1. Taipei, Taiwan
Taiwan has many beautiful and amazing places that attract travelers. The National Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is a national monument, erected in memory of Chiang Kai-Shek. Right of the entrance, you will notice how wide the place is, with the National Concert Hall on your left, the National Theater on your right, and the Memorial Hall in the middle, at the end of the square. The entrance to the square is something impressive too.
2. Elephant Mountain
People traveling to the island should see the Taipei 101, one of the tallest buildings in the world and a top place in Taiwan. It is beautiful indeed, and you may want to visit its interior, but don’t miss the view from outside. It can be even prettier. That’s why we recommend going to the Elephant Mountain. Not only an amazing place to visit, the top of the Elephant Mountain is also perfect to get one of the best views of the city and its tallest building. The hike takes around 15-20 minutes from the bottom to the top and can be tough sometimes, but the trail and the sights you get from there worth the effort.
3. National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum of Taiwan serves as a perfect starting point for exploring Taipei’s vibrant culture. After immersing yourself in China’s past, delve into the city’s bustling markets, delectable street food scene, and modern architecture. Consider visiting nearby attractions like the Shilin Night Market or Taipei 101, a towering skyscraper offering breath-taking panoramic views.
Take a journey into China’s past as you walk through the halls of the National Palace Museum with its vast collection of almost 700,000 pieces, carefully preserved by Chinese emperors over the centuries in many cases. Admire the stunning jade paintings, marvel at the intricate calligraphy, and lose yourself in the vibrant colors of ancient paintings. See incredible pieces like a jadeite cabbage, a masterpiece of sculpture, a miniature boat carefully carved out of an olive pit, showcasing the unique skills of Chinese craftsmen.
The National Palace Museum is the perfect place to start your exploration of Taipei’s vibrant culture. Immerse yourself in China’s ancient life and explore the city’s bustling markets, exciting street food and modern architecture. Consider visiting nearby attractions like the Shilin Night Market or Taipei 101, a high-rise building that offers spectacular views.
The National Palace Museum offers a unique and unforgettable Chinese historical and artistic heritage. So, arm your curiosity and comfortable shoes to explore the grand galleries and travel back in time to the heart of Taiwan.
4. Beitou Hot Springs
Taiwan is a treasure trove of cultural experiences, delicious food and breathtaking natural beauty. But a place for relaxation and rejuvenation is hidden among its bustling urban landscapes: Beitou Hot Springs.
For centuries, Beitou Hot Springs has been a popular destination for travelers looking for a peaceful getaway. Located just outside Taipei, this geothermal wonderland offers warm summer experiences to suit any taste and budget. Whether you prefer a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) or a modern spa setting, Beitou has something for you.
Beitou Hot Springs caters to budget travelers and those looking for a luxurious experience. Beitou Public Hot Spring is a sprawling area with several pools of varying temperatures, perfect for social soaking and inexpensive. For a more private experience, many hotels and resorts in Beitou offer luxury steam baths in their offices.
Beitou Hot Springs is a perfect day trip or weekend getaway from Taipei. It is the perfect place to get away from the city centre, allowing you to escape the urban noise and soak in the peace. After relaxing and exploring the city, you will return to Taipei feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
5. Sun Moon Lake
You will find yourself in a pleasant city surrounding this beautiful lake. It’s almost mandatory you rent a good bike (and a good one, please!) and give a ride around this huge lake. Don’t worry. If your concern is where to find a place to rent your bike, the city has plenty of options. You have to check the conditions of the bike before you rent it, though. There are good prices everywhere, but sometimes the savings do not pay for your comfort and safety. The bike path is well maintained, with tons of places to eat, to take pictures, to relax, and to enjoy.
6. Alishan Sunrise
The best way to see this amazing sunrise is to get the train to the top of the mountain, in the early morning. The train is usually crowded, but it is a short trail to the top. When you go back, I recommend taking a walk down to the city instead of getting the train back. It is a comfortable walk and you don’t need to leave at the right time. People who visit there, just go to take pictures of the sunrise and forget the surroundings are beautiful too.
7. Taijiang National Park
Taijiang National Park. Established in 2009, the park offers a unique blend of coastal scenery, biodiversity and historical significance. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Taijiang National Park promises an unforgettable experience.
Taijiang National Park is a haven for birds, especially in the winter months. The park’s marshes and wetlands attract an impressive flock of migratory birds, including the park’s unofficial mascot, stunning black-fronted birders from around the world go to Taijiang to see these amazing creatures with their unique mushroom-like beaks. Keep an eye out for other feathered friends like hawks, hawks and plovers, making Taijiang a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
Taijiang National Park is more than just birding. Explore the park’s expansive mangroves, an important ecosystem teeming with life. Walk along the wooden planks and admire the intricate roots and fascinating creatures that call these frogs home. Lay on the sandy beaches and soak up the sun, or kayak through the calm waters, enjoying the park’s tranquil coastal landscape.
Taijiang National Park is full of history. Explore the remains of the old salt plantations, a testament to the region’s traditional industries. Visit the Sicao Salt Mine, a historic site that showcases the region’s rich salt production heritage. Learn about the Aboriginal people who have inhabited this land for centuries while admiring the traditional textiles woven into the fabric of the park.
8. Chimei Museum
The Chimei Museum is a private property open to the public. Its art collection is divided into western art, musical instruments, natural history, military artifacts, and antiquities. If you like musical instruments, don’t miss the Stradivarius violins collection. One of the largest collection in the world. Try to get there in the early morning and go to the front fountain (the one with the horses) to see a special sunrise.
9. Kaohsiung Lotus Pond
Also called Lotus Lake, it is a man-made pond and a popular destination in Kaohsiung. It is known for its lotus plants and also for the temples around the lake. Among those temples, we can highlight the Dragon and Tiger pagodas (you can enter inside them), and the Confucius Temple. Lotus Pond provides a tranquil haven for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts. Adorned with vibrant lotus flowers, this stunning pool is a haven for relaxation and exploration.
Enter the lotus pond to be greeted by soothing birdsong and the gentle fragrance of lotus flowers. Take a leisurely stroll along the walkways, admiring the vibrant flowers lining the water’s surface. For a different perspective, hire a rowboat and sail across the calm waters and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you want a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city or an immersive cultural experience, Kaohsiung Lotus Pond caters for everyone. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the shade of a tree. Visit nearby restaurants to enjoy local delicacies. For some fun, take a bike and explore the surrounding park.
Kaohsiung Lotus Pond is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a perfect stop on Taiwan’s itinerary. For a deeper dive into the city’s rich heritage, consider exploring nearby attractions such as the Kaohsiung History Museum. Since Kaohsiung Lotus Pond is beautiful serene and culturally sensitive, it promises to be an enjoyable experience for any visitor.
10. Love River
The Love River, which flows in the heart of Kaohsiung, Taiwan, shimmers like a ribbon of light, providing an enchanting experience for visitors seeking romance, adventure and the vibrancy of the city The history of Love River goes back centuries. Once a shallow lake, it was turned into a scenic waterway during the Japanese colonial era. Today the banks of the river are landscaped with greenery, gardens and walkways, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists Take a stroll along the Love River in Taiwan and soak in the warm weather.
Check out the contemporary skyscrapers and historic landmarks that line the beach, creating a unique mix of old and new. Relax in one of the charming cafes and enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the scenery. In the evening, the river comes alive with spectacular lights, giving you a truly magical experience. Love River offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty, urban beauty and cultural experiences. So, pack your hiking boots, camera to capture the spectacular views, and get ready to fall in love with Kaohsiung’s most beautiful waterways.