Generated with sparks and insights from 13 sources
Summary
This comprehensive guide to Taiwan offers a detailed itinerary for exploring the island's vibrant cities, breathtaking natural landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. From the bustling streets of Taipei to the serene beauty of Taroko Gorge, travelers can immerse themselves in the diverse attractions Taiwan has to offer. Highlights include experiencing the urban charm of Taipei, the scenic beauty of Alishan, and the coastal allure of Kenting, making it a perfect destination for adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
๐๏ธ Day 1: Exploring Taipei
Begin your Taiwan adventure in Taipei, exploring iconic sights like Taipei 101, Maokong Gondola, and the vibrant Shilin Night Market.
<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> Taipei 101\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (7.2 km, \ud83d\ude98 10 min, \ud83d\ude87 39 min)\n>\n> Maokong Gondola\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (16.0 km, \ud83d\ude98 21 min, \ud83d\ude87 1 hr 18)\n>\n> Shilin Night Market\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>
๐ข Taipei 101
Taipei's most iconic skyscraper offering breathtaking views from its observation deck. The 101 story building resembles a giant bamboo stick, and the 91st-floor outdoor observation deck offers amazing 360-degree views of the city.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "TAIPEI 101 OBSERVATION DECK- Is It Worth It??", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orVCpuQ-MM8", "channel": { "name": "Kevin Eassa"}, "published_date": "Nov 2, 2019", "length": "4:53" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Visiting Taiwan's Former World's Tallest Skyscraper - Full ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GJou0R4F2I", "channel": { "name": "Aussie Jetsetter"}, "published_date": "Jan 7, 2024", "length": "17:20" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Top of the world! Taipei 101, 101st floor Skyline 460 outdoor ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oC4-VVziPnY", "channel": { "name": "taiwanreporter"}, "published_date": "Oct 6, 2019", "length": "0:47" }</div>
Tips
Book tickets via Klook for a hassle-free visit and to avoid long queues. You can reserve your timeslot in advance and for the best price using the Klook app. Itโs super simple and avoids waiting in extra lines when Taipei 101 gets busy.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| ๐ย ย ย Phone: +886 2 8101 8898 |
| ๐ย ย ย Website: https://www.taipei-101.com.tw/tw/observatory |
| ๐ย ย ย Hours: See hours |
| ๐ย ย ย Address: 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District, Section 5, Xinyi Rd, 7่89ๆจ |
๐ย ย ย Profiles:   |
๐ก Maokong Gondola
A scenic cable car ride offering stunning views and access to tea plantations. The 30-minute glass-bottomed cable car stops at the colorful Zhinan Temple before continuing to the quaint mountaintop village of Maokong known for its tea plantations and tea shops.
Tips
Purchase combo tickets for the gondola and a sightseeing tour for great value. The gondola is closed most Mondays, so make sure to plan your trip around the gondolaโs opening hours.
๐ Shilin Night Market
Taipei's largest night market, offering a wide array of food, games, and shopping. There are some incredible Bid Gourmand stalls serving dishes such as Hai You Pork Ribs and Bin Small Sausage in Large Sausage, where the sausage wrapped in sticky rice is a huge hit.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "TAIWANESE STREET FOOD at Shilin Night Market in Taipei ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUNldKK45o8", "channel": { "name": "Vannie Eats"}, "published_date": "Dec 24, 2023", "length": "14:29" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Exploring the Best Night Markets in Taipei, Taiwan | Shilin ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqzjRjDixiE", "channel": { "name": "Wanderer Bell"}, "published_date": "Dec 10, 2023", "length": "32:53" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "THIS is what Taipei is FAMOUS FOR! (Shilin & Ningxia Night ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aejeSOXT1Kk", "channel": { "name": "Jacob and Jenny - Travel"}, "published_date": "1 week ago", "length": "16:34" }</div>
Tips
Don't miss the Hai You Pork Ribs and the unique sausage wrapped in sticky rice. Thereโs a lot more to Shilin than just food, and you can do everything from playing arcade games to praying in the temple located in the center of the market.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| ๐ย ย ย Phone: +886 2 2881 5557 |
| ๐ย ย ย Website: https://www.shilin-night-market.com/ |
| ๐ย ย ย Hours: See hours |
| ๐ย ย ย Address: No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111 |
๐ Day 2: Taipei's Cultural Gems
Day two in Taipei promises a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and culinary delights. From the breathtaking views atop Elephant Mountain to the vibrant energy of Raohe Night Market, this day is a testament to Taipei's diverse offerings.
<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> Elephant Mountain\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (8.0 km, \ud83d\ude98 19 min, \ud83d\ude87 1 hr 7)\n>\n> CKS Memorial Hall\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (2.2 km, \ud83d\ude98 8 min)\n>\n> Ximending\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (9.4 km, \ud83d\ude98 14 min, \ud83d\ude87 3 hr 18)\n>\n> Raohe Night Market\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>
๐๏ธ Elephant Mountain
Elephant Mountain offers unparalleled panoramic views of Taipei, especially during the serene moments of sunrise. The cityscape unfolds beneath you, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of urban life against a backdrop of natural beauty.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Sunrise in Taipei (Elephant Mountain) | Timelapse", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQ4I2Ny_4aE", "channel": { "name": "Fly with Sebastian"}, "published_date": "Apr 6, 2018", "length": "1:29" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Taipei's Elephant Mountain Hike | Our journey to Taiwan!", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7xhwtS60NI", "channel": { "name": "Helen and Tim Travel"}, "published_date": "Mar 18, 2023", "length": "22:49" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Hiking Up Elephant Mountain in Taipei for an Amazing View", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fhs1BGob_Xo", "channel": { "name": "Chasing the Sun"}, "published_date": "May 8, 2020", "length": "5:51" }</div>
Tips
The well-maintained trail provides ample rest stops and viewing platforms, ensuring a comfortable and rewarding hiking experience.
๐๏ธ CKS Memorial Hall
The CKS Memorial Hall stands as a poignant tribute to the first president of Taiwan, Chiang Kai-shek. Imbued with historical significance, it offers visitors a glimpse into Taiwan's rich and complex past, making it an essential stop for those seeking to understand the island's cultural heritage.
Tips
Take your time to explore the exhibits and immerse yourself in the compelling narrative of Taiwan's history.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| ๐ย ย ย Phone: +886 2 2343 1100 |
| ๐ย ย ย Website: https://www.cksmh.gov.tw/ |
| ๐ย ย ย Hours: See hours |
| ๐ย ย ย Address: 100, Taiwan, Taipei City, Zhongzheng District |
๐ย ย ย Profiles:  |
๐๏ธ Ximending
Ximending is a vibrant district renowned for its eclectic mix of entertainment, shopping, and dining. The area's unique themed cafes and avant-garde fashion scene add a touch of whimsy to the bustling streets, creating an atmosphere that is both trendy and culturally rich.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Exploring Taipei's Most Bustling Neighborhood: Ximending", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzT2gx6Ecp4", "channel": { "name": "Yellow Productions"}, "published_date": "Dec 10, 2023", "length": "11:22" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Best of Ximending!", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tloAII8RmzQ", "channel": { "name": "Chase for Adventure"}, "published_date": "Feb 10, 2020", "length": "10:14" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Ximending Taipei Travel Guide", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=insgxEopfDM", "channel": { "name": "Yellow Productions"}, "published_date": "Nov 22, 2013", "length": "4:24" }</div>
Tips
Indulge in the novelty of the Modern Toilet Restaurant for a dining experience unlike any other, and then meander through the neighborhood to discover its hidden gems.
๐ Raohe Night Market
As evening descends, Raohe Night Market comes alive with an irresistible blend of aromas, colors, and sounds. This culinary paradise beckons with an array of delectable street food, offering a tantalizing glimpse into Taipei's gastronomic prowess.
Tips
Don't miss the opportunity to savor the Fuzhou Shizu Black Pepper Buns, a beloved specialty that encapsulates the market's culinary allure.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| ๐ย ย ย Phone: +886 2 2766 8876 |
| ๐ย ย ย Website: https://www.travel.taipei/zh-tw/attraction/details/1538 |
| ๐ย ย ย Hours: See hours |
| ๐ย ย ย Address: Raohe St, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 105 |
๐ณ Day 3: Taipei Parks and Hot Springs
Relax in Taipei's parks, visit the world's highest Starbucks, and unwind at Beitou Hot Springs.
๐ณ Daan Forest Park
Taipei's largest park offering a peaceful escape with lush greenery. It is a serene oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic amidst nature's beauty.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Taipei\u2019s DAAN DISTRICT! \ud83c\uddf9\ud83c\uddfc (Taiwan's BEST food + 10 ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7qDeu2g0Ko", "channel": { "name": "IfWeGoTo"}, "published_date": "May 22, 2023", "length": "19:18" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Relax and Recharge in the Peaceful Setting of Daan Forest ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0h9PyqFhmg", "channel": { "name": "Jason Jose"}, "published_date": "Jun 5, 2020", "length": "36:24" }</div>
Tips
Start your day here for a refreshing morning, and don't miss the opportunity to explore the various walking trails and the picturesque lotus pond.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| ๐ย ย ย Phone: +886 2 2700 3830 |
| ๐ย ย ย Website: https://www.travel.taipei/zh-tw/attraction/details/190 |
| ๐ย ย ย Hours: See hours |
| ๐ย ย ย Address: No. 1่, Section 2, Xinsheng S Rd, Daโan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106 |
โ Starbucks Taipei 101
Located on the 35th floor of Taipei 101, it offers spectacular views of the city. The world's highest Starbucks provides an unparalleled vantage point to admire Taipei's skyline while sipping on your favorite brew.
Tips
Reservation required, usually needs to be made in Mandarin. Ensure to book in advance to secure your spot and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views.
๐ Beitou Hot Springs
Famous for its therapeutic hot springs, with both public and private bath options. Nestled amidst lush greenery, Beitou Hot Springs offer a rejuvenating experience, allowing visitors to soak in the healing mineral waters while surrounded by natural beauty.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Taipei's BEITOU DISTRICT! \ud83c\uddf9\ud83c\uddfc (Taiwan\u2019s hot spring town!)", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgoCCDy0cG0", "channel": { "name": "IfWeGoTo"}, "published_date": "Aug 1, 2023", "length": "24:18" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Beitou Hiking and Hot Springs in Taiwan | Taipei Vlog", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPbgbiVFh5E", "channel": { "name": "Two Between | Sarah and Seunghyun"}, "published_date": "Jun 30, 2023", "length": "16:05" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Taiwan Beitou Hot Spring Travel Guide", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWfw4P8fMSc", "channel": { "name": "Yellow Productions"}, "published_date": "Dec 14, 2014", "length": "5:00" }</div>
Tips
Explore the Hot Spring Museum and Library within the park to gain insights into the history and significance of the hot springs. Additionally, consider indulging in a traditional Taiwanese spa treatment for the ultimate relaxation.
๐ Day 4: Day Trip from Taipei
- Explore the natural beauty surrounding Taipei with a day trip to Jiufen, Shifen, and Yehliu Geopark.
<div class="-md-ext-markdown-card"> { "content": "Travel Time Tips\n\n\n> Yehliu Geopark\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (34.3 km, \ud83d\ude98 44 min, \ud83d\ude87 1 hr 54)\n>\n> Jiufen\n>\n> \u2b07\ufe0f (24.0 km, \ud83d\ude98 37 min, \ud83d\ude87 1 hr 10)\n>\n> Shifen\n>\n", "color": "#232425", "background": "#FFF9F2", "darkmodeColor": "#e0e0e0", "darkmodeBackground": "#333"} </div>
๐๏ธ Yehliu Geopark
Yehliu Geopark is known for its unique geological formations and stunning coastal views. The fascinating collection of rock formations, sculpted by sea erosion, creates an otherworldly landscape that is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. Don't miss the iconic Queen's Head rock formation, a symbol of the park's natural artistry.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Yehliu Geopark, Taiwan [Amazing Places 4K]", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z16fYA5mqVE", "channel": { "name": "Amazing Places on Our Planet"}, "published_date": "Oct 11, 2019", "length": "6:24" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Discover the Strange and Beautiful Formations at Yehliu ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vY5BmWCqwkw", "channel": { "name": "Jason Jose"}, "published_date": "Apr 21, 2020", "length": "27:06" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "A Day in Yehliu Geopark Taiwan | The Favorite Destination", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjtTiUk3hkY", "channel": { "name": "Dave Guino"}, "published_date": "Sep 20, 2023", "length": "9:48" }</div>
Tips
Take your time to stroll along the beautiful coastal walk and marvel at the intricate formations that have been shaped by the forces of nature over centuries.
๐๏ธ Jiufen
Jiufen is a charming mountain town famous for its narrow alleys, traditional tea houses, and breathtaking ocean views. The old street in Jiufen is a bustling hub of activity, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, indulge in delectable street food, and explore the quaint shops offering unique souvenirs. The A-Mei Tea House stands as a prominent landmark, offering not only great tea but also panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "This town inspired \u201cSpirited Away\u201d \ud83d\udc7b\ud83c\udfee (Jiufen, Taiwan)", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyinTcVrkWo", "channel": { "name": "IfWeGoTo"}, "published_date": "Aug 8, 2023", "length": "17:42" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Exploring Taiwan's Magical Jiufen Old Street", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoiwXgy8p84", "channel": { "name": "ActionKid"}, "published_date": "Jan 9, 2024", "length": "38:47" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Taiwan's GOLD Mining Towns \ud83c\uddf9\ud83c\uddfc - Jiufen + Jinguashi Old ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlHGZaQqGVE", "channel": { "name": "LukeGee Travels"}, "published_date": "1 month ago", "length": "11:56" }</div>
Tips
Make sure to sample the local specialties such as glutinous rice cakes, peanut ice cream, and fish balls while wandering through the enchanting streets of Jiufen.
๐๏ธ Shifen
Shifen is famous for its old street and the enchanting lantern release tradition. The old streets of Shifen, located around the railway track, are a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and aromas, offering a glimpse into the area's rich cultural heritage. The tradition of releasing colorful lanterns bearing wishes into the sky is a captivating experience that embodies the spirit of hope and dreams.
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Guide to Shifen, Taiwan // Day Trip from Taipei", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9uLUj_EC7Y", "channel": { "name": "Jared Dillingham"}, "published_date": "Apr 17, 2023", "length": "2:54" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Shifen Old Street, Taiwan \ud83c\uddf9\ud83c\uddfc - Sky Lanterns and Is It a Place ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8MgRV1-tcM", "channel": { "name": "Leo Does Life"}, "published_date": "Oct 2, 2023", "length": "3:16" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Taipei Day Trip to SHIFEN & JIUFEN | Taiwan Travel Tips & ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZIWkYVZJ9o", "channel": { "name": "Vanessa Huang"}, "published_date": "Jan 13, 2024", "length": "13:08" }</div>
Tips
Participate in the lantern release tradition by inscribing your heartfelt wishes on a lantern and watching it ascend into the sky, creating a mesmerizing display of hopes and aspirations.
