Taiwan is an enchanting island nation that is just waiting to be discovered. Nestled off the southeastern coast of Asia, Taiwan boasts a myriad of breathtaking landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and tantalizing culinary delights that will leave you spellbound. Embark on a journey like no other as we unveil the treasures of this hidden gem.
Let Nature Take Center Stage
From lush mountains to idyllic beaches, Taiwan is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Hike through the mesmerizing Alishan National Scenic Area, where misty tea plantations and ancient forests transport you to a fairytale realm. Chase the sunrise at Yangmingshan National Park, a paradise of hot springs, cherry blossoms, and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Dare to explore Taiwan’s dramatic coastline at the Taroko Gorge National Park, where marble-walled canyons and turquoise rivers weave through verdant forests. For the beach lovers, Kenting National Park beckons with its sun-kissed shores, vibrant coral reefs, and exhilarating water sports.
Discover a Heritage Like Nowhere Else
Taiwan’s vibrant culture is a tapestry of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences. Wander through the bustling night markets, where the aroma of delicacies fills the air and local artisans showcase their crafts. Immerse yourself in the ancient temples that grace the streets, a testament to the island’s spiritual heritage.
Don’t miss the electrifying atmosphere of Taiwan’s festivals, from the dazzling lantern festival to the thunderous dragon boat races. Be amazed by the intricate art of Taiwanese puppetry and the graceful moves of traditional dances that narrate captivating stories of old.
Abandon Your Notions of Contemporary
Taiwan’s modern cities blend the old and the new, offering an exhilarating urban experience. The vibrant capital, Taipei, entices with its iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper, bustling night markets, and picturesque skyline views from Elephant Mountain.
Discover the historical charm of Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, with its well-preserved temples, ancient forts, and delicious street food. In Kaohsiung, be captivated by the artistic spirit reflected in the captivating Formosa Boulevard Dome and the lively Pier-2 Art Center.
Live to Eat
Prepare your taste buds for a gastronomic adventure in Taiwan. Delight in the infamous street food scene, where you can indulge in mouthwatering dishes like stinky tofu, bubble tea, and Taiwanese sausage.
A list of famous dishes can only scratch the surface of Taiwan’s culinary delights. Savor the diverse flavors of Taiwanese cuisine, influenced by Fujian, Hakka, and aboriginal traditions.
Top 5
Food and Drink
Taiwan is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, with a wide array of delicious dishes to tantalize your taste buds.
Beef Noodle Soup: Taiwanese Beef Noodles is a hearty and comforting dish. Tender braised beef, served in a rich and flavorful broth, accompanied by chewy noodles, and garnished with green onions and pickled mustard greens, this dish is a symbol of Taiwanese culinary excellence.
Bubble Tea: Bubble Tea has become a global sensation. It features a delightful combination of sweet milk tea or fruit tea, chewy tapioca pearls, and sometimes other toppings like jelly or pudding. Bubble Tea is a refreshing and fun drink loved by people of all ages.
Stinky Tofu: Despite its pungent smell, Stinky Tofu is an acquired taste that many locals and adventurous travelers adore. This fermented tofu is deep-fried to crispy perfection, with a soft and flavorful interior. Served with pickled cabbage and a tangy sauce, Stinky Tofu is a unique and iconic Taiwanese street food.
Oyster Omlette: Oyster Omelette is a popular and flavorful dish found in Taiwanese night markets. It consists of a fluffy egg omelette mixed with fresh oysters and sometimes other ingredients like sweet potato starch, topped with a savory and slightly sweet sauce.
Gua Bao: Gua Bao is a delightful snack, featuring tender and succulent braised pork belly served in a steamed bun. The pork is accompanied by pickled mustard greens, crushed peanuts, cilantro, and a sprinkling of sugar, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Nature
Taiwan’s diverse landscapes offer a myriad of natural wonders for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Taroko Gorge: Located in Taroko National Park, Taroko Gorge is a mesmerizing natural wonder characterized by its marble-walled canyons, emerald rivers, and lush vegetation. The Taroko Gorge offers numerous hiking trails, suspension bridges, and breathtaking viewpoints, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Alishan National Scenic Area: Alishan is a mountainous region known for its stunning scenery, vast tea plantations, and ancient forests. Visitors can take a scenic train ride to the mountaintop to witness the iconic sunrise over a sea of clouds, an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe.
Sun Moon Lake: Nestled in the central part of Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is the largest lake in the country and a picturesque destination. Surrounded by lush mountains, the lake features two distinct sections resembling the sun and the moon. Visitors can take boat cruises, explore scenic hiking trails, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of this beautiful lake.
Yangmingshan National Park: Located near Taipei, Yangmingshan is a volcanic national park offering a diverse range of landscapes, including hot springs, fumaroles, sulfur deposits, and lush forests. The park’s picturesque scenery makes it a popular destination for day trips and nature walks.
Kenting National Park: Situated in the southernmost part of Taiwan, Kenting National Park is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. The park offers various outdoor activities such as snorkeling, surfing, and hiking, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
Sites
Taiwan boasts a rich history and a wealth of well-preserved historic sites that offer a glimpse into its cultural heritage.
National Palace Museum: Located in Taipei, the National Palace Museum houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of Chinese art and artifacts. Its impressive collection includes ancient Chinese paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and other precious artifacts spanning over 7,000 years of history.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: Situated in the heart of Taipei, this grand memorial hall was built in honor of Chiang Kai-shek, the former President of the Republic of China. The hall features a majestic white structure, surrounded by beautiful gardens, and hosts regular ceremonies that showcase Taiwan’s political history.
Fort Zeelandia (Anping Fort): Located in Tainan, Fort Zeelandia is a historic Dutch fortress that dates back to the 17th century. It was once a crucial military stronghold during the Dutch colonial period and provides insights into Taiwan’s early interactions with European powers.
Tainan Confucius Temple: Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, is home to the Tainan Confucius Temple, built in 1665. This beautifully preserved temple is a significant cultural landmark, dedicated to Confucius, the revered Chinese philosopher.
Longshan Temple: Situated in Taipei, Longshan Temple is one of Taiwan’s oldest and most iconic temples, dating back to the 18th century. It is a living testament to Taiwan’s religious traditions and serves as a spiritual center for locals and visitors alike.
Cities
Taiwan offers a diverse array of cities and towns that cater to various interests, from bustling urban centers to charming historic towns.
Taipei: The vibrant capital of Taiwan, Taipei, is a modern metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Explore iconic landmarks like Taipei 101, visit the National Palace Museum, stroll through bustling night markets, and indulge in a wide array of culinary delights. Taipei’s lively atmosphere and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination.
Tainan: As Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan boasts a wealth of historical and cultural treasures. Delve into its well-preserved temples, ancient forts, and traditional markets. Tainan’s laid-back charm and culinary delights, including famous local snacks, offer a glimpse into Taiwan’s cultural heritage.
Kaohsiung: Taiwan’s second-largest city, Kaohsiung, is a modern urban hub with a unique maritime vibe. Enjoy a stroll along the Love River, visit the Pier-2 Art Center for creative inspiration, and marvel at the stunning Formosa Boulevard Dome. Kaohsiung’s lively arts scene and modern landmarks make it an exciting destination for travelers.
Hualien: Nestled on Taiwan’s eastern coast, Hualien offers access to the breathtaking Taroko Gorge National Park. The town’s proximity to stunning natural landscapes, like Qingshui Cliffs and Marble Bay, makes it an ideal base for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Jiufen: This picturesque mountain town is a treasure trove of charm and nostalgia. Wander through its narrow alleys, lined with traditional tea houses and artisan shops. The stunning views of the ocean and surrounding hills make Jiufen a popular destination for day trips from Taipei.
Travel
Taiwan offers Visa-Free entry to 65 countries including the United States, Canada, and The United Kingdom. please visit the Bureau of Consular Affairs Website for a list of eligible countries.
All but 12 visa-free countries are eligible for up to 90 days without a visa. Additional restrictions may apply. Please see the Bureau of Consular Affairs Website for more information on restrictions and visa-free durations.
Visitors with birthplaces listed as Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, the People’s Republic of China, Syria and Yemen who hold passports from Eswatini, Belize, Nauru, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and Tuvalu are ineligible for visa-free entry.
U.S. and Japanese visitors must have a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay. All other visitors must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months at the date of entry.
As of July 31, 2022: Russia’s trial program has been suspended and is under review.
Climate
Taiwan is a subtropical island with a tropical climate at it’s southern tip. It has long summers with intense heat and humidity. Winter is short and mild, with snowfall in the mountains.
Taiwan is subject to natural such as Tsunamis, earthquakes, and typhoons.
Landscape
Taiwan is comprised largely of mountains with several peaks over 3,500 ft (~10,600 m), making the the world’s 4th highest island. This is largely due to the massive fault block in Taiwan which remains active and tilts toward the left, resulting in many earthquakes on the western side of the island. Most of the mountains are on the Eastern side of the main island.
A majority of the population live on the west side of the island, where rolling plains and flat lands provide more level grounds for buildings and roads.
Taiwan has a large number of endemic (localized) species, especially in wild birds and fauna. In addition, several other unique animals can be found across the main island, including several endangered species such as the Formosan black bear, the Formosa sika deer, and the Formosan landlocked salmon.
