Taiwan, often dubbed the “Heart of Asia,” is a vibrant island nation that captivates travelers with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, mouth-watering cuisine, and incredibly warm hospitality. From the bustling metropolis of Taipei to serene mountain landscapes and dramatic coastlines, there’s truly something for every kind of explorer.
If you’re planning your first trip or looking to uncover more of this enchanting destination, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve scoured the latest trends and timeless favorites to bring you the BEST 10 places to visit in Taiwan, with a special focus on incredible day trips easily accessible from Taipei. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey! ๐
Taiwan Awaits: Why You’ll Fall in Love! โค๏ธ
Before we dive into the top spots, let’s talk about what makes Taiwan so special. It’s a land where ancient traditions beautifully blend with modern innovation. You can hike through breathtaking gorges in the morning, explore a historic temple in the afternoon, and then feast on street food in a bustling night market by evening. The efficient public transport, friendly locals, and delicious food scene make it an incredibly easy and rewarding country to explore.
Part 1: Taipei City Essentials โ The Urban Wonders ๐๏ธ
Taipei, the capital city, is the perfect starting point for your Taiwanese adventure. It’s a dynamic hub brimming with cultural landmarks, culinary delights, and fantastic shopping opportunities.
1. Taipei 101: Touch the Sky! ๐
- What it is: Once the world’s tallest building, Taipei 101 remains an iconic symbol of Taiwan’s modernity and architectural prowess.
- Why visit: Take the ultra-fast elevator to the observatory deck on the 89th floor for unparalleled panoramic views of the city โ especially breathtaking at sunset! Below, you’ll find a high-end shopping mall and numerous restaurants, including the famous Din Tai Fung.
- Tip: Book your observatory tickets online in advance to skip the queue! Consider visiting on a clear day for the best visibility.
- Nearest MRT: Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station.
2. Shilin Night Market: A Culinary Carnival! ๐
- What it is: Taiwan is synonymous with night markets, and Shilin is arguably the most famous and largest. It’s a sensory explosion of sights, sounds, and smells.
- Why visit: Prepare your taste buds for an incredible journey! From giant fried chicken cutlets and oyster omelets to stinky tofu and bubble tea, the food options are endless. Beyond food, you’ll find clothes, accessories, and carnival-style games.
- Tip: Go hungry, be adventurous, and don’t be afraid to try new things! It can get very crowded, especially on weekends.
- Nearest MRT: Jiantan Station or Shilin Station.
3. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: Grandeur & History ๐๏ธ
- What it is: A magnificent national monument built in memory of the former President of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-shek.
- Why visit: The sheer scale and beauty of the Hall are impressive. Explore the surrounding Liberty Square, flanked by the National Theater and National Concert Hall. Don’t miss the hourly changing of the guard ceremony, a precise and captivating display.
- Tip: Arrive a bit early for the guard ceremony to secure a good viewing spot. The exhibition halls inside offer insights into Taiwan’s history.
- Nearest MRT: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station.
4. National Palace Museum: A Treasure Trove ๐ผ๏ธ
- What it is: Home to one of the largest and finest collections of Chinese art and artifacts in the world, much of it brought from mainland China by the Kuomintang.
- Why visit: Marvel at exquisite jade carvings (like the famous Jadeite Cabbage), intricate bronze vessels, delicate ceramics, and ancient paintings. It’s a deep dive into thousands of years of Chinese history and culture.
- Tip: It’s vast, so prioritize what you want to see. Rent an audio guide for a richer experience. Allow at least 2-3 hours, or even a full day for art lovers.
- Nearest MRT: Shilin Station, then a short bus ride.
Part 2: Incredible Taipei Day Trips โ Beyond the City Limits ๐๏ธ
One of Taiwan’s greatest strengths is how easily you can escape the urban bustle and discover breathtaking natural and cultural wonders just a short journey from Taipei. These make for perfect day trips!
5. Jiufen Old Street: A Spirited Away Charm ๐ฎ
- What it is: A picturesque mountain town famous for its narrow alleyways, traditional teahouses, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s said to have inspired the world of Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away.”
- Why visit: Wander through lantern-lined streets, sample local snacks like taro balls and fish balls, and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in a historic teahouse while gazing at the misty mountains and sea. The atmosphere truly comes alive in the late afternoon/evening as the lanterns glow.
- How to get there: Take a train to Ruifang Station, then transfer to a bus (e.g., Keelung Bus 788, 827, 856). Or, join a popular organized tour that often combines Jiufen with Shifen and Yehliu.
- Tip: Weekends can be extremely crowded. Try to visit on a weekday if possible. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs.
6. Shifen Old Street & Shifen Waterfall: Lanterns & Cascades ๐๐ง
- What it is: Shifen is famous for its railway tracks that run right through the village, where visitors release sky lanterns with wishes. Nearby is the magnificent Shifen Waterfall.
- Why visit: The highlight is writing your wishes on a large sky lantern and releasing it into the sky โ a truly magical experience. Don’t forget to walk along the tracks and explore the small shops. A short walk (or taxi ride) away, you’ll find Shifen Waterfall, Taiwan’s broadest waterfall, often called “Little Niagara.”
- How to get there: Take a train to Ruifang Station, then transfer to the Pingxi Line to Shifen Station. Often combined with Jiufen on day tours.
- Tip: Be mindful of the train schedule; trains still run on the tracks! The lanterns are traditionally released in groups, so you might share one with your travel companions.
7. Yehliu Geopark: Nature’s Art Gallery ๐ฟ
- What it is: A unique geological park on Taiwan’s north coast, famous for its fascinating rock formations sculpted by erosion and weathering.
- Why visit: Marvel at bizarre and beautiful natural sculptures with descriptive names like “Queen’s Head,” “Fairy Shoe,” and “Candle Stick.” It’s like walking on another planet! The views of the ocean are also stunning.
- How to get there: Take a bus from Taipei Main Station (e.g., Kuo-Kuang Bus 1815) directly to Yehliu. Also commonly included in North Coast day tours.
- Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat. Some formations are very popular for photos, so be patient.
8. Beitou Hot Springs: Relaxation & Rejuvenation โจ๏ธ
- What it is: A tranquil district in northern Taipei renowned for its natural hot springs, offering both public and private bathing options.
- Why visit: Unwind and soak your stress away in the mineral-rich waters. Explore the Beitou Hot Spring Museum (a beautiful old bathhouse) and the scenic Thermal Valley, where steam constantly rises from the emerald-green waters.
- How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Beitou Station, then transfer to the Beitou-Xinbeitou Line.
- Tip: Remember to shower before entering any public baths. Many hotels offer private hot spring rooms if you prefer more privacy.
9. Yangmingshan National Park: Nature’s Escape โฐ๏ธ
- What it is: A lush national park just north of Taipei city, known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, hiking trails, and beautiful flower seasons.
- Why visit: Hike among the dormant volcanoes, admire the sulfurous fumaroles, and enjoy the vibrant blooms of cherry blossoms, azaleas, and calla lilies depending on the season. There are trails for all fitness levels, offering stunning city views on clear days.
- How to get there: Take a bus from various points in Taipei (e.g., Bus 260 from Taipei Main Station).
- Tip: Check the weather before you go, as it can be cooler and cloudier than in the city. Wear layers and sturdy shoes if you plan to hike.
Part 3: Taiwan’s Grandeur โ Worth the Journey! ๐๏ธ
While the previous 9 spots are easily accessible, our final recommendation takes a bit more effort but is absolutely essential for experiencing Taiwan’s epic natural beauty.
10. Taroko Gorge National Park (Hualien): A Marble Masterpiece ๐๏ธ
- What it is: Located on Taiwan’s east coast, Taroko Gorge is one of the world’s most spectacular marble canyons, carved by the Liwu River.
- Why visit: Prepare to be awestruck by sheer marble cliffs, winding tunnels, suspension bridges, and emerald-green rivers. Explore scenic spots like the Swallow Grotto, Tunnel of Nine Turns, and the Eternal Spring Shrine. It’s a hiker’s paradise with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
- How to get there: Take the High-Speed Rail (HSR) or conventional train (TRA) to Hualien. From Hualien, you can hire a taxi, take a bus, or join a guided tour to explore the park.
- Tip: Hualien is best visited as an overnight trip from Taipei due to travel time, but ambitious day trips are possible by taking early trains. Check weather and road conditions before you go, especially during typhoon season.
Essential Tips for Your Taiwan Adventure! ๐ก
To make your trip even smoother and more enjoyable, here are some practical tips:
- EasyCard: Get an EasyCard upon arrival (available at MRT stations and convenience stores). It’s indispensable for public transport (MRT, buses, some trains) and can even be used for purchases at convenience stores. ๐ณ
- Transportation: Taiwan’s public transport system is excellent. The MRT in Taipei is efficient and easy to navigate. For longer distances, the High-Speed Rail (HSR) is fast, and regular trains (TRA) connect smaller towns. ๐๐
- Food, Food, Food! Don’t be shy! Taiwan’s food culture is a highlight. Try local delicacies beyond the famous bubble tea and beef noodles. Look for busy local eateries โ that’s often a sign of good food. ๐ฅ๐๐ง
- Connectivity: Purchase a local SIM card or eSIM for easy access to Google Maps and translation apps. You can get them at the airport or convenience stores. ๐ฑ
- Cash vs. Card: While major hotels and department stores accept cards, many smaller shops, night market vendors, and local eateries prefer cash. It’s always good to have some Taiwan Dollars (NTD) on hand. ๐ต
- Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language. While many younger Taiwanese speak some English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Mandarin phrases (hello, thank you, excuse me) will go a long way! ๐
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures and less rain. Summers (June-August) are hot and humid with a chance of typhoons, while winters (December-February) are mild, though cooler in the north. โ๏ธ๐ง๏ธ
Ready to Explore the Heart of Asia? ๐น๐ผ
Taiwan is a destination that truly has it all โ towering skyscrapers, ancient temples, breathtaking national parks, and a food scene that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re soaking in the urban energy of Taipei or venturing out to its charming surrounding areas, you’re guaranteed to create unforgettable memories.
Start planning your Taiwanese adventure today, and prepare to be enchanted by this incredible island! Happy travels! โจ G