Taiwan is growing into a very fascinating travel destination despite its small size. With its distinct culture, cuisine, and breathtaking natural scenery, Taiwan draws tourists and is highly recommended on any traveler’s itinerary.
Taipei
Taipei City, the cultural center of Taiwan, is the first stop on the journey. It has excellent entertainment options. This young city is well-known for its enormous architectural projects and breathtakingly beautiful landmarks, which draw a lot of tourists to come see and explore.
National Palace Museum
- Address: No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00 (except Monday)
- Entrance fee: NT $350 for regular ticket & free for Zhishan Garden
The Qin, Tang, Song, and Qing dynasties’ many reigning emperors have amassed a vast collection of treasures that are housed in the world-class Taipei National Palace Museum. The national army occupied the key areas during World War II to stop invaders from stealing China’s priceless national assets.
The architecture of the Taipei National Palace Museum is reminiscent of Northern Chinese palaces. Approximately 700,000 historical artifacts are kept in the museum today, making it the world’s most extensive and valuable collection of ancient Chinese artifacts. The complete collection, which reflects China’s 5,000-year history of remarkable accomplishments, consists of ceramics, paintings, and other works.
Longshan Temple
- Address: No. 211, Guangzhou St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 06:00 – 22:00
- Entrance fee: Free
Built in 1738 by settlers from Fujian, Longshan Temple is one of the biggest and most ancient temples in Taiwan. After enduring the severe destruction of the war, it underwent numerous renovations and is now a source of great pride for Taiwan’s temple system. There are also hundreds of beautiful statues of Buddhists, Taoists, and Confucians. Visitors can admire the two bronze dragons and the intricately carved dragon and phoenix shapes on the dome directly in front of the street. Everyone is left with an enduring impression of beauty by all of them.
Taipei 101
- Address: 89F., No. 7, Sec. 5, Xinyi Rd., Xinyi Dist., Taipei City 110, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 10:00 – 21:00
- Entrance fee as follow
Type of ticket | Category | Fee (NT$) |
General Ticket | Children under 115cm | Free |
Children above 115cm | 540 | |
Adult | 600 | |
Skylin460 | 3,000 |
One of the best examples of modernist architecture in Taipei that combines traditional Asian aesthetics is this 101-story skyscraper. With an architectural height of 509.2 meters and a roof height of 1,474 feet, it is the most impressive skyscraper in the entire world. It boasted the world’s tallest sundial, and on New Year’s Eve, spectacular fireworks show takes place here. There are observation decks both inside and outside the tower where you can get a breathtaking view of the city.
Chang Kei-shek Memorial Hall
- Address: Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00
- Entrance fee: Free
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, which was constructed in 1980, honors leader Chiang Kai-shek and provides insight into Chinese history during the 20th century. The imposing architecture, complete with a dome system and an interior campus that is beautifully landscaped, will astound visitors greatly. Visitors must climb 89 steps to enter the temple, which stands for the leader Chiang Kai-shek’s age. The area of sacred worship is gradually approached by visitors after passing a square with tidy clipped green trees.
The memorial house’s four white marble walls, red background, and moss green tiles—which correspond to the colors of the Chinese flag during Chiang Kai-shek’s rule—are its main features. A massive bronze statue bearing the meaningful words “Ethics, Democracy, and Science” and a happy expression sits in the center. You can also take in musical and dance performances at the National Theater and the Concert Hall to learn about other cultures.
Taipei Zoo
- Address: No. 30, Section 2, Xinguang Rd, Wenshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00 (Daytime) | 09:00 -16:30 (Animals Exhibits) | 16:00 – 20:00 (Every Saturday in July and August for Nighttime)
- Entrance fee as follow
Type of ticket | Category | Fee (NT$) |
Entrance ticket | Child 0-5 years old | Free |
Regular | 60 | |
Senior over 65 years old | Free | |
Education Center | 20 | |
Shuttle Train | 5 |
The largest zoo in Southeast Asia and one of the top ten largest city zoos worldwide is Taipei Zoo. This location features over 400 animal species and is divided into themed indoor and outdoor spaces. Visitors can specifically view some unusual butterfly species, Chinese pandas, koala houses, etc. in 07 indoor exhibition areas. Furthermore, the Taipei Zoo features eight outdoor areas that are separated by environment and geographical field and offer people educational value. Visitors can easily see typical animals that are unique to Taiwan when they come here.
Raohe Street Night Market
- Address: Raohe St, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 17:00 – 23:00
- Entrance fee: Free
Every year, tourists flock to the Nhieu Ha night market because of its vibrant nighttime atmosphere. Despite only covering a 600m section of road, there are over 500 stalls selling jewelry, accessories, necessities, and other items. It is highly recommended that visitors try Taipei cuisine at least once while they are here. Stinky tofu, grilled squid, milk tea, pepper cakes, and pork rib soup are among the delectable dishes served.
Huashan 1914 Creative Park
- Address: No. 1, Section 1, Bade Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: All day
- Entrance fee: Free
Huashan 1914 Creative Park is a creative hub that is tucked away in Taipei’s Zhongzheng District and has developed into one of the most fascinating destinations to explore in Taiwan.
The 19,800 square meter park is now home to up-and-coming creatives and artists from Taipei. Take a leisurely stroll around the premises to witness vibrant displays, striking artwork, and distinctive eateries and stores. The multipurpose park hosts numerous theater productions, musical performances, and cultural events that you could attend.
Yangmingshan National Park
- Address: No. 112, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 16:30
- Entrance fee: Free
Yangminshan National Park is one of Taiwan’s busiest national parks for good reason—it’s regarded as one of the best places to hike in the country and among the first urban quiet parks worldwide. The hilly landscape offers hiking trails, hot springs, and locations to see cherry blossoms for visitors to enjoy. In addition to all of that, the park is home to Mount Qixing, Taiwan’s tallest dormant volcano, and 1,400 distinct plant species.
Taichung
Located in Taiwan’s center, Taichung was planned by the Japanese and went on to become a significant cultural and economic hub. In contrast to Taipei, Taichung offers a blend of rich natural surroundings and modernity, resulting in a serene and tranquil atmosphere within the magnificent city.
National Taichung Theater
- Address: No. 101, Section 2, Huilai Rd, Xitun District, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 11:30 – 21:00 (Sunday, Tuesday – Thursday) | 11:30 – 22:00 (Friday & Saturday)
- Entrance fee: Free
Since its September 2016 opening, Taiwan’s The National Taichung Threater has evolved into both a state-of-the-art performing arts venue and a singularly innovative architectural structure. The theater has three internationally-recognized professional performance spaces: the Grand Theater, which has 2009 seats, the Playhouse, which has 800 seats, and the Black Box, which has 200 seats. Every location can be customized to meet the requirements of various production formats. The theater also features a multipurpose area known as the “Corner Salon” where public lectures and educational activities can take place. For residents and guests to stroll leisurely, the rooftop Sky Garden and the green outdoor square are fantastic locations.
National Museum of Natural Science
- Address: No. 1, Guanqian Rd, North District, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00 (except Monday)
- Entrance fee as follow
Type of ticket | Category | Fee (NT$) |
Galleries | Children aged under 6 | Free |
Student 06 – 12 years old | 50 | |
Student aged 12 and above | 70 | |
Adult | 100 | |
Space Theater (IMAX) | Children aged under 6 | 50 |
Student 06 – 12 years old | 100 | |
Student aged 12 and above | 100 | |
Adult | 100 | |
3D Theater | Children aged under 6 | 30 |
Student 06 – 12 years old | 70 | |
Student aged 12 and above | 70 | |
Adult | 70 | |
Tropical Rainforest Greenhouse | Children aged under 6 | Free |
Student 06 – 12 years old | 10 | |
Student aged 12 and above | 20 | |
Adult | 20 | |
Science Center | Children aged under 6 | Free |
Student 06 – 12 years old | 10 | |
Student aged 12 and above | 20 | |
Adult | 20 |
The National Museum of Natural Science, one of the museums that receives a lot of visitors each year, is spread across 22 hectares and has numerous sections that are organized according to distinct themes. Astronomy, space science, paleontology, ecology, gems and minerals, Taiwanese aborigines, and tropical plants are among the subjects covered by the dozens of permanent exhibition areas. In addition to meeting the demands of tourism, the museum brings relevant educational knowledge to bear. As a result, this location is also referred to as Taiwan’s largest entertainment and educational complex.
National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts
- Address: No. 2, Section 1, Wuquan W Rd, West District, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00 (except Monday)
- Entrance fee: Free
1988 saw the founding of the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts (NTMoFA). Due to the extensive damage caused by the September 21st earthquake that year, it was temporarily closed for reconstruction in 1999. It reopened in July 2004 with an entirely new appearance. Collecting pieces by Taiwanese artists and examining the distinctive qualities of modern and contemporary Taiwanese art are given top priority. With the Public Outdoor Sculpture Park included, the Museum’s outdoor courtyard totals 102,000 square meters, making the NTMoFA one of Asia’s largest art museums.
Rainbow Village
- Address: No. 25, Lane 56, Chun’an Road, Nantun District, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 18:00
- Entrance fee: Free
The Nantun District of Taichung is home to Rainbow Village, a tiny community well-known for its vibrantly painted streets and homes. One of Taiwan’s most colorful spots is this distinctive village, which is also a lot of fun to visit. When the village was first established as a haven for veterans, the government intended to relocate and demolish it. Mr. Huang began painting brightly colored pictures of comic book characters and animals on his house in an effort to protest, and his neighbors want him to do the same to their homes. Due to his efforts, which attracted the attention of tourists, just 11 of the original 1,200 houses still stand.
Feng Chia Night Market
- Address: Wenhua Rd, Xitun District, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 18:00 – 03:00
- Entrance fee: Free
It’s understandable why the Fengjia Night Market has grown to be a popular tourist attraction for both locals and visitors due to its wide variety of vendors, mouthwatering street cuisine, and lively atmosphere. One of the biggest and most well-liked night markets in Taiwan, it provides a distinctive dining and shopping experience that guests will not soon forget, along with a window into the core of Taiwanese culture.
The delicious local fare and street food offered at Fengjia Night Market are among its main draws. Apart from providing street food, the Fengjia night market provides an array of shopping options ranging from clothing and accessories to customary Taiwanese mementos, catering to the preferences of each patron.
Dajia Jenn Lann Temple
- Address: No. 158, Shuntian Rd, Dajia District, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 06:00 – 21:30
- Entrance fee: Free
The most well-known Mazu temple in Taiwan is Dajia Jenn Lann Temple. The purpose of this Qing-era temple was to pay homage to Mazu, the sea goddess. Founded in 1730 as a modest shrine dedicated to Lin Moniang, a holy woman from Fujian province, the temple has grown and changed over the years to become one of Taiwan’s busiest and most vibrant Mazu temples. It is well-known for the yearly pilgrimage that takes place in March. The temple’s treasures are the Golden Mazu in the Mazu Cultural Museum’s basement and the violet jade Matzu of Jenn Lann Temple. Mazu is now regarded as one of Taichung’s three treasures.
Wufeng Lin Family Garden
- Address: No. 26, Minsheng Rd, Wufeng District, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00
- Entrance fee: NT $250
The Wufeng Lin Family Mansion is a luxurious and elegant location where one can still observe the traditional Chinese architecture that used to be found in the mansions of Taiwan’s wealthiest people. Considering the impact the Lin family has had on Taiwanese history, this is a must-visit location for anyone looking to comprehend the timeless nature of wealth and power.
Maple Garden
- Address: No. 30, Chaofu Rd, Xitun District, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: All day
- Entrance fee: Free
Strolling through the Maple Garden is a visual treat in any season! In Taichung City, Maple Garden is a distinctive U-shaped green space used for leisure by city dwellers, and it’s situated next to Taiwan Boulevard. Its three hectares are home to an observatory bridge, red trees, green grass, and a lake. It’s a fantastic spot for working out, going on a date, and having a conversation walk. There’s a reassuring verdancy during the day, and nocturnal lighting that never lets up.
Yilan
Yilan is situated in a unique way since three of its sides face the mountains and one faces the ocean. When visiting Yilan, tourists can immerse themselves in serene rivers, crystal-clear lakes, or towering mountains that provide breathtaking vistas. Additionally, don’t pass up the chance to engage in distinctive cultural activities in Yilan.
Lanyang Museum
- Address: No. 750, Section 3, Qingyun Rd, Toucheng Township, Yilan County, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00
- Entrance fee: NT $100
This museum, which is named after the Lanyang Plain, is located next to Wushigang Harbor (烏石港) and educates visitors about Yilan’s natural beauty, history, and culture. Kris Yao used natural elements like cuesta, a rock formation frequently seen along Taiwan’s northeast coast, as inspiration when designing the museum. The building pays homage to Wushi Port, also known as Black Rock Harbor, by looking like a massive black rock from a distance. Up close, though, the structure is genuinely a work of art. From top to bottom, there are two spaces for outstanding permanent exhibitions and themed galleries representing mountain, plain and ocean.
Luodong Forestry Culture Park
- Address: No. 118, Zhongzheng N Rd, Luodong Township, Yilan County, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00
- Entrance fee: Free
The site of the former Luodong Administration Office and raft log storage pond, which was used to transport lumber from the forests at Baxian Mountain, Alishan, and Taiping Mountain, is now home to Luodong Forestry Culture Park. The 16-hectare park is conveniently accessible because it is situated in the heart of Luodong. This place offers leisure, education, culture, and nature observation with its log storage pond, aquatic plant pond, forest railway, bamboo train station, steam locomotive, cultural exhibition hall, lush woods, and pondside trails.
National Center for Traditional Arts
- Address: No. 201, Section 2, Wubin Rd, Wujie Township, Yilan County, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00
- Entrance fee: NT $150
The National Center for Traditional Arts, which is situated in Yilan next to the Dongshan River, was created with the intention of maintaining and advancing traditional Taiwanese arts.
The National Center for Traditional Arts is a 24-hectare complex park that offers the public of Taiwan access to traditional arts and the chance to engage in DIY projects. It features a Traditional Theater, Open Air Theater, Modern Theater, Wen-Chang Temple, Exhibition Center, Traditional Handicraft Workshop, Traditional Music Hall, Library, and lodging area. There are many customary games, experiences, and activities available for tourists to learn more about Yilan’s intriguing past. There will be fascinating exhibitions held at specific times of the year.
Luodong Night Market
- Address: Xingdong Rd, Luodong Township, Yilan County, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 15:00 – 00:00
- Entrance fee: Free
The biggest night market in Yilan is called Luodong, and like other night markets, it’s always quite bustling with vendors and customers. When visiting, guests can sample the local specialties, which include duck noodles, potatoes, lamb soup, onion cakes, and stinky tofu, among other dishes with distinct and memorable flavors. Since its opening in 1990, the Luodong night market has grown to be one of the area’s most popular tourist attractions.
Kaohsiung
Renowned for its Buddhist temples and regarded as Taiwan’s Buddhist capital, Kaohsiung is a highly recommended location for travelers or pilgrims wishing to honor Buddha. It is not only the main economic hub of Southern Taiwan, but it’s also a worthwhile stop on your travels through Taiwan.
Fo Guang Shan
- Address: No. 1, Tongling Road, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00
- Entrance fee: Free
Situated in the southern part of Taiwan, Fo Guang Shan holds significant spiritual value for the local community and has grown to be one of the country’s four biggest Buddhist organizations. The Buddha Museum, Sutra warehouse, and Fo Guang Shan monastery are all part of Fo Guang Shan, which is shaped like a fragrant lotus on a mountain. With Buddha statues, white elephant statues, lions, reliefs, and other finely and painstakingly carved pieces, the complex is enormous. The most notable is the 108-meter-tall Buddha statue, which is located in the middle of the temple and contains 100 handwritten copies of the Van Bao Tam Sutra, all of which were written by Buddhists.
National Science and Technology Museum
- Address: No. 720, Jiuru 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00 (except Monday)
- Entrance fee: NT $100
The National Museum of Science and Technology, which has been officially open to the public since 1997, is the biggest national social education venue in Southern Taiwan in addition to being a premier museum of applied science. This 19-hectare space is split between an IMAX 3D theater, three temporary galleries, and a permanent gallery. The focus of every exhibition program at the museum is on the wonders of technology in social life and how it has advanced steadily over time. Visitors learn more beneficial information about modern technological life through activities.
Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
- Address: No. 9, Liantan Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00
- Entrance fee: Free
Constructed in 1976, the Tiger and Dragon Pagodas is a temple made up of two towering pagodas, each seven stories high. The “dragon” is honored in one tower, and the “tiger” in the other. Because of the towers’ unique architecture and design, this temple is now a popular tourist destination. It is unlike any other temple in the world.
The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are located approximately 700 meters south of the Spring and Autumn Pavilions. The mouth of the tiger is the exit and the dragon’s throat is the entrance. Turning bad luck into good fortune is symbolized by going through a tiger’s mouth and out of a dragon’s throat. Making the proper entry and exit through the dragon and tiger, respectively, is the custom; get it wrong and you’ll suffer bad luck! Within are paintings that show scenes from heaven and hell along with China’s 24 most obedient sons. These paintings serve as both a warning against wrongdoing and an inspiration for good deeds throughout one’s lifetime.
The Pier2 Art Center
- Address: No. 1, Dayong Rd, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (Monday – Thursday) | 10:00 – 19:00 (Friday – Sunday)
- Entrance fee as follow
Type of ticket | Category | Fee (NT $) |
Contemporary Art in Pier-2 (CAIP) or exhibitions in A.C.G.N Warehouse | Child 07 – 12 years old/ 115 – 150cm | 60 |
Adult | 80 | |
Senior aged 65 | 45 | |
Contemporary Art in Pier-2 (CAIP), The Memories of Pier-2 Warehouses, and exhibitions in A.C.G.N Warehouse | Child 07 – 12 years old/ 115 – 150cm | 100 |
Adult | 150 | |
Senior aged 65 | 75 | |
Pier-2 Tower | 10 |
The Pier2, the epicenter of liberal art, is a must-visit for fans of street art. Constructed atop an old warehouse, The Pier2 offers entertainment venues, dining options, cafés, galleries, exhibition spaces, and outdoor museums close to the city’s seaport. Street artists frequent all of these locations, showcasing their boundless inventiveness using a variety of mediums to produce striking modern masterpieces.
Ruifeng Night Market
- Address: Yucheng Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 17:00 – 00:00 (except Monday & Wednesday)
- Entrance fee: Free
Kaohsiung’s biggest and busiest night market is Ruifeng Night Market (also known as Rueifong Night Market). It’s conveniently close to the Kaohsiung Arena MRT station, which makes it a popular tourist destination. Along with games, clothing, and other shopping, you can get every kind of traditional Taiwan night market fare here, including fried squid, fried octopus balls, papaya milk, milk tea, and chicken and beef steak.
National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts-Weiwuying
- Address: No. 1, Sanduo 1st Rd, Fengshan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Opening hours: 11:00 – 21:00
- Entrance fee as follow
Type of ticket | Fee (NT$) |
Daytime Tours | 100 |
Hall Tours | 150 |
Nighttime Tours | 100 |
Audio Tour | 150 |
In Kaohsiung City’s Fengshan District, the Wei Wu Ying Cultural Center is situated on the site of a former military barrack. The largest performing arts and music hall in East Asia, as well as the first international performance art venue in southern Taiwan, are located on the 66.6-hectare site. The center, which is slated to open in October 2018, will also give southern Taiwan access to spaces for talent development and art education.