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Must-Visit Attractions in Taiwan

The incredible majesty of Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is just one of Taiwans many bounties

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

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taiwan tourist spots 2019

The one-time tallest building in the world may no longer be a record holder, but it is still one of Taiwan’s most impressive buildings and well worth a visit. The 728-ton mass damper that allows the building to survive the island’s many earthquakes is an amazing piece of engineering and can be seen from various points within the building.

Home to one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, the National Palace Museum offers a look into imperial China’s past. The many thousands of items on display were rescued by Chiang Kai-Shek’s government as they fled mainland China during the cultural revolution.

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Taroko Gorge

Taroko gorge and hiking paths

A couple of hours’ train ride from Taipei lies Taroko National Park, home to one of the most visited natural wonders in Taiwan. Take the trail to the Eternal Spring Shrine which features a stunning waterfall.

Yushan National Park

taiwan tourist spots 2019

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

Alishan Scenic Mountain Area

Alishan’s mountain railway is an ever popular tourist destination with both local and foreign tourists. The train winds its way to the top of the mountain where there are plenty of easy hiking trails that offer fantastic photo opportunities.

Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in Taiwan and a great destination for a short trip. There are scores of hotels located around the lake which is busy with yachts taking tourists from one side to the other. There is also a cable car here that takes you to the Formosa Aboriginal Culture Village.

Maokong gondola which operates between Taipei Zoo and Maokong

This well-known spot is one of the best places in Taipei to enjoy a cup of tea. The incredible scenery is worth the trip alone, but it is perhaps the gondola ride from the zoo to Maokong which has made it one of the most popular day trips to make during a stay in Taipei.

Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

Located on the edge of Lotus Lake, a scenic area in the heart of Kaohsiung, these two pagodas are possibly the most popular attractions in the port city. Visitors enter the temples through the dragon’s and tiger’s mouths and can enjoy a view of the lake from the top of each tower.

Maolin National Scenic Area

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

Rainbow Village

This colorful neighborhood was the brainchild of local man Huang Yung-Fu. He decided that the ex-military village he lived in was too drab and so took a few paintbrushes to the walls – he hasn’t yet stopped.

Miramar ferris wheel

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

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

Shilin Night Market

taiwan tourist spots 2019

There are plenty of night markets located throughout the country, but one of the most famous and easily accessed is Shilin Night Market. There’s an incredible selection of the best street food on offer, while the shops and stands are packed with bargains.

If street food gets your mouth watering then you should book a spot on our Epic Trip in Vietnam , where you’ll get to go on street food tours of both Hanoi and Hue City.

Yangmingshan geysers

Yangmingshan National Park is the most conveniently located of Taiwan’s national parks just a short bus ride outside Taipei city. The park is home to a dormant volcano which is why there are so many hot springs in the area. Xiaoyoukeng is the best place to see the geysers – there is also a visitor center, and several pathways and hiking trails.

Longshan Temple

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Built in the 1700s, this Buddhist temple is now home to many gods from neighboring temples that were demolished. The temple survived an air raid during World War II and is one of the most popular temples on the island.

Chimei Museum

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

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

The incredible majesty of Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is just one of Taiwan’s many bounties

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Taipei, the main feature of this hall is the large statue of Chiang Kai-shek, flanked by an honor guard. Visitors can watch the changing of the guard at set times during the day.

Kenting Street

Popular among locals as a beach holiday destination, Kenting National Park is home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and forests. But it is the beach areas near Kenting Street that are a must-see for lovers of sun, sea, and sand.

Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

Even for those with no interest in Buddhism, this museum is impressive. The Buddha statue on the museum and the pagodas lining the avenue are alone worth the trip to Kaohsiung.

Fort Zeelandia

Built in the 1600s by the Dutch East India Company, this former Dutch stronghold was a place of import during their rule over the western part of the island in the 17th century. The fort is now restored to its former glory and is one of Tainan’s most popular attractions.

Planning a visit to Asia? We have a wide variety of incredible trips for you, from the jungles and beaches of Thailand to the neon lights of Japan.

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The Wandering Quinn Travel Blog

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

Categories Asia , Taiwan

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

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

Best Places to Visit in Taiwan

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

Best Places to Visit in Taiwan

FIRST TIMERS GUIDE TO TAIWAN

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

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

GETTING AROUND TAIWAN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

best places to visit in Taiwan, taipei city and taipei 101 in distance

Day Trips from Taipei

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

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

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

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

4. Yehliu Geopark

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

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

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

5. Beitou Hot Springs

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

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

6. Yangmingshan National Park

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

best places to visit in Taiwan, ocean and rocks at Yehliu National Park

7. Kaohsiung

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

best places to visit in Taiwan, dragon and tiger pagoda kaohsiung

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

8. Taichung

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Sun Moon Lake

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

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

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

10. Dakeng Hiking Trails

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

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

best places to visit in Taiwan, Rainbow village in Taichung

11. Hualien  

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

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

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

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

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

best places to visit in Taiwan, Hualien night market

12. Taroko National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

best places to visit in Taiwan, river and rocks at Taroko Gorge

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

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

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

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

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

best places to visit in Taiwan, Tainan Fort

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  • How Much I Spent in Taiwan!

14. Taitung

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

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

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

15. Kenting National Park

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

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

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

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

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

16. Green Island

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

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

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

17. Penghu Islands

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

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

18. Keelung

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

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

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

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

best places to visit in Taiwan, view of Keelung city

How to Get Around Taiwan?

Trains in taiwan.

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

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

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

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

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

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

High-Speed Train from Taipei to Taichung.

High-Speed Train from Taipei to Tainan.

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

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

best places to visit in Taiwan, hello kitty pink train in taiwan

TAIWAN ITINERARY HELP

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

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

TAIWAN ON A BUDGET

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

Car Hire in Taiwan

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

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

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

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

easy card picture | how to get around taiwan

Best Time of Year to Visit Taiwan

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

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

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

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

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Friday 27th of December 2019

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

TheWanderingQuinn

Tuesday 7th of January 2020

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

10 of the best places to visit in Taiwan

Kaila Yu

Oct 23, 2023 • 6 min read

taiwan tourist spots 2019

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

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

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

1. Sun Moon Lake

Best place to bike

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

2. Beitou, Taipei

Best place for hot springs

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

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

A red iron bridge leads to a small riverside pavilion

3. Taroko National Park

Best place to chase waterfalls

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

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

Best surf spot

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

People watch the sunset over the ocean from the harbor in Kaohsiung

5. Kaohsiung 

Best place to temple hop

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

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

Best place for quiet

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

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

A rainbow walkway painted on the street spelling out TAIPEI

7. Ximen district, Taipei

Best place for LGBTIQ+ travelers 

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

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

Best place for fresh seafood

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

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

A boat loaded with tourists explores the natural stone features that line an island coastline

Best place to island hop

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

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

10. Green Island

Best place to be underwater

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

This article was first published January 2023 and updated October 2023

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KKday Blog

Taiwan Travel Guide 2019: Things to Know Before You Go

January 2, 2019 April 21, 2020 by KKday

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Taiwan may not be the hottest Asia destination like Korea or Japan, but those who have visited would know how underrated it is. Largely undiscovered by Western travelers but loved by neighbor countries, this island has more than just manufacturing plants— it boasts diverse culture, phenomenal delicacies (say hello to the best bubble teas and dumplings in the world!), hundreds of high mountain peaks, offshore islands and captivating coastlines.

If you’ve been meaning to explore Taiwan but don’t know where to start, this is your guide. Here’s everything you need to know before you go , including weather, transport, main attractions, important cultural events in 2019, local customs and more. Use it to draft up your travel plan and packing checklist!

Visa Application

The passport holders from Singapore and Malaysia are allowed a 30-day visa-free stay. For citizens of the Philippines, a 14-day stay is allowed until 31st July 2019 . Citizens from USA, UK, Canada, and Australia can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.

Hong Kong and Macau passport holders would have to apply for Exit and Entry Permit either at the airport after landing, or in advance online. A 30-day entry is allowed with the permit.

For the latest information, check the Taiwan ministry of foreign affairs website .

A road in Taiwan nearby a beach

The climate of Taiwan is split between the subtropical north and the tropical south. During summer from June to August, the weather can be very hot and humid around 30°C to 33°C, so prepare to sweat a lot. While the capital, Taipei, is expected to be hot and humid, in the south areas you may enjoy some pleasant tropical breeze.

From July to October, the whole island is subject to occasional typhoons. Therefore, you’ll have to be extra careful when traveling to the East Coast as that area often gets the first impact. The best travel period would be from September to November with cooler weather and less rains.

That being said, winter is also an ideal time to visit south Taiwan like Chiayi, Tainan, and Kaohsiung ‘cause it doesn’t get rainy and gloomy as in northern Taiwan. Spring is a nice time to visit too, although the “plum rain” season can bring rain to most part of Taiwan.

Taoyuan International Airport

It’s the biggest and busiest airport in Taiwan with two flight terminals. It is located 40 km away from Taipei, but thankfully there are a lot of convenient ways to reach the capital!

There are buses departing from and arriving at both terminals. Several buses are bound for multiple points in Taipei city, others are also bound for Taichung, Taoyuan or Taoyuan HSR station. The buses to Taipei takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour.

Another convenient way to go to Taipei is by MRT. By spending NT$160, you’ll reach Taipei Main Station within 40 minutes.

Voltage for Devices

power adaptor and power socket

We know how indispensable your phone and camera are when you travel, so make sure to put the power adapter on your checklist. In Taiwan, the power sockets are type A and B, and the standard voltage is 110A with 60Hz frequency. If you’re from a country using higher voltage, then bring a voltage converter with you.

Tourist Refund Scheme

Foreign travelers if spend more over NTD 2000 at a single TRS (Tax Refund Shopping)-labeled store can request a tax refund form. Then they are eligible for 5% VAT tax refund when leaving Taiwan. If the purchase is made within 90 days, you can go to the tax refund service at airports before checking in.

Some TRS-labeled stores also provide small-amount tax refunds for those purchase less than NTD 48000 at one store on the same date. For more detailed information, check the official tax refund website .

Wi-Fi and SIM Cards

Wifi logo in Taiwan

Heavy smartphone addicts, fret not! All across the island, you’ll find free Wi-Fi at most of the public spaces. The following are the most available free Wi-Fi hotspots in Taiwan:

  • iTaiwan: Covers most part of Taiwan (almost 10000 hotspots in total), including public transportation spaces, major tourist attractions, public institutions, public hospitals and so on.You can even find Wi-Fi coverage at the tip of Hehuan mountain, 3,150 meters above ground. Incredible, right? Register the free iTaiwan account here .
  • Free AD WiFi: Covers the whole Taipei MRT, Carrefour stores and a few affiliate stores in most cities.
  • WIFLY 4Free: It’s available in Taipei MRT stations, 7-11, Starbucks, MOS Burger, and other Taipei public facilities.

If you need a SIM card, book a prepaid 4D SIM card via KKday and pick it up at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), package ranges from 3 days to 15 days. It couldn’t get any better than this!  

How to Get Around

train rail with a beach nearby

Basically, Taiwan is well-connected all around, except there’s no easy way to commute horizontally between East and West because of the towering mountain strips standing in the middle. If you consider visiting beyond Taipei, here are some useful means of transportation:

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR / HSR)

Opened in 2017, High Speed Rail is the fastest train line passing each major cities along the west coast. Running at over 300 km/hr, HSR takes you from Taipei to Kaohsiung in a mere 96 minutes! For a complete guide on THSR, go to our article “ Taiwan by Train: A Complete Guide to Taiwan’s High Speed Rail ”.

Pro-tip: Book an unlimited HSR pass at a discounted price with KKday.

Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA)

If you have some spare time and don’t wanna spend that much, we suggest you take the slower Taiwan railways and drink in picturesque views along the way. You see more as you slow down your path, of course!

Railway journey is the locals’ most favored way to tour around Taiwan. The railway takes you along the seaside, rice fields, go deep into mountains and pass through small old towns. You can get the most authentic travel experience by train to Alishan , Pingxi, Shifen and Jingtong , or Neiwan .   

You can purchase the tickets easily at Taipei Main Station, or any other train stations. Another bonus for taking TRA: You get to taste the cheap but delicious railway bento served on the train!

It’s basically the cheapest public transportation available. Taking buses is a nice option for travelers on a budget and don’t mind the possible traffic jam on the highway (alhough it seldom happens unless you travel during Taiwan’s national holidays ).

The Taipei Bus Station is located right at Taipei Main Station. The station could be as confusing as a maze, but just follow the sign as you hop off the from MRT and you’ll get there.

Overview of Attractions

overview attractions of Twin-Hearts Stone Weir, Penghu

Northern Taiwan

In northern Taiwan sits the capital city Taipei , and Yangmingshan National Park reachable by bus from the city. Other well-known attractions near Taipei includes mountain towns Jiufen and Pingxi, or Yehliu for bizarre rocks at the coast.

Yilan is a less explored area for foreign visitors, a buffer between modern Taipei and natural Hualien in the East. It boasts some secret beaches by the seashore, hot springs or cold springs, traditional attractions in the city.   

Central Taiwan

Head to the center of Taiwan for an excursion to mountainous ranges, and the second biggest city, Taichung. Sun Moon Lake , Cingjing Farm are two major destinations located at the Central Range for nature lovers. On the other hand, Taichung is praised as the most livable city in Asia. Why not find out why by yourself?

Southern Taiwan

At the tropics of Taiwan, you can explore Alishan , the mountain with cypress trees over a thousand years old, cherry blossoms and characteristic forest trains built from the Japanese colonization era. Historical city Tainan is home of best delicacies and many temples and fortresses.

Kaohsiung , the sunny port city, welcome those looking for the biggest night market, mixed cultural heritage  formed by Hakka, Hoklo and the aboriginals, and vibrant city life by the seashore. Tropical sandy beaches and sea activities in Kenting , the southernmost point of Taiwan, are top choices for your summer holidays.

Eastern Taiwan

For the best natural getaway, venture to the East coast to see Taiwan’s original beauty less touched by human development. Taroko Gorge , the East Rift Valley , Sansiantai, Sixty Stone Mountain, to name a few, are awe-inspiring sights to fulfill your nature-loving heart.

Offshore Islands

So here’s the secret: offshore islands are the most beautiful places to visit in Taiwan. Green Island and Orchid Island near Taitung are one-of-a-kind small islands for bluest and clearest sea water and richest sea life to observe. Penghu also has several breathtaking white sand beaches, not to mention their own unique sea culture distinct from the main island.

Taiwan’s Major Events

image of sky lantern display in Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival

Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival  (February 19 and September 13, 2019)

Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is a magical fairytale in real life. It is praised by the U.S Discovery Channel as the second biggest New Year’s celebration in the world! Every year at the Lantern Festival, people from near and far gather at Pingxi, write down their New Year’s wishes on paper lanterns, then launched thousands of fire-lit lanterns into the night sky. This cultural event has been in practice for about 200 years, reflecting people’s aspirations, wishes and dreams at the start of the year and at every moon festival.

Book a Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival Day Tour

Song-Jiang Battle Ritual in Neimen, Kaohsiung (March 30 – April 7, 2019)

Song-Jiang Battle Ritual is a miniature of the religious root culture of Taiwan. It was originally organized to strengthen and defend the town. With time it has developed into a theatrical parade combining traditional martial arts and Chinese classical fiction novel, performed to give thanks to God. If you attend the event, remember to not walk into a ritual or stand in the middle of the road while the ritual is approaching, as these behaviors are regarded as a big taboo.

Mazu International Festival(Late March to April, date not decided yet)

This is undoubtedly Taiwan’s most important and largest religious practice, which usually last for 9 days and 8 nights. Mazu, the goddess of the sea that protects the island, patrols south and back to Dajia Jenn Lann Temple for 300 kilometers. More than 5 millions of worshippers follow Mazu’s palanquin on foot. They carry flags and playing traditional instruments to announce the approaching of Mazu’s blessing from one town to the next.

Book a Mazu Temple Tour

HO-HAI-YAN Gongliao Rock Festival (July 26 – July 28, 2019 )

Taiwan’s yearly rock festival by the beach sounds like a blast! Gongliao Rock Festival has been elected the top music festival in Asia, and that says a lot. It takes place at the seashore near New Taipei City each year, combining the peaceful sea environment with independent rock music. Dance and feast on music from both indie rock bands from Taiwan and international groups. Discovering cool new bands and partying with passionate fans on the scenic coast will definitely  make your summer unforgettable.

Local Customs

Taiwan train passes

As we travel to an unfamiliar country, there are always some different local customs or etiquette that we might not be aware of. We here provide some little tips to help you become a respectful and mindful traveler!

  • Line up properly. Taiwanese love to stay organized and this applies everywhere— like waiting for the MRT.
  • Don’t eat or drink anything on the MRT. Yep, not even water. That’s why their MRT is always so clean and tidy.
  • Be on time. If you have an appointment with Taiwanese friends, don’t be late! Taiwanese tend to inform the others even if they are only late for 5 minutes.
  • Wear a face mask if you have flu. During your first time in Taiwan, you might be wondering why people are wearing face masks everywhere. It’s because they prone to be polite by not infecting others with their illnesses.

Transportation services available for tourists in Taiwan:

  • Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Discount Ticket from Taipei
  • Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) Private Transfer to Taipei
  • Taipei Taoyuan Airport (TPE) Round-trip Shuttle Bus Ticket
  • Taiwan iPass Public Transit Card (Taoyuan Airport Pick-Up)

Other articles to inspire your trip to Taiwan:

  • What Kind of Taiwan Trips Fit Your Travel Personality?
  • Useful Chinese Phrases Every Foreigner Should Learn
  • Ultimate Guide to Taiwan: Taroko Gorge

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The 27 Best Taiwan Tourist Spots – Time Saver Taiwan Itinerary

Taiwan Tourist Spots

Taiwan tourist spots can leave you in awe of reaction. It is an island nation located in East Asia, is a hidden gem that offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, rich history, and modern attractions. Its unique cultural heritage and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan, make sure to follow these enchanting tourist spots in order to save your time when you visit Taiwan.

Table of Contents

1. Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall

This majestic memorial hall stands tall in Taipei City. Its grand architecture, lush gardens, and a giant bronze statue of Sun Yat Sen are awe-inspiring. The hall also houses exhibitions and artifacts related to the leader’s life and revolutionary activities. The architecture of the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall is a breathtaking blend of traditional Chinese design and modern aesthetics and a must-visit Taiwan tourist spots.

Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall - Taiwan Tourist Spots

2. Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Hiking Trail)

This enchanting Taiwan tourist spot offers an exhilarating hiking experience that promises breathtaking panoramas of the city’s skyline, making it a favorite destination for both locals and travelers seeking a dose of nature The trail is relatively short but challenging, especially during sunset and at night when Taipei’s lights illuminate the landscape.

Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Hiking Trail)

3. Raohe Night Market

Indulge your taste buds and immerse yourself in the vibrant Taiwanese street food culture at Raohe Night Market. From delicious local delicacies like pepper buns and stinky tofu to quirky snacks and trendy fashion items, this bustling market has it all.

 Raohe Night Market

4. Liberty Square (Chiang Kai Shek Memorial)

Dedicated to the former President of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai Shek, Liberty Square is an iconic landmark in Taipei. The massive white structure of the memorial hall, along with the National Concert Hall and National Theater, creates a beautiful ensemble that attracts tourists and locals alike.

Liberty Square (Chiang Kai Shek Memorial)

5. Presidential Office Building

An architectural marvel in the heart of Taipei, the Presidential Office Building serves as the official workplace of the President of Taiwan. Its elegant design and historical significance make it a must-see attraction.

Presidential Office Building

6. Ximending

As one of Taipei’s most vibrant districts, Ximending is a tourist spot paradise for shopaholics and entertainment enthusiasts. This bustling area is filled with trendy boutiques, entertainment centers, theaters, and an array of restaurants serving delectable cuisine.

 Ximending

7. The Red House

Located in Ximending, the Red House is an iconic octagonal-shaped tourist spot building that hosts various cultural events, art exhibitions, and craft markets. It’s a perfect place to explore Taiwan’s creative side and purchase unique souvenirs.

The Red House

8. Lungshan Temple

A symbol of Taiwanese spiritual and architectural heritage, Lungshan Temple in Taipei is a stunning temple complex dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin. The intricately designed temple offers a peaceful sanctuary for both worshippers and visitors.

Lungshan Temple

9. Bopiliao Historical Block

Step back in time and explore the preserved streets of Bopiliao Historical Block in Taipei. This cultural heritage site showcases traditional Taiwanese architecture and provides insight into the island’s past.

Bopiliao Historical Block

10. Wuling Farm

Nature lovers should not miss Wuling Farm, a picturesque mountain retreat in Taichung. Throughout the year, this vast area showcases beautiful seasonal landscapes, including cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. You should not miss this Taiwan tourist spot.

Wuling Farm

11. Yehliu Geopark

Witness the wonders of erosion at Yehliu Geopark, where unique rock formations, including the famous “Queen’s Head,” tourist spot have been sculpted by wind and water over millennia.

Yehliu Geopark

12. Yinyang Sea

Near the geopark, you’ll find the mesmerizing Yinyang Sea, where the contrasting colors of the water create a visually stunning and memorable sight. You should definitely add this to your Taiwan tourist spots itinerary.

Yinyang Sea

13. Thirteen-Story Ruins

Venture to the scenic northern coastline of Taiwan to explore the hauntingly beautiful Thirteen-Story Ruins, the remnants of an abandoned hotel that has become an intriguing Taiwan tourist spot.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

14. Golden Waterfall

Located nearby the Thirteen-Story Ruins, the Golden Waterfall gets its name from the golden hue caused by the presence of heavy metals in the water. The sight against the backdrop of the green mountains is truly captivating tourist spot.

Golden Waterfall

15. Jiufen Old Street

Transport yourself to a bygone era as you wander through the charming Jiufen Old Street. This quaint hillside village is famous for its narrow alleyways, teahouses, and stunning views of the coastline.

Jiufen Old Street

16. Shifen Waterfall and Old Street

Make a wish as you release sky lanterns in Shifen Old Street, then visit the nearby Shifen Waterfall, one of the most scenic waterfalls tourist spot in Taiwan.

Shifen Waterfall and Old Street

17. Maokong Gondola

For a unique perspective of Taipei’s landscape tourist spots, take a ride on the Maokong Gondola, which leads to Maokong Mountain, famous for its tea plantations and tea houses.

 Maokong Gondola

18. Taipei Zoo

Home to a diverse range of animals, including Taiwan’s beloved Giant Pandas, the Taipei Zoo is a family-friendly tourist spot worth exploring.

Taipei Zoo

19. Taipei 101 Observatory

Witness the grandeur of Taipei’s skyline from the Taipei 101 Observatory, one of the world’s tallest buildings. The view from the top is simply breathtaking, especially during sunset.

Taipei 101 Observatory

20. Ichiran

Taiwan is a food lover’s paradise, and no visit is complete without indulging in local delicacies like beef noodle soup, bubble tea, pineapple cakes, and oyster omelets.

Ichiran

21. Painted Animation Lane

Located in Taichung, this lively street features colorful murals and street art inspired by famous Taiwanese animations.

Painted Animation LaneP

22. Taichung Literature Museum

For literary enthusiasts, Taichung Literature Museum is a treasure trove of Taiwanese literary history and culture.

Taichung Literature Museum

23. Chun Shui Tang

Visit the birthplace of bubble tea at Chun Shui Tang in Taichung, where you can savor the original and authentic version of this globally beloved drink.

Chun Shui Tang

24. Miyahara – Taiwan

This stunning ice cream parlor in Taichung is housed in a former eye hospital and offers a delightful array of desserts and sweets.

 Miyahara - Taiwan

25. Paochueh Temple

Experience spiritual tranquility at Paochueh Temple, a magnificent Buddhist temple located in Kaohsiung.

 Paochueh Temple

26. Taipei Fine Arts Museum

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the contemporary and traditional Taiwanese artworks displayed at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum.

 Taipei Fine Arts Museum

27. Shilin Night Market

End your Taiwanese adventure with a visit to the bustling Shilin Night Market, where you can shop, eat, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Taiwan’s allure lies in its perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern charm. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, a food lover, or an art enthusiast, Taiwan tourist spots has something extraordinary to offer. So pack your bags, set your sights on Taiwan, and embark on an unforgettable journey through this captivating island nation.

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

17 Things to See and Do in Taiwan

The picturesque seaside mountain town scenery in Jiufen, Taiwan

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

People eating at a street-side stall at Keelung Night Market in Taiwan

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

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

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

Tea pickers working in the mountainous tea plantations of Taiwan

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

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

People walking around huge, sandstone colored rock formations in Yehliu Geopark, Taiwan

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

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

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

the Beitou Hot Springs just outside Taipei, Taiwan

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

Panoramic view of the lush and green Penghu Island, Taiwan

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

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

Traditional architecture in Kinmen, Taiwan

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

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

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

Green mountains covered in clouds with a small village in the foreground in Taiwan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Crowds of people walk under a traditional archway in the Ximending neighborhood Taipei, Taiwan

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

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

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

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

Expansive path with pagodas, leading up to the giant golden Big Budda, at Fo Guang Shan Monastery in Taiwan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip to Taiwan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

  • Formosa 101
  • Meander Taipei

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Pinay Solo Backpacker Itinerary Blog

TAIPEI TRAVEL GUIDE (Budget + Itinerary) 2019

by thepinay solobackpacker | Jul 3, 2019 | Featured , TAIPEI , TAIWAN , Travel Guide | 48 comments

Taipei, Taiwan was never on my bucketlist despite its proximity to the Philippines.  But because applying for a Taiwan tourist visa is more relaxed these days, I decided to travel to this city, which is roughly an hour and a half away by air.  Little did I know, that in my short visit in Taipei, it will win me over, reason why I was excited to blog this Taipei Travel Guide.

Taipei is the thriving capital of Taiwan, standing on a basin surrounded by mountains and the New Taipei City.  Interestingly, just like our country, it is deeply religious – largely dominated by Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism, among others.  Upon arrival in downtown Taipei, I was greeted by neon lights with Mandarin characters, towering buildings, upscale shopping malls, electronic centers, intricate temples, purring scooters and the mouthwatering smell of Taiwanese food sold at a busy night market.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

TAIPEI TAIWAN TRAVEL GUIDE 

How to get a taiwan visa in the philippines, *update: filipinos/philippine passport holders can enjoy visa-free entry to taiwan (tourism, business, visiting relatives) for a duration of up to 14 days until july 31, 2020., visa- free requirements for filipinos:.

1: Passport must have at least 6 months remaining validity from the date of entry (Diplomatic & official passport holders are not eligible for visa-free treatment.

2. A return ticket or on onward ticket to the next destination (and a visa for the traveler’s next destination if visa is required).

3. Must have no criminal record in Taiwan.

4. A proof of accomodation, such as hotel bookings or host/sonsor’s contact information/or arrangements of tour, travel. visa, events and meeting.

*Important: If you plan to stay in Taiwan for more than 14 days for the purpose of study, work, missionary, employment and other gainful activities are still required to obtain visa before entering Taiwan.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TAIPEI

When is the best time / month to visit Taipei?  Because Taipei is located on Northern Taiwan, it has a subtropical weather with an average temperature of 22 degrees Celsius. So you won’t really experience four distinct seasons here.  The best season to visit Taipei is during fall around November to early spring in April because of lesser rainfall.   Typhoon season in Taipei ends around October.  So you may want to avoid traveling here in May to August.

You may also want to avoid the Chinese New Year, which falls roughly around the end of January to early February when visiting Taipei.  This is peak season, so prices of hotels are more expensive, not to mention most restaurants and shops are closed because of the holiday.

WINTER IN TAIWAN is December to February, but the coldest months are January to March.

SPRING IN TAIWAN is from March to May but take note that May to June is also rainy season. I visited in May and it’s almost always raining (especially in the afternoon) in Taipei.

SUMMER IN TAIWAN is June to August and mind you, Taipei can be as hot and humid as Manila! But expect some typhoons during this season.

AUTUMN IN TAIWAN is September to November.

WHERE TO STAY IN TAIPEI

For those asking where to stay in Taipei and where to stay in Taiwan on a budget, I recommend booking a hotel nearby MRT stations like Ximen Station, Taipei 101, Dingxi Station or Taipei Main Station, etc. for convenience.  Here’s a list of budget Taipei hotels.

TAIPEI BUDGET HOTELS

agoda 101 single

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

AGODA 02 HOTEL

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE 

TAIPEI CURRENCY AND MONEY EXCHANGE

Taipei uses New Taipei Dollar (NTD) with an exchange rate of NTD 1 = USD 0.03 / PHP 1.66.  Take note that you can only exchange money at the airport or at banks, so if you are traveling to Taipei on a weekend, exchange your money at Taiwan Airport, before leaving the Philippines or withdraw from the ATMs scattered around Taipei.  You can also exchange money at your hotel, but the exchange rate is really low.

TAIPEI WI-FI/ INTERNET

Pocket wi-fi rental.

Although Taipei City offers free Wi-Fi, I find it unreliable, sometimes the connection can get real slow and oftentimes I get a security warning (unsecured connection) that keeps on popping up on my phone.  Thus, I highly recommend getting a portable Wi-Fi router when traveling in Taipei.  You can rent pocket Wi-Fi at the airport, but devices may ran out quickly, so to make sure, I suggest to RENT POCKET WIFI HERE  and just claim it once you arrive at Taiwan Airport (Taoyuan International Airport ).  You get a 4G unlimited Wi-Fi with roughly 8 hours battery life and it is dirt cheap!

TAIWAN SIMCARD

But if you really insist on getting a Taiwan sim card, better to BUY SIMCARD HERE   and just pick it up at Taiwan Airport (Taoyuan International Airport).   Purchasing in advance online is still cheaper and you can pick from 3, 7 or 10 days connection.

HOW TO GET TO TAIPEI FROM MANILA, PHILIPPINES

My recent trip to Taipei was sponsored by a group of hotels and hostels in Taiwan.  I spent 8 days in Taiwan (stayed 3 days in Taipei).  I flew via Cebu Pacific from Manila and my return trip was via Philippine Airlines (PAL).  Other airlines flying to Taiwan include Jetstar, Airasia, China Air and Eva Air . You can check out the official website of these airlines to compare rates. Flight to Taiwan from the Philippines is quite cheap, cheaper than flying to Batanes !

My friend and I was also able to snag a cheap roundtrip ticket to Taiwan from Manila, Philippines for only PHP 4,000 (with 15 kg checked-in baggage) for June via Cebu Pacific.  Do watch out for seat sales and travel fares!

At NAIA Terminal 3, I was asked to pay for PHP 1, 620 / USD 33 for the travel tax, the terminal fee for PHP 600 / USD 12 was already included in my ticket.

HOW TO GET TO TAIPEI CITY FROM TAIPEI AIRPORT

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Taipei has two airports: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport and Songshan Airport .  Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport caters mostly to international flights, so if you are coming from Manila, Philippines, you will most likely land here.  Meanwhile, Songshan Airport located in downtown Taipei serves mostly domestic flights and trips to Japan and China.  I’ve been to both since I landed in Taoyuan International Airport and the taxi driver made a mistake of sending me to Songshan Airport instead of Songshan Train Station (talk about language barrier).

There are 3 options to get to Taipei City from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport: by train (Metro Transit Rail / MTR), by bus or by renting a car.

BY TRAIN / METRO RAIL TRANSIT

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The fastest way to get to Taipei, New Taipei City and Taoyuan from Taiwan Airport (Taoyuan International Airport)  is by train – the Taiwan Airport MRT .   The rapid transit has Express and Commuter trains.   Taiwan MRT Airport fare is NTD 160 / PHP 265 / USD 9 for Express Train.  Operating hours is from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

The Express Train caters to airport passengers.  If you are heading to Taiwan Airport Terminal 1, you will alight at the 4 th stop – A12 Station / Terminal 1 .  But if you are bound for Terminal 2, alight at the 5 th stop – A13/ Terminal 2 .  Travel time for Express Taiwan Airport Train is about 38 minutes.

If you are taking the Commuter Train , it has more stops, so you will alight at the 12 th station – A12 Station if you are going to Terminal 1 and 13th stop – A13/ Terminal 2. Travel time is way longer – 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Taiwan has 4 rechargeable IC Cards: Easy Card, Happy Card, Icash and IPass .  I bought the Easy Card and I was able to use it on MRT/trains and buses in Taipei and Kaohsiung.

At Taiwan Airport, there’s a wealth of buses to choose from that can take you to Taipei City center. More information HERE .    Bus fare is NTD 125 / PHP 207 / USD 4.16 to NTD 145 / PHP 240 / USD 5.   However, the last trip is usually until midnight.

So if you are arriving in Taiwan Airport after midnight, you can take the Airport Shuttle Bus 1819 to Taipei Main Station and from there, just take a taxi to your hotel since the Taipei MRT only runs until 12 midnight.   Or if you are staying near Songshan Train Station or you are headed to Songshan Airport , ride the Airport Shuttle Bus 1840 .  Travel time is approximately 55 minutes and bus fare is around NTD 125 / PHP 205 / USD 14.  Buses leave every 15- 20 minutes and they operate 24 hours a day.

If you are arriving in Taiwan around 11:00 PM to 07:00 AM and you missed the last airport bus or airport train, you can also  RESERVE AIPORT TRANSFER HERE Pick up at Taoyuan International Airport and hassle-free transfer to Taipei and New Taipei City.  Fare is about NTD 299 / PHP 500 / USD 10.

You can also choose a private car Taiwan airport transfer, good for 4 persons.  Fare is around PHP 1,379 (TWD 825/USD 27/ SGD 37), good for 4 persons.   BOOK PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFER HERE

GETTING AROUND IN TAIPEI, TAIWAN

By hop on/ hop off bus.

Taipei 45

Taipei has just recently offered the hop on/hop off tour bus that covers the top attractions in Taipei. You can RESERVE BUS TICKET HERE

BY TRAIN (MRT)

Taipei 58

Taipei Metro Rail Train is dub as one of the best in the world and it’s easy to understand why.  Unlike the complex subways in Japan, Taipei’s train system is pretty easy to use because there are only 5 lines.  And it is super convenient since most of Taipei’s attractions are located near the MRT/ train stations.  MRT fares usually costs NTD 20/ PHP 33 / USD 0.67   – NTD 50 /PHP 183/USD 83.  Here’s a photo of the Taipei MRT Map, take note that the boxed numbers are the train fares (e.g. 20, 25, 35).

Taipei MTR

I highly recommend purchasing a rechargeable IC Card such as Easy Card , Happy Card, ICash and IPass so you don’t have to buy train tickets for every ride.  You can also use the IC card in many buses across Taipei and even at neighboring cities like Kaohsiung.    Plus if you use the IC Card, you get a discounted fare, I noticed the usually NTD 20 / PHP 33 / USD 0.67 fare becomes NTD 16 / PHP 27 / USD 0.53 whenever I use my Easy Card.

By the way, you can purchase a 24 hour pass for the MRT at NTD 180 / PHP 298 / USD 6, 48 hour pass costs NTD 280 / PHP 464 / USD 9 and a 72 hour pass will set you back NTD 380 / PHP 630 / USD 13.

Taipei MTR LOCKERS

To top up the IC Card, you can top at the train station or at convenience stores like 7Eleven.

You can also ask for an MRT Map at the Information Counter of any MRT stations in Taipei and you can get a Taipei Travel Map at Taipei Main Station.  If you are a first-timer in Taipei and you want to make sure you are on the right track, you can also download the Taipei Metro App on Google Play.

Taipei MRT has lockers in case you need to leave your luggage. Also, eating and drinking beyond the yellow line (prior to entering the MRT) is not allowed.

BY CAR RENTAL

For hassle-free tour around Taipei, you can rent a car rental from 2 days to 7 days including Taiwan Airport pick up.   RENT A CAR HERE

TOP PLACES TO SEE IN TAIPEI

Chiang kai-shek memorial hall ( 中正紀念堂 ).

CHIANG KAI-SHEK MEMORIAL HALL

CHIANG KAI-SHEK MEMORIAL HALL

One of the top attractions in Taipei is the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall and this place is surrounded by a beautiful manicured garden.  Here, you’ll also find the National Theater and the National Concert Hall .  But the most photographed is the Memorial Hall itself for Chiang Kai Shek, the former President of Taiwan (Republic of China) from 1928 to 1975.  The iconic white building is octagonal-shaped with blue roof and two stairs leading to its main hall where a massive statue of Chiang Kai Shek is sitting.  If you are lucky enough, you can witness the changing of the guards here which happens every hour until 5:00 PM.

Entrance Fee: Free

Open Hours: 09:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, except for Chinese New Year Eve & Chinese New Year.

Address: No. 21, Zhongshan South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100

How to get to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall:

Take the MRT green or red line and alight at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial (中正紀念堂).

SUN-YAT SEN MEMORIAL HALL ( 國父紀念館 )

Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall may not as grandiose as the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall but definitely  it’s worth a visit, after all this place is dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat Sen, father of Republic of China (Taiwan).  The memorial hall is surrounded by a beautifully manicured park known as Zongshan Park.  Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall is located near Taipei 101.   I was able to witness the changing of the guards here around 5: 00 PM.

Open Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, daily, except for Chinese New Year Eve & Chinese New Year.

Address: No. 505, Section 4, Ren’ai Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110

How to get to Sun Yat Memorial Hall ( 國父紀念館 ):

Ride the MRT Blue Line and get off at S.Y.S Memorial Hall.

TAIPEI 101 ( 台北 101)

TAIPEI 101

Taipei 101 (台北101) is Taiwan’s most famous and most photographed landmark.  This soaring building was once named as the tallest building in the world. Tourists going to Taipei for the first-time make it a point to see this icon.  Taipei 101 houses an upscale shopping mall and boast of the Guinness World of Record fastest elevator in the world.  Imagine it can take guests on top for only 37 seconds.

Tourists can tour inside Taipei 101 and climb the Observatory on the 89 th Floor via the elevator to get a 360 degree view of Taipei.  Observatory entrance is at Level 5.  Entrance fee to Taipei 101 is NTD 600 / PHP 994 / USD 20, Student is NTD 540 / PHP 895/ USD 18 and Child (115 cm) free. But you can BOOK DISCOUNTED TICKET HERE.   Don’t miss the museum inside. And while you are in the area, you can also go shopping at Xinyi Shopping District ( 信義區 ) .

Taipei 101 Open Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM -10:00 PM

Sunday – 11:00 AM -9:30 PM

How to get to Taipei 101:

Ride the train on the Red Line 2 (Xiangshan Train) to Taipei 101 Station.  You can also take the Blue Line 5 to Taipei City Hall Station located below the Hankyu Department Store, head south to Xinyi Shopping District towards Taipei 101.

ELEPHANT MOUNTAIN ( 象山 )

TAIPEI ELEPHANT MOUNTAIN

Undoubtedly, the Elephant Mountain has one of the best views of the city but be prepared to hike up the summit with a lot of stairs!  Visit during the late afternoon and catch the sunset here, wait for the blue hour and early evening to take photo of Taipei.  

How to get Elephant Mountain:

Alight at Xiangshan Station (象山) and take Exit 2.  Follow the right path and walk along the side of the park until you get to the end of the road.  Here, you’ll see a temple on the hill. Turn left and the entrance to Xiangshan Hiking Trail (象山登山步道) is just a few steps away. The hike should take about 20 – 30 minutes depending on your stamina.

NATIONAL PALACE MUSEUM / GuGong ( 國立故宮博物院 )

TAIPEI 3

One of the most beautiful museums I’ve visited is the National Palace Museum in Taipei, Taiwan.  It houses a large number of ancient Chinese artifacts and artworks. As the name suggest, the building looks like a palace. The ticket here includes access to the adjacent Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines and the Zhishan Garden next door.

Taipei PALACE MUSEUM DISPLAY 4

Entrance Fee: Adult: NTD 250 / PHP 414 / USD 8, Student NTD 150 / PHP 248 / USD 5

Open Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 8:30 AM -6:30 PM

Friday – Saturday: 8:30 AM -9:00 PM

Sunday: 8:30 AM -6:30 PM

Address: No. 221, Section 2, Zhishan Road, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111

Taipei PALACE MUSEUM DISPLAY

How to get to National Palace Museum/ Gugong ( 國立故宮博物院 ):

Ride MRT Red Line and alight at Shilin Station (士林). Exit and walk towards the highway, look for the bus stop and ride Bus R30 to National Palace Museum.  Fare is NTD 17 / PHP 28/ USD 0.56. Take note of the last trip for the bus – 6:55 PM. Going back, you can drop by at the Shilin Night Market. Take the MRT at Shilin station and alight at Jiantian Station.

NIGHT MARKETS

Taipei 57

A visit to Taipei will not be complete without trying the food on one of its many night markets.  The most popular and most touristy is Shilin Night Market ( 士林夜市 ) .

How to get to Shilin Night Market

Ride MRT Red Line and alight at Jiantan Station (not Xilin Station).

DALONGDONG BA-ON TEMPLE (大龙峒保安宫)

Dalongdong Bao’an Temple (大龙峒保安宫) is one of Taipei’s most stunning temples dedicated to the saint Baosheng Dadi. It is no surprise it was inducted into UNESCO for Cultural Heritage Conservation.

TAIPEI CONFUCIUS TEMPLE (台北市孔廟)

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Standing across the Dalongdong Bao’an Temple is the Taipei Confucius Temple.

Entrance Fee: Free but donations are highly encouraged

Daily 5:00 Am to 10:00 PM

How to get to Dalongdong Ba-On Temple and Taipei Confucius Temple:

Ride MRT Red Line 2 to Yuanshan Station.  Take Exit 2 and walk towards Kulun Street.  Turn right at the Dalong Street intersection and head straight until you see the Taipei Confucius Temple.  If you want to visit Dalong Baoan Temple, turn left on Hami Street.

LONGSHAN TEMPLE ( 龙山寺 )

One of the most photographed temples in Taipei, Longshan Temple. This Buddhist Temple in honor for Guanyin was constructed by the immigrants from Fujian province sometime in 1738.

How to get to Longshan Temple:

Ride the MRT Blue Line 5 and get off at Longshan Temple.  Take Exit 1 where you can find Longshan Temple north of the station plaza.

XIMENDING YOUTH SHOPPING DISTRICT

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Ximending Youth Shopping District is walking distance from my hotel.  This shopping haven was established during the Japanese colonial period as recreation area.  Today, it is packed with shops and restaurants and is the go to place of Taipei youths. While in the area, make time to visit the Read House Theater and Zongshan Hall.

taipei shopping

                                                     How to get to Ximending Youth Shopping District: Ride   MRT Blue or Green Line to Ximen.

RED HOUSE THEATER (西門紅樓)

This was the first attraction I searched in Taipei because it was a few minutes away from my hotel according to the map, I didn’t realize I was already standing in front of it because it was under construction.  This is right in front of Ximen Station adjacent to the Police Station.  The Red House Theater is the main LGBT district in Taipei, surrounded by shops, cafes and restaurants.  It was constructed in 1908 and home to Taipei’s creative and culture trade.

How to get to Red House Theater:

Take MRT Blue or Green Line and alight at Ximen Station. Head towards Exit 1. The Red House Theater is just in front of Ximen Station.

TAIPEI TIANHOU TEMPLE ( 天后宮 )

I stumbled on Tianhou Temple a block away from my hotel in Ximending District . This temple is dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess and also known as “Ximending Mazu Temple”.  It is one of the 3 major temples in Taiwan during the Qing Era along with Longshan Temple.

Entrance Fee: Free, but donations are highly encouraged.

6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

How to get to Taipei Tianhou Temple

Ride MRT Blue or Green Line and walk towards Exit 6.  Head towards Chengdu Road, the temple is standing on the right side beside rows of shops.

CHEAP TAIPEI DAY TOURS

 jiufen village & the northeast coast.

JiufenShuttleBusfromXimen (1)

  • Explore the once prosperous town of Jiufen, an interesting historical destination with a unique teahouse culture
  • Visit Pitou Cape with its coastline mottled with caves and sea cliffs
  • Explore the fascinating shoreline and amazing rock formations at Nanya
  • Inclusive of comfortable coach transportation including hotel pick up and drop off
  • Tour with a company with over 25 years of experience and excellent reputation

Tour includes a visit to Jiufen Village, Chinkuashih Village, Pitou Cape, Nanya Rock FormationsBay of Two Colors(Ying Yang Sea).

Tour is inclusive of:

Hotel pick up & drop off (from downtown Taipei City hotels) All transportation & driver fees Services of an English-speaking guide

RESERVE TOUR HERE

If you don’t want to join the tour package, and just want to do a DIY tour of Jiufen, you can RESERVE SHUTTLE BUS HERE

This is inclusive of: Round trip shuttle bus from Ximen → Shifen → Jiufen → Ximen Experienced driver (with very basic English) Tolls and parking fees

Morning trip departs at 8:45 AM and ends at around 3:45 PM in Ximen.  Noon Tour starts at 1:15 PM and ends around 8:15 PM

TAIWAN NORTH COAST TOUR

Tour includes a visit to Bitou Cape Park, Nanya rock formations, Beiguan Tidal Parka and Sandiao Cape Lighthouse. RESERVE TOUR HERE

All transportation and driver fees Chinese speaking driver/guide (if you prefer an English or Japanese speaking driver/guide, kindly book at least 7 days before your preferred travel date and please indicate your preference at check out) Lunch Insurance provided by the operator

YAMINGSHAN NATIONAL PARK TOUR

Tour includes a visit to Yangmingshan National Park and Kawayu Hot Spring Bath. RESERVE TOUR HERE

Inclusive of: Hotel pick up & drop off (from downtown Taipei City hotels). Pick up from 1:00 – 2:00 PM All transportation & driver fees Services of an English-speaking guide Hot springs admission & towel

THOUSAND ISLAND LAKE AND PINGLIN TEA PLANTATION TAIPEI

The tour starts around 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM and ends around 12:30 PM. It includes a visit to Thousand Isalnd Lake, Pinglin Tea Plantation, Pinglin Tea Museum (closed the first Monday of each month; visit to Pinglin Old Street instead) and Wen Mountain Pouchong tea tasting. RESERVE TOUR HERE

DIY DAY TRIPS FROM TAIPEI

YAMINGSHAN NATIONAL PARK ( 阳明山 )

Yangmishan National Park is pretty much interesting any season.  Visit here from January to March for its cherry blossoms. Meanwhile, calla lilies are sprinkled everywhere from April to May and azaleas are in full bloom from May to October.  Silver glass dominates the landscape during October to November. The park is also known for its wealth of hot springs around Xingyi and Beitou Road. Buy a 1 day bus ticket for unlimited rides to famous attractions around Yamingshan National Park.

How to get to Yamingshan National Park

Take MRT and alight at Jiantan Station Exit 1.  Head towards the left to the bus station.  Look for north-bound buses like R5 or S15 or S17 to Yangmigshan Station.  You can use cash or your IC Card like Easy Card for the bus fare.

Alternatively, you can also take Bus 260 from Taipei Main Station and just purchase the unlimited rides on shuttle 108 for NTD 60 / PHP 99 / USD 2.

YEHLIU GEOPARK ( 野柳地質公園 )

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Situated in Wanli District in New Taipei, Taiwan, Yehliu Geopark is a popular day trip excursion for tourists visiting Taipei.  This area known for its rock formations including the hoodoo stones sprinkled around its coast.

How to get to Yehliu Geopark

Option 1: There is a shuttle bus that leaves for Yehliu daily around 9:00 AM and returns around 5:45 PM.  The shuttle bus will take you to Yiang Yang Seam 13 Layer remains, Golden Waterfall, Shifen Old Streets and Jiufen. RESERVE SHUTTLE BUS HERE

Option 2:   Look for the North Coast Shuttle Bus at MRT Tamsui Station or Keelung Station. Bus fare (unlimited rides) is NTD 200 / PHP 331/ USD 7.

JIUFEN ( 九份 )

Jiufen was an erstwhile mining town, now turned a poular tourist destination because of its charming tea houses and scenic view of the Pacific Ocean.  It is also the setting of popular period movies like Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away and Hou Hsiao-hsien’s film A City of Sadness (which won the Golden Lion award at the 1989 Venice Film Festival).

How to get to Jiufen ( 九份 ):

Option 1 (Recommnded): At Ximen, there is a shuttle bus that leaves for Jiufen daily around 9:00 AM and returns around 5:45 PM.  The shuttle bus will take you to Yiang Yang Seam 13 Layer remains, Golden Waterfall, Shifen Old Streets and Yehliu Geopark.         for a hassle-free tour  of Yehliu , Shifen and Jifen.    It’s a roundtrip shuttle bus from Ximen → Yehliu → Yiang Yang Sea → 13 Layers → Golden Waterfall → Jiufen → Shifen → Ximen.  So in one day, you’ll be able to visit  Jiufen and Shifen.  Rountrip fare is around NTD 460 / PHP 770 / USD 15. You’ll save a lot!   RESERVE SHUTTLE BUS HERE

If you also want to visit Yehliu Geopark, might as well RESERVE SHUTTLE BUS HERE

Option 2: Take the train en route to Ruifang Station at Taipei Main Station. Walk towards the exit facing the Wellcome Supermarket and turn left towards Mingdeng Road.  Look for Local Resident Plaza, which is the bus station.  Bus with route 827 and route 788 goes to Jiufen.  The bus stop next to the police station is the bus stop for buses en route to Jiufen, while the one across the police station is the bus stop for buses en route to Taipei.  Make sure you are boarding the bus towards Jiufen, when in doubt, ask the locals.

Option 3:   Take Exit 1 at MRT Zhongxia Fuxing. Ride Bus Route 1062 (Keelung Bus) to Jinguashi.  Get off at Jiufen.  Bus fare is roughly 1 hour and fare is about NTD 102 / PHP 169 / USD 3.39.

SHIFEN OLD STREET AND SHIFEN WATERFALL ( 十分老街 )

taiwan tourist spots 2019

This popular road beckons tourists because of its sky lanterns, restaurants and shops.  Catch the train running on Shifen Railway Station and also check out the Jingan Suspension Bridge at the back of Shifen Station connecting Shifen village with Nanshan village. Don’t miss the beautiful Shifen Waterfall, about 20 minute walk from Shifen Old Street.

HOW TO GET TO SHIFEN  FROM TAIPEI

  Ride the shuttle bus to Shifen. RESERVE SHUTTLE HERE

PINGXI ( 平溪 )

Pingxi comes alive during Lantern Festival and Chinese New Year because visitors can release into the sky Chinese lanterns. Visitors also go here to see the Pingxi Old Street, a market area constructed on a hill with a railway. This place is peppered with age old shop houses.

Option 1: Ride the shuttle bus to Shifen at Ximen. It has daily trips around 9:00 AM and returns around 5:45 PM.  .  So in one day, you’ll be able to visit  Jiufen and Shifen.  Roundtrip fare is around NTD 460 / PHP 770 / USD 15. You’ll save a lot!   RESERVE SHUTTLE BUS HERE (includes Jiufen + Shifen)

Option 2:  At MRT Muzha Station, ride Bus 1076 en route to Pingxi.

Wulai District ( 乌来区 )

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Wulai District is home to the original inhabitants of Taiwan – the Yúanzhùmín and the closest aboriginal village to Taipei.  It is also famous for its natural hot springs, the Wulai Falls, Wulai Gondola and Wulai scenic train.

How to get to Wulai District

Take MRT Green Line 3 and alight at Xindian Station. Exit to Bus Stop B along Beiyi Road and ride Bus 849 en route to Wulai.  Get off at the last station. You can pay in cash or your IC Card.

TAMSUI FISHERMAN’S WHARF ( 渔人码头 )

Known for its Lover Bridge, party boats, beautiful sunsets and seafood.

How to get to Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf

Ride MRT Red Line 2 and alight at Tamsui Station.  Transfer to bus 26, 837 or 836 to Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf.

WHERE TO EAT IN TAIPEI

taipei food 22

YONGKANG STREET and DIN TAI FUNG RESTAURANT

Yongkang Street is Taiwan’s food mecca. You’ll find the original Din Tai Fung (鼎泰丰) Restaurant here opened in 1949 along Xinyi Road.  It is famous for its soup dumpling.  But if you are visiting Taipei 101, you can also look for Din Tai Fung at B1.

Honestly, everywhere I buy, I like the food being served to me in Taipei.  Night markets are a great way to taste local food in Taipei, and some of the best are Shilin Night Market, Raohe Street Night market, Tainan Flowers Night Market, Huayuan Night Market, Feng Chia Night Market and Keelung Miaokou Night Market.

FOOD TO TRY IN TAIPEI

Beef noodles

Soup dumplings

ô-á-chian 蚵仔煎 (oyster omelet)

Ba-luah e 麻辣鍋 (spicy hotpot)

Pigs blood rice cake 豬血糕 (ti-huih-ko)

Stinky tofu

Pineapple cake

Môa-chî 麻糍 (moachi)

Boabing (shaved ice mountain)

O’ahping (shaved taro ice cream)

DRINKS TO TRY IN TAIPEI

Bubble tea 珍珠奶茶

Sian-chháu 仙草 (grass jelly)

TAIPEI ITINERARY (4 Days /3 Nights)

taipei food 23

Here’s my sample Taipei itinerary for 4 days 3 nights with budget, feel free to  modify depending on your travel schedule.  You can also do Yehliu, Shifen and Jifen in 1 day if you BOOK A SHUTTLE HERE   (includes Shifen + Jiufen).  It’s a round trip shuttle bus from Ximen → Yehliu → Yiang Yang Sea → 13 Layers → Golden Waterfall → Jiufen → Shifen → Ximen.  So in one day, you’ll be able to visit  Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen and Shifen.  Roundtrip fare is around NTD 680 / PHP 1,133 / USD 23.

ALSO READ: SAMPLE TAIWAN ITINERARIES ( 5 DAYS)

  taipei trip budget.

ximen district

People often ask, how much money to bring when traveling to Taipei? It’s a tricky question as it depends on your spending habits, where you are staying and how long you are staying. But Taipei is inexpensive, and meals usually start at NTD 60 / PHP 99 / USD 1.99 up.  Accommodations can go as low as NTD 700/ PHP 1,157 / USD 23.25 per night.  Water and drinks starts at NTD 15 / PHP 25 / USD .50.  A budget of NTD 1,500 / PHP 2,478 / USD 50 would be safe (excluding accommodation).   Most of the tourist attractions in Taipei are free anyway, save for The Palace Museum and Taipei 101 Observatory.

Here’s a sample list of my Taipei trip expenses and budget for a 4 days, 3 night stay.  I spent around PHP 8,189 / NTD 4,954 / USD 166.50.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

TAIPEI TAIWAN TRAVEL TIPS

For hassle-free atour  of Yehliu , Shifen and Jifen, BOOK SHUTTLE BUS HERE.    It’s a roundtrip shuttle bus from Ximen → Yehliu → Yiang Yang Sea → 13 Layers → Golden Waterfall → Jiufen → Shifen → Ximen.  So in one day, you’ll be able to visit  Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen and Shifen.  Roundtrip fare is around NTD 680 / PHP 1,133 / USD 23. You’ll save a lot!

Purchase a rechargeable IC Card such as Easy Card, Happy Card, Icash and IPass.  I bought the Easy Card and I was able to use it on MRT/trains and buses in Taipei and Kaohsiung.

Get a tourist map at the Taipei Main Station. You can ask for MRT maps at any MRT stations. You can also just take a photo of the map at the MRT stations. Otherwise, download the Taipei Metro App on Google Play.

Expect language barrier, so prepare your Google translate.

Rent a pocket Wi-Fi at the airport. Cheaper if you RESERVE POCKET WIFI HERE   and just pick it up at the airport.

The more famous night markets sells more expensive food, you can buy your food at hawker stalls or eateries sprinkled around the city if you want to save.

There are vending machines at the airport for drinks, buy their instead of buying at airport restaurants, you will save a lot!

TAIWAN BEST BUDGET HOTELS

Hualien travel guide (budget + itinerary), hualien things to do blog, top kaoshiung attractions and how to get there.

About the Blogger : Gael is a Filipina travel blogger. Her work has appeared in local and international publications.

Follow her on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .

For advertisements, sponsorship and partnerships, you may reach her at gaelhilotinblog (at) gmail (dot) com.

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48 comments.

Janna

Thank you for this. It is very comprehensive and useful to me because me and mom are going to Taipei on July. This article is very much complete. I hope we can also follow your guidelines.

thepinay solobackpacker

Thanks for dropping by, Janna! Have fun! 🙂

Lejanie

This is so helpful! Will follow these travel guide on my first solo backpacking. 🙂

Watsing

I am going to Taipei with my mom this coming July. Both of us were first timers to travel abroad. We are a bit nervous about the immigration thing. May I ask what questions they usually ask?Thanks

They didn’t ask me anything! Just the name of the hotel! Don’t fret, usually they are lenient sa family na nagta travel. 🙂

Mhai

Hello po, in addition sa tanong, wala ba silang hinahanap na other docs maliban sa visa and passport? thanks in advance

Yung ROC Certificate lang

Valkiria

Hi, thank you for this.. this is so helpful ! .. Me and my sister are going to Taiwan this coming October. We will surely consider your tips. 🙂

Z

This was so helpful! Thank you! I normally just wing things when I travel, it’s nice to be prepared for a change. Keep posting, please! 🙂

Zia

Hello, we are 1 week away to our trip in Taipei. We are planning to have a 3 days DIY itinerary. Which card is better to use the Easy Card or Taipei Pass?

I used Easy Card 🙂

fred

Do you happen to know any pocket wifi rentals within Longshan area? I wanted to book the ones at the airport but they close at 1AM and my flight will arrive at 2AM.

I was thinking of getting the pocket wifi in the city already once I reached the hotel. Or, you know of any wifi rentals in the airport open 24hrs?

Thanks much and more power!

No, I’m sorry. You can buy simcard if you want

yola

This will help us!!, we are going to Taiwan this coming Dec. Thanks for all the tips!! God Bless!!!

Irene

Hi po. Now that it’s visa free to go to Taiwan for Filipinos, so wala napo kaming kailangan ihanda na other documents? Like same lang po going to HK? I just want to clarify kasi baka magkaproblema kami sa immigration.

Hi Irene, I have mentioned some documents required like return tickets and hotel reservations. It’s visa free. 🙂

ayah

hi what if we don’t have a hotel reservations? what will we do? but i have a brother there.. is it possible if i used the address of my brother instead?

You can use his address instead

Val

Nice. Very detailed. Will be useful for our July 2018 4D3N trip. 😄

Enjoy your trip! 🙂

Timmie

Just want to thank you because this blog is an answer to most of our inquiries.were travelling tom and excited to explore taiwan..screenshots all your directions to the monumentals places.thank you so much

Welcome, Timmie. Enjoy Taiwan! 🙂

michelleii

your itinerray was great i’ll definitely used this in my upcoming trip to taipei

Welcome. Have fun! 🙂

Alysa

I also have the same problem, ill be arriving at Taoyuan Airport past 1am so im looking for pocket wifi rental in the city. But this is sooo helpful though! Thank you for sharing your itinerary! 🙂

Buy a simcard instead. 🙂

Anish Hiresha Verma

That is such a wonderful article that you shared. Thanks for that.

Also, could you tell me as to what things that can be purchased from Taipei, including beauty products?

Ack, not sure about beauty products. But there’s a lot of facial masks there

ZARRAH

Sir, How to avail the ROC?

Yvonne

Hi, I really enjoyed reading your travel experience to Taiwan. Makes me wanna start planning and go immediately. Thank you for the comprehensive reviews. It makes travelling to Taiwan so easy. Those days we used to travel with tour groups and its touch and go on the places. Nowadays, with the internet and helpful site like yours make DIY travelling doable and affordable.

Jay Condino

Just for save up!

Sarah Anne

Good am! Ask ko lang po kung anong tinatanong sa immigration kapag first timer? Solo lang po akong aalis pero pupuntahan ko po yung boyfriend ko. He’s working at Taiwan po.

Bella

Hi, have booked our flight on July31,2018 and will stay there until Aug4, can I just confirm that I can still travel there on July31 visa free since no extension has been announced yet? Thanks

Extended until July 31, 2019 daw po

foreigners in taiwan

great detailed information ~

Belle

HI! Your blog is sooo helpful but may I know why you didn’t take the hop on hop off bus for the 4days and 3nights?? Thanks! 😊

Pam

Thank you! So helpful!!!

welcome, have fun!

Kristel

Hello maam.pupunta po sana ako ng taiwan to visit my husband don din po sa dorm nya ako tutuloy. Bibili nalang po ba ng ticket diretso airpot? Ano pong kelangan at pano po ba maam? Salamat

Please read the blog

Sarah

Thank you once again Ms Gael.

My 16 yr old son just took off this morning to Taipei from Perth, WA “to have a wander around for 2 days and 3 nights ” with a very short notice. He’s got this itchy feet and travel bug within him that he can’t wait to take off as soon as payday comes. I dropped by here to see and read insights from your recent travel and alas, just what I need at this very moment. It would be too late to fly out now but this is a very handy reference should winter skies will clear for us to fly soon and enjoy the Taipei vibes ourselves.

Hi Sarah, hope your son enjoys his trip. Thanks for dropping by. Safe travels! 🙂

Ranveer

How about the vaccinations? do we need to get any prior to our travel

Not required

Rolyn

Saving this for my future reference. Big help. Thanks!

welcome, enjoy Taiwan!

Cat

will be travelling there in sept 2019…would you know if the visas have to be acquired beforehand or can be given there at entry?

Taiwan visa-free extended until JUly 31, 2020. 🙂

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21 Best Things to Do in Taiwan + Tourist Spots, Itinerary & Budget

You are currently viewing 21 Best Things to Do in Taiwan + Tourist Spots, Itinerary & Budget

Planning to visit Taiwan? This is your comprehensive Taiwan Travel Guide featuring the best things to do in Taiwan, must-visit tourist spots, places to stay, and sample itinerary and estimated budget.

Taiwan, a state situated near China, is the perfect blend of everything a tourist could wish for on their vacation. The island nation boasts modern, urban cities, stunning mountainous regions, and traditional Chinese temples that exude an authentic charm. With such a diverse range of landscapes and environments, Taiwan offers a plethora of things to do that are sure to captivate travelers of all types.

The country is also renowned for its vibrant night markets, which are some of the best in the world, offering an extensive selection of delectable eats and unique shopping experiences that cater to all tastes.

No matter what your interests may be, Taiwan has something to offer. Whether it’s immersing yourself in nature, delving into culture and history, indulging in delectable cuisine, or simply enjoying the buzz of the city, Taiwan is a destination that never fails to impress. Find cheap flights to Taipei

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Here’s our list of the 21 best things to do in Taiwan for your next vacation!

Booking via Klook? Use our promo code ESCAPEMANILA and get a 5% discount on hotel bookings and 3% on activities.

Best Things To Do in Taiwan

Experience lihpao land theme park, shan lan cafe at landis resort yangmingshan, visit the national palace museum.

A perfect way to kick-start your Taiwan vacation is to delve into the rich culture and history of the region. The National Palace Museum , which first opened its doors in 1965, provides an extensive overview of over 8,000 years of history in Taiwan. It is one of the top tourist spots in Taiwan that a visitor shouldn’t miss. The museum’s collection boasts a vast array of Chinese art, including carvings, paintings, calligraphy, and ceramics, featuring a rich collection of 7,000 pieces.

Two of the must-see pieces in the museum are the Early Spring by Guo Xi, a renowned painting from 1072, and the Jadeite Cabbage carving. With its impressive collection and significant cultural importance, a visit to the National Palace Museum in Taiwan is an excellent way to get an in-depth understanding of the island’s culture and heritage.

Visit Taipei 101

Taipei 101 is an impressive engineering feat and the world’s first of its kind. It towers over the city at 508 meters high, comprising 101 stories, and was designed as a representation of the fusion of Asian tradition with technological advancement. The structure features a postmodern design mixed with pan-Chinese and Asian elements and was built to withstand the frequent typhoons and earthquakes in Taiwan.

The Taipei 101 Observatory is a must-visit attraction in Taiwan. Located 382 meters above ground on the 89th floor, it provides a commanding 360-degree view of Taipei and the surrounding basin. Visitors can also see the massive damper, weighing 660 metric tons, which helps stabilize the building during high winds and seismic activity. The observatory offers high-power binoculars, a restaurant, pre-recorded audio tour guides in seven languages, and souvenir shops.

Explore Ximending

Ximending is a bustling neighborhood in Taipei’s Wanhua District that is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. The first pedestrianized area in the city, it offers a unique blend of entertainment, shopping, and food that is unlike any other in Taiwan.

A visit to Ximending is one of the best things to do in Taiwan.

Reminiscent of Shinjuku in Japan but with its own distinct Taiwanese flair, Ximending is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Taipei. Although busy both day and night, the neighborhood truly comes alive after dark when the neon lights illuminate the streets and the aroma of street food fills the air. Whether you’re looking for a taste of local cuisine, unique shopping experiences, or live entertainment, Ximending has it all. A visit here is one of the best things to do in Taiwan .

Go on a food trip at the Shilin Night Market

Night markets are an integral part of Taiwanese culture, and the Shilin Night Market in Taipei is the oldest, largest, and most well-known night market in the city. Situated near MRT Jiantan Station, the market is a labyrinth of sprawling alleys lined with food and merchandise vendors, quaint shops, and carnival games.

Going on a food trip at Shilin Night Market is one of the best things to do in Taiwan.

The market’s centerpiece is a food court featuring 539 stalls that offer a wide range of dishes to satisfy any food cravings. Among the most unique menu offerings are lemon aiyu jelly, fried fish balls, stinky tofu, Fuzhou Ancestor Pepper Pie, Hometown Barbecue Chicken, Good Friend Cold Noodles, and Jian Ji Papaya Milk.

Exploring the maze of dense alleys in the Shilin Night Market is a unique opportunity to learn about the food and culture of the Taiwanese people. The market is an ideal spot to indulge in some delicious local cuisine and experience the vibrant energy of Taiwan’s bustling night markets.

Discover Taipei’s historical heritage at Liberty Square

Liberty Square is a public plaza in Taipei, also known as Freedom Square, and has played a significant role in Taiwan’s modern democratic history. The square is a hub for public gatherings and is a popular tourist attraction in Taipei. The major points of interest at the park include the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall , National Concert Hall , and the National Theater . The Liberty Square Arch is another popular attraction, a royal historical gate that looks beautiful when illuminated at night. The square hosts various festivals and red-carpet ceremonies and is a must-visit spot for those interested in Taiwan’s history and culture.

Liberty Square

Visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

The National Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is a significant landmark in Taipei, covering an area of 250,000 square meters. Its white marble structure is inspired by Tiantan in Beijing and features blue roofs that reflect the bright sun and sky. The garden is adorned with red flowers, representing the colors of the national flag.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is one of the must-visit tourist spots in Taiwan

The hall is home to the bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek, which symbolically faces the Presidential Office Building and mainland China. The area also includes the National Theater and National Concert Hall, which have hosted world-renowned musicians and playgroups. The surrounding walls are designed with traditional Chinese garden aesthetics and host various events, such as concerts, school band performances, and fairs. The National Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is a historical site that offers a glimpse of Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage.

Enjoy the Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence Park

Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence Park , located in Shilin District, Taipei, was the former official residence of Chiang Kai-shek and Madam Chiang. The park covers 9.28 hectares and is surrounded by the Fushan hills. It features both a Chinese-style inner garden with a stream, rock gardens, and a red-painted Chinese summerhouse, as well as a European-style outer garden with a carpet bed of flowers. The park also has a rose garden with over 4,000 plants of 200 species, Madame Chiang’s favorite spot for leisurely strolls, and various pavilions, including the New Orchid Pavilion and the Ciyun Pavilion.

The CKS Shilin Residence Park has been open to the public since 1996 and has undergone numerous renovations to become a scenic and recreational spot in downtown Taipei. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the gardens and attend various orchid and chrysanthemum exhibitions.

Visit the Longshan Temple

Longshan Temple is a historic temple in Taiwan, built in 1738 during the Qing Dynasty. Though it has undergone several rebuilds due to earthquakes and bombing during WWII, it remains one of the most popular and impressive temples in Taipei. Locals and tourists flock to this temple throughout the day to pray and ask for guidance from the Gods.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

To fully appreciate the temple’s beauty, it’s recommended to visit in the evening when it’s lit up. Plus, the Huaxi Street Night Market is adjacent to the temple, so visitors can enjoy a night out after exploring the temple. Entrance to the temple is free.

See the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall

The Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall was designed by architect Wang Da-hung as a tribute to the founding father of the Republic of China. In addition to being a memorial, the hall serves as an educational and cultural center hosting various events throughout the year. The surrounding park provides a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike. Notably, the hall hosts several major cultural and arts events such as the Golden Horse Awards, Golden Bell Awards, and Culture Awards.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Visit Garden 91 Museum

Garden 91 is a hidden gem for art lovers, located on the top of the Yangmingshan mountain in Taipei. The museum features an extensive collection of sculptures and paintings that belonged to Mr. Lin, a Taiwanese collector and art enthusiast. Despite its impressive collection, Garden 91 is not a well-known tourist attraction, making it a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Overlooking view of Taipei City from Garden 91 Museum

In addition to the museum, Garden 91 also boasts a beautiful garden with stunning views of Taipei City. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the garden while admiring the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The combination of the art collection and the scenic setting makes Garden 91 a unique and memorable destination for anyone looking to experience the culture and natural beauty of Taiwan.

Explore Taroko National Park

Taroko National Park is the most visited of Taiwan’s nine national parks and is arguably the most popular tourist destination on the island’s east coast.

A day trip to Taroko is a favorite among tourists, and the park’s landmark Taroko Gorge is the main attraction. Known as one of Asia’s 7 wonders, the gorge boasts marble cliffs, deep winding tunnels, and a picturesque river that flows through the bottom.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Another beautiful spot in the park is the Eternal Spring Shrine, a classic shrine that serves as a memorial for veterans. It’s definitely worth a stop for its stunning views of the mountains and the never-ending waterfall that graces the landscape. Taroko National Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Taiwan.

See the Shifen Waterfall

Shifen Waterfall is a must-visit destination for those who love nature and its beauty. With its impressive width of 40 meters, it is one of the widest waterfalls on the island. The horseshoe shape and powerful flow of the waterfall earned it the nickname “Little Niagara of Taiwan,” and visitors are often delighted with a bright rainbow on sunny days, hence the second nickname of “Rainbow Pond.” The surrounding forested mountainside is also breathtaking.

Shifen Waterfall

Shifen Waterfall is within walking distance of Shifen Old Street, which is along the Pingxi Branch railroad line. Visitors may also notice interesting holes in the riverbed that have been created by the erosive action of the water, producing potholes that are in abundance in the Dahua Station area.

Explore Jiufen Old Street

Jiufen Old Street is a charming and lively marketplace located in the mountainous region of northeastern Taiwan, within the small town of Jiufen. The marketplace is a popular destination for tourists, and it’s easy to see why. The quaint alleyway is filled with numerous shops and vendors selling a wide variety of goods, from traditional Taiwanese foods to handmade pottery and souvenirs.

Jiufen Old Street

Although it can get quite crowded, with tourists from around the world coming to experience the lively atmosphere and picturesque scenery, the unique blend of culture, history, and food makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Taiwan. In addition to the bustling marketplace, Jiufen is also home to a variety of other tourist attractions, including the stunning Keelung Mountain, the historic Jiufen teahouses, and the Shengping Theater, which has been transformed into a museum.

Relax in Beitou Hot Springs

Beitou Hot Springs is a must-visit destination for tourists who enjoy indulging in thermal hot springs. Located at Xinbeitou station, this area is a hotbed of public and private baths to choose from. The natural hot springs are rich in sulfur and are said to have therapeutic benefits for a range of ailments, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The area also boasts an authentic and popular style of inns and resort hotels, which makes it easy to stay as long as you want. However, it’s best to book ahead of time to ensure availability, as this is a very popular destination.

Hike in Yangmingshan National Park

Yangmingshan National Park is a popular tourist destination located in northern Taipei City, known for its parks, hiking trails, interesting flora and fauna, and hot springs. With an area of 114 square kilometers and ranging in elevation from 200 to 1,200 meters, the park is a Category II protected area by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. It offers subtropical and warm temperate climate zones and a rich Japanese influence, evident in the area’s numerous hot springs and planted trees.

Yangmingshan National Park

The area was once a center for sulfur mining and agriculture, with tea plantations and other crops. Today, the park’s boutique-style agriculture and tourism focus offers visitors Calla lilies at Zhuzihu and beautiful seasonal sights. From flowering seasons in February and March, summer winds and thunder, to autumn maple leaves and misty rainbows, and winter monsoons creating seas of clouds and snow, each season brings its own unique beauty to Yangmingshan National Park.

Explore the Yehliu Geopark

Yehliu Geological Park, located in northern Taiwan, is one of the most unique natural attractions in the world. Its eroded rock formations, sculpted by the forces of seawater, waves, and wind, have made the park a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The soft limestone composition of the rock layers allows for the constant effect of these natural forces, resulting in a surreal and otherworldly landscape that is a must-see.

Yehliu Geopark

Beyond the park’s iconic rock formations, such as the “Queen’s Head,” visitors can enjoy a range of other activities. A short walk beyond the Geopark leads to the top of a cliff, offering a breathtaking 360-degree view of the North Coast and the Pacific Ocean. The park also features an ecology reserve and Taiwan’s first marine park, providing a great opportunity to learn about marine wildlife and conservation efforts. Families can enjoy the Yehliu Ocean World, where they can watch acrobatic dolphin, whale, and seal shows, or take a stroll through a 100-meter transparent undersea tunnel. Whether you’re a nature lover, a marine enthusiast, or just looking for an adventure, Yehliu Geological Park is a must-see destination in Taiwan.

Visit Houli Flower Garden

Houli Flower Garden is a popular tourist destination in Taichung, Central Taiwan . This stunning garden is a must-visit attraction that showcases an extensive variety of flowers, including sunflowers, lavender, and cosmos, amongst others. The garden is an ideal place to relax and escape the bustling city life, offering a serene and picturesque environment that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

The garden spans over 10 hectares and features various flower exhibitions, a butterfly garden, and a windmill, making it a perfect location for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can also take part in fun activities, such as flower picking and tea tasting. The garden is accessible from Taipei as a day trip, or visitors can choose to stay in Taichung and explore other nearby attractions. Houli Flower Garden is a great destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of Taiwan. Check out our post on how to go to Houli Flower Garden from Taipei .

Visit Sun Moon Lake

The Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area is a must-visit destination for tourists in Central Taiwan. This popular spot in Nantou County is the country’s largest lake and attracts millions of visitors each year. The area offers a range of accommodations, but the best place to stay is The Lalu Sun Moon Lake , which provides a breathtaking view of both lakes.

The Lalu Sun Moon Lake

Visitors can enjoy a scenic cruise on the lake or explore the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village by taking a gondola or the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway. There are plenty of other activities available in the area, such as hiking, biking, and hot springs. The lake also serves as a habitat for a variety of species, making it an excellent location for bird watching and nature photography. With its stunning natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, Sun Moon Lake is a destination that visitors to Taiwan should not miss.

Experience Gaomei Wetlands

Gaomei Wetlands is a protected wetland in Qingshui District, Taichung, Taiwan. The area is a popular tourist destination in Central Taiwan, known for its stunning sunsets and picturesque windmills. The wetlands are home to a diverse range of birds and sea creatures that can be observed by visitors during low-tide while walking on the 800-meter boardwalk.

Gaomei Wetlands

At the end of the boardwalk, visitors can experience the wetlands more fully by removing their shoes and walking on the silt. It’s a unique and memorable way to fully immerse oneself in this beautiful and protected area. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking for a scenic spot to take in the sunset, Gaomei Wetlands is a must-visit destination in Taiwan .

Explore Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village

The Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village is a popular outdoor museum located in Yuchi Township, Nantou County. Established in 1986, it spans 62 hectares and features traditional homes and architecture of Taiwanese indigenous tribes, making it one of Central Taiwan’s must-see attractions .

Cherry Blossoms at Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village

In addition to the cultural exhibits, the village also boasts several theme parks, including the European Gardens , Aladdin Plaza , Aboriginal Villages , Amusement Isle , and Ti Ka Er Rainforest . Visitors can enjoy the cherry blossom view from February to March, which makes for a perfect Instagram-worthy photo opportunity.

Lihpao Land is a massive resort park in Taiwan that covers 200 hectares, featuring both land and water theme parks. The park offers a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy, including the five-star Fullon Hotel Lihpao Land , the Chamber of Secrets escape room, the Lihpao Outlet Mall , the Lihpao Road Station , the Lihpao Racing Park , and Sky Dream – Taiwan’s largest Ferris wheel.

Lihpao Land Theme Park

Two must-try experiences at the park are Gravity Max at Discovery World and the Big Dream attraction at Mala Bay.

Gravity Max is a unique and thrilling ride that is the world’s only tilt roller coaster. Riders are suspended at a 90-degree angle before being dropped, twisted, and turned through a series of loops and curves. It’s an exhilarating experience that is not for the faint of heart.

At Mala Bay, visitors can experience the biggest artificial waves in Southeast Asia at the Big Dream attraction. It’s an ideal place to cool off on a hot day, with the waves providing a fun and exciting ride for all ages. Whether you want to catch some waves or just relax by the pool, Mala Bay is a must-visit spot at Lihpao Land.

Where to Eat in Taipei

There are many night markets in Taipei where you can find sumptuous food. The most popular is the Shihlin Night Market . You can also go to Ximending to fill your tummy with good food. One of the best bubble tea has a shop in Ximending. You can also explore Raohe Night Market or if you stay near Taipei 101, you can go to Linjiang Street Night Market. Lots of good food there, too!

Raohe Night Market

Yong Kang Beef Noodle

One of the reasons why people visit other countries is because of the food, and this one you surely shouldn’t miss. Beef Noodle is the national dish of Taiwan and this family restaurant in the Da’an District is the perfect place to find this sensational dish. This will definitely give you a great taste of their local food. This restaurant has a Bib Gourmand rating by Michelin.

Address: No. 17號, Lane 31, Section 2, Jinshan South Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan

Beef Noodle

Golden Formosa

The Golden Formosa is a popular Taiwanese restaurant in Taipei’s Shilin District. It started in the 1960s and is included in Taipei’s Michelin Guidebook. It received a 1-star rating and it’s definitely worth a stop.

Golden Formosa

Must-try is their signature twice-cooked deep-fried pork ribs. You can also try their juicy Hainanese chicken if you are eating with a group. As for dessert, the deep-fried taro balls are a must-have!

Golden Formosa's Deep-fried Pork Ribs

Address: No. 101號, Tianmu East Road, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 11:30 – 14:30 and 17:30 – 21:30

Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung is another popular Taiwanese restaurant with a number of branches across Taiwan. It is well-known for its different varieties of xiaolongbao both savory and sweet. It started in Taipei in 1972 and has now branches in more than 10 countries including the USA, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines. It received a Bib Gourmand rating in the Taipei edition of the Michelin Guide.

Din Tai Fung's Pork Xiaolongbao

Must-try dishes:

  • Pork Xiaolongbao NTD110 for 5pcs
  • Spicy Shrimp and Pork Wontons NTD180 for 8pcs
  • Chocolate Xiaolongbao NTD175 for 5pcs

Din Tai Fung's Chocolate Xiaolongbao

Bar 88 at Taipei 101

If you visit Taipei 101 Observatory, you should drop by Bar 88 , a must-try cafe in Taipei. You can order a glass of coffee or bubble tea served with cotton candy and enjoy a stunning view of the city at the same time.

Bar 88 at Taipei 101

CAMA Coffee Roasters

If you love coffee, I highly recommend visiting CAMA Coffee Roasters in Taipei’s Yangmingshan National Park. Aside from good coffee, you can also enjoy the relaxing ambiance of the cafe. They serve different types of coffee from around the world – Africa, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Taiwan local coffee, and more!

They have branches across Taiwan but this shop in Yangmingshan is a must-visit. It’s an old Japanese house converted into a cafe.

CAMA Coffee Roasters

Order a set meal at Shan Lan Cafe at Landis Resort Yangmingshan and enjoy an impressive view of the Yangmingshan Mountains. During spring, you can have a spectacular view of cherry blossoms just outside the restaurant. It’s perfect for that IG-worthy shot.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Sample TAIWAN Itinerary

Day 1 Taiwan Itinerary

  • Arrival in Taipei early morning
  • Start your day by visiting Taipei 101, the iconic landmark of Taipei city. Take a ride to the top of the tower to enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
  • Next, head to Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, a symbolic monument of Taiwan’s democracy and a beautiful architecture surrounded by lush gardens.
  • In the afternoon, visit the National Palace Museum, which houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.
  • In the evening, take a stroll through the bustling Shilin Night Market to experience the vibrant local street food culture.

Day 2  Taiwan Itinerary

  • Start your day early by taking a train to the stunning Sun Moon Lake, a beautiful natural lake in the center of Taiwan. Take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
  • Take a gondola and visit the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, a theme park that showcases Taiwan’s indigenous culture and history.
  • In the afternoon, take a train to Taichung and visit the Houli Flower Farm
  • Head back to Taipei and visit the trendy Ximending district, which is known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping.

Day 3  Taiwan Itinerary

  • Start your day by taking a trip to the historic town of Jiufen, located in the mountains east of Taipei. This charming town is known for its narrow streets, tea houses, and stunning views of the ocean. While in Jiufen, you can also visit the nearby Shifen Waterfall and the Shifen Old Street, where you can release sky lanterns.
  • Then, explore Jiufen Old Street and head back to Taipei.
  • Explore Raohe Night Market to enjoy some delicious street food and do some shopping or take a rest.

Day 4 Taiwan Itinerary

  • Early morning hike to hike Elephant Mountain ’s trail
  • Go shopping
  • Check-out at the hotel
  • Visit Longshan Temple and go on a food trip to Din Tai Fung
  • Head to the airport / Fly back home

Where to Stay in Taipei

Taipei is a bustling city with a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. Here are a few suggestions on where to stay in Taipei :

  • citizenM Taipei North Gate
  • Cho Hotel 3
  • Hotel Papa Whale
  • Meander Taipei Hostel – Ximending – budget
  • Backpackers Hostel Ximen – budget
  • Kimpton Da An Hotel – Luxury
  • Swiio Hotel Daan
  • Daan Wow Happy
  • Eastin-Taipei Hotel – budget
  • Hotel Metropolitan Premier Taipei – Luxury
  • DoubleTree By Hilton Taipei Zhongshan
  • Cityinn Hotel Plus Fuxing N.Rd. Branch
  • Taipei Discover Hostel – budget
  • Caesar Metro Taipei
  • Wholesome Hotel
  • Old Door Hostel – budget
  • Meeting Mates 寓見青旅 – budget
  • Mandarin Oriental Taipei
  • Les Suites Ching Cheng Hotel
  • Brother Hotel
  • NK Hostel – budget
  • Hostel Jiizu – budget

No matter where you stay in Taipei, it’s a good idea to look for accommodations near a subway station or other public transportation options. This will make it easier to get around the city and explore all that it has to offer.

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Top Things To See In Taiwan

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Taiwan is a relatively large island, stretching some 250 miles from top to bottom. It’s unfortunate that most of the island’s visitors never venture past the glamour of Taipei. When you venture out of the capital you will experience some of the beauty that the country has to offer. Taiwan has a diverse range of attractions that range from stunning mountain scapes to the ever-popular night markets. There is really something for everyone! Be sure to check out this list of the top tourist attractions in Taiwan before you plan your next trip.

Top Tourist Attractions In Taiwan

Jiufen old street (九份老街).

Visit Jiufen Old Street Taiwan

From its beaches, the surrounding mountains, to the famed the Golden Waterfall, Jiufen has it all! I made the mistake of overlooking Jiufen for far too long. There is a lot to do in Jiufen and the surrounding Ruifang District and I got to experience it during my trip earlier this year. Of all the things to see and do, the highlight was definitely Jiufen Old Street.

You will need to hike up and down a great number of stairs during your exploration of the area, so a sturdy pair of shoes are recommended. The unique shops lining the streets provide plenty of eye-candy, so don’t worry about getting bored. Be sure to check out the scrumptious local food sold in shops along the street. Ah Gan Taro Balls (阿柑姨芋圓) is one of my favorite shops in the area. They sell a delicious taro desert and have a seating area that provides sweeping views of the surrounding area. Jiufen Old Street is also a great place to find souvenirs for friends and family back home!

Taipei to Jiufen:

  • The easiest way to get travel from Taipei to Jiufen is to take the bus. You can catch bus 1062 from the Zhongxiao Fuxing intersection and head directly to Jiufen Old Street. The trip will take 60 – 70 minutes depending on the traffic and weather conditions. The current cost for the journey is 98 NTD, roughly $3.
  • Alternatively, you could take a train from Taipei to Ruifang station and then catch public bus 788 to Jiufen. The time and cost are essentially the same, so I’d stick to the direct bus unless you plan to do some sightseeing around Ruifang.

Alishan Scenic Area (阿里山)

Top Tourist Attractions In Taiwan

If you are looking for an extra-special experience try heading to Ali Mountain. Alishan is one of the most famous mountains in Taiwan, with countless hikers making the trip each year. If you want a true Taiwanese experience you will need to wake up in the early hours of the morning to catch the sunrise from the peak. It is a truly breathtaking experience!

Getting to Alishan has become slightly more difficult. The railway in this area was damaged by a recent typhoon and has not been fully repaired. Due to the damage, we will need to make adjustments.

Please check the Taiwan Railway Website which has a great FAQ for first-time visitors.

Taipei To Chiayi:

  • High-Speed Rail – 1h 25m
  • Express Train – 2h 30m

Chiayi to Alishan:

  • Chiayi Station — Fenqihu Station by Rail
  • Fenqihu Station — Alishan Station by Bus
  • Chiayi Station — Alishan Station by Bus

I would normally recommend the most direct route. However, many visitors enjoy taking the train due to the good views and railway history experienced on this route.

Anping Fort (安平古堡)

Anping Fort - Tainan Taiwan

Anping Fort is likely to be the highlight of your trip to Tainan. This fort, originally called Fort Zeelandia, was built by the Dutch in the early part of the 1600’s. A great deal of the fort was destroyed during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, but it has since been restored. The buildings at Anping offer a historical look at how things would have looked roughly 400-years ago. There is a great deal of history presented throughout the complex. Visitors will have the chance to read and learn about the history of Tainan and the role the city played in shaping Taiwan.

One of my favorite travel photos is of an old pagoda located in the Anping Fort complex. It has been my Instagram profile photo for quite some time now, and I love its striking architecture!

From Taipei:

  • Take the HSR from Taipei to Tainan Station.
  • The ride is just under two hours and HSR ticket information can be found online . You will be happy to discover that the High Speed Rail has an English-friendly website!

From Tainan HSR Station to Anping Fort:

  • If you’re in a hurry a taxi can quickly cover the distance for around $12-15
  • Taking the bus is an option if you want to save money. Bus 2 can take you to Anping Fort in around 40 minutes but will take 40 minutes + additional time waiting for it to arrive.

Sun Moon Lake (日月潭)

Visit Sun Moon Lake Nantou Taiwan

Sun Moon Lake is one of the most picturesque destinations in Taiwan. It is located in Nantou County, in the direct center of Taiwan. Nantou County is a quiet part of Taiwan that offers visitors serene mountain views and is great for those looking to relax. Sun Moon Lake is one of the must-visit destinations in Taiwan. Waking up in a lakefront hotel is one of the best experiences on the island , and must be experienced at least once!

Taipei to Sun Moon Lake:

  • Bus 1833 costs 470nt as of 2017. This bus departs from the Taipei Bus Station and takes 4.5 hours to arrive. It will take you directly to Sun Moon Lake with no transfers required. It is operated by  Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport  (website in Chinese) so just look for their signs when you arrive at Taipei Station.
  • Another option would be to take the High-Speed Rail to Taichung Station. From Taichung, you will need to transfer to a bus to Sun Moon Lake.

Kenting National Park (墾丁國家公園)

Moon festival in Taiwan

Pintung is a large county located in the southernmost part of Taiwan. It is a popular destination for those looking those looking to escape the big city in search of good weather and natural beauty. Pingtung has a number of attractions ranging from mountains suited for hiking and camping to beach resorts offering surfing and scuba diving excursions.

Kenting is the top destination in Pingtung for beachgoers due to its pristine sandy beaches, and mild, sunny climate. Kenting also serves as Taiwan’s unofficial spring break destination. My last visit to Kenting was in the Autumn , and the water was perfect for swimming and surfing. The combination of pleasant weather and affordable accommodation make it an excellent choice for backpackers looking to explore Taiwan.

  • Take the High-Speed Rail to Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung.
  • From Kaohsiung take bus 9188 or 9189 to Kenting.

Taipei’s Architecture

Taipei 101 best things to do in taipei

I think there are a number of architecturally significant places to visit, rather than the Taipei 101 alone. Taipei is considered by many to be rather bland when it comes to architectural design. At first glance, the blocky rows of gray and brown buildings may signal that this is true. However, there are a few gems that help to break the monotony of Taipei’s cityscape. While there are many unique buildings to discover, my favorite buildings in Taipei are listed below.

  • recognition as the worlds tallest green building
  • its post-modern design
  • a structural design which allows the 101 to withstand powerful typhoons
  • an observation deck (Indoor 88th + 89th floor / Outdoor 91st floor) Tickets cost 500 NTD
  • the worlds highest Starbucks. Located on the 35th floor. Reservations need to be made so call ahead! Starbucks Taipei 101 Reservations (+886) 2 8101 0701
  • A massive temple located in the heart of Taipei.
  • This 300-year-old temple gives off an older and more traditional feel. The night market is also great!
  • This is great if you’re a fan of history! The number of artifacts to be found at the national palace museum is absolutely astounding! As the name might suggest, the museum was constructed to resemble a traditional Chinese palace.

Take the MRT Orange Line to XingTian Temple Station. Take either exit 4 or 2. Walk north to the intersection and you will see the temple on the right-hand side of the street.

Take the MRT Blue Line to LongShan Station. Head to exit 1 and then walk north to the temple. You can’t miss it!

Take the MRT Red line north to Shilin Station. From here you take a number of buses to the National Palace Museum.

Bus 255 / 204 / 815 can all go from Shilin Station to the National Palace Museum in under 15 minutes.

Nightmarkets

best night markets in Taiwan

Nightmarkets can be found all over Taiwan – regardless of whether you visit a big or small city. While each night market will provide a similar experience, there are two that stand out.

  • Shilin Night Market (Taipei) 士林夜市
  • Huayuan Night Market (Tainan) 花園夜市

These night markets are located on opposite ends of the island, Taipei in the north and Tainan in the south. They are the biggest, and arguably most impressive, in Taiwan. First-time visitors should not miss this chance to experience the vibrant flavor and exotic tastes that can be found in Taiwan .

Do note that Huayuan Night Market is only open on selected days of the week. You can experience the great sights and flavors on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Be sure to plan your trip accordingly!

Night Markets in Taipei are open 7-days a week.

Taroko Gorge National Park (太魯閣國家公園)

how to get to Taroko Gorge National park - Hualien Taiwan

No list of top tourist attractions in Taiwan would be complete without mention of Taiwan’s natural wonder. Taroko Gorge stretches a spectacular 19km and is located along the west coast, just north of Hualian. It is a wonderful spot for hiking, trekking, and river rafting, as well as other outdoor activities. There are a number of tour agencies offering trips and activities in the area. Of course, you could always admire the natural beauty on your own if you’re not up for that. Most people will enjoy staying in Hualien and exploring the city . Try to find a hotel in the XinCheng station area if you want to be closer to Taroko.

If, and when the island gains international acceptance, Taroko will be undoubtedly Taiwan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Take the train north from Hualien to Xincheng Taroko Station.

From the station, you will have a short walk to the nearby bus station. Take bus 1141 or 302 – both will take you to Taroko National Park.

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Taiwan Obsessed

30 Reasons to Visit Taiwan ASAP

A dragon lantern above a street at night, header image for an article about reasons to visit Taiwan

Is Taiwan worth visiting? Yes! Taiwan has long been a hidden gem in Asia. Before COVID, however, that was starting to change. The country surpassed 10 million visitors in 2015 and reached nearly 12 million by 2019.

While this may be just a third of what Japan received in a year, it’s an impressive feat considering Taiwan is only one-tenth the size of Japan!

Taiwan’s tourism industry has yet to fully recover from COVID. In fact, the country is still receiving less than half the tourists that it did before. So now, more than ever before, is the time to find out if you need a visa , decide which month to visit , buy your travel insurance , book your flight , and visit Taiwan!

If you’ve been to Taiwan or live there, then you already get it. You may even wish I weren’t publishing this article, because you don’t want too many others to know. But the secret is already out! So, here are my 30 reasons to visit Taiwan as soon as possible!  

Table of Contents

Taiwan is visually stunning.

Looking up the coast at a beach and the Qingshui Cliffs in Hualien

There is no possibility of disagreement here. Taiwan is simply gorgeous.

She’s so beautiful that, the story goes, Portuguese sailors dubbed her Ilha Formosa or “Beautiful Island” when they first laid eyes upon her. The name Formosa stuck for centuries and is still sometimes used today. For example, Taiwan’s most iconic animal is called the Formosan black bear!

Taiwan is a tropical island shaped by volcanoes and the collision of tectonic plates, with towering peaks, dramatic valleys, thick jungles, and sweeping beaches.

The country’s top natural attractions are Taroko Gorge , Sun Moon Lake , and Alishan National Forest Recreation Area . But for those willing to go the extra mile, there are endless others to explore.

Taiwanese food is really, really good.

Many sticks of stinky tofu on a tray wrapped with aluminum foil

Taiwan’s food is a tourist attraction in itself.

Picture this medley: hearty aboriginal foods, traditional cuisine imported from Fujian province (where most Taiwanese trace their ancestry to), regional Chinese dishes brought over later from other provinces in China, authentic Japanese food after 50 years of Japanese colonization, and modern Taiwanese innovations fueled by a thriving night market and street food scene.

In fact, by tourist numbers, Taipei’s night markets collectively are the city’s most popular tourist attraction. Sampling foods on the street is a way of life in Taiwan. No matter where you go, no matter what time (see these 24-hour restaurants ), there’s always something cooking, and it always smells good.

Taiwanese people have a reputation for hospitality.

Two Taiwanese aboriginal women in costumes and smiling

Taiwanese people are famously welcoming. They simply love foreigners and go out of their way to make tourists feel welcome.

I’ve heard so many stories of people losing a wallet, passport, or other valuable item, only to later find that an unnamed stranger had returned it. Or that a local person went totally out of their way to make sure a visitor found the way.

These stories prove time and time again that Taiwan is one of the friendliest countries in the world. It’s no wonder the Taiwan Tourism Bureau has dubbed Taiwan the “Heart of Asia”.

It is extremely safe.

A busy night market in Kaohsiung, with vendors and shoppers along the road ordering food.

Taiwan also has a reputation for being unusually safe. No matter what time of day or night, there’s no neighborhood or area in Taipei ( see my Taipei city guide ) or other major cities that is unsafe to stroll around, even on your own.

Solo female travelers repeatedly report feeling totally safe in Taiwan, no matter where they go. Here’s one example and another , but there are so many more if you do a quick search.

The stats also back it up. The 2023 Numbeo Safety Index ranked Taiwan the 3 rd safest country in the world, while RankingRoyals rated Taipei as the 4 th safest city in the world.   

It is LGBTQ+ friendly.

An LGBT protest in Taipei, with people carrying a Taiwan flag with rainbow colors and old city gate in background

Taiwan is one of, if not the most LGBTQ+ friendly country in Asia. And I say this as a member of the LGBTQ+ community who has lived in Taiwan for over a decade.

In fact, so far, Taiwan is the ONLY country in Asia that has legalized same-sex marriage. This ground-breaking change came in 2019, after several major protests in its favor. These saw hundreds of thousands of Taiwan residents take to the streets. The law was passed under Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan’s first female and unmarried president.

Taiwan also has an openly transgender, high-profile member of government, Minister of Digital Affairs Audrey Tang.

Every year on the weekend closest to Halloween, Taiwan hosts the largest Pride Parade in Asia. The Red House Theater in Ximending is the focal point of the city’s gay scene, with its large collection of LGBTQ+ bar patios and businesses. There’s even an LGBT walking tour of Ximending .

LGBTQ+ visitors can feel safe to be themselves when traveling around Taiwan and safely stay in any accommodation.

It is a vibrant democracy.

Exterior of the red and white Presidential Palace in Taipei

Given the last point, it will come as no major surprise that Taiwan is considered a beacon of democracy in Asia. In the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2022 Democracy Index , Taiwan took the 10 th spot globally.

You can compare that to some of its neighbors: China (156 th spot), the Philippines (52 nd spot), or South Korea (24 th spot).

What does this mean for everyone? Free and fair elections, high voter turnout, freedom of press, low levels of corruption, and a plethora of civil society organizations. For the casual visitor, you can be proud of your decision to spend your tourist dollars in this country.

You can visit the Presidential Palace (see image above) on one of these free walking tours of Taipei .

It has amazing beaches.

A golden sand beach in Kenting with beach umbrellas

Taiwan tourism ads usually focus on Taiwanese people, culture, food, and mountains. It’s a shame that they often leave out the country’s plethora of postcard-worthy beaches!

Taiwan’s beaches are as varied as they are numerous. You can find stunning white sand, golden sand, or black sand beaches, not to mention unbelievably gorgeous pebble beaches.

Here’s my guide to the prettiest beaches in Taiwan . Some of the best ones can be found in Kenting National Park in Pingtung county and on the offshire islands.

There isn’t as much of a beach culture in Taiwan as, say, the Philippines or Thailand. But this means that you can easily find beaches in Taiwan with few to no people on them! 

The offshore islands are incredible.

Close up of white and red canoes made by the Tao tribe on Orchid Island with water and small rocky islands in background

Speaking of beaches, you’ll find some of the best ones on Taiwan’s offshore islands , especially the Penghu archipelago.

Try Xiaoliuqiu for snorkelling with giant sea turtles, Green Island for scuba diving and salt water hot springs, Orchid Island to meet Taiwan’s most isolated aboriginal tribe, or Kinmen for phosphorescence in the sea.

Paying a visit to any of these islands is like a trip within a trip. Few visitors make time in their Taiwan itinerary for them. But those who do often find that it is the highlight of their Taiwan visit.

It has over 100 hot springs.

Hot spring pools along a river with colorful cliffs backing them

One of Taiwan’s biggest draws is its abundance of thermal hot springs. Because the country lies at the meeting point of tectonic plates, it is geologically active. It even has a few active volcanoes, one of which is partially in Taipei City (the Datun Volcanic Group in Yangmingshan National Park ).

There are at least 100 major hot springs in Taiwan and many more smaller ones. Facilities range from ultra-luxurious spas to traditional bathhouses to wild hot springs only reached via long hikes in nature.

Some of the most famous hot spring villages in Taiwan include Beitou , Wulai , Jiaoxi , Tai’an , Guguan, Ruisui, Baolai, and Zhiben. 

It is a paradise for hikers.

A group of hikers sitting on the top of a cliff

Do you love hiking? Then you’ll love Taiwan.

Taiwan is unusually vertical for an island. In fact, there are more than 268 mountains above 3000 meters (9800 feet) in Taiwan. High mountains take up 2/3 rds of the island!

These include mighty Yushan (Jade Mountain), which is 176 meters taller than Mount Fuji in Japan. Some sources even call Taiwan the most mountainous island in the world.

This equates to a whole lot of awesome hikes! Even Taipei City is replete with hiking opportunities , many of which feature views of the city’s most famous landmark, Taipei 101 . Taipei’s best hikes range from quick and easy jaunts like Elephant Mountain , for the classic postcard view of the city, to multi-hour treks to waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanic fumaroles.

Casual hikers will be spoiled for choices around the island. More often than not, these hikes are accessible by public transportation.

For serious hikers, the list of 100 Peaks of Taiwan should keep you busy for a while. Often these need permits and advance reservations, so some advance planning will be necessary.

You can see snow in a tropical country.

Nick Kembel standing on a snowy mountain peak in Taiwan in full winter gear

With the Tropic of Cancer running right through it, Taiwan is considered subtropical in the north and tropical in the south. It may come as a surprise, then, that you can even see snow there! In fact, the possibility of seeing the fluffy white stuff attracts thousands of travelers every winter, mostly from other Asian countries where there is no snow.

To see snow in Taiwan, you’ll need to visit in the coldest months, January or February. What’s more, you’ll need to make your way to the high mountains, which is not so easy to do.

Hehuanshan (which you can drive to on a tour like this ), Taipingshan , Snow Mountain, and Jade Mountain are reliable spots, though the latter two require permits and overnight hikes.

On a few very rare occasions, it has even snowed in the mountains around Taipei City. This happened once in 2016 and again in 2018 . This caused hysteria, with excited locals driving up to see and touch snow for the first time in their lives.

The adventure activities are endless.

A Taiwanese woman jumping off a cliff into a pool of turquoise water, with a group of river tracers at the back of the pool

High mountain hiking is just the beginning when it comes to adventure activities in Taiwan. Here are just a few other popular ones.

  • Cycling , including the KOM challenge , considered one of the most difficult bike races in the world! Cycling around the island or down the west coast are also considered rites of passage in Taiwan.
  • Scuba diving and snorkelling : The best spots include Xiaoliuqiu, Penghu, Green Island, Orchid Island, Kenting, and Longdong.
  • River tracing : Also called river trekking, this involves walking up rivers, jumping in pools, sliding down rock slides, and so on. Try it in Yilan , Hualien , or Taitung .
  • Paragliding : You can do this in Hualien or Puli .
  • Hot air balloon riding : There is a major annual hot air balloon festivals in Luye called the Taitung International Hot Air Baloon Festival.
  • White water rafting : Xiuguluan River in Hualien is the go-to place for white water rafting in Taiwan, but you can also go tubing in Yilan .
  • ATVing : Ride an ATV on the beach in Yilan or Hualien .
  • Cliff diving and rock climbing : Longdong in northern Taiwan features both of these activities.
  • Windsurfing : If interested, head directly to Penghu, especially in winter when the winds pick up.
  • Surfing : Try Wai’ao beach in the north or Dulan in the south.

Its temples are a kaleidoscope of colors.

Close up of statues made of ceramic tiles on the roof of a temple in Tainan

Most of Taiwan’s temple’s belong to the Southern Chinese style of Qing Dynasty architecture, also called Hokkien (Minan) style, from Fujian province.

This temple style is characterized by colorful and ornate decorations, including swallowtail roofs and cut porcelain carvings. They are incense-filled places of active worship, free for all to visit, and subtle photography is permitted.  

Visit any temple in Taiwan and you can see locals praying or even try out some of their unique temple customs.

These temples often combine Taoist, Buddhist, Confucian, and folk religious elements. However, Taiwan also has specifically Confucian temples (in fact, the descendants of Confucius himself live in Taiwan!) and Buddhist monasteries (the most famous is Fo Guang Shan in Kaohsiung ).

See my guides to the best temples in Tainan and temples in Taipei .

It has excellent public transportation.

The inside doors of an MRT in Taipei, with cat stickers on the walls

Taiwan is a poster child for excellent public transportation. This makes living in or getting around the country a breeze.

From the moment you arrive, it’s super easy to get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei or to Ximending .

Taipei’s MRT system is considered one of the best of the world, while Taoyuan , Taichung , and Kaohsiung have growing systems of their own. The High Speed Rail (HSR) connects Taipei in the north to Zuoying (Kaohsiung) in the south in a mere two hours, while regular (TRC) trains do a full loop around the country.

The ultra-handy EasyCard allows you to swipe in and out from almost all public transportation in the country (with the exception of express TRA trains and the HSR). These cards can even be used for taxis, some ferries, convenience stores, and YouBikes .

Even getting to Taiwan is a breeze, with more budget airlines flying to Taiwan than ever before!

It is clean.

A young woman with pink hair walking down a clear tourist street with red lanterns decorations

Taiwan industrialized rapidly, leading to it being called one of the four “Asian Tigers”. However, this also resulted in a sudden explosion of pollution and trash. At one point, things got so bad that Taiwan was even dubbed “Garbage Island” .

Taiwan has come so far since then. With a lot of light industry leaving the country (remember “Made in Taiwan” products?), the introduction of the MRT and other public transportation networks, the growing popularity of electric scooters, and other government initiatives, Taiwan has cleaned up a lot.

In fact, Taiwan has the world’s second highest recycling rate , after Germany. Taiwanese garbage trucks, famous for playing Beethoven’s Für Elise as they approach, ply every neighborhood in the country twice per day. Generally speaking, Taiwanese people take pride in their neighborhoods, keeping the streets around their homes tidy.

It has abundant wildlife.

Two young kids snorkeling with a giant sea turtle and one kid is pointing her hand at it

Taiwan has a surprisingly wealthy abundance of wildlife. Mammals on the island include black bears, wild boars, flying squirrels, pangolins, leopard cats, sika deer, and more.

You’re more likely to see some of Taiwan’s 100+ reptile and amphibians species or 500+ birds. These include the rare black-faced spoonbill and the Chinese crested tern, once thought to be extinct.

Another amazing wildlife viewing opportunity is snorkelling with giant sea turtles on Xiaoliuqiu , a small island with nearly 1000 of them. Yet another is the annual arrival of around 1 million purple crow butterflies in Maolin, Kaohsiung.

Off the coast, Taiwan’s waters have around 30 species of dolphin and whale – that’s one-third of the total types in the world! You can see both on boat tours like this or this .

You can see cherry blossoms.

A large round temple visible behind some cherry blossoms

Move over, Japan and South Korea. Taiwan also has some of the best cherry blossom viewing opportunities in the world!

Taiwan’s cherry blossom season runs from January to April, with the peak months being February and March. Generally speaking, it starts in the north and at lower altitudes, with many great spots in and around Taipei.

The sakura then move south and to higher altitudes. Major hot spots are in the mountains, including Wuling Farm, Qingjing Farm, and Alishan. The exact times vary every year (see my Taiwan cherry blossom report for the best estimates).

But cherry blossom madness is real, so you’ll need a bit of luck and careful planning.

There is flower viewing throughout the year.

A hill covered in orange tiger lilies with farms and mountains in background

Cherry blossoms are just the tip of the iceberg. Flower lovers can enjoy many other flower-viewing opportunities throughout the year in Taiwan.

Some highlights on the annual calendar include lavender (January to February), calla lilies (March to April), tung blossoms (April to May), hydrangeas (May to June), tiger lilies (July to August), and autumn foliage season (November to December).

There are also specific festivals dedicated to roses, tulips, chrysanthemums, and more. Zhongshe Flower Market in Taichung has flower viewing year-round, while the Taichung International Flower Carpet Festival in November and December draws big crowds.

It is kid friendly.

Two kids looking out a wooden train window in Alishan holding their stuffies

Taiwan is one of the kid-friendliest destinations in Asia. Some contributing factors include its reputation for safety, great public transportation, helpful locals, and plethora of family friendly activities.

Children under 6 ride most public transportation for free in Taiwan. My kids absolutely love riding he MRT and HSR! They also typically enjoy big discounts at attractions, while kids under 2 are often free.

Fun activities for kids include Taiwan’s many amusement parks , including the Children’s Amusement Park in Taipei, museums, aquariums, zoos, leisure farms, gondolas, snorkeling, river tracing, and so much more!  

It has ancient traditions with modern comforts.

A Taiwanese man placing a Taiwanese opera crown on Nick Kembel's head with his face painted black and white

Taiwan is often described as a repository of Chinese culture. This is because many ancient Chinese traditions that were nearly wiped out when the communists won the Civil War were brought over to Taiwan and survive there to this day.

Some ancient Chinese traditions you can observe or participate in while in Taiwan include traditional arts, music, opera, puppetry, religious carnivals and parades, temple customs, fortune telling, knife massage, TCM (traditional Chinese medicine), acupuncture, Tai Chi and Qigong, and the list goes on.

At the same time, Taiwan has all the comforts of a modern and efficient society. These include phenomenal public transportation, convenience stores at every corner, smart card payments, comprehensive food delivery networks – you get the point!

Taiwan also has a burgeoning modern arts scene. Kaohsiung is the country’s street art capital, where most of it is legal. There are also numerous contemporary art museums, festivals, and craft markets throughout the year.

It’s a mishmash of cultures.

A stone gate and Japanese shrine on of a rooftop

While several East Asian countries are known for their homogenous cultures, Taiwan is surprisingly mixed.

The original inhabitants of Taiwan are the Taiwanese aboriginals, with 16 officially recognized tribes today. They make up 2.3% of the population, but many Taiwanese have some aboriginal blood. Around 70% of Taiwanese trace their ancestry to Fujian province in China, while another 15% are Hakka, and 10% come from other parts of China.

Historically, the Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, and British all left marks on Taiwan. But the biggest influence came from the Japanese, who colonized Taiwan for 50 years (1895 to 1945). Today, you can find Japanese food, architecture, and other cultural traits across the island. Some Japanese words have entered the Taiwanese language and are still used today.

Last but not least, Taiwan is home to nearly a million foreign residents, or 3.5% of the total population. The majority of them are from Southeast Asia (there’s even a Little Indonesia in Taipei and Burma Street in New Taipei ), with smaller numbers from Japan, USA, South Korea, India, and more.

It is casual and open-minded.

Three Taiwanese girls dressed like nurses with colorful hair

Taiwanese are known for their open-mindedness and acceptance of different cultures and customs. This is evident in the country’s religious tolerance, LGBTQ+ rights, freedom of press, and so on.

In terms of dress code, you can wear pretty much whatever you want. In summer, sandals, shorts, and tank tops are fine for men, while local women can be seen sporting the shortest of shorts, mini skirts, or belly shirts. There is no culture of cat-calling in Taiwan. One rule to stick to, though, is to keep your shirt and shoes on unless at the beach, and going topless at the beach is not normal.

Even while working, Taiwanese professionals can get away with slightly more casual attire than in other East Asian countries. Teaching English in Taiwan, I could even wear shorts and a tank top, though that is not the case with every school.

Taiwan has no open liquor laws, meaning you can buy a cold beer at 7-Eleven and drink it anywhere you want. Traffic laws are often lax and loosely followed, too (not exactly a good thing, so be careful on the roads!)

There are countless festivals and events.

Many lanterns going up into a black sky with one especially big one and each one has a small fire inside

In Taiwan, the calendar is dotted with fun events and festivals. Traditional ones tend to follow the lunar calendar, so their exact dates change every year, while others are tied to the Gregorian (solar) calendar.

The big three annual traditional festivals are Lunar New Year, Dragon Boat Festival, and Mid-Autumn (Moon) Festival. Others include Lantern Festival , Ghost Month, Tomb Sweeping Festival, the Matsu Pilgrimage, aboriginal harvest festivals, and local temple carnivals and parades.

Modern events include flower viewing festivals, music festivals (several of these fall in April every day), an increasingly popular Christmas festival, New Year’s Eve fireworks and other fireworks festivals, hot air balloon festivals, and sand castle festivals.

It has the world’s best oolong tea.

Some instruments, pot, kettle on a table in a traditional Taiwanese teahouse

While bubble tea (invented in Taiwan!) gets most of the attention nowadays, did you know the country also produces some of the highest quality oolong tea?

After tea was brought over from China, it was found to grow particularly well in Taiwan’s misty mountains. Taiwanese tea farmers noticed that they higher they grew the tea, the more delicious it tasted.

Today, artisanal Taiwanese oolong teas are prized around the world. Some of the best include Alishan High Mountain tea, Oriental Beauty, Baozhong, Tieguanyin, Dong Ding, and Dayuling. They are comparatively expensive due to their high demand and low volume. You can buy these teas or experience gongfu tea ceremony at traditional teahouses in Taipei.

It is possible to visit many picturesque tea farms in Taiwan, especially in Pinglin (New Taipei City), Shizhao (Alishan region in Chiayi), Lugu ( Nantou ), and Luye (Taitung). In Shizhao, you can even spend the night on a tea farm.

Here’s my guide to tea in Taiwan .

It is vegetarian and vegan friendly.

A vegetarian food stall with Buddhist swastika and 素 (vegetarian) character

Vegetarians and vegans will be in luck when visiting Taiwan. Vegetarian culture is widespread, with many people (especially elderly and Buddhists) abstaining from meat on certain days or all the time.

Taipei alone has more than 300 vegetarian and vegan restaurants listed on Happy Cow . Every neighborhood has at least one. Here are my 20 favorite vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Taipei and 90+ vegetarian food stalls in night markets across Taiwan.

To help vegetarians and vegans get by in Taiwan, I wrote this Taiwan vegan and vegetarian food guid e.

Its convenience stores are something else.

Exterior of a 7-Eleven in Ximending Taipei with some cute cartoon characters on it

You’ll probably visit 7-Eleven (and FamilyMart, Hi-Life, Simple Mart, OK Mart) more times during your Taiwan trip than you could imagine. These little miracle stores seem to have everything.

Cold drinks, take-away meals, delivery and recycling services, tickets for events and public transportation, made-to-order coffees and teas, office and household supplies, paying bills – there’s hardly any service or thing that you can’t buy at them.

These stores are super air-conditioned (a savior in summer) and often have cozy seating areas and restrooms. The ding-dong sound they make when you walk in the door is part of the familiar soundtrack of Taiwan.

It has super-fast WiFi.

Two women checking a smartphone on the street in Taiwan

Taiwan has long been known for having crazy fast Internet. In fact, Taiwan even boasted the world’s fastest Internet as recently as 2022 .

Since then, several other countries have caught up with and surpassed Taiwan , but the fact remains that you can still expect very fast Internet in Taiwan.

Taiwan is also extremely well connected. As a relatively compact nation, you’ll have Internet access almost everywhere you go. The only exceptions will be some high mountain hikes and those super long tunnels on the train.

Visitors can also enjoy free WiFi in many public places, including MRT stations, Taipei 101, and many popular attractions. Cafes, restaurants, Taoyuan International Airport, and even airport buses also have it.

The best way to take advantage of Taiwan’s fast Internet speeds is by getting a local SIM card or eSIM in Taiwan .

You’ll never forget riding a scooter in Taiwan.

Nick Kembel riding a scooter beside a traditional house in Penghu Taiwan

Taiwan is a nation of scooters. Based on my own research, there are approximately 14 million scooters in Taiwan, which equates to 1 scooter for every 1.7 people!

One of my personal favorite things to do in Taiwan is to ride a scooter around. I mostly avoid riding in the biggest cities, where the traffic can be overwhelming. But the East Coast and any of the offshore islands are blissful. In fact, I wouldn’t even recommend visiting some of these islands if you can’t drive a scooter there.

In order to rent a scooter (or an electric Gogoro!) in Taiwan, you’ll need to have a Taiwanese motorcycle license or an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). The latter can only be issued in your home country. Some rental shops may also ask to see motorcycle endorsement on your home country license, but other will not.

Tourist numbers are still way down.

View from above of a tree covering the ruins of a building at Anping Treehouse

Circling back to what I said in the introduction, Taiwan’s tourism industry still has a long way to go to fully recover from COVID.

Several businesses in Taiwan were destroyed by COVID. A few examples that didn’t survive were Modern Toilet Ximending and the Starbucks that used to be in Taipei 101 (it was the highest Starbucks in the world – but now Taipei 101 has an even higher cafe ) Owners of tour companies catering to foreigners have had to find other jobs.

Popular night markets in Taiwan , such as Shilin Night Market in Taipei , Miaokou Night Market in Keelung , Feng Chia Night Market in Taichung, and Liuhe Night Market in Kaoshiung also took a major hit, with fewer stalls than they used to have.

Not only do these businesses need more tourists to come back, but also you can enjoy some of Taiwan’s top attractions with much smaller crowds than before. This may not last much longer, so visit soon before it’s too late!

It’s still relatively off the beaten path.

Crowds of people on a narrow lane in Shenkeng old Street

While Taiwan is undeniably popular, it is still nowhere near the likes of Thailand, Bali, or Japan.

There are actually more tourists in Taiwan than you may realize at first glance. In part this is because many of them are from nearby places such as Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia, and you may not even realize they are non-local.

Besides Asian tourists, though, the tourist numbers from other parts of the world remain very low in Taiwan, in stark contrast to the three places I mentioned above.

As long as you avoid the tourist hotspots (or, some might say, traps) like Jiufen Old Street, Sun Moon Lake, and Alishan, you will find that Taiwan still very much feels like an off-the-beaten track destination.

Find off-the-beaten-path spots in Taipei here .

20 Taiwan Beaches I’m Obsessed With

Getting from taoyuan airport to ximending (or ximending to taoyuan airport), 2 thoughts on “30 reasons to visit taiwan asap”.

Second to last paragraph: in stark contrast? Thanks for your posts, been to Taiwan, but continuing to read your posts to relive so many amazing experiences we had. We love Taiwan!

You’re very welcome, and I’ve fixed the typo. Thanks!

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Taiwan Travel Market

Visitors to taiwan.

Taiwan attracted a record 11,864,105 inbound visitors in 2019, up 797,398 visits or 7.21% from 2018.

Key Indicators of Taiwan's Inbound Tourism Market in 2019

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Taiwan's Major Tourism Source Markets in 2019

In 2019, visitor arrivals increased from all major source markets.South Korea was the fastest growing source market.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

According to the findings of the Tourism Bureau’s R.O.C 2019 Survey Report on the Consumption and Activity of Visitors to Taiwan, 46% of visitors requested travel agencies to arrange accommodation (and/or book flights), 32% did not request local travel agencies to arrange or book accommodations and flights and after arriving did not request local travel agencies to arrange any itineraries, and 18% joined package tours arranged by travel agencies.

The main attractions that drew visitors to Taiwan were "fine food or specialty snacks" and "scenic landscapes," and their main activities in Taiwan were shopping, going to night markets, and visiting historic sites. Visitors' deepest impressions of Taiwan were from the cuisine, scenic spots, and going to night markets.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

The main tourist spots visited were night markets, Taipei 101, and Ximending; the places they visited and liked the best were Kenting National Park, Jiufen, and Sun Moon Lake.

In 2019, the average spending by visitors to Taiwan increased by 2.20% to US$195.91 per person per day. Foreign exchange earnings from tourism for the year are estimated to have been US$14.411 billion (up 5.15%), while earnings denominated in New Taiwan dollars rose by 7.83% to NT$445.6 billion.

Domestic Travel

Major indices of r.o.c. citizens’domestic travel.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

  • 1.The survey was conducted on citizens aged 12 and above.
  • 2."※" symbol indicates that the significance level was under 5% and shown by t-test to not be a significant difference.
  • 3.The ratio of citizens who took domestic tourism trips refers to the percentage of the whole population who took at least one domestic tourism trip during the whole year.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

The results of the 2019 Taiwan Tourism Condition Survey Report indicated that Taiwanese people made 169.28 million domestic toursim trips in 2019 (-1.06%). The Tourism Bureau encouraged locals to travel domestically in 2019 to revitalize domestic tourism amidst a weak overall ecomony. The Bureau introduced a "Spring Outing Project" and provided subisidies for an "Incentive Plan to Expand Fall and Winter Domestic Tourism." The number of domestic tourism visits fell 4.08% year over year (YoY) in the first half of 2019, but gained 3.42% in the second half. The Fourth quarter’s growth was the strongest at 6.15%.

Of the total number of domestic trips, 67.00% were weekend or holiday trips and 33.00% were weekday trips; about 88.50% of the domestic trips were self-planned, while tour agency arranged package tours accounting for 1.90%, and school, government, company, village, and other group travel contributed 9.60%. The main factors considered in choice of destinations were, in order of importance, ease of travel or convenience of connections, relaxation, leisure, and health, special events, curiosity to visit an unfamiliar place, and quality of food.

In 2019, average spending per person per tourism trip was NT$2,320 (up 5.31%). Spending on domestic tourism trips for the entire year is estimated at NT$392.7 billion (down 4.19%).

Visitor Trends At Major Tourism Attractions

Since 2001, the Tourism Bureau has collected statistics from subsidiary units on the number of visitors at major tourism and recreation attractions to understand visitor trends at these attractions as a reference for policy planning. The data for 2019 covered 326 attractions. Seventeen new sites were added and four were removed from the year before.

In terms of attraction type (excluding attractions added over the year), the number of visitors increased YoY at 60% of the national parks, national scenic areas, forest recreation areas, recreational farm areas, recreation farms, and religious sites; 50% of museums and other attractions; and about 40% of city and county level designated scenic areas. The number of visitors at all types of attractions fell YoY.

Major scenic spots in the central and southern regions saw the steepest falls in visitor numbers, while more than 60% of northern and outlying island destinations saw visitor increases.

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Visitor Trends at Major Tourism and Recreation Attractions in Taiwan in 2019

taiwan tourist spots 2019

Visitor Trends at Major Tourism and Recreation Attractions in Taiwan by County/City in 2019

taiwan tourist spots 2019

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Taiwan Travel Tips: 24 Essential Things To Know Before You Go

30 May 2020.

Exceptionally beautiful, well organised and unfailingly friendly, Taiwan is a wonderfully easy place to travel.

With spectacular hiking trails and fairytale forests, tastebud-tingling street eats and world-class tea, a rich culture and fascinating history, mindboggling mountains and remote natural hot springs, along with the warmest welcome I’ve ever encountered, my five weeks in Taiwan made for one of my favourite trips of 2019. 

From traveller safety and sticking to your budget to local food and avoiding the crowds, these are my top Taiwan travel tips to help you fall in love with this place just as much as I did. 

* This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

1  |  Download These Useful Apps For Your Trip

From breaking through the language barrier and deciphering streetside menus to figuring out the train network and finding the right hiking trails, these apps will make travelling in Taiwan a whole lot easier and can all be used offline.

Google Translate   |   Normally I just muddle way through any language difficulties with a few key phrases, an awkward smile and plenty of charades, but given many of us won’t be able to read the alphabet here, Google Translate is an absolute lifesaver. Make sure you download the Chinese dictionary before arriving and you’ll be able to use the instant translate option by hovering your phone over any sign or menu. It’s not always entirely accurate, but it’s better than nothing.

Google Maps Offline  |   You can download a map of the entire island of Taiwan offline which is incredibly useful for navigation and includes all train stations, bus stops, MRT routes, restaurants and attractions. Litter your map with stars to keep track of your top destinations.  

Maps.Me  |  While Google Maps is great for cities, Maps.Me is perfect for any hiking adventures. The island is a veritable maze of tiny tracks and many of them are captured on this app. It also often has the Chinese place names written in English characters which can be very useful. 

taipei streets. taiwan travel tips

2  |  You probably won’t need a visa to visit Taiwan

Unlike China which has a complicated visa application process, many nationalities are able to visit Taiwan visa free.

Citizens of Australia, Canada, the USA, the EU and the UK, among others, are able to visit for up to 90 days without a visa, while a number of other nations are eligible to visit visa-free for shorter periods of 14 to 30 days or apply for an e-visa.

Nationals from most countries in South America, Africa and Southern Asia will require a visa. See here for further information.

3  |  Taiwan Is Not Technically A Country

Officially, Taiwan is called the Republic of China and exists as a province of the People’s Republic of China (aka China), but it has many of the hallmarks of an independent nation, including a democratically elected President, military forces and a constitution.

In short, it’s a little complicated.

On the international stage, Taiwan is not widely recognised, in large part because this would severely disrupt any political relationship with China. Taiwan has been barred from having a seat at the UN and for major international events where China is also participating, it is either refused as an independent participant or allowed to participate under the name of ‘Chinese Taipei’, such as in the Olympic Games.

Today, the discussion around Taiwanese independence or unification is a polarising one with tensions escalating in recent months, though surveys show the majority of locals believe leaving things as they are is the best way forward. 

That said, to simplify things I have referred to Taiwan as a country throughout these guides.

READ NEXT:  17 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO DO IN TAIWAN  

4  |  outside of the cities, english is not widely spoken.

The language barrier was definitely something I was concerned about before arriving in Taiwan, especially as I wouldn’t be able to read the language either.

But I really needn’t have worried.

In general, English is not widely spoken, but virtually everyone I met was so wonderfully warm and welcoming that they would go out of their way to help you and if all else failed it was Google Translate to the rescue.

That said, at the very least learning a few basic phrases like ‘Nihao’ or ‘She She’ is always worthwhile .

5  |  You will feel welcomed

‘Welcome to Taiwan!’

This was a phrase I was greeted with countless times during my trip, often accompanied by open arms, a toothy grin, a handshake and the occasional selfie. 

As a blonde-haired, blue-eyed traveller, I never had any hope of blending in in these parts, but I certainly never expected to be welcomed with such genuine warmth at every step of the way.

There was that couple who walked me to the correct bus stop in Taipei when they saw I was visibly lost, the fellow hiker that spent hours chatting about her favourite trails to ensure I got to experience the best of the mountains, the passengers who jumped up without question to help me retrieve my heavy bags off the train and the many, many people who would stop me during the day just to say hello and wish me a pleasant trip. 

Perhaps sweetest of all though was on one of the rare occasions when I had hitched a ride through the mountains with a fellow traveller instead oh waiting several hours for the bus. The couple who had kindly taken us had reached their final destination at a busy viewpoint, but instead of just dropping us by the roadside to continue on our way, they ran around the car park asking every single person if they were heading in our direction. When that failed they stood on the roadside and flagged down each passing car until they found one that would take us.

Of all the things I loved about Taiwan, and there were many, the unwavering kindness in ways both big and small was what left me truly humbled and made the place an absolute joy to explore. This kind of hospitality is not something I’ll be forgetting in a hurry.

taipei streets. taiwan travel tips

6  |  It’s a reasonably affordable destination

Taiwan falls somewhere between expensive Japan and wallet-friendly South East Asia. 

For a five-week trip that mostly involved street food and hostels, along with the odd luxury like a couple of days of diving, a foot massage and a handful of hotel stays thrown in for good measure, my daily budget came out to €32.  

Prices for a hostel dorm bed generally start at around €10 but can be considerably higher in more remote areas like Green Island or Hehuanshan . Popular destinations like Alishan will also command higher rates, especially over weekends and during cherry blossom season. For private rooms, family-run homestays or small guesthouses usually present the best value rather than hotels.  

Street food and local dishes are slightly more expensive than elsewhere in Asia, but munching your way around a night market is unlikely to break the bank (and should not be missed!). 

Local long-distance transport is very reasonably priced and will get you virtually anywhere in the country, while the west coast’s High Speed Rail is a fast and efficient option for anyone not on a tight travel budget. 

GET PLANNING:  HOW TO PLAN THE PERFECT DAY TRIP TO TAROKO NATIONAL PARK

7  |  avoid popular spots on weekends and holidays.

Locals and weekenders absolutely love getting out of the city to explore the countryside and with such astounding natural beauty at every turn, why wouldn’t you.

This does however mean that some of Taiwan’s most beloved spots can become exceptionally crowded on weekends and holidays which can detract somewhat what from their beauty so are best avoided during these periods if you can manage. 

Places that are easily accessible from Taipei, such as Taroko Gorge , Yangmingshan National Park , Jiufen and Shifen, generally receive the most visitors, but destinations that lie further afield and make for an excellent overnight trip ( Sun Moon Lake and Alishan , for example) can also become very busy with visitors. 

Of course, planning your trip around the day of the week isn’t always possible, but if you can, I’d suggest visiting during the week. If weekends are your only option, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and make an early start when you arrive.

sun moon lake. taiwan travel tips

8  |  There are many ways to spell things in English

Translating complex Chinese characters phonetically into English words isn’t always straightforward and often leads to places having several different spellings.

The ‘Zh’ sound is one of the most confusing as it is widely used and can also be written using variations of ‘Sh’, ‘Ch’ or ‘J’ characters.

Just know that if it looks vaguely correct and seems to be in the right location, there’s a good chance it’s the same place.

Well, except for Taichung and Taitung, they’re completely different.

9  |  It’s a perfect destination for solo female travel

Travelling to a new destination as a solo female never fails to bring with it a host of questions.

Is it normal for women to be out alone? How conservatively do I need to dress? Is it safe to wander around at night?

Thankfully, I have never felt quite so safe in a place as I did in Taiwan. Everyone I encountered was nothing short of welcoming, extremely kind and respectful. No gawking stares. No catcalling. No creepy whispers as you walk by.

Though I always take the usual precautions when I travel, here I felt comfortable enough to loosen the reigns a little which was wonderfully refreshing and meant I could confidently explore cities alone at night, go hiking solo and even went as far as to hitchhike in the mountains rather than wait for a bus which is something I never normally do.

Taiwan is the highest-ranking nation in Asia and among the top in the world overall when it comes to gender equality and it really shows.

hehuanshan hiking taiwan. taiwan travel tips

10  |  You’ll Always Find A Bargain Online

For some of Taiwan’s most popular and iconic experiences, you’ll find some excellent deals online on anything from transport to dining out.

If it’s something you’re planning to do anyway, why wait needlessly in a queue or pay more than you need to!

Popular choices include early-bird discounts for the High Speed Rail , skip-the-line access to the Taipei 101 Observatory , pre-ordered meals at the incredibly popular Din Tai Fung , one of Taipei’s best restaurants, or discounted boba milk tea from the always busy Xing Fu Tang . 

For more great deals on transport, tours, foodie adventures and day trips, check here . 

READ NEXT:  THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ALISHAN | TAIWAN’S MAGICAL ANCIENT FOREST

11  |  it’s an incredible destination for hiking, just don’t forget your permit.

For avid hikers and lovers of the outdoors, Taiwan is an absolute dream destination.

From dramatic emerald hills that cascade toward the windswept sea, to dense bamboo forests that feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook, to high alpine peaks that reward you with unparalleled vistas, there’s really no better way to experience Taiwan than with a pair of dusty boots and the trail at your feet.

You’ll find a vast network of hiking trails that crisscross the island and make it incredibly easy to get off the beaten path, and while many are well-marked and free to access, there are a handful of more challenging tracks or those where numbers are restricted that do require you to have a permit.

Some are easy to secure just a few weeks in advance, whereas others involve a slightly complicated application process and need to be applied for months in advance. There are also occasionally two different permits required for a hike – a National Park Entry Permit and Mountain Entry Permit (sometimes called a Police Permit).

If you’re a keen hiker hoping to head into the mountains, I’d highly, highly recommend locking your plans in early so that you can acquire the appropriate paperwork on time and avoid being disappointed.

Popular hiking trails that will require a permit are the Zhuilu Old Trail in Taroko Gorge , Yushan, Taiwan’s highest peak, and Shei Pa National Park which is famous for its high ridge trail.

taroko gorge. taiwan travel tips

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12  |  get an easycard as soon as you arrive.

Do yourself a favour and pick up an EasyCard as soon as you arrive in Taiwan.

They’re available at the airport and convenience stores like 7-11 and Family Mart and can be used on public transport throughout the country, often giving a reduced fare.

Most importantly, it will also save you from having to rummage around for the correct change every time you need to jump on the metro or bus.

The card itself is $100 (€3) and you can top up your balance as needed. Then, simply tap on and off for every trip.

If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, you also can order your EasyCard in advance for collection at the airport here . When I bought mine in Taipei, it was cash only so buying it in advance means you can collect your card directly from the counter rather than searching for an ATM in your post-flight sleep-deprived state.

easy card. taiwan travel tips

13  |  Public Transport Is Excellent

Public transport in Taiwan is efficient and widespread making travelling across the country a breeze. 

In Taipei, the metro or MRT is frequent, cheap and easy to use, while the vast web of local trains and buses make a number of day trip destinations in northern Taiwan easily accessible. Within other major cities, buses will be your bread and butter of getting around.

For travel further afield, local trains ( TRA ) are cheaper, slower and more frequent than the high-speed trains and cover a much wider network in Taiwan, travelling up and down both sides of the country and often rewarding you with incredible scenery along the way, particularly on the mountainous east coast. Check fares and timetables here .

Travelling down the west coast only, the Taiwan High Speed Rail ( THSR ) runs between Taipei and Kaohsiung’s Zuoying Station in just 2 hours. Though they’re quite a bit more expensive than the slower local trains, they’re incredibly efficient for anyone short on time and offer generous discounts for multi-day tickets and early bird purchases (sometimes up to 35%). Check the timetable here or get a discount for advance bookings here .

Taiwan’s mountainous heart is the only place that is somewhat challenging to reach. For popular destinations, there are generally dedicated ‘tourist shuttles’ or long-distance buses though services are often infrequent and reliable timetables hard to find. Your guesthouse should be able to point you in the right direction.

DON’T MISS:  WHAT TO DO IN ENCHANTING JIUFEN + JINGUASHI

14  |  take care when renting a scooter.

Travelling by scooter is a way of life for locals and a rite of passage for travellers in virtually all of Asia. But while many countries may turn a blind eye to unlicensed and inexperienced foreigners, Taiwan generally takes a stricter stance.

Officially, you are required to have either a motorbike license or an International Drivers License that covers motorbikes. A regular driver’s license isn’t good enough.

That said, there are exceptions and not every operator is stringent in following regulations, but after a series of tragic accidents involving tourists over the years, enforcing of the rules is becoming more common.

The good news is that you’ll virtually always find electric scooters available for rent alongside the usual petrol variety, and while these tend to be slightly more expensive and slower, they can be hired without an official license as well as being better for the environment.

taipei streets. taiwan travel tips. taiwan pictures.

15  |  Prices increase during weekends and flower season

Another darn good reason to avoid travel on the weekends is that as Friday and Saturday roll around, it’s not uncommon for accommodation prices to double, capitalising on the many of weekend tourists heading out to explore more of this beautiful island.

Destinations that become wrapped up in cherry blossom fever can also command far higher prices than usual during peak times.

If you’re on a tight budget, plan ahead and try to avoid key tourist areas during these times, or find accommodation that won’t hit you with a price hike.

HIT THE TRAIL:  EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING HEHUANSHAN

16  |  there’s a great hostel scene.

As a budget traveller, you’ll have no issue finding affordable, high-quality hostels in every major city in Taiwan.

From modest and homely hideaways to trendy well-designed spaces, most hostels have embraced the capsule-style of bed with a light, power socket and shelf, and a roll down blind or curtain to offer an extra level of privacy.

Many hostels are also surprisingly roomy, with some even providing double dorm beds as the norm, making it far too easy to escape into your own little bubble at the end of a busy day, separate from the noisy packers and late-night light-turner-on-erers.

Search for your Taiwan accommodation here.

taiwan accommodation. taiwan travel tips

17  |  Don’t Miss The Night Markets

Tightly packed bodies jostle between food stalls, smoke billows into narrow laneways, large woks simmer away with century-old recipes and intoxicating aromas fill the air.

You can’t possibly visit Taiwan and not spend at least an evening or two absorbed in the clamour of its night markets. Aside from being a feast for the senses, they’re one of the best places to sample Taiwan’s street food and local delicacies. 

Taiwanese cuisine is very much a melting pot derived from various ethnicities with Japanese and Chinese flavours being prominent, alongside the influence of indigenous and Hakka communities. These were some of my favourite dishes.  

Beef Noodle Soup   |    Taiwan’s national dish, this hearty concoction of braised beef, noodles and a flavour-packed spiced broth is one not to miss.  

Dumplings   |   Steam ’em, fry ’em, stick ’em in a soup, there are a hundred different ways to enjoy the humble dumpling, all of them delicious and sure to put you into a blissful food coma many times during your trip. The standard filling contains pork, but there are numerous restaurants that offer veggie options as well.   

Scallion Pancakes   |    This was the very first thing I ate in Taiwan and I’m still craving one all these months later! A flaky, crispy roti-style flatbread woven with finely chopped green onions, this simple street snack can be found across Taiwan and is so damn good. You can choose your own fillings like cheese, smoked chicken or peppered beef, but my go-to was fried egg, Thai basil and spicy sauce. Yum!

Peanut Ice Cream Roll   |   A wafer-thin crepe filled with a generous sprinkle of shaved peanut brittle, vibrant fruity ice cream and garnish of fresh coriander (cilantro). The lot is bundled into a small burrito and is a textural sensation. Some stalls try to skip over the coriander bit, but in my humble opinion, this is where the real genius lies.        

Stinky Tofu   |    Ok, so this wasn’t exactly one of my favourites, but you kinda can’t leave Taiwan without giving it a go. While it’s an acquired taste and the stench can be… overwhelming – it’s certainly a dish that you’ll smell long before you see – it’s also one of Taiwan’s most beloved delicacies. The tofu is prepared in a brine of fermented milk, vegetables, meat and aromatics where it may sit for months before being served.

Taiwanese Hamburgers  |    A fluffy steamed bun stuffed with sticky pork belly and some greenery, these tasty handfuls will leaving you wanting just another bite. Though this is the typical version, many shops also offer veggie options with either mushroom, tofu or egg as the main filling.      

There are dozens of night markets scattered around Taiwan, so be sure to arrive with an empty belly, wander slowly and munch your way through all the things! 

taipei night markets. taiwan travel tips

18  |  Bring a set of reusable cutlery

Between the chaotic night markets, ancient hole-in-the-wall eateries and fantastic sit-down restaurants, dining out in Taiwan is an experience in itself.

Unfortunately, many places prioritise convenience over all else and will often only provide you with disposable single-use plastic cutlery, even if you’re eating in.

Instead of churning your way through what will literally be hundreds of unnecessary and completely avoidable pieces of plastic by the end of your trip, pack a set of reusable utensils in your day bag ready to be used at any occasion.

I carryied around a pair of chopsticks, a metal fork and a tablespoon in my handbag and used them on a daily basis. If you’re a lover of takeaway drinks, adding a thick reusable straw and/or a collapsible cup is also a good idea.

GET HIKING:  A COMPLETE GUIDE TO YANGMINGSHAN NATIONAL PARK

19  |  boba tea is life.

I had my first ever boba milk tea on my second day in Taipei and it was love at first sip.

So, naturally, I dove straight into making up for lost time. 

Though now popular across the world, this delectably creamy and deliciously refreshing drink originated in Taiwan and you can’t walk a block here without passing several tea shops. Some specialise in green tea and fruit infusions, some focus on flavoured tapioca pearls and others strictly serve up the milky varieties. 

They’re all well-loved, they’re all found everywhere and the only thing for it is to try them all for yourself. 

My favourite was the signature brown sugar boba milk tea from perennially popular Xing Fu Tang. The mix of luxuriously creamy tea and not-too-sweet sticky caramel tapioca balls had me craving one every single day.

taipei night markets. taiwan travel tips

20  |  It’s not the best for vegetarians, but you can make it work

Full disclosure, I’m not a vegetarian, but I do try to limit my meat consumption to just a couple of times a week. In Taiwan, however, that wasn’t always easy with night markets being particularly challenging.

All major cities have dedicated vegetarian restaurants, but in small towns and mountains villages you may need to plan ahead.

In case your body is crying out for a vitamin kick and a healthy dose of fresh produce which the cuisine decidedly lacks, be sure to stock up with everything you’ll need for hiking and road snacks in the city as supplies in the countryside are often limited.

21  |  You’ll probably end up eating at a convenience store (and that’s totally fine!)

With so many delicious street eats to choose from, it may sound a little nutty to dine in a 7-11, but chances are it will happen at least once during your trip.

I had read a lot about the ubiquitous convenience stores before arriving in Taiwan and had quietly scoffed thinking I would never actually eat there while I had one of the world’s best foodie destinations on my doorstep.

Turns out, these shops are actually pretty bloody, well, convenient, and I, like many, many other travellers ended up eating here on more than one occasion.

Of course, sampling local delicacies from unassuming hole-in-the-wall eateries is an experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Taiwan, but when you’re running late for the train, are craving a familiar dish (hello green curry!), or just need a cheap eat in an expensive tourist town, these stores can be a lifesaver.

They’re always an affordable and reliable choice and I also heard from several vegetarian travellers that in smaller towns where veggie restaurants were limited, these were often the best option.

sun moon lake. taiwan travel tips

22  |  Typhoon Season is June to October

Typhoons generally hit Taiwan between June and October when a deluge of rain is dumped across the country accompanied by strong winds.

Surprisingly, this is peak tourist season and one of the most popular times for travel across the region, but expect to be met by gloomy skies, frequent rainy days and hot, humid conditions.

DON’T MISS:  THE BEST THINGS TO DO AT THE DREAMY SUN MOON LAKE  

23  |  when to go petal peeping.

Cherry blossom fever has become a global phenomenon in recent years and Taiwan is no exception. But along with these delicate white florals, the country also plays host to a number of other blooms that attract hoards of visitors to witness the landscapes erupting in a riot of colour.

With flower festivals in full swing, these tend to be the busiest time of year for certain regions so be sure to plan accordingly.

Cherry Blossoms  |   Springtime means cherry blossoms! In Yangmingshan National Park , blooms can arrive as early as February usually peaking by early March, while the higher altitude of Alishan means a later season between March and April. Other popular spots for cherry blossoms include Wuling Farm in the heart of the mountains and around Tianyuan Temple in New Taipei.

Rhododendrons  |  Next up on the flower enthusiast calendar is the rhododendron season where thousands of tiny florals unfurl across Taiwan’s landscapes and high mountains peaks. Taroko National Park and Hehuanshan are popular places to see the blooms with the peak viewing period lasting from April to June.

Daylilies  |   Arriving in late summer, golden daylilies blanket the lush plateau of Liushishishan or Sixty Stone Mountain that rises from the vast checkered plains of the East Rift Valley . Visit between August and September for the best of the blooms.

east rift valley. taiwan travel tips

24  |  The Best Time To Visit Taiwan

Between the monsoonal rains, cherry blossom fever and oppressive summer mugginess, it can be hard to determine when the best time to visit Taiwan actually is.

While summer is when tourism booms across the country, the searing heat, crowds and high chance of storms mean this isn’t an ideal time to plan your trip.

Anytime between late autumn and spring are far more pleasant when you’ll be welcomed with comfortable temperatures, fewer visitors and low season prices for accommodation and tours. The only downside is that some tour operators or transport routes to popular summer destinations may not be running at full capacity.

Avid hikers should prepare for chilly conditions in the mountains outside of summer, while flower enthusiasts should consider visiting in spring when much of Taiwan bursts into colour.

Taiwan Travel Tips: 24 Essential Things To Know Before You Go

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Popular international travel destinations in Taiwan 2019

Share of taiwanese respondents who traveled or intended to travel abroad in 2019, by region.

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InsightXplorer

Worldwide, Taiwan

July 1 to 4, 2019

651 respondents

15-64 years

among those who traveled or planned to travel abroad in 2019; multiple answers allowed

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Original survey question: Where have you traveled or planned to travel overseas this year?

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taiwanmap360.com

Taiwan tourist map

You can find on this page the Taiwan tourist map to print and to download in PDF. The Taiwan tourist attractions map presents the monuments, museums, parks and points of interest of Taiwan in Eastern Asia.

Taiwan travel map

Map of Taiwan travel

The Taiwan tourist map shows all tourist places and points of interest of Taiwan. This travel map of Taiwan will allow you to easily plan your visits of landmarks of Taiwan in Eastern Asia. The Taiwan tourist map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

According to the findings of the Tourism Bureau R.O.C 2019 Survey Report on the Consumption and Activity of Visitors to Taiwan, 46% of visitors requested travel agencies to arrange accommodation (and/or book flights), 32% did not request local travel agencies to arrange or book accommodations and flights and after arriving did not request local travel agencies to arrange any itineraries, and 18% joined package tours arranged by travel agencies. The main attractions that drew visitors to Taiwan were "fine food or specialty snacks" and "scenic landscapes," and their main activities in Taiwan were shopping, going to night markets, and visiting historic sites as you can see in Taiwan tourist map. Visitors deepest impressions of Taiwan were from the cuisine, scenic spots, and going to night markets.

The main tourist spots visited were night markets, Taipei 101, and Ximending; the places they visited and liked the best were Kenting National Park, Jiufen, and Sun Moon Lake. In 2019, the average spending by visitors to Taiwan increased by 2.20% to US$195.91 per person per day. Foreign exchange earnings from tourism for the year are estimated to have been US$14.411 billion (up 5.15%) as its shown in Taiwan tourist map, while earnings denominated in New Taiwan dollars rose by 7.83% to NT$445.6 billion. The results of the 2019 Taiwan Tourism Condition Survey Report indicated that Taiwanese people made 169.28 million domestic toursim trips in 2019 (-1.06%). The Tourism Bureau encouraged locals to travel domestically in 2019 to revitalize domestic tourism amidst a weak overall ecomony.

According to Taiwan tourism bureau, the number of foreign visitors to Taiwan in 2019 hit a record 11.84 million, a 7% increase from the previous year and the sharpest annual jump since 2014 as its mentioned in Taiwan tourist map. Visitors from China, meanwhile, increased 0.5% from the previous year. Tourist numbers from China to Taiwan have never quite recovered to the highs of the pre-2016 years, when a government that espoused closer ties to Beijing was in power in Taipei. Nonetheless, Taiwan has made up for that shortfall by luring tourists from other markets, mostly Japan and Southeast Asia, and by relaxing visa requirements for some countries. Last year, the number of visitors from Japan exceed 2 million for the first time.

Taiwan attractions map

Taiwan tourist attractions map

Map of Taiwan tourist attractions

The Taiwan attractions map shows all monuments and sightseeing of Taiwan. This tourist attractions map of Taiwan will allow you to easily discover monuments, museums ans places to visit of Taiwan in Eastern Asia. The Taiwan attractions map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

Visitors to Taiwan are spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do and places of incredible natural beauty to visit on the island – with so many attractions, it is hard to figure out what to see. Taipei 101 as you can see in Taiwan attractions map, the one-time tallest building in the world may no longer be a record holder, but it is still one of Taiwan most impressive buildings and well worth a visit. The 728-ton mass damper that allows the building to survive the island many earthquakes is an amazing piece of engineering and can be seen from various points within the building. Home to one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, the National Palace Museum offers a look into imperial China past. The many thousands of items on display were rescued by Chiang Kai-Shek government as they fled mainland China during the cultural revolution.

A couple of hours train ride from Taipei lies Taroko National Park, home to one of the most visited natural wonders in Taiwan. Take the trail to the Eternal Spring Shrine which features a stunning waterfall. Another of the most beautiful national parks in Taiwan, Yushan National Park is the setting for the country tallest mountain along with several other picturesque peaks such as Sanqingshan. Alishan mountain railway as its shown in Taiwan attractions map, is an ever popular tourist destination with both local and foreign tourists. The train winds its way to the top of the mountain where there are plenty of easy hiking trails that offer fantastic photo opportunities. Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in Taiwan and a great destination for a short trip. There are scores of hotels located around the lake which is busy with yachts taking tourists from one side to the other. There is also a cable car here that takes you to the Formosa Aboriginal Culture Village.

Maokong as its mentioned in Taiwan attractions map, this well-known spot is one of the best places in Taipei to enjoy a cup of tea. The incredible scenery is worth the trip alone, but it is perhaps the gondola ride from the zoo to Maokong which has made it one of the most popular day trips to make during a stay in Taipei. Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, located on the edge of Lotus Lake, a scenic area in the heart of Kaohsiung, these two pagodas are possibly the most popular attractions in the port city. Visitors enter the temples through the dragon and tiger mouths and can enjoy a view of the lake from the top of each tower. South of Kaohsiung lies the region known as Maolin National Scenic Area. This is where you will find Purple Butterfly Valley, the wintering home for a million Euploeini butterflies. An incredible sight to behold if you are lucky enough to arrive at the right time of the year.

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taiwan tourist spots 2019

21 Cool Tainan Tourist Spots And Things to do in Tainan & Itinerary

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Categories Taiwan

21 Cool Tainan Tourist Spots And Things to do in Tainan & Itinerary – Tainan was Taiwan’s capital from 1683 to 1885 and is Taiwan’s fourth-largest city. There are many historic temples and you will try the best food in Taiwan. Taiwanese language is more popular than Mandarin.

After this small introduction of Tainan we will write our favorite 21 Tainan Tainan tourist spots and things to do in Tainan. Keep reading below our Tainan travel guide.

Read here Taiwan itinerary and things to know before visiting Taiwan !

Table of Contents

WHERE TO STAY IN TAINAN

For accommodation, you can find accommodation prices starting from  $30-50 USD  depending on how much you want to stretch your budget. Until luxury hotels in Tainan that can cost  $100-300 USD  for a room if you wish more comfort when visiting Tainan. Click here to get the best deals via  Booking  and  Agoda .

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

You can read  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full  Heymondo Travel Insurance Review

You can get  Safetywing Travel Insurance  for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days  Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included

Tainan Travel Guide –  Tainan Tourist Spots And Things to do in Tainan

1. tainan confucius temple.

Confucious Temple is located in the Tainan city center. It’s one of the most popular Tainan tourist spots. There is no entrance fee and it’s beautiful to relax and walking around the garden. There is no entrance fee.

2. Chihkan Tower

3. anping district old town and anping fort.

Image from Eng Taiwan- Things to do in Tainan

Anping Fort (called Fort Zelandia) was built by the Dutch from 1624 to 1634. Anping Fort entrance fee of 50 TWD . The buses 2, 88 and 99 are going to Anping Fort from Tainan Train Station.

4. Visit Night Markets (Garden Night Market)

5. chimei museum.

The Chimei Museum is a private museum opened in 1992 by Shi Wen-long of Chi Mei in Tainan. There are five categories: Fine arts, Musical instruments, Natural history, Arms and armor, Antiquities and artifacts. The entrance fee is 200 TWD . It’s closed on Wednesdays and opening from 9 30 am to 5 30 pm.

Click here to get a discount booking your entrance ticket with Klook !

6. Try Local Markets Shaved Fruits

You can’t skip trying local delicacies in Tainan. Our favorite one was Shaved fruits that it’s served everywhere during the day especially with hot weather. They are so delicious and prices are $2-3 USD .

7. Blueprint Cultural & Creative Park

8. ten drum rende creative park.

Image from Flickr

Ten Drum Rende Creative Park is great if you are traveling with kids to visit the drum performance. There are VR games, laser tag. To get there you have to get a train from Kaohsiung Main Station to Baoen Train Station. It will take 50 minutes to get there. The entrance fee is 400 TWD for the whole day and if you go only for the evening is 200 TWD .

9. Great South Gate of Tainan

Image from Wikipedia

Tainan Great South Gate is a historical gate in West Central District. It’s located just two blocks away from Confucius Temple. There is no entrance fee.

10. Koxinga’s Ancestral Shrine

Image from Taiwan Tourism Bureau- Things to do in Tainan

Koxinga Ancestral Shrine is located in West Central District. It was built in memory of the work and achievement of Cheng Cheng Kung, the pioneer of Taiwan.

Click here to get a discount booking activities with Klook in Tainan !

More Tainan Tourist Spots And Things to do in Tainan

11. visit back alleys markets, 12. national museum of taiwanese literature.

National Museum of Taiwanese Literature is a new Museum opened in 2003. Most of the exhibitions are in Chinese. But it’s located walking distance from city center if you want to take a look. There is no entrance fee.

13. Shennong Street

14. visit temples in tainan.

There are many temples to visit in Tainan. It’s the perfect place to learn about the culture and religion. You will see locals praying and giving donations. They are so colorful.

These are the most popular ones in Tainan: God of War Temple, Matsu Temple, Beiji Temple, Guan Gong Temple, Lady Linshui Temple, City God Temple, Fahua Temple

15. Try KTV in Tainan

If you want to have fun and enjoying local vibe. KTV is one of the best plans to do in Tainan. You can rent a room to sing with your friends. Prices are around $12-30 USD per hour good enough for 7-8 people.

16. Dashu Old Railway Sky Bridge

Image from Alexis Jetsets

Dashu Old Railway Sky Bridge was built in 1913 by the Japanese. It’s 1526 meters long and it survived World War II.

17. Soulangh Cultural Park

Image from Travel Tainan

Soulangh Cultural Park is also known as Jiali Sugar Refinery. It was established in 2003 reusing the empty space. Nowadays days is a leisure park for locals.

18. Yuguang Island

19. qigu lagoon.

The Qigu Lagoon is an ecological conservation area located on the estuary of the Zengwen River. It’s a rural and quiet area to visit in Tainan. This list of Tainan tourist spots would be perfect for relaxing.

20. Jingzaijiao Tile-Paved salt fields

Image from Flickr- Things to do in Tainan

The Jingzaijiao Tiled Salt Fields were formerly known as Laidong Salt Fields originally a barren desert. To get there you have to take the train to Tainan Railway Station and get Xingnan Bus to Xishan Stop.

21. Sicao Green Tunnel

Sicao Green Tunnel is one of the most idyllic Tainan tourist spots. The mangrove forest is extending and forming a tunnel. You have to go to Annan District to watch this. There is an entrance fee of 200 TWD and it will take 30-40 minutes for the boat ride.

SILKS PLACE

We stayed at  Silks Place in Tainan. We enjoyed a local atmosphere learning about the tea. Trying delicious local food. We enjoyed Robbin’s Steak Teppanyaki where we enjoyed dinner with our private chef. The food was delicious great meat, salad and delicious desserts.

For breakfasts you can enjoy Western or Chinese breakfast. We liked it more the Chinese breakfast. The location was great just a few steps from city center. And only two kilometers far from Bus and Train Station. Click here to check prices and availability !

Feel free to use our links for discounts. Using our links will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys. Happy Travels!

Ruben Arribas

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

Tainan Hotels: 15 Best Hotels in Tainan (Where to Stay in Tainan) - Gamintraveler

Sunday 7th of August 2022

[…] capital from 1683 to 1885 and is Taiwan’s fourth largest city. We will wrote our favorite things to do in Tainan. We will tell you about Tainan hotels staring from $20-30 USD and you will find mid budget hotels […]

How to get from Taipei to Tainan by Train And Bus - Gamintraveler

Tuesday 22nd of September 2020

[…] is a great place to visit to feel Taiwanese culture especially about food. There are many Tainan tourist spots and the ones we loved it mostly were markets. We enjoyed meeting people and happy to visit […]

How to get to Tainan by Bus and Train - Gamintraveler

Tuesday 24th of December 2019

[…] Tainan is a great place to visit to feel Taiwanese culture especially about food. There are many Tainan tourist spots and the ones we loved it mostly were markets. We enjoyed meeting people and happy to visit Tainan. […]

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    The main tourist spots visited were night markets, Taipei 101, and Ximending; the places they visited and liked the best were Kenting National Park, Jiufen, and Sun Moon Lake. In 2019, the average spending by visitors to Taiwan increased by 2.20% to US$195.91 per person per day. Foreign exchange earnings from tourism for the year are estimated ...

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  23. 21 Cool Tainan Tourist Spots And Things to do in Tainan

    21 Cool Tainan Tourist Spots And Things to do in Tainan & Itinerary - Tainan was Taiwan's capital from 1683 to 1885 and is Taiwan's fourth-largest city. There are many historic temples and you will try the best food in Taiwan. Taiwanese language is more popular than Mandarin.