visit japan from taiwan

Japan Tours from Taiwan

Group tours to japan from taiwan.

Travel to Japan from Taiwan

Most frequently asked questions.

•  What are the popular routes from Songshan Airport to Japan? Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) has many airlines offering flights to Japan. China Airlines (CI) and EVA Air (BR) have 14 flights per week from Taiwan to Tokyo Haneda. All Nippon Airways (NH) and Japan Airlines (JL) also have 14 flights per week from Taiwan to Tokyo Haneda.
•  How many flights are there from Kaohsiung Airport to Tokyo and Osaka? Departing from Kaohsiung Airport, China Airlines (CI) has 7 flights to Tokyo and 11 flights to Osaka every week. Tigerair Taiwan has 5 flights to Tokyo and 2 flights to Osaka every week. Moreover, travelers have many other options offered by EVA Air (BR), Japan Airlines (JL), and Peach Aviation (MM).
•  How many flights are there from Songshan Airport to Tokyo? Departing from Songshan Airport (TSA), China Airlines (CI) and EVA Air (BR) have 14 flights per week from Taiwan to Tokyo Haneda. All Nippon Airways (NH) and Japan Airlines (JL) also have 14 flights per week from Taiwan to Tokyo Haneda.
•  Which airline has direct flight from Taiwan to Sapporo? Both China Airlines (CI) and EVA Air(BR) has direct flights to Sapporo. China Airlines (CI) offers 5 flights per week to Sapporo.
•  Do your company have cooperative travel agency in Taiwan? Yes. We have cooperative travel agency in Taiwan, if you want to place an order, please contact our customer service center directly, or contact our partner in Taipei.
• Tel: +81 50-3701-6391
• Email: [email protected]
• Working Hours: 8am-7pm, (Japan)
• Tel: +1-6265617117
• Working Hours: 8am-7pm, Pacific Time

• Application
• Requirements

Japanese Online Visa for Taiwanese Citizens

Japan has launched an electronic visa for foreigner visitors. Eligible nationalities can apply for the Japan eVisa , which is a completely online service .

The new visa policy makes entry into Japan easier for many travelers, including those from Taiwan.

The following page explains the visa requirements for Taiwanese travelers visiting Japan, including how to apply online for the digital visa.

Do Taiwanese Nationals Need an Online Visa to Enter Japan?

Yes, all overseas arrivals must have an approved visa to enter Japan. All visa exemptions have been suspended in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning a visa is mandatory for all nationalities.

Fortunately, Taiwanese citizens can apply for the Japan online visa , along with US and Canadian citizens. This digital system saves having to go in person to a government office, or requesting a visa on arrival.

Read on to understand the different types of visas available to Taiwanese passport holders planning a trip to Japan.

Japanese Tourist Visa Types for Taiwanese Citizens

The Japan eVisa is valid for a number of purposes. Visitors from Taiwan can use the travel permit to visit Japan for any of the following reasons:

• Tourism : international tourists must be traveling as part of an organized tour
• Business : visitors must have an inviting Japanese company
• Visiting relatives : travelers need an invitation letter and proof of kinship

Each Japan online visa is valid for a single-entry trip to Japan, with a maximum stay of 90 days .

Japan eVisa Requirements for Taiwanese Passport Holders

Taiwanese nationals must meet the Japan eVisa requirements before starting the application process. All travelers must have the following documents:

• Taiwanese passport : valid for at least 6 months
• Photo of applicant : passport-sized and taken recently
• Debit or credit card : valid for online payment
• Email address : active and checked regularly

Applicants must also provide additional documents . The requirements for these depend on the reason for travel.

Tourism and business required documents

Visitors from Taiwan who plan to enter Japan for tourism or business purposes must have a certificate of registration to the ERFS (Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System).

This document is obtained by the traveler’s receiving organization, which will be either a tour company or a business .

Necessary documents for visiting family

Taiwanese citizens who wish to visit family in Japan must have a letter of invitation from a relative , and proof of kinship . Proof can be in the form of an official document, such as a birth or marriage certificate.

Online Application for the Japanese eVisa from Taiwan

Applicants from Taiwan can request a Japan eVisa is 3 simple steps :

• Complete the online form and upload supporting documents
• Pay the eVisa processing fee
• Receive the approved visa by email

The whole process is online . All that’s needed is an electronic device, such as a tablet or smartphone, with a stable internet connection.

The Japan eVisa application form is quick and easy to complete . Only basic information is required, relating to the passenger and their travel plans.

Travel to Japan from Taiwan with an eVisa

The Japan electronic visa makes entry into Japan more convenient for Taiwanese travelers. All visitors need to do is present their passport and a copy of their visa at immigration, and the border officer will confirm they have permission to enter.

Most visitors from Taiwan choose to travel to Japan by plane. There are direct flights to Tokyo and Osaka from the following Taiwanese airports:

• T’ai-chung-shih

Indirect flights also operate from other airports, including Kinmen and Tainan .

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Highlights of Taiwan and Japan     View Tours

Japan Deluxe Tours

Visit the must see sites of japan with group sizes ranging from 12 to 35 people..

These tours are great for first time visitors to Japan looking for comfortable accommodation with all entrance fees and most meals included. Our Japan Deluxe Tours are accomodated with professional tour guides, fluent in both Japanese and English, to ensure an educational and valuable visit. Air-conditoned, private coaches are also included, so you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free time in Japan. Our tours range from 7 to 21 days, to various regions of Japan.

Deluxe-Plus Small Group Tours

Experience the culture of japan at a slower pace with groups of 10 to 18 people. (smaller group departure available).

These tours combine enrichment, enjoyment, and education with time to truly absorb and appreciate your surroundings. Our Deluxe-Plus small group tours are created to cater to those who are interested in having a deeper understanding of Japan's culture. You will have the opportunity to participate in culturally rich activities and visit destinations only locals may know. Experience luxurious hotels and travel at a leisurely pace when you book a Deluxe-Plus small group tour.

Budget Group Tours

Our budget tours are designed for our guests who are on a limited budget..

Explore the must-see sights and enjoy the hassle-free trip to Japan at an affordable price. Our most cost-effective way to see the highlights of Japan while staying in budget-friendly accommodations. If you would like to have a quick stop to sample the must-see sights of Japan, or plan to explore Japan on your own but would like to take a short trip to learn about Japan before your self-guided journeys. These are the tours for you.

Active Small Group Tours

Travel japan more flexibly in groups of 6 to 13 people using public transportation..

Explore Japan off the beaten path via Japanese public transportation, walking, hiking, cycling and more. Take more time to enjoy local experiences and picturesque landscape. Our Active Small Group Tours combine the best of cultural destinations with off-the-beaten-path via Japanese public transportation, Discover the country of Japan the way the locals do and see Japan from a different angle. A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, see the diversity of Japan’s countryside unfold before your eyes.

Group Tour | Deluxe Style

Highlights of taiwan and japan.

Taiwan (Taroko National Park - Sun Moon Lake - Fenqihu - Alishan National Forest - Taichung - Taipei) Japan (Nara - Kyoto - Hakone - Mt Fuji - Tokyo)

Departure Months:

Taiwan and Japan are two of the top travel destinations in Asia, and our multi-country tours highlight the unique appeal of each amazing island. Experience mountainous landscape rich with breathtaking scenes of rivers, trees, lakes, and coastlines, and discover those one-of-a-kind natural wonders that bring inspiration to artists and adventurous dreams to wandering hikers. No tour would be complete without delving into the history and culture of these time-honored destinations, and our iti... View More

Taiwan and Japan are two of the top travel destinations in Asia, and our multi-country tours highlight the unique appeal of each amazing island. Experience mountainous landscape rich with breathtaking scenes of rivers, trees, lakes, and coastlines, and discover those one-of-a-kind natural wonders that bring inspiration to artists and adventurous dreams to wandering hikers. No tour would be complete without delving into the history and culture of these time-honored destinations, and our itineraries bring our guests to both traditional must-sees and hidden local gems of both Taiwan and Japan. Explore the gorgeous island of Taiwan and get immersed in its local blend of cultural traditions - mostly Chinese with a dash of local Taiwanese flair. Depart from Taipei into the glorious Taiwan countryside, starting off with one of its most splendid sights: Taroko National Park. The park is home to Taroko Gorge - a natural wonder of Taiwan lined in white marble and called "the Grand Canyon of Taiwan". Then we travel through Hualien to Sun Moon Lake. The stunning mountains and forests surrounding Taiwan's most refreshing nature getaway make for excellent scenery, and our guests take in the best views from a sightseeing boat touring the lake. Then we partake in a wonderful tea tour of Maolanshan Tea Plantation, enjoying the refreshing local tea brand while strolling beside the beautiful fields. From there, we move toward the celebrated forests of Alishan, enjoying an easy hike through the woodland scenery before taking the Alishan Scenic Railway for unforgettable views of the mountains from the train. Finally, we reach the city of Taichung - one of the centers for local Taiwan culture, where we tour the top sights of the city, including Wufeng Lin Family Mansion and Garden, Rainbow Village, and Taichung National Theater, Gao-mei Wetlands, and Fengjia Night Market. We wrap up the Taiwan portion with a day tour of Taipei, with our guests enjoying access to the Chiang Kai-Shek National Monument, National Palace Museum, and the shopping mall inside Taipei 101 - lined with high-class stores and restaurants. Continue from there to Japan, and our most popular route through the Land of the Rising Sun, landing in the city of Osaka. Discover the UNESCO Heritage temples of Nara and Kyoto, including Nara's Todaiji Temple - home to a friendly herd of over a hundred cute Sika deer. In Kyoto, view the shining phoenix of the Golden Pavilion and Kiyomizu Temple's dramatic veranda, plus get immersed in traditional Japanese refinement in a Green Tea Ceremony conducted by a Maiko. Travel through Koka to the Hakone region for a ride on the Hakone Ropeway to the Owakudani hot springs, and if the weather is favorable, splendid views of shapely Mount Fuji. Finally, we make our way to the capital city of Tokyo, with a day tour that includes Asakusa Sensoji Temple's "Gate of Thunder", gorgeous Ueno Park, the Imperial Palace, and Tokyo Tower. Our Taiwan and Japan Tour has departures in the spring, summer, and autumn seasons, perfectly timed to take full advantage of both countries' seasonal beauty. Browse our detailed itineraries for more information.

Tour Highlights

• Admire the exquisite beauty of Taiwan’s Taroko Gorge, a gorgeous marble gorge known as “the Grand Canyon of Taiwan”.
• Cruise around tranquil Sun Moon Lake, viewing some of Taiwan’s most gorgeous nature views.
• Roam artsy Rainbow Village – the project of a retired veteran who painted his community in eye-popping designs.
• Discover the National Palace Museum in Taipei, home to over 8,000 years of Chinese history and culture.
• Explore the UNESCO Heritage Temples of Kyoto and Nara, which reflect over a thousand years of Japanese classical culture.
• Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese refinement as you partake in a Green Tea Ceremony, hosted by an apprentice geisha.
• Enjoy learning to prepare authentic Japanese sushi, taught by a professional sushi chef in Tokyo.
• View the incredible cityscape panorama of Tokyo from the observation deck of Tokyo Tower.

Spring (Mar - May)   (119)

Summer (Jun - Aug)   (48)

Autumn (Sep - Nov)   (95)

Winter (Dec - Feb)   (21)

May 2024   (1)

June 2024   (1)

October 2024   (1)

March 2025   (1)

April 2025   (1)

May 2025   (1)

June 2025   (1)

October 2025   (1)

March 2026   (2)

May 2026   (1)

June 2026   (1)

October 2026   (1)

Deluxe   (222)

Deluxe-Plus   (21)

Ultra-Deluxe   (9)

Classic Tour   (31)

Cherry Blossoms   (73)

Autumn Leaves   (41)

Festival   (69)

Special Interest   (94)

less than 9 nights   (100)

9-14 nights   (158)

15 nights +   (25)

Hokkaido   (49)

Tohoku   (26)

Kanto   (238)

Chubu   (237)

Kansai   (238)

Chugoku   (110)

Shikoku   (96)

Kyushu   (32)

Okinawa   (0)

Kyoto Aoi Festival   (9)

Kawazu Cherry Blossoms   (4)

Lavenders   (11)

Snow Monkeys   (52)

Shirakawago   (85)

Gion Summer Festival   (4)

Awa Odori Dance Festival   (4)

Sapporo Snow Festival   (5)

Otaru Snow Light Path   (1)

Ice Breaker Cruise   (5)

Wakasagi Smelt Fishing   (5)

Shiretoko Nature Cruise   (8)

Blue Pond   (14)

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest   (197)

Miho Museum   (109)

Ise Grand Shrine   (4)

Kumano   (6)

Koyasan   (20)

Himeji Castle   (98)

Kurashiki Canal Area   (99)

Miyajima Island   (106)

Shimanami Kaido   (88)

Takeda Castle   (2)

Motonosumi-Inari Shrine   (2)

Adachi Museum of Art   (6)

Naoshima Island   (12)

Tottori Sand Dunes   (2)

Kyoto Cuisine with Maiko   (35)

Shikoku Pilgrimage Route   (4)

Takachiho   (28)

Baby Blue Eyes Flowers   (7)

Wisteria   (11)

Takayama Festivals   (16)

Shibazakura Festivals   (10)

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals   (3)

Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko   (163)

Sushi-Making   (196)

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route   (6)

Group Tour | Deluxe           Book Now & Save $100

Group Tour | Deluxe     Book Now & Save $100

13 Days 12 Nights | from US $4498.00

Taiwan (Taroko National Park / Sun Moon Lake / Fenqihu / Alishan National Forest / Taichung / Taipei), Japan (Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hikone / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo)

Enjoy an unforgettable spring tour to gorgeous taiwan and japan in a professionally crafted itinerary with a balance of incredible must-sees, local culture, and magnificent natural beauty..

Taiwan (Taroko National Park / Sun Moon Lake / Fenqihu / Alishan National Forest / Taichung / Taipei), Japan (Osaka / Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo)

Enjoy the wonderful asian islands of taiwan and japan in a special tour itinerary of summer fun, including breathtaking natural wonders, local immersion, and top historic landmarks of these incredible cultures..

Taiwan (Taroko National Park / Sun Moon Lake / Fenqihu / Alishan National Forest / Taichung / Taipei), Japan (Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo)

Autumn is an excellent time to visit taiwan and japan on a multi-country tour. the natural splendor, fascinating cultures, delicious local cuisine and impressive historic marvels of these two islands await on this once-in-a-lifetime itinerary..

13 Days 12 Nights | from US $4698.00

Witness Taiwan and Japan bloom in the gorgeous cherry blossom season during an itinerary hand-crafted to include natural wonder, historic must-sees, and cultural immersion.

14 Days 13 Nights | from US $4798.00

Taiwan (Taroko National Park / Sun Moon Lake / Fenqihu / Alishan National Forest / Taichung / Taipei), Japan (Osaka / Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hikone / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo)

Enjoy an unforgettable spring tour to taiwan and japan in a professionally crafted itinerary with a balance of incredible must-sees, local culture, and natural beauty, plus a visit to the unique expo 2025 osaka kansai.

Enjoy Taiwan and Japan in a special tour itinerary of summer fun, including natural wonders, local immersion, and top historic landmarks—plus a visit to Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai!

17 Days 16 Nights | from US $6198.00

Taiwan (Taroko National Park / Sun Moon Lake / Fenqihu / Alishan National Forest / Taichung / Taipei), Japan (Osaka / Himeji / Kurashiki / Hiroshima / Shimanami Kaido / Obokekyo Gorge / Kotohira / Takamatsu / Kobe / Nara / Kyoto / Kanazawa / Shirakawa-go / Takayama / Matsumoto / Mt Fuji / Hakone / Tokyo)

Take a special journey into the wonderful islands of taiwan and japan, covered with magnificent cherry blossoms, featuring the beauties of hiroshima and japan's less- traveled southern regions..

Spring Tours (Mar - May)

Summer Tours (Jun - Aug)

Autumn Tours (Sep - Nov)

Winter Tours (Dec - Feb)

Travel Styles

Deluxe-Plus

Ultra-Deluxe

Walking Tour

Cherry Blossom Tours

Autumn Leaves Tours

Festival Tours

Special Interest Tours

Seasonal Attractions

Cherry Blossoms

Takayama Spring Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Shibazakura Festivals

Baby Blue Eyes Flowers

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Gion Summer Festival

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Autumn Leaves

Takayama Autumn Festival

Snow Monkeys

Sapporo Snow Festival

Ice Breaker Cruise

Wakasagi Smelt Fishing

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

Things Not to Miss

Shirakawago

Miho Museum

Naoshima Island

Himeji Castle

Shiretoko Nature Cruise

Sushi-Making Experience

Kyoto Cuisine with Maiko

Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko

Ise Grand Shrine

Most Beautiful Places in Japan

Otaru Snow Light Path

Tottori Sand Dunes

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Miyajima Island

Motonosumi-Inari Shrine

Adachi Museum of Art

Shimanami Kaido

Takeda Castle Ruin

Kurashiki Canal Area

Takachiho Gorge

East Asia Two Weeks Itinerary: South Korea, Taiwan and Japan

East Asia Essentials: Seoul, Busan, Taipei, Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo

An epic 15-day adventure through some of East Asia’s most exciting destinations! Explore the bustling streets of Seoul and Busan, soak up the culture and history of Taipei and Kyoto, experience the futuristic cityscape of Tokyo, and much more! This itinerary will take you on a journey through three diverse and fascinating countries: South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. Get ready to fire up your wanderlust, eat amazing food, and make unforgettable memories on this trip of a lifetime!

Days 1-2: Seoul, South Korea

After your visit to the palace, head to nearby Bukchon Hanok Village , a charming traditional Korean neighborhood filled with hanok (traditional Korean houses). You can wander the streets and admire the architecture, and even try on traditional Korean clothing, called hanbok, for a fun photo opportunity.

In the afternoon, head to Namsan Tower , a landmark tower atop Namsan Mountain reachable by cable car that offers stunning panoramic views of the city, and also several attractions and restaurants to explore.

▽More things to do in Seoul!▽

After shopping, visit the nearby Gwangjang Market , one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Seoul. Be sure to try some Korean street food, such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), kimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes). 

In the evening, dive into one of Seoul’s vibrant neighborhoods for nightlife, such as Hongdae or Gangnam . Hongdae is known for its indie music scene, street performances, and clubs, while Gangnam is known for its upscale bars and clubs.

Days 3-5: Busan, South Korea

In the afternoon, head to Busan Tower , a landmark tower that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. You can take the elevator to the top of the tower to enjoy the view, and there is also a museum and observation deck to explore.

After visiting Gamcheon, go to Beomeosa Temple , a historic Buddhist temple located in the foothills of Geumjeongsan Mountain , which can be accessed by cable car. The temple was first built in the 7th century and has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. You can explore the different halls and buildings, and enjoy the serene surroundings of the temple.

In the afternoon, you can go to one of Busan’s other attractions, such as Jagalchi Fish Market or Gukje Market , to experience the local culture and cuisine. Jagalchi Fish Market is the largest seafood market in South Korea, and you can try fresh seafood at one of the on-site restaurants. Gukje Market is a traditional market with a variety of goods, from clothing to food to electronics. Be sure to try some of the local street food, such as hotteok (sweet pancakes) and ssiat hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with seeds).

Days 6-8: Taipei, Taiwan

After your visit to Taipei 101, head to the nearby Elephant Mountain for a hike and even better views of the city. The hike is moderate in difficulty and takes about 30 minutes to reach the top. Be sure to bring water and wear comfortable shoes.

In the evening, visit Shilin Night Market , one of Taipei’s most famous and lively night markets. You can find a variety of food, from stinky tofu to fried chicken cutlets, as well as games and souvenirs.

After your visit to the memorial hall, head to Longshan Temple , one of Taipei’s oldest and most famous temples. The temple was first built in the 18th century and features a mix of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements. You can explore the different halls and courtyards, and even make a wish at the wishing pond.

In the afternoon, visit the trendy Ximending neighborhood for shopping and entertainment. You can find a variety of shops, from local boutiques to international brands, as well as restaurants and cafes. Be sure to also check out the street performers and live music.

Start your day by visiting the National Palace Museum , one of the largest and most comprehensive museums of Chinese art and artifacts in the world. The museum houses over 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artwork, including paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and jade.

In the afternoon, visit Beitou Hot Springs , a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hot springs are located in a scenic area surrounded by mountains and forests. You can soak in the natural hot springs or visit one of the public or private hot spring spas in the area.

In the evening, visit the Raohe Night Market , another popular and bustling night market in Taipei. You can find a variety of food, from oyster omelets to pork buns, as well as games and souvenirs. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as black pepper buns and Taiwanese-style fried chicken.

Days 9-11: Osaka-Kyoto, Japan

Afterward make your way to Dotonbori , a famous shopping and entertainment district in Osaka. This area is known for its bright neon lights, large billboards, and a wide variety of street food vendors where you can eat to your heart’s content the local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, and shop for souvenirs.

Make sure you visit Umeda Sky Building before sunset, so you can enjoy the stunning views of the city and see the sunset from the observatory deck. You can finish the day at the nearby Hankyu Umeda Station, with an enormous underground shopping center with lots of restaurants and entertainment options. 

For more information about the best things you can do in Osaka, check the following article:

Then, head to Arashiyama , a district on the western outskirts of Kyoto. You can walk through the picturesque bamboo forest, visit the Tenryu-ji temple, and take a boat ride down the Hozu River. The district also has a popular shopping street with local souvenirs and snacks.

In the evening, visit the Gion district to experience Kyoto’s traditional geisha culture. You can stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, and try to catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to a performance.

For more information about what to do around Gion, check the following article:

After your visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, head to Nishiki Market , a long and narrow covered market in central Kyoto. You can find a variety of local foods and goods, including fresh seafood, pickles, and sweets. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as Kyoto-style sushi and matcha-flavored snacks.

In the afternoon, visit the Higashiyama district to see more of Kyoto’s traditional architecture and culture. You can walk through the historic streets, visit the Kiyomizu-dera temple, and enjoy the view from the temple’s wooden balcony.

For more information about what to do in Kyoto, check the following article:

Days 12-14: Tokyo, Japan

After your visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market, go to Ginza , Tokyo’s famous shopping mecca. It’s a chic and upscale district famous for its high-end boutiques, restaurants and department stores. There are also historic landmarks such as the Kabuki-za theater and the Imperial Palace is within walking distance. 

In the evening, visit the Roppongi district, a popular nightlife spot with a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs. You can also visit the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills or the Tokyo Tower for a panoramic view of the city at night.

After your visit to Senso-ji, go to Akihabara , also known as Electric Town, famous for its many electronics shops and anime/manga merchandise stores. You can visit one of the many themed pop-up cafes and explore the different shops for quirky and fun items.

In the evening, visit the Odaiba district, a man-made island in Tokyo Bay with a variety of shopping malls, amusement parks, and museums. You can also enjoy the view of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower from the waterfront.

If the energy allows it, try to go as early as possible, after daybreak, to Meiji Shrine , a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort Empress Shoken. The peaceful surroundings with the sound of the morning prayers will be worth it. The shrine is located in a large forested park, and you can walk through the woods and see the traditional architecture of the shrine buildings.

After your visit to the Meiji Shrine, head to Shibuya , a bustling commercial and entertainment district famous for its Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. You can also visit the Hachiko statue, a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike.

In the evening, visit Shinjuku , another popular entertainment district with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. You can also visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which has observation decks with panoramic views of the city.

For more information about the best things to do in Tokyo, check the following article:

Day 15: Depart from Tokyo, Japan

If you have some time in the morning, you could visit the Tokyo National Museum , which houses a large collection of Japanese art and artifacts or just take a relaxing stroll around Ueno Park . 

After your final activities in Tokyo, make your way to the airport to catch your flight home. Depending on your flight time, you may need to leave for the airport quite early, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Overall, this 15-day itinerary should give you a great overview of some of the best sights and experiences that South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan have to offer. Of course, there are many other great destinations to explore in each country, so if you have more time, be sure to check out some additional places as well!

For more information about traveling around Japan, check out the following articles!

▽Related Articles▽

▼Editor’s Picks▼

Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.

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Highlights of Japan & Taiwan

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Arrive Tokyo (-/-/-)
• Day 2 Tokyo (B/-/-)
• Day 3 Tokyo (B/-/-)
• Day 4 Tokyo - Mount Fuji - Hakone (B/L/-)
• Day 5 Hakone - Kyoto - Nara - Kyoto (B/-/-)
• Day 6 Kyoto (B/L/-)
• Day 7 Kyoto (B/-/-)
• Day 8 Kyoto – Osaka - Taipei (B/-/-)
• Day 9 Taipei - Nantou - Sun Moon Lake (B/-/-)
• Day 10 Sun Moon Lake - Kaohsiung (B/-/-)
• Day 11 Kaohsiung - Kenting - Taitung (B/-/-)
• Day 12 Taitung - East Coast Scenic Area - Hualien (B/-/-)
• Day 13 Hualien - Taroko Gorge - Taipei (B/-/-)
• Day 14 Taipei (B/-/-)
• Day 15 Depart Taipei (B/-/-)

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What's Included

• Accommodation
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Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator MW Tours 4.3
• Rebecca · 3rd April 2024 This was an excellent tour!!! Alan Chou was a fantastic tour guide -- knowledgeable, helpful, friendly, and funny to... Show more
• Jennifer · 1st April 2024 Excellent tour. Great accommodations and sites visited.
• Aditi · 26th March 2024 This was an enjoyable tour with great stops at attractions and wonderful hotels.

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• Sunday 12 May, 2024 Sunday 26 May, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,482 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 19 May, 2024 Sunday 2 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,482 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 26 May, 2024 Sunday 9 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,482 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 2 Jun, 2024 Sunday 16 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,295 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 9 Jun, 2024 Sunday 23 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,295 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 16 Jun, 2024 Sunday 30 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,295 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 23 Jun, 2024 Sunday 7 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,295 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 30 Jun, 2024 Sunday 14 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,295 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 7 Jul, 2024 Sunday 21 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,295 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 14 Jul, 2024 Sunday 28 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,295 Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

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As a traveller from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B.

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Taipei: A Ghibli Getaway for a Budget Break

If you’re staying in Tokyo long enough that you need a holiday, why not use it as a base to explore Asia, starting with Taiwan? Here’s a guide to planning your break from Tokyo to Taipei.

Only three and a half hours from Tokyo with direct flights on budget airlines, Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, ticks all the boxes if you’re looking for an affordable city-break from Japan. Officially the Republic of China, Taiwan is one of Japan’s most popular travel destinations and vice versa.

The area was under Japanese control for around 50 years, and the two cultures are intertwined. While some elements will feel familiar, like teahouses and convenience stores, there are aspects more commonly associated with China and other East Asian countries that seem to pass Japan by—for example, bustling night markets filled with street food and snacks.

Ideal if you only have a few days to explore, Taipei has a great mix of traditional and modern attractions, as well as fantastic day trips to small towns and cat villages. It has amazing transport systems which are really simple to navigate, superb food including plenty of vegetarian options as standard, and more than enough affordable accommodation to house you wherever you want to stay.

Tokyo to Taipei: The basics

• Flight time: 3.5 hours from Tokyo’s Haneda or Narita Airport
• Average flights : ¥ 25,000 return; deals available, see below for more info
• Currency : New Taiwan Dollar (100 yen is approximately 28NT$)
• Public transport : Great! Metro and bus, with the top-up EasyCard available to simplify tickets.
• Accommodation : Hotels, hostels and even capsule hotels available for any budget.
• Budget : A great city to explore by foot, with plenty of free sights and low-priced food at night markets. Taipei is easy to see on the cheap.

Taipei city sights

There are a thousand amazing things to do in Taipei, and although we can’t list them all, here are some highlights you simply can’t miss.

Night markets

One of the best things about Taiwan has to be the night markets, something Japan is really missing out on. While there are plenty to choose from, the two main ones both offer something different: Shilin Night Market is largely indoors, while Raohe Night Market is a bustling outdoor affair. Shilin is known for its unique food, with many popular vendors sought out for their special dishes. Ciyou Temple is right next to the entrance to Raohe Market, making it easy to spot, and although it is only around 600m long, there’s enough food to keep you full for days.

If you’re in town on limited time, the Tonghua Market is closest to Taipei 101, so you can combine your sightseeing. Gongguan Market has a student vibe and is the biggest market in the southern part of Taipei, while the old-fashioned Ningxia Market is small but perfect for a taste of old Taipei, with stalls that have been offering traditional snacks, meals and games for over 50 years.

Maokong Mountain

Once the biggest tea-growing area of Taipei, Maokong is a stunning spot to enjoy a cuppa and look out over the city. Although it is a small village atop a mountain, it’s easily accessed by a gondola if you don’t fancy a hike, and some of the cars even have glass floors. When you arrive, there are more teahouses than you could hope to choose from, with food stalls and restaurants too. Opt for one with a terrace for views across Taipei, and try the local variety of teas before exploring Sanxuan Temple and the Tea Promotion Center (although it doesn’t have much English).

Access:  Ride the Brown Line to Taipei Zoo Station and then catch the Gondola from there—it can be paid for using the EasyCard, but also has ticket machines at the station.

Ximending Shopping District: Taipei’s Harajuku

For all your shopping needs, you can venture into the incredibly bright neighborhood of Ximending, known as the Harajuku of Taipei. With countless stalls, stores and bargains with everything from fashion to food, there’s everything you need and plenty more you don’t. This was the first part of Taipei to be pedestrianized and was founded during the Japanese colonization as a recreation district, and the effects are still visible today.

Access:  You can catch the train to Ximen Station and head for Exit 6—you’ll come out right in the bright lights.

Lin Family Mansion and Gardens

Perfect if you want to relax and admire some traditional Chinese Garden design, the Lin family home and garden dates back to 1846. Surrounded by busy streets, a night market and plenty of shops, the grounds still retain a peaceful air. Some members of the Lin family still live here, despite portions of the property having been donated to the government in 1977, before it was opened to the public a few years later. You can explore the gardens for a small fee, but a tour is necessary if you want to explore the mansion.

Access:  The gardens are in the same district as the Banqiao Nanya Night Market and are a short walk from Fuzhong subway station.

Temple triangle

If it’s temples you’re after, there’s one area that’s famous for them: the historic Wanhua District. Here, you’ll find three stunning temples, all within walking distance and with a few bonus sights nearby. The Longshan (Lungshan) Temple is the most famous in Taipei, built in 1738 as a gathering place for Chinese settlers in what is now Wanhua. It has survived disasters, fires and bombing by Americans after rumors that Japan was using it to store munitions. You can enter the temple for free, and it’s especially vibrant around Chinese New Year.

The Bangka Qingshui Temple is small but beautiful, and the Taipei Tianhou Temple completes the triangle with its beautiful decorative colors and carvings. You can stroll down the Bopiliao Old Street to admire the preserved architecture and explore Huaxi Street Night Market (Snake Alley), both of which are close to Longshan Temple.

Museums and galleries

The city is filled with museums big and small, and although the famous ones draw all the crowds, the unusual ones can sometimes be more exciting. The National Palace Museum and National Taiwan Museum are great places to start for a spot of history and have impressive displays. Alternatively, try the Miniatures Museum of Taipei or the Taiwan Asian Puppet Theater Museum for something a little different. If you like being outdoors, there’s the Huashan 1914 Creative Park or the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park. Taipei is also home to the Yingge Ceramics Museum, Taipei Fine Arts Museum and Museum of Contemporary Art.

Day trips from Taipei

While you can easily spend a day in each of these places, they do combine quite well. One option is to travel to Houtong in the morning by train, before heading back to Ruifang and then going on to Jiufen, as this is best in the late afternoon/evening and has buses straight back to Taipei.

Houtong Cat Village and Jiufen

Whether you look this up in advance or happen to see it on a map and then chase down a cat-themed bus in the streets of Ruifang, it’s the ideal place for cat lovers. Once a prosperous coal-mining town on the Keelung River, Houtong declined along with the coal-mining industry in the 1990s, and the population—which had peaked at 6,000—was reduced to mere hundreds. In 2008, however, volunteers created a cat sanctuary and pictures of it online garnered plenty of attention, so today the area is filled with cats, cafes, craft shops—and cat lovers, of course. There are countless abandoned homes to explore and the scenery is amazing, so it makes for a fantastic adventure with cat-themed pastries as an added bonus. You can catch the bus or train back to Ruifang and then catch the bus on to Jiufen from there.

Jiufen is known as one of the locations which inspired the land of Studio Ghibli’s animated classic Spirited Away. It’s a decommissioned Japanese gold-mining town with awesome food, alleys and more. When Taiwan was under Japanese occupation, the discovery of gold in the area led to a gold rush, but the town was later used as a POW camp during the war. In the 90s, there was a tourist boom, and today the famous A-Mei Teahouse and other local teahouses are among the most popular spots to visit. There are steep cobblestone streets, with market stalls offering traditional snacks and souvenirs.

Access:  You can catch the train from Taipei Station to Ruifang, and then either catch the local train or cat-themed mini-bus to Houtong. Return to Ruifang and catch the 827 or 788 bus to Jiufen. To get back to Taipei, you can catch the 1062 bus, which stops near the Raohe Night Market.

Pingxi and Shifen

Most famous for its annual lantern festival, Pingxi is a popular town with a tradition of lighting lanterns to make a wish and setting them off from the train tracks. Pingxi Old Street is a market area with shops built back in the 30s and 40s still in business today. Nearby is Shifen, which also has an Old Street and is known for the Shifen Waterfall. Many taxi tours are available, which allow you to visit the sights without relying on public transport. A nice route is to take the train to see Shifen, then on to Jingtong to explore—and then you can walk back to Pingxi along the train tracks.

Access:  You can catch the Northbound train from Taipei Station to Ruifang Station and change to the Pingxi Line—one-day tickets are available on this local line and help save some cash if you’re hopping on and off.

Transport in Taipei

Getting around Taipei is really easy, and if you get an EasyCard then it’s even, well … easier. Much like a Suica or Pasmo , this smart card gives you access to buses, metro and gondolas without having to worry about getting the right ticket every time. You can pick one up from machines across the city, including at the airport and convenience stores, and it offers a discount of 20 percent on MRT fares. An EasyCard costs NT$500, with NT$100 going to the deposit and NT$400 to your balance for travel.

The MRT/Metro : Standing for Mass Rapid Transport, the metro is the easiest way to get around the city, and is affordable too. The system runs between 6am and midnight, and has five different lines, differentiated by name and color: Wenhu Line (Brown), Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red), Songshan-Xindian Line (Green) Zhonghe-Xinlu Line (Orange) and the Bannan Line (Blue).

Buses : As the metro is relatively new, buses are still a primary way to travel to the further outreaches of the city, and although they can seem more daunting than the metro, they’re pretty manageable. There are over 300 routes to choose from within the city, as well as long-distance buses to places like Jiufen. With an EasyCard you swipe once—when you get on or off, depending on the symbol shown: a Japanese/Chinese symbol for Up (上) means pay when you get on, the symbol for Down (下) means pay when you get off.

From the airport : Assuming you’ll be landing at Taoyuan International Airport (almost all international flights do), you can get a bus to the city center in 40 minutes. If you purchase your EasyCard here and follow the signs for the bus/coach area, you’ll see customer service desks and boards with destinations and times on your right, with buses departing from lanes on your left.

Accommodation in Taipei

Taipei is full of grand hotels, but has plenty of hostels and even capsule hotels too, so whatever your budget there’s an affordable option. One of the key things to consider is which area you would like to stay in: for example, decide if you prefer the trendy shopping district of Ximending, or to be near the Raohe Night Market in the Songshan District (with direct bus routes to Jiufen nearby). There are also options in the Zhongzheng District to be close to Taipei Station for transport connections, if you have a late arrival or early departure.

One popular option is the We Come Hostel —from ¥ 1,500 per night, including breakfast and located in the Datong District. In the Songshan District, you can stay at the Sleepy Dragon Hostel with beds for just under ¥ 2,000 per night, including a homemade breakfast. Alternatively, there’s the Meander Hostel  (pictured) near the trendy Ximending area, which offers a bunk in a mixed dorm and includes breakfast for around ¥ 1,800 per night, as well as the option for private rooms.

To be as near as possible to the station, try NiHao Taipei , which is only 50 yards from the main station and has dorm beds from ¥ 1,800 per person. For capsule hotels, you can try Bouti City Capsule Hotel  with capsules for around ¥ 2,000 per night, or the futuristic SleepBox Hotel with spaces from ¥ 1,300 per night.

Flights from Tokyo to Taipei: Early mornings and alternative airports

Budget airlines Peach, Scoot, Jetstar, Vanilla Air and Tigerair Taiwan all run the Tokyo to Taipei route. While Vanilla, Scoot and Jetstar depart from Narita , it’s much easier and cheaper to get to Haneda , which is home to Peach and Tigerair. This also gives you more flexibility when it comes to catching earlier and later flights. Keep in mind that budget airlines run in more inconvenient time slots—for example, Tigerair and Peach flights depart Tokyo at 5am and Jetstar often leaves Taipei at 2am, which will save you a night in a hotel, but can make for a long night on airport benches.

Both Tigerair and Peach offer regular deals and promotions, which often include flying from airports other than those in Tokyo. Osaka, Sendai, Okinawa and Okayama have flights to Taiwan from around ¥ 20,000 , which is great if you want to explore some other parts of Japan too.

While we do our best to ensure that all information is correct, prices, routes and other details in this post are subject to change.

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• Which is Cheaper, Taipei or Tokyo? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Taipei or Tokyo?

Should you visit taipei or tokyo, which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Taipei and Tokyo. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Where Should I go: Taipei or Tokyo?

Few cities in the world are full of more diverse opportunities than the cultural crosshairs city of Taipei . As the capital of Taiwan, this 300-year-old city is the financial, cultural and governmental center of Taiwan. Located in the northern part of the island between the Yangming Mountains and Central Mountains, this city of 2.6 million people is always ready to welcome more visitors.

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is by far the most populous city in the world with a staggering 37 million people. As a worldwide hub for technology and business, it hosts millions of visitors annually. But Tokyo is not just a place for business trips. With its incredible mixture of historical temples and shrines, remarkably beautiful parks, endless shopping malls, and genuinely wonderful people, Tokyo is a terrific place to visit and to explore.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Taiwan , The Best Tours for Seniors to Taiwan , The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan , and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan .

Which place is cheaper, Tokyo or Taipei?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Taipei Prices Taiwan Prices Tokyo Prices Japan Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Taipei $ 182 Tokyo $ 157

The average daily cost (per person) in Taipei is $182, while the average daily cost in Tokyo is $157. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Taipei and Tokyo in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Taipei $ 145 Tokyo $ 76
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Taipei $ 290 Tokyo $ 152

Compare Hotels in Taipei and Tokyo

Looking for a hotel in Taipei or Tokyo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Taipei

Hotels in Tokyo

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Taipei $ 10 Tokyo $ 17

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Taipei

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Taipei:

• Easycard $ 2.01
• Easycard $ 9.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taipei

Also for Taipei, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Bruns 9 seater, charter tour, business transfer, airport transfer, round-the-island charter tour: $299
• Modern nine-seater, Taiwan chartered tour, chartered day trip, round-the-island chartered car, airport transfer, hotel pick-up service: $254
• Jiaoxi to Taipei Taoyuan Airport (TPE)- Departure Transfer: $236
• Taipei Taoyuan Airport (TPE) to Jiaoxi - Arrival Private Transfer: $236
• Taipei Taoyuan Airport(TPE)to Tai'an Township-Round-Trip Transfer: $152
• Taipei Taoyuan Airport (TPE) to Beitou - Round-Trip Transfer: $152
• Luxury Chartered Private Transfer Taoyuan Airport to Taipei City: $140
• Private Transfer from Taoyuan Intl Airport to Taoyuan or Taipei city: $125
• Taiwan Taoyuan Airport (TPE) to Keelung Cruise Port - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $115
• Private Transfer from Taipei Taoyuan Airport(TPE) to Hualien Port: $102
• Private Transfer from Taipei hotels to Hualien Cruise Port: $102
• Taipei Private Transfer: Keelung Cruise Port to Hotel: $85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tokyo

Also for Tokyo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• [Private airport transfer]Haneda Airport (HND)⇔Tokyo City: $154
• Yokohama Private Arrival Transfer : Tokyo Hotels to Yokohama Port or Hotels: $155
• Yokohama Port: Private Customizable Tour with Transfer: $336
• Yokohama Port Shared Transfer : from Haneda Airport to Yokohama Port: $68
• Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Toyko HTL-APT (NRT): $284
• Transfer in private vehicle from Tokyo Narita Airport to City Center: $90
• Transfer in private vehicle from Tokyo City Center to Narita Airport: $81
• Transfer in private minivan from Tokyo City Center to Narita Airport: $110
• Transfer in Private Minivan from Tokyo Narita Airport to City Center: $110
• Transfer between Tokyo Disney Resort and Tokyo City/Airport: $115
• Tokyo:Haneda Airport (HND) Private One-Way Transfer to Tokyo: $141
• Private transfer to/from Yokohama Osanbashi Port: $194

Is it cheaper to fly into Taipei or Tokyo?

Prices for flights to both Tokyo and Taipei change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Taipei $ 16 Tokyo $ 37

Typical Food Prices in Taipei

For Taipei, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:

• EasyCard $ 15
• Lunch at The Can $ 6.81
• EasyCard $ 31
• Lunch $ 2.94
• Lunch $ 1.86
• Dinner $ 6.19
• Lunch $ 3.56
• Lunch $ 4.64
• Louisa coffee $ 2.94

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Taipei

For Taipei, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Historic Night Market Food Tour with Tastings: $45
• Ximending Vegan Food Tour Snack, Dessert & Main!: $46
• Local Favorites: Taiwan Night Market Food Tour in 2 hours: $49
• Taipei Food Tour: Yongkang Street for Foodies: $58
• Taipei Food Tour: $58
• Yansan Night Market Food Tour: $62
• Turnip cake, Pork thick soup, Tofu pudding. Taiwan Traditional Light Meals Experience-C (Taipei Cooking Class): $65
• Taipei Food Tour and Colorful Bubble Tea Making: $65
• Taipei Food Tour and Colorful Bubble Tea Making: $70
• Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $74
• Xiao Long Bao, Chicken vermicelli with mushroom and sesame oil, Tofu strips salad, Bubble milk tea. Taiwan Traditional Delicacies Experience-A (Taipei Cooking Class): $77

Typical Food Prices in Tokyo

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tokyo:

• Late Night Noodles $ 5.22
• Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack $ 5.22
• Meal at Airport $ 6.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tokyo

For Tokyo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Takoyaki cooking experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $23
• Easy Ramen Cooking Experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $26
• 2 Hours Japanese Style Pub and Food Tour in Ueno: $33
• 【Contemporary Culture】food tour I Always Visit in Shibuya: $36
• Private Sushi Roll Cooking Class in Japan: $38
• 【Contemporary Culture】Food tour I Always Visit in Shibuya: $39
• Ueno Private Walking Tour and Night Food Tour: $40
• Tokyo Best Cooking Class! Sushi Making Experience in Tsukiji: $54
• Japanese Traditional Cooking Class: $60
• Wagyu and 7 Japanese Dishes Cooking Class: $60
• Tokyo Wagyu Culinary Tour Cooking Culture and Tasting: $66
• Small-Group Wagyu Beef and 7 Japanese Dishes Tokyo Cooking Class: $68

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Taipei $ 17 Tokyo $ 68

Tours and Activities in Taipei

For Taipei, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• One-Day Historical and Heritage Tour in Taipei : $47
• 1-day Tour to Sun Moon Lake from Taipei by High Speed Rail : $250
• 2 Days Sun Moon Lake & Lukang Historic Area Tour: $232
• 2-Day Private Tour to Sun Moon Lake and Mount Hehuan: $195
• 2-Hour Private Ximending Area Walking Tour: $35
• 2-Hour Vegetarian Private Walking Tour - S.Y.S. Memorial Hall & 44 South Village: $58
• 2-Hour Vegetarian Private Walking Tour - Xingtian Temple: $55
• 2-hr Ningxia Night Market Walking Private Tour with a Tour Guide: $35
• 3-Day Private Tour of Taroko Gorge & East Coast Scenic Area: $290
• 3.5 hours Taipei City Tour (morning or afternoon ) : $44
• 4-Hour Morning Cycling Tour in Taipei (incl. breakfast): $73
• 5 Hours Sightseeing and Bar Tour in Taipei: $69

Tours and Activities in Tokyo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tokyo.

• 4 Hours Private Shibuya - Shinjuku Night Tour: $132
• Art Japanese Fan Crafting Experience in Tokyo Asakusa: $23
• Authentic Samurai Experience With Real Actors: $99
• Feel the History Walking Tour Starting from Imperial Palace: $51
• Mt. Fuji Majestic Tours : Shinjuku to Arakurayama and Beyond: $80
• The best of Tokyo Walking tour: $244
• Tokyo Full Day Tour With Guide and Foods Included: $220
• Walking Tour to Temple and Izakaya from the River: $116
• “Your name.” Going on an electric bicycle <Roppongi, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku> A 6-hour tour of a sacred place. (With support car): $136
• "Nippori Fabric Town" Walking Tour: $41
• *Starting / Ending at Your Hotel* 3hr Private E-bike Tour Tokyo: $138
• 1 Day Bus Tour To Mitsumine Shrine From Shinjuku: $89
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Taipei $ 18 Tokyo $ 33

Sample the Local Flavors in Taipei

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Taipei:

• Taipei Nightlife: Taipei Pub Crawls (2 Different Routes): $30

Typical Alcohol Prices in Tokyo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Tokyo:

• Sake $ 3.91

Sample the Local Flavors in Tokyo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tokyo:

• Tokyo Pub Crawl: $25
• Low-cost local pub & bar crawling: $30
• 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $52
• TOKYO | Temple, Shrine, Sake Bar Crawling: $62
• barhopping tour&bar crawl in Retro Town Shimokitazawa: $84
• Toshimaya Sake Brewery Tour with Sake Tasting: $91
• Tokyo | 3 Hours Brewery Tour with Sake Sommelier: $103
• Private Sake Tasting at 300 Years Old Sake Brewery in Tokyo : $106
• 【Harajuku】Night Pub Crawl with Local Japanese: $125
• Private Local Craft Brewery Tour in Tokyo: $150
• Wooden Barrel Sake Brewery Tour and Unlimited Tasting Near Tokyo: $165
• Private Walking Tour with Sake Brewery Visit in Chichibu: $190

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Taipei and Tokyo, we can see that Taipei is more expensive. And not only is Tokyo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tokyo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tokyo and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Taipei would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Taipei than you might in Tokyo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Taipei Expensive? and Is Tokyo Expensive? .

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Taipei. When comparing the sizes of Taipei and Tokyo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

Related Articles for Taipei

Related articles for tokyo.

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Single Traveller

20 Day Best Of Japan, South Korea & Taiwan

A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.

This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

✓ Incredible sightseeing, including Kyoto's Fushimi Inari and Golden Pavilion, Seokguram Grotto, marvel at sacred Mount Fuji, discover the dazzling cities of Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul and Taipei ✓ 19 nights in central 3 and 4-star accommodation ✓ Breakfast daily ✓ International flights from Tokyo to Seoul and Seoul to Taipei ✓ Escorted by professional English-speaking tour guides in Japan and South Korea ✓ Expert local guides in Taiwan ✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout ✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary

✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.

Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.

Day 1 Tokyo

Today, board your flight to Tokyo. 

Upon arrival into Tokyo, please make your own way to the starting point hotel. Take the evening to relax after your flight and prepare for your first full day of touring tomorrow.

Arrival & Check-in information Haneda International Airport (HND). The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Haneda International Airport (HND) to Tokyo Central is by train or by Monorail. The airport is also serviced by many 'Limousine Bus' services which offer shared shuttle bus service from around 1300 Yen per person. Narita International Airport. The best way to travel from Narita International Airport to Tokyo Central is by the Narita Airport Express. The journey to most Tokyo stations takes approximately 1hr and the ticket costs 4070 Yen. The airport is also serviced by many 'Limousine Bus' services which offer shared shuttle buses from around 1300 Yen per person.

Hotel Check-in Travellers will be arriving at various times throughout the day. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotels discretion.

Note: Some flights may depart the day earlier.

Day 2 Tokyo Oishi Park Lake Kawaguchi Mount Fuji Hamamatsu

Enjoy breakfast this morning before you meet your Tour Leader this morning at approximately 08:30am before you start your full day of sightseeing. Our day starts with a stop at Oishi Park on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, well known for its serene, flower-lined walking path and its spectacular view of Mount Fuji.

Then, we stop by the eight ponds at Oshino Hakkai, a small village in the Fuji Five Lake region fed by the snow melt from the nearby mountains. See traditional thatched roof farmhouses in the shadow of the iconic Mount Fuji.

After our day in the Mount Fuji area we continue to Hamamatsu. Enjoy an evening at leisure.

Day 3 Hamamatsu Nara Dōtonbori Osaka

Today we head to Nara, famous for its many temples and its free-roaming deer. First, we visit Todaiji (Great Eastern Temple), one of Japan's most famous temples. This massive building houses one of Japan's largest bronze statues of Buddha (Daibutsu). We then wander through Nara Park, home to hundreds of friendly Sika deer.

We then continue to Osaka, where we’ll enjoy a walking tour of the Dōtonbori area. One of Osaka's most popular tourist destinations, this street runs parallel to the Dōtonbori canal and is a hugely popular destination for shopping, street food, bars and entertainment. At night the streets here are illuminated by hundreds of colourful neon lights and mechanised signs, including the famous running Glico Man sign and the Kani Doraku crab sign.

Enjoy an evening at leisure in Osaka.

Day 4 Osaka Kyoto Gion Osaka

We’ll see the sights of ancient Kyoto this morning, starting with Kyoto’s famed Fushimi Inari Shrine – known throughout the world as the ‘Path of the Red Gates.’ Take time to appreciate the quieter corners of the shrine, and if you’re feeling fit, a walk to the halfway point provides stunning city views. 

We’ll continue on to some of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, like Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion). This is a Zen temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold, set within a beautiful classical Zen garden.

Afterwards, stand amongst the soaring stalks of bamboo at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. It’s green, peaceful and the seemingly endless boughs make for a serene experience, even with the tourist crowds. Take in the sound of rustling bamboo as you stroll these paths – if there’s a bit of wind, the groves will gently sway back and forth which only adds to the magic.

Before leaving Kyoto, we visit the authentic Gion district. This historic area is home to many geisha and is packed with bars, restaurants and cafes. 

We head back to Osaka for another evening at leisure.

Day 5 Osaka Igaryu Nagoya Shizuoka

After breakfast we depart Osaka for Shizuoka. On the way, we will visit the Ninja Museum of Igaryu where you can see a ninja trick house, ninja museum and experience a ninja show (if time permits, at own expense). 

We then visit the historic 17th-century Nagoya Castle. The castle is the most iconic landmark in Nagoya and is an impressive sight. Afterwards, we continue to Shizuoka for an evening at leisure.

Day 6 Shizuoka Asakusa Nakamise Street Tokyo

After breakfast we travel back to Tokyo, where we embark on a tour of this energetic city. 

In a city of such frenetic pace, a stop at the charming Asakusa neighbourhood is a refreshing taste of older Tokyo. It’s home to the ancient seventh-century Sensō-ji Temple. Built in the Asuka era, it’s the oldest and most important Buddhist temple in Tokyo – be prepared for crowds! It’s known for its imposing entrance gate, Kaminarimon (also known as ‘Thunder Gate’), with its magnificent red lantern.

We’ll walk along Nakamise, the shopping street connecting the front gate and main hall of the temple. It’s a wonderful atmosphere, with food stalls and souvenir shops, selling authentic Japanese items like traditional crafts. You’ll find great souvenirs here. We’ll then stop at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for late afternoon panoramic city views.

Afterwards, we check in to our hotel for an evening at leisure.

Day 7 Tokyo Seoul

Today, you will make your own way to Tokyo Airport in time for your flight from Tokyo to Seoul.

Upon arriving into Seoul’s Incheon International Airport, you will be transferred (included) to your accommodation in the nation’s capital.

This evening you will have a briefing regarding your itinerary throughout South Korea.

Day 8 Seoul Jeonju

After breakfast, we make our way to Jeonju.

En route, we visit the UNESCO listed Tomb of King Muryeong and the Royal Tombs. Dating back to 500AD, the tomb complex was only re-discovered in 1927 and gives an insight into the Ungjin Period. 

We then visit the impressive Gongsanseong Fortress before continuing to Buyeo, an ancient capital of the Baekje Dynasty. 

We continue to Jeonju where we spend the night.

Day 9 Jeonju Gwangju Suncheon Yeosu

After breakfast at our hotel, we continue our journey to Gwangju, the leading city of Honam, the region and birthplace of a modern democratic movement in Korea. Here we visit May 18th National Cemetery dedicated to those who participated in the Gwangju Uprising in 1980.

Our journey continues to Suncheon where we will visit Suncheon Bay Garden. Afterwards, we travel to Yeosu, where we tour the modern port city before checking into our hotel.

Day 10 Yeosu Jinju Busan Gyeongju

Our first stop today is the Jinjuseong Fortress, historically linked to the Japanese invasion in 1592.

We then continue to Busan and visit the Jagalchi-Fishery Market, Busan’s largest seafood market, before seeing Haeundae Beach and Dongbaek Park. Our tour continues to the historic coastal city of Gyeongju where we check in to our hotel before an evening at leisure.

Day 11 Gyeongju Andong Pyeongchang

Today is a real highlight and our first destination is the Unesco World Heritage-listed Seokguram Grotto. The religious site was constructed between 742 and 765 AD and still serves as a significant site for Korean and international Buddhists for its ceremonial and artistic value.

We then visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bulguksa Temple before continuing to Andong Hahoe Folk Village, which has preserved the housing architecture and the village structure of the Joseon Dynasty. Moreover, the Village was naturally formed with people who actually live there. It has become world-famous for the visit of Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain.

From here, we continue to Pyeongchang - home of the 2018 Winter Olympics and the Woljeongsa Temple, a 9-storey octagonal pagoda.

Day 12 Pyeongchang Seoraksan National Park Seoul

Today we visit the venues of the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang.

Continue onto Seoraksan National Park - the peaks of the Seoraksan Mountains break through the clouds while jade-like water flows through the valleys, creating breathtaking views and making this Korea's most famous national park. Due to the many rare species found here, UNESCO designated this national park a Biosphere Preservation District in 1982. You have the opportunity to take a cable car to the summit (additional expense) before we transfer back to Seoul for our final evening in South Korea.

Please note: due to unforeseen circumstances dictated by the local government, the National Park may not be visitable. Alternative touring may be arranged by our local representatives.

Day 13 Seoul Taipei

At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Taipei. 

Upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, you will be transferred to your accommodation.

Day 14 Taipei

After breakfast, use your 1 Day Taipei Double-Decker sightseeing Bus ticket to explore Taipei!

The Red Route takes in Taipei 101, Huashan 1914 Creative Park, etc. The Blue Route takes in the Shilin Official Residence, National Palace Museum, etc. There is onboard English audio-guide information.

Day 15 Taipei Taroko

After breakfast, we make our way to Taroko Gorge via the world’s fifth longest highway tunnel (12.9km) and the breathtaking east coast cliff highway. We make a photo stop at the remarkable Chinshui Cliff, rising 2408 meters directly from the Pacific Ocean. Within the Taroko National Park, see the Taroko Gorge Gateway, Eternal Spring Shrine and Swallow Grotto.

Day 16 Taroko Sun Moon Lake

After breakfast, we drive to Sun Moon Lake via the picturesque Central Cross-Island Highway and Wuling on Mt. Hehuan, the highest point (3275m above sea level) of the highway and the best place to get a panoramic view over the Central Mountain Ranges.

Continue to Sun Moon Lake, a designated National Scenic Area, and drive along the lake to indulge yourself in the natural beauty all around, before visiting Wen-wu Temple with its beautiful lake views.

Day 17 Sun Moon Lake Tainan

Today, enjoy a trip from the beautiful Sun Moon Lake to the ancient capital of Tainan. Along the way we will stop at the Holy Monk Shrine, Tehua Village and Tse En Pagoda. Continue on to the Tehua village to learn the history of the Tsao tribe. Then, we will finish up our day by visiting Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan. Tainan city displays a mix of western and Chinese culture, and you can see this influence in the Anping Old Fort as well as the quaint shops and museums.

Day 18 Tainan Kaohsiung

This morning, we head to Kaohsiung to visit the Chihkan Tower and the first Confucian Temple to be built in Taiwan to get an insight into the ancient Confucian ceremonies and rituals. 

Afterwards, enjoy a light vegetarian lunch at the Fonguanshan Monastery with a tour through the main shrine and Buddhist museum as well as a tour through downtown Kaohsiung City.

Tonight, stroll through the Liu He Night Market where you can try a variety of delicious seafood on offer. Bring your appetite and enjoy the downtown energy!

Day 19 Kaohsiung Lukang Taipei

Day 20 taipei.

Today marks the end of your incredible tour through Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. At the appropriate time, join your included transfer to Taipei Airport for your onward journey.

What's Included

• Incredible sightseeing, including Kyoto's Fushimi Inari and Golden Pavilion, Seokguram Grotto, marvel at sacred Mount Fuji, discover the dazzling cities of Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul and Taipei
• 19 nights in central 3 and 4-star accommodation
• Breakfast daily
• International flights from Tokyo to Seoul and Seoul to Taipei
• Departure airport transfer in Taipei
• Escorted by professional English-speaking tour guides in Japan and South Korea
• Expert local guides in Taiwan
• Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
• In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary

Sightseeing Highlights

• Tokyo – Enjoy the buzz and energy of one of the world’s great cities
• Tokyo – Get a bird’s eye view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck, 202 metres high
• Tokyo – Visit Japan’s oldest temple Sensō-ji Temple, and enjoy a walking tour of atmospheric Nakamise Street
• Oshino Hakkai – See traditional thatched roof farm houses in the shadow of Mount Fuji at Oshino Hakkai
• Lake Kawaguchiko – Take in spectacular views of Mount Fuji at Oishi Park on the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko
• Kyoto – See this ancient capital’s most famous temples and shrines including the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari
• Kyoto – Revel in the lush, peaceful green splendour of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Kyoto – Wander through Kyoto’s famous geisha district, Gion
• Nara – Wander through Nara park with over 1,200 Sika deer
• Nara – Discover the Todaiji Temple and its great Buddha
• Osaka – Stroll through lively, colourful Dōtonbori
• Iga – Learn about the secretive and ancient art of the ninja at the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum
• Nagoya – Visit the impressive Nagoya Castle, completed in 1615
• Seoul – See the changing of the guards at Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Seoul – Experience the culture of the late Joseon Dynasty at the Korean Folk Village
• Seoul – Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Gongsanseong Fortress and Muryeong Gongsanseong Fortress
• Jinju – Explore the historic Jinjuseong Fortress, linked to the Japanese invasion of 1592
• Gyeongju – Discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed cave temple of Seokguram Grotto
• Pyeongchang – Visit the 2018 Winter Olympics venues
• Taipei – Enjoy a day sightseeing in Taipei at your own pace aboard the Taipei Double Decker bus
• Taroko – Visit Taroko National Park and see the Taroko Gorge Gateway, Eternal Spring Shrine and Swallow Grotto
• Sun Moon Lake – Discover Wen-wu Temple on the shores of the idyllic Sun Moon Lake
• Sun Moon Lake – Visit the Tehua village to learn the history of the Tsao tribe
• Kaohsiung – Stroll through the Liu He Night Market where you can try a variety of delicious seafood
• Kaohsiung – Visit the colourful Dragon and Tiger Pagoda located on Lotus Lake
• Lukang – Follow the winding Lukang Old Market Street to traditional Taiwanese style houses, narrow alleyways and the array of seafood and traditional foods

Payment Terms

Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person. Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options. Instalment Schedule:

• At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
• Pay a 1st installment of $599.00 per person within 28 days.
• Pay a 2nd installment of $1,199.00 per person within 90 days.
• You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Flight Information & Booking Options

This is a land only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances. 

Visa & Passport

It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here .

Important Information

Fitness Requirements While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorised as a”3”

Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.

You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Suggested amount for your guide, 500Y per person per day. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control. Twin Share Bedding Configuration At any time, bedding configuration is subject to confirmation by the hotel and based on availability. While you have the option to select either twin or double bedding at time of booking, our recommendation when travelling to Japan is to choose twin bedding, as the rooms are often bigger than those that have a double bed. If insisting on double bedding, please note that the rooms will be smaller and more narrow. As a general expectation, we cannot always guarantee bedding at all hotel stays.

Single Supplement Single supplement is $1,697.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price. Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this deal that you will receive a single room, which is smaller in size than a twin/double room. Unfortunately this is typical for Japan, as the cost to solely occupy a double/twin size room is incredibly high. We appreciate your understanding.

Triple Share Not available.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

Group Size 20-40 people

Children Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Tour Style To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels: 

• Partially Escorted - A portion of these packages runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is independent, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.

Cherry Blossoms Please note: cherry blossoms are weather dependent and it is not guaranteed that they will be in bloom at the time of your arrival.

Health & Mobility Requirements

All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.

Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.

It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.

Pre and Post-Tour Accommodation & Extra Services

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $158.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $127.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

• $237.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $237.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

• International airfares
• Airport Transfer
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

What Climate to Expect

Click HERE for more information on weather in Japan

Click HERE for more information on weather in South Korea

Departure Dates for 20 Day Best Of Japan, South Korea & Taiwan

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Also I have some ideas for Japan, ie: Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshem, but am not sure where I would go in Taiwan. Are the beaches nice, where is a nice mountain area?

For beaches, you can visit either Kenting or Okinawa. But you have much better options in SE Asia, there's really no need to come all the way here for beaches. Both countries have some beautiful mountains, the ones in Taiwan is better IMO, but in many cases you have to arrange your own transportation to get there.

It's very easy to get around Japan by public transportation if you understand Japanese, but otherwise you'll need to do some preparations outside of major cities. For beautiful mountain areas there I suggest you ask the experts in the Japan forum. They shall know it much better than me. I guess you'll hear Karuizawa and Mt. Fuji anyway.

If you are wonderering what to do in taiwan, you can look at my taiwan trips. http://Sflow00.wordpress.com

I been many times but still planning to go again.

Japan expediture will be generally higher than taiwan.

taiwan will have many night markets.

I am going for official purpose to taiwan. After it i want to take my family for sight seeing. Can anyone please guide where should i take them? Will bali / Pataya be good from taiwan? Or should i plan for japan?

Taipei City plus New Taipei City has a lot to offer.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

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

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

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

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

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

Taiwan Trip Planner

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

1. Best Places To Visit in Taiwan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

📍 Taroko National Park in Hualien

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

Top attractions in Taroko Gorge include:

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

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

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

See how to plan a trip to Taroko National Park .

📍 Sun Moon Lake

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

Top attractions in Sun Moon Lake include:

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

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

📍 Other Amazing Places in Taiwan

Taiwan has another endless number of places to visit.

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

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

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

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

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

🍀 My Experience in Taipei, Jiufen, and Taroko Gorge

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

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

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

2. When To Visit Taiwan

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

☀️ Best Time to Visit Taiwan

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

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

🍃 Taiwan’s Seasons

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

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

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

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

🍀 My Experience With Taiwan’s Weather

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

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

3. How Long To Spend in Taiwan

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

🗓️ How Many Days Do You Need in Taiwan?

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

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

See how to spend a week in Taiwan .

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

🍀 How Long I Stayed in Taiwan

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

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

4. Entry Requirements for Taiwan

The entry requirement for Taiwan is straightforward for US citizens.

🛃 Taiwan’s Visa and Passport Requirements

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

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

🍀 My Experience Entering Taiwan

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

5. Budgeting and Cash in Taiwan

Taiwan is a semi-affordable tourist destination for Asia.

💰 Expected Budget in Taiwan

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

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

🏧 Do You Need Cash In Taiwan?

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

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

💵 Are US Dollars Accepted in Taiwan?

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

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

🍀 My Taiwan Trip’s Budget

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

6. How To Get Around in Taiwan

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

✈️ Flying Into Taiwan

Taiwan has four international airports to fly into:

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

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

🚇 Best Way To Get Around Taipei: The MRT

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

Here are some tips when riding the Taipei MRT:

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

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

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

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

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

🚆 Option 1: Train

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

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

You can buy TRA train tickets in two ways:

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

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

🚌 Option 2: Public Bus

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

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

🚗 Option 3: Rental Car or Scooter

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

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

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

🚙 Option 4: Taxi and Uber

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

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

✈️ Option 5: Domestic Flight

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

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

🚲 Option 6: Cycling

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

🍀 How I Got Around Taiwan

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

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

7. How To Stay Safe in Taiwan

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

⚠️ Is Taiwan Safe to Visit?

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

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

🚖 Common Scams in Taiwan

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

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

💧 Is Tap Water Safe To Drink in Taiwan?

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

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

🦟 Does Taiwan Have Mosquitoes?

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

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

🍀 My Safety Tips for Taiwan

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

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

8. Language Barrier in Taiwan

Taiwan’s official language is Mandarin Chinese.

🗣️ Is English Common in Taiwan?

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

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

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

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

🍀 Traveling Taiwan With Just English

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

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

9. Cultural Differences in Taiwan

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

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

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

👟 Proper Etiquette in Taiwan

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

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

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

🍀 My Experience With Taiwan’s Culture

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

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

10. Taiwanese Food To Try

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. DIY vs. Guided Trip in Taiwan

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

🚐 Guided Taiwan Trip

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

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

🗺️ DIY Taiwan Trip

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

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

🍀 My DIY Taiwan Trip

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

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

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

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

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Taiwan Travel Guides

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

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10 of the best places to visit in Taiwan

Oct 23, 2023 • 6 min read

Narrow down your travel plans with this guide to the best places to visit in Taiwan © kitzcorner / Getty Images

With dynamic night markets jam-packed with delectable street food, gorgeous beaches and soaring mountains, Taiwan offers lots in a small package.

Just 395km (245 miles) from top to bottom, travelers will find futuristic cities, historic temples and killer surf breaks – all connected by affordable high-speed rail. As one of the friendliest East Asian countries for LGBTIQ+ travelers, too, it's pretty much got everything. Here are the best places to visit.

1. Sun Moon Lake

Best place to bike

Located in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is renowned for hiking, boating, romantic walks and countryside temples. It’s also famous for its bikeways, frequently found on lists of the world’s most stunning biking paths in the world. There are multiple options, but we recommend the Shuishang Bikeway . This 1300ft-long route wraps so closely around the lake that whizzing around its perimeter feels like floating on water. 

2. Beitou, Taipei

Best place for hot springs

Although 130 hot springs spill across this volcanic country island, Taipei locals love Beitou hot springs for their accessibility. Just a 30-minute train ride away from the center of the capital, you can luxuriate in geothermal heat-fueled hot springs. Veiled in the sulfur mist, you'll find hotels outfitted with bathtubs gushing hot water, public baths and a springs-obsessed culture. 

Planning tip: Visit Thermal Valley, aka Hell Valley, for one of the world’s only two green sulfur hot springs. It reopened in July 2022 after a renovation featuring improved accessibility, additional facilities and upgraded seating areas. 

3. Taroko National Park

Best place to chase waterfalls

Journey to this popular national park for its famed 19km (12 mile) canyon, Taroko Gorge , which features marble cliffs carved through centuries by the Liwu River. Located around 145km (90 miles) southeast of Taipei, the gorge contains  hikes of all levels where you can view an abundance of waterfalls towering and small. 

Make sure to hit the Yindai, Baiyang and Lushui waterfalls for the most stunning views. Intermediate hikers should trek the 4km round trip (2.6 miles) Baiyang Waterfall Trail, featuring eight tunnels and the Shuiliandong Water Curtain. For photo ops at Taroko National Park , check the waterfall and pavilion at the Eternal Spring Shrine, a picturesque veteran’s memorial. 

Best surf spot

Jinzun is located in Taitung County, which is home to the lengthiest coastline in Taiwan, running approximately 175km (109 miles). This little fishing village is a 40-minute drive from Taitung and hosts the Taiwan Open of Surfing . Surfing conditions are decent year-round, but the best time to go is in the autumn and winter, when typhoons create optimal waves. Professional surfers consider the waves here to be world-class, and since surfing is a newer sport in Taiwan, Jinzun is ideal for surfers trying to beat the crowds. If you don’t want to catch waves, go fishing or sunbathe on the sandy beaches. You can also pop 10 minutes south to Dulan to visit the Amis tribal village and Xindong Sugar Factory.

5. Kaohsiung 

Best place to temple hop

Taiwan’s second-largest city crackles with energy, and many consider it one of the best places to live on the island for its convenience and safety. Despite Kaohsiung’s zippy streets, you can find pockets of tranquility in its parks, pagodas and temples. Visit Lotus Pond to see more than 20 temples – enter through the Dragon pagoda and exit the Tiger pagoda for good luck. 

Located on the north side of the pond is the Kaohsiung Confucius Temple – the largest Confucius temple in Taiwan, designed in the style of a Song Dynasty-era temple. After temple-hopping, visit the romantic  Love River and indulge in street eats at the Rueifong Night Market.

Best place for quiet

This beautiful haven for nature fans rests on Taiwan’s northeast coast. Here, mountains meet the sea with cold and hot springs, whale and dolphin-watching, scenic hikes and black sand beaches. Highlights include the Hsuehshan Tunnel – the second-longest highway tunnel in Asia, connecting Taipei to Yilan in just 50 minutes – and the Divine Trees Garden at MaKau Ecological Park. The garden is home to over a hundred indigenous, millennia-old Taiwan red cypress trees, hinoki and benihi trees.

Planning tip: Head to the world’s first quiet trail, Cuifeng Lake Circular Trail – accredited by Quiet Parks International (QPI). It’s a 7.4km round trip (4.6 miles) hiking path, ranging from 1890–1980m (6200–6500ft) above sea level, abutting Sun Moon Lake and winding through floors of dense moss – said to absorb sound. 

7. Ximen district, Taipei

Best place for LGBTIQ+ travelers 

Taiwan has become one of the most progressive Asian countries for LGBTIQ+ rights. As the host of Asia’s biggest Pride parade, it’s also the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. The Ximen district in Taipei is renowned for its gay scene found behind the historic Red House Theatre , built in 1908. At this first openly gay place in the city, there are countless gay bars, saunas, restaurants and open-air plazas for hanging out. 

Planning tip: Ximen district is a well-known shopping area, great for people-watching stylish youth and the high-end fashion of those living in what’s considered the richest city in Taiwan. It’s also likely you'll see cosplayers, impromptu street dances, performances and celebrities and pop stars hosting meet and greets. 

Best place for fresh seafood

This port city overlooking the Donghai Sea is about 30km (19 miles) north of Taipei. Known for fresh seafood, Keelung Night Market is the perfect place to sample many dishes at once. Munch on butter crabs, thick crab soup, oyster omelets, tempera fish paste, ding bian cuo – a meat and seafood stew with rice batter noodles, deep-fried crab and braised eel, to name a few. 

Continue your eating spree by trying the local street food delicacy, chikuwa , a charcoal-grilled fishcake treat, and leftover remnant of the Japanese occupation at the Zhengbin Fishing Port. Afterward, night owls can hit the Kanziding Fish Market, a large frenetic seafood market open from 10pm to 6am. 

Best place to island hop

Locals love the southwest Penghu archipelago as a holiday destination for its white sand beaches, illustrious basalt columns, and pristine coral reefs. It’s speckled with islands and accessible from Taipei via an hour's flight. You’ll probably land in Magong City, where there’s plenty to explore, like the Penghu Tianhou Temple , Shanshui Beach, and the Du Hang Shih Cun military village. Don’t leave without trying local specialties, such as brown sugar cake, peanut candy, fresh oysters and cactus ice cream.

Planning tip:  Sign up for an island-hopping tour with everything from half-day to multi-day itineraries available. History buffs will enjoy Wang-an island for Zhongshe Village, an ancient fishing village. For sunbathers and swimmers,  Jibei is a great stop for its stunning beaches . Other famous islands include Wiyu, Baisha and Huxi.

10. Green Island

Best place to be underwater

Snorkelers, freedivers and scuba divers enjoy Green Island’s hundreds of species of brightly colored coral and fish. Located southeast of Taitung , this volcanic island is a diving destination with options for both shore and boat dives. If you prefer being above water, eyeball stunning views from the Lyudao Lighthouse , soak in the Zhaori Hot Spring  or relish the island’s natural vistas. 

This article was first published January 2023 and updated October 2023

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Blinken to visit China from Wednesday

The US State Department has announced that Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit China for three days from Wednesday with the situation in Taiwan high on the agenda.

A senior State Department official said on Saturday that Blinken will travel to Shanghai and Beijing. He will hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and others.

Ahead of the inauguration next month of Lai Ching-te as Taiwan's president, the officials are expected to discuss the situation surrounding Taiwan.

The State Department official says Blinken will convey a message to Beijing that all countries should contribute to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. He will also urge them to avoid any action that could escalate tensions at a critical and sensitive time, with the inauguration ceremony on May 20.

Blinken is also expected to exchange views with Chinese officials on the South China Sea, where Beijing is ramping up maritime activities, as well as North Korea.

The US also plans to express its strong concern about China's assistance for Russia's defense industry in connection with the situation in Ukraine.

The US official adds that Blinken's visit to China is also aimed at maintaining dialogue between the two countries to stabilize their relations.

Blinken's trip to China will be his first since June last year.

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Japan discusses regional defense in rare visit to Taiwan

In this photo released by the Taiwan Presidential Office, Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen, third right, greets Japanese delegation led by lawmaker and former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba, third from left, at the presidential office in Taipei, Taiwan Thursday, July 28, 2022. The group of Japanese lawmakers including two former defense ministers met with Taiwan’s president on Thursday in a rare high-level visit to discuss regional security. (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

In this photo released by the Taiwan Presidential Office, Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen, right, meets with a Japanese delegation led by lawmaker and former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba, third from left, at the presidential office in Taipei, Taiwan Thursday, July 28, 2022. The group of Japanese lawmakers including two former defense ministers met with Taiwan’s president on Thursday in a rare high-level visit to discuss regional security. (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

In this photo released by the Taiwan Presidential Office, Japanese lawmaker and former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba wears a mask during a meeting with Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen at the presidential office in Taipei, Taiwan Thursday, July 28, 2022. The group of Japanese lawmakers including two former defense ministers met with Taiwan’s president on Thursday in a rare high-level visit to discuss regional security. (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

In this photo released by the Taiwan Presidential Office, Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen exchanges gifts with Japanese lawmaker and former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba during a meeting at the Presidential office in Taipei, Taiwan on Thursday, July 28, 2022. A group of Japanese lawmakers including two former defense ministers met with Taiwan’s president on Thursday in a rare high-level visit to discuss regional security. (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

In this photo released by the Taiwan Presidential Office, Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen meets a Japanese delegation led by lawmaker and former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba, left, at the presidential office in Taipei, Taiwan on Thursday, July 28, 2022. The group of Japanese lawmakers including two former defense ministers met with Taiwan’s president on Thursday in a rare high-level visit to discuss regional security. (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

In this photo released by the Taiwan Presidential Office, Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen, center, and Taiwanese officials pose for photos with a Japanese delegation led by lawmaker and former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba, center left, at the Presidential office in Taipei, Taiwan on Thursday, July 28, 2022. A group of Japanese lawmakers including two former defense ministers met with Taiwan’s president on Thursday in a rare high-level visit to discuss regional security. (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

In this photo released by the Taiwan Presidential Office, Japanese lawmakers attend a meeting with Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen, unseen, at the presidential office in Taipei, Taiwan on Thursday, July 28, 2022. The group of Japanese lawmakers including two former defense ministers met with Taiwan’s president on Thursday in a rare high-level visit to discuss regional security. (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

FILE - In this photo released by the Taiwan Ministry of National Defense, Taiwan military forces conduct anti-landing drills during the annual Han Kuang military exercises near New Taipei City in Taiwan on Wednesday, July 27, 2022. A group of Japanese lawmakers including two former defense ministers met with Taiwan’s president on Thursday in a rare high-level visit to discuss regional security. (Taiwan Ministry of National Defense via AP, File)

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TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — A group of Japanese lawmakers including two former defense ministers met with Taiwan’s president Thursday in a rare high-level visit to discuss regional security.

The delegation, led by lawmaker and former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba, said it wanted to reach an agreement with Taiwan on defense issues and prepare for any potential conflict in the region, while also seeking to prevent conflict from breaking out.

“We need to think ahead about what kind of situations could happen, what kind of laws and agreements we should prepare, and what kind of armaments we could use,” he said in prepared remarks at the Presidential Office. “We need to work together to reach consensus on this ahead of anything that could happen.”

Ishiba noted that Japan is also working closely with the U.S. to prevent conflict in the Indo-Pacific, saying the defense allies “had no choice” but to prepare.

Tensions in the region have risen amid increasing assertiveness from China, whose authoritarian ruling Communist Party considers democratic, self-ruling Taiwan its own territory, to be annexed by force if necessary.

The group of Japanese lawmakers was welcomed by President Tsai Ing-wen and will also meet with Su Tseng-chang, president of the Executive Yuan, and representatives from Taiwan’s Defense Ministry.

“Safeguarding Taiwan is not only about safeguarding sovereignty. It’s also because on the issue of strategic safety Taiwan is a very critical line of defense of the first island chain,” Tsai said. “We will continue to deepen our cooperation with Japan and other democratic partners to uphold the Indo-Pacific area’s peace and stability.”

Ishiba was accompanied by three other Japanese lawmakers — Yasukazu Hamada, Akihisa Nakashima and Takayuki Shimizu — who are all members of a cross-party national security group that is comprised of many who have served in the defense establishment.

Ishiba said Japan had a responsibility to promote regional security, economic development and rule of law.

“It cannot just be at the level of thought, just words spoken out of one’s mouth. Japan must take on concrete responsibilities in the Asia region,” he said.

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Japanese PM Fumio Kishida addresses U.S. 'self-doubt' about world role in remarks to Congress

WASHINGTON — Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida asserted in an address to a joint meeting of Congress on Thursday that his country stands with the U.S. at a time when history is at a turning point.

Kishida said the U.S. held a certain reputation decades ago that "shaped the international order" and "championed freedom and democracy."

"You believed that freedom is the oxygen of humanity," he said. "The world needs the United States to continue playing this pivotal role in the affairs of nations. And yet, as we meet here today, I detect an undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be."

Kishida said that is happening when the world is "at history's turning point" as "freedom and democracy are currently under threat around the globe," climate change is causing natural disasters, and technology such as artificial intelligence is advancing.

Japan faces "an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge" from China," he said. He also spoke about the threats from North Korea and from Russia in Ukraine.

"Ladies and gentlemen, as the United States’ closest friend, tomodachi, the people of Japan are with you, side by side, to assure the survival of liberty," he said. "Not just for our people, but for all people."

He continued: "I am here to say that Japan is already standing shoulder to shoulder with the United States. You are not alone. We are with you."

Kishida shared that he has felt a special connection to the U.S. since he attended his first three years of elementary school in Queens.

"We arrived in the fall of 1963, and for several years my family lived like Americans," he said. "My father would take the subway to Manhattan, where he worked as a trade official. We rooted for the Mets and the Yankees and ate hot dogs at Coney Island. On vacation, we would go to Niagara Falls or here to Washington, D.C."

It was only the second time a Japanese prime minister has formally delivered remarks to Congress. The first time in 2015, when Shinzo Abe spoke with Kishida in attendance as a foreign minister. Abe was assassinated in 2022. The last foreign leader to address lawmakers was Israeli President Isaac Herzog, in July.

Thursday's address also marked the first joint meeting with a foreign leader since Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., took the gavel. Vice President Kamala Harris also presided over the chamber during the speech.

Congressional leaders had invited Kishida to speak to both chambers in early March, with Johnson saying in a statement that it was part of an effort to lay "the foundation for collaboration in the years to come."

Before the address, Kishida met in a room just off the House chamber floor with the Big Four congressional leaders: Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. They didn't take any questions; Johnson joked to Kishida that he had brought along a large media corps from Japan.

"Japan is a close ally — critical to both our national and economic security," Schumer said. "This visit will continue to deepen the diplomatic and security relationship between our two countries and build on the strength of decades of cooperation.”

The visit is notable as Republicans, especially those in the House, resist providing foreign aid to Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan and other places; countering China has been a big focus of Kishida's visit to the U.S.

"China's current external stance and military actions present an unprecedented and the greatest strategic challenge, not only to the peace and security of Japan, but to the peace and stability of the international community at large," Kishida said.

He added: "Russia's unprovoked, unjust and brutal war of aggression against Ukraine has entered its third year. As I often say, Ukraine of today may be East Asia of tomorrow."

Before Kishida was invited, the Republican and Democratic leaders on the House Foreign Affairs Committee urged Johnson to formally ask him to speak to Congress, saying in a letter that it would "signal congressional support for this critical alliance and help Members of Congress understand [Japan's] importance to the economic and strategic interests of the United States."

After the address, Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken hosted a luncheon with Kishida at the State Department.

In the late afternoon, Kishida participated in the inaugural U.S.-Japan-Philippines trilateral summit at the White House, meeting with President Joe Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

During that meeting, Biden said the U.S. defense commitments to Japan and the Philippines are “ironclad.”

“Any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke our mutual defense treaty,” he said.

Biden also highlighted technology and clean energy as areas for the “deepening ties” among the three countries.

“We’re securing our semiconductor supply chain,” he said, adding that the U.S. is expanding telecommunications in the Philippines.

In a joint statement after the meeting, the three leaders voiced concerns over what they called China’s “dangerous and aggressive behavior.”

“We steadfastly oppose the dangerous and coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea, as well as efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore resource exploitation,” their statement said.

They also expressed opposition to efforts that “seek to undermine Japan’s longstanding and peaceful administration of the Senkaku Islands” in the East China Sea.

On Wednesday, Biden and Kishida announced plans to improve the U.S. military command structure in Japan, which hosts about 54,000 U.S. personnel. The two countries will also form a military-industrial council to explore the kinds of weapons they can produce jointly.

The White House hosted a state dinner for Kishida in the evening. Guests included former President Bill Clinton and former first lady Hillary Clinton, as well as Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Apple CEO Tim Cook.

Rebecca Shabad is a politics reporter for NBC News based in Washington.

Scott Wong is a senior congressional reporter for NBC News.

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China wants ability to invade Taiwan by 2027, U.S. admiral says

John Aquilino warns Beijing is building up military despite economic challenges

TOKYO -- China aims to have the capability to invade Taiwan by 2027, Adm. John Aquilino, commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, said Tuesday, echoing previous warnings by senior American military officials.

The timeline is based on Chinese President Xi Jinping asking "his military to be prepared if tasked to execute in 2027," said Aquilino, who spoke to Nikkei and other outlets while visiting Japan.

Xi's playbook for China is different from what U.S. thinks, scholars say

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