Taiwan, an island nation in East Asia, invites you to explore its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and cutting-edge technology. From the historic streets of Taipei to the scenic beauty of Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan promises a fascinating journey through tradition and modernity.

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our Taiwan travel guides. Whether immersing yourself in the vibrant night markets of Tainan or hiking through the lush trails of Taroko Gorge, Taiwan offers an array of captivating experiences. Consider at least 10-day exploration to uncover the unique flavors of each region, from bustling cities to serene natural wonders.

Explore Taiwan’s charms in different seasons – the lively lantern festivals and warm temperatures of summer, the vibrant colors of fall foliage in autumn, the mild winter climate perfect for exploring cultural sites, or the blooming cherry blossoms and pleasant spring weather. Each season unveils a distinct facet of Taiwan’s cultural richness and natural beauty.

Beyond its iconic landmarks, Taiwan’s scenic landscapes and architectural marvels provide a diverse escape. From the modern skyline of Taipei 101 to the historic streets of Jiufen, Taiwan caters to both lovers of innovation and those seeking traditional charm.

From the bustling markets of Shilin Night Market to the serene landscapes of Alishan, Taiwan promises a sensory delight. Experience the spirituality of Fo Guang Shan Monastery, visit the tea plantations of Maokong, or stroll through the art-filled streets of Tainan. Taiwan’s allure lies in its ability to offer a harmonious blend of cultural heritage, technological innovation, and natural beauty.

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Cellphone Communication

• Taiwan has an advanced mobile network with extensive coverage.
• Major carriers include Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and Far EasTone.
• SIM cards are widely available, and 4G networks are common.

Best Time to Visit

• Autumn (September to November) offers pleasant temperatures and is typhoon-free.
• Spring (March to May) is also a good time, with blooming cherry blossoms.
• Winter (December to February) is mild, especially in southern Taiwan.

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Possible travel itinerary

1-Week Travel Itinerary for Taiwan

Day 1: Arrival in Taipei

• Arrive in Taipei and check into your accommodation.
• Explore the bustling streets of Ximending, known for its shopping, street food, and lively atmosphere.
• Visit the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
• Have dinner at a local night market like Raohe.

Day 2: Taipei City Exploration

• Start your day with a visit to the National Palace Museum, home to a vast collection of Chinese artifacts and artworks.
• Explore the historic district of Dadaocheng and stroll along Dihua Street, known for its traditional shops and architecture.
• Visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Liberty Square.
• Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Tamsui River waterfront.
• End your day with a visit to the vibrant Shilin Night Market for dinner and shopping.
  

You can check more about the metro tickets here.

Day 3: Day Trip to Jiufen and Yehliu

• Take a day trip to Jiufen, a charming mountain town known for its narrow streets, tea houses, and stunning views of the coastline.
• Explore the Jiufen Old Street and try local specialties like taro balls and tea.
• Visit the Yehliu Geopark to see unique rock formations carved by the sea.
• Return to Taipei in the evening and relax at your accommodation.

Day 4: Taroko Gorge Day Trip

• Take an early morning train or bus to Hualien to visit Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan’s most spectacular natural attractions.
• Explore the Taroko National Park, hike along scenic trails, and visit highlights like the Swallow Grotto and Eternal Spring Shrine.
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the gorge.
• Return to Taipei in the evening and rest after a day of adventure.

Day 5: Tainan Day Trip

• Take a high-speed train to Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, known for its rich history, temples, and street food.
• Visit historical sites like Anping Fort, Chihkan Tower, and Koxinga Shrine.
• Explore Tainan’s bustling night markets and sample local delicacies like oyster omelets and milkfish soup.
• Return to Taipei in the evening.

Day 6: Relaxation and Cultural Exploration

• Spend the morning exploring the Beitou Hot Springs area and relax in a traditional hot spring bath.
• Visit the Taipei Fine Arts Museum or the Huashan 1914 Creative Park to explore Taiwan’s contemporary art scene.
• Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the Daan Forest Park or Xinyi District.
• In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant or try a gourmet Taiwanese cuisine experience.

Day 7: Departure

• Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time to do any last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Taipei.
• Check out of your accommodation and head to the airport for your departure flight.

2-Week Travel Itinerary for Taiwan

Days 1-7: Follow the 1-Week Itinerary as outlined above.

Day 8: Sun Moon Lake and Alishan

• Take a train or bus to Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest lake, surrounded by lush forests and scenic mountains.
• Explore the area by biking or walking along the lakeside trails.
• Visit the Wenwu Temple and Ci’en Pagoda for panoramic views of the lake.
• In the afternoon, travel to Alishan, famous for its sunrise views, ancient cypress trees, and mountain railway.
• Check into your accommodation in Alishan and relax for the evening.

Day 9: Alishan Exploration

• Wake up early to catch the sunrise at Alishan’s famous viewing platform.
• Take a scenic train ride on the Alishan Forest Railway and explore the surrounding forest trails.
• Visit the Sacred Tree and Shouzhen Temple.
• Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the quaint mountain villages of Alishan.
• Stay another night in Alishan.

Day 10: Kaohsiung City Exploration

• Travel to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, known for its vibrant culture, temples, and waterfront attractions.
• Visit the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world.
• Explore the Lotus Pond area and visit iconic landmarks like Dragon and Tiger Pagodas and Spring and Autumn Pavilions.
• Enjoy an evening stroll along Love River and dine at a riverside restaurant.

Day 11: Kenting National Park

• Travel to Kenting National Park, located at the southern tip of Taiwan, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and hiking trails.
• Spend the day exploring the park, relaxing on the beach, or snorkeling in the clear waters.
• Visit attractions like Eluanbi Lighthouse, Maobitou Cliff, and Longpan Park.
• Stay overnight in Kenting.

Day 12: Taitung and East Coast

• Take a scenic coastal drive or train ride to Taitung, stopping at attractions like the Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge and Xiaoyeliu Geological Park along the way.
• Explore Taitung’s cultural attractions, night markets, and waterfront area.
• Visit the nearby Green Island or Orchid Island if time allows.
• Stay overnight in Taitung.

Day 13: Hualien and East Rift Valley

• Travel to Hualien via the East Rift Valley, known for its picturesque scenery, hot springs, and indigenous culture.
• Visit attractions like Fuli and Guangfu Townships, Luye Gaotai, and Liyu Lake.
• Explore the Taroko National Park area if you missed it earlier in the trip.
• Stay overnight in Hualien.

Day 14: Departure

• Depending on your departure time, you may have some free time to explore Hualien further or do any last-minute shopping.
• Head to the Hualien train station or airport for your departure.

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Best apps to use while traveling in Taiwan

1. Google Maps: Google Maps is an essential navigation tool that provides detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, public transportation routes, and user reviews for restaurants, attractions, and hotels.
   
2. Taiwan Railways (TRA) and High-Speed Rail (THSR) Apps: Official apps for Taiwan’s railway systems, including the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) and Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR), offer schedules, ticket booking, and travel information for train services across the island.
   
3. Taiwan Bus Apps: Apps like BusTracker Taiwan and Taipei Bus provide real-time bus schedules, routes, and arrival times for public buses in Taiwan’s major cities, including Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung.
   
4. YouBike: YouBike is a bike-sharing system available in Taipei and other cities, allowing users to rent bicycles for short-distance travel. The YouBike app provides station maps, bike availability, and rental information.
   
5. Taipei Metro (MRT) App: The Taipei Metro app offers maps, schedules, and route planning for Taipei’s metro system, making it easy to navigate the city’s extensive subway network.
   
6. Food Delivery Apps: Popular food delivery apps like Uber Eats, Foodpanda, and Deliveroo operate in Taiwan, offering a convenient way to order from local restaurants and eateries, especially if you’re staying in or near urban areas.
   
7. Taiwan Travel Guide Apps: Apps like Taiwan Travel Guide by Triposo and Taiwan Travel Guide by Tourism Bureau, MOTC provide comprehensive travel information, including attractions, restaurants, accommodations, and offline maps for exploring Taiwan.
   
8. Currency Converter Apps: Currency converter apps like XE Currency or Currency Converter Plus help you quickly convert prices between Taiwanese New Dollars (TWD) and your home currency, making it easier to manage your travel budget.
   
9. Translation Apps: Translation apps like Google Translate or Microsoft Translator can be useful for communicating with locals, especially if you don’t speak Mandarin or Taiwanese Hokkien.
   
10. Weather Apps: Weather apps like AccuWeather or The Weather Channel provide up-to-date weather forecasts and alerts, helping you plan your outdoor activities and prepare for any changes in weather conditions during your trip to Taiwan.
    

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Taiwan’s history is rich and diverse, shaped by centuries of migration, colonization, and cultural exchange. Here’s a brief overview of the historical context of Taiwan:

1. Indigenous Peoples: Taiwan’s history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation dating as far back as 30,000 years ago. The island was originally inhabited by Austronesian indigenous peoples, who lived in harmony with the land and sea.
   
2. Colonial Period: In the 16th century, European explorers, including Portuguese and Dutch traders, arrived on the island. The Dutch established a colonial presence in the south of Taiwan, while the Spanish occupied the north. However, their control was limited, and indigenous resistance remained strong.
   
3. Qing Dynasty Rule: In the 17th century, the Qing Dynasty of China began to exert control over Taiwan, incorporating it as part of Fujian Province. Taiwan served as a strategic outpost for trade with Southeast Asia and was administered as a frontier territory.
   
4. Japanese Rule (1895-1945): Following the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan was ceded to Japan in 1895 under the Treaty of Shimonoseki. Japanese colonial rule lasted for five decades and brought significant modernization and development to the island, including improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. However, it also led to the suppression of Taiwanese identity and culture, as well as forced assimilation policies.
   
5. Post-World War II: After Japan’s defeat in World War II, Taiwan was placed under the administrative control of the Republic of China (ROC) government led by the Kuomintang (KMT) party. Under KMT rule, Taiwan experienced political repression and martial law, but also rapid economic growth and industrialization, known as the “Taiwan Miracle.”
   
6. Democratization and Economic Development: In the late 20th century, Taiwan underwent a period of democratization, with the lifting of martial law in 1987 and the first direct presidential elections in 1996. Taiwan’s transition to democracy was accompanied by continued economic growth, technological innovation, and global integration, cementing its status as one of Asia’s economic powerhouses.
   
7. Modern-Day Taiwan: Today, Taiwan is a vibrant democracy with a diverse cultural heritage and a thriving economy. It continues to navigate complex political relations with mainland China, which considers Taiwan a renegade province and has not ruled out the use of force to reunify the island with the mainland. Despite these challenges, Taiwan remains a dynamic and resilient society, with a unique blend of tradition and modernity.