Taiwan Travel Guide (East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Taiwan

Taiwan (officially known as the Republic of China) is a small island nation located in East Asia. Despite its small size, Taiwan is a vibrant country with a rich culture and plenty of natural wonders to explore. Taiwan is also one of the most densely populated countries in the world, with a population of approximately 23 million people.

List of Places to Visit in Taiwan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Taiwan has a rich history and culture, and there are many museums and historical sites that are worth a visit. Some of the most notable ones include:

National Palace Museum: This museum houses the largest collection of ancient Chinese artifacts in the world.
Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall: Built in honor of Taiwan’s former president, this memorial hall is a popular tourist destination.
Longshan Temple: One of Taiwan’s most famous temples, Longshan Temple is a great place to experience traditional Taiwanese culture.

Natural Attractions of Taiwan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Taiwan’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws for tourists. From stunning mountain ranges to pristine beaches, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in Taiwan. Some of the most popular natural attractions include:

Sun Moon Lake: This stunning lake is located in the heart of Taiwan’s central mountain range and is a popular destination for hikers and bikers.
Alishan: Alishan is famous for its beautiful sunrise and sunset views, as well as its ancient forests and hiking trails.
Taroko Gorge: This natural wonder is home to some of the most stunning scenery in Taiwan, including soaring cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Taiwan

Taiwan is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

Yushan National Park: This park is home to Taiwan’s highest peak, Mount Yushan, and boasts some of the most stunning hiking trails in the country.
Northeast Coast Scenic Area: This area is perfect for biking, with scenic routes that run along the coast and through picturesque fishing villages.
Central Cross-Island Highway: This challenging route runs through the heart of Taiwan and offers stunning views of the island’s mountainous interior.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking, biking, and exploring Taiwan’s cultural and natural attractions, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy. Here are some of the best:

Night markets: Taiwan is famous for its bustling night markets, where visitors can sample a wide variety of delicious street food and shop for souvenirs.
Hot springs: Taiwan is home to a number of natural hot springs, many of which are popular tourist destinations.
Tea tours: Taiwan is known for its high-quality teas, and there are plenty of tea farms and tasting tours to explore.

Week-Long Itinerary for Taiwan

If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan and want to make the most of your time, here’s a sample one-week itinerary to consider:

Day 1: Explore Taipei, Taiwan’s bustling capital city
Day 2: Take a day trip to nearby Tamsui, famous for its stunning sunsets and old-world charm
Day 3: Visit the National Palace Museum and other cultural attractions in Taipei
Day 4: Hike around Sun Moon Lake or visit nearby Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
Day 5: Take a day trip to Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan’s most spectacular natural wonders
Day 6: Relax in one of Taiwan’s many hot springs or visit a tea farm for a tasting tour
Day 7: Explore Taiwan’s northeast coast, including the scenic Jiufen Old Street and the nearby Yehliu Geopark

Food and Drink Scene of Taiwan

Taiwan is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of delicious dishes to try. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Beef noodle soup: This hearty soup is a staple of Taiwanese cuisine and can be found at almost any restaurant or night market.
Bubble tea: This sweet, milky tea with tapioca pearls is one of Taiwan’s most famous exports.
Oyster omelet: This savory omelet is made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a variety of vegetables and spices.

Local Beverages

Taiwan beer: This light, refreshing beer is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Kavalan whiskey: Taiwan’s award-winning whiskey is gaining recognition on the international stage.
Fresh fruit juice: Taiwan has a wide variety of delicious fruits, and fresh fruit juice is a popular beverage choice.

Where to Stay in Taiwan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Taiwan, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some popular options include:

Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel, Taipei: This five-star hotel offers stunning views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline.
Flip Flop Hostel, Taipei: This popular hostel chain offers clean, comfortable rooms and a social atmosphere.
The Sun Hot Spring and Resort, Yilan: This luxurious resort offers private hot spring baths and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

What to Buy in Taiwan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, Taiwan has plenty to offer. Some popular choices include:

Pineapple cakes: These sweet, bite-sized cakes are a popular Taiwanese snack and make great gifts.
Tea: Taiwan is known for its high-quality tea, and there are plenty of tea stores and farms to explore.
Handmade crafts: Taiwan is home to many talented artisans, and handmade crafts such as pottery and textiles make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Taiwan

Taiwan has a unique culture and set of customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Respect for elders: Taiwan has a strong tradition of respect for elders, so be sure to show proper respect to older people.
Gift giving: It is customary to bring a gift when visiting someone’s home.
Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Taiwan, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Best Time to Visit Taiwan

The best time to visit Taiwan depends on what you want to do and see. Generally, the best time to visit is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be quite hot and humid, while winter can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Taiwan

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Taiwan:

Do:

Show respect for local customs and traditions
Eat lots of delicious Taiwanese food
Take advantage of Taiwan’s excellent transportation system

Don’t:

Be disrespectful to elders or other people in positions of authority
Be overly affectionate in public
Remove your shoes inside someone’s home without permission

Safety and Health

Taiwan is a relatively safe and healthy country to visit, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Safety in Taiwan

Be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you
Take precautions when hiking or biking on Taiwan’s mountainous terrain
Pay attention to weather warnings and typhoon alerts during the summer months

Health in Taiwan

Taiwan has a high standard of healthcare, but medical costs can be expensive for non-citizens.
Be sure to drink bottled water and avoid foods that may be contaminated.
Make sure you have adequate travel insurance before visiting Taiwan.

Getting to Taiwan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Taiwan is relatively easy, with a number of transportation options available:

Airports Near Taiwan

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport: Located just outside Taipei, this is Taiwan’s primary international airport.
Kaohsiung International Airport: Located in southern Taiwan, this airport offers international and domestic flights.
Taipei Songshan Airport: A smaller airport located in Taipei, this airport offers domestic flights as well as flights to nearby destinations in Asia.

Bus Stations Near Taiwan

Taipei Central Bus Station: Located in the heart of Taipei, this is Taiwan’s largest bus station.
Kaohsiung Bus Station: Located in downtown Kaohsiung, this is the city’s primary bus station.
Taichung Bus Station: Located in central Taiwan, this is an important transportation hub for the region.

Other Options

High-speed rail: Taiwan’s high-speed rail system is fast and efficient, with trains running between Taipei in the north and Kaohsiung in the south.
Ferry: There are a number of ferry routes that connect Taiwan to nearby destinations, including China and Japan.

How to Get Around in Taiwan

Getting around in Taiwan is relatively easy, with plenty of transportation options available:

MRT: Taipei’s metro system is clean, efficient, and easy to use.
Bus: Taiwan has an extensive bus network that connects major cities and towns.
Scooter or bike rental: Renting a scooter or bike is a popular way to explore Taiwan’s cities and countryside.

Where to Go Next from Taiwan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of East Asia, Taiwan is a great starting point. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Japan: Taiwan is just a short flight away from Tokyo, Kyoto, and other popular Japanese destinations.
Hong Kong: Hong Kong is a bustling metropolis that’s just a short flight or ferry ride away from Taiwan.
Philippines: The Philippines is a popular destination for snorkeling, beachcombing, and island hopping, and is just a short flight away from Taiwan.

Conclusion

Taiwan is a fascinating country with a rich culture, diverse natural attractions, and plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring Taipei’s bustling night markets or hiking through one of Taiwan’s many national parks, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant country.