Taiwan, also known as the “Heart of Asia”, is a small yet diverse island nation located off the coast of China. With its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, stunning landscapes, and modern cities, Taiwan has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. It offers something for every traveler – from bustling night markets to serene mountain retreats, from ancient temples to ultra-modern skyscrapers, and everything in between.
In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the top 10 destinations in Taiwan that you must visit. Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip or a longer vacation, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful country. So, let’s dive in and explore the best of Taiwan!
1. Taipei: The Vibrant Capital City
Introduction
Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan, is a bustling metropolis that offers a perfect blend of traditional and modern cultures. It is home to iconic landmarks such as the Taipei 101 Tower, which was once the tallest building in the world, and the National Palace Museum, which houses a vast collection of Chinese artifacts. But beyond the tourist attractions, Taipei is also known for its vibrant street food scene, lively night markets, and friendly locals.
Must-See Attractions
- Taipei 101: This iconic skyscraper is a must-visit attraction in Taipei. You can take an elevator to the observation deck on the 89th floor for stunning views of the city.
- National Palace Museum: If you’re interested in Chinese history and art, then you must visit this museum. It has over 700,000 ancient Chinese artifacts, making it one of the largest collections in the world.
- Shilin Night Market: No trip to Taipei is complete without visiting a night market. Shilin Night Market is one of the most famous, offering a variety of street food, local products, and entertainment.
- Longshan Temple: This historic temple is dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Guanyin. It is one of the oldest temples in Taiwan and is known for its beautiful architecture.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of accommodation options in Taipei, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. If you want to be close to the city’s main attractions, then stay in the Ximending or Zhongzheng districts. For a more local experience, consider staying in the Daan or Songshan districts.
What to Eat
Taipei is a foodie’s paradise, with a variety of delicious dishes to try. Some must-try foods include:
- Stinky tofu: You’ll either love it or hate it, but you can’t visit Taiwan without trying this infamous fermented tofu dish.
- Beef noodle soup: A staple in Taiwanese cuisine, this hearty noodle soup is perfect for a quick meal on a cold day.
- Bubble tea: Originating in Taiwan, this popular sweet tea drink with tapioca balls can be found at almost every corner in Taipei.
- Gua bao: Also known as “Taiwanese hamburgers”, these soft steamed buns filled with pork belly, pickled greens, and peanuts are a must-try street food.
2. Tainan: The Cultural Capital
Introduction
Located on the southwestern coast of Taiwan, Tainan is known as the country’s cultural capital. It was the island’s capital for over 200 years during the Qing dynasty and is home to many well-preserved historical sites, including forts, temples, and traditional houses. Tainan also has a rich culinary scene, with its own unique dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in the country.
Must-See Attractions
- Anping Fort: Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, this fort is a popular tourist attraction with its well-preserved walls and cannons.
- Chihkan Tower: Also known as Fort Provintia, this historic site was once used as a military stronghold and later served as a government office. Today, it is a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying traditional performances.
- Confucius Temple: This temple, dedicated to the Chinese philosopher Confucius, is one of the oldest in Taiwan. It is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
- Night Market: Tainan’s night markets are a must-visit, offering a variety of local street food, souvenirs, and entertainment.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of accommodation options in Tainan, from budget-friendly guesthouses to high-end hotels. Most tourists prefer to stay near the city center, where the main attractions are located. Alternatively, you can also stay in Anping district, which has a more laid-back atmosphere.
What to Eat
Tainan is renowned for its unique and delicious cuisine, influenced by different cultures over the years. Some must-try dishes include:
- Dan zai noodles: This iconic dish consists of noodles, minced pork, shrimp, and vegetables in a savory broth.
- Coffin bread: Don’t let the name fool you – this dish is a deliciously crispy deep-fried bread filled with a creamy chicken and mushroom sauce.
- Oyster omelet: A popular street food in Tainan, this dish features a fluffy omelet with fresh oysters and a sweet and sour sauce.
- Milkfish porridge: This simple but hearty dish is made with rice porridge, milkfish, and various toppings such as pickled vegetables, fried onions, and peanuts.
3. Kaohsiung: The Harbor City
Introduction
Located in the south of Taiwan, Kaohsiung is the country’s largest port city and a major industrial center. Despite its industrial background, it has transformed into a modern and livable city with a rich cultural scene. It offers a perfect mix of urban attractions, natural landscapes, and a laid-back lifestyle that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Must-See Attractions
- Lotus Pond: This picturesque lake is known for its various temples and pagodas, including the iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.
- Pier-2 Art Center: This former warehouse turned art space is a must-visit for art lovers. It features various exhibitions, installations, and street art.
- Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum: Located just outside the city, this museum is home to one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. It also offers a glimpse into Buddhist culture and history.
- Liuhe Night Market: A trip to Kaohsiung wouldn’t be complete without visiting one of its vibrant night markets. Liuhe Night Market is a popular spot for trying local delicacies and shopping for souvenirs.
Where to Stay
Kaohsiung has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Most tourists prefer to stay near the city center, where the main attractions are located. Alternatively, you can also stay near the harbor, which offers great views and a more relaxed atmosphere.
What to Eat
Kaohsiung’s diverse population has contributed to its unique cuisine, influenced by different cultures such as Hakka, Teochew, and Japanese. Some must-try dishes include:
- Oyster noodles: This dish features thick noodles in a savory soup with fresh oysters and pork intestines.
- Gongwan: Also known as rice balls, these small glutinous rice dumplings are stuffed with a variety of fillings such as pork, mushroom, or bamboo shoots.
- Guobao: These crispy pancakes filled with various meats and vegetables are a popular street food in Kaohsiung.
- Shaved ice: Perfect for a hot day, this sweet dessert is made with shaved ice, fresh fruits, red beans, and condensed milk.
4. Hualien: The Nature Lover’s Paradise
Introduction
Located on the east coast of Taiwan, Hualien is a nature lover’s dream destination. It is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country, including Taroko Gorge, a magnificent marble canyon that attracts thousands of tourists every year. Besides its natural beauty, Hualien also offers a laid-back vibe, making it the perfect escape from the city.
Must-See Attractions
- Taroko National Park: This national park is the main reason why tourists visit Hualien. It features breathtaking views of the Taroko Gorge, hiking trails, and various natural wonders.
- Qixingtan Beach: This pebble beach is famous for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a great spot for watching the sunrise.
- Farglory Ocean Park: Ideal for families, this theme park features various rides, shows, and aquariums with marine life from around the world.
- Hualien Night Market: This bustling night market offers a variety of local street food, souvenirs, and games.
Where to Stay
Hualien has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to high-end resorts. Most tourists prefer to stay near the city center, where the night market and other attractions are located. Alternatively, you can also choose to stay near the beach for a more relaxed atmosphere.
What to Eat
Hualien’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its indigenous tribes, who have been living in the area for centuries. Some must-try dishes include:
- Mochi: This glutinous rice cake is a popular dessert in Hualien and comes in various flavors such as red bean, peanut, and sesame.
- Wild boar sausage: A specialty of the indigenous Amis tribe, this sausage is made with wild boar meat and has a unique smoky flavor.
- Roast pork rice: This simple but delicious dish features tender slices of roast pork served over rice with a savory sauce.
- Grass jelly: This cooling dessert is made from a type of herb cooked into a gelatin-like substance and served with a sweet syrup.
5. Sun Moon Lake: The Scenic Retreat
Introduction
Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s most famous tourist destinations, known for its stunning scenery and serene atmosphere. Located in the center of the island, it is the largest body of water in Taiwan and is surrounded by lush mountains and forests. It offers the perfect retreat from the busy city life, with its tranquil nature and traditional culture.
Must-See Attractions
- Sun Moon Lake Ropeway: Take a cable car ride for spectacular views of the lake and its surrounding landscapes.
- Xuanzang Temple: This beautiful temple, dedicated to the famous Chinese monk Xuanzang, is located on a hilltop overlooking the lake.
- Wenwu Temple: Also known as the “Literature Warrior Temple”, this temple is dedicated to Confucius and Guan Gong and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sun Moon Lake.
- Biking and Hiking Trails: Sun Moon Lake has various trails for biking and hiking, offering opportunities to explore the stunning nature around the lake.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of accommodation options near Sun Moon Lake, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Most tourists prefer to stay near the lake for easy access to the attractions. You can also choose to stay in the nearby town of Puli, which is just a short drive away.
What to Eat
The Sun Moon Lake area is famous for its aboriginal cuisine, influenced by the Thao tribe that has been living in the region for centuries. Some must-try dishes include:
- Shaved ice: This popular dessert in Taiwan is taken to a whole new level at Sun Moon Lake, with various toppings such as taro balls, red beans, and tapioca pearls.
- Wild vegetables: The Thao tribe is known for their expertise in using wild vegetables in their dishes. Don’t miss the chance to try them in soups or stir-fries.
- Millet wine: This traditional alcoholic beverage is made from fermented millet and is a staple drink in Thao culture.
- Grilled fish: Sun Moon Lake is home to various types of freshwater fish, such as tilapia and carp, which are often grilled and served as a local delicacy.
6. Kenting: The Tropical Paradise
Introduction
Located in the southernmost tip of Taiwan, Kenting is a tropical getaway known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant nightlife. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a laid-back atmosphere during the day and a bustling party scene at night. With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and abundant marine life, Kenting is a paradise for beach lovers.
Must-See Attractions
- Kenting National Park: This national park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, diving, snorkeling, and beach hopping.
- Eluanbi Lighthouse: Located on the southernmost tip of Taiwan, this lighthouse offers a stunning view of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
- Night Market: Kenting’s night market is a popular spot for trying local street food, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying live performances.
- Chuanfan Rock: This unique rock formation, shaped like a sail, is a famous spot for taking photos and watching the sunset.
Where to Stay
Kenting has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. Most tourists prefer to stay near the main beach, where the action is. Alternatively, you can also find more secluded and peaceful accommodation options near the national park.
What to Eat
Kenting’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its tropical location, with an abundance of fresh seafood and fruits. Some must-try dishes include:
- Seafood hotpot: Perfect for sharing with a group, this hotpot features a variety of fresh seafood cooked in a flavorful broth.
- Fried squid: This popular street food in Kenting is lightly battered and fried until crispy and served with a spicy sauce on the side.
- Fruit platter: With its warm climate, Kenting produces some of the most delicious tropical fruits in Taiwan. Don’t miss the chance to try them in a colorful fruit platter.
- Pineapple cake: A popular souvenir from Kenting, these small cakes are filled with pineapple jam and make for a perfect sweet treat.
Conclusion
Taiwan may be a small country, but it offers a diverse range of destinations that cater to different types of travelers. From bustling cities to serene nature retreats, from vibrant night markets to tranquil beaches, there is something for everyone in Taiwan. We hope this guide has given you a glimpse into the top 10 destinations in Taiwan and inspired you to plan your next trip to this beautiful island nation. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the “Heart of Asia”!
