5 Unique Places to Visit in Taiwan

Stunning panoramic view of Chiayi's mountains at sunrise, showcasing the region's natural beauty.

So youโ€™re planning a trip to Taiwan? Well, you've come to the right place!

Even though I didn't grow up in Taiwan, I lived there for 2 years during elementary school and have visited at least once a year since then. Every time I return, I notice significant changes throughout the country, and it's amazing to see how much Taiwan has developed.

When most people think of Taiwan, they automatically think of Taipei and the iconic Taipei 101 building, which is great. However, there's so much more to Taiwan than just Taipei.

In this blog post, I'll guide you through some of my favorite destinations outside of Taipei, showcasing the hidden gems and unique experiences each city has to offer.

โŠนหš. โ™ก ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ.หšโ‚Š๐ŸฅŸ โ‹†๐Ÿง‹หš๏ฝกโ‹†๐Ÿฅข

table of contents

โœถ Taipei ่‡บๅŒ—

โœถ Taichung ่‡บไธญ

โœถ Changhua County ๅฝฐๅŒ–็ธฃ

โœถ Nantou County ๅ—ๆŠ•็ธฃ

โœถ Chiayi County ๅ˜‰็พฉ็ธฃ

โŠนหš. โ™ก ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ.หšโ‚Š๐ŸฅŸ โ‹†๐Ÿง‹หš๏ฝกโ‹†๐Ÿฅข

Taipei

่‡บๅŒ—

Must-visit in Taipei

Taipei 101 illuminated at night, one of Taiwan's iconic landmarks and a must-visit attraction.

Taipei 101

A must-visit for panoramic city views of Taipei!

When you visit Taipei, be sure to check out the amazing structure of Taipei 101 by going inside the building and up to the top.

You'll need to purchase tickets to go up, and there are different ticket options depending on how high you want to go.

You can also read more details about Taipei 101 in my blog post.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a historic landmark in Taipei with stunning architecture.

Chiang Kai Shek Memorial

Explore the history of Taiwan and admire its stunning Chinese architecture.

Despite the controversial history surrounding Chiang Kai Shek, he played a significant role in shaping Taiwan as it is today.

For more in-depth information, you can read my blog post.

Peaceful botanical garden in Taipei, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Taipei Botanical Garden

Discover a peaceful oasis with over 2,000 plant species.

This is one of the most beautiful gardens in Taipei, with a rich history dating back to the Japanese colonization of Taiwan in 1826.

The garden was previously used by high-ranking visitors during the Qing Dynasty.

Today, it serves as a research site for herbologists and scientists studying the over 2000 plants in the garden.

For more information, you can read my blog post.

ใ€ฐ SUGGESTED TOURS

TAIPEI HIGHLIGHT ATTRACTIONS WALKING TOUR

If you have an interest in diving deeper into the history of Taiwan, I suggest booking a walking tour. This tour will cover all of Taipeiโ€™s iconic landmarks, parks, and local food such as boba! ๐Ÿง‹ It's a personalized private tour, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. The duration of the tour is 3 hours.

โŸข You can book your tour here.

TAIPEI PRIVATE DAY TOUR

This is an 8-hour private tour around Taipei, visiting all the iconic spots. You will have a personal driver guide at your disposal throughout the day, so you wonโ€™t have to worry about transportation.

Additionally, if you want to explore Taipei right after arriving at Taoyuan Airport (TPE), your driver can pick you up from the airport, so you can have a hassle-free transportation experience.

โŸข You can book your tour here.

TAIPEI PRIVATE NIGHT TOUR

While New York is known as the city that never sleeps, Taipei also boasts a vibrant nightlife. Taipei is renowned for its lively and bustling energy at night, with numerous attractions such as night markets and illuminated monuments. This 4-hour tour offers the opportunity to experience the beauty of Taipei's iconic spots at night.

โŸข You can book your tour here.

Local cuisine in Taipei

Delicious street food at Ningxia Night Market, including shark fin soup and pork over rice.

Ningxia Night Market

If youโ€™re craving traditional Taiwanese street food, you have to visit Ningxia Night Market.

This night market has some of the best local restaurants selling mouthwatering Taiwanese food such as Pork over Rice or Shark Fin Soup.

After eating, you can also play some traditional Taiwanese games.

For more info, you can read my blog post.

Panoramic view of Taipei from MiraWan restaurant, a popular dining spot with stunning city views.

MiraWan

If you love a unique dining experience with city views, you definitely have to visit MiraWan!

This spot is stunning, and I recommend getting dinner here!

Reservations arenโ€™t required but are highly suggested, especially during Taiwanese holidays.

For more info, read my blog post here.

ใ€ฐ SUGGESTED TOURS

FLAVORS OF TAIPEI TOUR

Calling all the foodies out there who want to dive deeper into local Taiwanese cuisine! You'll get to experience the best of Taiwanese food, such as tanghulu and boba tea, and also have the option to go shopping and visit iconic landmarks in Taipei. This is a 6-hour tour, but it can also be customized to your preferences!

โŸข You can book your tour here.

โŠนหš. โ™ก ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ.หšโ‚Š๐ŸฅŸ โ‹†๐Ÿง‹หš๏ฝกโ‹†๐Ÿฅข

Taichung

่‡บไธญ

Must-visit in Taichung

Lavender fields at Lavender Cottage, a picturesque destination in Taichung.

Lavender Cottage

Escape to the mountains and enjoy the beautiful flowers at Lavender Cottage.

Even when lavender is not in season, you can still experience the beauty of the planted flowers.

Take a leisurely walk and immerse yourself in nature.

If you feel hungry, there's a cafe inside Lavender Cottage offering delightful treats with lavender flavors.

For more information about Lavender Cottage, you can read my blog post here.

Modern architecture of the National Taichung Theater, a cultural landmark.

National Taichung Theater

If youโ€™re an architecture lover, you definitely have to explore the stunning architectural design of this theater.

Inside, you can not only watch different types of performances but also visit cute shops and eat at different cafes.

For more information, you can read my blog post here.

Scenic Gaomei Wetlands, perfect for nature walks and birdwatching.

Gaomei Wetlands

Explore this scenic wetland and enjoy stunning sunset views.

For the best experience, I recommend visiting Gaomei Wetlands before the sun sets.

You can rent YouBikes and bike around the area.

For more details, you can read my blog post here.

Interior view of Miyahara, a popular dessert shop and historical landmark.

Miyahara

Discover this historical building turned dessert shop and fall in love with delicious treats.

Many people are unaware that Miyahara used to be an eye clinic owned by a man named Miyahara during the Japanese colonization.

The building's brick exterior still remains from that era!

Now, you can shop for dessert souvenirs, enjoy their famous ice cream and boba, or dine on the second floor (reservations are highly recommended).

For more information, you can read my blog post.

Melinda standing on the Guguan Suspension Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Guguan

Located in the mountains, Guguan is a scenic neighborhood known for its stunning natural hot springs.

If youโ€™re looking for a place to relax and soak in natural hot springs, I highly recommend visiting Guguan!

For more information, view my Guguan Travel Guide.

ใ€ฐ SUGGESTED TOURS

TAICHUNG WALKING TOUR

If you're in Taichung, I recommend booking a walking tour with a local guide. This tour covers the best spots in Taichung, including the National Taichung Theater, Rainbow Village, Miyahara for their iconic ice cream, Fengjia Night Market, Taichung Park, and the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts.

You can customize the tour to include any other spots you'd like to visit. Since this is a walking tour, you'll be using local transportation, which, I believe is the best way to experience Taichung.

โŸข You can book your tour here

PRIVATE TOUR FROM TAIPEI

If you're in Taipei and want to visit Taichung, consider booking a private tour. You'll have a personal driver pick you up and take you to Xinshe Castle, Miyahara for ice cream, Rainbow Village, and Gaomei Wetlands. After the tour, you'll be driven back to Taipei.

โŸข You can book your tour here

Shopping in Taichung

Busy night market scene at Yizhong Street Night Market, filled with vendors and shoppers.

Yizhong Street Night Market

Yizhong Street Night Market is not just a place to eat and explore, it's also great for shopping.

There are a ton of small businesses and places to discover around the market, as well as traditional Taiwanese games.

So, when you visit the market in the evening, make sure to come with an empty stomach!

For more info, read my blog post.

Local cuisine in Taichung

ChunShuiTang, the birthplace of boba, offering delicious tea and snacks.

ChunShuiTang

If you love boba, you must visit the original ChunShuiTang shop in Taichung.

Theyโ€™ve mentioned that they invented boba milk tea in March 1987!

You can enjoy delicious Taiwanese cuisine and their iconic milk tea at ChunShuiTang.

For more info, you can read my blog post!

Traditional Taiwanese noodles with cold tofu and stir-fried vegetables at Shanghai Kung Fu Noodles.

Shanghai Kung Fu Noodles

This mouthwatering noodle spot, known only to the locals, has no English name. The owner's Chinese name for the business is "ๅŠŸๅคซไธŠๆตทๆ‰‹ๅทฅ้ญšไธธ" โ€” which Iโ€™ve translated to Shanghai Kung Fu Noodles.

If you want to experience an authentic dining experience in Taiwan, you have to visit Shanghai Kung Fu Noodles, where you can watch the owner make food for you.

For more information, you can read my blog post.

Dining at Tian Liao Farm House, surrounded by beautiful scenery and enjoying farm-to-table cuisine.

Tian Liao Farm House

I highly recommend visiting Tian Liao Farm House for an authentic dining experience.

Reservations are required.

You have the option to dine inside with AC or outside without AC.

The restaurant has its own rice plantations located right outside, providing a farm-to-table experience with incredibly fresh and delicious food!

Accommodation in Taichung

Luxurious HOSHINOYA Guguan resort with stunning mountain views and hot springs.

HOSHINOYA Guguan

HOSHINOYA Guguan is a stunning Japanese hotel located in Guguan. It is known for its natural mineral water and is a must-visit destination.

The hotel is quite large and offers the option to soak in a private hot spring in your own room or to use the public hot springs, which are separate for men and women.

I recommend visiting during the fall and winter months (November - January) for the best experience.

For more info, read my blog post.

โŠนหš. โ™ก ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ.หšโ‚Š๐ŸฅŸ โ‹†๐Ÿง‹หš๏ฝกโ‹†๐Ÿฅข

Changhua County

ๅฝฐๅŒ–็ธฃ

Must-visit in Changhua County

Historic Lukang Old Street with traditional architecture, street vendors, and lanterns.

Lukang Old Street

Step back in time at Lukang Old Street, a charming historical district filled with traditional architecture, busy street vendors, and unique shopping opportunities.

Fall in love with the rich history of Taiwan while exploring ancient temples, and traditional houses, and eating at local markets.

Don't miss the chance to try delicious Taiwanese street food and purchase unique souvenirs such as Chinese fans, games, and stationery!

For more info, you can read my blog post here.

โŠนหš. โ™ก ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ.หšโ‚Š๐ŸฅŸ โ‹†๐Ÿง‹หš๏ฝกโ‹†๐Ÿฅข

Nantou County

ๅ—ๆŠ•็ธฃ

Must-visit in Nantou

Boat tour on Sun Moon Lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.

Sun Moon Lake

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan's most iconic landmarks. With its rich historical significance and stunning natural scenery, this lake is a must-visit for any traveler.

Sun Moon Lake is the top spot I would recommend to anyone visiting Taiwan for the first time.

There are tons of street food, lots of history, and cute little shops to explore. You can ride a boat and visit different wharves, rent a bike and bike around the lake, or explore some amazing hiking trails nearby.

For more information, you can read my blog post!

Accommodation in Nantou

Hu Yue Lake View Hotel, a popular accommodation option with beautiful lake views.

Hu Yue Lake View Hotel

Located in the Ita Thao district at Sun Moon Lake, this spot is the perfect spot for first-timers visiting the area.

With stunning views of the lake from the balcony and close proximity to the wharves and the Ita Thao District for shopping and street food, this spot is the best choice, and it's also affordable!

โŠนหš. โ™ก ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ.หšโ‚Š๐ŸฅŸ โ‹†๐Ÿง‹หš๏ฝกโ‹†๐Ÿฅข

Chiayi County

ๅ˜‰็พฉ็ธฃ

Must-visit in Chiayi

Hiking trails in Alishan National Forest, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking scenery.

Alishan National Forest

A must-visit for hiking enthusiasts who love nature.

Although it requires a trip to get there, the experience is totally worth it. Alishan offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy to challenging.

For more information, you can read my blog post.

ใ€ฐ SUGGESTED TRANSPORTATION

PRIVATE TRANSFER TO/FROM CHIAYI & ALISHAN

If you're traveling from Chiayi City to Alishan, I recommend booking a one-way ride to Alishan or back to Chiayi City. Taking public transportation like the bus or Alishan Forest Railway to Alishan usually takes 3-4 hours, but with a private driver, you can make the trip in just one hour. This option is very convenient and saves a lot of time compared to figuring out where to get off at the bus stop.

โŸข Book your transportation here

Exploring the Mist Trail with tea leaves surrounding the area in Chiayi

Mist Trail

Challenge yourself with a more demanding hike that offers breathtaking views and a unique misty atmosphere.

This challenging trail is a must for avid hikers. The trail is aptly named for the misty atmosphere, perfect for growing tea leaves! Also known for their infamous โ€œSea of Cloudsโ€.

As you trek uphill, you'll be treated to beautiful views of tea plantations. The top offers breathtaking scenery of all the tea plantations below.

For more information on other Chiayi hiking trails, you can read my blog post here.

Local cuisine in Chiayi

Chaya Zoy teahouse, offering delicious tea and snacks with stunning views.

Chaya Zoy

I consider Chaya Zoy the best teahouse experience in Taiwan.

Chaya Zoy offers amazing tea and traditional afternoon snacks. The teahouse has incredible views, making it an excellent stop before your hike.

For more information, you can read my blog post here.

Sean's Restaurant in Chiayi, featuring delicious food and a cozy atmosphere.

Seanโ€™s Restaurant

Owned by Sean, this restaurant offers delicious meals prepared by Sean himself!

You may even meet his cute little cat, who will keep you company during your meal.

This spot is highly recommended, attracting international visitors. Reservations are only available through Facebook. Be sure to book your spot in advance!

For more information, you can read my blog post.

โŠนหš. โ™ก ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ.หšโ‚Š๐ŸฅŸ โ‹†๐Ÿง‹หš๏ฝกโ‹†๐Ÿฅข

check out my Taiwan vlog!

โŠนหš. โ™ก ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ.หšโ‚Š๐ŸฅŸ โ‹†๐Ÿง‹หš๏ฝกโ‹†๐Ÿฅข

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Last Updated: 11.01.2024

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