A Wonderful Journey to Southeast Asia
Taiwan, located off the southeastern coast of China, is a captivating island that blends ancient traditions with modern energy. From the bustling night markets and skyscrapers of Taipei to tranquil temples, lush tea plantations, and scenic coastal cliffs, Taiwan offers diverse experiences for every traveler.
Visitors can hike through misty mountains, soak in natural hot springs, and explore vibrant street food scenes showcasing bubble tea, beef noodle soup, and fresh seafood. Taiwan’s warm hospitality and efficient transport system make it easy to discover its cultural treasures and natural wonders, creating an unforgettable journey across this dynamic island.
Taipei - Urban Energy and Culture
Located in northern Taiwan, Taipei covers around 271 km² with a population of about 2.5 million.
This vibrant capital seamlessly blends modern skyscrapers with traditional temples and lively street markets. Key attractions include the towering Taipei 101, the historic Longshan Temple, and the cultural treasures at the National Palace Museum. Visitors can stroll through the creative Huashan 1914 Cultural Park, explore the lively Ximending district, and relax at the nearby Beitou Hot Springs. Night markets like Shilin and Raohe offer delicious street food, from bubble tea and stinky tofu to fresh seafood.
Taipei is served by Taoyuan International Airport (about 40 km from the city) and Songshan Airport (closer to downtown). An efficient MRT and bus system makes exploring the city smooth and convenient.
Taichung - Culture and Creativity Hub
Located in central Taiwan, Taichung spans around 2,214 km² with a population of about 2.8 million.
Known for its pleasant climate and vibrant cultural scene, Taichung offers a mix of modern art spaces and natural escapes. Key attractions include the National Taichung Theater, Rainbow Village, and the National Museum of Natural Science. Visitors can stroll through the Calligraphy Greenway, explore the Gaomei Wetlands for sunset views, or enjoy the lively Fengjia Night Market for local street food. Nearby, the scenic Xinshe Castle and Lavender Cottage provide relaxing day-trip options.
Taichung is accessible by Taiwan High-Speed Rail (about 1 hour from Taipei) and has an efficient bus and local train network for easy exploration.
Tainan - Taiwan’s Historic Heart
Situated in southern Taiwan, Tainan covers about 2,192 km² with a population of approximately 1.9 million.
As Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan is renowned for its historic temples, forts, and rich cultural heritage. Must-see sites include Chihkan Tower, Anping Fort, and the Confucius Temple. The city’s vibrant streets are filled with traditional snack stalls serving dishes like Danzai noodles and milkfish soup. Visitors can explore the old streets of Anping, wander the Flower Night Market, or discover hidden temples tucked into local alleys.
Tainan is easily reached by Taiwan High-Speed Rail (about 1.5 hours from Taipei) or by express trains, making it ideal for cultural immersion.
Kaohsiung - Harbor City with a Creative Pulse
Located in southern Taiwan, Kaohsiung spans around 2,951 km² with a population of about 2.7 million.
This dynamic port city is known for its modern waterfront, artistic districts, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Key attractions include the Pier-2 Art Center, the colorful Dome of Light in Formosa Boulevard Station, and the Lotus Pond with its dragon and tiger pagodas. Visitors can stroll along the Love River, take a ferry to Cijin Island for seafood and beaches, and explore the night markets like Liuhe and Ruifeng for local delicacies.
Kaohsiung International Airport offers easy domestic and regional connections, while the city’s MRT system and light rail make local travel smooth.
Hualien - Gateway to Taroko Gorge
Situated on Taiwan’s east coast, Hualien spans around 4,628 km² with a population of about 330,000.
Hualien is famed for its stunning natural landscapes, serving as the main gateway to Taroko Gorge National Park, with its marble cliffs, turquoise rivers, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can bike along the Qixingtan Beach, explore the East Rift Valley, or relax in local hot springs. The city itself offers a laid-back atmosphere, with night markets featuring indigenous and local snacks.
Hualien is accessible by train from Taipei (about 2–3 hours) or by domestic flights, making it a perfect base for nature-focused adventures.
Sun Moon Lake - Serene Lakeside Retreat
Located in the heart of Taiwan in Nantou County, Sun Moon Lake covers approximately 7.93 km² and sits at an elevation of 748 meters.
Renowned for its tranquil waters surrounded by forested mountains, Sun Moon Lake offers cycling paths, boat cruises, and hiking trails with scenic views. Key sites include Wenwu Temple, Xuanzang Temple, and the Ci’en Pagoda, providing cultural exploration amid natural beauty. Visitors can also explore the nearby Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village for cultural performances and gardens.
Sun Moon Lake is best accessed via Taichung (about 1.5 hours by bus), making it a popular day-trip or overnight retreat for relaxation and nature exploration.
Jiufen - Mountain Village Charm
Located in the hills of northeastern Taiwan in New Taipei City, Jiufen is a quaint village perched on steep slopes overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Once a prosperous gold mining town, Jiufen is now famed for its lantern-lit alleys, nostalgic tea houses, and atmospheric streets that inspired scenes from Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.
Key attractions include Jiufen Old Street with its traditional snack stalls (try taro balls and herbal rice cakes), the A-Mei Teahouse with sweeping coastal views, and the nearby Gold Museum in Jinguashi. Visitors can also hike the Keelung Mountain Trail for panoramic vistas or explore the nearby coastal town of Shifen with its waterfalls and sky lantern tradition.
Jiufen is accessible from Taipei in about 1–1.5 hours by train and bus, making it an ideal day trip for those seeking a blend of culture, history, and mountain scenery.
Alishan - Misty Mountains and Forest Trails
Located in Chiayi County in central Taiwan, Alishan is a scenic mountain area renowned for its sunrises, sea of clouds, and ancient cypress forests. The Alishan National Scenic Area offers a tranquil retreat with cool mountain air, cherry blossoms in spring, and vibrant maple leaves in autumn.
Key attractions include the Alishan Forest Railway, Sister Ponds, Shouzhen Temple, and the Giant Sacred Tree. Visitors can take sunrise tours to the iconic Zhushan viewing platform to witness breathtaking dawn scenes over the mountains.
Alishan is accessible by train from Taipei to Chiayi (about 3 hours), followed by the Alishan Forest Railway or bus ride (about 2.5 hours), making it a rewarding mountain escape for nature lovers.
Kenting - Tropical Beach Paradise
Situated on the southern tip of Taiwan in Pingtung County, Kenting National Park spans around 333 km² and is known for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and tropical climate. It’s a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and enjoying vibrant seaside nightlife.
Highlights include South Bay Beach, Eluanbi Lighthouse, Longpan Park, and the lively Kenting Night Market. The area is also home to diverse wildlife and lush coastal landscapes, offering scenic hikes with ocean views.
Kenting is accessible from Kaohsiung by bus or private transfer, taking approximately 2–2.5 hours, making it an ideal destination for a tropical getaway in Taiwan.
Penghu Islands - Coastal Heritage and Clear Waters
Located in the Taiwan Strait between Taiwan and China, the Penghu Archipelago consists of around 90 islands, known for their clear turquoise waters, basalt landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
Key attractions include the historic Penghu Tianhou Temple, basalt column formations at the Whale Cave and Tongpan Island, and pristine beaches for water sports like windsurfing and snorkeling. Visitors can also experience traditional fishing village life and sample local seafood, such as grilled squid and cactus ice cream.
Magong, the main city in Penghu, is accessible via direct flights from Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung (about 1 hour), making it a convenient island retreat for nature, adventure, and local culture.
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