Ranking of 15 recommended sightseeing spots in Taiwan! Includes model courses for beginners, night markets, and gourmet information!

The Appeal of Traveling to Taiwan and Basic Information

In this article, we'll coverTop 15 Recommended SpotsWe’ll provide a comprehensive guide for beginners, covering everything from model itineraries and the best seasons to night markets and local cuisine.

We’ve put together some tips to help you enjoy your first trip to Taiwan without getting lost, so please feel free to use them as a guide.

Taiwan Recommendations
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Recommended Places to Visit in Taiwan
Top 15 Spots

Taiwan offers a rich variety of history, nature, cuisine, and entertainmentTourist Attractionsare available.

Whether you're visiting for the first time or you're a returning guest, we hope you'll find this helpful.

Jiufen

In an old town nestled in the mountains near Taipei,A cobblestone alley lined with red lanterns...creates a magical atmosphere.

In this town that once thrived on gold mining, enjoying the night view from a retro tea house is a classic must-do when visiting Taiwan.

It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to get there by train and bus from downtown Taipei.

Jiufen Recommendation
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Taipei 101

Height508 mThis iconic Taiwanese skyscraper boasts a 360-degree view of downtown Taipei from its observation deck.

There is also a shopping mall on-site, making it a great place to enjoy both sightseeing and shopping at the same time.

It's a popular spot for night views and a must-see if it's your first visit to Taiwan.

National Palace Museum

Artifacts from China's Historical DynastiesApproximately 700,000 itemsIt is one of the world's leading museums housing this collection.

Masterpieces such as the "Jade Cabbage" and the "Meat-Shaped Stone" are a must-see, and the collection is so vast that it would take several days to view it all in detail.

It’s easily accessible from downtown Taipei via the MRT and bus, and with reasonable admission prices, it’s a great place to drop by.

Shilin Night Market

TaipeiThe Largest Night MarketThere will be a wide variety of vendors selling food, sundries, games, and more.

The real pleasure lies in strolling around while sampling Taiwanese street food like stinky tofu, pepper buns, and fruit juice.

Its convenient location, just a short walk from Jiantan MRT Station, is one of the reasons for its popularity.

Yongsan Temple

Founded in 1738It is one of Taipei's most iconic Buddhist temples and a historic landmark that is deeply revered by the local community.

Located in the Mangka district, the area is home to many wholesale districts and long-established shops, allowing visitors to experience the local lifestyle and culture firsthand.

The temple grounds, filled with the scent of incense, are very photogenic and bustling with visitors even at night.

Yeliu Geopark

Located on the coast north of Taipei, this nature park is known for its unique rock formations, sculpted by the waves and wind.

In particular"Queen's Head"The mushroom-shaped rock, known as [Name], is a must-see landmark.

It’s a spot you can visit on a day trip from Taipei, and I highly recommend it to nature lovers.

Pingxi and Shifen (Lantern Release)

Shifen, located in the mountains of northern Taiwan, is situated along the railroad tracksExperience releasing sky lanterns into the skyIt's a popular spot where you can...

The countless lanterns floating in the night sky create a magical scene and have become a popular spot for social media photos.

The Pingxi area boasts beautiful valley scenery, so we recommend exploring it while enjoying a hike.

Highly recommended
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Wulai Hot Springs

Located in the suburbs of Taipei, this hot spring resort is a unique spot where you can also experience the culture of the indigenous Tayal people.

Hot spring facilities are scattered along the valley,Day-trip BathingYou can enjoy it casually, too.

The hot spring town is also a must-visit destination for foodies, as it offers a chance to sample wild mountain vegetable dishes and indigenous cuisine.

Three Gorges Old Street

Located in an area near Taipei that retains its historic streetscape,A Baroque-style red-brick buildingThe historic street that stretches on and on is a must-see.

Once a thriving commercial district known for its dye trade, it still retains much of its old-world charm.

Nearby is the Three Gorges Ancestral Temple, a temple renowned for its exquisite carvings, and many visitors make a point of seeing both sites together.

Kukudo and Taiju

Located in the suburbs of Kaohsiung, this area is known for its striking scenery featuring an old railway bridge and the Longli Ferry Terminal.

Old Shimo-Tansui Creek Railway BridgeThis historic bridge was built during the Japanese colonial era, and you can even cross it by bicycle.

This hidden gem offers a chance to relax and enjoy a leisurely pace, surrounded by a blend of serene countryside scenery and historical landmarks.

Tainan · Chikan Tower

Built by the Dutch in 1653It is a historic castle and a must-see attraction in Tainan.

Renovated during the Qing Dynasty, it is now open to the public as a museum, offering visitors a deep insight into Taiwan's history.

Tainan is often called the "Rome of Taiwan" because of its many historic buildings, and you can enjoy a stroll through the city starting at Chikan Tower.

Kaohsiung · Lotus Pond

Located in Tainan City, this freshwater lake features a structure floating on its surfacedragon and tiger towerIt is a tourist attraction with an overwhelming presence.

It is considered good luck to enter through the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s mouth, making this a popular shrine among locals.

The view of the tower reflected on the lake at dusk is particularly beautiful, making it a popular photo spot.

Sun Moon Lake

Located in Nantou County, central TaiwanTaiwan's largest lakeAs the name suggests, it is a scenic spot featuring beautiful lakes shaped like the sun and the moon.

Lake cruises and cycling are popular activities here, and the contrast between the surrounding mountains and the lake’s surface creates a breathtaking view.

Many tourists visit this area as part of a trip to Alishan, making it a key destination for sightseeing in central Taiwan.

Alishan

This is one of Taiwan's premier mountain resorts, famous for its three main attractions: ancient trees, sea of clouds, and sunrises.

Alishan Forest RailwayThe experience of traveling by train is one of the highlights of the trip, allowing you to enjoy a retro train journey.

Since it’s located at an elevation of about 2,000 to 2,500 meters, one of its attractions is that it stays cool even in the summer.

Kenting National Park

A resort area located at the southernmost tip of Taiwan,Emerald-green seas and coral reefsIt is one of Taiwan's premier beach destinations.

There are plenty of marine activities to enjoy, such as snorkeling and surfing, so you can fully soak up the tropical atmosphere.

Kenting Main Street (Night Market Street) is also a great place to enjoy seafood, making it the perfect destination for a culinary trip.

Said to be the setting for *Spirited Away*
Let's visit the sights

Among Japanese tourists visiting Taiwan, "Where is the setting of *Spirited Away*?There are several spots that have become the talk of the town.

Although it isn't officially licensed, its atmosphere certainly aligns with the game's world in many ways.

Why Jiufen?
Is it called "the setting of *Spirited Away*"?

The nighttime views of Jiufen’s stone steps and teahouses, illuminated by red lanterns, appear in the movieThe World of "Aburaya"It all started when many tourists felt it resembled [...].

Although Studio Ghibli has not explicitly stated that Jiufen served as a model, it is said that director Hayao Miyazaki has visited Jiufen, and the similarity in atmosphere is immediately apparent.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of your trip, we recommend visiting between dusk and nightfall.

And there's more!
Enchanting Spots in Taiwan

In addition to Jiufen, there are spots all over Taiwan—such as the Huashan 1914 Creative Park and the Bo-Pi-Liao Historic District in Taipei—where you can experience a nostalgic, retro atmosphere.

Also, in Tainan,Anpei Tree HousePlaces like these—ruins overgrown with greenery—exude a fantastical atmosphere, making them irresistible for fans of Studio Ghibli.

3 Recommended Itineraries for Traveling in Taiwan

Sample itineraries to choose from based on your travel schedule3Let me introduce you to...

Feel free to use this as a guide and adjust it to suit your length of stay and interests.

One night, two days
Taipei Short Trip Itinerary

On the first day, we visited Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, and Longshan Temple, and in the evening, we indulged in delicious food at Shilin Night Market.

On the second day, we recommend taking a day trip to Jiufen and Shifen to experience lantern releasing.

Since I’m based in Taipei, travel is less of a burden, andMy First Trip to TaiwanThis course is perfect for you.

Taipei City
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3 nights, 4 days
Taipei + Southern Taiwan Tour

After two days of sightseeing in Taipei,High-Speed Rail (Taiwan High-Speed Rail)This is a jam-packed itinerary that takes you to Tainan and Kaohsiung.

In Tainan, we recommend visiting Chikan Tower and Anping Fort, and in Kaohsiung, Lotus Pond and Liuhe Night Market.

This is a well-rounded itinerary that lets you experience the stark cultural and atmospheric differences between northern and southern Taiwan.

5 nights, 6 days
Trans-Taiwan Route

This is a luxurious itinerary that starts in Taipei and takes you across Taiwan, visiting Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Kenting.

Taiwan's Nature, History, Cuisine, and ResortsFor those who want to experience it all at onceis ideal for.

Combining a rental car with the high-speed rail makes getting around a breeze and allows you to explore more efficiently.

When is the best time to visit Taiwan?

While Taiwan is a great destination to visit year-round,TimeThe climate and ways to enjoy it vary depending on the season.

Choose the best season based on the purpose of your trip.

Spring and fall are the best seasons

Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November)With temperatures ranging from around 20 to 25°C and relatively little rain, this is considered the best time of year to visit Taiwan.

In spring, you can enjoy Jiufen’s misty, magical scenery, and in autumn, the vibrant autumn foliage of Alishan—all part of the season’s unique beauty.

Since this is a busy season for tourists, we recommend booking popular attractions well in advance.

Ways to Enjoy Summer and Winter

Although the summer months from June to August are hot and humid and can be affected by typhoons, this is the best time of year to enjoy marine activities and the southern resorts in Kenting.

While the winter months from December to February bring heavy rain to northern areas like Taipei, the southern regions—including Wulai Hot Springs, Tainan, and Kaohsiung—remain relatively mild and are ideal for sightseeing.

During the off-seasonHotel rates will be lowerGiven this trend, it’s a great option for those looking for value for money.

I definitely want to go!
5 Recommended Night Markets in Taiwan

One of the must-see attractions when visiting Taiwan isNight Market CultureIt is.

We’ve selected five night markets that are packed with all the fun of a Taiwanese night out, including street food, shopping, and games.

Enjoy at night!
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Shilin Night Market

It is Taipei's largest and most famous night market, and is extremely popular with both tourists and locals.

In the underground food courtSnacks (Xiao Chi)You can sample a variety of Taiwanese "B-grade" foods all at once.

It’s within walking distance of MRT Jiantan Station, making it easy to get to—this is the perfect place to start if you’re experiencing a Taiwanese night market for the first time.

Ningxia Night Market

A compact yet food-packed night market in downtown Taipei that’s popular with localsLong-established food stallThere are many of them.

There’s a wide variety of local delicacies you can only find here, such as oyster omelets and steamed rice cakes.

Since it hasn't been overrun by tourists, you can enjoy a night market atmosphere that feels more authentically Taiwanese.

Raoh Street Night Market

A historic night market located in eastern Taipei, featuring a long-established pepper cake stall at the entrance"Fuzhou Shizu Pepper Cake"is particularly famous.

The street is lined with food stalls on both sides, and its straight layout makes it easy to stroll and sample the food.

Since it’s compact and easy to navigate, it’s a night market that even those short on time can enjoy efficiently.

Fengjia Night Market

It is the largest night market in Taichung and one of the largest in the country.

There are plenty of shops selling not only food but also clothing and other goods, so you can enjoy both shopping and sampling local cuisine at the same time.

Innovative fusion cuisine and new desserts are constantly being created"A Hub for Food Lovers"It's also known as...

Hanazono Night Market

At Tainan's largest night market,Open only on Thursdays, Saturdays, and SundaysThat sense of exclusivity is one of the reasons for its popularity.

More than 400 food stalls will gather here, offering a wide variety of Tainan specialties, including seafood, meat, and desserts.

To round off your trip to Tainan, be sure to enjoy some local cuisine at the night market.

For Beginners!
A Summary of Basic Information on Traveling in Taiwan

Things You Should Know to Enjoy Your First Trip to Taiwan with Peace of MindBasic InformationThe following is a summary of the

Be sure to check this before you travel.

Currency, Currency Exchange, and Prices

The currency of Taiwan isNew Taiwan Dollar (TWD)It is.

You can exchange currency at Taoyuan International Airport, Taipei Songshan Airport, banks in Taiwan, and currency exchange offices.

Prices are generally lower than in Japan, and one of the appeals of traveling to Taiwan is that you can enjoy delicious food at night markets for around 50 to 150 yuan (about 200 to 650 yen).

Means of transportation
(MRT, Bus, Taxi)

The MRT (subway) is a convenient way to get around Taipei,Easy CardIf you use this IC card, you'll receive a discount, making it even more affordable.

The bus network is extensive, and when combined with the MRT, it provides access to nearly all tourist attractions.

Taxis are also more affordable than in Japan, and you can use them with confidence by downloading the "Taiwan Taxi (55688)" app.

Language, Wi-Fi, and SIM

The official language is Chinese (Traditional), but English is understood to some extent in tourist areas and among the younger generation.

There are many places where Japanese is spoken, especially in Taipei, so even beginners can feel at ease.

You can rent Wi-Fi at the airport orBuying a local SIM cardIt's convenient, and since the network coverage in Taiwan is good, you can enjoy a smooth internet experience.

Safety, Etiquette, and Precautions

Overall, TaiwanIt's a safe placeIt is also a country where Japanese travelers can feel very at home.

However, be on the lookout for pickpockets and bag snatchers, and make sure to keep a close eye on your valuables in crowded places like night markets.

Eating and drinking are prohibited on the MRT and in public facilities, so please follow the rules and enjoy your trip.

10 Recommended Taiwanese Dishes

One of the highlights of traveling to Taiwan is the food.

Whether it’s a night market, a restaurant, or a long-established shop, you’ll definitely want to give it a tryExquisite CuisineHere are 10 items.

Restaurants & Fine Dining
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soup dumpling

Xiaolongbao, often considered the epitome of Taiwanese cuisine, features a thin wrapper that enclosesJuicyThese are stuffed dumplings.

Taipei's "Din Tai Fung" is world-famous and always has long lines.

The Taiwanese way to enjoy this dish is to serve it with ginger and black vinegar—once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Lu Lo Fan

Sweet and savory braised pork belly served over white riceTaiwan's national dishSo, you can enjoy it quickly in a small bowl.

The flavors vary slightly from shop to shop, and comparing them is one of the joys of Taiwanese cuisine.

There are plenty of places where you can eat for less than 100 yuan, making this a fantastic value.

Beef Noodles

It is considered the quintessential ramen of Taiwan, known for its rich broth and tender, slow-cooked beef.

Beef noodle soup is so beloved by Taipei residents that the city even hosts an event called "Beef Noodle Soup Festival," and each restaurant takes pride in its own unique recipe.

Made with red misoBraised Beef NoodlesSo, basically, the two main types are clear-broth beef noodle soup and...

Bubble Tea

The tapioca crazeOrigin: TaiwanSo, I really hope you get to experience the authentic flavor.

There is a wide variety of options, ranging from chain stores like "Spring Water House," "50 Lan," and "CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice" to renowned independently owned shops.

Being able to customize the sweetness and amount of ice is one of the unique pleasures of visiting a Taiwanese drink stand.

mochi with red bean paste

This popular Taiwanese street food features pork and scallions seasoned with pepper, wrapped in dough and baked in a clay oven.

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these are the perfect size for eating on the go.

Raoh Street Night Market"Fuzhou Shizu Pepper Cake"is particularly famous and is so popular that people line up to get in.

Guabao

This is a Taiwanese-style burger made with fluffy steamed white bread and filled with braised pork, pickled mustard greens, peanut powder, and cilantro.

The sweet-and-salty braised pork pairs perfectly with the aroma of cilantro, making this a true masterpiece of Taiwanese street food.

At long-established shops like "Aiya Guabao,"Around 50 yuanYou can enjoy it there.

Oa-jen

This Taiwanese night market staple is made by binding oysters, eggs, and vegetables with starch, baking the mixture, and topping it with a sweet and savory sauce.

It is characterized by its unique chewy texture and rich flavor that captures the essence of oysters.

Southern Taiwan,Originating in TainanThis dish has become a staple at night markets across the country.

Mango Shaved Ice

Our shaved ice, made with plenty of fresh mangoes from Taiwan, isThe King of Taiwanese Desserts...is a figure who can be described as such.

This luxurious dessert features a generous serving of fresh mango, mango sauce, and mango ice cream atop fluffy, finely crushed ice.

Popular shops in Taipei, such as "Bing San," draw such long lines during the summer that this is a dessert you simply must try at least once during your trip to Taiwan.

Pineapple Cake

A flaky, buttery pastry filled with pineapple jamTaiwan's most popular souvenir sweetsIt is.

It’s famous in Japan too, but eating it fresh out of the oven right there is an exceptional treat.

Popular shops include "Sunny Hills" and "Jia De Bakery," and their gift sets make perfect souvenirs.

fermented tofu

A fermented tofu dish known for its distinctive, pungent aroma,Taiwanese Soul FoodOne of the

There are various types, such as deep-fried stinky tofu and spicy stinky tofu, and despite the strong smell, they have an addictive flavor once you try them.

The aroma that always wafts through the air as you stroll through the night market is sure to become a memory deeply tied to your trip to Taiwan.

About Traveling in Taiwan
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

summary

In this article, we’ve provided a comprehensive guide to Taiwan, including a list of the top 15 recommended tourist spots, suggested itineraries, the best times to visit, night markets, local cuisine, and basic information.

Taiwan: A Place Packed with History, Nature, Cuisine, and CultureIt is a charming destination where you’ll discover something new every time you visit, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat guest.

We hope this article helps you plan the best trip to Taiwan!

↓Click here to read the article.

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