Unveil the Magic of Taiwan: The Ultimate Adventure Guide to Asia’s Hidden Gem

Taiwan is sort of a secret that is located in Eastern Asia. It is among the finest locations which can lead to falling in love, a blend of old and new landscape, shocking cities, and culturally diverse surroundings, with food that is mouthwatering. Taiwan has it all to offer whether you are a nature lover, a history enthusiast or a foodie.

With its dramatic combination of the high-tech futuristic skylines and the calm mountain villages, this adorable island state is enclosed by the blue Pacific and South China waters that present a heady contrast of experiences. The topography of Taiwan is a garden of greenery, hot springs, rocky coastline and tranquil temples. The culture of the island is also very lively: the ideal combination of Chinese culture, Japanese influence, and local culture. In each step there is the warmth of its citizens, the smell of the food that is frying in the night markets and the buzz of life that is refreshing as well as warming.

Taiwan is a place that no tourist shall ever forget its blend of street hustle and bustle to the serene shores and millenary beauty of the city. Taiwan is a traveler paradise that is to be discovered due to the warm hospitality, varieties of attractions, and tasty food.

Then, consider visiting this marvelous island with the help of this ultimate guide –

1. Taipei

The capital city of Taiwan, Taipei, presents a perfect combination of both old and new with giant skyscrapers at parallel locations with ancient temples. In this case, you may start your day in one of the most recognized buildings, Taipei 101, which was once the tallest building in the world. You should also remember that there is the observatory that can offer you the amazing panorama view of the city that is just amazing.

Taipei 101 is not only a sight to behold, but also shows the development of Taiwan. A city that blends between glossy modernity and cultural heritage is presented below, where the old-fashioned markets are featured along with the designer markets. You can then go to the main museum of China which is the National Palace Museum that holds the greatest number of Chinese artifacts and artwork that date back to more than 5,000 years old. All the exhibitions are fragments of the imperial history of China, which was meticulously maintained by dynasties.

In case you want to have a spiritual experience, you must visit the Longshan Temple, a great representation of the classical Taiwanese architecture that has survived since the 18th century. When you are surrounded with smoke of incense and low-key chanting by the devotees, you will experience the strong spirituality that Taiwanese life is characterized by.

In the evening, go to the largest night market in Taiwan at Shilin Night Market and taste local food like stinky tofu, beef noodle soup, and bubble tea. It is also a good shopping experience in the market particularly on souvenirs and a glimpse of the lively nightlife in Taipei. Local games, arcades, and small food stands should not be ignored, it is the heart of the city after the sunset.

2. Taroko Gorge

After you have paid a visit to Taipei, make a scenic train ride to Hualien, the entrance to Taroko national park. Taroko Gorge is a place that cannot be left out as it has a spectacular sight in the form of marble cliffs, turquoise streams and lush plants. The park can be referred to as Taroko, which translates to magnificent and beautiful and justifiably so, the view of sheer cliffs as they walk on top of the winding rivers feels like heaven.

You may also have some spectacular beauty at the Shakadang Trail, where the clear blue waters shine through the steep canyon walls or you can challenge your courage at the Zhuilu Old Trail which provides you with the panoramic views of the gully by being hundreds of meters off the ground. In case you want something a little more adventurous, you can go river tracing, which combines hiking with swimming in the natural pools and falls of the gorge to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the latter.

It is worth a trip to the Central Cross-Island Highway site where the Eternal Spring Shrine was constructed in honor of workers who died during the construction of the highway. The shrine is a site of calm remembrance with its waterflow cascading off the mountain side as well as its traditional pagoda construction. Teruko Gorge is the embodiment of the crude, undressed nature of the wild Taiwan.

3. Sun Moon Lake 

The biggest freshwater lake in Taiwan is the Sun Moon Lake which is located in the central highlands of the island but is very calm and beautiful. This lake was named after its distinct figure; one side has a crescent moon shape and the other a round shape of the sun.

It is possible to rent a bicycle here and go round the scenic Sun Moon Lake Bike Trail which is frequently rated as one of the most beautiful cycling paths in the entire world. You will also encounter beautiful villages, woody hills, and observation towers that will be overlooking the glittering blue water. Another spellbinding view is a boat tour of the lake, mainly during a sunset when the golden rays play on the water.

The next objects are the nearby Wenwu Temple which is located on top of a hill and that is a mixture of Confucian, Taoist and Buddhist architectures and offers an awesome view of the lake. Another thing to see is the local Thao village in the Thao Tribe: this is an opportunity to study about the culture, crafts and music of one of the indigenous Taiwanese tribes. To add the touch of luxury, most of the lakeside resorts provide relaxing stays with hot springs and spas, where people can relax after a day of sightseeing.

4. Tainan

The oldest city in Taiwan is the city of Tainan and is commonly referred to as the cultural centre of the island. It is the past capital and is full of old temples, traditional markets and colonial era structures that narrate the history of Taiwan with its multiple layers.

Start with Anping Fort and the Anping Tree House where the banyan roots have penetrated an old warehouse to create a crazy mixture of man-made buildings and nature. This is a dreamy location because of the knotty roots and filtered sunlight of photographers.

The other notable landmark is the Chihkan Tower which is an ancient fortress that was first constructed by the Dutch in the 17th century. The combination of the colonial and local influences in centuries is manifested in its red brick construction, intricate carvings, and traditional Chinese pavilions.

Once you are hungry, head to the Tainan Flower Night Market where it is considered to be one of the largest in the southern parts of Taiwan. In this case, you will be able to taste such well-known local dishes as coffin bread, shrimp rolls, and oyster omelets. The market is full of color, smell, and liveliness, a real exhibition of the vibrant Taiwanese street food culture.

5. Beaches of Kenting

Kenting National Park, with its crystal clear water, coral reefs and vibrant nightlife is located at the tip of the island in the south. Comparable to a tropical paradise, Kenting is the place where the fun spirit of the island collides with nature.

Spend some time on Baishawan (White Sand Bay) or South Bay where the soft sands and the turquoise waves form postcard-perfect views. In case you feel like adventure then you can go snorkeling through the colorful reefs, attempt windsurfing or even go on a scuba diving trip to see the marine biodiversity.

At night when it gets to Kenting, it becomes a busy place of life – the Kenting Night Market is filled with food stands, bars and live music. It is the ideal spot to enjoy local food, to meet other travellers and to imbibe the party spirit that characterizes this seaside retreat.

Other than beaches, Kenting has hidden trails and points of view in the national park. It has the Eluanbi Lighthouse also known as the Light of East Asia standing proudly at the southernmost point of the island panoramic views of the converging seas.

Experience Taiwan: Where Moment comes to life.

Taiwan is a land of opposites existing in perfect balance between the contemporary wonder of Taipei and the primitive spirit of Tainan, between the dramatic scenery of Taroko and the calm shores of Sun Moon Lake. It is an Island that asks you to take your time, relax, and relate to it, to its people, its scenery, and its tales.

Taiwan has a story of tenacity, ingenuity and unity in every street, mountain and meal. As soon as you feel its magic, you will have it clear why this island is not only a destination, but a feeling that would still remain with you even after you have gone.