Taiwan is sometimes overshadowed by other tourist destinations in Asia. However, the Ilha Formosa is a place that offers exquisite gastronomy, natural landscapes, and very dynamic cities. Without a doubt, Taiwan is an ideal paradise for lovers of nature, animals, and the environment in general. The rivers, hot springs, mountains, and much more will fascinate anyone.
On the other hand, Taiwan also offers a wide variety of activities within the city. The cultural attractions and festivals make this destination one of the most complete for any type of traveler. If you are planning to visit Taiwan but you still don’t have a list of places to visit, keep reading.
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Taroko National Park in Taiwan
As a first suggestion, we have the Taroko National Park. This is currently considered one of the main tourist attractions in Taiwan. In general, the beautiful landscapes are the result of volcanic activity and the erosion of some typhoons. Currently, this park covers 463 square miles of land and 12,000 feet of elevation at sea level. This part of Taiwan is divided by the Liwu River, which forges amazing ravines along the way.
On the other hand, Taroko is the most iconic stretch of this river and runs approximately 12 miles from shore. Today’s engineering has made visiting the Marble Canyon safer because the roads are carved out of the rock throughout the canyon. Earthquakes are frequent in Taiwan, so watch signs to protect people from falling rocks.
If you want to have one of the best experiences, we recommend entering from the main road towards the hiking trails. Later you will find a suspension bridge that the people of Taroko use to transport supplies. Also, say goodbye to your fear of heights and dare to walk all over the bridge. From the middle, you’ll get a beautiful view of the raging waters below.
Trekking and hiking opportunities abound at this point in Taiwan. So, if you are one of the adventure fans, here you will feel like in paradise. However, if you like quieter panoramas, head to the Zhuilu trail. Here you can escape the crowds and have a moment of relaxation in nature.
Taipei
Taipei is the capital of Taiwan and the entry point for visitors from other countries. Here tourists have the chance to enjoy roadside restaurants, night markets, and more. In general, the cuisine of Taiwan is very varied, however, Taipei is the best place to taste some of them. We recommend visiting the Shilin night market where you can have dinner with the local people. This food court has more than 500 stalls and many people flock to it to eat sim sum, oyster omelets, and stinky tofu.
It’s probably that now, you are wondering what stinky tofu is? Let me tell you that this dish is fried with pickled vegetables or cooked in a pot with broth. On the other hand, other options to visit in this part of Taiwan are the Gongguan Night Market and the Huaxi Street Night Market. Besides, there are shrimp restaurants where you can catch your crustaceans yourself.
Tainan in Taiwan
Tainan is the oldest city in Taiwan. Despite all the modern changes that have taken place in Taiwan, Tainan continues to discuss its historical traits. This is most noticeable in the eastern area, where narrow alleys and traditional architecture abound. Fort Zeelandia was built in 1600 and now offers great views from the historic center of Tainan.
On the other hand, the Anping Tree House is another attraction that you cannot miss. Before being abandoned, this place functioned as a salt warehouse. The Blueprint Culture & Creative Park will allow you to learn about modern Taiwanese culture. Here you will find some galleries, art studios, and varied, eclectic boutiques.
Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung is located on the southwestern coast of Taiwan. Over time, Kaohsiung has made substantial progress. These include pedestrian-oriented planning, street cafes, and public transportation. Like other destinations in this top 7, we recommend visiting the night markets. Without a doubt, these are the perfect place to taste gastronomy. Also, the island of Cijin is also another excellent stop. Here you will find seafood restaurants where they prepare food with the freshest fish.
Currently, Cijin is connected by a subway, but we recommend taking the trip by ferry. This will give you the opportunity to tour the beautiful landscapes from Kaohsiung. After arriving, go to Fort Cihou where you can appreciate one of the best cultural and artistic views of your life.
Taichung
Taichung is located on the western side of central Taiwan. Despite the fact that Taichung does not compare to Taipei, there is also a lot to go here. The Parkway corridor connects to the National Museum of Fine Arts and the National Museum of Natural Sciences. In addition, behind the last museum, you can find a beautiful botanical garden where it is possible to practice tai chi. Best of all, you can join for free.
After visiting the restaurants, museums, and more, we invite you to join an excursion around Sun Moon Lake. This place is a Taiwanese favorite for a weekend getaway and is enhanced by surrounding mountains.
Taitung County
Taitung is on the east coast of Taiwan, between the sea and the mountains. This place attracts quite a few tourists annually but in July even more. This is because you can witness Makapahay where the millet harvest is celebrated through dance, music, and more. On the other hand, the pork jelly soup is one of the most emblematic dishes of this place. This delicious dish is made with pickled vegetables and blood clots.
If you are a lover of surfing, you can go to Dulan, a city where there are many people practicing this sport. Additionally, the Dulan Sugar Factory is a venue that showcases a host of cultural performances and assorted art installations.
Green islands and orchids in Taiwan
Green Island is the perfect place for those who are in Taiwan and are looking for a place full of nature. Every year it attracts millions of tourists and local people. We invite you to immerse yourself in the hot springs by the sea and explore the interior of the island. If you want to take a walk along the coastal path, this will take you about 30 minutes. During the tour you will be able to appreciate coral reefs where snokeling is practiced. On the other hand, don’t risk so much at these points because they are a bit dangerous.
You may also be interested in the 10 surprising places to fall in love with Thailand.
