Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of China (Taiwan)
CapitalTaipei
Population23.3 million
Area36,197 km² (13,976 sq mi)
LanguagesChinese
CurrencyNew Taiwan dollar ($)
TimezoneUTC+08:00
RegionAsia / Eastern Asia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

To experience the best of Taiwan, visit the iconic Taipei 101, explore the scenic Sun Moon Lake, and indulge in the vibrant night markets, which showcase the country's unique blend of traditional and modern culture.

Top Attractions

AttractionLocationTypeWhy Visit
Taipei 101TaipeiSkyscraperFormerly the world's tallest building, with panoramic views of the city
National Palace MuseumTaipeiMuseumHome to the largest collection of Chinese art and artifacts, including the famous Jadeite Cabbage
Sun Moon LakeNantouScenic LakeTaiwan's largest freshwater lake, offering boat rides and stunning scenery
Taroko National ParkHualienNational ParkMarble-walled cliffs, hiking trails, and waterfalls in a stunning gorge
Kenting National ParkPingtungNational ParkTropical forests, coral reefs, and white-sand beaches at the southern tip of Taiwan
Longshan TempleTaipeiTempleHistoric temple with a mix of Chinese architectural styles and a famous snake alley
Yehliu GeoparkNew TaipeiGeoparkUnique geological formations, including the iconic Queen's Head and Fairy's Shoe
Jiufen Old StreetNew TaipeiHistoric StreetNarrow alleys and traditional tea houses in a former gold rush town
Tamsui Old StreetNew TaipeiHistoric StreetWaterfront promenade with street food, shops, and historic forts
Shilin Night MarketTaipeiNight MarketOne of Taiwan's largest and most famous night markets, with a wide range of food and shopping options

Unique Experiences

  • Take a hot spring bath in the scenic town of Beitou, surrounded by lush greenery and historic architecture
  • Visit a traditional tea farm in the hills of Nantou, where you can learn about the production process and taste some of Taiwan's famous oolong tea
  • Explore the night markets of Taiwan, where you can try local street food, buy souvenirs, and experience the vibrant atmosphere
  • Attend a traditional Taiwanese opera performance, with its unique blend of music, dance, and acrobatics
  • Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Taiwanese dishes, such as beef noodle soup and stinky tofu
  • Go hiking in the rugged mountains of Taroko National Park, with its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife

Outdoor & Nature

  • Visit Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan's largest freshwater lake, and take a boat ride or hike in the surrounding hills
  • Explore Taroko National Park, with its marble-walled cliffs, hiking trails, and waterfalls
  • Relax on the beaches of Kenting National Park, with its tropical forests, coral reefs, and white-sand beaches
  • Go surfing or kiteboarding in the coastal town of Taitung, with its consistent winds and waves
  • Take a scenic drive along the East Coast National Scenic Area, with its stunning coastal views and rugged landscape
  • Visit the Yehliu Geopark, with its unique geological formations and stunning ocean views

Cultural Experiences

  • Visit the National Palace Museum, with its vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts
  • Explore the Longshan Temple, with its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere
  • Attend a traditional Taiwanese festival, such as the Lantern Festival or the Dragon Boat Festival
  • Take a calligraphy class and learn about the art of traditional Chinese writing
  • Visit the Taipei City Hall, with its impressive architecture and historic significance
  • Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei, with its innovative exhibitions and performances

Hidden Gems

  • Visit the Jiufen Old Street, with its narrow alleys and traditional tea houses
  • Explore the Tamsui Old Street, with its waterfront promenade and historic forts
  • Take a day trip to the Penghu Islands, with their stunning scenery and unique marine life
  • Go hiking in the Shei-Pa National Park, with its rugged mountains and diverse wildlife
  • Visit the Taiwanese Aboriginal Culture Park, with its traditional villages and cultural performances

Day Trips

  • Take a day trip to the Yehliu Geopark (1 hour from Taipei), with its unique geological formations and stunning ocean views
  • Visit the Jiufen Old Street (1 hour from Taipei), with its narrow alleys and traditional tea houses
  • Explore the Sun Moon Lake (2.5 hours from Taipei), with its scenic boat rides and stunning scenery
  • Go hiking in the Taroko National Park (2 hours from Hualien), with its marble-walled cliffs and waterfalls
  • Visit the Kenting National Park (4 hours from Kaohsiung), with its tropical forests, coral reefs, and white-sand beaches

Planning Tips

Suggested itineraries: 3-day (visit Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, and Taroko National Park), 7-day (explore the east coast, visit Kenting National Park, and take a day trip to the Penghu Islands), 14-day (deep exploration of Taiwan's culture, history, and natural beauty, with visits to museums, temples, and national parks). Key tips: book accommodations and transportation in advance, try local street food, and learn some basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience.