Located to the southeast of China, the island nation of Taiwan is one of the most densely populated countries in the world and its bustling and vibrant cities are full of beautiful old temples, fantastic museums and lively night markets which offer up a stunning array of delicious cuisines. Away from its busy streets, many visitors enjoy exploring Taiwan’s incredible nature such as the beautiful Sun Moon Lake and spectacular Kinmen Island.
A bastion of democracy and human rights, Taiwan has long been at loggerheads with China which still lays claim to the country and the Taiwanese are friendly and welcoming people who proudly uphold their independence.
With such a vast array of diverse things to do, visitors to Taiwan will have their time cut out trying to fit everything into a memorable trip.
Taipei
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.
Taroko Gorge
A scenic, coastal train ride away from Taipei, Taroko National Park is a jewel among Taiwan’s natural wonders. At times, the gorge’s vertical cliffs and winding tunnels come so close together that, from a distance, they appear to meet. From the park entrance, take the Taroko Gorge Trail to the Eternal Spring Shrine. Built in memory of those who died constructing the Central Cross-Island Highway in the late 1950s, the shrine features a tranquil pavilion and waterfall. Swallow Grotto, a 0.3-mile stretch of marble and limestone west of the shrine, is one of the park’s most popular trails for its stunning views of the turquoise Liwu River and the swallows that flit in and out of the rock face. Farther west, the Tunnel of Nine Turns offers incredible views of the gorge’s white marble cliffs, winding through some of its narrowest sections.
Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s largest port. While a busy city with industrial roots, it is also home to tranquil walks and an impressive array of temples and pagodas. Visit the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas on Lotus Pond, in which larger-than-life dragon and tiger sculptures function as entrance and exit.
The nearby Spring and Autumn Pavilions are equally extravagant. Dedicated to the God of War and God of Mercy, they feature a giant, colorful sculpture of the latter riding a dragon. To complete your tour, find Taiwan’s largest Confucius Temple at the northern end of the Lotus Pond.
Taitung
Less developed than Taipei, the atmosphere of Taitung is pleasant and laid back. Situated on Taiwan’s east coast where the Eurasian and Philippine Sea tectonic plates meet, it is home to an impressive geological landscape. Head to Siaoyeliou, a veritable sculpture park of rock formations molded by sea erosion, or cross Taitung’s famous eight-arched bridge, built to resemble a dragon, to reach Sansiantai Island, a nature reserve offering exceptional views of sunrise and sunset.
Tainan
Tainan has a long and colorful history. In the 17th century, it was the operational base for the Dutch East India Company and was Taiwan’s capital during the Qing Dynasty. Highlights include the Chihkan Towers and Fort Anping, built by the Dutch in 1653. After wandering through the manicured lawns of the Chihkan Towers, be sure to pay a visit to the row of nine Qing-Dynasty stone turtles carrying tablets on their backs. At Fort Anping, stop into the museum to learn about the Dutch occupation, and for a taste of traditional Chinese culture, head to Taiwan’s oldest Confucius Temple.
Maolin National Scenic Area
Southeast of Kaohsiung is Maolin National Scenic Area, a stunning region covered in virgin forest and dotted with hot springs, waterfalls and gorges. Here, enjoy some of the island’s best hiking trails, including a former tribal warpath. Be sure to visit Purple Butterfly Valley, the overwintering site of an estimated one million Euploeini butterflies, whose wings shine a deep blue-purple in certain lights. In nearby Meinong Folk Village, marvel at traditional Hakka crafts, such as handmade paper umbrellas.
Lukang
Lukang, on Taiwan’s west coast, is rich with history and culture. Of particular note is its traditional architecture. Dating back to the Qing Dynasty, the Lungshan Temple is Lukang’s largest and features an elaborate, nail-less wooden ceiling above its outdoor stage. Lukang Tienhou Temple is similarly ornate. Meaning “Queen of Heaven” temple, Lukang Tienhou honors the deity Matsu, goddess of the sea, whose statue has darkened from years of collecting incense residue. Other sights include Nine Turns Lane, one of old Lukang’s best-known winding streets designed to withstand high winds, and the Lukang Folk Arts Museum, a Japanese-era mansion housing more than 6,000 historical items.
Sun Moon Lake
Taiwan’s largest alpine lake, Sun Moon Lake is renowned for its both natural beauty and cultural heritage. The weather is pleasant year-round, and temples and pagodas dot the surrounding countryside. Head to Chi-En Pagoda, or “Pagoda of Filial Virtue,” for outstanding views. Chiang Kai-shek, for whom Sun Moon Lake was a cherished vacation sport, erected the monument in honor of his mother. In the spring season, the trail leading up to the pagoda ignites with fireflies. A pedestrian-bike path hugs the lake’s perimeter, and cruises depart daily from it shores. Rent a rowboat or canoe for more leisurely exploration.
Taichung
During the Japanese colonial era, Taichung was an industrial center and the source of many “Made in Taiwan” products. Today, it is known today for its pleasant, dry weather and regarded today as an attractive university city. Numerous shopping malls and nightclubs appeal to the younger generation and inspire an active nightlife. Taichung is also home to notable firsts: Taiwan’s first national fine arts museum and Chun Shui Tang Teahouse, allegedly the original bubble tea shop.
National Palace Museum
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.
Yushan National Park
Another of the most beautiful national parks in Taiwan, Yushan National Park is the setting for the country’s tallest mountain along with several other picturesque peaks such as Sanqingshan.
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.
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.
