Taiwan Travel in Depth

Once you land in Taipei, our tour guide and the driver will meet you at Taoyuan International Airport and escort you to the hotel in a private car. After check-in, you can spend the remainder of the day at your own pace.

► Free Time Suggestion: Discover History, Nature, and Local Life at Zhongshan Park
If you arrive early, unwind yourself at Zhongshan Park. Built to honor Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founder of the Republic of China, the park boasts numerous statues and inscriptions of him, offering a glimpse of Taiwan’s history through his lifetime achievements. Here you can immerse in the tranquil environment of Green Lake, Taipei’s largest artificial lake, where koi fish gracefully swim and the city’s tallest building Taipei 101 is beautifully reflected in the water. To experience daily Taipei life, just watch locals practicing Tai Chi or dancing amid the lush greenery. The park is a 15-minute taxi ride from your hotel, and you can hail a car by Uber with an existing account from your home country.

► Best Time to Visit:
Feb.-Apr. and Oct.-Dec. are the best times to plan your visit to Taiwan. From February to April, the average temperature is around 18°C (68°F), making it the perfect season to appreciate cherry blossoms in Yangmingshan National Park and peach blossoms around Sun Moon Lake. From October to December, the average temperature hovers around 22°C (72°F), offering a cool and pleasant climate to enjoy sea views at Kenting and Yilan with fewer crowds.

Accommodation: Amba Taipei Songshan (4 stars) or similar

After breakfast, your private Taiwan tour will begin at the National Palace Museum, which houses around 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese royal artifacts and artworks, including porcelain, jade, calligraphy, and painting masterpieces. They were previously kept in Beijing’s Forbidden City, a royal complex of the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911), and were transported to Taiwan for safekeeping during WWII. Have you ever seen the Meat-shaped Stone? It is one of the most eye-catching treasures of the museum. A piece of jade is skillfully carved into three distinct layers that mimic skin, fat, and lean meat, with the pores on the surface astonishingly visible! Other beloved treasures are the Jadeite Cabbage and the Lord Mao’s Cauldron, a bronze tripod vessel.

Next, you will witness the changing of the guard ceremony each hour at the National Revolutionary Martyr’s Shrine. The guards will march slowly but powerfully in a V-shape, showcasing formation changes and rifle inspection for about 20 minutes. To show your respect, please remove your hat and parasol when visiting. Then our guide will lead you to Taipei 101, where you can ascend from the 5th to the 89th floor in just 37 seconds to overlook the whole city!
 

★ Enjoy Small Steamed Buns at Din Tai Fung Restaurant

After that, you will enjoy lunch at Din Tai Fung on the basement level of Taipei 101. Once hailed as one of the world’s top ten restaurants by the New York Times, Din Tai Fung is famous for its Small Steamed Buns, which have a golden ratio of 18 folds to hold all the succulent meat filling in a paper-thin wrapper, ensuring a beautiful look and savory taste. Although the restaurant is often teeming with crowds, our thoughtful guide will make a reservation in advance for you.

Our next stop is Longshan Temple, a melting pot of beliefs honoring divines from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Then, let’s head to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a solemn octagon-shaped building, where you can learn more about Taiwan’s history through the lifetime achievements of Chiang Kai-shek, a former president of the Republic of China.

Next, we’ll go to the Shilin Night Market, exploring Taiwan’s famous snacks to cap off the day’s visit. The myriad of food stalls may seem overwhelming, but our guide is a true food expert and will invite you to savor 5-6 must-try local specialties, which are included in the price. You may sample Charcoal Grilled Chicken Breast, Mee Sua (Chinese Vermicelli), and Frog Egg Drink. Curious about the Frog Egg? They are actually chewy tapioca pearls and are so named because of their small size and frog egg shape. Finally, you will be whisked away to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Amba Taipei Songshan (4 stars) or similar

Today, we’ll visit Yangmingshan National Park with diverse landscapes, the only park in Taiwan boasting volcanic landforms and hot springs. The park is delightful to visit throughout the year, but spring, especially from March to May, offers an unforgettable spectacle with arum lilies blooming near the Bamboo Lake. Some local flower farmers provide a flower-picking experience, allowing you to gather 6-7 lovely arum lilies as souvenirs at the cost of NTD 100 (USD 3). Another highlight is the post-volcanic landscape of Xiaoyoukeng, known for bubbling sulfur hot springs. It is advisable to prepare a mask to cope with the potential pungent aroma.

In the afternoon, our guide will lead you to the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, the area’s former public bathhouse. On the first floor, you can glimpse the hot spring baths, surrounded by Roman arches and beautiful stained glass windows, which were once only for men. Many tatami mats were settled on the second floor, convenient for guests to relax and chat after soaks. The observation deck nearby provides stunning views of Beitou Park.

Afterwards, we’ll stroll along Tamsui Old Street, where many century-old shops and snack stalls nestle. You can try some local specialties for dinner, with prices starting from NTD 30 (USD 1). A must-try is Ageh, a traditional street food featuring steamed crispy fried tofu stuffed with stir-fried glass noodles, drizzled with fish paste and chili sauce. Tamsui Fish Balls and Iron Eggs (eggs stewed in soy sauce) are also irresistible. If time permits, you may witness the breathtaking sunset at Fishermen’s Wharf. Finally, we will drive back to Taipei.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Amba Taipei Songshan (4 stars) or similar

In the morning, we will drive out of the city for about 2.5 hours to Lukang Town, which used to be a harbor and the second-largest town in Taiwan. Our exploration will start at the Old Street, where you can get a taste of local traditional lifestyle when passing by quaint red brick houses adorned with couplets and antique artifacts to ward off evil spirits. Lukang is also a cradle of traditional Taiwanese crafts, and you may witness skilled craftsmanship in wood carving, lantern-making, and tin-crafting workshops. Additionally, you can sample some local delicacies like Mullet Roe Pouch, Phoenix Eye Cake, and Ox-tongue Pastry, with prices starting from NTD 30 (USD 1). 

Then, let’s proceed to Tianhou Temple, the most revered one in Taiwan’s 400 Mazu temples. Mazu is a sea goddess in Chinese folk belief, who is believed to have a superhuman power to roam the seas and rescue fishermen and merchant ships from maritime accidents. If your visit aligns with Mazu’s birthday, the 23rd day of the third lunar month, expect to witness a grand sacrificial ceremony featuring traditional dragon and lion dances, as well as stilt walking performances.

Our next stop will be Longshan Temple, the best-preserved architectural complex from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Marvel at the caisson ceiling above the stage facing the main hall, boasting the spider-web interlocking wooden beams embellished with intricate painted dragon patterns and gilded details. Afterward, you will take a stroll along Nine Turns Lane, where narrow streets and ancient houses provide a perfect backdrop for vintage photos. Finally, we will drive onward for 1.5 hours to Sun Moon Lake and check into a local hotel.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sun Moon Lake Hotel (4 stars) or similar

Spend a whole day enjoying the stunning landscape of Sun Moon Lake. In the morning, you will be first led to Ci En Pagoda, built by Chiang Kai-shek to honor his mother. Climb up its spiral staircase to the ninth floor, where you can enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Sun Moon Lake, with wind chimes from its eaves tinkling. The following stop is Wenwu Temple, built in the Chinese palace style of the Northern Dynasties (386-581) with three halls, which showcases exquisite stone carvings through the well-designed ornamental columns and sculptures of two dragons playing with a pearl at the temple’s entrance.

Next, embark on a scenic cruise to Lalu Island, which divides the lake into two parts. The east side resembles the sun while the west side looks like the crescent moon, hence the name “Sun Moon Lake”. The island is also home to the local Thao people and their ancestral spirits. According to the legend, their ancestors came here while hunting a white deer, which transformed into a bishop wood tree and escaped, leading to the ancestors settling here thereafter.

The afternoon is free for you to create your own adventure around Sun Moon Lake. You can rent a bicycle at Shuishe Pier for NTD 300 (USD 3). Don’t miss pedaling along the bike trail leading to Xiangshan Visitor Center, once praised as one of the world’s top ten most beautiful bike paths by CNN. Just be cautious of occasionally raised stones along the way! If you prefer a more leisurely activity, consider wandering through the old street near Ita Thao Pier to admire traditional wooden carvings and hand-embroidered costumes of the Thao people, or sample local snacks like Tea Eggs, Bamboo Rice, Assam Black Tea, and Flat Steamed White Buns, each costing about NTD 80 (USD 2.4). Be sure to arrive early since the old street closes at 18:00. After that, you can walk back to the hotel by yourself.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sun Moon Lake Hotel (4 stars) or similar

Today we will drive for about 2 hours to traditional Tainan to explore its rich history and culture. Our first stop will be the Confucius Temple, dedicated to Chinese ancient philosopher Confucius, which is known as the “First Academy of Taiwan”, dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). You may appreciate 15 plaques with inscriptions of emperors and presidents throughout history at the main hall - Dacheng Hall. The 28th day of the ninth lunar month is Confucius’ birthday, which is also celebrated as Taiwan’s Teachers’ Day. If your visit coincides with this period, you may witness a ceremony where 36 students dance in six rows accompanied by traditional Chinese court music to pay homage to the sage in front of Dacheng Hall. Another highlight of the ceremony is “plucking the wisdom hair”, in which participants hope to have a clear mind by plucking hair from the ears, eyes, and eyebrows of a sacrificial ox.

Next, we will proceed to the Anping Fort, with a history spanning over 400 years. Originally constructed by the Dutch, the fort is now left with only its base and broken city walls. A Western-style building perches atop these ruins, which served as the dormitory for naval officers during the Japanese colonial era (1895-1945). Inside, a collection of artifacts like nautical charts and armor could help you delve into Taiwan’s maritime history. Additionally, the outdoor observation deck offers panoramic views of the fort and stunning coastal scenery.

Then, you’ll be led to the Former Tait & Co. Merchant House. This pure white building was once a hub for British exports of tea, sugar, and camphor in Anping. Now, it is a museum that exhibits some wax figures of early immigrants and workers, depicting the social life of that era. Today’s sightseeing will conclude at Grand Mazu Temple, the oldest government-built Mazu Temple from the Qing Dynasty. Apart from admiring the giant Mazu statue, you can enjoy murals depicting themes of Taoism, Buddhism, and folk legends. Finally, you’ll be transferred to a Tainan downtown hotel for check-in.

► Dinner Suggestion (at your own expense):
After visiting, if interested, we recommend that you enjoy a Tai-style dinner at Temple to Eat to Fat Restaurant, just a 2-minute walk west of the Grand Mazu Temple. With a warm ambiance created by rustic wooden tables and chairs, this restaurant specializes in Taiwanese home-cooked dishes and it has been recommended by Michelin Bib Gourmand. Try their signature Pumpkin Rice Noodles, featuring rice noodles fried with golden pumpkin puree, with a slightly sweet flavor and soft texture. The restaurant is open from 17:00 to 20:30 but closed on Wednesdays. You can call ahead or make a reservation on Instagram to grab a table. Take a 5-minute taxi ride back to the hotel by yourself.
Average Cost per Person: NTD 300-500 (USD 9-15)
Address: No.3, Lane 125, Sinmel Street, West Central District, Tainan 700 Taiwan

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lakeshore Hotel Tainan (4 stars) or similar

After breakfast, we will set off for Kenting National Park, which is located a 2.5-hour drive away from Tainan. This stunning park boasts tropical climate, radiant sunshine, scenic beach, and diverse wildlife. It is also one of the top 10 tropical botanical gardens in the world, perfect for outdoor activities like biking and hiking. Before we head out, remember to slather on high-SPF sunscreen to avoid the scorching sun!

Our guide will first lead you to the Eluanbi Lighthouse with unusual rock formations, colossal reefs, and natural caves. The highlight is definitely the lighthouse, dubbed the “Light of East Asia” thanks to its powerful intensity. Its gleaming white tower stands out against expansive green fields and an azure sky, bringing a film scene to life! Climbing to the top of the lighthouse, you can get mesmerizing views of the endless Pacific Ocean and the Taiwan Strait. Next, let’s visit Cape Cat’s Nose Head (Maobitou), named for a cat-shaped rock that fell from a sea cliff. This unique landmark and Eluanbi Lighthouse are the southernmost ends of Taiwan Island. To get the best panoramic views of the park and capture that unique rock, you can head to the No.3 observation deck. Please note that the sea breeze can be quite strong, so it’s a good idea to prepare a light coat to keep warm. Finally, you’ll be escorted to a hotel to stay overnight in Kenting.

► Free Time Suggestion: Explore Taiwan’s Southernmost Night Market
If you are still energetic, explore Tainan’s night charms at the Kenting Street Night Market, located just steps from the beach. Strolling along the main road, you will see tourists in beach shorts and bikinis pass by. Roadside pubs also add to the excitement, with talented bartenders whipping up colorful cocktails. Sip a cup of your favorite one and unwind with the soothing sea breeze. Besides, you can savor local specialties like Oyster Omelette and Small Sausage in Large Sausage for about NTD 100 (USD 3). It is open from 17:00 to 23:00 and is a 15-minute walk west of your hotel. When exploring, please watch out for the occasional motorcycle passing by since the night market is located on the bustling street.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Caesar Park Hotel Kenting (5 stars) or similar

Today we will head north along the east coast to Taroko National Park after a 5-hour scenic drive. On the way, we will stop to discover unique landscapes and rocky coastlines. Please wear non-slip and comfy shoes and pack enough water as there are no shops nearby.

We will first stop at Small Yehliu, where sea waves have sculpted rocks into peculiar formations like tofu cubes, and some are eroded with intricate honeycomb textures. Then we will head to Three Immortals Island (Sanxiantai), which beckons you with a pebbled beach. Stroll along the shore or take off your shoes to enjoy the refreshing ocean water. Going further, you will see the iconic Eight-Arch Bridge, perfect for overlooking the coral reef terrain below. Don’t forget to look back as you reach the fourth arch, where the scenic beauty of Taiwan’s east coast unfolds before you. After crossing the bridge, if you still feel energetic, climb up the lighthouse to see various sea erosion terrains.

Our next stop is Stone Steps Platform (Shitiping), where relentless sea erosion has created stunning rock formations, with hard parts jutting out and soft sections sinking, resembling a natural stone staircase tilted at a 30-degree angle. Finally, you will explore the Caves of the Eight Immortals to see natural sea caves. One of the highlights is the Chaoyin Cave on the second floor, where you can hear the sound of sea waves. Please be cautious of wild macaques when traversing trails and hide your snacks to avoid provoking them. After visiting, continue our way toward Taroko Gorge and check in a local hotel.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Lakeshore Hotel Taroko (5 stars) or similar

Today we will explore the natural wonders of Taroko National Park, where the Liwu River has been carving through marble layers of more than 1,000 meters (3,280 ft.) thick over millions of years, creating the stunning U-shaped Taroko Gorge. As we drive through the canyon, you will see the Eternal Spring Shrine standing on a steep cliff, dedicated to the workers who tragically lost their lives during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway. There is a narrow silk-like waterfall in front of the temple rushing down to meet Liwu River. Afterward, take a break at the Tienhsiang Visitor Center, perfect for overlooking the surrounding potholes.

Then proceed to Hualien, and our guide will lead you to Seven Star Lake Beach (Qixingtan Beach). Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk while feeling soothing touches of seawater. Please keep a safe distance because the ocean floor sharply drops off less than 50 meters (164 feet) from the shore. Due to frequent tectonic plate motions, Hualien is known as “Marble City”. At Hualien Stone Sculpture Museum, you will discover the unique characteristics of stones from the city’s three major river basins and admire giant and exquisite stone sculptures outdoors. Finally, we will stop by Clear Water Cliff (Qingshui Cliff) and continue onward to Yilan, and check in at the hotel upon arrival.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Four Points by Sheraton Yilan Jiaoxi (4 stars) or similar

After breakfast, we will drive for 1.5 hours to Jinguashi, known as the “First Gold City in East Asia”. Our guide will accompany you to visit the Gold Ecological Park, once a gold mine, aka Benshan Mine, from the Japanese colonial era and only left with deformed mountains and exposed rock formations. When reaching the mine, you’ll find a mysterious array of stones, making you wonder if it is a signal from an alien civilization. Afterward, walk along the Invincible Sea View Trail to capture the extraordinary scenery where the clear sea meets the horizon.

We will enjoy the afternoon in Jiufen Village. In Chinese, Jiufen literally means nine portions, which is so named because the families that once lived here always purchased nine portions of the same household goods at one time. Walking along its winding old street, you will step into a cinematic scene where quaint wooden houses are hung with numerous red lanterns. It is no wonder that Japanese animation master Hayao Miyazaki was inspired to create the well-known Spirited Away. The largest theater in Taiwan during the Japanese colonial era, Shengping Theater, is also well preserved here, offering a glimpse of how locals watched movies in the 1950s and 1960s with some nostalgic decorations. But the most recommended experience is sipping a cup of authentic tea in an ancient teahouse while appreciating the mountains and sea in the distance. We will then proceed to Taipei before night and check in at a hotel downtown.

► Free Time Suggestion: Enjoy Culinary Delights of Raohe Night Market
On the last night in Taipei, prepare cash and walk 10 minutes northwest from your hotel to savor mouthwatering street food at Raohe Night Market! The street of more than 600 meters (1,968 ft.) long provides abundant dinner choices, with most snacks pricing about NTD 50-150 (USD 1.5-4.6). The must-tries are Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns, Chen Dong Pork Ribs Herbs Medicinal Soup, and Ah Guo Braised Dishes, all of which were once recommended by Michelin Bib Gourmand. If you don’t want to queue for a long time, Stinky Tofu, Oyster Vermicelli, and Egg Cake are also worth savoring.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Amba Taipei Songshan (4 stars) or similar

Hope you’ve enjoyed the 11 days Taiwan tour with us and it’s time to wave goodbye. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Taoyuan International Airport according to your departure flight. Wish you a nice journey!

► For Your Information: If your flight departs in the late afternoon, consider visiting Xiangshan Park on your own, about a 15-minute taxi ride from the hotel. Its natural paths offer a bird’s-eye view of Taipei’s street scene, and it is also the best place to take photos with the city landmark, Taipei 101. Alternatively, head to Songshan Cultural and Creative Park to visit a tobacco factory from the Japanese colonial era and explore some creative handmade workshops. You can get there by taking a 10-minute taxi.

If you want to explore mainland China or other Asian countries like Japan, South Korea, and Thailand, please feel free to contact our travel consultants to customize your itinerary.

Meals: Breakfast