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The Best Time to Visit Taiwan

TripSavvy /  Michela Buttignol

The weather around Taiwan tends to be warm year-round, with long and hot summers and short, only slightly cooler winters. That said, there’s a considerable variance between north to south—unusual for an island that’s only 13,855 square miles (35,883 sq km) in size, or slightly larger than the U.S. state of Maryland .   The best time to visit is between October and April when the weather is the best.

In the sub-tropical north, the winter months of November to February see increased rainfall, while the warmer, tropical south feels perceptibly drier and hotter.

The summer months of June to September bring heat and humidity throughout Taiwan, ramping up to typhoon season from July to October bringing storms that batter the east coast.

Read on to find out about Taiwan’s weather, its top holidays and things to do in Taiwan from season to season.

Weather in Major Regions of Taiwan

Taiwan straddles the Tropic of Cancer, cutting the island into two distinct eco-regions. The capital Taipei and most of the island falls under a subtropical climate, creating the evergreen forests and the temperate highlands that make Taiwan such an exciting adventure destination in the autumn months.

The southern third of Taiwan is classified as a tropical eco-region, covered in tropical rainforest and marked by warm weather that goes down no further than 72 degrees F (22 degrees C) even in the winter months.  

Northern Taiwan: Taipei

Taiwan’s capital Taipei sits at the northwest end of the island, and experiences some of the north’s climate extremes.  

The temperature in Taipei ranges from high 50 degrees F (14 degrees C) in January to low 90 degrees F (33 degrees C) in the peak of summer. Humidity remains relatively constant at an average of 76 percent, barely dipping or rising throughout the year. Sea temperatures offer pleasant swimming between May and October.

Taipei and the north experiences some 95 inches of rainfall yearly, reaching a peak in the summer months between June to September, with as many as 14.2 inches falling in September alone

Southern Taiwan: Kaohsiung

The Taiwanese city of Kaohsiung enjoys a tropical climate more akin to Cambodia or Laos , thanks to its coastal location and exposure to warm sea temperatures.

Kaohsiung’s temperatures hit a peak between April and November, with temperatures reaching 97 degrees F (36 degrees C) in July. The months of December to March see Kaohsiung at its coolest, with lows of 59 degrees F(15 degrees C) recorded in January.  

The southern city enjoys a relative humidity falling between 71 and 81 percent, with around 13 inches of rain falling between June to August.

Central Highlands

Visitors to the higher reaches of the island’s mountainous interior—including Alishan National Scenic Area and Taroko National Park—enjoy temperature highs of 55 degrees F (13 degrees C) in July and August, and wintry lows of around 23 degrees F (-5 degrees C) in January.  

Snowfall in the winter months can be experienced by hikers ascending the slopes of Mount Guanshan and Mount Hehuanshan.

Peak Season in Taiwan

Most foreign tourists know to avoid the hottest, wettest months in and surrounding the summer season. From October to April—the best time to visit Taiwan—the island’s weather feels comfortably (not oppressively) warm, and rainfall drops to an acceptable minimum.

These months also include some of the most crowded times to visit—Chinese New Year and “Double Ten” ( Oct. 10, National Day ) bring out locals traveling long distances home to visit family; expect to have a more difficult time booking transportation and accommodations on these dates.

Summer is considered peak tourist season in Taiwan—another good reason to avoid visiting Taiwan in July and August! Better to come during low season from November to March, where travel costs are 50 percent lower than in the summer months.

What to Pack

Given the shirt-sleeve weather that lowland Taiwan experiences all year round, you don’t need to pack any heavy clothing (unless you’re planning to trek in the highlands in the winter months).

The most useful clothes for a trip to Taiwan include:

• Light cotton or perspiration-wicking clothing for a summer visit.
• Warmer clothing, like long-sleeved shirts and jeans for spring or autumn visits.
• Umbrellas or lightweight waterproof jackets, to protect against the rain.
• Swimwear, if you’re planning on visiting beaches or hot springs.
• Sturdy shoes to match your purpose: hiking shoes for trekking Taiwan’s mountains, or just casual but comfortable trainers for walking around in the cities.

Avoid wearing skimpy clothing if you’re planning to visit a local temple; at the minimum, cover up most of your legs and shoulders if a temple is part of your itinerary.

Winter in Taiwan

The shortest season on the island, winter occurs between December and February. Tropical southern Taiwan experiences pleasant temperatures in winter, reaching highs of 73 degrees F (23 degrees C) in January, while the subtropical sections of the island experience slightly cooler maximum temperatures of 64 degrees F (18 degrees C).

Occasional cold fronts can see temperatures drop between 40 degrees F (4 degrees C), causing havoc when they catch locals by surprise. A 2016 cold snap killed 85 and stranded some 60,000 tourists.

Events to check out:

• Taiwan celebrates Chinese New Year during the winter months—one of Taiwan’s two biggest annual festivals (the other, National Day, takes place in October).
• The Lantern Festival ends the official Chinese New Year season 15 days later, with individual cities putting their own unique stamp on the festivities. Taipei Lantern Festival fills the Taipei Expo Park with both traditional and modern lanterns. Kaohsiung Lantern Festival is a lantern-themed party held along Love River, spilling out into major roads along the celebration venue. Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival sees one of the biggest release of sky lanterns in the world, taking place at Pingxi near Keelung.

Spring in Taiwan

The spring months (March to May) see a slow movement from cool to warm in Taiwan. Expect average high temperatures of 73°F (23°C) in the daytime. Temperatures in the highlands will start to come down to reasonable levels; hikers hit the trekking trails around Taiwan’s mountains in these months.

At the latter half of spring, the beaches in southern Taiwan start to warm up enough for swimmers. This is perhaps the ideal time to see both extremes of the island: the cherry blossoms opening up in the highlands, and the warm (but not sweltering) welcome of the lowlands.

• Yangmingshan cherry blossom viewing: Visit Yangmingshan National Park near Taipei between mid-February and early April to watch the red cherry trees in full bloom.
• Mazu International Festival: A week-long festival in March that promotes the worship of the Goddess of the Sea Mazu, who has many devotees in Taichung. Southern Taiwan.
• Fulong Sand Sculpting Festival: Fulong Beach in northern Taiwan has golden sand whose consistency is perfect for sand sculptures; you’ll find these aggregates put to their best use come April, when beautiful sand sculptures sprout up all over the area.

Summer in Taiwan

The months of June to August finds Taiwan at its hottest and wettest, with average temperatures rising to 95 degrees F (35 degrees C) and humidity rising to a sweltering 92 percent in the south, and a more manageable 86 degrees F (30 degrees C) in the north.

• Computex Taipei : The largest IT fair in Asia takes place right in Taiwan’s capital in June.
• Taiwan International Balloon Festival : Held between June and August, this multi-week balloon festival takes off from Taitung county, filling the air with unusual hot air balloons.
• Keelung Mid-Summer Ghost Festival : This Taiwanese city takes the opportunity to celebrate Ghost Month not just for the departed ancestors, but also for the casualties of a long-ago war.

Autumn in Taiwan

The autumn months from September to November find the heat and humidity receding to a tolerable level, with average temperatures of 75 degrees F (24 degrees C). It’s a good time to go back into the cities: enjoy Taiwan’s awesome street food in Kaohsiung and Taipei!

• Visit Yangmingshan National Park to see the trees’ foliage in full autumnal bloom.
• Yunlin International Puppet Arts Festival : Yunlin County celebrates traditional Chinese puppetry with performances, classes and other celebrations held throughout the month of October.

The best time to visit Taiwan is from October to April. Not only are the days much cooler compared to the sweltering days of summer, but the humidity is lower and rain is minimal.

The cheapest time to visit Taiwan coincides with the best weather. The winter months are the low season for tourism around the country, with the major exception of Lunar New Year, which typically falls in late January or February.

Summer is when Taiwan experiences the most rainfall, especially from the months of June to September. This is also typhoon season, so keep an eye on weather alerts if you're visiting during these months.

Taiwan Tourism. "General Information." Retrieved February 3, 2021.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Taipei, Taiwan, Year Round." Retrieved February 3, 2021.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Year Round." Retrieved February 3, 2021.

Taroko National Park. "Weather." Retrieved February 3, 2021.

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The island state of Taiwan has a subtropical monsoon climate, with wet, humid summers and short, relatively mild winters. Choosing when to go to Taiwan doesn’t have to be difficult. We’ve done the weather research for you, so you can find the ideal conditions to explore this fascinating destination and enjoy your visit.

Weather in Taiwan

When is the best time to visit taiwan, when to visit taiwan in winter, when to visit taiwan in spring, when to visit taiwan in summer, when to visit taiwan in fall, festivals and holidays in taiwan, aboriginal festivals, festivals calendar for taiwan, tailor-made travel itineraries for taiwan, created by local experts.

11 days  / from 1950 USD

Nature's adventure in Taiwan

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

11 days  / from 2541 USD

Treasures of Taiwan

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

5 days  / from 1100 USD

The Essentials of Taiwan

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

Tailor-made trips for   Taiwan

Because of its location on the Tropic of Cancer, Taiwan’s weather is mostly subtropical, with pockets of tropical climate in the south. This means that the weather is warm and humid – but rain is common throughout the year. After all, that’s one of the reasons why Taiwan’s natural landscapes are so lush!

Taiwan has two rainy seasons that arrive at different times of the year and affect different areas. The southern part of the island is the first to experience the monsoon, with heavy rains hitting between May and September. Monsoon rains then move onto the north and northeast.

In addition to the monsoon, the country has a “plum rain” season, which typically runs between May and June. Plum rains are short and intense and come in fronts, which means it can rain for a few days or even weeks at the time, or not rain at all. These fronts are reliably forecast by the country’s Weather Bureau, so keep an eye on English-language newspapers for the latest updates.

To decide when is the best time to travel to Taiwan, first you should consider your itinerary. Tourists travel to Taiwan all year round, so it all depends on what you plan to see and do.

For general travel, September, October, and November are the best months to visit. The summer is ideal for those interested in tropical beaches and island hopping. For culture and nature, visit during the spring. But winter is great for visiting Taipei also. In fact, there is no wrong time to visit Taiwan: you’ll find great food, spectacular nature, and vibrant city life throughout the year.

The main gate of National Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall in Taipei © Shutterstock

Despite its subtropical climate, Taiwan’s winters can be colder than what most travellers expect. Average temperatures range between 15°C and 20°C - a big difference when compared to the 30°C+ temperatures at other times of the year. But winters here are not severe, and are definitely not as cold as they get in nearby Japan .

Winter weather in Taiwan can bring fog, cloudy skies, and cool temperatures, especially in the north. However, winter can also be the best time to visit Taiwan if you plan on exploring the country’s top urban destinations. There are plenty of things to see and do indoors in cities like Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taichung. To sum up, winter in Taiwan can be chilly, but there’s nothing that a few layers of clothing can’t fix.

Visiting Taiwan in December — February

Winter weather varies across Taiwan. The further south you go, the warmer it will get, and vice versa. Average temperatures in Taipei and other areas of northern Taiwan hover around 15°C, but are lower during cold spells, which usually hit in January. On the other hand, winter temperatures rarely go below 20°C in southern areas like those surrounding Kenting National Park.

The winter months are great to discover Taipei’s top landmarks. Tourist numbers are low, so it’s easier to experience the city’s most relaxed side. While in the area, make sure to set a day aside to visit the Beitou hot springs. The springs can be easily reached by public transport, and they’re guaranteed to be a hit among both children and adults. If you’re after something similar but with an upscale touch, the cosy mountain retreats and resorts of central Taiwan will fit the bill. In total, there are more than 150 hot springs all over Taiwan.

Cherry blossom trees are in full bloom in January and February. The season attracts thousands of visitors to Taiwan every year. The photo opportunities are fabulous, and this may well be one of the highlights of your trip. Blooming dates are slightly different every year, but you can find online forecasts - hardly surprising, considering that this is super-efficient Taiwan! The best places to admire the colourful display of cherry blossom trees in or near Taipei are, Tianyuan Temple, Wulai, and Yangmingshan National Park.

If warm weather is what you’re after, southern Taiwan will not disappoint. Even in January, which is the coldest month of the year, temperatures stay balmy. This may be a good time to explore Kaohsiung , the country’s southernmost city and the gateway to tropical Taiwan.

Crystal clear waters on a winter day at Sun Moon Lake © Shutterstock

Spring is the ideal time to discover Taiwan’s natural and cultural heritage. Although the temperatures get gradually warmer between March and May, it will still be too cold to go for a swim. But there are other things that will keep you entertained: festivals, hikes, tea picking tours, and cycling trips are only some of them. One thing to remember: temperatures rise steadily between March and May, but so do the chances of rain, so make sure you have waterproof clothing when you head out.

Visiting Taiwan in March-May

During March, you can still catch the end of the cherry blossom season in central and southern Taiwan. Other exotic flowers will start to cover the hills and valleys surrounding Hualien, in eastern Taiwan. The botanical parks and gardens in Taipei, Chiayi, and Taichung are great places to spend a spring day out. And so is the Ta Shee Blooming Oasis, near Taoyuan.

Spring is also a fantastic time to visit the East Coast National Scenic Area . Stretching over 170 kilometres (over 100 miles) south of Hualien, this area offers impressive coastal views and a chance to learn about the country’s aboriginal cultures. This is the perfect destination for an active holiday or cycling adventure.

Alishan Mountain is another top spring destination in Taiwan. Tea culture is strong all over the country, but especially so in the highlands of central Taiwan. The weather here is perfect for tea plantations to thrive – and for tourists to sample the delicate flavours of local Oolong teas. There are other tea farms in the Wuhe plateau, near Hualien, and in the outskirts of Taipei.

The festival calendar is packed with interesting events during March and April. Some of the most eye-catching events include the International Fireworks Festival in Penghu, Baosheng Cultural Festival, and Bunun’s Ear Shooting Festival, one of Taiwan’s biggest indigenous ceremonies.

Sunsat at Alishan © Shutterstock

Summer is considered the peak tourist season in Taiwan. The summer school break begins in July, so many local families will be on holiday at this time of the year. The same applies to travellers from nearby countries. Advance bookings are recommended if you visit Taiwan in the summer.

Taiwanese summers are hot and humid. Average temperatures are in the 30s, but it may feel hotter due to the humidity. If you find it hard to cope with subtropical summers, you may want to consider destinations in the mountain areas.

Prepare for wet monsoon weather if you visit during the summer. Rainfall is especially heavy in southern Taiwan. Moreover, summer storms in the form of tropical cyclones hit at least twice a year, and are more likely in late August and September. A packable rain jacket, umbrella, or waterproof poncho are a must-have for Taiwan travel!

Despite the rain, summer is beach time in Taiwan. The warm season is ideal for beach hopping trips and relaxing island holidays. And if you’re into watersports, this is the best time to travel to Taiwan.

Visiting Taiwan in June — August

Looking for a break from Taiwan’s humid summers? Then head to higher altitude areas. At 3,500 metres or nearly 13,000 feet, Jade Mountain is the island’s highest peak. The mountain is located in Yushan National Park , which is crisscrossed by hiking trails. If you come here, get ready for spectacular views of the park’s valleys, which quite literally become seas of clouds.

Another suggestion is visiting Puli, some 60 kilometres (37 miles) north of Yushan National Park. The town is a great base to explore the many attractions nearby, such as the impressive Chung Tai Chan monastery or Cinjing Farm. Puli is also the homeland of Taiwanese rice wine. The city’s wine museum and winery make for an interesting day trip.

If you’re more of a beach person, you’ll fall in love with the white sand beaches of Taiwan’s tropical south. Make sure to include Taimali and Fenghuisha in your itinerary! And if you have your own wheels, you’ll find breathtaking coves and bays all along the coast between Hualien and Taitung. With that said, the beaches in northern Taiwan are better for swimming, especially in late summer, when there’s a higher chance of typhoons hitting the south coast.

Still in beach mood? Then you may want to explore Taiwan’s tropical islands. Here are some destination suggestions:

• Orchid Island, also known as Lanyu. Connected to Taichung by plane and ferry, the island is home to some of Taiwan’s most stunning coastal scenery. And it’s also a scuba diving and snorkelling paradise!
• Turtle Island, which gets its name from its unusual shape. Turtle Island’s main draw is its active volcano – the only one in Taiwan. Low in population but rich in wildlife and natural beauty, Turtle Island is a great place to go on a dolphin or whale watching tour.
• Ludao, off the coast of Taitung. Sometimes called Green Island, Ludao is another volcanic island that offers an interesting mix of activities: hot spring baths, snorkelling, swimming, and hiking.
• The Kinmen archipelago , which is mostly known for its historical and architectural value. You could easily spend a few days exploring the island’s temples, museums, cultural villages, and of course sampling its distinctive cuisine.

Few people know that Taiwan has great beaches - Fulong Bathing Beach near Taipei © Shutterstock

Weather-wise, September to November is considered the best time of the year to visit Taiwan. This season offers the perfect combination of cool and dry weather. During most of September, the south stays warm, but temperatures begin to cool down in northern Taiwan, although they’re still pleasant. Milder temperatures and less rain mean that this is a great time of the year for travellers who enjoy outdoor activities.

Visiting Taiwan in September — November

September and October are among the most photogenic months in Taiwan – at least where nature is concerned. In northern Taiwan, tree leaves start to change colour in mid-September, and the process gradually extends to southern areas over the following months. Some of the best places to spot this beautiful natural display include:

• Taroko Gorge, which can be visited as a day trip from Hualien.
• Aowanda Forest Recreational Area and its incredibly picturesque Maple Trail.
• Dasyueshan National Forest, which is also a great spot for bird watching.

Sun Moon Lake is always a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy some peace and quiet. But the magical charm of this site is even more powerful at this time of the year. Things to do here include taking boat trips, visiting traditional villages, or simply renting a scooter to see where the scenic roads will take you.

Our last suggestion for a fun day out at this time of the year is taking the Jiji Line . This is scenic train trip runs between the rustic village of Checheng and Ershui, located in the mountains south of Taichung. Along the way, you can stop at old logging towns, plum wine breweries, and historical tea houses.

And if you’re in Taiwan during the Mid Autumn Moon Festival, don’t forget to try the famous Taiwanese mooncakes -you’ll probably want to take some home with you! If you love exotic food and don’t know when to go to Taiwan, book your trip around this festival and you won’t be disappointed.

One of Taiwan’s greatest attractions is the sheer range and depth of its festivals, all celebrated with a passion and fervour unique to the island. While the biggest ones are the traditional Chinese festivals – which double as public holidays – there is also an eclectic collection of religious festivals as well as an amazing array of time-honoured aboriginal celebrations.

The majority of cultural and religious festivals follow the Chinese lunar calendar . As such, the actual Gregorian calendar dates on which they are celebrated tend to fluctuate significantly each year – in our festivals calendar , we have listed them under the Gregorian calendar month in which they are usually celebrated, with a note of their actual Chinese lunar calendar dates. We also specify which are public holidays (P), during which banks and government and private offices are closed, though many shops and restaurants remain open.

Though Chinese traditional and religious festivals are routinely well publicized, many aboriginal celebrations remain closely guarded secrets , and even local tourism officials are often confused about or unaware of the actual dates on which they are observed. Villages typically stage their own celebrations, and tribal elders usually set the dates for these in accordance with a variety of factors. Further complicating this, established dates can be changed at the last minute in the face of inauspicious omens such as the sudden illness or death of a village elder. Finally, the truly authentic aboriginal celebrations are taken very seriously, with ancient rituals performed with pinpoint precision. As such, most tribes don’t want their traditions to become a spectacle for busloads of camera-toting tourists, so many – especially those along the east coast – make a concerted effort to hide their celebration dates from tourism officials. However, individual travellers or those in small groups are generally welcomed to events such as harvest festivals with open arms, often being invited to drink local spirits with the tribesmen. Those fortunate enough to experience these thriving cultures will learn about a side of Taiwan that most foreigners – and many Taiwanese – know precious little about, and it’s well worth the effort to seek them out.

Foundation Day/New Year’s Day Jan 1 (P). Marks the founding of the Republic of China in 1911, but also gives a nod to the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. Offices and schools are shut, with many remaining closed on Jan 2 & 3.

January/February

Chinese New Year ( chūn jié ) Lunar Jan 1–3 (P). Taiwan’s most important festival, marking the start of the Chinese year. Celebrations centre mostly on family gatherings with lavish meals; “lucky” money in small red envelopes is exchanged; fairs and public parades are held.

Qingshui Zushi’s Birthday Lunar Jan 6. Commemorates the quasi-historic figure from Fujian, revered for his wisdom and munificence. Main ceremonies at Zushi Temple in Sanxia, outside Taipei, including the ritual slaying of “God Pigs”.

Jade Emperor’s Birthday Lunar Jan 9. Pays tribute to the chief Taoist deity, the head of celestial government thought to mirror that of imperial China. Main ceremonies at temples in Daxi, Taichung and Tainan.

Lantern Festival Lunar Jan 15. Marks the end of Chinese New Year festivities, but itself often lasts several days in big cities such as Taipei and Kaohsiung. Main activity is the public display of paper lanterns; in some cities, paper lanterns are launched into the sky, most famously during the Heavenly Lantern Festival in Pingxi; another popular event is the Beehive Rockets Festival in Yanshui near Tainan, where an almost 200-year tradition of setting off fireworks has transformed into an annual free-for-all.

Peace Memorial Day Feb 28 (P). Instituted in 1997, and also known as “2-28 Memorial Day”, it commemorates the 2-28 Incident.

February/March

Wenchang Dijun’s Birthday Lunar Feb 3. Pays respect to the god of literature or culture, revered by students and their parents ahead of exams. Offerings of incense and wishes are written on colourful paper placed in glass jars.

Mayasvi Festival Tsou tribe celebration of warriors returning from battle, with rituals giving thanks to the god of war and the god of heaven. Hosted annually in rotation between Dabang and Tefuye villages.

Guanyin’s Birthday Lunar Feb 19. The goddess of mercy’s birthday is celebrated at Buddhist temples throughout the country, but the main place to mark the occasion is Taipei’s Longshan Temple. The event is also marked at the Zizhu Temple in Neimen (near Kaohsiung), which holds a festival celebrating its 300-plus-year history as one of the most sacred sites for Taiwanese Buddhists. The festival features the island’s most important annual performances of the Song Jiang Battle Array, ritualized martial performing arts depicting symbolic battles with a variety of traditional weapons, including farm tools.

Youth Day March 29. Pays tribute to the more than one hundred of Sun Yat-sen’s revolutionaries who were killed in the failed Canton Uprising against the imperial Qing government on March 29, 1911. Taiwan’s president officiates at a public service at the National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine in Taipei, and local governments hold similar ceremonies.

March/April

Queen Mother of the West’s Birthday Lunar March 3. Honours the highest-ranking female deity, often portrayed as the Jade Emperor’s wife. Main festivities in Hualien (where it is celebrated on Lunar 18/7), the centre of her cult in Taiwan.

Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven’s Birthday Lunar March 3. Pays respect to the controller of the elements, particularly fire. Worshipped at some four hundred temples throughout Taiwan.

Tomb Sweeping Day ( qīngmíng ) April 5 (P). Families visit cemeteries to clean graves of relatives and pay respects to their ancestors. In Taiwan, it’s celebrated on the anniversary of Chiang Kai-shek’s death. “Grave cakes” are offered and paper money is burnt.

Baosheng Dadi’s Birthday Lunar March 15. Marks the birthday of Baosheng Dadi, the “Great Emperor who Preserves Life”. Biggest celebration is held in Xuejia, north of Tainan.

Bunun Ear-shooting Festival Most important celebration of the Bunun tribe, traditionally a test of archery skills to mark the coming of age of the tribe’s males.

Dajia Mazu Pilgrimage This eight-day, seven-night pilgrimage comprises one of the world’s biggest religious festivals, with worshippers parading a caravan containing one of the island’s most revered Mazu deities around a circuit before returning it to its mother temple in Dajia. Always preceding Mazu’s birthday celebration, the pilgrimage is part of the month-long Dajia Mazu Culture Festival.

Mazu’s Birthday Lunar March 23. One of Taiwan’s most important folk festivals, celebrating the birthday of Mazu, goddess of the sea, the island’s most popular folk deity. Mazu deities are returned to their “mother temples” on this day to be blessed and increase their spiritual powers. The liveliest celebrations are held at Dajia’s Zhenlan Temple, Beigang’s Chaotian Temple and Lugang’s Tianhou Temple.

Labour Day May 1 (P). Celebrates workers’ rights and the eight-hour workday in line with international convention.

Cleansing Buddha Festival Lunar April 8. Celebrates the birth of Buddha in accordance with the Mahayana school. Worshippers flock to Buddhist temples island-wide, with monasteries such as Chung Tai Chan, Foguangshan and Dharma Drum hosting legions of devotees.

Tainan City God Birthday Lunar April 20. Main festivities are held at the venerated Tainan City God Temple.

Dragon Boat Festival ( duānwŭ jié ) Lunar May 5 (P). One of the three major Chinese holidays, featuring dragon boat races held in honour of the poet Qu Yuan who, according to legend, drowned himself in protest after being slandered by envious officials on this date in 280 BC. Races are held in most major cities with waterways – including international races in Taipei, Lugang and Keelung – but the most distinctly Taiwanese are the aboriginal-style races held in Erlong, near the east coast hot-springs resort of Jiaoxi.

Taipei City God Birthday Lunar May 13. Includes fireworks, elaborate dances by temple guardians and a lavish parade in which the deity is carried around the streets surrounding Taipei’s City God Temple.

July/August

Guan Di’s Birthday Lunar June 24. Honours one of Taiwan’s most admired deities, the red-faced patron of chivalrous warriors, misleadingly known as the god of war. Ceremonies held island-wide, but Taipei’s Xingtian Temple hosts the biggest.

Yimin Festival Lunar July. The most important annual observance of the Hakka people honours groups of Hakka militia from the late eighteenth century. The main celebration is held at the Yimin Temple in Fangliao, near Hsinchu, and is marked by offerings to ancestors, music and the ritual slaying of several dozen force-fed “God Pigs” – an increasingly controversial ceremony that is seldom witnessed by foreigners.

Ami Harvest Festival One of the most colourful aboriginal celebrations, centred on dancing, singing and coming-of-age rituals for young men. Although dates vary from year to year, the most important festival of the Ami tribe is generally held in late summer, often in August. Ask at villages north of Taitung.

August/September

Ghost Month Begins ( guǐyuè ) Lunar July 1. The time when the gates of hell are opened and spirits of “hungry ghosts” haunt the living. Daily rituals include burning of incense and paper money, while major festivals are held in Keelung, Toucheng and Hengchun at the middle and end of the month.

Ghost Festival ( yúlán jié ) Lunar July 15. Appeasement ceremonies held at temples across the island. Families offer flowers, fruit and three sacrificial offerings: chicken (or duck), pig and fish. Taiwan’s most famous is the Keelung Ghost Festival, where an elaborate night parade is held before thousands of glowing “water lanterns” are released onto the Keelung River.

Ghost Month Ends Midnight Lunar July 30. On the last day of Ghost Month, the gates of hell close and hungry ghosts return to the underworld. In the month’s last hour, contests called …qiǎng gū – in which men race to climb tall bamboo towers to collect meat and rice dumplings – are held; the most famous is in Toucheng near Yilan, while a similar event is also staged in Hengchun in the southwest.

Thao Pestle Music Festival Held during the seventh lunar month in Itashao Village on Sun Moon Lake, members of the Thao tribe – Taiwan’s smallest aboriginal group – pound grain into a stone mortar with bamboo pestles, creating a traditional harmony.

Armed Forces Day Sept 3. Honours all branches of Taiwan’s military while also marking the end of China’s eight-year War of Resistance against Japan. Big ceremonies at martyrs’ shrines around Taiwan and military parades in the big cities.

Teachers’ Day/Confucius’s Birthday Sept 28. Pays tribute to teachers on the birthday of China’s best-known educator and scholar, Confucius. Unique dawn ceremonies are held at Confucius temples nationwide, with the biggest at Taipei’s Confucius Temple.

September/October

Mid-Autumn Festival ( zhōngqiūjié ) Lunar Aug 15 (P). Also known as the “Moon Festival” – families gather in parks and scenic spots to admire what is regarded as the year’s most luminous moon and to share moon cakes and pomeloes. Since the festival coincides with the autumn harvest, the Taiwanese also mark it by making offerings to the Earth God for a bountiful harvest.

Double Ninth Day Lunar Aug 9. Nine is a number associated with yang, or male energy, and on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month certain qualities such as male strength are celebrated through a variety of activities, including hill walking and drinking chrysanthemum wine; kite-flying is also popular. In 1966, the day also was designated as “Senior Citizens Day”, and since then it has been viewed as a time to pay respects to the elderly.

Hualien Stone Sculpture Festival Highlights the work of local and international stone sculptors (see Hualien ).

Sanyi Woodcarving Festival Held in Taiwan’s woodcarving capital to celebrate the craft. Includes ice sculpting and carving contests (see Sanyi ).

National Day Oct 10 (P). Also known as “Double Tenth Day”, it commemorates the Wuchang Uprising that led to the overthrow of the Qing dynasty in 1911 by revolutionaries led by Sun Yat-sen. Military and public parades and fireworks displays are held in front of the Presidential Building in Taipei.

Retrocession Day Oct 25. Marks the official end of fifty years of Japanese colonial rule over Taiwan on October 25, 1945. The national flag is flown everywhere.

Austronesian Culture Festival International festival of aboriginal cultures in Taitung, designed to instil pride and preserve traditions, using the example of indigenous peoples such as the Maori of New Zealand.

Rukai Black Rice Festival The Rukai tribe’s major festival, named in honour of what was once their staple diet but is rarely seen today. Offerings are made for abundant harvests, and it’s a traditional time for marriage proposals and weddings. The biggest ceremony is held at Duona, usually in late November, in Maolin National Scenic Area.

Ritual of the Short Black People The most poignant expression of Saisiyat (“true people”) identity, meant to appease spirits of a people the tribe are believed to have exterminated. Major festival held every ten years, with a smaller one every other year.

Birth of Bodhidharma Lunar Oct 5. Honours the legendary Buddhist monk, also known as the Tripitaka Dharma Master, traditionally credited as the founder of the meditative Chan – or Zen as it’s known in Japan and the West – school of Buddhism. Rites performed at the Chung Tai Chan Monastery near Puli.

Sun Yat-sen’s Birthday Nov 12 (P). Marks the birthday of Sun Yat-sen, founder of the Republic of China and the Chinese Nationalist Party who is commonly known as the father of modern China.

Qingshan’s Birthday Lunar Oct 22. Celebrates the birthday of the King of Qingshan (Green Mountain), who is believed to ward off pestilence and dispense justice in the underworld. Ceremonies held at Taipei’s ornate Qingshan Temple.

Puyuma Ear-shooting Festival Celebration of the Puyuma tribe, traditionally a test of archery skills. Rituals held near Zhiben, to the south of Taitung.

Constitution Day Dec 25. Commemorates the passage of the Constitution of the Republic of China on December 25, 1946. The national flag is flown throughout the country, but these days Christmas is celebrated.

Travel advice for Taiwan

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Taiwan

• Eating and drinking in Taiwan
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Taiwan
• Culture and Etiquette in Taiwan
• How to get to Taiwan
• Getting around Taiwan: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Taiwan for planning and on the go

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 29.12.2023

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Practical travel guides with less fluff

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

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

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

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

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

Taiwan Trip Planner

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

1. Best Places To Visit in Taiwan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

📍 Taroko National Park in Hualien

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

Top attractions in Taroko Gorge include:

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

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

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

See how to plan a trip to Taroko National Park .

📍 Sun Moon Lake

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

Top attractions in Sun Moon Lake include:

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

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

📍 Other Amazing Places in Taiwan

Taiwan has another endless number of places to visit.

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

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

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

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

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

🍀 My Experience in Taipei, Jiufen, and Taroko Gorge

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

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

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

2. When To Visit Taiwan

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

☀️ Best Time to Visit Taiwan

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

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

🍃 Taiwan’s Seasons

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

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

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

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

🍀 My Experience With Taiwan’s Weather

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

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

3. How Long To Spend in Taiwan

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

🗓️ How Many Days Do You Need in Taiwan?

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

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

See how to spend a week in Taiwan .

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

🍀 How Long I Stayed in Taiwan

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

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

4. Entry Requirements for Taiwan

The entry requirement for Taiwan is straightforward for US citizens.

🛃 Taiwan’s Visa and Passport Requirements

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

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

🍀 My Experience Entering Taiwan

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

5. Budgeting and Cash in Taiwan

Taiwan is a semi-affordable tourist destination for Asia.

💰 Expected Budget in Taiwan

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

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

🏧 Do You Need Cash In Taiwan?

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

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

💵 Are US Dollars Accepted in Taiwan?

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

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

🍀 My Taiwan Trip’s Budget

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

6. How To Get Around in Taiwan

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

✈️ Flying Into Taiwan

Taiwan has four international airports to fly into:

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

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

🚇 Best Way To Get Around Taipei: The MRT

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

Here are some tips when riding the Taipei MRT:

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

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

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

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

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

🚆 Option 1: Train

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

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

You can buy TRA train tickets in two ways:

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

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

🚌 Option 2: Public Bus

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

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

🚗 Option 3: Rental Car or Scooter

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

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

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

🚙 Option 4: Taxi and Uber

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

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

✈️ Option 5: Domestic Flight

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

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

🚲 Option 6: Cycling

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

🍀 How I Got Around Taiwan

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

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

7. How To Stay Safe in Taiwan

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

⚠️ Is Taiwan Safe to Visit?

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

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

🚖 Common Scams in Taiwan

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

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

💧 Is Tap Water Safe To Drink in Taiwan?

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

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

🦟 Does Taiwan Have Mosquitoes?

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

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

🍀 My Safety Tips for Taiwan

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

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

8. Language Barrier in Taiwan

Taiwan’s official language is Mandarin Chinese.

🗣️ Is English Common in Taiwan?

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

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

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

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

🍀 Traveling Taiwan With Just English

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

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

9. Cultural Differences in Taiwan

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

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

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

👟 Proper Etiquette in Taiwan

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

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

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

🍀 My Experience With Taiwan’s Culture

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

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

10. Taiwanese Food To Try

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. DIY vs. Guided Trip in Taiwan

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

🚐 Guided Taiwan Trip

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

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

🗺️ DIY Taiwan Trip

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

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

🍀 My DIY Taiwan Trip

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

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

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

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

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Taiwan Travel Guides

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

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

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A 2024 Taiwan Travel Guide for Planning Your Trip

Last updated on Apr. 10, 2024 by Nick Kembel

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Travel restrictions and visas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taiwan travel planning group.

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

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

Take a Tour or DIY Travel?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Before Your Trip: Flights, Insurance, Apps, Guidebooks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moving to Taiwan?

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

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

Taiwanese History & Culture

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thailand vs. Taiwan: What’s the Difference?

Taiwanese food.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Guide to Feasting at Fengchia Night Market in Taichung

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

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

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

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

How to Binge Eat Your Way Through Keelung Night Market

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

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

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

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

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

Taiwan Street Food Bucket List: 101 Taiwanese Foods To Try

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

When to visit taiwan.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summer in Taiwan: Everything You Need to Know

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

Spring in Taiwan: Everything You Need to Know

Autumn in Taiwan: Everything You Need to Know

Best taiwan travel deal.

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

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

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

Taiwan Travel Passes

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

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

Taiwan Fun Passes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sun Moon Lake Passes

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

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

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

Taipei Fun Pass: Is it Worth the Money?

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

Best sim card and wifi device.

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

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

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

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

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

Taipei: The Tantalizing Capital of Taiwan

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

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

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

Things to Do & Taipei Itineraries

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

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

50 Unmissable Things to Do in Taipei in 2024

How to Spend 2 Awesome Days in Taipei

How to Spend 3 Awesome Days in Taipei

How to Spend 4 Awesome Days in Taipei

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

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

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

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

Hiking in Taipei: My 21 Favorite Taipei Hikes

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

30 Jaw-Dropping Temples in Taipei and New Taipei City

7 Beaches around Taipei You Can’t Miss

Coolest neighborhoods & where to stay.

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

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate Beitou Hot Spring Guide (2024 info!)

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

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

Day trips from taipei.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

40 Day Trips from Taipei You Can’t Miss

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

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

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

Wulai Hot Spring & Old Street: A 2024 Guide

Planning your trip around taiwan.

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

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

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

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

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

How Long Do I Need to Visit Taiwan?

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

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

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

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

Taiwan Travel Itineraries

Here are my recommend itineraries for traveling around Taiwan.

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

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

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

A Simple Taipei & Taiwan 5 Day Itinerary

Visiting taiwan with kids.

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

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

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

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

Taipei with Kids in 2024: Ideas from a Local Family

Best attractions around taiwan.

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

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

Top Scenic Attractions in Taiwan

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

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

A 2024 Guide to Taroko Gorge and Taroko National Park

Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan: A 2024 Visitors’ Guide

A Guide to Chishang, Taitung and Cycling Brown Boulevard

Alishan, Taiwan: A Super Detailed 2024 Guide

40 Unmissable Things to Do in Hualien, Taiwan

30 Incredible Things to Do in Taitung, Southeastern Taiwan

Best cities in taiwan.

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

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

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

20 Awe-Inspiring Temples in Tainan, Taiwan

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

Gaomei Wetlands in Taichung: A Detailed Visitor’s Guide

A Detailed Hualien Itinerary for 1-4 Days

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

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

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

50 Things to Do in Kaohsiung in Southern Taiwan

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

25 Unique Things to Do in Taichung, Taiwan

Best hot springs in taiwan.

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

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

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

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

Lovely Tai’an Hot Spring in Miaoli, Taiwan

Wenshan Hot Spring: Taroko Gorge’s Spectacular Secret

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Sicao Green Tunnel in Tainan Worth the Trip?

Strawberry Picking at a Strawberry Farm in Dahu, Taiwan

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

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

Quirky Xitou Monster Village in Nantou, Taiwan

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

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

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

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

The offshore islands of taiwan.

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

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

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

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

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

Orchid Island, Taiwan: A Detailed 2024 Guide

How to Visit Cijin Island in Kaohsiung City’s Port

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

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

Transportation: how to get around taiwan.

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Taipei

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taking the Regular Train (TRA) around Taiwan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The High Speed Rail (HSR)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special Trains in Taiwan

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

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

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

Buses in Taiwan

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

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

Final Thoughts on Planning a Taiwan Trip

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

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

The Perfect Taiwan Itinerary And Complete Taiwan Travel Guide

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 5, 2024

Categories Taiwan

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

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

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

Taiwan itinerary

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

Itinerary for Taiwan and Taiwan travel map

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

Click here for the interactive map

The ultimate Taiwan itinerary

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

Important things to know when planning a trip to Taiwan

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

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

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

Taiwan travel tips

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

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

Buy an EasyCard

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

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

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

Pick up a Wifi router at the airport

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

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

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

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

Be prepared to use Google Translate a lot

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

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

Our Taiwan trip: facts and figures

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

Where to find great budget accommodation in Taiwan

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

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

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

How to spend a month in Taiwan

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

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

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

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

Day 1 – 3: Kaohsiung

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

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

My recommended activities for Kaohsiung are:

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

Book your Kaohsiung accommodation: 85 Good Time Hotel

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

Day 4 – 6: Kenting National Park

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

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

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

Some of the best places to visit in Kenting are:

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

Book your Kenting accommodation: Light Blue Bed & Breakfast

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

Day 7 – 9: Tainan

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

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

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

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

Book your Tainan accommodation: Tie Dao Hotel

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

Day 10 – 11: Taichung

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

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

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

Book your Taichung accommodation: Modern Inn

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

Day 12 – 13: Sun Moon Lake

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

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

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

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

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

Book your Sun Moon Lake accommodation: Itathao Motel

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

Day 14 – 19: Taipei (part I)

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

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

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

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

Admire the view from the iconic Taipei 101

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

Explore the National Palace Museum

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

Hike the Elephant Mountain trail

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

Visit Chang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

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

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

Eat your way around Shilin Night Market 

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

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

Take a day trip to Maokong

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

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

Book your Taipei accommodation: Comma Boutique Hotel

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

Day 20 – 23: Hualien and the Taroko Gorge

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

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

Some of the best things to do around Hualien are:

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

Book your Hualien accommodation: Honey B Trip B&B

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

Day 24-29: Taipei (part II)

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

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

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

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

Taiwan itinerary 5 days.

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

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

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

Taiwan itinerary 7 days

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

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

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

Taiwan itinerary 10 days

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

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

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

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

Taiwan 2 week itinerary

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

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

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

Taiwan 3 week itinerary

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

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

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

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

Planning a trip to Taiwan: in conclusion

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

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

This post was updated in November 2022.

ViaTravelers

Tuesday 7th of September 2021

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

Monday 4th of October 2021

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

Monday 18th of January 2021

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

Sunday 24th of January 2021

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

Sunday 3rd of January 2021

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

Sunday 10th of January 2021

Hi May Twu,

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

Stay safe and thanks again! Lotte

Tuesday 14th of May 2019

Hi. Thanks for the very informative itinerary!

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

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

Thursday 22nd of February 2018

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

Saturday 24th of February 2018

Thank you, Taiwan is amazing indeed:-)

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

My Top-5 Places in Taiwan

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

Taipei – The City with Everything

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alishan Region – Tea Farms & Bamboo Forests

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

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

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

My personal favorite spot, however, is Shizhuo village , where I love staying in accommodations on tea plantations and hiking through tea farm. The tea produced there is Alishan High Mountain Oolong Tea , the most famous tea in a country that is especially known for its high quality teas.

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

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

Penghu Islands – Best Beaches

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

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

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

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

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

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

The East Coast – The Ultimate Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tainan – Temple Hopping in the Old Capital

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

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

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

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

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

Other Destinations I Love to Visit

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

The Pingxi Line – Best Taipei Day Trips

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

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

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

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

Yilan – Hot Springs & Kid-Friendly Activities

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

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

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

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

Kaohsiung – Arts & Temples

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hehuanshan – Hiking & Sunrises  

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

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

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

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

Lukang – Traditional Taiwanese Culture

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

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

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

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

Yushan – Taiwan’s Tallest Peak

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

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

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

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

The North Coast – Beaches & Harbors

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

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

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

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

Sun Moon Lake – Aboriginal Culture & Tea Farms

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Green Island – Scuba & Salty Hot Springs

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

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

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

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

Taipingshan – Hiking on Old Logging Railways

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lion’s Head Mountain – Sleeping in a Temple

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

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

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

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

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

Orchid Island – Unique Aboriginal Culture

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

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

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

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

Neiwan Old Street – Hakka Culture & Hot Springs

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

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

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

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

Kenting National Park – Beachy Getaway

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

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

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

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

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

Xiaoliuqiu – Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

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

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

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

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

Read This Before Renting a Car and Driving in Taiwan!

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

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

Thank you so much!

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17 Things to See and Do in Taiwan

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip to Taiwan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

• Formosa 101
• Meander Taipei

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

36 Must-Visit Attractions in Taiwan

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

1. taipei 101.

2. National Palace Museum

3. taroko gorge.

Park, Shrine

5. Sun Moon Lake

Natural Feature

7. Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

Buddhist Temple

8. Shilin Night Market

9. yangmingshan geysers, 10. longshan temple.

11. Rainbow Village

12. chiang kai-shek memorial hall.

Memorial, Building, Park

13. Kenting Street

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

17. The Taiwan Black Bear

18. jiufen gold mines.

Historical Landmark, Museum

19. Enjoy a wild hot spring

Swimming Pool

Yushan National Park

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

Maolin National Scenic Area

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

Miramar ferris wheel

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

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

Chimei Museum

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

Fulong beach

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

Xinmending shopping district

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

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

Attend a cultural festival

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

Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms

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

The Most Unusual Things to do in Taiwan

Go zorbing in kenting.

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

Play with some sheep

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

Eat some penis-shaped goodies

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

Buy betel nuts from a scantily-clad lady

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

Go paragliding in Wanli

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

Visit a haunted prison

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

Have a sleepover in an aquarium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Categories Asia , Taiwan

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

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

Best Places to Visit in Taiwan

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

FIRST TIMERS GUIDE TO TAIWAN

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

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

GETTING AROUND TAIWAN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips from Taipei

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

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

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

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

4. Yehliu Geopark

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

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

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

5. Beitou Hot Springs

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

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

6. Yangmingshan National Park

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

7. Kaohsiung

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Taichung

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Sun Moon Lake

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

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

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

10. Dakeng Hiking Trails

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

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

11. Hualien  

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

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

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

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

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

12. Taroko National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Taitung

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

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

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

15. Kenting National Park

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

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

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

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

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

16. Green Island

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

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

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

17. Penghu Islands

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

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

18. Keelung

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

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

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

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

How to Get Around Taiwan?

Trains in taiwan.

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

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

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

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

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

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

High-Speed Train from Taipei to Taichung.

High-Speed Train from Taipei to Tainan.

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

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

TAIWAN ITINERARY HELP

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

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

TAIWAN ON A BUDGET

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

Car Hire in Taiwan

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

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

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

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

Best Time of Year to Visit Taiwan

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

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

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

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

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Friday 27th of December 2019

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

TheWanderingQuinn

Tuesday 7th of January 2020

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

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Where to go in taiwan — 19+ must-see & best places to visit in taiwan.

Taiwan is a small island nicknamed Formosa – a beautiful island with a population of 23 million people. Although it is an island nation, most of Taiwan’s territory is covered with green forests and mountains. The perfect natural scenery has created captivating landscapes, attracting a large number of tourists from all over the world. So, where should I go in Taiwan, where to go in Taiwan and where to visit in Taiwan? Let’s check out our suggested top places to visit in Taiwan and best places to go in Taiwan, best places to see in Taiwan, best places to travel in Taiwan, best places to visit in Taiwan which including 10 best places to visit in Taiwan, must go places in Taiwan, must see places in Taiwan, must visit places in Taiwan, top 10 places to visit in Taiwan, beautiful places to visit in Taiwan as follows!

• Where to travel in Taiwan? — 21+ must-go & top places to visit in Taiwan
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• What to do in Taipei 101? — The fullest Taipei 101 guide, a place that captivates Taipei visitors

Explore Fenqihu old street — What to do in Fenqihu in a day trip?

Join us to discover some of Taiwan’s tourist attractions that impress visitors with their dynamic and futuristic vibes. On top of that are majestic natural landscapes of long picturesque coastlines, overlapping mountains, vast forests, and calm rivers and lakes.

Tourist attractions in Taipei (#best places to visit in taiwan)

Taipei 101 tower is the pride of the Taiwanese people and one of the symbols of Taipei City. After 5 years of construction at a cost of up to 1.76 billion USD, this was once the tallest tower in the world.

With the height of a skyscraper and unique architecture, it is one of the world’s architectural landmarks and a tourist destination in Taiwan that you cannot miss. In addition to admiring the building’s grandeur, visitors can experience the high-class services inside the tower.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (#best places to visit in taiwan)

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a monumental destination that marks the ups and downs of history. Along with it is the distinctive traditional Chinese architecture that invites visitors to learn about its story and great design.

Located in a large square, the memorial site is a white-walled building with blue tiles, and inside is a statue of Chiang Kai-shek. Coming here, you will be able to admire and take pictures of the vast amazing landscape as well as have the opportunity to learn more about Taiwan’s history.

Ximending Night Market (#where to visit in taiwan)

If you want to enjoy the crowded and bustling atmosphere while shopping and trying delicious street foods, Ximending Night Market will be your promised land. Ximending Night Market is a bustling tourist destination in Taiwan, attracting millions of travelers to visit and shop. Especially, this is also home to various specialties that you can purchase as gifts for your family and friends.

Yangmingshan (#top places to visit in taiwan)

Conquering Yangmingshan is the dream of many travel nomads who love exploration and adventure. During the journey to conquer the mountain, you will have to walk along a small path on the mountainside. The landscape on the road features reed meadows and poetic lily fields, which will make your trip more memorable.

Moreover, when reaching the top of Yangmingshan, beautiful nature scenery opens up in front of you with an immense and astonishing observation point. Challenge yourself once with a trekking tour to conquer Yangmingshan.

Jiufen Village

One of the famous attractions in Taiwan that draw millions of visitors every year is Jiufen Village in the Taipei metropolitan area. It is an ancient tiny village located halfway up the mountain with only one small entrance path. Along the road, unique scenery and many snacks and souvenirs for sale will make you fascinated.

In addition to sightseeing and taking photos at nostalgic corners, don’t forget to enjoy the famous specialties here such as Yuyuan, Cao Zhi Gao, Hei Tang Gao, Yuwan, and so on.

Fulong Beach (#must visit places in taiwan)

Since it is an island, the beautiful beaches are the top-notch places in Taiwan that visitors cannot miss. During your trip to Taipei, you should visit the impressive Fulong Beach with its long stretch of white sand and clear blue sea.

Particularly, Fulong Beach has pale yellow quartz sand, which creates a sense of pleasure at the touch. Moreover, you can visit the occasional festival here to build sand statues in large and small scales with vivid shapes.

At Fulong Beach, there are many interesting activities that you should participate in such as sailing, surfing, and water sports. The ticket price to the amusement park is about NT$100.

Yehliu Geopark

Yehliu Geopark receives a lot of positive feedback from tourists as an ideal tourist destination in Taiwan if you are interested in learning about nature and geology. Here, you will have the opportunity to admire the artistic masterpiece of nature such as boulders eroded by the sea wind, creating unique and interesting shapes.

To arrive at Yehliu, you should visit Taipei first then take a taxi or bus to travel a distance of about 41 km.

The name Yehliu came from the Spanish abbreviation “Punto Diablos” which means Devil’s Nose. Yehliu Geopark has a length of 1.7 kilometers and the widest part of the mainland reaches more than 300 meters.

Tourist attractions in Taichung (#best places to go in taiwan)

Sun moon lake.

A well-known sightseeing place in Taichung is Sun Moon Lake. This is the largest freshwater lake in Taiwan, located at an altitude of over 760 meters. The scenery here is really lyrical and you can enjoy a truly relaxing vacation.

In addition, you can try other activities at Sun Moon Lake such as mount climbing, cycling, and kayaking, or check out some Taiwan tours for more interesting experiences.

Taroko National Park (#best places to go in taiwan)

Taroko National Park is located in the gorge of Mount Taroko, extending from Taichung through Nantou to Hualian with an area of almost 1 million square kilometers. Coming here, you will be overwhelmed by the majestic beauty of the mountains when enjoying the sense of harmony with nature.

This famous Taiwan tourist destination possesses craggy mountains, evergreen forests, majestic waterfalls, and wild pristine sceneries. The place best suits travelers who love to explore the primal natural beauty.

Wen Wu Temple (#where to go in taiwan)

Wen Wu Temple, which worships Guan Gong and Confucius, is located in Taichung near Sun Moon Lake. This temple was built according to the typical architecture of temples in Northern China.

With a massive scale, the ornaments and sculptures here will take visitors’ breaths away. Coming here, you will feel like you are lost in a fairyland. Everything is so light and pure, helping you get rid of all your sorrow and worries about life.

Cingjing Farm (#where should i go in taiwan)

Cingjing Farm in Taichung is also one of the best attractions in Taiwan which welcomes a lot of tourists annually. Cingjing Farm is located on a large steppe, highlighted by long stretches of green lawns. Just coming up here to breathe in the air will definitely make you feel at peace. Besides, you will have the opportunity to admire the lovely sheep running around in the meadow, which is an image that visitors never forget.

Not only that but Cingjing Farm is also considered “Switzerland in Taiwan” because of its height of over 1,700 meters above sea level. This makes the climate of Cingjing Farm fresh, cool, and pleasant. More specifically, you can see the sheep shearing show performed by the staff at this farm. If you have time to stay longer, you can enjoy the delicious fresh cabbage and bamboo shoot soup.

Tourist attractions in Tainan (#where to go in taiwan)

Qigu salt mountain (#where should i go in taiwan).

The next Taiwan tourist destination is located in Tainan metropolitan area. Qigu Salt Mountain is a popular place that provides more than 60% of total salt production in Taiwan. Although it is a bit far from the town which takes you about two hours for two bus lines, Qigu is a place worth your experience.

With an area of ​​more than two hectares, the entire place is covered with a white color of salt that looks like snow. There are stairs for visitors to easily climb to the top of the salt mountain to have the best view and take photos of this unique mountain.

Confucius Temple – Fuzhong Ancient Street (#beautiful places to visit in taiwan)

Confucius Temple is a place for the altar and worship of Confucius and his sages. On the left side of the temple is the national school of literature while on the east and west sides are the halls called “Daoli” and “Dacheng”. Though situated in the busy downtown street, you will feel the sanctuary and serenity here as you step through the temple gate.

Fort Zeelandia – Anping Old Fort

Fort Zeelandia, also known as Anping Old Fort, is a construction built by the Dutch in the 17th century. The exterior of the fortress was made from ancient red bricks that look really solid. Above it is an observation tower, but currently, visitors are not allowed to enter this area.

On the premises, there stands a statue of General Zheng Chenggong, who reclaimed Tainan from the Dutch. Inside the fortress displays many ancient artifacts and provides information on the history of Tainan. This is an ideal place to visit in Taiwan for those who would love to learn about history.

Cijin Island (#beautiful places to visit in taiwan)

In Kaohsiung, Cijin Island is a destination that attracts many foreign and local tourists. This place is known for the impressive landscape of the ocean and the fresh seafood dishes.

Here, visitors can also participate in activities such as kite flying and visiting the windmill farm, the Cihou lighthouse, or the fortress nearby.

Fo Guang Shan

This is one of the top spiritual tourist destinations in Kaohsiung known as the “Buddhist capital”, which welcomes a large number of tourists. Fo Guang Shan is home to hundreds of statues of all sizes and many massive temples in an area of more than a hundred hectares.

Right from the gate, you can see the massiveness and magnificence of this construction with many exotic penjing. Eight stupas of 88 meters high stretch on both sides of the gravel road, shaded by green trees and flowers. The most significant artifact here is the bronze Buddha statue “Fo Guang Big Buddha” – the world’s tallest Buddha statue reaching 108 meters high.

The tourist attraction Lotus Pond, also known as Lianchihtan, will take you to a fairyland like the one you see in an incredible watercolor painting. This is a grand artificial lake surrounded by twenty temples with majestic dragon and tiger statues in front of the gates.

Spring and Autumn Pavilions

Spring and Autumn Pavilions, or Chunqiu Ge, are prominent Taiwanese tourist destinations located right in Kaohsiung City. This complex is about 700 meters from the dragon and tiger pagodas of Lotus Pond. The pavilions were constructed in 1953 with the purpose of building a place to worship Guan Gong in Taoism.

Spring and Autumn Pavilions are famous for their unique design and the beauty of this building is still preserved to this day. Besides, their location on the open lake is also an attractive feature for many tourists. After visiting Lotus Pond, you can easily go to Spring and Autumn Pavilions.

The island of Taiwan has many attractive and interesting destinations, from the natural scenery and culture to cuisine and people. With the above list of 18 tourist destinations in Taiwan, this post will help you find the best options for a trip full of fun experiences and memories.

Check out more information for your next journey to explore a new land. If you need to book cheap flights, hotels, and tours to Taiwan, don’t forget to search for great activities and offers in advance.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Taipei you can refer to

• [SALE] Taoyuan Airport MRT Ticket & Exclusive Shopping Coupon
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• Taipei Popular Sightseeing Private Car Charter : Jiufen, Pingxi, and North Coast (Chinese/English/Korean)
• Northeast Coast Scenic Day Tour
• Jiufen Shuttle Bus from Ximen
• Yehliu, Shifen, and Jiufen Day Tour with Korean and English Speaking Guides
• [10% Off + 1 Extra Free Day] 4G SIM Card (TW Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan from Chunghwa Telecom
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• [Sale – Taiwan Food Promo] Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Discounted Ticket from Taipei
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• THSR Exclusive Discount One Way Ticket from Taoyuan (Two Tickets for the Price of One)

Are you looking for more Jiufen travel guide and top things to do in Jiufen: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Jiufen day trip from Taipei — How to spend 1 perfect day in Jiufen? and  Jiufen Shifen itinerary: Jiufen Shifen day trip — How to visit Jiufen and Shifen in one day from Taipei ?

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16 Unmissable Things To Do In Tainan, Taiwan

When people travel to Taiwan, they often visit Taipei, Kaohsiung, or Taichung, and rarely explore past these major cities.

Tainan is somewhat of a hidden gem in Taiwan, which seeks to challenge this status quo.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, there are so many things to do in Tainan that make it worthy of a pitstop on anyone’s travel plans.

From ancient temples to beautiful parks to delicious street food and bustling night markets, Tainan has so many attractions that will captivate you with its charm.

But if you’re not sure what to do in Tainan and why it’s worth a visit, keep reading to discover our insider travel tips and knowledge on Tainan for those looking for the best places to see, eat, stay, drink, and explore.

Is Tainan Worth Visiting?

• 1. Explore Tainan's Temples

2. Visit the National Literature Museum

Shanghai steamed pork buns | 上海好味道小籠湯包.

• Vonny's Garden Vegetarian Restaurant | 綠素界花果茶餐飲坊

Shangri-La Hotel | 香格里拉

4. explore the night markets, 5. wander around anping, 6. mingle with the locals in hai an r, 7. shop till you drop, 8. relax in tainan park, 9. attend a festival in tainan.

• 10. Visit Tainan County's Monkey Mountain

11. Visit The Hot Springs in Guanzling

12. hang out in blueprint cultural & creative park, 13. take a trip to taijiang national park, 14. see chihkan tower, 15. visit chimei museum, 16. hike qigu salt mountain.

Tainan is absolutely worth visiting. It’s the oldest city in Taiwan and is also the former capital, so it’s steeped in Taiwanese culture and history.

Although by western standards Tainan is a large city, it does not feel like a metropolis.

It has a distinctly old heritage city feel, and because it’s less explored by international visitors, it offers an authentic experience to anyone who travels there.

There is also a lot of support for the fine arts in Tainan. There are some fantastic modern art galleries and even art street.

Things to Do in Tainan

From historic landmarks to jaw-dropping nature sites, be sure to add the following attractions to your Tainan itinerary.

1. Explore Tainan’s Temples

There are a lot of temples in Taiwan, but as the oldest city, Tainan has an especially high concentration of them, several of which are very well-known.

The Tainan Confucius Temple is one of the most famous in the city, and dates back several centuries – though it has undergone renovations over the years and today looks like it was built yesterday.

It showcases traditional Taiwanese folk culture and has some of the most beautiful designs and reliefs.

Another prominent temple worth checking out is the Tainan Grand Matsu Temple, or Grand Mazu Temple as it’s sometimes known, which is the largest temple in Tainan.

This temple was the first Mazu temple built by the Taiwanese government, and is dedicated to the The Heaven God Mother – the most worshipped in Taiwan.

It therefore attracts hundreds of visitors each day, from around the world, and is one of the best places to glimpse into the country’s religious and cultural practices.

If you have more time, the Lady Linshui Temple and Baihe Lady Linshui Temple, which hold great historical and spiritual significance, are worth exploring.

The National Literature Museum is also an excellent place to learn about the country’s culture and history.

Established in October 2003, it holds the distinction of being the first national museum dedicated to literature in Taiwan.

Housed in the former Tainan Prefecture Office, a building constructed in 1916, this museum showcases the development of Taiwanese literature from ancient times to the modern era.

As you wander its halls, explore its extensive collection of Chinese, Taiwanese, and Japanese literary works, which allow you to gain insights into the rich literary heritage of the region.

3. Try The Local Delicacy

Taiwanese people are passionate about food, especially snacks, and Tainan is famous for having many of the best in the country.

In Taiwan most restaurants are small, only serve a few items, and have a specialty that they’re known for.

Since Tainan is so old, many of the recipes date back to the city’s early days during the Qing Dynasty.

Needless to say, street food stand and restaurant hopping is a fantastic experience here.

Be sure to try an oyster omelette, by far Tainan’s best-known specialty. Also, don’t forget to drink pearl milk tea, otherwise known as bubble tea, which originates in Taiwan.

If you get the chance, try some peking duck (about $8-9 USD for a whole duck), as well as coffin bread.

In Taiwan, it’s the small dumpy-looking restaurants with hundreds of years of history behind them that are best-known and are highly recommended. Here are a few of my favorite places to eat:

This restaurant is famous countrywide for its soup dumplings, but all the dumplings are fantastic!

There’s no English menu, so if you don’t speak Chinese you will either need to enlist some help or resort to pointing at other people’s food to order.

Ten steamed dumplings here will run you about $1.50 USD. That’s plenty for most people, but I usually can’t resist ordering a second plate.

Vonny’s Garden Vegetarian Restaurant | 綠素界花果茶餐飲坊

As a buddhist country, Taiwan has some amazing vegetarian food. The fake meat (they even have fake sashimi) is unbelievable.

Vonny’s is a homey restaurant in an old house with excellent vegetarian dishes, great service, and an English menu.

Meals here range from around $2.20 USD for noodles or rice, up to around $8 USD for the fake steak.

Shangri-La Hotels are known to be one of the most extravagant hotel chains in the country.

Most upscale hotels and shopping centres in Taiwan will also have a very upscale buffet restaurant serving exotic foreign cuisines, sushi, steak, seafood, and the like.

They are normally all you can eat and all you can drink (including beer and wine). If you are looking for an exceptional meal, visit Tainan’s Shangri-La for the best buffet in town.

The night markets are, of course, always entertaining. Among the most popular ones is the Tainan Garden Night Market, boasting around 400 vendors and serving as Taiwan’s largest night market.

Opened in 1999, it attracts locals and tourists alike, providing a wide variety of delectable street food and unique shopping opportunities.

Another notable night market is the Wusheng Night Market, Tainan’s oldest operating market since 1984, with approximately 250 market stands and food stalls. Here you can indulge in local delicacies, explore the bustling atmosphere, and immerse themselves in the lively energy of these night markets.

The Tainan Jade Market is also definitely worth a visit. It’s open Monday, Tuesday, and Saturday.

Anping is the oldest neighbourhood in Tainan, which makes it the oldest in Taiwan. It is said that Anping is where Chiang Kai Shek first landed when fleeing China.

Here you will find some of the biggest and oldest temples in Taiwan, the Anping Old Fort, also known as Fort Zeelandia, (which was built by the Dutch as defence against invaders) and beautiful historical character alley lined with specialty food shops and artisans.

Walk down Yanping Street, otherwise known as Anping Old Street, which is the oldest street in the city and is known for its market stalls.

Another landmark in Anping worth checking out is the Anping Tree House, which is a former warehouse that has been reclaimed by nature. It gets its name from the roots of banyan trees that cover the building.

Locals and expats alike can often be found relaxing with friends and people-watching on tea shop patios on Hai An R., Tainan’s ‘hip district’, which is also a fantastic area for shopping.

Hai An Rd. is the location of a city-funded art project, and many buildings are adorned with murals.

The area around Hai An Rd. is also the old center of town and former red light district, so it has a character and charm all its own.

Like I mentioned above, Hai An Rd. has fantastic clothing and jewelry on the road and, especially in the back alleys nearby.

Another great shopping street is BeiMen Rd., the main road in the middle of town that runs past the front of the train station.

It’s also a fantastic place for shopping. If you are looking for cheap computer parts, there are two large computer malls here with everything that you could imagine.

It has very good clothes shops (although not as awesome as Hai An Rd.).

Hayashi Department Store is another popular place to shop in Tainan.

Just north of the train station on Bei Men Rd., you will find the Tainan Park, the largest in the city, complete with a lake and a pagoda suspended above it.

Tainan Park is a picturesque oasis that offers a serene escape from the urban buzz.

Steeped in history, the park dates back to the Qing Dynasty and was once a private garden of a prominent official.

Today, visitors can stroll along winding paths, admire vibrant flowers, and relax by the water’s edge.

Every year, shortly after Chinese New Year, there is an unbelievably dangerous fireworks festival called the Yenshuei Fireworks Festival.

It takes place in the nearby township of Yenshuei. During this festival thousands of fireworks are shot directly into the crowds.

Every Chinese New Year Tainan also hosts a fantastic Lantern Festival. Almost any time of year you are likely to see some sort of parade for a god’s birthday (Daoism has a LOT of gods).

10. Visit Tainan County’s Monkey Mountain

I’m a big fan of Tainan County’s Monkey Mountain, which is a 750 meter high mountain known for its macaque population. It’s about a 40 minute drive east of town near the town of NanHua in Tainan County.

There are fantastic hiking trails and you’re almost guaranteed to see hundreds of macaques, in addition to an enormous Buddha statue and a beautiful temple.

It’s also free to enter, which makes it my top free thing to do in Tainan.

If you want to get out of the city for a while, head to Guanzling, which is home to fantastic hot springs, mud baths, and hiking trails, as well as a pool of burning water (it burns as natural gas bubbles up from fissures in the earth beneath).

Nestled in the serene countryside, Guanziling is a place to recharge your batteries. Soak in the hot springs, which boast medicinal qualities that are believed to alleviate various ailments and promote relaxation.

Nestled in the heart of Tainan, Blueprint Cultural & Creative Park is a multi-purpose park, formerly known as “the First Judicial New Village,” that was once the dormitory for Tainan Prison employees.

Today, it has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity, featuring art studios, shops, and cultural events.

You can explore quirky bookstores, indulge in delectable snacks, and discover local artwork and pieces of handmade craftmanship.

Just outside Tainan on the southcoast is the captivating Taijiang National Park, which was established in 2009 and is famous for its picturesque coastal landscape and marine wonders.

From pristine beaches to lush wetlands, the park is a patchwork of diverse ecosystems, and is one of the best places to see the Black-Faced Spoonbill.

Walk along the scenic trails, grab your binoculars and look out for migratory birds, or just catch the sunset over the ocean, Taijiang National Park is the perfect nature retreat from the bustling city.

Another historic landmark in Tainan is the Chihkan Tower, which was originally built by the Dutch in 1653 as Fort Provintia.

Today, it’s a museum that allows visitors to learn about Tainan’s past, marvel at its architecture, and wander through the tranquil gardens.

The Chimei Museum is a private museum that contains an impressive collection of Western art, musical instruments, weaponry, and natural history.

Established in 1992 by Shi Wen-long of Chi Mei Corporation, this museum is famous for its renowned collection of paintings and classical music instruments from around the world.

The Chimei Museum is also a piece of architectural beauty and is worth visiting for its design alone.

If you’re looking for more unique things to do in Tainan, be sure to discover the enchanting Qigu Salt Mountain.

Although named a mountain, this is more of a hill that reaches approximately 6 stories high, made entirely out of salt. It was once Qigu Salt Field’s salt pile, but when they closed their doors in 2002, the salt mountain was abandoned and the salt naturally clumped together, making it easy to climb.

Once at the top, you’ll witness panoramic views of the surrounding landscape of the Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Getting To and Around Tainan

There are lots of budget airlines in Asia that fly to Taiwan. Some of the most common are Tiger Airways, when travelling to or from Singapore, or Cebu Pacific when travelling to or from the Philippines.

You’ll find plenty of Air Asia flights when travelling to or from Malaysia, as well as Cathay Dragon, the budget version of Cathay Pacific, if passing through Hong Kong.

It’s really not worth the money or trouble to fly inside of Taiwan. You can easily get to the Taiwan high speed rail from Taipei, which is much more convenient.

Note that Tainan HSR Station is located outside the city center, and you will need to catch another train from Shalun Railway Station (5 minutes walk away and connected by a walkway, so you won’t get lost) to Tainan Train Station.

Although Taiwan has a good local train system, I much prefer to travel between cities by bus. The cost is similar, but the busses are incredibly luxurious.

I strongly recommend travelling by HoHsin (the red bus). Each seat is the size of a Lazy Boy, has massage settings, and its own screen for watching moves and playing video games.

The price is comparable to a train ticket, and they have service between major cities at least once an hour 24 hours a day.

When it comes to getting around Tainan, the bus system is very difficult to navigate and seldom used.

Taxis, however, are quite affordable. You can get to most places in the city for $3-6 USD.

Renting a scooter is also a good option, as they are better than cars for navigating the crowded streets. There are several scooter rental shops behind Tainan Station, and scooters can be rented for $25-30 USD/day.

Best Time of Year to Visit Tainan

The best time of year to visit Tainan is November and December, which are the months when the weather is by far the most pleasant.

It’s like North American summer. Not too hot, nice and dry, sunny most days.

Where to Stay in Tainan

When visiting Tainan, there are several areas that offer good accommodation and are close to the major tourist attractions and landmarks.

The West Central District is a popular choice, known for its bustling atmosphere and numerous attractions.

If it’s your first time, I recommend staying in the Anping District, with its historical sites and charming Old Street, it offers a more authentic experience.

For those seeking a tranquil stay, the Fort Provintia area provides a peaceful ambiance.

The Tainan Park neighborhood is also a great area, which offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural landmarks.

A good all-round accommodation is the Kindness Day Hotel which is centrally located in the city center, has spacious and homey rooms, and a good price tag to match.

Another popular choice for those who want a little luxury is Silks Place Tainan , which is a 5* hotel within walking distance of Tainan city’s historic attractions.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Tainan

I love Tainan because the locals are so incredibly warm and friendly. It’s a city that’s so vibrant, so charismatic and so unique, that I want every traveler to discover it.

I hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Tainan and gave you some inspiration for what to do there. You may also like these posts: 19 Awesome Things To Do In Taipei, Taiwan and 20 Best Things to Do In Taiwan With Kids

Bio: Matt Gibson is a travel writer, photographer, blogger, who is passionate about eco-friendly adventure travel. Matt lived in Taiwan for six years, founded an island-wide magazine called Xpat Matt , and speaks Mandarin Chinese like a four-year-old with a lisp.  Matt’s Adventure Travel Blog ,  Twitter  

The 15 best experiences you can have in Taiwan

Oct 19, 2023 • 12 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Take your pick of 15,000 temples

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Sunbathe on Jibei Sand Tail, Penghu Islands

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

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

3. Explore urban Tainan on foot

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Hike along Swallow Grotto at Taroko Gorge 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Do a homegrown coffee crawl and buy beans

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

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

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

7. Enjoy a feast at Miaokou Night Market, Keelung 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Be wowed by the National Palace Museum, Taipei

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Follow ancient hunting trails through forests in Wulai

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

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

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

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

There are 16 recognized indigenous tribes in Taiwan. Though long suppressed, tribal culture and pride have made a remarkable turnaround in the 21st century. Begin your understanding at the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines in Taipei or the Museum of Prehistory in Taitung.

See their paintings and installations at the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts , a world-renowned authority on Austronesian art, and hear them read their poems at Tainan’s Museum of Taiwan Literature. 

Then check into an underground homestay run by Yami islanders on beautiful Lanyu Island, preferably during the flying fish season, or consider a visit to the communally run Smangus, a high-mountain center of Atayal culture.

In summer, head to the east coast for indigenous surfer towns and exuberant festivals celebrating harvests, coming of age, and a deep love of live music. 

Local tip: Sample Amis delicacies in Hualien . You can do so at the indigenous stalls in Dadongmen Night Market or at Amis-run Mu-Mang. 

14. Relax in Beitou’s hot springs 

Taiwan's ground surface has plenty of fissures, which gives rise to an abundance of spring sources hard to match anywhere on the globe. Locals believe the waters are effective for everything from soothing muscles to conceiving. 

If you like to soak in stone, wood or marble pools with mountain views, head to Beitou , Wulai or Taian. For wild impromptu dips, tread deep into valleys for a pristine wild spring like Lisong Hot Spring  (often considered the most beautiful of them all), or make your way to Green Island for one of the world’s three seawater hot springs. 

15. Tour the Kavalan Distillery to see how Taiwan’s single malts are made 

Whisky lovers, you’re in luck. Taiwan is a country of whisky drinkers, and they’re not only sipping imported Laphroaig or Hibiki – Taiwan’s own award-winning Kavalan is a huge favorite. The world seems to agree – at the Asia round of World Whisky Masters 2022, the homegrown label scooped up 10 golds plus a Master Medal.

You can try Kavalan on the rocks or in a smoky martini at one of the country’s many exquisite cocktail bars, such as Taichung’s Goût and Taipei’s Ounce , but you can also tour the distillery in Yilan for free and sample the single malts. 

Local tip: Taiwan has a lively craft beer scene with microbreweries popping up all over, but it’s best to taste homegrown beer in a bar such as Zhangmen , Le Blé d’Or and Taihu .

This article was first published November 2022 and updated October 2023

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The 8 most budget-friendly destinations to visit in Asia this year

Bengaluru, Udon Thani, Narita – embark on an affordable adventure this summer through Asia’s most budget-friendly destinations for 2024.

Agoda, the popular online travel agency, surveyed to determine the most budget-friendly destination in Asia for 2024 by comparing the average room rates across top destinations in the Asia-Pacific region. This exclusive list features Udon Thani from Thailand as the top-ranked destination, followed by Surabaya in Indonesia, Hue in Vietnam, and Kuching in Malaysia. These cities offer affordability and unique experiences within their respective countries, with Bangalore standing out as India’s most budget-friendly destination.

Discover the most budget-friendly summer destinations in Asia 2024

Udon thani, thailand – (thb 1,026).

Ranked first in Asia, Udon Thani offers affordability without compromising on cultural and natural richness. Explore archaeological wonders such as Kham Chanot, the Red Lotus Sea, and Phu Phra Bat Historical Park.

Surabaya, Indonesia – THB 1,429

Located on Java island in Indonesia, Surabaya blends the traditional and the modern along the coast. Discover the myth of Sura and Baya as you navigate the bustling streets of the port city through its Javanese, Chinese, and Arab influences. Explore the nightlife, local cuisine and culture at Pasar Atum and Townsquare Surabaya.

Hue, Vietnam – THB 1,576

Former home of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue is steeped in history, making it a fascinating destination in Vietnam. Explore the UNSECO-enlisted Hue Citadel and the tombs of past emperors. Also famous for its cuisine, the Dong Ba Market is the centre for relishing world-class Vietnamese dishes like Banh Khoai and Banh Beo.

Kuching, Malaysia – THB 1,796

The capital of Sarawak, Kuching offers breathtaking nature on Borneo island and showcases Malaysia’s diverse culture. Witness the lush greenery, stunning landscapes and pristine waters of Bako National Park, Kubah National Park, Kuching Waterfront and Semenggoh Wildlife Centre.

Iloilo, Philippines – THB 1,833

Designated as UNESCO’s first “Creative City of Gastronomy” in the Philippines, Iloilo offers a blend of history, culture, delicious cuisine, and nature in one destination.

Bangalore, India – THB 2,016

Dubbed the “Silicon Valley of India”, Bangalore is also the most affordable destination in the country. You can witness India’s past, present, and future through its monuments, bustling streets, and innovative spaces like Bengaluru Palace, Cubbon Park, Commercial Street, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, and Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum.

Explore India’s most budget-friendly destination with our ultimate Bangalore travel guide.

Narita, Japan – THB 2,603

Beyond being a gateway to Tokyo, thanks to the Narita International Airport, Narita offers cultural gems like Naritasan Temple, Katori Shrine, Sawara Town and Boso no Mura, providing a glimpse into Japanese heritage.

Kaohsiung, Taiwan – THB 3,703

The port city on the tip of Taiwan, Kaohsiung is a major trading centre and metropolis. Catch a glimpse of Taiwanese city life through Liouhe Tourist Night Market, Ruifeng Night Market, The Pier-2 Art Center, Kaohsiung Music Center and Great Harbor Bridge.

(Feature image credit: saiko3p/Shutterstock)

The story originally appeared in Travel and Leisure Thailand .

Priyaja Bakshi

Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism at Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. As a former Food Writer at NDTV, she can help you find the best places to eat in Delhi!

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How to Watch the Brilliant Lyrid Meteor Shower This Month

Fiery streaks will illuminate the night sky from April 15-29, with the spectacle’s peak occurring from April 21-22

Daily Correspondent

The highly anticipated total solar eclipse has come and gone—but astronomy aficionados have another reason to look up this month. Starting Monday, the Lyrid meteor shower will light up the night sky around the world.

Occurring each year in mid- to late April, the Lyrids typically produce 10 to 20 bright, fast meteors per hour at their peak, but they have been known to produce heavier showers of up to 100 meteors per hour. This year, the Lyrids will run from April 15 to April 29, with the peak taking place on the evening of April 21 to the early morning hours of April 22.

Ready for another skyward spectacle? Here’s what you need to know if you’re hoping to watch the Lyrids.

Where do the meteors come from?

The Lyrids are one of the oldest known meteor showers. Astronomers in China spotted them and made the first recorded observations of Lyrid meteors in 687 B.C.E., which means humans have been gazing upon the shower for at least 2,700 years, according to NASA .

As with other meteor showers, the Lyrids occur when Earth passes through the debris field of a comet—in this case, it’s the comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher . The comet is named after A. E. Thatcher , an amateur astronomer who first observed it on April 5, 1861.

C/1861 G1 Thatcher has a long trip around the sun—it takes the comet more than  415 years to complete a full orbit. This drawn-out journey means the year of its discovery—1861—was also the last time the comet Thatcher made its closest approach to the sun, known as the perihelion . The next time Thatcher will enter the inner solar system will be around the year 2278, according to EarthSky .

As the comet hurtles through space, it leaves behind a trail of dust and rock. When the Earth passes through Thatcher’s path, some of those pieces enter the atmosphere and burn up, creating fiery streaks of light in the process—which are often referred to as “shooting stars.” Lyrid meteors typically fly through the atmosphere at speeds of 29 miles per second, per NASA.

To viewers on Earth, the Lyrids appear to originate near the constellation Lyra , a point known as the shower’s radiant. Lyra’s brightest star—and one of the brightest stars in the sky, period—is Vega, which can make the constellation easy to find.

Most years, the Lyrids produce an average of 18 meteors per hour at their peak. But certain years have rare outbursts—in 1803, 1922, 1945 and 1982, the Lyrids produced upwards of 100 meteors per hour.

The timing of these outbursts is erratic and hard to predict. Some people have said they happen periodically, with roughly the same amount of time between each one, but “the data doesn’t support that,” NASA meteor expert Bill Cooke tells Space.com ’s Daisy Dobrijevic.

Tips for viewing the Lyrid meteor shower

The Lyrids are not as bright as the August Perseids , nor as fast as the Leonids in November . But they’re worth watching all the same.

This year, unfortunately, the Lyrids’ peak will align with a nearly full moon. That extra light will make it harder—but not impossible—to see the meteors in the night sky. In April, the full moon is called the Pink Moon , and it will occur on April 23, just after the shower’s peak. Sky watchers will have to contend with a bright waxing gibbous moon during the most prolific phase of the shower.

If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of a shooting star or two during the Lyrids, all you really need to do is head outside after dark and look up. To improve your visibility, however, it’s helpful to travel to an area with very little light pollution—like a certified Dark Sky Place , a national park or some other wilderness area. Wear warm clothes and bring a chair that lets you recline comfortably (or a blanket, so you can lie on the ground). Plan to spend periods of at least 30 to 60 minutes looking at the night sky, per BBC Sky at Night Magazine ’s Iain Todd.

Give your eyes 20 to 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness, and try to use red lights (instead of white lights) whenever possible. This also means you should try to avoid looking at your phone screen before and during your meteor-watching experience.

You might be tempted to stare in the direction of the Lyra constellation, but experts recommend letting your eyes roam around the entire sky. Keep your eyes peeled for fireballs, or occasional bright flashes produced by the Lyrids.

“It is actually better to view the Lyrids away from their radiant: They will appear longer and more spectacular from this perspective,” according to NASA. “If you do look directly at the radiant, you will find that the meteors will be short—this is an effect of perspective called foreshortening .”

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Sarah Kuta | READ MORE

Sarah Kuta is a writer and editor based in Longmont, Colorado. She covers history, science, travel, food and beverage, sustainability, economics and other topics.