Things to see and do in Taiwan
Attractions in Taiwan
Alishan National Scenic Area
Alishan is famous for its misty forests, mountain tea plantations, and spectacular sunrises. Visitors often take the historic Alishan Forest Railway, a narrow-gauge train that winds through towering cypress trees and steep hills. Highlights include the Sisters Ponds, the Giant Tree Trail, and the early morning pilgrimage to see the sun rise over Yushan, Taiwan's highest peak.
Jiufen
Perched on a mountainside overlooking the northeast coast, Jiufen is a former gold-mining town turned charming tourist hotspot. Its steep lanes are lined with teahouses, red lanterns, and old-world architecture. Visitors come for the nostalgic atmosphere, local street snacks, and stunning sea views. It's especially magical in the evening when the lights flicker on and mist rolls in from the hills.
Kaohsiung
Taiwan's southern port city has evolved into a vibrant hub of art, architecture, and waterfront culture. Visitors can explore the quirky Pier-2 Art Centre, stroll through Lotus Pond with its ornate pagodas, or take a ferry to Cijin Island for seafood and seaside views. Kaohsiung also boasts a relaxed vibe and sunnier climate compared to Taipei.
Kenting National Park
Kenting National Park is Taiwan's tropical playground, offering sun, sea, and striking coastal scenery at the island's southern tip. With sandy beaches, coral reefs, and dramatic cliffs, it's perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or just soaking up the sunshine. By night, the area buzzes with lively night markets and a laid-back beach vibe.
Kinmen
Just off the coast of mainland China, Kinmen was once a frontline outpost during cross-strait tensions. The island is dotted with old bunkers, propaganda loudspeakers, and tunnels that tell tales of Taiwan's complex past. Yet Kinmen also surprises with its peaceful countryside, traditional Fujian-style architecture, and an unexpectedly tranquil pace of life. Visitors can explore well-preserved villages, sample locally brewed sorghum liquor, and spot wild deer roaming freely.
Lanyu (Orchid Island)
Located off Taiwan's southeast coast, Lanyu is a remote volcanic island home to the Tao (Yami) indigenous people. Known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, lush landscapes, and traditional culture, it offers a rare chance to experience a different side of Taiwan. Snorkelling, diving, and hiking are popular, and visitors can witness unique rituals, houses, and wooden canoes crafted by the Tao community.
Penghu
The Penghu archipelago, set in the Taiwan Strait, is a scattering of windswept islands known for their basalt cliffs, pristine beaches, and deep-rooted maritime culture. Popular activities include windsurfing, island-hopping, and tasting local seafood delicacies. The islands are also famous for the Penghu Fireworks Festival and for producing some of Taiwan's best cactus ice cream—a quirky treat not to be missed.
Sun Moon Lake
Nestled in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is the island's largest body of freshwater and a favourite escape for locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by mountains and dotted with pagodas and temples, the lake offers opportunities for cycling, boating, and leisurely lakeside strolls. Its name comes from the lake's unique shape—one side resembles a sun, the other a crescent moon.
Tainan
Tainan is the cultural heart of Taiwan and the island's oldest city. Once the island's capital during the Qing dynasty, it's packed with centuries-old temples, Dutch forts, and lively night markets. Highlights include the Chihkan Tower, the Confucius Temple, and a vibrant local culinary scene.
Taipei
Taiwan's energetic capital is a lively blend of towering skyscrapers, centuries-old temples, steamy food stalls, and serene mountain trails. At its heart stands Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world, offering panoramic views over a city that buzzes with creativity and culture. Beyond the urban bustle, visitors can soak in the hot springs of Beitou, hike Elephant Mountain for sunset views, or wander the winding alleys of Dadaocheng.
Taroko Gorge
Taroko Gorge is one of Taiwan's most breathtaking natural wonders. Carved by the Liwu River, the marble-walled canyon cuts through the mountains of eastern Taiwan and is home to dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and winding tunnels. Visitors can hike scenic trails like Shakadang or Zhuilu Old Trail, visit temples tucked into cliffsides, and cross suspension bridges above turquoise rivers.
Yushan (Jade Mountain)
The highest peak in Taiwan and all of Northeast Asia, Yushan, aka Jade Mountain, stands at 3,952 metres (12,966 ft) and is a bucket-list climb for hikers. Located in the heart of Yushan National Park, the mountain offers stunning alpine scenery, rich biodiversity, and panoramic views that, on clear days, stretch all the way to the coast.
