lies in the namesake Qigu District, which was once famous for its salt industry. You can also taste a wide variety of salted items on site, including salt ice cream, salt douhua, and seafood baked atop hunks of salt.

The Qigu Salt Museum (成功鹽體驗館) is just around the corner and worth an hour of your time. There are salt sculptures, loads of info about the former industry, and a café that does salted coffees.

For more information on Cigu and the next entry, see my guide to Cigu Salt Mountain and Tainan’s Salt Fields.

About 25 minutes’ drive away from Cigu Salt Mountain, Guosheng Lighthouse (國聖港燈塔) sits at the westernmost point on Mainland Taiwan. There are also some beautiful sand dunes there, called Dingtoue Sandbar (頂頭額沙洲).

Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields

The Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields (台南北門井仔腳瓦盤鹽田) are the most photogenic reminders of Tainan’s salt producing past. The beautifully preserved salt fields north of Qigu Salt Mountain are especially photogenic in the late afternoon. You can even walk on some of them and try your hand at shoveling salt. There’s a tower you can climb to get a truly impressive view from above.

Beimen Crystal Church

Not far from Jingzijiao Wapan, Beimen Crystal Church (水晶教堂) is a curved glass structure surrounded by a pond. It’s a popular Instagram spot and wedding photography location. If this kind of site appeals to you, also consider visiting the High-Heeled Shoes Church (高跟鞋教堂) not too far away across the border in Chiayi County.

Laotanghu Art Village

Art lovers can consider visiting Laotanghu Art Village (老塘湖藝術村), where the ruins of old homes have been fixed up by artists, including treeehouses, cute shops, and a wooden bridge to more atmospheric homes on a small island.

Yanshui Fireworks Festival

Often called one of the most dangerous festivals in the world, the Yanshui Fireworks Festival (鹽水蜂炮) takes place in Yanshui district in northern Tainan. The festival started when locals set off fire crackers to ward off a cholera epidemic in the late 1800s.

Now, every year on the 15 th day of the first month on the Lunar Calendar (the same day as the Lantern Festival ; see more info in my guide to Taiwan’s festivals ), mobs of people in the street get pummelled by thousands of bottle rockets, sometimes even causing their clothing to start on fire! You can read all about my experience at the Yanshui Fireworks Festival .

Guanziling Hot Spring

One of Taiwan’s most unique hot springs is the mud hot spring found at Guanziling in northeastern Tainan. The best spot in town to try bathing in the muddy waters, and rubbing mud on your body (it’s great for the skin) is King’s Garden Villa (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ).

You can find all the details you need for visiting in my guide to Guanziling Mud Hot Spring .

Dongshan Coffee Road

Also in Guanziling district, Dongshan Coffee Road (175咖啡公路) on highway 175 offers the chance to sample locally grown coffee directly from coffee farmers. Plums, longans, and other citrus fruits are also grown in the area. It’s a popular cycling destination.

Erliao Sunrise Pavilion

The Erliao Sunrise Pavillion (台南二寮觀日亭) in southeastern Tainan is a wooden walkway along a mountainous road to a platform that features epic mountain views. You’ll want to come for sunrise, if possible, for a chance to see the famed sunrise above mist-covered hilltops. It’s a similar view that is often associated with Alishan in neighborhing Chiayi County .

Caoshan Moon World Grand Canyon

A 20-minute drive further up the same road will bring you to Caoshan Moon World Grand Canyon (草山月世界大峽谷). Head to “308高地觀景台 viewing platform” for the best views of the canyon. The scenery is reminiscent of the similar Moon World Landscape Park in neighboring Kaohsiung.

Tsailiao Fossil Museum

A 20-minute drive in a different direction from Erliao Sunrise Pavillion will take you to Tsailiao Fossil Museum (臺南左鎮化石園區), which features fossils and replicas of dinosaurs and other ancient creatures.

Huxingshan Park

If you’re visiting the area around Lunar New Year in Taiwan, definitely make a stop at Huxingshan Park (虎形山公園), which is decked out with cool lights and lantern displays at the time. There’s also a suspension bridge and art displays on site.

Well, I hope you’ve found more than enough ideas for fun things to do in Tainan, Taiwan! Let me know in the comments how your trip goes of if I missed anything!

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4 thoughts on “70 Things to Do in Tainan, Taiwan’s Ancient Capital”

Hi Nick, thank you for such a comprehensive list of places to see in Tainan. I am a single female solo traveller and is interested to catch the sunrise at Erliao Pavillion. How can I get there without driving a car?

Will appreciate your advice. Thank you in advance.

Best regards, Dara.

In the daytime, it takes at least 2 hours to get there by bus, usually with a couple transfers needed. If you wanted to go for sunrise, then the only option would be to find a private driver willing to go that early, wait for you, then drive you back down.

Hey Nick! Thank you for the most comprehensive English guide on Taiwan! I had a question – is it possible to get from Tainan to Alishan? On the map and from Google it seems entirely possible, yet I don’t see it being mentioned in many guides.

You just need to hop on any train from Tainan to Chiayi first, then follow the instructions on my website or other sites for taking the bus from Chiayi to Alishan

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City Guides , Taiwan , Tips & Inspo · November 27, 2021

Getting From Taipei to Tainan: Easiest Ways to Travel

Wondering how to get from Taipei to Tainan? Then you’re in the right place !

Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city and former capital, is home to a wonderful mix of culture, history, and food. With hundreds of temples, historical monuments, and museums, there are loads to do in Tainan ! If you’re keen to experience all of Tainan’s sights and sounds, then the very first step is figuring out how to get to Tainan.

Tainan is located on the southwestern coast of Taiwan, roughly 310km from Taipei. While this might sound quite far, traveling between Taipei and Tainan is actually quite easy! And in this guide, I’ll share the easiest ways to travel from Taipei to Tainan , so that you can spend less time worrying about the logistics and more time enjoying all of Tainan’s best attractions!

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 Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Tainan from Taipei

Taking the high speed rail from taipei to tainan.

If your Taiwan itinerary is already jam-packed with things to do or you hate wasting time on transport, traveling between Taipei and Tainan by high-speed rail train is the best option for you. 

Taking the HSR from Taipei to Tainan is by far the quickest and most comfortable way to travel between the two cities. And the journey only takes 1.5-2 hours (depending on which train you take). 

The Taiwan High-Speed Rail (or THSR) has dozens of trains daily from Taipei City to Tainan. Trains depart  every 30-40 minutes from Taipei Main Station , and it’s also possible to catch a train at  Nangang  (north of the main station) or  Banqiao  (south of the main station) in Taipei. However, since Taipei Main Station is the central transport hub in Taipei, let’s stick to that as our starting point. 

The first train leaves Taipei Main Station for Tainan HSR Station at 6:26 am, and the last one is at 10:16 pm. Tickets generally cost NTD 1350 for a reserved seat and NTD 1305 for non-reserved seats. Business-class tickets are also available and cost NTD 2230 for a seat. Unless you need a bit of extra legroom, there’s  really  no need to splurge on a business class seat, as the regular seats are just as nice and comfortable. 

If you’re traveling on weekends or during special holidays it’s a good idea to grab HSR tickets (only available to tourists) in advance because reserved seats fill up quickly. And since each train only has three cars (Car 10-12) dedicated to non-reserved seats, getting a seat is not always guaranteed. Alternatively, you can also pre-book tickets online via the  THSR website  (up to 28 days in advance) or buy them in person at any HSR station across the island. 

How to Get from the HSR Station to Tainan City

The only disadvantage of taking the HSR to Tainan, besides being expensive, is that the station is not in the city center. Tainan’s HSR Station is located in Guiren District, just on the city’s outskirts. So if you do choose to take the HSR, note that you’ll need to take either a bus, train or taxi to get into town.

• Taxi:  There are plenty of taxis at Exit 3 of the HSR Station. A ride to the downtown area costs roughly TWD 400-500 and takes about 30 minutes.
• TSHR Shuttle Bus:  Another option is to take the free THSR Shuttle Bus. Buses  H31  and  H62  both travel to downtown Tainan and depart from Exit 2.
• Train:  Shalun Station (TRA) is located next to the HSR station and has frequent trains to Tainan Train Station. The ride takes roughly 30 minutes and only costs NTD 25. Access the station either via Exit 1 or Exit 2. 

Taking the train from Taipei to Tainan

If travel time is not an issue for you, then another option to get to Tainan is by regular train. 

Taiwan Railways (TRA) operates various trains daily between Taipei Main Station and Tainan Station . If you’re staying in the downtown area, this is a great option because you’ll have plenty of buses and taxis ready to transport you to all corners of the city. Moreover, if you’ve booked a hotel near the train station, you might even be able to walk to your accommodation!

Although taking the standard train from Taipei to Tainan will take much longer than the HSR, the ride is smooth and comfortable. And since trains in Taiwan are frequent and rarely late, it’s a very convenient mode of transport. 

Several train lines run between the two cities, with  Puyuma Express  trains being the fastest. Other options include  Tze-Chiang Limited Express  and the  Chu-Kuang Express . While Tze-Chiang Limited Express and the Chu-Kuang Express are generally slightly cheaper than the Puyuma Express trains, you should know they often take much longer. A Puyuma train to Tainan takes just over 3 hours, whereas a train ride on the other two can take anywhere from 4 to 6.5 hours, depending on which train you take.

You can buy a ticket right at the train station or online via the TRA website . But since taking the train is a popular mode of transport, it’s best to buy your tickets a day or two in advance. If you really like to plan ahead, it is possible to make a reservation up to 14 days in advance. 

So how much is a train ticket from Taipei to Tainan? Well, that depends on which train you take and what time of day you travel. But in general, you can expect to pay anywhere between NTD 569 and NTD 738. For more details on prices and schedules, see the TRA website (above). 

Taking the bus to Tainan

The last option on this list of how to get to Tainan from Taipei is the bus.

Taking the bus to Tainan is by far the cheapest way to get straight into the city. However, it’s also the longest mode of transport, and journey times can be unpredictable, especially during peak traffic hours.

On average, a bus ticket only costs around NTD 450 to NTD 480. This is a lot cheaper than the HSR or normal train. With that said, expect the trip to take anywhere between 4 to 5 hours. 

You can purchase a ticket right at Taipei Bus Station (adjacent to Taipei Main Station), and it’s best to check the  bus schedules  well in advance. Both  Ubus  and  Kuo Kuang Bus  have several buses traveling between Taipei Bus Station and Tainan Bus Station each day. If you’d like to save some time (and guarantee a seat), you can pre-book a seat in advance via Klook. Alternatively, make sure to get to the bus station a bit earlier so that you can buy a ticket. 

Tainan Bus Station is roughly a 15-minute walk northwest of Tainan Train Station. If you don’t want to walk to the train station, you can also take a taxi or a local bus. Buses leave every 20 minutes, between 8 am and 10 pm, and a ride costs NTD 26. The easiest way to check real-time schedules is on Google Maps, but you can also find more info on  Tainan City Bus schedules  here. 

Getting to Tainan in Conclusion

While it is possible to fly and even drive to Tainan, these options won’t be nearly as fast or convenient as the other transport methods listed in this post.

I always travel with the HSR because I hate wasting time on transportation. But if you prefer to travel at a slower pace or have a tight budget, taking the bus or local train to Tainan are great alternatives. 

I hope this guide has helped you figure out the best way to travel between these two cities!

Well, there you have it – three easy ways to travel between Tainan and Taipei! Which one is your favorite? 

Need more help figuring out how to get around Taiwan?

• How to Get to Hualien from Taipei
• How to Get to Taichung from Taipei
• Getting to Kaohsiung from Taipei
• How to Get to Kenting from Kaohsiung
• Getting to Jiufen from Taipei
• Getting from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake
• How to get to Alishan fro Chiayi
• Getting from Taichung to Cingjing Farm
• How to Get to Shifen Waterfall from Taipei
• How to get to Penghu

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July 12, 2023 at

Thank you for sharing these 3 different ways to get to Tainan. As we are arriving at Taoyuan Terminal 2, which is the best way to get to Tainan from this terminal?

hope to hear from you soon. Thank you, Miko

July 14, 2023 at

Hey Miko, you can take the Airport MRT (blue line) to Taoyuan Station (marked A18). It stops at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. From there, just hop on the HSR (high speed rail) to Tainan. Note the HSR Station is a little outside of town, so you’d need to catch a taxi or a bus to your hotel in Tainan. Hope this helps!

February 15, 2024 at

Thank you for the detailed info. So helpful, especially the note on the disadvantage of taking HSR in Tainan.

Thanks May – glad it helps! 🙂

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• Getting To & Getting Around Tainan

Each hour at least two and usually three trains from Taipei and two more from Kaohsiung arrive at Tainan’s High-Speed Railway (HSR) station. The station is inconveniently located far from the downtown. Bullet trains take one hour 40 minutes to/from Taipei (US$44 one way at the time of writing), while Kaohsiung is just 15 minutes away (US$5 one way), but travelers should allow another half hour to reach the city centre. For the final leg of the journey, shuttle buses and a commuter train service are alternatives to taking a taxi, but don’t go anywhere near some popular hotels .

Conventional trains and long-distance buses link Tainan with all of Taiwan’s major cities. Of the former, the fastest are the Puyuma expresses (three and a quarter hours to Taipei; US$24). By coach, Taipei is around four and a half hours away; one-way tickets sometimes cost as little as US$9, peak periods being pricier than midweek and journeys inevitably taking longer.

Excursions north and south

The best way to get to Kaohsiung to the south is by regular train , with most of the very frequent services making the journey in under an hour and costing less than US$3. Chiayi— from where it’s possible to travel on to Alishan — lies to the north and is slightly further away; express trains require 40 minutes (US$6 one way). Tourists heading to the east coast can bypass Kaohsiung and board one of the six trains per day to Taitung. On most of these services, the travel time is below three hours; one-way tickets cost around US$15 but should be booked a few days in advance, especially if you aim to go on a weekend.

Tainan doesn’t yet have a metro or rapid-transist system and the city’s bus system isn’t as comprehensive as that in Taipei. That doesn’t much matter because many of Tainan’s historical attractions are within walking distance of one another. Getting to Anping, however, means either hailing a taxi (it shouldn’t cost more than US$7 from the city centre) or boarding the No. 2 city bus (services every 20 minutes; journey takes around 25 minutes; less than US$1 one way). Once in Anping, it’s possible to rent a bicycle or simply walk from one relic to the next.

Renting a car in Tainan makes some sense — not for the city itself, but for exploring sights within the Siraya National Scenic Area like Moonworld and Xinhua. If driving oneself, the Buddhist complex at Foguangshan , Pingtung County’s indigenous communities and Taijiang National Park come within striking distance. Rental companies have offices inside the HSR station and close to the conventional railway station.

More information about Tainan

• Accommodation & Food in Tainan

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Pingtung & Tainan 4-Day Exploration: Discover Taiwan's Hidden Gems

April 22, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 4-day journey through the historical and natural wonders of Pingtung and Tainan with Trip.com. Begin your adventure in Tainan, exploring the Anping Tree House, a site where history intertwines with nature, before marveling at the architecture of Anping Old Fort. Stroll through Anping Old Street to soak up the local culture and end your day with a visit to the Chimei Museum, a trove of military artifacts. Day two immerses you in spiritual heritage at the Confucius Temple and the majestic Da Tian Hou Gong, followed by a step back in time at Fort Provintia. Your third day takes you to the serene Lambai Island for a full day of tranquility, complemented by the fascinating exhibits at the Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium. Witness the rugged beauty of Cape Eluanbi and stand at the Southernmost Point of Taiwan, capturing the essence of the island's edge. The final day is reserved for the lush landscapes of Kenting National Park, where nature's splendor unfolds, and the vibrant Kenting Night Market, where the flavors and crafts of Taiwan come to life. This curated itinerary promises a memorable tapestry of experiences, from historical insights to natural escapades, ensuring your time in Pingtung and Tainan is unforgettable.

• Day 1: Time-Traveling Through Tainan's Treasures

Anping Tree House

Begin your Tainan adventure stepping into the past at the Anping Tree House. Once a warehouse, nature has reclaimed this historic site, with banyan tree roots intricately woven through its structure, creating a mystical atmosphere. Spend an hour marveling at this unique blend of history and nature, nestled in the heart of Anping District.

Attraction Info

• Gubao St, Anping District, Tainan City, Taiwan 708
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open from 8:30am-5:30pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Anping Old Fort

Continue your historical journey to Anping Old Fort, a castle that stands as a testament to Tainan's colonial past. Just a short stroll from the Tree House, allocate an hour to explore the fort's ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, immersing yourself in the stories of yesteryear.

• No. 82 Guosheng Road, Anping District, Tainan City
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour

Anping Old Street

Stroll down the nostalgic path of Anping Old Street, where the past and present of Tainan converge. Spend an hour wandering through this characteristic neighborhood, with its historic sites and traditional Taiwanese snacks, crafts, and souvenirs that offer a tangible piece of the city's rich cultural tapestry.

• Yanping Street, Anping District, Tainan City, Taiwan 708
• Open 24 hours

Chimei Museum

Conclude your day with a visit to the Chimei Museum, a cultural gem that goes beyond its military exhibits to include fine arts and natural history. Just a short drive from Anping, spend your final hour of the day surrounded by the museum's diverse collections, celebrating the spirit of exploration and discovery.

• No. 66, Section 2, Wenhua Road, Rende District, Tainan City
• Open on Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun,9:30am-5:30pm;Closed on Wed

Where to Stay Tonight

Just sleep tainan hushan, royal guest hotel.

• Day 2: Cultural Treasures of Tainan

Confucius Temple

Begin your second day in Tainan with a visit to the venerable Confucius Temple, a sanctuary of tranquility and respect. Nestled at No. 2, Nanmen Road, this historical gem offers a serene escape where you can immerse yourself in the wisdom of the past. Spend an hour wandering through its halls, admiring the traditional architecture and the aura of reverence that has been preserved for generations.

• No. 2, Nanmen Road, West Central District, Tainan City

Da Tian Hou Gong

Next, delve into the spiritual heart of Tainan at Da Tian Hou Gong, a majestic Mazu temple and ancestral hall that commands attention. Located at No.18, Lane 227, Section 2, Yongfu Road, this sacred site is a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and devotion. Allocate three hours to explore the intricate carvings and to witness the local faithful paying homage to Mazu, the revered sea goddess.

• No.18, Lane 227, Section 2, Yongfu Road, Tainan, Taiwan
• Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
• Open from 6:00am-9:00pm

Fort Provintia

Conclude your day's exploration at Fort Provintia, a beacon of Tainan's storied past. Standing proudly at 13th Floor, No. 6, Section 2, Yonghua Road, this historic site offers a glimpse into the colonial era with its well-preserved structures. Spend an hour here to soak in the tales of yesteryear and enjoy the panoramic views that have watched over Tainan for centuries.

• 13th Floor, No. 6, Section 2, Yonghua Road, Anping District, Tainan City
• Open from 8:30am-9:30pm

Chikan Fun Guesthouse

Oyaji guesthouse.

• Day 3: Exploring Pingtung's Marine Wonders and Southern Charms

Lambai Island

Kickstart your third day with an island adventure at Lambai Island, a hidden gem in Liuqiu Township. As the first stop of the day, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this small island paradise. Known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, Lambai Island is a snorkeler's dream. Spend your day basking in the sun, exploring the vibrant coral reefs, or simply enjoying the laid-back island atmosphere.

• Lambai Island, Liuqiu Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan 929
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days

Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium

After the island retreat, dive into the depths of oceanic knowledge at the Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium. A short journey from Lambai Island, this museum is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity. With just an hour here, you'll have the chance to witness a fascinating array of sea creatures and interactive exhibits, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for all ages.

• No. 2, Houwan Road, Houwan Village, Checheng Township, Pingtung County
• Open from 01/01-02/08,9:00am-5:30pm;Open 9:00am-5:30pm on 02/09;Open from 02/10-02/14,8:00am-6:00pm;Open from 02/15-06/30,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 07/01-08/31,Mon-Fri,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 07/01-08/31,Sat-Sun,8:00am-6:00pm;Open from 09/01-12/31,9:00am-5:30pm

Cape Eluanbi

Continue your coastal journey to the majestic Cape Eluanbi, a scenic landmark that stands as the southernmost tip of Taiwan. Spend an hour marveling at the towering lighthouse, which guards the coast against the vast Pacific Ocean. The surrounding park offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Taiwan's natural coastal beauty, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts alike.

• No. 301, Goose Road, Goose Village, Hengchun Town, Pingtung County, Taiwan
• Open from 6:30am-6:30pm

Southernmost Point of Taiwan

Conclude your day's exploration at the Southernmost Point of Taiwan, just a stone's throw away from Cape Eluanbi. This geographical marvel marks the end of the island and offers a unique opportunity to stand at the edge of Taiwan. In half an hour, you can soak in the breathtaking ocean vistas, capture memorable photos, and reflect on the natural splendor that the southern tip of Taiwan has to offer.

• Eluanli Village, Hengchun Town, Pingtung County, Taiwan
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour

La Maison B&B

Uni-resort kenting.

• Day 4: Exploring the Natural Wonders and Vibrant Nights of Kenting

Kenting National Park

Begin your final day with the breathtaking landscapes of Kenting National Park, a true jewel of Taiwan's southern coast. As the first national park in Taiwan, it offers a full day's exploration of diverse ecosystems, including tropical forests, meadows, and stunning coastlines. The park is a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife and plant species, and its hiking trails lead to panoramic views that are sure to be the highlight of your trip. Embrace the serenity of the morning by wandering through the lush greenery and along the pristine beaches, where the waves gently kiss the shore.

• Hengchun Town, Pingtung County, Taiwan
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
• Open on Tue-Sun,8:00am-5:00pm;Closed on Mon

Kenting Night Market

As the sun sets on your Pingtung adventure, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Kenting Night Market. This characteristic neighborhood comes alive in the evening, offering a feast for the senses with its array of local snacks, trendy boutiques, and lively street performances. Spend a couple of hours strolling through the vibrant stalls, tasting delicious street food, and picking up unique souvenirs to remember your journey. Located on Kending Road, this night market is the perfect spot to wrap up your four-day exploration of Pingtung and Tainan with a taste of local culture and nightlife.

• Taiwan, Pingtung County, Hengchun Township, Kending Rd, 946
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open from 5:00pm-11:00pm

Xing Ji Hostel

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 11, 2023

Taiwan - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in Taiwan.

Read the  Taiwan International Travel Information  page for additional information on travel to Taiwan.

If you decide to travel to Taiwan:

• Follow the U.S. Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the  security report for Taiwan  from the Overseas Security Advisory Council.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Embassy Message

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Valid throughout duration of stay

1 page per entry/exit stamp

Not required for stay of less than 90 days

None required. Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends travelers to Taiwan be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. Vaccination information can be found here .

Declare cash amounts over 100,000 New Taiwan Dollars (NTD), foreign currencies over 10,000 USD, or over 20,000 Chinese Yuan (RMB). Customs details are here.

Embassies and Consulates

The American Institute in Taiwan, Taipei Main Office 100 Jinhu Road, Neihu District Taipei 114017, Taiwan Telephone:  +886-2-2162 2000 ext. 2306 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +886-2-2162 2000 Fax:  +886-2-2162 2239 Email:   [email protected]

The American Institute in Taiwan, Kaohsiung Branch Office 5th Floor, No. 88, Chenggong 2nd Road, Qianzhen District Kaohsiung 806618, Taiwan Telephone:   +886-7-335 5006 Emergency After-Hours Telephone   +886-2-2162 2000 Fax:  +886-7-338-0551 Email:   [email protected]

The United States maintains unofficial relations with the people on Taiwan through the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), a private nonprofit corporation, which performs U.S. citizen and consular services similar to those at embassies.

Schedule routine American Citizen Services appointments online. Appointments are available Monday through Thursday except on Taiwan and U.S. holidays .

Destination Description

See the U.S. Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Taiwan for information on U.S.-Taiwan relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

If you wish to enter Taiwan as a tourist or short-term visitor (less than 90 days), you do not need a visa. No extensions or changes of status are permitted. For visa-waiver travel, your U.S. passport must be valid through the number of days you intend to stay. Six-month passport validity is not required.

If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or plan to work or reside in Taiwan, you need a Taiwan visa prior to traveling. Visit the website for the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in the United States for the most current visa information.

Taiwan and the United States both allow dual nationality. If you have dual Taiwan-U.S. nationality, you must enter/exit Taiwan on your Taiwan passport and enter/exit the United States on your U.S. passport.

See our website for information on  dual nationality  or the  prevention of international child abduction .

Also see our  Customs Information page .

Taiwan does not have any specific COVID-19 entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

Safety and Security

Potential for Civil Disturbances: Taiwan enjoys a vibrant democracy, and both spontaneous and planned demonstrations occur.  Monitor media coverage of local and regional events and avoid public demonstrations.

Potential for Typhoons and Earthquakes:  During the typhoon season (May through November),  Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau  issues typhoon warnings an average of five times a year (of which, three to four normally make landfall) and heavy rainstorm alerts more frequently. Taiwan also has severe earthquakes. The most recent severe earthquakes included one that caused 2,000 deaths in 1999 and another that caused 117 deaths with widespread damage in 2016.

Disaster Preparedness:

• Follow the guidance of local authorities in the event of a disaster. See the National Fire Agency’s page for information on “ Disaster Responses .”
• See the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website  on how to prepare for an emergency.  
• See also the Crisis and  Disaster  Abroad page of the Bureau of Consular Affairs website.
• When an emergency arises, we will post up-to-date instructions specific to the circumstances of the event on our  website  and send messages to U.S. citizens who have registered through the Department of State’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .

Crime:  There is minimal street crime in Taiwan, and violent crime is rare. Take normal safety precautions, such as avoiding travel after dark or in deserted/unfamiliar areas.  

See the U.S. Department of State's  and the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)’s pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should contact the American Institute in Taiwan for assistance at +886-2-2162 2000. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should also seek medical attention and report to the police as soon as possible for help.

• Dial 113 to reach the Taipei Center for the Prevention of Domestic violence and Sexual Assault.
• Dial 110 to report crimes to the local police.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See the U.S. Department of State’s website on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas , as well as AIT’s webpage for  local resources .

• assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• assist you with emergency needs that arise from the crime, such as finding shelter, food, or clothing.
• provide information to facilitate access to appropriate medical care.
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• provide a list of local attorneys.
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States .
• explain financial assistance options, such as assistance available to return to the United States.
• replace a lost or stolen passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should call 113 for emergency assistance and dial 110 for an island-wide toll-free hotline. Dial 113 to reach the Taipei Center for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may also contact the American Institute in Taiwan for assistance at +886-2-2162 2000.

Domestic violence is considered a crime in Taiwan. Report to police and keep written records of all incidents. Preserve evidence such as medical records documenting injuries, photos of injuries, police records, and damaged clothing and weapons used against you. If you have a court-issued restraining order, present this to the police for use in the arrest of the offender.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

Some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. See  crimes against minors abroad  and the  U.S. Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison authorities to notify the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) immediately. 

• The American Institute can provide a list of English-speaking lawyers .  
• Taiwan authorities typically do not permit foreigners accused of crimes to leave Taiwan while legal proceedings are ongoing. 
• Penalties for illegal drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, with long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Taiwan also has the death penalty for certain violent crimes and drug offenses.  
• See the U.S. Department of State’s  webpage  for further information. 

Labor Disputes:

• Avoid labor disputes by establishing all terms and conditions of employment or sponsorship in the labor contract at the beginning of your employment.
• If the dispute cannot be resolved directly with your employer, the American Institute can provide  a list of English-speaking lawyers .

Customs Regulations:  Taiwan has strict regulations on importing/exporting firearms, antiquities, medications, currency, and ivory. Contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States for specific information  regarding customs requirements . See also  customs regulations .

Dual Nationality and Compulsory Military Service:  Taiwan has compulsory military service for Taiwan males between the ages of 18 and 36.  This includes dual U.S.-Taiwan citizens who enter Taiwan on their U.S. passports . Before you travel, contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States to determine your military service status. 

Faith-Based Travelers:   See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Reports
• Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Health Screening Process:  To detect and prevent the spread of diseases, Taiwan scans the body temperature of all arriving passengers with an infrared thermal apparatus. Symptomatic passengers are required to fill out a form and may need to give an onsite specimen or see local health authorities. See also the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website .

Judicial Assistance:  Authorities on Taiwan provide judicial assistance in response to letters rogatory from foreign courts in accordance with Taiwan's "Law Governing Extension of Assistance to Foreign Courts." For further information, please go to the  American Institute in Taiwan (AIT)’s website .

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) rights events in Taiwan. Taiwan law prohibits education and employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. On May 24, 2019, Taiwan legalized same sex marriages upon registration with a local household registration office in Taiwan. Same sex marriages from other countries are recognized in Taiwan. LGBTQI+ individuals may still face lack of tolerance, particularly in areas outside the capital and largest city Taipei. See  Section 6 of our Human Rights Practices in the Human Rights Report for Taiwan  and read our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page .

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Taiwan law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities and sets minimum fines for violations. By law, new public buildings, facilities, and transportation equipment must be accessible to persons with disabilities. See  Persons with Disabilities in the Human Rights Report for Taiwan (2022) .

Students: See our  U.S. Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: If you are a woman traveling abroad, please review our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Taiwan has modern medical facilities, with state-of-the-art equipment available at many hospitals and clinics. Physicians are well trained, and many have studied in the United States and speak English. Hospital nursing services provide medication and wound care but generally do not provide the daily patient care functions found in U.S. hospitals. Taiwan requires masks in healthcare facilities and ambulances to prevent the spread of diseases, including COVID-19.

For emergency services in Taiwan, dial 119.

Ambulance services are

• widely available;
• have emergency equipment and supplies;
• and are staffed by trained medical personnel.

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Taiwan hospitals and doctors do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare to ensure the medication is legal in Taiwan.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all routine vaccinations recommended by the U.S. CDC . Vaccinations are available at all major Taiwan hospitals.

Dengue Fever:  In recent years, Taiwan has seen cases of dengue fever, a virus common in subtropical regions that is spread through mosquito bites. There is currently no vaccine or medicine to prevent dengue. Travelers can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. For information on how to reduce the risk of contracting dengue, please visit  the U.S. CDC website .

COVID-19: Major Taiwan healthcare facilities have COVID-19 testing capabilities and can administer FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The American Institute in Taiwan does not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

For further health information :

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions, lighting, and traffic safety in cities and on major highways are generally good. Roads in major cities are generally congested. Be alert for the many scooters and motorcycles that weave in and out of traffic. Motor scooters are common throughout the island. Be alert for scooters when stepping out of public buses or exiting a car. Exercise caution when crossing streets because many drivers do not respect the pedestrian's right of way. Be especially cautious when driving on mountain roads, which are typically narrow, winding, and poorly banked, and which may be impassable after heavy rains. For example, Taiwan’s central cross-island highway is meandering and often has poor visibility. Exercise caution when driving on highways.

Please see AIT’s website for more details on  Driving in Taiwan .

Traffic Laws:  Passengers in all vehicles, including taxis, are required by law to wear seatbelts. When exiting a vehicle, you are legally required to ensure that no motor scooter, bicycle, or other vehicle is approaching from behind before opening the door. You will be fully liable for any injuries or damages if you fail to do so. Do not turn right on a red traffic signal. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free kit in Taiwan. The legal limit for alcohol in the bloodstream of drivers in Taiwan is 15 mg per 100 ml of blood (0.03% BAC). This limit is strictly enforced. It is useful to have proof of car insurance and proof of ownership of the vehicle. On-the-spot fines are very common for minor traffic offences in Taiwan and are fixed for each offense. You will be told where to pay the fines and within what period of time. For more serious driving offenses, you will receive a court appearance.

Standard international driving laws apply with a few exceptions:

• You must have a warning triangle in your car to use if you break down or are involved in an accident.
• You cannot turn on a red light unless indicated.
• Many drivers run red lights, especially just after they change.

In an emergency:

• If you have a problem with your car, call the number on the rental documents or attached to the windscreen of your car.
• In the event of an accident, you should call the police “110” and medical assistance “119.” Provide the police with all the important information including the type of accident, details of vehicles involved and if there are any injuries or fatalities. The second call you should make is to your insurance company.
• You will need a police report for your insurance company. While waiting for the police, take photographs of the scene and take the names, addresses and telephone numbers of any witnesses. Do not move the vehicles unless it is necessary for safety reasons.
• Police will not ask for bribes.
• Police will ask parties involved in the traffic accident to do an alcohol test. This is standard operating procedure.
• If riding a motor scooter, you must wear a helmet.

For specific information concerning Taiwan’s driver’s permits, vehicle inspection road tax, and mandatory insurance, contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation is cheap, convenient, and generally safe. Uber is widely available for use. Taxis and buses may swerve to the side of the road to pick up passengers with little notice or regard for other vehicles.

Please refer to our  Road Safety  page for more information. Refer also to Taiwan’s  Road Traffic Safety Portal .

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed Taiwan’s Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Taiwan's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Taiwan should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI) web portal. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website , and the U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Navigational Warnings website .

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• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Taiwan . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Wed, May 01, 2024 page13

Tainan’s speakeasy cocktail bars, taiwan’s food capital is best known for its culinary delights, but join us on a bar crawl of the city’s secret drinking holes that are shaking up the scene.

• By Hollie Younger / Contributing reporter

When picturing Tainan, what typically comes to mind is charming alleyways, Japanese architecture and world-class cuisine. But look beyond the fray, through stained glass windows and sliding bookcases, and there exists a thriving speakeasy subculture, where innovative mixologists ply their trade, serving exquisite concoctions and unique flavor profiles to rival any city in Taiwan.

Speakeasies hail from the prohibition era of 1920s America. When alcohol was outlawed, people took their business to hidden establishments; requiring patrons to use hushed tones — speak easy — to conceal their illegal activities.

Nowadays legal, speakeasy bars are simply hidden bars, often found behind bookcases or secret doors that retain that old-school cool, bluesy jazz vibes of the roaring 20s. Consider the modern speakeasy as a game of hide-and-seek, an “insider secret” that needs to be discovered. Expect to pay a little extra for premium ingredients and service but the experience drinking in a clandestine waterhole is worth a few extra dollars.

The facade of Chikan Pharmacy, hidden in an alleyway opposite the ancient entrance to Chikan Temple.

Photo courtesy of Hollie Younger

CRAWLING TAINAN

Hordes of tourists pouring into Chikan Temple every day remain unawares that just opposite, tucked down a conspicuous side alley, lies Chikan Pharmacy (赤崁中藥行).

Opened in 2020, its owner took inspiration from the speakeasies of New York and Hong Kong and added a Taiwanese twist, showcasing the lost art of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Their cocktail menu leans towards the medicinal, herbal and even slightly bitter, with a strong focus on gin.

A Chikan Pharmacy cocktail featuring rum, pomelo and cherry tomato.

Photo courtesy of Hollie Younger Warning: Excessive consumption of alcohol can damage your health.

On the sweeter side, we recommend Straw (NT$400) a complex blend of gin, tea and spices topped with whipped cream, or test your palette with The Jerry Springer Show (NT$400). The combination of curry spices, rum and Earl Grey packs a punch as strong as its namesake’s TV guests. This venue is jam-packed until the early hours, so reservations are recommended in advance.

Once our appetite is sufficiently wet, we head to our second location, Speakeasy Bar (民生大戲院), arguably the best of Tainan’s speakeasies. Fantastic drinks, Instagram-worthy presentations and a quirky, classically speakeasy entrance. If you visit just one bar, make it this one. The facade looks like an old-school movie theatre, with billboards and posters. We approach and, seeing no other entrances, push the elevator button. Steeping out to check which floor we’re heading to we find the opposite panel of the elevator slides away to reveal the low lighting of a lively cocktail bar. Bingo!

A vintage cinema theme is retained throughout, with a cult film classics playing via a projector at the back of the bar. The has no menu so there can be no recommendations: staff will simply ask if you prefer sweet, sour, bitter — or, you can point to one of the fanciful creations being enjoyed by your fellow patrons with a casual “I’ll take what they’re having.”

Straw, a cocktail available at Chikan Pharmacy, contains gin, plum wine and pu’er tea, topped with whipped cream and star anise.

Photos courtesy of Hollie Younger Warning: Excessive consumption of alcohol can damage your health.

Genie lamps, ornate vases, hip flasks hidden in bibles — the experience is reminiscent of an antique store that ran out of glasses. Smoke cascades from the nostrils of the black clay dragon which dispenses a cocktail into the awaiting teapot below. Everything bubbles and steams; these guys love dry ice and they’re not afraid to use it.

Expect to pay around NT$400 per cocktail.

GREAT NIGHTCAP

A sake and plum wine-based cocktail served in a genie lamp by the bartenders at cinema-themed Speakeasy Bar in Tainan.

To wrap up the night, we head to our final and most unassuming speakeasy, Eureka (發現酒吧). Wall walking around a parking lot on a residential street, we begin to question the location provided by Google Maps. But on an otherwise bare wall to our right is a stand-alone bookshelf, mysteriously lit from above. Slide it to the side and “Eureka!” the bar is revealed.

This spot features a masterfully crafted menu and a more relaxed vibe: jazz music plays, and the bartenders have time to stop and socialize with customers.

Saving the best for last, our favorite cocktail of the night was the Thatch Under Tree (NT$350). Made from rum shaken with coconut water, passionfruit, marigold and the star ingredient, lemongrass it was subtle, herbaceous and easy to drink.

Word on the street is, speakeasies are popping up all over Tainan, so keep your eyes peeled but your lips sealed — one could be right under your nose.

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The red flags that will tell us when China's actually ready to invade Taiwan

• A host of warning signs point to China preparing for military action against Taiwan.
• Experts say China could be readying for a showdown over the island.
• US involvement, and Chinese leader Xi's goals, also factor into the timeline.

Tensions between China and Taiwan are reaching a boiling point, and many signs point to Chinese military action to seize the island by force, possibly in just a few years.

While a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would be an incredibly complex and dangerous operation, influential China watchers are sounding the alarms over preparations almost certainly needed to seize the island — a buildup of China's naval forces, energy and food stockpiles, and large-scale military drills just off its coast.

"I don't think they lack for anything that they need," Lyle Goldstein, director of Asia engagement at Defense Priorities, said of China's forces. "You could always ask the question, 'Could they be more ready?' and I suppose there are some certain areas, but I, for a long time, maintained they have what they need to undertake the campaign."

What China needs for an all-out attack

China has pushed a rapid modernization of its armed forces over the past two decades that has alarmed US military officials and opened China leader Xi Jinping's options for how to reunify Taiwan, the democratic island of 24 million that Beijing views as a breakaway. China's navy, for example, has surpassed the size of the US fleet and its shipbuilding capacity is easily the largest in the world.

But there are questions around the quality of China's warships despite the sheer numbers, and whether it has the capacity for an amphibious assault against Taiwan's advanced weapons.

Taiwan's Ministry of Defense assessed in 2021 that China "lacks the landing vehicles and logistics required to launch an incursion into Taiwan." The US Department of Defense largely concurred , and the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission wrote something similar in its 2020 report, noting that while China had a "shortage of amphibious lift, or ships and aircraft capable of transporting troops the [Chinese military] needs to successfully subjugate the island," the PLA was looking into using civilian vessels to supplement that.

Chinese ships and aircraft that try to invade or blockade the island into submission would be highly vulnerable to Taiwan's arsenal of advanced weapons like F-16 fighter jets, Patriot missile batteries, and Harpoon anti-ship missiles. The question is whether China has built an invasion force that can sustain the damage from these weapons in what would be the first amphibious invasion in seven decades.

Others have seen signs that China is corralling the civilian shipping needed to meet the heavy material needs of an amphibious invasion armada.

Thomas Shugart, a former US Navy submarine commander who's now an adjunct senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security think tank, wrote for War on the Rocks in August 2021 that "Chinese leaders have already begun organizing civilian shipping into auxiliary units of the military," highlighting examples of large roll-on/roll-off ferries being employed in amphibious assault exercises, something Chinese media later confirmed, and adding that the civilian vessels were carrying both Marine Corps and ground force units.

While these ferries aren't necessarily designed for landing assault troops, Shugart noted, they are built to carry a large number of people, load ground forces quickly and with little warning, disembark their troops, and return for more; the US military also has fast-transport vessels and cargo ships to support operations.

"The evidence shows that these fleets are all ready to mobilize, really at a moment's notice," Goldstein said. "China has the biggest ports in the world and they're full of these ships, so putting them together into fleets to make this attack would be very quick, within days."

Xi is a year-and-a-half into his third term as China's leader, and many of his recent moves suggest China is preparing for war. Xi successfully consolidated control over Hong Kong in 2020, and may have his eyes on a bigger prize.

In March, China dropped "peaceful reunification" when referring to Taiwan and announced a 7.2% increase in defense spending. Food and energy security, like petroleum reserves, have been stockpiled for years. New laws around civilian mobilization and economic self-reliance indicate Xi is preparing his people and the Chinese economy for the possibility of war. Military forces are being deployed nearer to Taiwan than ever, effectively shortening Taiwan's reaction time. Stockpiling of China's rocket force , too, suggests it would have more than enough missiles and rockets to target Taiwan.

Earlier this month, Mike Studeman, former commander of the Office of Naval Intelligence and director for intelligence for US Indo-Pacific Command, wrote in War on the Rocks: "There is no apparent countdown to D-day for initiating a blockade or invasion, but major strategic indicators clearly show that General Secretary Xi Jinping is still preparing his country for a showdown. Developments under way suggest Taiwan will face an existential crisis in single-digit years, most likely in the back half of the 2020s or front half of the 2030s."

Some experts assess China would lean into the element of surprise, a core facet in their military doctrine. One common concern is that as China's military exercises around Taiwan have grown in frequency and size, the line between exercise and potential attack is becoming blurred. "The bad news" with such a scenario, Dean Cheng, a senior advisor to the China program at the US Institute of Peace, said, "is they go to war with what they have on hand, because they probably haven't had a chance to deploy more forces forward, stock up munitions, get everything loaded and ready to go. How important is surprise versus how important is being able to sustain the operation?"

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That ploy resembles the massive Russian build-up on Ukraine's borders prior to the 2022 invasion that officials had claimed was for field exercises.

Goldstein's estimate is that while it's still risky, "they have what they need, and they're ready to undertake" an attack. "I don't think we'll have a lot of warning," he added, noting a sudden set of actions that only unfolds over a period of hours would be more likely than many other clearer, long-term signs.

US involvement also factors in. "There is a possibility of American intervention which then goes to the question of how well can China conceal its preparations for an invasion?" Cheng said.

A Chinese ring of steel

Experts, as well as US and Taiwan lawmakers and military officials, have long debated about the readiness of the People's Liberation Army as China's military is known.

"The PLA's modernization plan, we think, is still on track, and is aimed at a 2027 period," Cheng explained, with goals of being a fully modernized fighting force by then.

Before then, there's a higher risk that an assault attempt would fail or shatter Beijing's forces. "The PLA isn't going to make the call, however, about whether to invade Taiwan, that's going to be up to Chinese leadership, Xi in particular, and the rest of the Politburo Standing Committee," top leadership in the CCP, Cheng said.

China has indicated it will use force if necessary, but a full-scale invasion likely has dire consequences for China. Other actions — such as an air and maritime blockade, as noted in DoD's China report , limited force campaigns, air and missile campaigns, and seizure of Taiwan's smaller occupied islands — could be preferable, and China boats much of those capabilities already.

A blockade, for example, would give the US and its allies more time to respond than a sudden, bolt-from-the-blue surprise attack. "It's less risky in the sense that you're not going to have necessarily thousands killed, but you're giving Taiwan and the Americans time to organize a response," Cheng said.

There's also precedent at play: The US blockaded Cuba after it detected a deployment of Soviet nuclear missiles to the island in 1962 in what would become the Cold War's most dangerous crisis.

US involvement in defending Taiwan from China is a major unknown. A war game analysis from the Center for Strategic and International Studies from January 2023 reported that in most of the 24 runs, the US, Taiwan, and Japan defeated a conventional amphibious invasion by China, but suffered heavy and severe losses.

But with all of this comes the consideration that Xi's biggest priority is to reunify with Taiwan. As US Army Maj. Kyle Amonson and retired US Coast Guard Capt. Dane Egli wrote in 2023, much of when Xi decides to invade Taiwan comes down to how he wants to maintain his legacy in the Chinese Communist Party and Chinese society, as well as what accomplishing such a feat would do for him.

Scene for a showdown

Cross-Strait relations have soured in recent years, especially with the Democratic Progressive Party in power since 2016, raising worries that military action for reunification is more likely and other options, such as diplomacy, aren't. The worst case scenario is a full-scale invasion , which would unleash all-out war and potentially trigger responses from the US, Japan, the Philippines, and others.

In the late 2000s and early 2010s, Beijing's economy was booming, Taiwanese students were traveling to the mainland for school work, and Chinese leadership likely believed Taiwan would eventually accept reunification.

"But the state of the economy and society, and the Chinese crackdown on Hong Kong, as well as other elements such as American actions, led Beijing to think time is no longer on their side," Cheng said. "Tensions are definitely higher now, but where I would draw the line is that it doesn't necessarily mean Beijing is about to launch an invasion."

Goldstein said that in tracking Chinese media closely, calls for reunification are more frequent and heated. "I am concerned that China may see some reason to go earlier rather than later," he explained.

Xi himself told US President Joe Biden in late 2023, "Look, peace is… all well and good, but at some point we need to move towards resolution."

Watch: China shows how it would attack Taiwan as tensions rise

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Taiwan says new Chinese air routes threaten Taiwanese islands' flight safety

• Medium Text

• China opens new air routes running close to Taiwanese islands
• Taiwan decries move as flight safety risk
• Routes are near Taiwan-controlled Kinmen and Matsu islands
• China says flight paths to improve flight operations

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

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Irish police start to dismantle Dublin's migrant ‘tent city’

Irish police started dismantling about 200 tents housing asylum seekers in Dublin early on Wednesday, tackling what has become a focal point for heated debate around migration.

China to resume Taiwan-bound travel for Fujian Province residents

China said it will resume Taiwan-bound travel for residents of Fujian Province in the country's southeast during a meeting on Sunday with the island's opposition lawmakers.

Rao Quan, China's vice culture and tourism minister, made the remarks to Nationalist Party legislators when they met ahead of the May 20 inauguration of President-elect Lai Ching-te, whom Beijing views as a separatist.

The vice minister said Beijing will first restart the travel of Fujian residents to Matsu, a remote group of Taiwan islands, and then allow group tours to other parts of the self-ruled territory after resuming ferry services between Pingtan County of Fujian and Taiwan.

He also told the group led by veteran opposition lawmaker Fu Kun-chi that Beijing welcomes Taiwan compatriots to visit the mainland for sightseeing and to see the development and changes there, according to the Chinese ministry.

The mainland has banned individual Chinese tourists, including Fujian residents, from traveling to Taiwan since August 2019 amid a deterioration of cross-strait ties under the rule of the island's government led by the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party starting in 2016.

China's General Administration of Customs also said Sunday it will approve the import of pomelo and other agriculture and fishery products from Taiwan, given that they meet the mainland's quarantine requirements, the official Xinhua News Agency said.

The decision came as Zhao Zenglian, deputy chief of the customs authority, met with the 17-member delegation of the Taiwan opposition party, also known as Kuomintang (KMT).

Fu expressed hope that products from all industries in Taiwan, especially high-quality agriculture and fishery products, can be successfully marketed to the mainland, Xinhua added.

Beijing, which views Taiwan as part of its territory, has treated the KMT favorably while rejecting talks with the DPP government and denouncing Lai as an independence advocate. In the island's parliament, the opposition party now has the largest number of seats.

On Saturday, the legislators held talks with Wang Huning, who is ranked No. 4 in the ruling Chinese Communist Party's top leadership. In early April, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with former Taiwanese leader Ma Ying-jeou of the KMT in Beijing.

Communist-led China and Taiwan have been governed separately since they split in 1949 due to a civil war, with the then-ruling KMT government retreating to Taiwan.

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