An itinerary for Taiwan
Destination: Taiwan
Tags: Explore, Taiwan, Night Markets, Taipei, Alishan, Sun Moon Lake
Author: Moo_The_Trotter
Updated:
About: An iconic skyscraper with an observatory and luxury mall.
Address: No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110
Types: skyscraper, landmark
Notes: Once the world's tallest building, Taipei 101 offers panoramic views of the city from its observatory and houses a high-end shopping mall at its base. Visit late afternoon to see the city transition from day to night.
About: Ornate Taoist temple.
Address: No. 61, Hami St, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103
Types: temple, historic site
Notes: An exquisite example of traditional Taiwanese temple architecture, celebrated for its intricate carvings and vibrant frescoes, earning it a UNESCO award. Visit during the Lantern Festival for glowing vistas.
About: Houses one of the world's largest collections of Chinese art.
Address: No. 221, Sec 2, Zhishan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111
Types: museum, art museum
Notes: Explore nearly 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks, spanning thousands of years of history. Don't miss the famous 'Jadeite Cabbage' and 'Meat-shaped Stone.'
About: Taiwan's oldest museum.
Address: No. 2, Xiangyang Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100
Types: museum, historic building
Notes: Housed in a grand Baroque-style building, this is Taiwan's oldest museum, showcasing natural history and indigenous culture. Its beautiful exterior makes for an impressive photo.
About: A grand monument dedicated to Taiwan's former president.
Address: No. 21, Zhongshan S Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100
Types: memorial, landmark
Notes: Witness the impressive changing of the guard ceremony at this iconic landmark, surrounded by beautiful gardens, a national theater, and a concert hall. Arrive before the hour for the best viewing spots.
About: A vibrant and trendy shopping and entertainment district.
Address: Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan
Types: shopping district, entertainment
Notes: Immerse yourself in Taipei's youth culture in this bustling district, known for its fashion, street performers, cinema, and diverse food options. Explore the side alleys for unique boutiques and cafes.
About: An ornate, historic Buddhist temple in Taipei.
Address: No. 211, Guangzhou St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108
Types: temple, historic site
Notes: One of Taiwan's oldest and most renowned temples, featuring intricate carvings, vibrant decorations, and a peaceful atmosphere for worship and cultural appreciation. Observe local traditions during your visit.
About: Taipei's largest and most famous night market.
Address: No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111
Types: night market, food market
Notes: Indulge in a vast array of Taiwanese street food, from crispy fried chicken to oyster omelets, and enjoy carnival games and shopping. Come hungry and be prepared for crowds.
About: A charming old town with stunning views and traditional teahouses.
Address: Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 224
Types: old town, historic site
Notes: Wander through narrow, lantern-lined alleys, enjoy local snacks, and soak in the atmospheric charm of this former mining town, said to inspire scenes from 'Spirited Away.' Visit on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.
About: A majestic cascading waterfall, known as 'Little Niagara.'
Address: No. 10 Gankeng, Pingxi District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 226
Types: waterfall, natural landmark
Notes: Witness the powerful, horseshoe-shaped Shifen Waterfall, Taiwan's broadest waterfall, and enjoy the surrounding scenic trails. Combine your visit with releasing sky lanterns in nearby Shifen Old Street.
About: A unique geological park featuring bizarre rock formations.
Address: No. 167-1, Gangdong Rd, Wanli District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 207
Types: geopark, natural attraction
Notes: Marvel at the otherworldly landscape of mushroom rocks, sea candles, and the famous 'Queen's Head' sculpture, shaped by wind and sea erosion. Go early to beat the crowds and harsh midday sun.
About: A volcanic national park with hot springs and lush landscapes.
Address: Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan
Types: national park, hot springs
Notes: Escape the city to explore hiking trails, volcanic fumaroles, hot springs, and seasonal flower blooms in this accessible national park. Visit during cherry blossom season in spring for a spectacular display.
About: A charming riverside promenade with food stalls and shops.
Address: Tamsui District, New Taipei City, Taiwan
Types: old street, riverside
Notes: Enjoy fresh seafood, traditional snacks like A-Gei, and browse souvenir shops along the scenic Tamsui River. Stay until sunset for picturesque views over the water.
About: A historic area renowned for its natural hot springs.
Address: Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan
Types: hot springs, spa
Notes: Relax and rejuvenate in the mineral-rich waters of Beitou's various public and private hot springs, surrounded by a tranquil, green environment. Visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum to learn about its history.
About: Taiwan's largest lake, offering stunning natural beauty.
Address: Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan 555
Types: lake, scenic area
Notes: Enjoy boat rides, cycling around the lake, or visiting cultural sites like Wenwu Temple and Ci'en Pagoda, all set against a backdrop of emerald mountains. Rent a bike to explore the world-renowned cycling paths.
About: Famous for its misty mountain landscapes, sunrise, and tea plantations.
Address: Alishan Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan
Types: national scenic area, mountains
Notes: Experience breathtaking sunrises over a sea of clouds, ancient cypress forests, and the iconic Alishan Forest Railway. Book accommodation and train tickets well in advance, especially for sunrise tours.
About: Architecturally unique opera house.
Address: No. 101, Section 2, Huilai Rd, Xitun District, Taichung City, Taiwan 407
Types: theater, architecture
Notes: An architectural marvel designed by Toyo Ito, known for its unique "cave" or "sound cave" interior, offering a stunning backdrop for photos. Catch a performance if you can.
About: A well-preserved historic street showcasing traditional Taiwanese architecture.
Address: Lukang Township, Changhua County, Taiwan
Types: old street, historic town
Notes: Step back in time as you stroll along the red-bricked alleys, visit ancient temples, and sample traditional snacks and crafts in this culturally rich town. Try the local ox-tongue pastries.
About: Historic building, now elaborate dessert shop.
Address: No. 20, Zhongshan Rd, Central District, Taichung City, Taiwan 400
Types: dessert shop, historic building
Notes: A former ophthalmology clinic transformed into a stunning dessert shop in Taichung, famous for its elaborate ice cream sundaes and vintage library-like interior. Its grand, dark wood aesthetic is incredibly photogenic.
About: A protected wetland ecosystem popular for sunset views and birdwatching.
Address: Qingshui District, Taichung City, Taiwan
Types: wetland, nature reserve
Notes: Walk along the wooden boardwalks through this ecologically diverse wetland, home to various bird species and offering stunning reflections during sunset. Check tide times for the best photographic opportunities.
About: A colorful village painted by a veteran, now an art attraction.
Address: No. 56, Chun'an Rd, Nantun District, Taichung City, Taiwan 408
Types: art installation, village
Notes: Explore the vibrant, hand-painted houses of Rainbow Village, a whimsical art creation by 'Rainbow Grandpa' Huang Yung-Fu. Arrive early to capture photos without too many people.
About: Mountain range with stunning views.
Address: Ren'ai Township, Nantou County, Taiwan 546
Types: mountain, scenic area
Notes: A majestic mountain range offering spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas above the clouds, often dusted with snow in winter. Don't miss the dramatic "sea of clouds" phenomenon.
About: Hualien's largest inland lake.
Address: Shoufeng Township, Hualien County, Taiwan 974
Types: lake, park
Notes: The largest inland lake in Hualien, offering serene boating, cycling paths around its perimeter, and picturesque mountain reflections. Rent a paddleboat for a relaxed afternoon.
About: A stunning marble gorge with dramatic cliffs and turquoise rivers.
Address: Xiulin Township, Hualien County, Taiwan
Types: national park, gorge
Notes: Hike through awe-inspiring marble canyons, marvel at the Qingshui Cliffs, and explore various trails and tunnels like Swallow Grotto. Check for trail closures before visiting, especially after heavy rains.
About: Spectacular coastal cliffs plunging into the Pacific Ocean.
Address: Xiulin Township, Hualien County, Taiwan
Types: cliff, scenic overlook
Notes: Gaze upon the majestic Qingshui Cliffs, where towering marble mountains meet the deep blue Pacific Ocean, offering one of Taiwan's most iconic coastal views. Stop at the viewing platform for the best photos.
About: A picturesque pebble beach offering panoramic ocean views.
Address: Xincheng Township, Hualien County, Taiwan
Types: beach, scenic area
Notes: Enjoy the soothing sound of waves on this crescent-shaped pebble beach, popular for cycling, photography, and admiring the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. Remember to bring sturdy shoes for walking on the pebbles.
About: A lush valley known for rice paddies, hot springs, and indigenous culture.
Address: Hualien & Taitung Counties, Taiwan
Types: national scenic area, valley
Notes: Discover a diverse landscape of green rice fields, hot springs, tea farms, and charming indigenous villages nestled between the Central Mountain Range and the Coastal Mountain Range. Rent a scooter or bicycle to explore at your own pace.
About: An offshore island connected by an iconic footbridge.
Address: Chenggong Township, Taitung County, Taiwan
Types: island, scenic bridge
Notes: Walk across the distinctive eight-arch bridge to Sanxiantai Island, explore its unique rock formations, and enjoy the rugged coastal scenery. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven terrain.
About: A sprawling Buddhist complex with a colossal Buddha statue.
Address: No. 1, Tongling Rd, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 84049
Types: museum, temple
Notes: Discover the grandeur of this modern Buddhist center, home to the world's largest seated bronze Buddha and numerous halls housing Buddhist relics and art. Allocate at least half a day to explore the entire complex.
About: Iconic twin pagodas at Lotus Pond, known for their vibrant decorations.
Address: Liantan Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 813
Types: pagoda, temple
Notes: Enter through the dragon's mouth and exit through the tiger's to change your fortune at these colorful, seven-story pagodas, adorned with intricate murals. Visit at dusk for beautiful reflections on the water.
About: Taiwan's southernmost national park, famous for beaches and tropical forests.
Address: Hengchun Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan
Types: national park, beach
Notes: Enjoy pristine beaches, coral reefs perfect for snorkeling, and lush tropical forests in Taiwan's only tropical national park. Rent a scooter to explore the diverse landscapes at your leisure.
About: Historic Tainan landmark, former Dutch fort.
Address: No. 212, Section 2, Minzu Rd, West Central District, Tainan City, Taiwan 700
Types: historic site, fort
Notes: A historic landmark in Tainan, originally a Dutch fort, now an elegant complex with beautiful gardens and pavilions, offering a glimpse into Taiwan's colonial past. Its red brickwork is striking.
About: Taiwan's southernmost lighthouse, offering stunning coastal views.
Address: No. 90, Erwuan Rd, Hengchun Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan 946
Types: lighthouse, landmark
Notes: Visit the iconic white lighthouse, guarding the southernmost tip of Taiwan, and enjoy the dramatic cliffside scenery where the Pacific Ocean meets the Taiwan Strait. Arrive early for a peaceful sunrise experience.
About: A historic Dutch fort, a key landmark in Tainan's history.
Address: No. 82, Guosheng Rd, Anping District, Tainan City, Taiwan 708
Types: historic fort, museum
Notes: Explore the ruins and reconstructed sections of this 17th-century Dutch fort, offering insights into Taiwan's colonial past and panoramic views of the Anping district. Read the informational plaques for historical context.
About: First Confucius Temple in Taiwan.
Address: No. 2, Nanmen Rd, West Central District, Tainan City, Taiwan 700
Types: temple, historic site
Notes: The first Confucius Temple built in Taiwan, established in 1665, offering a serene and scholarly atmosphere amidst elegant traditional architecture. Its crimson walls are particularly striking.
About: A private museum with a vast collection of Western art and natural history.
Address: No. 66, Section 2, Wenhua Rd, Rende District, Tainan City, Taiwan 717
Types: museum, art museum
Notes: Admire the impressive European-style architecture and explore diverse collections, including Western art, musical instruments, weaponry, and natural history specimens. Book tickets online in advance to secure your entry.
About: An island archipelago known for its military history and Fujian-style architecture.
Address: Jincheng Township, Kinmen County, Taiwan
Types: national park, historic site
Notes: Explore underground tunnels, battle sites, and traditional villages, offering a unique glimpse into Taiwan's military past and cultural heritage. Rent a scooter to explore the islands effectively.
About: An archipelago famous for its basalt columns, clear waters, and traditional houses.
Address: Magong City, Penghu County, Taiwan
Types: national scenic area, island
Notes: Discover stunning geological formations, enjoy pristine beaches, and explore charming fishing villages and ancient temples across these beautiful islands. Visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather.
About: A volcanic island known for hot springs, snorkeling, and unique rock formations.
Address: Ludao Township, Taitung County, Taiwan
Types: island, hot springs
Notes: Swim in the rare saltwater hot springs, explore diverse marine life while snorkeling or diving, and admire the dramatic coastal cliffs and rock formations. Take a ferry from Taitung, and rent a scooter upon arrival.
About: A remote, volcanic island home to the indigenous Tao people.
Address: Lanyu Township, Taitung County, Taiwan
Types: island, indigenous culture
Notes: Discover the unique culture of the Tao people, known for their traditional fishing boats and customs, amidst the island's volcanic landscapes and clear waters. Respect local customs and traditions during your visit.
About: A grand memorial and cultural center dedicated to Dr. Sun Yat-sen.
Address: No. 505, Section 4, Ren'ai Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110
Types: memorial, cultural center
Notes: Admire the impressive architecture and tranquil park surrounding this memorial, which also hosts art exhibitions and performances. Watch the changing of the guard ceremony every hour.
About: A historic night market known for its street food and temple.
Address: Raohe St, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 105
Types: night market, food market
Notes: Savor famous dishes like Fuzhou pepper buns and herbal pork ribs along this lively linear night market, starting from the ornate Ciyou Temple. Arrive early to beat the busiest dinner rush.
About: A scenic gondola ride offering views over Taipei and tea plantations.
Address: No. 8, Section 2, Xinguang Rd, Wenshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 116
Types: gondola, scenic view
Notes: Glide above lush tea plantations and enjoy panoramic cityscapes as you ascend to Maokong, a tranquil area famous for its tea houses and hiking trails. Opt for a 'crystal cabin' for a glass-bottom experience.
About: Coral island known for marine life and clear waters
Address: Liuqiu Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan
Types: island, nature_reserve
Notes: This small coral island off Taiwan's southwest coast boasts vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, and unique geological formations like Vase Rock. Keep an eye out for green sea turtles that frequent its shores.
About: Historic street with red brick architecture
Address: Minquan St, Sanxia District, New Taipei City, Taiwan
Types: historic_district, shopping_street
Notes: Wander through this beautifully preserved old street, famed for its Baroque-style red brick architecture and intricate carvings dating back to the Japanese colonial era. You can find traditional crafts and local snacks here.
About: Former mining town now home to many cats
Address: Houtong, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan
Types: village, tourist_attraction
Notes: Once a quiet mining town, Houtong has transformed into a charming 'Cat Village' where friendly felines roam freely among quaint shops and cafes. It's a delightful spot for cat lovers and photographers.
About: Indigenous culture and butterfly migration
Address: Maolin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
Types: national_scenic_area, nature_reserve
Notes: Experience the vibrant Rukai and Paiwan indigenous cultures within this scenic area, renowned for its purple crow butterfly valley, where millions of butterflies gather in winter. Waterfalls and suspension bridges add to its allure.
About: Historic mountain village with railway heritage
Address: Zhonghe, Zhuqi Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan
Types: historic_district, mountain_village
Notes: Nestled in the mountains near Alishan, Fenchihu offers a charming glimpse into Taiwan's logging past with its historic railway station and preserved old street. Don't miss sampling its famous railway bento boxes.
About: Secluded hot spring village in the mountains
Address: Xinyi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan
Types: hot_spring, village
Notes: Escape to this tranquil hot spring village nestled deep in the mountains, offering soothing natural thermal waters and stunning views of the surrounding peaks. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying nature's serenity.