Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge, located in Taroko National Park on Taiwan's east coast, is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its stunning marble cliffs, lush landscapes, and crystal-clear rivers. Just a short drive from Hualien City, this majestic gorge features iconic attractions such as the Swallow Grotto, Eternal Spring Shrine, and the Tunnel of Nine Turns. Hiking trails, including the Shakadang and Baiyang Waterfall trails, offer diverse experiences amid the gorge's unique geology. Taroko Gorge is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers, providing a captivating blend of cultural significance and awe-inspiring scenery.

What to See

Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou): A section of the gorge where the cliffs seem to close in, providing an up-close view of the impressive marble formations.

Eternal Spring Shrine (Changchun Shrine): Perched on a cliff, this picturesque shrine is dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway.

Shakadang Trail: A riverside trail offering a relatively easy hike with stunning views of the crystal-clear river and lush vegetation.

Tunnel of Nine Turns (Jiuqudong): A winding road carved into the marble mountainside, leading to breathtaking viewpoints of the gorge.

Baiyang Waterfall Trail: A trail leading to the scenic Baiyang Waterfall, passing through tunnels and offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Xiangde Temple: A Buddhist temple with a serene setting surrounded by mountains.

Lushui Trail: A trail leading to the Lushui-Wenshan Hot Springs area, providing a different perspective of the gorge.

What to Do

Hiking: Taroko Gorge offers various hiking trails catering to different fitness levels. Whether you're an avid hiker or prefer a stroll, there are options for everyone.

Scenic Drives: The Central Cross-Island Highway through Taroko Gorge provides stunning scenic drives with numerous viewpoints. Consider hiring a driver or renting a scooter for a more flexible experience.

Cultural Exploration: Visit the shrines and temples to understand the cultural significance of the area. Learn about the indigenous people and their connection to the gorge.

Photography: Taroko Gorge is a paradise for photographers. Capture the dramatic landscapes, marble cliffs, and vibrant flora.

Nature Appreciation: Take the time to appreciate the unique geology, diverse plant life, and the Liwu River flowing through the gorge.

Taipei 101

Taipei 101, a towering architectural marvel located in the Xinyi District of Taipei, Taiwan, captivates visitors with its iconic design blending traditional Asian elements and modern aesthetics, hosting an observation deck affording breathtaking panoramic views of the city, a luxurious shopping mall featuring international brands and high-end boutiques, and serving as the original home to the renowned Din Tai Fung restaurant, all while symbolizing Taiwan's economic prowess and technological innovation through its towering height of 508 meters and intricate engineering, making it an integral cultural and iconic landmark in the heart of Taipei.

Key Features

Architectural Icon: Formerly the world's tallest building from 2004 to 2010, Taipei 101 is renowned for its distinctive design, incorporating traditional Asian elements with modern architectural techniques.

Observation Deck: The tower boasts an observation deck on the 89th and 91st floors, offering panoramic views of Taipei City and beyond. The deck provides a breathtaking vantage point, especially during sunset and in the evening when the city lights up.

Taipei 101 Mall: The building houses a luxurious shopping mall with a wide range of international and local brands, high-end boutiques, and diverse dining options.

Din Tai Fung: Taipei 101 is home to the original Din Tai Fung restaurant, globally renowned for its dumplings and Taiwanese cuisine.

Wind Damper: One of the engineering marvels of Taipei 101 is its massive tuned mass damper, a spherical device designed to counteract the swaying of the building caused by strong winds or earthquakes.

National Palace Museum

The Taipei National Palace Museum, located in Taipei, Taiwan, stands as a cultural treasure trove, housing one of the world's most extensive collections of Chinese art and artifacts, spanning millennia and showcasing invaluable pieces ranging from paintings and calligraphy to ceramics, jade, and historical relics, offering visitors a profound journey through China's rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake, nestled in the lush central mountains of Taiwan, is a captivating natural wonder and the island's largest body of freshwater, renowned for its serene beauty, the harmonious juxtaposition of the sun and moon-shaped shores, and its cultural significance as home to indigenous Thao communities, offering visitors a tranquil retreat amidst verdant landscapes, vibrant temples, and opportunities for boat cruises to fully immerse in its picturesque charm.

Things to See and Do at Sun Moon Lake

Boat Cruises: Experience the lake's beauty by taking a boat cruise, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Lalu Island, shaped like a crescent moon.

Xuanzang Temple (Wenwu Temple): Explore the majestic Wenwu Temple, an architectural gem with a panoramic view of the lake, showcasing traditional Chinese design elements and housing cultural relics.

Ci'en Pagoda: Climb to Ci'en Pagoda for a breathtaking panoramic view of Sun Moon Lake and the surrounding landscapes.

Ropeway and Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village: Take a cable car ride to the Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village, an amusement park that provides insights into Taiwan's indigenous cultures and traditions.

Biking Around the Lake: Rent a bicycle and enjoy a leisurely ride around the lake, exploring charming villages, lakeside trails, and scenic viewpoints.

Xiangshan Visitor Center: Visit the Xiangshan Visitor Center for interactive exhibits on the ecology of Sun Moon Lake, offering educational insights into the area's flora and fauna.

Shuishe Village and Old Street: Wander through Shuishe Village and its Old Street, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering local delicacies and handmade crafts.

Swimming and Water Activities: Enjoy water activities like swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking in the clear and pristine waters of Sun Moon Lake.

Aboriginal Performances: Experience traditional music and dance performances by the Thao indigenous people, showcasing their rich cultural heritage.

Sun Moon Lake Ropeway: Take the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway for a bird's-eye view of the lake and the surrounding landscapes, offering a unique perspective.

Tea Plantations: Explore nearby tea plantations, such as the Antong tea plantation, to learn about the tea-making process and sample high-quality Taiwanese tea.

Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area: Discover the broader Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area, which includes various viewpoints, hiking trails, and opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Alishan National Scenic Area

Nestled amid the central mountain range of Taiwan, the Alishan National Scenic Area unfolds as a mesmerizing expanse where ancient towering cypress trees cast shadows on mystical trails, revealing a pristine wilderness celebrated for its ethereal sunrise over a sea of clouds, the rhythmic chug of the Alishan Forest Railway echoing through lush landscapes, and a sanctuary where visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of a forest steeped in cultural heritage and breathtaking natural wonders.

Things to do and see

Alishan Forest Railway: Embark on a nostalgic journey aboard the Alishan Forest Railway, an iconic narrow-gauge train, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and picturesque stops along the way.

Sunrise Viewing: Rise early to witness the spectacular sunrise from the Zhushan Sunrise Viewing Platform, where the sun gradually unveils itself over a sea of clouds, creating a magical and unforgettable scene.

Alishan Sacred Tree: Marvel at the ancient Alishan Sacred Tree, a giant cypress estimated to be over 3,000 years old, standing as a symbol of the region's natural heritage and resilience.

Shouzhen Temple: Visit Shouzhen Temple, a beautiful Taoist temple nestled in the heart of the Alishan forest, reflecting traditional architecture and cultural significance.

Ciyun Temple: Admire the Sister Trees, two ancient giant trees with intertwined roots, representing harmony and unity, and surrounded by a tranquil forest setting.

Hiking: Hike through the well-maintained trails of the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area, encountering diverse flora, fauna, and scenic viewpoints.

Alishan Cherry Blossom Season: If visiting in spring, witness the enchanting Alishan cherry blossoms in full bloom, transforming the landscape into a sea of delicate pink and white hues.

Fenqihu Old Street: Take a side trip to Fenqihu, a historic town along the Alishan Forest Railway, known for its charming old street lined with nostalgic shops and eateries.

Kenting National Park

Kenting National Park, situated at the southern tip of Taiwan, enchants visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty, featuring pristine beaches, coral reefs, lush tropical forests, and a vibrant night market, making it a diverse and sought-after destination for those seeking both outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

Things to do and see

Kenting Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches such as Baisha Bay, Nanwan Beach, and Little Bay, known for their golden sands, clear waters, and water sports opportunities.

Kenting Night Market: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Kenting Night Market, where you can sample local delicacies, enjoy street performances, and shop for souvenirs.

Kenting National Forest Recreation Area: Explore the lush landscapes of the forest recreation area, featuring hiking trails like the Sheding Nature Park and the Eluanbi Park, where you can discover diverse flora and fauna.

Eluanbi Lighthouse: Visit the iconic Eluanbi Lighthouse, Taiwan's southernmost point, offering panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.

Maobitou Park: Wander through Maobitou Park, a coastal area known for its unique rock formations, including a rock that resembles a crouching cat, and enjoy scenic ocean views.

Hengchun Ancient City: Explore the charming Hengchun Ancient City, known for its well-preserved city gates, historic architecture, and vibrant local culture.

National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium: Discover the diverse marine life at the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, which features impressive exhibits and an underwater tunnel.

Longpan Park: Hike or bike through Longpan Park, offering stunning vistas of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, particularly popular during the cherry blossom season.

Kenting Youth Activity Center: Engage in water sports and outdoor activities at the Kenting Youth Activity Center, which provides opportunities for windsurfing, snorkeling, and more.

Kenting Street: Stroll along Kenting Street, the main thoroughfare lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, creating a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings.

Jiufen Old Street

A charming mountain town known for its narrow streets, teahouses, and stunning views of the coastline.

Yushan National Park

Home to Yushan, East Asia's highest peak, with challenging hikes, alpine landscapes, and unique flora and fauna.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

A prominent landmark in Taipei, dedicated to the former President of the Republic of China, featuring a large plaza and beautiful architecture.

Longshan Temple

A historic temple in Taipei known for its vibrant atmosphere, intricate architecture, and cultural significance.

Penghu Islands

An archipelago known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and traditional fishing villages.

Hualien

A coastal city serving as a gateway to Taroko Gorge, offering a relaxed atmosphere, night markets, and access to scenic spots like Qixingtan Beach.

Maokong Gondola

A cable car system in Taipei that takes you to the tea plantations of Maokong, offering stunning views of the city.