Accommodations
Taiwan is an excellent destination for travelers looking for a unique cultural experience. One of the first things to consider when visiting the island is where to stay. Taiwan has many accommodations to suit every traveler, from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
In this guide, we’ll look at some of the different accommodation options available in Taiwan:
Hotels
Taiwan is divided into two regions – the northern region, the most heavily populated and industrialized part of Taiwan, and the southern region, which consists of the Taiwan Strait Islands and other small islands. Hotels in both areas range from budget class to five-star resorts.
Hotel chains like Agoda, Marriott, and Hilton are relatively common in the northern region. These are usually located close to major cities or within easy reach of public transportation networks. In addition, budget hotels such as LOHAS Hotel ByEleven, Homeinns, and ibis Styles can also be found throughout major cities like Taipei, Taoyuan, and Hsinchu.
In the southern region, experienced travelers may prefer staying at traditional four or five-star hotels such as WuDingYan (武頂燕), National Taichung Hotel (台中國家飯店) or Ambassador Hotel (亞曼仕大飯店). Alternatively, travelers may wish to stay with Taiwanese-style guesthouses located throughout villages like Hungchou (虹州) or Chihpian Street (赤坂街). These guesthouses offer a more personal experience during your travels in Taiwan.
Hostels
Hostels are becoming increasingly popular on the Taiwan backpacker trail as they provide a budget-friendly alternative to hotels. These dormitory-style rooms, ranging from five to forty beds, offer a communal atmosphere and (often) cheaper sleeping arrangements.
Most hostels serve both mixed or single-gender rooms, as well as private rooms with shared bathrooms. People of all ages are welcomed at hostels. There are usually common areas for socializing, a kitchen for self-catering, computers for working/internet access, and even wi-fi in some public areas like lobbies or recreational spaces. In addition, hostels can offer a range of amenities, from complimentary continental breakfast to organized activities like movie nights or trivia competitions.
Remember that when booking a hostel, you should tell the staff if you have any special requests, such as privacy needs, room preferences, or arrival times – these details can help make your stay more comfortable. Also, with safety being an important consideration when traveling, most hostels will have locked doors with key cards or code entry after hours. Some may even include a bag storage area if you intend to explore the city further.
Airbnb
Airbnb is becoming increasingly popular in Taiwan, especially in cosmopolitan cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung. Here, travelers will find various options, from budget-friendly shared apartments to luxurious standalone houses. Depending on your preference, Airbnb can be an ideal choice for travelers seeking both affordability and convenience.
One of the main benefits of staying at an Airbnb is that you can rent accommodation directly from locals or property owners. It allows you to get personalized recommendations on things to do and places to visit and offers an alternative to hotel stays. In addition, most Airbnb hosts can provide helpful insights that make your trip more memorable and enjoyable.
Aside from offering a unique insight into local life, Airbnbs are generally located closer to city centers than most hotels – providing its guests with better access to local sights and attractions while avoiding the hassle of the taxi or public transport travel.
When choosing accommodation via Airbnb, travelers are free to set their own rules since guests rent private property owned by someone else. No one else’s rules apply when staying at Airbnbs – meaning it may be more suitable for certain types of travelers who need more freedom with things like noise levels and overnight visitors.
Transportation
Traveling around Taiwan can be a breeze as the country has an extensive transport network that covers the entire island. Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose from various options, such as flights, trains, buses, and taxis.
In this section of the guide, we’ll discuss the different transportation options available in Taiwan to help you plan your trip:
Airports
Two leading international airports service Taiwan–Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)–as well as several domestic airports.
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Taiwan, located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from downtown Taipei. The airport has terminals–Terminal 1 and Terminal 2–which respectively handle flights to destinations in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. In addition, the airport offers easy access to the city through various transportation options, including buses, high-speed rail, and taxis.
Kaohsiung International Airport is located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) from downtown Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city. The airport mainly serves flights to Asian cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Tokyo; however, it also services flights to other parts of the world, such as Canada and Australia. Passengers can take a bus or taxi from the arrivals hall to all significant points of interest in Kaohsiung City Center.
There are several domestic airports throughout Taiwan, including Taipei Songshan Airport(TSA), Chiayi City(RMQ), Taichung Ching Chuan Kang Airport ( RMQ), Hualien Longyangshan Airport(HUN), Taitung Municipal Airport(TTT), Lanyu TownshipAirport(KYD). In addition, all major cities can be accessed via one of the many domestic airlines operating within Taiwan, such as EVA Air or UNI Air. Domestic airlines offer many daily flights at competitive prices, making them highly popular among locals and tourists.
Buses
Buses are one of the most popular forms of public transportation in Taiwan. Buses are relatively cheap and available all over the island, allowing access to rural areas other than those accessible by train. In addition, private and public buses can travel around the island and reach small towns and villages.
Taiwan’s long-distance buses run from provincial cities to almost anywhere on the main island, from Sudong in the north down to Kaohsiung City. All buses feature amenities such as air conditioning, wi-fi, and bathrooms, making them a comfortable option for long-distance journeys. Fares range from NT$300 – NT$700, depending on the distance.
Local city buses also exist in urban centers such as Taipei that cover most of their respective cities’ areas. Fares depend on the distance traveled but generally cost around NT$15 – NT$30 per journey with a reusable EasyCard system which must be purchased ahead of time at convenience stores or directly through transport terminals before riding any bus service.
Given its affordability and abundance in Taiwan, buses continue to remain one of the top options of transportation for locals as well as tourists up and down the island looking to explore all that it has to offer, both close by just beyond its cities’ outskirts.
Taxis
Taxis are convenient for travel in cities and urban areas but can be more expensive than other means of transportation. Look for designated taxi stands with lines of waiting vehicles or hail one from the street. Most taxis have their meter running from the moment you step in, and it should cost NT$ 70 (US$ 2.3) to get into a cab – even if you don’t plan on going anywhere! The regular fare is around NT$ 85 (US$ 2.8) for the first 1.32 km, then an extra NT$ 5 (US$ 0.2)/km after that, along with additional charges for waiting time and tolls when applicable. All taxi trips come with a printed receipt, which is helpful if you’d like to file a complaint or are confused about the fare charges at the end of your trip.
Some taxi drivers accept tips; US $1 or NT $50 should be enough unless they’ve carried heavy luggage and/or gone out of their way to help you find your destination or purchase items on your behalf. Note that some taxi apps may be available in Taiwan depending on your location and service provider; it’s always worth checking before taking a street-hailed cab journey!
Attractions
Taiwan is a country full of stunning attractions. From its vibrant city life to its mesmerizing countryside, there is something for everyone in Taiwan. From the stunning temples in the historical city of Tainan to the beaches of Kenting National Park, you will find something to captivate your heart.
In this guide, we will look at some of the most popular attractions to explore in Taiwan:
Museums
Taiwan is home to several world-renowned museums and galleries showcasing the country’s rich and diverse heritage. From contemporary art exhibitions to ancient relics, there is something for every art enthusiast. So whether you’re a history buff or just looking to learn more about local culture, these premier attractions will give you an in-depth experience of Taiwan.
Some of the top museums in Taiwan include:
- National Palace Museum – Located in Taipei, this museum boasts 8th-century imperial artifacts discovered by fleeing the Manchu dynasty court during Japan’s occupation of China.
- Taipei Fine Arts Museum – Dedicated to showcasing contemporary art since 1983, this museum features paintings, installations, photographs, and sculptures from Taiwanese and international artists.
- National Taiwan Craft Research Institute – A government-funded research organization dedicated to preserving and displaying the country’s traditional artisan works, including aborigine crafts, textiles, porcelain, and bamboo carving.
- Museum of World Religions – This museum offers visitors an introduction to the varying beliefs that influence Taiwan’s development with exhibits on Eastern Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity with texts from around the world.
Whether it’s modern artworks, ancient relics on display, or unique craftworks from across generations that are highlighted throughout Taiwanese museums, these must-see cultural attractions provide an informative look at Taiwanese history and culture for travelers visiting Taipei and beyond.
Natural Wonders
Taiwan is home to various natural attractions, from stunning coastlines and hot springs to several impressive mountain ranges. Taiwan’s diverse terrain also features streams, waterfalls, and lush wetlands.
Nature lovers will find a wealth of opportunities to explore the country’s wild places in the form of national parks, trails, and a network of dedicated green spaces. Even the busy cities of Taipei and Kaohsiung boast incredible public parks for those seeking a temporary escape from urban life.
Popular natural sites include:
- Taroko National Park in the east features stunning marble gorges and crystal-clear waters.
- Sun Moon Lake in central Taiwan provides visitors a tranquil retreat and hikers with motivating views of classic Taiwanese beauty.
- Kenting National Park at the tip of the Hengchun Peninsula offers beach activities for fun-seekers.
- Lush forests in Yushan National Park—the island’s highest peak—in southern Taiwan.
Beyond incredible landscapes full of natural wonders, you’ll also find hot springs all over Taiwan, ranging from luxurious spa resorts to simple roadside spas—perfect for those seeking R&R away from city life.
Cultural Sites
Taiwan is a cultural melting pot, once a part of the ancient Chinese dynasties, shaped by various colonial powers, and now thriving as an independent nation. It has all the ingredients for the perfect cultural experience: temples, palaces, monuments, and museums. Here are some of the most interesting cultural sites that no traveler should miss when visiting Taiwan.
Temples: Most of Taiwan’s temples date back hundreds of years and blend Taoist and Buddhist beliefs. One must-visit temple is Lungshan Temple in Taipei City, one of Asia’s oldest temples. You will find impressive altars dedicated to various gods, including Guan Yin and Mazu Goddess.
Museums: Head to one of Taiwan’s many museums for a dose of modern culture and history. National Palace Museum in Taipei City houses more than 700 000 Chinese Imperial artifacts like ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy works brought to Taiwan during the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Another important museum is Chimei Museum in Tainan City, which houses art collections ranging from European furniture to musical instruments worldwide.
Monuments: Hungary Heroes Monument at Chungcheng Park in Taipei City clocks up an attendance count that rivals some traditional temples – such is its popularity! The complex honors 71 heroes who sacrificed their lives for the Taiwanese people during Japanese rule from 1895-1945 – stories about them are inscribed onto stone tablets placed around this memorial park. The nearby 228 Memorial Day Park also offers insight into another traumatic chapter in recent history – surrounding a horrific shooting incident on 28 February 1947 that led directly to martial law (the White Terror) being declared throughout Taiwan until 1987!
Cuisine
Taiwan is known for its unique and flavourful cuisine, featuring intricate dishes that combine various ingredients and cultures. From local specialties such as stinky tofu and beef noodle soup to steamed dumplings and bubble tea, Taiwanese food is a delicious mix of Chinese and Japanese influences.
Here, we’ll explore some of the must-try delicacies and the best places to eat them:
Local Dishes
Taiwanese cuisine is a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian food cultures. The numerous varieties of flavors and ingredients make it a unique culinary experience. Rice, seafood, and pork are some of the main ingredients in local dishes, and each region has its signature dishes that reflect the cultural diversity of Taiwan.
Typical dishes in Taiwan include lu rou fan (minced pork with rice) and gua bao (steamed sandwich buns filled with braised pork). Other popular items include oyster omelets, bubble tea, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), and shilin night market snacks. In addition, many restaurants offer all-you-can-eat buffets featuring a variety of seafood dishes as well as fried rice and noodles.
Local favorites also include:
- Barbecued seafood cooked over an open fire made from coconut husks.
- Hot pot dining experiences feature raw lumps of meat and cooked potatoes, mushrooms, and vegetables cooked together in a savory broth.
- Braised meats like duck or ribs are stewed slowly to create tender yet flavorful morsels.
Taiwanese snacks such as yan du xian (salted duck soup), mochi ice cream available at night markets, or savory desserts such as taro cake are deliciously adventurous options for adventurous eaters looking for something new to explore!
Street Food
Taiwan is renowned for its variety of street food, with flavors that run the gamut from mild to spicy. Taiwanese street food stands are located throughout the country and are typically clustered together in particular areas in cities and towns. There’s something for everyone, from hot and juicy pork buns to steamed soup dumplings and fish balls served in broth.
Street food is a great way to get acquainted with Taiwanese cuisine. Popular dishes include:
- Xiaolongbao (小籠包) is a steamed dumpling filled with minced pork.
- Yüxiangrou pian (魚腸段), noodles usually accompanied by a sweet, spicy sauce.
- Oyster omelet (蚵仔煎), a fried omelet-pancake filled with oysters or small clams.
- Baiheminggao (白鶴餅皮), fermented glutinous rice cakes made of sticky dough filled with pickled radish.
- “Spicy chicken” (麻辣雞), deep-fried chicken pieces marinated in chili sauce.
- Hainan chihkan duck (海南雞官) is crispy roast duck served on rice or noodles.
Be sure to check out the local market. You can pick up fresh produce and specialty foods, such as dried shrimp, mushrooms, or even dried bamboo shoot slices known as “Niu Rou Pou” (牛乳婆). Dried goods can be cooked into tasteful soups like suan cai bianrou pou (酸菜扁肉婆) or sweetened pumpkin congee (金瓜粥).
Local Markets
Local Markets provide an intimate look into the daily lives of Taiwanese citizens and offer a unique shopping experience. Explore the bustling alleyways of night markets or tuck into a hole-in-the-wall restaurant. You’ll find fresh flavors and friendly faces.
Night Markets: In Taiwan, you’ll find night markets in most major cities, offering everything from street food stalls to clothing boutiques to traditional products like Chinese calligraphy paper and local crafts. Everyday necessities can also be found in these popular venues, such as fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Most recently, these areas of town have become known for their exciting food choices; cuttlefish soup, stinky bean curd, and pig blood cakes are only a few examples!
Traditional Restaurants: Traditional restaurants offer delicious Taiwanese cuisine made with high-quality ingredients and cooked with conventional techniques. Rice dishes are trendy in Taiwan; porridge is often served for breakfast or dinner, and clay pot rice is considered a specialty dish. Other popular dishes include noodle soups and stir-fried vegetables served with pickled side dishes such as egg soup or black bean sauce.
Tea Houses: Whether you are looking to relax with friends or refresh after a long day exploring the city streets, there is no shortage of teahouses in Taiwan specializing in warm teas and tasty snacks. Often these tea houses will reflect ancient Chinese culture through Martial Arts performances or puppet shows that provide enjoyable entertainment while sipping your tea! Enjoy cream oolong tea or raspberry rosehip juice while nibbling on dried fruits, jellied fruits, or other local pastries.
Shopping
Taiwan is a shopper’s paradise! From the world-famous night markets offering the best in bargain shopping to the designer boutiques in the glitzy malls, Taiwan has something for every budget. From modern buildings to traditional alleyways, let’s explore the great shopping spots Taiwan has to offer:
Local Markets
Local markets are one of the best places to buy easy-on-the-pocket souvenirs in Taiwan. While night markets attract more visitors, shopping centers and local markets offer a vast range of items such as clothes, food, everyday products, and much more.
The most famous market in Taipei is the Shilin Night Market which has become a prime spot for visiting tourists. But locals will tell you that you should also try lesser-known markets such as the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Ximending Shopping District, Guang Hong Men Markets near Monga Temple, Wannian Shopping Area, or Yong Kang Street. All these places offer great deals on items that can’t usually be found in malls or stores.
For those who visit cities other than Taipei, Tong Hua Night Market is a must-see in Kaohsiung city. The same applies to Taichung – Longjing Road Night Market and Cing Jing Farm & Ci Dian Zi Village for Hualien and Tainan, respectively (both are outside the main cities). Prices are always negotiable, and bargaining is expected, so it’s better to ask around before locking in your final deal. Don’t forget to sample some classic Taiwanese street food from all these places – it’s a must!
Shopping Malls
Shopping malls are an integral part of life in Taiwan and a great place to explore for tourists looking to taste the Taiwanese shopping experience. Taiwan’s shopping malls accommodate just about any need, from clothes and jewelry to groceries and electronics. They usually have numerous floors, with each floor dedicated to different types of products or services.
The most popular shopping malls in Taiwan are located in Taipei City and its vicinity. These include:
- Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Department Store, which is near Taipei 101;
- Breeze Center, which is located in Xinyi District;
- Vieshow Cinemas, which is near Taipei Main Station;
- Core Pacific Living Mall, which is located near home hypermarkets;
- Steel Garden Shopping Mall, with its wide array of fashion stores;
- Huanhong Department Store at Xinzhuang Street Night Market;
- Jingmei Wufenpu wholesale garment center by Jingmei MRT Station;
- Citylink Shopping Mall at ZhongZheng Road area;
- Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf Shopping Streets Complex (numerous stores here),
- Sogo Department Store in the Dunnan area and
- Mitsukoshi Department Store (Ximending branch).
Aside from these, hundreds of smaller shops are scattered throughout the streets of major cities like New Taipei City, Taoyuan City, Miaoli County, Keelung City, Taichung City, and Kaohsiung City. All can be easily accessed via metro systems or public buses. Tourists should also make sure not to miss special local events or festivals where traditional Taiwanese arts-and-crafts vendors can often offer unique souvenirs they cannot find elsewhere!
Souvenirs
Souvenir shopping is the perfect way to take home a unique souvenir from your travels in Taiwan. Plenty of exciting and unique items are available, depending on your interests and budget. Here are some of the top souvenir picks from Taiwan!
- Ningxia Night Market: This is a great place to pick up snacks, but there are also plenty of souvenirs for sale, such as traditional jade jewelry, metal charms known as maozhuang, and dream catchers.
- Jiannan Road: Located in Taichung City, this street is well-known for its selection of souvenirs and arts and crafts stores. You can find everything from craft beers to handmade paper flowers and handcrafted wooden objects here.
- Museums: Museums offer an exciting window into Taiwanese history and unique presents for friends back home. Check out the National Palace Museum for traditional teapots, rungu machinery toys, or embroidery artworks that display the sophisticated Chinese cultural heritage.
- Local Artists: Taiwan’s art scene has been booming recently, so much so that local artists have taken up stalls at some cities’ night markets! Names like Sky Osmanthus Decorator Art or Limio are known among locals; here, you can buy hand-themed items perfect for pet owners or those who love plants’ creative wall hangings with beautifully written calligraphy!
- Traditional Markets: It’s easy to find large shopping centers throughout Taiwan, but it’s worth exploring the small traditional markets if you want to experience a truly authentic shopping experience while at the same time finding some special souvenirs like bamboo handicrafts or porcelain pottery with intricate designs.