5 Unique Places to Visit in Taiwan
So you’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.
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table of contents
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Taipei
臺北
Must-visit in Taipei
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
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.
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.
〰 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 Taipei’s iconic landmarks, parks, and local food such as boba! 🧋 It's a personalized private tour, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. The duration of the tour is 3 hours.
⟢ You can book your tour here.
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 won’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.
⟢ You can book your tour here.
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.
⟢ You can book your tour here.
Local cuisine in Taipei
Ningxia Night Market
If you’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.
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 aren’t required but are highly suggested, especially during Taiwanese holidays.
For more info, read my blog post here.
〰 SUGGESTED TOURS
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!
⟢ You can book your tour here.
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Taichung
臺中
Must-visit 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.
National Taichung Theater
If you’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.
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.
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.
Guguan
Located in the mountains, Guguan is a scenic neighborhood known for its stunning natural hot springs.
If you’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.
〰 SUGGESTED TOURS
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.
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.
Shopping in Taichung
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
If you love boba, you must visit the original ChunShuiTang shop in Taichung.
They’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!
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 "功夫上海手工魚丸" — which I’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.
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
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.
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Changhua County
彰化縣
Must-visit in Changhua County
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.
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Nantou County
南投縣
Must-visit in Nantou
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
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!
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Chiayi County
嘉義縣
Must-visit in Chiayi
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.
〰 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.
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 “Sea of Clouds”.
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
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
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.
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check out my Taiwan vlog!
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Last Updated: 11.01.2024
Discover Taiwan's hidden gems with this guide to the top 5 unique places you won't find in every travel guide.
From serene mountain retreats to bustling night markets, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences.