taiwan tourist tours

Taiwan Tours & Vacations

When Portuguese sailors first saw Taiwan off the starboard bow in 1544, they christened it Ilha Formosa, the 'Beautiful Island'.

And can you blame them? For 400 years communists, capitalists, imperialists, and everyone in between have fought over its mist-shrouded forests, soaring peaks, and plunging coastal cliffs. These days it’s definitely a case of ‘come for the adventure, stay for the stir-fries’, with some of the best fusion cuisines around, top road cycling, excellent mountain trekking, and world-class coffee to boot. Also variously known as the Republic of China and Chinese Tapei, Taiwan is a destination that has most definitely come into its own.

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Articles of Taiwan

Vegan foodie? These 5 destinations are perfect for you

Brunching in Asia: 9 delicious breakfasts you have to try

9 dishes that’ll make you fall in love with Taiwan’s food scene

5 up-and-coming foodie destinations

Why Taiwan should be at the top of your travel list

5 LGBTQI-friendly travel destinations you might not have considered

5 unexpected natural wonders to visit in Taiwan

Taiwan at a glance

Capital city.

23.9 million

(GMT+08:00) Taipei

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Taiwan

Best time to visit taiwan.

While there’s really no bad time to visit Taiwan, some months are more predictable than others.

September to November is the best time to visit when you’ll find balmy nights, rich autumn foliage, and off-peak prices.

Traveling in spring (March to May) is down to luck: it could be clear skies, monsoonal rain, or even a sandstorm blown over from   China .

Swimming is best mid-year (June to August) when the weather can heat up, but there is always the small risk of typhoons.

Geography and environment

Taiwan is a little like   South America   with its spine-like ridge of (often impassable) mountains running southwest through the center of the island. The beauty of this setup is that topography and environment can change very quickly.

You can be cycling through low-lying rice paddies around Taitung one day, traversing the high forest passes of Yushan the next, and then finishing up on the white northern beaches around Fuguei Cape.

Generally, the central national parks and east coast are the most spectacular regions; the west coast is flat and highly developed with urban areas spreading over the river basins and flood plains that lead to the sea.

Top 5 attractions in Taiwan

1. sun moon lake.

One of Asia’s best-kept secrets, Sun Moon Lake is easily the equal of any Como, Bled, or Windermere. It’s a huge blue oasis hidden among the green peaks of Taiwan’s central mountain ranges. By day it’s merely beautiful, but in the blue-gold light of dawn, with mists rolling over the water and local fishermen paddling past, it’s like something out of a fairy tale.

2. Taroko Gorge

They have to shoot a James Bond chase scene through here, that’s all there is to it. Taroko Gorge was made for the cinema. It’s a winding maze of looming marble crags, huge cut-out roads tunneling right into the mountains, rushing river gorges, and looping alpine passes. If you are ever being chased by gangsters in your supercar, you want it to be here.

3. Qingshui Cliffs

Just google an image of ‘Qingshui Cliffs’ before we continue. All done? Now you know what we’re talking about. They’re basically a 21 km stretch of sheer jungle-covered cliffs plunging straight into the East China Sea, with a tiny highway clinging on about halfway up. This is not a journey for vertigo sufferers, but for fans of jaw-dropping natural wonders, it’s a must-do.

An easy one to tick off, since it’ll probably be your first stop in Taiwan. The northern city of Taipei is the island’s capital and offers a beating, chaotic counterpoint to the Zen-like beauty of the southern national parks. If you think it’s crazy by day, just wait until night, when a neon glow lights the sky and lantern-lit markets spring up in the colorful Songshan district.

5. Penghu Islands

Penghu is one of Taiwan’s hidden gems, an archipelago of 90 islands between the mainland and China. They’re remote, but worth the journey, with brilliant beaches devoid of crowds, glorious temples, towering basalt columns, and genuine old-fashioned Chinese hospitality. Penghu is also a windsurfing mecca and a nesting ground for rare green sea turtles. Not bad for one tiny volcanic island chain.

Further reading

Taiwan travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Taiwan?

TAIWAN VISA

Nationals of most countries are eligible for the visa exemption program, which permits a duration of stay of 30-90 days. Please check with your nearest consulate for your specific eligibility.

Is tipping customary in Taiwan?

Tipping is not really common practice in Taiwan, except perhaps in the more high-class hotels. Most restaurants have a service charge built into the price, and taxi drivers will usually return your change to you.

What is the internet access like in Taiwan?

As one of Asia’s more tech-savvy destinations, cyber cafes are common in the major cities. Free Wi-Fi can also usually be found at the local library.

Can I use my cell phone while in Taiwan?

Cell phone coverage is excellent in Taiwan, apart from some of the more remote mountain areas. Ensure global roaming is activated before leaving home if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.

What are the toilets like in Taiwan?

Modern flushing toilets are commonplace in Taiwan, although it can be hard to find a public toilet in large cities.

What will it cost for a…?

Beer = 50 TWD Simple lunch at a cafe = 60 TWD Dinner in a restaurant = 150 TWD Street meal = 40 TWD Train ticket = 20 TWD Bottle of water = 19 TWD

Can I drink the water in Taiwan?

Water in Taiwan is usually filtered, and therefore safe, but use your common sense. Restaurants will generally filter their water, as will most of the drinking fountains. If you can’t find these in the more rural areas, bring some purification tablets to treat the water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Taiwan?

Most hotels and department stores accept VISA and Mastercard, but Diners and AMEX are not usually accepted. For restaurants and small stores, cash is the normal form of payment.

What is ATM access like in Taiwan?

ATM access in Taiwan is exceptional, with most of their ATMs able to withdraw money from anywhere in the world using the Plus or Cirrus system. There is usually a TWD 20,000 limit for cash withdrawals.

What public holidays are celebrated in Taiwan ?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 1 Jan Founding Day of the Republic of China
• 2 Jan New Year's / Republic Day Holiday
• 27 Jan Chinese New Year
• 28 Jan Chinese New Year
• 29 Jan Chinese New Year
• 30 Jan Chinese New Year
• 31 Jan Chinese New Year
• 1 Feb Chinese New Year
• 27 Feb 228 Peace Memorial Day (Additional Holiday)
• 28 Feb 228 Peace Memorial Day
• 3 Apr Qingming Festival /Tomb Sweeping Day (Additional Holiday)
• 4 Apr Qingming Festival /Tomb Sweeping Day
• 4 Apr Children's Day
• 29 May Dragon Boat Festival (Additional Public Holiday)
• 30 May Dragon Boat Festival
• 4 Oct Mid-Autumn / Moon Festival
• 9 Oct ROC National Celebration Day (Additional Holiday)
• 10 Oct ROC National Celebration Day

*Please note these dates may vary. For a current list of public holidays in Taiwan go to World Travel Guide's website

Is Taiwan accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We’re committed to making travel accessible for everyone, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Taiwan generally has   accessibility   in mind when building new infrastructure, however, as a mountainous place there are many natural barriers to those with limited mobility. Outdoor activities such as hiking or visiting national parks are common on itineraries and may be off limits to wheelchair users or travelers for who steps or uneven ground are an issue. Wheelchair-accessible tour buses may be able to be booked in advance and taxis are good value. MRT trains have accessible facilities. Many hotels and guesthouses will have barrier-free rooms, but often cafes and restaurants have seating on upper floors without lifts. Outside Taipei and Kaohsiung cities and towns can lack sidewalks.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Private Family Tour of Taiwan

Classic private tours of taiwan, natural wonders tour of taiwan, private tea tours of taiwan, private food tours of taiwan, private culture tours of taiwan, private tours of taiwan.

Rugged tropical forests, towering sea cliffs, and vast volcanic vistas are just where your Taiwanese journey begins. Taiwan is an island where traditions and heritage fuse with innovation and energy. Where turbulent histories paved way for a powerful future.  We’re the travel company that gets you to the beating heart of the nation, her people. If it’s the incredible landscapes that bring you to our island, it’ll be the unmatched hospitality of the Taiwanese people that will mean you’ll never want to leave. Join us, and experience the life of Taiwan.

Life of Taiwan - Winner of World Luxury Travel Awards

Life of Taiwan was recognised by World Travel Luxury Awards as the best travel company in East Asia for 2021.

This award was recognition for our dedication to customer service with highly personalised tour curation making each and every trip unique and exceptional.

Life of Taiwan - a tour company on a mission!

Our mission is to build the ideal travel experiences.

At Life of Taiwan, we are on a mission to build the ideal travel experience by bringing the beauty of Taiwan and its people to the world in a responsible and sustainable way. Our unique tours offer an authentic and immersive cultural experience that allows you to truly experience the Life of Taiwan.

We believe that the best way to experience Taiwan is by connecting with the local people and culture . That's why our tours take you beyond the typical tourist attractions and into the heart of Taiwan, where you can explore local markets, eat where the locals eat, and even live as the locals do. Our commitment to responsible and sustainable travel means that we prioritize the well-being of the local communities and environment in everything we do.

What sets us apart is our unparalleled level of personalization. We curate itineraries based on your interests and preferences, ensuring that no two tours are ever the same. Our dedication to creating unforgettable travel experiences has earned us a 99% 5-star rating on TripAdvisor, and we're constantly striving to exceed your expectations.

Join us on our mission to experience the Life of Taiwan like never before. Let us take you on a journey that will leave you inspired, enriched, and connected to the people and culture of Taiwan.

Inspire Your Taiwan Tour

Our Family Tour offers a range of activities from outdoor adventures to cultural outings. Enjoy a safe, convenient and accessible travel experience with the entire family.

City. Mountain. Lake. Delicious foods and vibrant cultures. Our Classic Tours make for an unsurpassable Taiwan travel experience.

Straddling the Tropic of Cancer and sitting on the Ring of Fire, Taiwan is an island of staggering geographic diversity and geological phenomena.

Amid high-mountain tea plantations, this tour immerses you in Taiwanese tea culture, leading you through the elegant processes of growing, gathering, drying and brewing.

Enjoy a Taiwan Food Tour, tasting a variety of traditional snacks, teas, and delicious meals in Taiwan.

Explore temples, ancient artifacts, and aboriginal tribe culture on the island of Taiwan. Unlock a history of rich spiritual mysteries on this educational and enjoyable journey.

Awards and Affiliations

What Our Travelers Say

" I knew we were going to have a great time, but I didn't know that this trip would inspire change in my perspective that I will cherish all my life. I would never have been able to have such an intense and in-depth experience without the Life of Taiwan team." Maretta Delacruz, Life of Taiwan traveler

Taiwan Travel Guide

Download this 70 page full color travel guide written by award-winning travel writer Steve Crook with stunning photography by Richard Matheson. Learn about Taiwan’s people, culture, foods, religions and incredible natural wonders!

Meet our Taiwan Tour Guides

Experience the ultimate private tour of Taiwan with Life of Taiwan and our team of expert tour guides . We understand that the key to a successful tour is detailed preparation and seamless execution, which is why we only work with the best tour guides in the business.

Our specialist guides are highly qualified and experienced in a range of tours, including heritage tours , food tours , tea tours , hiking tours , and family tours . They possess extensive local expertise and receive ongoing training to ensure they provide you with the best possible tour experience.

Our tour guides are flexible and understand the importance of allowing you to enjoy your adventure on your own terms. They are well-traveled global citizens, often speaking multiple languages, including Mandarin and English as their first and second languages, respectively. Their passion for their guiding work is a key reason why Life of Taiwan is the best tour operator in Taiwan.

Trust us to provide you with the ultimate private tour experience of Taiwan. Book your tour today and let our expert tour guides take you on a journey you'll never forget.

Popular Featured Private Tours of Taiwan

Private Luxury Tour of Taiwan

Experience the epitome of luxury with our exclusive 7-day luxury tour of Taiwan. Immerse yourself in opulence and indulge in the finest experiences this stunning destination has to offer. From the vibrant streets of Taipei to the serene beauty of Sun Moon Lake , our luxury tour showcases the best of Taiwan's natural wonders and refined elegance.

Enjoy the utmost comfort and sophistication in our handpicked selection of luxurious hotels and resorts. Delight your taste buds with gourmet dining experiences featuring Taiwanese delicacies crafted by renowned chefs. Our private guides provide exclusive insights as you explore iconic landmarks, elegant temples, and vibrant markets, immersing yourself in Taiwan's rich cultural heritage.

Unwind and rejuvenate at exclusive spa retreats, offering indulgent treatments inspired by local traditions . Witness awe-inspiring sunrises over misty mountains in Alishan and be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Taroko Gorge . Immerse yourself in the authentic cultural experiences of Taiwan, visiting indigenous villages and participating in traditional rituals . With meticulous attention to detail, our dedicated team ensures a seamless and unforgettable journey, allowing you to fully embrace the luxury and exclusivity of Taiwan. This is a unique opportunity to create cherished memories while experiencing the unparalleled beauty, cultural richness, and refined luxury of Taiwan.

Book your luxury tour of Taiwan today and embark on an extraordinary journey filled with sophistication, indulgence, and unforgettable moments.

What our customers said about their Private Luxury Tour of Taiwan:

Taiwan travel perfection.

"I felt it necessary to finally write to you and thank Life Of Taiwan for the amazing vacation that Ashley and I enjoyed. We are both very busy individuals and to take a vacation is something we treasure, so when we contacted you to assist us with the planning of our trip, we had to have full confidence in your ability to meet our needs for a great escape. It is without question that you exceeded our expectations. As this was my first visit to Taiwan, I wanted to see a bit of everything without the hassles of jumping on and off busses, trains, tour groups, etc. I wanted to see the natural highlights of the country as well as the famous busy street markets and city life." — Ashley and Michael, USA —

Embark on an unforgettable 9-day Private Family Tour of Taiwan, carefully designed to create cherished moments for your family. Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Taipei, where you'll visit iconic landmarks like Taipei 101 and explore the bustling night markets , indulging in delectable street food . Immerse yourselves in culture as you wander through the National Palace Museum , housing priceless Chinese art and artifacts.

Venture to the charming mountain town of Jiufen , where enchanting alleyways and traditional teahouses await. Release your own sky lantern at the mesmerizing Shifen Waterfall and be transported to a magical world inspired by the film "Spirited Away."

Head south to Kaohsiung and experience the artistic atmosphere of the Pier-2 Art Center. Discover the mystical Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond and soak in the vibrant energy of Kenting National Park , renowned for its pristine beaches and thrilling water sports.

In Tainan , delve into history at the Anping Fort and wander through the ancient streets adorned with historic temples and traditional architecture. Savor the flavors of Tainan's renowned local snacks at the bustling night market, creating a delightful culinary adventure for the whole family. Indulge in tranquility at the picturesque Sun Moon Lake , surrounded by lush mountains and serene waters. Explore the Wen Wu Temple and the towering Ci'en Pagoda, capturing breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings.

Journey to Alishan, where mist-shrouded mountains and sprawling tea plantations create a serene ambiance. Witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over the mountain peaks and immerse yourselves in the art of tea-making as you visit the tea plantations and participate in a tea tasting session. Conclude your family adventure in Taipei , filled with beautiful memories and a deeper understanding of Taiwan's rich cultural heritage . This Private Family Tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, ensuring a truly remarkable experience for every member of your family.

Book your Private Family Tour of Taiwan today and embark on an extraordinary journey that will create lasting memories for your family. Let us tailor this tour to your preferences, ensuring an exceptional and personalized experience.

What our customers said about their Private Family Tour of Taiwan:

Private family tour.

"Gloria has planned our family tour of 13 (grandparents, adults, and teens) to northern Taipei for the Christmas holiday. She is prompt in answering all of the questions and concerns. The tour plan was meticulously executed by our tour guide Mr. Cheng. He speaks fluent English, is very professional, very patient and takes good care of all our needs. We had a fantastic holiday, seeing beautiful scenery of Taroko Gorge, releasing lanterns at Shifen, making pineapple shortcakes at Kuo Yuan Ye. All three generations had fun in their own way. Gloria even managed to meet all our family members on the last day of our tour. What a classy act!" — Nancy, USA –

Private Food Tour of Taiwan

Indulge in a culinary adventure with our private Food Tour of Taiwan, where you'll savor the diverse flavors of this gastronomic paradise. From the vibrant street food markets of Taipei to the local delicacies of Tainan and the breathtaking mountain town of Jiufen, this 5-day tour will delight your taste buds and introduce you to Taiwan's culinary heritage.

Discover the bustling street food night markets in Taipei, such as Raohe and Shilin, where you can feast on iconic Taiwanese treats like stinky tofu, bubble tea, and oyster omelettes. Experience the mouthwatering delights of Din Tai Fung, a Michelin-starred restaurant famous for its exquisite soup dumplings .

Immerse yourself in the art of Taiwanese cuisine with a cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare signature dishes like beef noodle soup , dumplings, and scallion pancakes. Delight in a seafood feast at a local restaurant, savoring the freshest catches of the day.

Journey to Tainan , renowned as the birthplace of Taiwanese culinary traditions. Indulge in local specialties like coffin bread, milkfish congee, and oyster vermicelli. Explore vibrant food markets, where you can sample sweet pineapple cakes, rice cakes, and sun cakes, showcasing the rich flavors of Taiwan.

Experience the charming mountain town of Jiufen, where you'll wander through its narrow streets filled with enticing aromas and sample a variety of street food. Immerse yourself in the art of tea-making as you taste different Taiwanese tea blends and visit local tea houses. Venture to the picturesque Wulai village, known for its hot springs, and savor authentic aboriginal dishes such as wild boar sausages and sticky rice dumplings. Visit a tea plantation and delight in the distinctive flavors of Taiwan's famous Oolong teas.

As your food tour concludes, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Taipei, savoring the culmination of Taiwan's culinary excellence. Book your private Food Tour of Taiwan today and embark on a gastronomic journey through the vibrant street food scenes, traditional markets, and renowned culinary destinations. Let your taste buds explore the rich and diverse flavors that define Taiwan's culinary landscape.

What our customers said about their Private Food Tour of Taiwan:

Top notch travel agency.

"We hooked up w Life of Taiwan via friend who had an excellent experience. Ours was the same. They were efficient and closely monitored the weather situation. We enjoyed varied and unique experiences especially with the aboriginal mountain groups. Our guide spoke excellent Enlish, was a foodie and well versed on all aspects of Taiwan life." — Bernard and Gale, USA —

Private Heritage Tour of Taiwan

Embark on our immersive Heritage Tour of Taiwan and explore the island's cultural tapestry over 7 or 8 unforgettable days. From the vibrant streets of Taipei to the ancient charms of Tainan and the cultural treasures of Kaohsiung , this tour offers a deep dive into Taiwan's rich heritage. Immerse yourself in Taipei's cultural highlights, including the renowned National Palace Museum with its extensive collection of ancient Chinese artifacts. Pay homage to former President Chiang Kai-shek at the grand Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and and enjoy panoramic views from Taipei 101 , one of the world's tallest skyscrapers. Indulge in authentic Taiwanese street food at bustling night markets.

Uncover Tainan's historical splendors as you visit the Anping Old Fort and the captivating Chimei Museum. Explore the Confucius Temple , stroll through historic streets, and savor Tainan's unique culinary delights. In Kaohsiung, discover the fascinating Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum and admire panoramic mountain views. Explore the enchanting Lotus Pond area with its iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. Indulge in fresh seafood at lively night markets. Throughout the tour, you'll have opportunities to immerse yourself in Taiwan's art scene, from contemporary exhibitions at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum to the creative space of the Pier-2 Art Center in Kaohsiung .

Join our Heritage Tour of Taiwan for a captivating exploration of the island's history and culture. Experience ancient temples, historic forts, flavorful cuisine, and vibrant night markets. Book your Private Heritage Tour now and embark on a cultural journey through the heart of Taiwan.

What our customers said about their Private Heritage Tour of Taiwan:

Great service. great trips.

"After two wonderful trips to Taiwan, each in excess of three weeks, I feel confident in saying that Life of Taiwan is the best travel company with which we have ever worked. Having worked with many travel companies for our more than 20 custom-designed trips through different parts of Asia and probably twice that in other parts of the world, that says a lot! What sets Life of Taiwan apart? First, Maggie, Munchin, Gloria, and their crew listened to us: We said we wanted a trip that would help us understand the history and culture of the country and its people; we wanted great and unique food; we wanted personal interactions; we wanted adventure; and we did not want to shop or go to nightclubs. We got everything we wanted thanks to their careful planning and great guiding! And there were happily no attempts made to steer us into “workshops” or other tourist traps. Second, they were flexible. We were in Taiwan during a period in which the weather should have been great, but an unusual spate of typhoons passing over or next to the island made some of our planned activities and destinations not possible. When mudslides put one of our destinations out of reach, they worked quickly to come up with a great Plan B. We never felt deprived. Thanks to Life of Taiwan and their connections, we had: wonderful home stays in some gorgeous settings with spectacular home cooks; entree into the homes and properties of some unique characters including a leading artist; special treatment in indigenous villages including private musical concerts played on historical instruments; a unique 11 k hike through primeval forests as well as other outdoor adventures; the opportunity to explore the caves and topography of Matsu; and so forth. There were some seriously rainy days, but there was never a dull day. Life of Taiwan arranged excellent accommodations, comfortable transportation options, and patient and knowledgeable guides. What more can we say?" — Jan, USA —

Private Tea Tour of Taiwan

Immerse yourself in the rich tea culture of Taiwan on our unforgettable nine-day tea tour . Explore various tea-growing regions , learn about the history and traditions of tea , and savor the finest oolong teas in the world. Experience the charm of Taipei as you visit the Wenshan Tea Plantation and Pinglin Tea Museum. Delight in tea tasting sessions and gain insights into tea production processes. Journey to Yilan County, known for its tea-growing prowess. Engage in tea leaf picking at the Dongshan River Tea Plantation and indulge in a tea tasting session at Luodong Forestry Culture Garden.

Discover the mesmerizing landscapes of Hualien and learn about tea culture at the Liyu Lake Scenic Area. Visit a tea processing center to deepen your understanding of tea production. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Taitung as you participate in tea leaf picking and tea-making activities in the Chihshang Township. Explore Taitung Forest Park and the Tiehua Music Village.

Uncover the tea secrets of Kaohsiung at the Cishan Tea Plantation. Embark on a tea tasting journey and explore cultural gems like Fo Guang Shan Monastery and the Lotus Pond. In Chiayi, marvel at the Alishan National Scenic Area with its breathtaking tea terraces. Indulge in a tea tasting experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Visit the Wenhua Village in Jiji and the Sun Moon Lake Tea House in Nantou. Immerse yourself in the tea culture of Sun Moon Lake and explore the serene beauty of the Xitou Forest Recreation Area and the Cingjing Farm.

Conclude your tea tour in Taipei with a memorable visit to the Maokong Gondola and Taipei 101 Observatory. Celebrate the end of your journey with a delightful farewell dinner. Join us on this amazing tea tour and embark on a tea-filled adventure in Taiwan. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of tea, taste exquisite oolong teas, and create unforgettable memories. Book your Taiwan tea tour now and experience the essence of Taiwanese tea culture.

What our customers said about their Private Tea Tour of Taiwan:

Spectacular tea tour of nantou county.

"Gloria, the trip coordinator at Life of Taiwan, was very helpful in creating an itinerary for us in a short amount of time with great stops and at our price range. She was responsive and always had good suggestions. Our tour guide Steven very prompt and picked us up at our hotel. He was well versed and his local contacts within Nantou county ensured that we learned about the region as well as the history and practice of tea farming. Nantou County is an accessible destination if you want to learn about Taiwanese tea as it has both green, oolong, and assam tea farms. The region is a hidden gem with a lot to share and low tourism today." — Orange, USA —

Private Hiking Tour of Taiwan

Embark on a thrilling 7-day hiking tour of Taiwan, where breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating trails await. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Taiwan's national parks, traverse majestic mountains, and discover hidden gems along the way. Our expert hiking guides will lead you on unforgettable adventures, ensuring a memorable and rewarding experience. Begin your journey in Taipei, where you'll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. The next days will take you through some of Taiwan's most iconic hiking destinations.

Explore the stunning Yangmingshan National Park , ascending Mt. Qixing for panoramic views of Taipei City and encountering volcanic activity at Xiaoyoukeng. Indulge in the park's soothing hot springs, providing a perfect respite after a day of hiking.

Continue your adventure to Taroko Gorge National Park , where the Shakadang Trail will mesmerize you with its picturesque riverside views and majestic marble cliffs. Visit the Eternal Spring Shrine and learn about its fascinating legend. Overnight in the park for an immersive experience. Next, journey to the awe-inspiring Hehuanshan, a mountain range in central Taiwan. Conquer the Mt. Shimen Trail, renowned for its awe-inspiring vistas of the Central Mountain Range. Spend a memorable night in a mountain cabin, surrounded by nature's tranquility.

The adventure continues to Alishan National Scenic Area , where you'll hike the enchanting Alishan Forest Trail, winding through mystical forests and offering breathtaking views of rolling clouds. Enjoy a scenic train ride through the forest, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of this iconic destination.

Conquer Yushan National Park, home to Taiwan's highest peak. Embark on the challenging Yushan Main Peak Trail, rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas from the summit. Spend the night in the park, surrounded by the serenity of nature.

Conclude your hiking tour at the picturesque Sun Moon Lake . Hike the Xiangshan Trail, treating yourself to panoramic views of the stunning lake. Experience the charm of Ita Thao Village and embark on a boat ride to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the water. With each step, our hiking tour unveils the splendor of Taiwan's natural wonders . Join us on this extraordinary journey, where exhilarating trails, breathtaking vistas, and unforgettable memories await. Book your Taiwan Hiking Tour today and embrace the adventure of a lifetime.

What our customers said about their Private Hiking Tour of Taiwan:

The mountains are waiting.

"We just finished our amazing tour experience in Taiwan with the extremely professional and passionate team from Life of Taiwan. Our point contact ; Gloria , who planned and tweaked our itinerary from our suggested criteria, made sure our confidence and outcome was aligned. We wanted to experience the natural beauty of Taiwan, with its mountains, terrains, local food, culture and also to learn about the aboriginal tribe. The trip had to be slow paced, to allow us to take photos and videos, and to really appreciate the environments. With our family of 4 from Singapore ( including a senior citizen and child ) our 8 day private tour was meticulously planned with our suggested criteria, and we began our journey with a very professional and extremely patient, polite and helpful guide; Joe. What we experienced in our maiden trip was much more than we expected, because of Life of Taiwan really made us appreciate what is called - Amazing Taiwan. We really like to thank especially Gloria and Joe, and we will be back, because Mountains are waiting for us." — Vendra, Singapore —

Private Photography Tour of Taiwan

Immerse yourself in a captivating 5-day photography tour of Taiwan and capture the beauty and cultural heritage of this enchanting destination. Our expert photography guide will accompany you to the most photogenic locations, providing valuable insights and guidance to help you create extraordinary photographs.

Begin in Taipei, exploring bustling streets and iconic landmarks like Taipei 101 and Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. Capture the charm of Jiufen Old Street , which inspired the legendary film, Spirited Away. Venture along the Northeast Coast , photographing rugged cliffs, rock formations, and stunning ocean vistas. Visit Yehliu Geopark for unique natural wonders.Discover the serene beauty of Sun Moon Lake , capturing its mirror-like reflections and ethereal landscapes. Explore Wenwu Temple and Ci'en Pagoda for panoramic views.

Experience the mystical forests of Alishan National Scenic Area . Capture the play of light and shadows amidst ancient trees. Visit Alishan tea plantations and witness tea-making processes. Conclude your journey in Kaohsiung City, photographing Lotus Pond's serene temples and pagodas.

Explore vibrant night markets and indulge in Taiwanese street food. Join our photography tour and unlock your camera's potential. Capture the essence of Taiwan through your lens. Book your Taiwan Photography Tour today and create a collection of breathtaking photographs.

What our customers said about their Private Photography Tour of Taiwan:

Custom private photography tour of taiwan.

"Life of Taiwan Customised Private Tours is a fantastic source to arrange a visit to Taiwan. I was laying over for 5 days after a Cambodian medical mission, knew little about Taiwan, but was curious. Upon contacting them inquiring about the possibility of a private tour, they rapidly replied and together we dialed in on an itinerary that would make the most out of my time there, and satisfy my passion for photography. My guide, Hsi Hua Ceng, awaited me at the airport and off we went. We immediately became good friends and he was a delight to be with. As conditions arose, such as, peak bloom of the cherry blossoms, we altered the itinerary on the fly to maximize the beauty of the sites visited. They selected B&B's and hotels for me to stay in, and even 1 night in a private home. I cannot thank the entire team enough for arranging such a fun and memorable visit to Taiwan, a place I hope to visit many times more ( with a Life of Taiwan tour!!!)." — Carl, USA —

Corporate experiences with Life of Taiwan

Join Life of Taiwan on an extraordinary journey of team building amidst the picturesque tea farms of Taiwan . Our tailor-made itinerary combines the beauty of nature, cultural immersion, and engaging team activities for an unforgettable corporate incentive. Experience the art of tea-making, foster team spirit, and create lasting memories with your colleagues.

Taiwan's vibrant culture and hospitality will instantly captivate your team, setting the stage for an exceptional corporate incentive trip. Venture into Taiwan's serene tea country, where expansive tea plantations stretch across the landscape. Engage in interactive tea picking sessions guided by experienced local farmers. Plucking tea leaves together will promote teamwork, patience, and a deeper appreciation for the meticulous art of tea farming.

Team bonding activities play a vital role in our corporate incentives. Engage in tea-related challenges and games that promote communication, problem-solving, and collaboration. From tea tasting contests to tea blending exercises, these activities will ignite creativity, strengthen teamwork, and foster healthy competition within your team.

While the tea farms are the focal point of your corporate incentive trip, we understand the importance of a well-rounded experience. Discover Taiwan's iconic landmarks and hidden treasures through guided tours to historic sites like Taroko Gorge , ancient temples in Tainan , or vibrant night markets in Taipei . Engage in cultural activities such as calligraphy classes, traditional crafts, or pottery workshops. These immersive experiences will deepen your understanding of Taiwanese culture and provide opportunities for team members to connect on a personal level.

To rejuvenate and pamper your team, we have included spa retreats in our itinerary. Unwind in luxurious hot springs surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. Let the mineral-rich waters soothe your senses, promote relaxation, and restore balance. These rejuvenating experiences will enhance team morale, recharge energy levels, and foster a sense of well-being.

At Life of Taiwan, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service and attention to detail. Our dedicated team will be there throughout your corporate incentive trip, ensuring your needs are met and that every aspect of the itinerary runs smoothly. From comfortable accommodations to delectable local cuisine, we strive to exceed your expectations and create a truly memorable experience for your team.

What our customers said about their corporate experiences with Life of Taiwan:

1st class tour of taiwan in 5 days.

"A once in a lifetime opportunity to travel, expenses paid, for 5 days to the location of my choice- with no time to plan, I sought out a bespoke travel company to maximize my short time, enjoying Taiwan. I wanted lots of cultural experiences, a food tour of Taipei & Tainan, a private cooking lesson, a nature hike, a little R&R, & most of all- to catch the spring harvest of high mountain oolong tea that is so fleeting & weather dependant, hence, difficult to plan around- & Life of Taiwan delivered every last request. Also, having many dietary restrictions & not speaking the local languages, it was a huge burden off my shoulders to have someone taking care of all the details. My husband tagged along & we absolutely loved our experience so much & enjoyed making lifelong friends along the way, Taiwan is now a major destination for many of our future travel plans! I knew we were going to have a great time, but I didn't know that this trip would inspire change in my perspective that I will cherish all my life. I would never have been able to have such an intense & in-depth experience without the Life of Taiwan team. Mark & Muchin were just amazing and the planning and attention to detail was second to none. I can wholeheartedly recommend Life of Taiwan. First class from start to finish." — Meratta Delcruz, USA –

Student and Youth Group Travel Experiences with Life of Taiwan

Experience the Best of Student Travel in Taiwan: Mandarin Education, Team Building, and Adventure, Immerse your student group in an unforgettable educational journey in Taiwan. Our 5-day program combines Mandarin language education, team building activities, and thrilling adventures for a well-rounded student travel experience.

Start your adventure in Taipei, where students will participate in Mandarin language lessons led by experienced teachers. Engage in cultural activities like calligraphy and tea ceremonies to deepen your understanding of Taiwanese traditions. Explore iconic landmarks such as the National Palace Museum to discover Taiwan's rich history .

The program also includes team building activities designed to enhance cooperation and communication skills among students. Engage in exciting challenges, problem-solving exercises, and group games that promote teamwork and leadership development. Visit Taipei's adventure parks for thrilling outdoor activities like rope courses and zip-lining.

While the tea farms are the focal point of your corporate incentive trip, we understand the importance of a well-rounded experience. Discover Taiwan's iconic landmarks and hidden treasures through guided tours to historic sites like Taroko Gorge , ancient temples in Tainan, or vibrant night markets in Taipei. Engage in cultural activities such as calligraphy classes, traditional crafts, or pottery workshops. These immersive experiences will deepen your understanding of Taiwanese culture and provide opportunities for team members to connect on a personal level.

Experience the natural beauty of Taroko Gorge National Park, famous for its stunning landscapes and marble cliffs. Engage in the adrenaline-pumping adventure of river tracing, navigating riverbeds, jumping into pools, and experiencing waterfalls. End your student travel experience with a cultural exploration of Taipei. Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the city's bustling markets, indulge in delicious local street food, and shop for unique souvenirs. Visit the Taipei 101 Observatory for panoramic views of the city skyline. Engage in a friendly Mandarin language competition among students, showcasing your newfound language skills.

This student travel program in Taiwan offers a perfect blend of Mandarin education, team building, and thrilling adventures. It provides an immersive learning environment while fostering personal growth, cultural understanding, and unforgettable memories.

Hear more about our private tours of Taiwan and the feedback from our customers from Tripadvisor

Exceptional travel experience.

"This travel company is exceptional, and I say this from experience. Over the past 30 years my wife and I, together with family members and friends, have made 24 trips to Asia and Africa. For each I worked with a travel agent in the country to be visited to design a customized trip with an emphasis on culture, history, art, food and, particularly, opportunities to meet with the local community. We visited Taiwan twice, in February and October. Life of Taiwan designed adventures that far exceeded our expectations. For example, they arranged for us to stay in two Aboriginal villages, visit and stay with multiple Taiwanese families, stay on two offshore islands and, happily, eat some of the best food I've ever had. I'm anxious to go back." — Morris Raker, USA –

Bravo for another marvelous Taiwan trip

"Bravo again for planning a wonderful tour for my family. Mr Yuen, the driver could not be more attentive and cordial and considerate with my elderly parents. The van is comfortable and even though my parents did not use the wheelchairs , I do appreciate the gesture. There are not enough words to describe Joe. He is kind, thoughtful, respectful, funny, accommodating, easy going and he has excellent knowledge of Taiwan. I am constantly amazed how he managed to tell me every building or statue or temple that I have pointed to. He is so modest that he will tell me I have been doing this for a while and someone else had asked me before’ with a big smile. He shared his experiences as a guide and we enjoyed chatting with him like friends. His knowledge of Taiwan history is so detailed and he definitely educated me about Taiwan. He is so flexible when we needed to change our planned schedules based on my parents physical abilities and he always will still able to find some interesting spots to see. What a champ. I will for sure be back again. Thank you Maggie for arranging the lovely cuisines as we all had gained more than a few pounds. From Taipei to Taichung to Tainan and Kaohsiung in 9 days was not an easy task. The hotel recommendations were excellent as the Grand Hotel has so much history to see, then Lalu has such a peaceful lake view then Silks Club is modernized and new. All of them are so comfortable. Thanks again for being an amazing company." — Cecilia Chu, USA –

Magical Life Long memory

"Our extended family visited Taiwan for the holidays. The logistics of trying to book a trip by ourselves were an impossible hurdle. Life of Taiwan did an amazing job! They coordinated pickups for four different groups arriving at different times and effortlessly managed a flight delay caused by weather. Our all encompassing custom tour included Sun Moon Lake, Taroko National Park, Tainan, Alishan, and finishing with a wonderful stop in Taipei. We experienced wonderful hikes, great meals, beautiful sights, and beautiful culture. Everyone had their own favorite place. My favorite was Alishan. The amazing local guides, Corbett and Irene, gave us a wonderful introduction to the indigenous people of Taiwan. The people of the De’enyana Village stole my heart. Our tour bus was comfortable and our driver (Chang) and guide (Steven) were great additions to our experience. Steven really did a wonderful job sharing Taiwan's beauty and keeping us all moving in the right direction." — Doug Gerdin, USA –

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What Our Customers Say About Us

Hassle free every penny was worth it..

Brought my senior citizen parents with me and decided to buy tour tickets instead just to make sure that we'll be able to release lanterns at the event... A must-attend festival indeed before you die. Thanks again MyTaiwanTour for this convenient tour!

Angel , U.S.

Great guide and great family tour

Our guide, Esther, was awesome! She was able to give us a bunch of history and was accommodating with our two elementary-age sons. The tour is great for young kids when they won't make the full day. Ending at Din Tai Fung is a great concept.

Matt P. , U.S.

Great Introduction to Taipei With Flexible Itinerary

Jett rearranged the typical itinerary to accommodate our wishes. Provided us with excellent commentary about Taiwan, made sure that we were perfectly placed for the changing of the guard, took us to a great restaurant and then guided us through the museum.

Richard J , U.S.

Seven day private tour

Highly recommended. Debby was easy to deal with and more especially patient as we changed our itinerary constantly. Gordon our driver was fun and friendly and happy to change the itinerary to suit the weather, our changing moods, and levels of tiredness.

Douglas99 , U.K.

Like Good Friends Over a Cup of Tea

The best part of this tour is the people who guided us along this trip. The trip was engaging like we were traveling with good friends whom we just actually met that day. These guys created a memorable experience on our Taiwan trip.

Stephen C. , Philippines

Amazing day with Kevin visiting Jiufen and Taipei!

Kevin picked us up with a big smile and a warm welcome to Taiwan. Kevin kept us so entertained and informed that we almost forgot it was raining. We had to alter our day some because of the rain but Kevin had many options for us. We had the most enjoyable day!

mcguireshanealan , U.S.

Excellent private tour!

Excellent guide, very knowledgeable. And great driver! They were able to give us different routes to get to our destinations! Very friendly and kind, too. We were really able to see the main spots in Jiufen and Yilan. The food they recommended was great as well.

Faus Y. , U.S.

Excellent introduction to Taipei

We had an absolutely excellent visit with David. He was a wealth of knowledge not only about tea but about Taiwan itself. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone spending more than a few days in Taipei.

Andrew W. , U.K.

Recommended Tour Around Taiwan - A Journey of Connection

Read a fantastic story from our customer about her trip across Taiwan, visiting many breathtaking natural sites.

Jiufen - A Place of Remembrance

In the enchanting town of Shifen, a second-generation Chinese family from Aruba found solace and unity as they crafted a lantern in honor of their late son, Jordan. With the lantern's heartfelt message glowing against the night sky, their shared moment of remembrance became a poignant memory etched in time.

5 Best Things To Do Around Taipei 101

After shopping and seeing the view on Taipei 101 and... What are other must-visit places near Taipei 101?

Best Places to Visit in Taipei City

Taipei is a city of contrasts, seamlessly blending the modern with the historical. If you only got one day, Explore these essential destinations that you must visit!

6 Things To Do Around National Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

Wondering what to do after visiting Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall? How about visiting more local activities nearby?

Discover Taiwan’s hidden gems

Which Part Of Taiwan Would You Like To Visit?

Taiwan is an island with both natural environments and urban cities.

Click on one of the four icons to check each region’s main feature.

NORTHERN REGION

EASTERN REGION

CENTRAL REGION

SOUTHERN REGION

Northern Taiwan is home to the island's capital, Taipei. This vibrant city is the economic heart of the island. Just outside of Taipei are national parks, soaring mountains, cave temples, tea farms, and ceramic towns filled with culture.

Taiwan's Eastern Region is famous for its natural valleys and oceanic spots along the Pacific Ocean. It's also home to Taroko Gorge, the largest marble canyon in the world, and indigenous communities.

Taiwan's Central region is home to Sun Moon Lake, a natural wonder of Taiwan. Taiwan's tea farms, local whisky, and agricultural roots can be explored here.

Taiwan's Southern Region is known for its beach resorts, warm hospitality, and warm weather. Towering religious statues can be seen in this culturally-rich part of the island.

Recommended Tours

Check our what’s popular among travelers.

Taipei 101 Top Floor Tour

Taipei city and Taipei suburbs One day

See Taipei from new heights! MyTaiwanTour is one of the only tour companies in Taiwan that can take you to THE 101th floor of Taipei 101. After meeting at Taipei 101, walk just one block to Four Four South Village and explore how Taiwan preserves its culture and adapts to the new world at this old military village turned young art museum. Then, return to 101 and begin your journey up to one of the tallest buildings in the world. Learn about its state-of-the-art technology and innovative, architectural design along the way. Once at the top, "walk along the clouds" safely with proper saftey equipment and capture the moment with the building's perfectly placed, pre-installed camera. After you've come down from your high, enjoy exclusive entrance to Bar88 where you will sip innovative drinks and enjoy panoramic views from the 88th floor. Finish the evening at Taipei's most iconic restaurant, famous for its soup dumplings (xiaolongbao). Experience the MyTaiwanTour difference!

Rural Tea Tour

One day Culture and History Tour

Experience firsthand how organic Taiwanese tea is grown and produced at a real operating tea farm in Yilan that still uses traditional tea processing methods passed down by generations. Pick leaves with a local tea farmer at the plantation and learn how they are harvested (without modern machines) and prepared to become tasty cups of Oolong. Then, experience a rare, hands-on experience learning how to roll and roast tea leaves. After a lunch of traditional Yilan cuisine, head to a quaint pottery house and coffee shop for some therapeutic ceramics painting. There, you will learn the ancient art of decorating blue and white China in a DIY class and will even take home your very own souvenir! Discover the beauty of the small town of Yilan with this slow travel experience!

Jiufen Night Tour

One day Adventure Tour

Explore Taiwan's northeast coastline and the mountainous town of Jiufen by night! Before the sun sets, stop by Yehliu Geopark, a relaxing seacoast attraction home to a number of unique geological formations. Then, head to Jiufen, where the lantern-lined alleys of this old mining own come alive at night, creating a magical experience said to resemble scenes from the Miyazaki classic, "Spirited Away." After dinner, relax at a traditional tea house and enjoy views of the illuminated and elevated town before returning to your accommodation.

Around Taiwan 8 Day Private Tour (Classic)

Multi-day Adventure Tour

Take a step back in time with a full day tour of Taiwan’s northern villages renowned for their charm, history, and culture: Jinguashi, Jiufen, and Pingxi. Jinguashi is a quaint, coastal town famous for its former gold mines. Tour the Thirteen Ruins, an abandoned refinery high up in the mountains overlooking the gold and blue Yin Yang Sea of Ruifang. The coastal town of Jiufen is said to be the inspiration for the Miyazaki classic Spirited Away, so expect to be similarly enchanted

Taipei city and Taipei suburbs Half day

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Voyager In Taiwan

Taiwan   Tours 

Before tailor-made your wonderful trip to Taiwan, please take the time to review our standard Taiwan tours for inspiration. Our experts will then tailor and accommodate your specific requests and needs accordingly.

Multi-Day Private Tours

Taiwan  Spirit 

7 Days Western Taiwan Tour

Taipei - Sun Moon Lake - Tainan - Taichung

Taiwan   Wonderlands

7 Days Eastern Taiwan Tour

Yilan - Hualien - Taitung - Taroko - Taipei

The Best Taiwan

7 Days Premium Tour

Taipei - Taroko - Sun Moon Lake

Taiwan   Leisure

7 Days Family Tour

Taipei - Sun Moon Lake - Taichung - Animal Resort

Taiwan   Glories

7 Days Food Tour

Taipei - Taichung - Tainan - Miaoli

Paradise Of Taiwan

7 Days South Taiwan Tour

Taipei - Kaohsiung - Pingtung - Kenting

Tears Of Taiwan

7 Days Hot Spring ( Onsen ) Tour

Taipei - Sun Moon Lake - Tainan - Miaoli

Discovery Taiwan

8 Days Half Round Island Tour

Taipei - Taroko - Sun Moon Lake - Alishan - Taichung

Taiwan   Highlights

10 Days Round Island Tour

Taipei - Alishan - Tainan - Kaohsiung - Taitung - Taroko

Magnificent Taiwan 

11 Days Premium Taiwan Tour

Taipei - Taroko - Sun Moon Lake - Alishan - Tainan

Taiwan Grand Tour

14 Days Round Taiwan Tour

Taipei - Alishan - Tainan - Kaohsiung - Taitung -Taroko

Taiwan Cerulean Tour

16 Days Round Taiwan Tour

Taipei - Alishan - Tainan - Kenting - Taitung -Taroko

Taipei LGBTQ+ Pilgrimage

Taipei LGBT​Q+ Private Day Tour

Offshore Islands - Penghu

5 Days Island Hopping Tour

Taipei - Penghu - Taipei

Offshore Islands - Kinmen

3 Days Battle Island Tour

Taipei - Kinmen - Taipei

Offshore Islands - Xiao Liuqiu

3 Days Charming Marine World Tour

Taipei - Xiao Liuqiu - Taipei

One Day Private Tours

Flexibly arrange your vacation with a day tour.

Taipei North Region 

1 Day Shifen & Jiufen Tour

Taipei - Shifen - Jiufen - Keelung

Taipei Northern Coast 

1 Day Northern Coast Tour

Taipei - Yehliu - Danshui ( Tamsui ) 

Taipei Tea Ceremony

1 Day Taipei Tea Tour

Taipei - Maokong

Tea Leaf Picking

1 Day Tea Leaf Picking Tour

Taipei - Yilan

Sun Moon Lake

1 Day Sun Moon Lake Tour

Taroko Gorge

1 Day Taroko Tour

Taipei - Taroko Gorge

Miaoli (Hakka Culture)

1 Day Hakka Food Tour

Taipei - Miaoli

1 Day History Tour

Taipei - Tainan

Kaohsiung 

1 Day Butterfly Tour (Available from Nov. to Mar.)

Taipei - Kaohsiung

Experience Of Taipei

​Unique activities 

Taipei 

Discover the island paradise of

If there is one island on earth that really has it all, it’s taiwan..

When the Portuguese first laid eyes on Taiwan they named it Formosa, meaning simply, “beautiful island”, and we’d be hard-pressed to argue that they were wrong then or now. Surrounding the island, glittering turquoise waters teem with exotic marine life. Where the sea meets land, a mixture of sheer rocky cliffs and pristine white sand beaches greet the lapping waves.

The coast then morphs into jungle

where wild monkeys and boars roam free, the national bird, the blue magpie, flying in a wave of colors overhead. At the heart of the island is the Central Mountain Range, where myriad summits await intrepid trekkers and early-rising photographers.

Beyond the natural offerings of the island, a sprinkling of vibrant cities, towns and villages lay home to the island’s residents, who themselves hold the key to Taiwan’s greatest charm of all:

ITS CULTURE.

From the soulful chanting of incense-filled temples to the echoing shouts of fishmongers returning with a haul to the lyrical folk singing of an indigenous tribe, each person on the island holds a different piece of the puzzle which when put together makes the floating paradise of Taiwan whole.

Creating life-changing experiences is our purpose.

WildTaiwan is a member of The Wild Collective, an award-winning industry leader with over 20 years of experience curating custom journeys to every corner of the globe. At WildTaiwan, we believe that Taiwan, a land of profound natural and cultural intrigue, deserves to be seen in full, through real experiences that bring travelers into the lives of the island’s people – artisans, farmers, historians and fishermen alike. To us, this is the essence of sustainable travel – putting local people at the heart of all that we do to cultivate human connections and further cultural understanding through travel.

“Whether you like vigorous outdoor excursions or want to uncover the best off-the-map food stalls, WildTaiwan crafts itineraries based on local knowledge and a sense of adventure.”

– October 2023

“Taiwan is home to so much biological diversity. We have a tropical climate in the south, a subtropical climate in the north and snow on the central mountain peaks, where Taiwan has the highest density of high mountains in the world with 268 peaks above 3,000 meters.”

– April 2023

Traveler Testimonials

“Thank you very much for all your help organizing our trip, especially on such short notice. We had a WONDERFUL time!   Our guide did a great job, and we loved spending time with her as a fellow human in addition to as a terrific guide.”

February 2024

“An excellent trip, enjoyed every single minute. ”

“Trip was amazing- every travel piece went smoothly. Every part was just awesome!! ”

January 2024

“A great tour company that we would recommend and use again .”

December 2023

“We had a wonderful experience seeing your beautiful city in the short amount of time we had. We were very pleased and would highly recommend you to our friends. Thank you for providing a great experience for us.”

November 2023

“The trip went really well. Our guide was very good with time and logistics , very enthusiastic and clearly loved to guide which is always great.”

August 2023

“I got back home to the US yesterday and want to thank you for all of your help in putting together a very memorable trip to Taipei. I had great experiences with my guides. They were very knowledgeable and supportive throughout all of the tours. Great personalities.”

“We had a fantastic tour in Taipei and thank you very, very much. Everything was perfect and all your arrangements made our trip and experiences far better than we could have expected. The guide went above and beyond. We give you a 5 star rating! ”

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Taiwan Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

Taiwan is one of the most underrated budget destinations in Asia. It offers a beautiful — and super affordable — mix of east and west, blending the culture and cuisines of mainland China , Japan , and Hong Kong . And all with a fraction of the crowds.

I don’t think enough people visit Taiwan. I spent time here as an English teacher and have revisited the country since. There is a lot to do there: hiking the mountains, eating at night markets, drinking at tea houses, lounging on beaches, and enjoying the country’s amazing nightlife. No matter your interests, Taiwan won’t disappoint — especially if you’re a foodie. The food here is some of the best in the region!

This travel guide to Taiwan can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this underrated island!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Taiwan

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Taiwan

1. Visit Jiufen

Jiufen is one of Taiwan’s most popular tourist destinations. Founded during the Qing dynasty, Jiufen boomed as a gold mining town in the 1890s. Here, you can find all kinds of historic tea houses built into the hillside. The center of the city and its historic streets and buildings are all preserved and look as they did 100 years ago. Try the snacks on offer, visit one of the many tea houses, and do some hiking if you have time. It’s a pretty easy day trip from Taipei but you should aim to come early to beat the crowds. If your itinerary allows for it, consider spending a night here so you can experience it without the daytripper crowds.

2. Soak in the Hot Springs

Especially fun to visit in winter, the Beitou Hot Springs are just 30 minutes from downtown Taipei and you can get there on the MRT (you need to go to Xinbeitou station). There are lots of resorts, spas, and inns in the area which, with a vast array of wildlife and fauna, really feel like you’ve traveled much further afield. Visit the Hot Springs Museum, the Xinbeitou Historic Station, and Thermal Valley (a sulfurous lake nearby that has walking trails) while you’re here. There are also some really cool temples here, including the tiny wooden Puji Temple.

3. Explore Taroko National Park

Located southeast of Taipei, this national park offers visitors a chance to hike through beautiful mountainous terrain and gorges. It spans almost 250,000 acres and is one of only nine national parks in Taiwan. With loads of cliffs and waterfalls to explore, it’s a really stunning place to visit. Head to the Zhuilu Suspension Bridge for some amazing views and to the Eternal Spring Shrine or to the Changing Temple for a bit of culture and history. Some suggested walking trails include Shakadang, Changchun, Swallow Grotto, and Lushui-Heliu. Entrance to the park is free.

4. Visit Taipei 101

Formerly known as Taipei World Trade Center, this was the tallest building in the world from when it opened in 2004 until 2010 (when the Burj Khalifa took its place). Standing 508-meters (1,667-feet) tall, it towers over Taipei. There is an observation platform on the 89th floor (at 382-meters high). You can also go up to the 91st floor for an outdoor platform. If you’re needing some retail therapy (and can fit anything else in your bags), there’s a shopping mall at the bottom.

5. Explore the night markets

Taipei is home to dozens of night markets. Shulin Night Market, Raohe Night Market, Tonghua Night Market, Snake Alley, and Ningxia Night Market are all worth spending some time exploring but there are over 30 to choose from in Taipei alone. The food at these markets is the best (and cheapest) in the city. So much so that a few have even been given Michelin Bib Gourmands!

Other Things to See and Do in Taiwan

1. visit taipei.

Taipei is the epicenter of the country. Here there are sprawling food markets, a wild nightlife, spacious parks, and all kinds of interesting and quirky museums. Plus, the nearby mountains are full of easy and accessible hikes. Be sure to take a free walking tour, visit the National Palace Museum, see some temples (especially Confucius Temple and Bao-an Temple), and visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. I can’t sing the praises of this city highly enough (I lived here when I taught English). For even more on the city, here’s my full list of things to do in Taipei!

2. Go island hopping

The Pescadores Islands (known locally as Penghu) is an archipelago off the west coast between Taiwan and China. There are 90 islands in the region, perfect for exploring on a day trip. You can take a boat tour that visits several islands in the region, allowing you to snorkel, see sea turtles, and wander through traditional aboriginal villages and explore temples galore. Expect to pay around 1,500 TWD for a one-day multi-island tour.

3. See Tianhou Temple

Located in Taipei, this is one of the oldest temples in the city. Tianhou (also known as Mazu Temple, after the deity Mazu, goddess of the sea) was built in 1746 and is one of three major temples in Taiwan from the Qing period. It’s a beautiful Taoist temple filled with mythological creatures, incense, lucky goldfish, and people paying respect to the gods. Admission is free.

4. Hit the beach

The beaches of Kenting on the southern tip of the island are the best place to enjoy the summer weather. White Sand Bay is the most popular beach and a great place to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Other beaches worth checking out are Fulong Beach, South Bay, Dawan Beach, Laomei Beach, and Little Bali Bay.

5. See the Lantern Festival

The famous Taiwan Lantern Festival is held every February/March and involves releasing hundreds of paper lanterns into the sky. There’s also a huge parade with floats, most of which relate to the year’s animal (from the Chinese zodiac). Thousands of people gather to watch and take part. To ensure the environment is protected, make sure you use a biodegradable eco-friendly lantern.

6. Hike Jade Mountain

Jade Mountain (also known as Yushan), the highest peak in Taiwan and East Asia with its peak at almost 4,000 meters above sea level, is a popular hike. If you don’t hike, there’s a special train that takes you to the peak before dawn (150 TWD). Most people do the hike over a couple of days, however, you can do it in a single day if you wake up super early and hike but that will mean over 10 hours of hiking. You’ll also need permits in advance so talk to your hotel or hostel staff as they can help you arrange those.

7. Tour Fo Guang Shan Monastery

This Zen monastery in Kaohsiung is a massive complex with eight towering pagodas that flank the monastery’s Big Buddha (which, at 36-meters tall, is the highest seated bronze Buddha in the world). Built in 1967 and spanning over 74 acres, the complex has a spacious outdoor walkway lined by manicured gardens as well as the huge pagodas. There are also over 14,000 statues of the Buddha here. Admission is free (donations are welcome) and there’s a delicious vegetarian restaurant inside with a huge buffet.

8. Visit the National Palace Museum

This museum, located in Taipei, has a collection of over 70,000 artifacts from Imperial China. Most of the collection was brought to Taiwan during the Chinese Civil War (1929–1947). In addition to their permanent exhibits, there are also rotating exhibits throughout the year as well as a section for children. There are free daily tours in English as well as a detailed audio guide if you’d rather explore yourself. Admission is 350 TWD.

9. See the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Officially known as Liberty Square, this national monument was built in 1976 in honor of Chiang Kai-shek, former president of the Republic of China. He ruled mainland China from 1928 to 1949, and then in Taiwan from 1949 until his death in 1975. The memorial also houses a library and a museum that documents Chiang Kai-shek’s life and career. Tours in English are available daily but must be booked in advance. Admission is free.

10. Take a cooking class

Taiwan is a foodie’s dream and I always overindulge while I’m here. Noodle soups, incredible rice dishes, amazing buns, dumplings, and scallion pancakes are just some of the tasty local offerings. While cooking classes here are a little pricey, I think they are worth it if you really want to learn about the food. The cooking skills (and recipes) make a great souvenir to take home too. Expect to pay around 2,000 TWD for a class.

11. Go hiking

Taipei has plenty of hiking trails just outside town that are easily accessible. There are easy, moderate, and challenging trails, as well as both short and full-day hikes. Some suggested trails to check out are Xiangshan (easy, 45minutes), Bitoujiao (moderate, 2-3 hours), Jinmianshan (easy, 1.5 hours), Huang Didian (hard, 5 hours), and Pingxi Crag (moderate, 2-3 hours).

12. Visit Orchid Island

Located 64 kilometers (40 miles) off the southeastern coast, this lush, volcanic island offers hiking, swimming, diving, and amazing hot springs. There are also underground houses here, built to avoid the numerous typhoons that ravage the region. The island is home to only 5,000 people too. Visit the Lanyu Flying Fish Cultural Museum to learn about local culture. Flights from Taipei take just over an hour and cost around 4,500 TWD.

13. Hike Wuling Peak

For more hiking, head to Wuling Peak on Hehuan Mountain. Located in Central Taiwan, it stands 3,275 meters (10,744 feet) above sea level and makes for a good day trip for anyone looking to spend more time outdoors. The peak here is so high you can actually look down into a sea of clouds below. A round-trip hike takes around 2-3 hours. Be sure to bring a raincoat as well as water and sunscreen.

14. Explore the Northern Coastline

Head to the coast to see the otherworldly lunar-like landscapes at Yehliu Geopark. There are all kinds of unique rock formations here, including one that looks like Queen Elizabeth (which took over 4,000 years to form). It’s a popular tourist attraction so try to get here early to beat the crowds. Admission is 120 TWD.

15. Visit Tainan

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.

16. Explore Taichung

Taichung is located in west-central Taiwan and is the second-largest city in the country. Spend some time walking the Parkway (a corridor of greenery perfect for walking and exploring), visit the Feng Chia Night Market, see the botanical garden, and explore the massive National Museum of Natural Science. If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Taichung Folklore Park which is home to several traditional Taiwanese homes and buildings that showcase the country’s history.

Taiwan Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels dorms with 6-8-bed cost between 300-700 TWD per night. A private room costs anything from 1,000-3,000 TWD. Every place has free Wi-Fi and most hostels have self-catering facilities and include free breakfast.

Budget hotels start at 950 TWD for a small room with a double bed. Most rooms have AC but free breakfast is rarely included.

Airbnb is available around the country with private rooms starting at 650 TWD per night, though they average at least triple that. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 1,000 TWD (though prices average triple that). Book early to find the best deals.

Wild camping is generally prohibited but there are lots of campgrounds around the country. Expect to pay at least 300 TWD for a basic plot without electricity.

Food – Taiwanese cuisine is a mix of influences, from Chinese, Japanese (owing to the Japanese occupation), and Western traditions. Seafood is a huge staple, with squid, crab, and shellfish being especially popular. Braised pork, oyster omelets, fish balls, and stinky tofu are just some of the many dishes you can find around the country.

Food at the outdoor markets costs around 35-100 TWD depending on what you get. An order of dumplings costs around 100 TWD. Noodle soup or a basic rice dish costs around 70 TWD.

A meal at a simple sit-down restaurant serving local cuisine costs around 120 TWD.

Western food costs between 100-400 TWD. Burgers (often made with pork rather than beef) are on the lower end while pizza is on the higher end.

Fast food is pretty popular here. MosBurger (the best fast food joint in the country) costs around 165 TWD for a combo meal. Sushi, one of the most popular food options, costs 300–450 TWD for a meal. (Plates at the conveyor belt places are around 30 TWD each.

A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs 500 TWD. A beer or a latte/cappuccino costs around 80 TWD while a bottle of water costs 21 TWD.

For a week’s worth of groceries including staples like rice, seasonal produce, and seafood, expect to pay 2,000-2,500 TWD.

Backpacking Taiwan Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 1,050 TWD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food, cook some meals, limit your drinking, do free walking tours, and take public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 2,700 TWD per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, enjoy some Western food, drink more, take the bus between cities, and do more paid activities like museum visits and cooking classes.

On a “luxury” budget of 5,600 TWD per day, you can stay in a hotel, rent a car or take the train between cities, take guided tours to the islands, go diving, eat out at any restaurant you want, and visit as many attractions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in TWD.

Taiwan Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Taiwan is an affordable country so you don’t need to worry about breaking the bank here. As long as you stick to local cuisine and limit your drinking, it’s hard to spend a lot of money. Here are a few tips to keep your spending in check:

• Skip the high-speed trains – The high-speed trains in Taiwan are super convenient but expensive. Stick to the slower local trains, which are about 50% cheaper than the HSR.
• Eat at the food markets – The food in Taiwan is world-class and the best food is at the night markets that dot all the cities.
• Avoid Western food – Western food is twice the price of Taiwanese food. It’s also not amazing so stick to the local cuisine to save money.
• Take free walking tours – Taipei, Jiufen, Tainan, and Kaohsiung all have free walking tours from companies like Like It Formosa . They’re my favorite walking tour company in Taiwan. Their tours are fun, informative, and free. Just remember to tip your guide at the end.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here needs to be boiled before drinking so bring a bottle with a filter to ensure you have safe drinking water. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to you can be sure you water is safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Taiwan

Taiwan has plenty of fun and affordable hostels. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Formosa 101 (Taipei)
• Star Hostel (Taipei)
• T-Life Hostel (Taichung)
• Fuqi Hostel-Heping (Tainan)

How to Get Around Taiwan

Public transportation – All of the major cities have public transportation that is fast, safe, and reliable. Fares start at 15 TWD and go up depending on how far you travel. Taipei and Kaohsiung both have metro systems with tickets costing between 20-65 TWD. A single-day pass in Taipei costs 150 TWD, while a day pass in Kaohsiung costs 180 TWD.

Bus – The bus is the cheapest way to get around Taiwan. Intercity coach buses are available to all major cities around Taiwan, including Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. They are comfortable, modern, safe, and have air conditioning (too much, usually, so bring a sweater). The two main intercity bus companies are Ubus and Kuo-Kuang Bus. For fares and timetable information, visit taiwanbus.tw.

A bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung takes around five hours and costs 600-1,000 TWD while the three-hour trip from Taipei to Taichung costs as little as 90 TWD.

Train – The high-speed trains (HSR) in Taiwan are super convenient, however, they only go down the west side of the island and are very expensive. For example, a ticket from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs around 1,500 TWD.

The “local” trains are much more affordable, often 50% cheaper. The trip from Taipei to Kaohsiung on a local train costs just 845 TWD. It’s also just 515-800 TWD from Taipei to Tainan and 675-800 TWD from Taipei to Taichung via the local train.

The HSR line doesn’t pass through city centers, so you either need to take a bus or train from the HSR station, which also costs more time and money.

Flying – Domestic flights are relatively affordable, however, they are much more expensive than the bus or train. The two-hour flight from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs more than 4,000 TWD.

Flights to neighboring Hong Kong start at 3,600 TWD and take five hours (they can be as much as 6,500 TWD so it’s best if you’re flexible with your dates) while flights to Singapore take five hours and cost around 3,500 TWD.

Car Rental – Driving here is safe, however, car rentals here are expensive, usually costing at least 1,500 TWD per day. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle here. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Taiwan

July and August are the hottest months in the country and the most popular time to visit. Temperatures often hit 35°C (95°F) and prices are a little higher as well. It’s a great time to visit if you want to hit the beach.

The shoulder months of May-June and September-October offer the best balance of crowds, weather, and price. It’s still warm enough to enjoy the outdoors and do some hiking without getting rained out.

Winters in Taiwan are a little rainy but still warm, with daily highs around 18–20°C (65-68°F). Prices are a bit lower and it’s the perfect time to visit the relaxing (and relatively empty) hot springs. Expect big crowds in Taipei in December-January for the Chinese New Year.

How to Stay Safe in Taiwan

Taiwan is very safe, consistently ranking well on the Global Peace Index as one of the safest destinations in the world. Crimes against tourists are super rare. Overall, you are unlikely to encounter any problems in Taiwan and I never felt unsafe in the country. There are no scams here, everyone is super nice, and crime is super rare. It’s a great place to visit. My friends who live here also never have problems.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here for all those reasons. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply here too (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There are numerous solo female travel blogs that can provide more specific tips.

Earthquakes are common in the region so make sure you’re familiar with your accommodation’s emergency exits. Between July and November, typhoons can occur so make sure you stay up to date on the latest weather — especially if you’re near the coast or out hiking.

110 is the emergency number for police while 119 is the emergency number for fire and ambulance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects 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. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Taiwan Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Taiwan Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on China travel and continue planning your trip:

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Itinerary: What to Do in 4 (or More) Days

My Favorite Restaurants in Hong Kong

What Hitchhiking Solo as a Female in China Taught Me

7 Lessons Learned from 3 Months in China

How to Travel the Trans-Siberian Railway

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"Northern Taiwan" refers to the following seven counties and cities: Taipei City, New Taipei City, Keelung City, Yilan County, Taoyuan City, Hsinchu County and Hsinchu City. You may enjoy a bird's-eye-view of the capital from Taipei 101, the Taiwan's tallest building, go to National Palace Museum for appreciating historic objects, or take a walk on old streets in Jiufen, Tamsui, Yingge and Sanxia to immerse in old-time charm.

"Central Taiwan" refers to the following five counties and cities: Miaoli County, Taichung City, Changhua County, Nantou County, and Yunlin County. Located at the heart of Taiwan, these places are ideal for travel as the climate is mild. Many holiday villages and theme parks suitable for young and old can also be found here. If you like culture and art, you must not miss the wood carving studios and pottery kilns in Miaoli, where DIY classes are available. National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts and National Museum of Natural Science are worth some close explorations. Yunlin is known to the world as the place of origin of puppet theatre. It is also worth some fine appreciation.

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

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

Eastern Taiwan includes two counties, Hualien and Taitung. It faces the vast Pacific Ocean on the East and leans against the Central Mountain Ridge on the West. Standing in between such magnificent waters and mountains, when the Portuguese sailed by during their early explorations, they exclaimed "formosa," meaning "how beautiful" in their language. That's how Taiwan acquired its other name "Formosa," and this reveals how beautiful eastern Taiwan is. Eastern Taiwan is blessed with lots of natural resources, an old farming culture, and kind-hearted locals. Known as the "back yard" of Taiwan, it is ideal for a slow trip. Take a walk on this paradise on Earth, take some deep breaths, and breathe in sweet air. Long stay is recommended here.

Taroko National Park is not to be missed. Its awe-inspiring steep gorges and strange geological formations are worth appreciation. Xiuguluan River's crooked watercourse cuts through coastal mountain ridges, bringing about twists and turns along the way. The river is perfect for canoeing. Youngsters love coming here to enjoy exciting, challenging moments.

Other than the main island, Taiwan has plenty of small surrounding islets, administered by counties such as Penghu, Kinmen and Lienchiang. Once a forbidden military zone, Kinmen today is a popular tourist area. Its three specialties – steel knives, peanut candies, and sorghum wine, are long-time best sellers. Matsu's old wine and the sorghum wine of Tunnel 88 have a resounding taste.

In Penghu, the fireworks festival held at the turn of spring and summer is full of passion and romance. The blue sky and oceans, as well as soft white sand beaches, plus all kinds of fun water facilities, await visitors to enjoy.

@taiwan Discover and share the best of Taiwan with the world!

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Is it safe to travel to Taiwan right now? The latest travel advice after earthquake and tsunami warning

Here’s everything we know so far

Taiwan  is one of Asia’s most underrated travel destinations, with a magnetic capital city in  Taipei  and a stunning mountainous landscape. Located at the crossover of the South and East China Sea, the island nation offers travellers a long list of adventures .

However, an earthquake struck the east coast of the island at 7:58am (local time) this morning, which is the strongest experienced by Taiwan for 25 years. Locally, it’s been recorded as a magnitude 7.2, but the US Geological Survey recorded it as 7.4.  It was also felt in southern Japan , eastern China and the Philippines .

Here is what we know so far about travelling to Taiwan in the wake of the earthquake. 

Is it safe to travel to Taiwan? 

Though travelling to the island is yet to be explicitly advised against, aftershocks of at least 6.5 magnitude are expected to continue over the next four days at least, according to Taiwanese Central Weather Administration’s Seismology Centre. 

The tremors set off nine landslides, and the debris collapsed onto Suhua highway in the city of Hualien, which has been the worst-hit area. Multiple residential buildings have been damaged, and a couple have even collapsed. 

Taiwan’s electricity operator, Taipower, has said more than 87,000 people are currently without power. 

Where was impacted by the earthquake? 

The epicentre of the earthquake was around 18km south of Hualien, with the surrounding county being the worst-hit area, according to local officials. Three hikers were killed in Taroko National Park. The death toll in total so far is nine people, and 821 have been injured – this number is expected to rise.

Train services across the island have been suspended, as have subway services in Taipei. 

Is there still a tsunami warning in place?  

The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings across the region, but according to Al Jazeera , those have now been lifted. 

How close is Taiwan to Japan? 

Taiwan and Japan are 2,163km apart. While this might sound like a long distance, tsunamis have been known to travel up to 5,000km, and small tsunami waves were experienced on the coasts of Japan’s Miyako and Yaeyama islands. 

What’s the latest UK Foreign Office advice? 

The UK Foreign Office updated its Taiwan travel advice page today (April 3), stating: ‘On Wednesday 3 April 2024 at 07.58 local time, a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Eastern Taiwan with shocks felt all across the island including Taipei. Aftershocks continue to occur and you should expect travel disruption. You should consult the Central Weather Administration website and other official sources for more information.’

What are your rights if you’ve booked a trip? 

Until the UK Foreign Office issues advice against all but essential travel to Taiwan, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to cancel your travel plans without any penalties. To see what can be done, it’d be best to contact your accommodation, flight or trip provider.  

Have flights to Taiwan and Japan been cancelled?

So far, there’s no news of flights to either Taiwan or Japan being cancelled, but just to be sure, it’s best to check with your airline directly if you have one booked. 

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news.

• Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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Huge Taiwan quake caused few deaths thanks to preparedness — and luck

TAIPEI, Taiwan — Motorcyclists waited calmly on a bridge as it rocked violently ; nurses looking after a group of infants quickly pushed their cribs together to protect them from falling objects; a trio of hikers on top of Taiwan’s tallest mountain sat still until the tremor was over ; and rescue workers pulled residents out of partially collapsed and dangerously listing buildings.

When a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of Taiwan on Wednesday morning, it was scenes of composure such as these, rather than mass panic, that stood out across the island of 23 million people.

It was the strongest earthquake to hit Taiwan in 25 years, triggering hundreds of aftershocks and landslides. Yet as of Thursday, only 10 people in the worst-hit region of Hualien County, home to more than 300,000, had died.

That’s because Taiwan, which sits in the world’s most seismically active zone , has had years of practice and preparation for exactly this kind of scenario.

Experts credit stricter building codes , extensive evacuation and disaster drills that begin in primary school, a honed disaster-response strategy — and a fair amount of luck — for the low death toll of Wednesday’s quake .

“Although it seems like a long time, in the past 25 years Taiwan has actually made great progress,” said Hsin-yu Shan, associate professor of civil engineering at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University.

Taiwan earthquake

On Thursday, rescue teams were working to free more than 700 people who remained trapped in a national park in Hualien, the epicenter of the quake. Forecasts of rain raised concerns about more landslides.

More than 1,000 people were injured in Wednesday’s quake, mostly by falling rocks, according to Taiwan’s fire department.

Rescue efforts have been complicated by a large number of aftershocks — at least 324 — in Hualien County, a scenic coastal region popular with tourists and hikers, where the damage has been the heaviest. Taiwan officials said aftershocks of magnitudes of 6.5 to 7.0 were possible over the next three days.

Residents in Hualien said rescue workers moved quickly to evacuate them from damaged buildings.

The nine-story Uranus Building, an apartment complex, was among several buildings that partially collapsed and were left tilting dangerously as emergency workers raced to find those inside.

Yu Yang, a 27-year-old delivery worker who lives in the building, found herself pinned between her closet and table as the building suddenly tilted following a strong aftershock.

“I felt helpless and couldn’t move at all,” she said. Within about three hours, two rescue workers climbed into her apartment and used their own safety rope to lower her to the ground.

“The government’s response has been very quick, and they’ve worked very hard. It was really dangerous, but the search and rescue workers were willing to climb in,” she said.

Of the 75 people in the building, 74 were accounted for and safe. One woman who died is suspected of having gone back into the building for her cat and was pinned down by falling debris.

Rescue efforts are now focused on the Taroko Gorge national park, where hundreds of hotel workers and tourists remain trapped after the entrance was blocked by fallen rocks.

More than 15 people were also still missing in the gorge, the fire department said Thursday, and rescue workers were using drones and helicopters to search the area.

Drone footage posted by Taiwan’s interior minister, Lin Yu-chang, showed some of the residents trapped in the park under a damaged but intact metal tunnel, waving at the camera.

The quake, which occurred just before 8 a.m. Wednesday and which the U.S. Geological Survey measured at 7.4 in magnitude, was felt across Taiwan and as far away as China’s southeastern provinces. It triggered tsunami warnings in Japan and the Philippines that were later lifted.

The last time Taiwan saw a quake this strong was in 1999, when a 7.6-magnitude temblor struck central Taiwan, killing more than 2,400 people.

After that earthquake, authorities mandated stricter building codes that require new structures be able to withstand quakes up to what Taiwan defines as a level six intensity, where violent shaking makes it difficult to stand and some buildings may be damaged.

Shan, the professor of civil engineering, said the government has strengthened the earthquake resistance of schools and hospitals, adding that “99 percent of the schools in Taiwan comply with existing codes.”

Since 2019, the government has also been reviewing 36,000 buildings across Taiwan that were built before 1999 and giving subsidies to upgrade them.

Even before the 1999 quake, Taiwan had implemented earthquake building codes modeled after those in the United States. They have been upgraded as researchers learned from quakes elsewhere, such as an 8.0-magnitude Mexico City earthquake in 1985, in which reverberations in soft soil caused more damage, a phenomenon also present in the Taipei Basin in northern Taiwan.

“Taiwan has had remarkable discipline in their seismic building codes, and enforcement of those codes,” said Joseph Barbera, an associate professor at George Washington University who was deployed by USAID to Taiwan after the 1999 quake.

He noted that Taiwan had also built up a strong emergency response system, including response centers that are specially constructed to move with the ground as it shakes during an earthquake.

“The Taiwanese should be commended for their risk reduction as well as their effective response,” he said.

Disaster awareness has also improved among the public. A promotional quiz sponsored by the National Fire Agency last year asked residents questions such as whether they should open the door as soon as an earthquake hits. (The answer is no.) The average score among more than 200,000 test takers was 90 percent.

Taiwan’s all-important advanced computer chip industry has also had years to prepare. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., the world’s top maker of high-tech chips, based in central Taiwan, said its facilities were not seriously damaged by Wednesday’s earthquake.

Within 10 hours of the earthquake, 70 percent of production had been restored, the company said in a statement late Wednesday. None of the company’s high-end “lithography” machines, among the most complex pieces of equipment in the world, were damaged, TSMC said.

The emergency response was not always perfect, residents have pointed out. At least seven counties received no early-warning alert, triggering widespread criticism. Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration apologized, saying that it underestimated the scale of the earthquake and did not send an alert.

On Thursday, more than 300 households in Hualien still did not have power, and almost 10,000 homes in the area have lost access to running water, according to Taiwan’s Economic Affairs Ministry.

Schools and businesses in Hualien reopened Thursday, and the local railway line also resumed operation. Aftershocks continued to be felt throughout Taiwan, prompting the Central Weather Administration to say that it would no longer announce tremors smaller than magnitude 3.o.

In Hualien, where residents are accustomed to earthquakes, many were still shocked by the strength of the temblor. Andy Liu, 37, who lives in Jian Township, was waiting outside a clinic when it struck.

“It started to shake, and I felt something was off,” he said. “It was shaking so hard I couldn’t stand up.”

Luck also played a major role in the relatively low death toll of the quake, experts pointed out. It struck in the morning, when many people were heading to work and not at home.

Moreover, the epicenter was located off the coast, rather than on land, and was near one of Taiwan’s least densely populated regions.

“If this Hualien earthquake were to happen in Taipei, it is a certainty that the situation will be even worse than the Noto earthquake,” said Johnson Kung, a board member of the Taiwan Professional Civil Engineers Association, referring to a 7.6-magnitude quake that hit Japan in January and killed more than 200 people.

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Taiwan is hit by its strongest earthquake in nearly 25 years

John Ruwitch

In this image taken from a video footage run by TVBS, residents rescue a child from a partially collapsed building in Hualien, eastern Taiwan on Wednesday. AP hide caption

In this image taken from a video footage run by TVBS, residents rescue a child from a partially collapsed building in Hualien, eastern Taiwan on Wednesday.

TAIPEI, Taiwan — A major earthquake struck Taiwan during the morning rush hour on Wednesday, collapsing buildings and triggering tsunami warnings in Japan and the Philippines.

At least 9 people were reported dead and 963 were injured in the strongest earthquake that has not seen since 1999, Taiwanese officials said.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the aftermath of the taiwan earthquake.

The quake hit near the eastern city of Hualien at 7:58 a.m. local time (2358 GMT) and had a magnitude of 7.4, according to the U.S. Geological Survey , making it the strongest quake to hit since 1999. The depth was about 35 kilometers (22 miles), which is considered shallow. Taiwan's earthquake monitoring agency gave the magnitude as 7.2.

Strong shaking was felt in Taipei, the capital, some 100 miles away, with aftershocks continued for roughly two hours. And there were reports in China that people as far away as Shanghai, about 500 miles to the north, could feel the earthquake.

Earthquakes happen all over the world. Here's how to start preparing for one

Images on television showed extensive damage, including buildings listing to the side after having been shaken off their foundations. The authorities suspended work and school in Hualien, an area with about 300,000 residents. Officials also closed down eight power plants for safety, and 87,000 residents in Hualien, the epicenter, were without power, though electricity remains on for the rest of the island.

TSMC, the world's leading maker of cutting edge microchips, temporarily evacuated production lines after the quake.

In this image taken from a video footage run by TVBS, a partially collapsed building is seen in Hualien, eastern Taiwan on Wednesday. A powerful earthquake rocked the entire island of Taiwan early Wednesday, collapsing buildings in a southern city and creating a tsunami that washed ashore on southern Japanese islands. TVBS via AP hide caption

In this image taken from a video footage run by TVBS, a partially collapsed building is seen in Hualien, eastern Taiwan on Wednesday. A powerful earthquake rocked the entire island of Taiwan early Wednesday, collapsing buildings in a southern city and creating a tsunami that washed ashore on southern Japanese islands.

Taiwan's transportation authorities said train service was suspended island-wide, as well as subway service in Taipei. Videos from the epicenter show rockslides covering roads and houses that were knocked off-kilter.

An initial tsunami warning issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency was lifted later on Wednesday. The AP reported that a wave of 30 centimeters (about 1 foot) was detected on the coast of Yonaguni island about 15 minutes after the quake struck. JAMA said waves likely also hit the coasts of Miyako and Yaeyama islands.

Taiwan earthquake briefly halts chip factories that power the global economy

In the Philippines, no tsunami warning was issued, but residents in various coastal areas were advised to move to higher ground or move inland.

According to Taiwan media, the last earthquake of a magnitude 7 or greater to hit the island was the Sept. 21, 1999, "Jiji" earthquake that measured 7.3, which destroyed thousands of buildings and killed more than 2,400 people.

John Ruwitch contributed reporting from Beijing.

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Uncover new and exciting adventures in Taiwan by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in Taiwan will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

23 Taiwan small group tours with 28 reviews

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Explore Taiwan

Logan was a great tour guide and helpful in any moment.You’ll learn so much about local culture, Current events and helpful ideas to make you stay better.

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5-day Classic Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake & Alishan (Private)

We had an excellent time. Alex was very knowledgable on the sites we visited and took us for some great street food. Alishan sunrise was beautiful we were very lucky with the sun rise. My mom and I enjoyed this trip very much!

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Around Taiwan 8 day Private Tour (Premium)

We had a slightly rocky start. After paying for the tour, I had to write back to check that our tour was confirmed. This was 48 hours after booking. After it was agreed to be confirmed we then received an email a couple of days later saying that two of the hotels were booked out and would we upgrade, costing another 50% on top of the entirety of the tour. After disagreeing I personally had to email examples of hotels that I could find that had availability and were similar in quality. This was agreed but interestingly when on the tour, one of the original hotels we stayed in anyway. We were also booked in a king side bed on the first two nights and strangely found that every hotel was then twin singles. Originally we thought this was the availability issue but this became the norm for all the hotels even those that had no capacity issues. The positive however was our driver and tour guide, Bill. He was polite, insightful and very professional. He genuinely felt like part of the family at the end of the tour. The quality of the hotels were good. Alishan is tougher but there really isn't another option. Language can be a real challenge so having Bill was very important in the Southern and Eastern parts of Taiwan. It's also hard to get to some of the best places like Alishan, Taroko Gorge etc by public transport. Overall Id give the booking experience 2 stars. But the tour itself and Bill 5 stars. Taiwan is a beautiful and very safe place. A great place to visit.

Tailor-Made Best Taiwan Tour with Daily Departure & Private Guide

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Taiwan Explorer 11 Days Panorama Tour

Customized Private Taiwan Tour with Daily Departure

Bike Taiwan

Private 3-Day Tour to Sun Moon Lake and Alishan

Such a magical experience! Our driver was really friendly as well as our guide, with great recommendations for local-fare for the time away from the tour. Mr. Chang made sure to introduce us to a special Taiwanese tea ceremony since the museum from the tour did not have such an exhibit. He was also really friendly with the locals that made our group feel really welcomed to the environment. He expertly lead the way through the Alishan terrain and knew the best places to take photos. He not only kept up with but outpaced an entire flock of 20-somethings!

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Taiwan Tea Culture & Monastic Life

We really enjoyed our vacation in Taiwan with Moskito Adventures. The tour was excellently organized. We saw a lot and the hikes in the Taroko Gorge and the bike tours were our personal highlights. Our guide was very caring and always made sure we were comfortable. Thank you very much, dear Chris ???? We will definitely book again, as Korea is still on our list. Best regards Jonathan and Petra

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Around Taiwan (Private)

The 6-day private Taiwan tour offers a great insight into the scenic and cultural highlights of Taiwan. Everything was wonderfully organized, from booking the tour, to communication and the entire process. Our tour guide Ken was great, incredibly friendly and helpful. We were also able to modify the tour a bit according to our own preferences. The tour program was very varied and diverse, from hiking in Taroko Park, to a short bike ride through the rice fields, to painting our own lantern with a famous Taiwanese lantern painter. Our great tour guide Ken gave us a lot of interesting information about Taiwan, we tried a lot of delicious local food and gained a super insight into the great country. We can highly recommend the tour. Everything was perfectly organized, it could not have been done better!

Around Taiwan 8 Day Private Tour (Classic)

The 8-day private tour of Taiwan was everything we were hoping for and more... This was largely due to our guide Ken who was truly excellent, Easy to converse with, flexible as to starting hours and itinerary, very informative and super helpful in dealing with non-english speakers, e.g. in hotels, restaurants etc.

2-day Taroko Gorge Private Tour (Classic)

I very much enjoyed my two day/one night tour to Taroko Gorge with Jaron. He was a wonderful guide and driver. Got to see a lot in the two days and had perfect weather, I really lucked out! Enjoyed the night market and the food we tried on the first day and the Gorge all the 2nd day. Thanks!

3 DayTaroko Gorge Private Hiking Adventure

As we have been to Taroko Gorge the previous week, the itinerary was adjusted for us to hike other trails that we had not been to. The last day was sunny and the itinerary was changed so that we can enjoy the Snow Mountain, almost the highest point of Taiwan. Our guide Zoe knew the hikes very well and overall we had great time for this tour which is highly recommend for others who like hiking.

Eastern Beauty of Taiwan (Private)

Reviews of small group tours to taiwan.

Our tour, 5 day Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake & Alishan was exceptional. My partner and I were blown away by the incredible landscape, the warmth of the Taiwanese people, and our fabulous tour guide/driver Calvin Lo. Calvin was so much fun, very knowledgeable, a safe driver, insightful as to our particular preferences and likes on the tour, and always thinking of other options available which would interest us. Being just 2 persons, we were able to maximise our days fully. The 3 hotels were very good, great locations and rooms provided. In particular, the Taroko Liiko Hotel was our favourite. The operator My Taiwan Tour communicated very well. Overall, we were extremely impressed with our whole experience on tour.

We had a slightly rocky start. After paying for the tour, I had to write back to check that our tour was confirmed. This was 48 hours after booking. After it was agreed to be confirmed we then received an email a couple of days later saying that two of the hotels were booked out and would we upgrade, costing another 50% on top of the entirety of the tour. After disagreeing I personally had to email examples of hotels that I could find that had availability and were similar in quality. This was agreed but interestingly when on the tour, one of the original hotels we stayed in anyway. We were also booked in a king side bed on the first two nights and strangely found that every hotel was then twin singles. Originally we thought this was the availability issue but this became the norm for all the hotels even those that had no capacity issues. The positive however was our driver and tour guide, Bill. He was polite, insightful and very professional. He genuinely felt like part of the family at the end of the tour. The quality of the hotels were good. Alishan is tougher but there really isn't another option. Language can be a real challenge so having Bill was very important in the Southern and Eastern parts of Taiwan. It's also hard to get to some of the best places like Alishan, Taroko Gorge etc by public transport. Overall Id give the booking experience 2 stars. But the tour itself and Bill 5 stars. Taiwan is a beautiful and very safe place. A great place to visit.

• Taiwan Travel Guide

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What We Know About the Earthquake in Taiwan

The quake set off aftershocks and damaged dozens of buildings, killing nine people and leaving many injured or trapped.

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By John Yoon

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake that rocked Taiwan during the morning commute on Wednesday was the strongest quake to hit the island in 25 years.

It initially triggered forecasts of tsunami waves in China, Japan and the Philippines, but those warnings were later canceled. There were more than 100 aftershocks and more were expected over the next three to four days.

Here’s what we know about the earthquake and its aftermath.

What is the death toll?

The earthquake killed at least nine people and injured more than 930 others, Taiwan’s fire department said Wednesday evening. Dozens remained trapped.

Among the dead were at least three hikers who were hit by falling rocks on a trail in Taroko National Park, according to the state-owned Central News Agency.

What parts of Taiwan were affected?

The heaviest damage was in Hualien County on the east coast near the epicenter , which was about 11 miles south of the city of Hualien, the county seat. All nine people who died were in the county, the authorities said. But the quake was felt throughout Taiwan.

Buildings shook for more than a minute in the capital, Taipei. Rail services were halted across the island. Airlines canceled or delayed dozens of flights. More than 360,000 households lost power at one point on Wednesday, according to Taiwan’s Central Emergency Operation Center.

Map: 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Taiwan

View the location of the quake’s epicenter and shake area.

What was damaged?

The worst damage was in the city of Hualien, where several buildings were tilted over with their ground-floor levels crushed. One of the buildings, a 10-story structure that housed a mix of homes and shops, was one of the centers of the rescue efforts.

Throughout Taiwan, the quake and its aftershocks caused 15 buildings to collapse partially and damaged 67 others. One building in Changhua County, on the west coast, collapsed entirely, according to Taiwan’s fire department.

The quake also set off at least nine landslides on a major highway in Hualien, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency, which said part of the road had collapsed.

How prepared was Taiwan?

Taiwan has improved its level of preparation over decades of experiencing destructive earthquakes. It has refined its early warning system since the 1980s. It also updated its building codes in 2022, requiring owners of vulnerable structures to install reinforcements.

Taiwan established an urban search-and-rescue team and opened several emergency medical operation centers after an earthquake in central Taiwan killed nearly 2,500 people in 1999. The government also ordered a wave of building inspections in 2018 after 17 people died in a quake in Hualien.

Why has Taiwan had so many earthquakes?

Many deadly earthquakes have struck Taiwan in the past century. The island sits on several active faults, which are associated with seismic activity. It is near the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an area the U.S. Geological Survey says is the most seismically and volcanically active zone in the world.

John Yoon is a Times reporter based in Seoul who covers breaking and trending news. More about John Yoon

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Tue, Apr 09, 2024 page1

Hualien tourism industry to be hit by nt$5.3bn loss.

• Staff writer, with CNA

The tourism industry in Hualien is forecast to sustain losses of approximately NT$5.3 billion (US$165.13 million) this month following a powerful earthquake on the coast of the county last week, the Hualien County Tourism Association said on Sunday.

Speaking to the Central News Agency, Chen Yi-feng (陳義豐), head of the tourism association, said that the fatal quake has severely impacted Hualien’s tourism industry, estimating that the hotel booking rate for this month is expected to drop to less than 10 percent.

The association previously estimated that about 60 percent of the hotel rooms in Hualien would be booked this month, but the earthquake has ruined the holiday mood of many of the potential visitors during the four-day Tomb Sweeping Day holiday, dragging down the booking rate for the month, Chen said.

A souvenir shop owner eats a meal at a tourist night market in Hualien on Saturday.

Photo: Daniel Ceng, EPA-EFE

Citing statistics released by the Tourism Administration, Chen said that each tourist who stayed in a hotel in Hualien for one night or longer spent an average of NT$5,736 in 2022.

Based on the figure and a booking rate of about 60 percent, the approximately 17,000 hotel rooms in the county could be expected to generate NT$5.3 billion this month, he said.

However, following the quake, the booking rate is forecast to fall to less than 10 percent, causing the expected NT$5.3 billion of income to evaporate, he said.

Among popular hotels in Hualien, Silks Place Taroko (太魯閣晶英酒店), run by Formosa International Hotels Corp (晶華國際酒店集團), has announced the suspension of operations until April 30, citing the massive impact of the earthquake.

Silks Place Toroko has become a hub for rescue efforts in the area, providing accommodation for search-and-rescue workers and quake victims.

Just Sleep Hualien (花蓮捷絲旅飯店), another hotel run by Formosa International Hotels, said its building, which is on Zhongzheng Road in downtown Hualien City, remained unscathed despite the temblor, but its occupancy rate fell to 60 percent during the four-day Tomb Sweeping Day holiday, down from 80 percent.

Bookings for this month as a whole are expected to fall to about 30 percent from the previous estimate of 60 percent, Just Sleep Hualien said.

Azure Hotel Hualien (花蓮藍天麗池飯店), another popular hotel due to its downtown location, has decided to suspend operations until June 30 as the building needs to be structurally reinforced.

Chateau De Chine Hualien (花蓮翰品酒店) has also been shut down as the operator — LDC Hotels & Resorts Group (雲朗觀光集團) — has started rebuilding work.

Chen said he hopes the government would provide more relief funds to the hard-hit tourism industry in Hualien and provide subsidies to tourists to encourage them to visit the county.

The association also urged Taiwan Railway Corp (臺鐵) to provide hotel operators and travel agencies with reserved seats especially for their customers as an incentive to further encourage people to visit Hualien, he said.

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Strong 7.2 earthquake strikes off hualien, city says bongkrek acid found on chef’s hands, earthquake death toll increases to 10, death toll from earthquake rises to 12, prague mulls action after hsiao followed.

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UPDATE: 5:10pm The whole of Taiwan was jolted by a magnitude 7.2 earthquake that struck just off the coast of Hualien County at 7:58am on Wednesday, the largest quake to hit the nation in 25 years. As of 4:30pm, the death toll had reached nine. A total of 821 people were injured, and 127 were still trapped or stranded. According to the Central Weather Administration (CWA), the epicenter was 25km south-southeast of Hualien County Hall at a depth of 15.5km. The highest intensity of 6 was felt in Hualien, while Yilan and Miaoli counties registered over 5. Intensities of just under 5 were felt

By Kayleigh Madjar

The Taipei City Government yesterday said its inspection of a restaurant linked to a bongkrek acid poisoning outbreak found that a specimen collected from the chef’s hands on March 24 had tested positive for the toxin, so the restaurant would be held responsible for the food poisoning. Thirty people who ate at Polam Kopitam (寶林茶室) in Far Eastern Department Store Xinyi A13 (Xinyi A13) between March 19 and 24 have reported falling ill after eating there, with most of them having eaten a stir-fried flat rice noodle dish called char kway teow (炒粿條). Bongkrek acid, a rare toxin produced by contamination

By Lee I-chia

TAIPEI DAMAGE: Buildings in Wanhua District were damaged in the quake, with some residents ordered to evacuate and one building facing possible demolition The death toll from Wednesday’s magnitude 7.2 earthquake rose to 10, while 1,099 people were injured and 15 were missing, in addition to 705 people who remained trapped, the National Emergency Response Center said at 8:40pm yesterday. The latest fatality, previously listed as missing, was a man hiking on Xiaozhuilu Trail (小錐麓步道) in Hualien County. He was found under rocks and his remains were transported out of the area in the late afternoon. The 17 other hikers who had registered their details with the Taroko National Park were all accounted for, the park management office said. All of the known fatalities occurred in

By Jonathan Chin

HELP! The government has been air-dropping food, water, medicine and other necessities to people in trapped areas, while some are being delivered on foot Rescue efforts continued yesterday at Taroko National Park and the Central Cross-Island Highway following Wednesday’s earthquake, with the death toll increasing by two to 12, in addition to 1,133 injured, 636 trapped and eight missing. As of 9pm, the center said it had recovered three missing people, two of whom who were near Luoshao Cihui Temple (洛韶慈惠堂). Although two bodies were discovered along the Shakadang Trail (砂卡礑) in Taroko yesterday, the Central Emergency Operations Center said the official death toll still stands at 10 until they can be extricated. Earlier yesterday, members of the Special Search and Rescue Division from the Pingtung,

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