The Best Places to Visit in Taiwan

With dynamic night markets jam-packed with delectable street food, gorgeous beaches, and soaring mountains, Taiwan offers an abundance of experiences in a compact space. Just 395km (245 miles) from top to bottom, travelers will find futuristic cities, historic temples, and stunning surf breaks, all easily accessible via affordable high-speed rail. Here are some of the must-visit locations.

1. Sun Moon Lake

Best Place to Bike

Located in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is celebrated for hiking, boating, romantic walks, and countryside temples. It is also famous for its biking paths, frequently recognized among the world’s most scenic routes. One notable option is the Shuishang Bikeway. This 1300ft-long path hugs the lake’s perimeter, offering a sensation of floating on water.

2. Beitou, Taipei

Best Place for Hot Springs

While approximately 130 hot springs dot this volcanic island, locals in Taipei prefer Beitou hot springs for their accessibility. Just a 30-minute train ride from the city center, visitors can luxuriate in geothermal heat. Enveloped in sulfur mist, the area is home to hotels equipped with bathtubs filled with hot water, public baths, and a vibrant culture focused on hot springs.

Planning Tip: Don’t miss Thermal Valley, also known as Hell Valley, which features one of only two green sulfur hot springs globally. After renovations in July 2022, it now boasts improved accessibility and additional facilities.

3. Taroko National Park

Best Place to Chase Waterfalls

Visit this renowned national park for its stunning 19km (12-mile) canyon, Taroko Gorge, featuring majestic marble cliffs shaped through centuries by the Liwu River. Approximately 145km (90 miles) southeast of Taipei, the gorge offers various hikes suitable for all levels, providing plenty of opportunities to witness an array of magnificent waterfalls.

The Yindai, Baiyang, and Lushui waterfalls are must-see attractions. Intermediate hikers might enjoy the 4km round trip (2.6 miles) Baiyang Waterfall Trail, with its dramatic tunnels and the Shuiliandong Water Curtain. Don’t forget to capture photos at the Eternal Spring Shrine, a picturesque memorial surrounded by nature.

4. Jinzun

Best Surf Spot

Situated in Taitung County, Jinzun boasts Taiwan’s longest coastline, extending approximately 175km (109 miles). This quaint fishing village, just a 40-minute drive from Taitung, hosts the Taiwan Open of Surfing. Surfing conditions are favorable year-round, but autumn and winter yield the best waves due to typhoons. Jinzun is perfect for surfers looking to avoid crowds. Alternatively, you can fish or bask in the sun on the sandy shores.

5. Kaohsiung

Best Place to Temple Hop

Taiwan’s second-largest city teems with life and is often hailed as one of the best places to reside on the island due to its convenience and safety. Despite its bustling streets, Kaohsiung offers peaceful retreats in its parks, pagodas, and temples. One highlight is Lotus Pond, where you can explore over 20 temples. Enter through the Dragon pagoda and exit through the Tiger pagoda for a charming experience.

Also, visit the Kaohsiung Confucius Temple, the largest of its kind in Taiwan, styled in an ancient Song Dynasty architectural design. After visiting temples, enjoy a romantic stroll along the Love River and indulge in delicious street food at Rueifong Night Market.

6. Yilan

Best Place for Quiet

This serene haven for nature enthusiasts is located on Taiwan’s northeast coast. Here, mountains seamlessly merge with the sea, featuring a mix of cold and hot springs, whale watching, scenic hikes, and black sand beaches. Notable attractions include the Hsuehshan Tunnel, connecting Taipei to Yilan in just 50 minutes, and the Divine Trees Garden at MaKau Ecological Park, home to ancient Taiwan red cypress trees.

Planning Tip: Explore the world’s first quiet trail, the Cuifeng Lake Circular Trail, accredited by Quiet Parks International (QPI). This 7.4km round trip (4.6 miles) hiking path is set at elevations between 1890-1980m (6200-6500ft), offering a unique tranquil experience.

7. Ximen District, Taipei

Best Place for LGBTIQ+ Travelers

Taiwan stands out as one of Asia’s most progressive countries for LGBTIQ+ rights, having hosted the region’s largest Pride parade and legalizing same-sex marriage. The Ximen district in Taipei is famous for its vibrant gay scene, centered around the historic Red House Theatre, built in 1908. This area is filled with a plethora of gay bars, saunas, restaurants, and lively public spaces.

Planning Tip: Ximen is also a lively shopping district, perfect for people-watching and soaking up the trendy atmosphere. Be sure to keep an eye out for cosplayers, street dancers, and various events throughout the year.

8. Keelung

Best Place for Fresh Seafood

This port city, located approximately 30km (19 miles) north of Taipei, is renowned for its fresh seafood. The Keelung Night Market offers an excellent opportunity to sample a variety of local dishes, from butter crabs to oyster omelets. Try the local delicacy of chikuwa, a popular charcoal-grilled fishcake, nestled within the vibrant food market.

For late-night foodies, the Kanziding Fish Market, open from 10pm to 6am, offers an immersive experience with a fantastic selection of seafood.

9. Penghu

Best Place to Island Hop

The southwestern Penghu archipelago is a beloved holiday destination, cherished for its pristine beaches, striking basalt columns, and vibrant coral reefs. Accessible from Taipei via a short flight, visitors usually start in Magong City, which offers plenty of exploration options, including the Tianhou Temple and local specialties like brown sugar cake and peanut candy.

Planning Tip: Consider joining an island-hopping tour with options ranging from half-day to multi-day excursions. History enthusiasts may enjoy Wang-an island’s Zhongshe Village, while sunseekers will find stunning beaches on Jibei Island.

10. Green Island

Best Place to Be Underwater

Green Island attracts snorkelers, freedivers, and scuba divers drawn to its vibrant underwater life, featuring countless species of coral and fish. Located southeast of Taitung, this volcanic island is a prime diving destination, offering numerous shore and boat dive options. For those who prefer to stay above water, enjoy breathtaking views from the Lyudao Lighthouse or relax in the Zhaori Hot Spring.