as told by Allison Anderson
Exploring Taiwan is full of surprises, blending ancient traditions with modern charm, stunning landscapes, and some of the best food in the world. Recently, I had the chance to explore this beautiful island thanks to Taiwan Tourism, and what I discovered was beyond my expectations. From hiking scenic coastal trails to indulging in Michelin-starred breakfasts, here’s an inside look at my adventure.
Taipei: The City of Contrasts
My journey began in Taipei, Taiwan’s bustling capital. Surrounded by lush green hills, this city perfectly balances the old and new. After arriving, I took a short hike up Elephant Mountain, where I was greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline.
One of Taipei’s must-visit landmarks is Taipei 101, once the world’s tallest building. Its most fascinating feature? A massive golden damper ball, designed to stabilize the skyscraper against strong winds and earthquakes. The observatory offers sleek aesthetics and dreamy photo spots.
Taipei is also rich in history. The nearly 300-year-old Lungshan Temple, adorned with intricate dragon carvings, is a stunning piece of cultural heritage. For a taste of the city’s vibrant past, I wandered through Dadaocheng, a lively historic neighborhood lined with shops and street vendors. During my visit, the streets were glowing with lanterns from the annual Lantern Festival, making it one of my favorite stops in the city.
For a relaxing evening, I headed to Pier 5 Riverside Wharf, a bustling spot along the river featuring food stalls and live entertainment—perfect for unwinding while watching the sunset.
Nature Beyond the City: Bitoujiao Trail & Taroko National Park
While Taiwan is famous for its cities, the natural beauty here is just as incredible. A short drive from Taipei took me to the Bitoujiao Trail, a stunning coastal hike with rolling green hills and dramatic ocean views. This was the moment I realized Taiwan was much more than just a city destination—over two-thirds of the island is covered in forested mountains, offering endless hiking opportunities, waterfalls, and picturesque coastal views.
A major highlight of my trip was exploring Taroko National Park, home to the breathtaking Qingshui Cliffs. The contrast of turquoise waters against the rugged cliffs creates a scene that looks almost unreal. With nine national parks across the island, Taiwan is a paradise for nature lovers.
A Zen Retreat at CHU Resort & FLOW Retreat
Midway through my trip, I checked into CHU Resort and FLOW Retreat, an oasis designed for relaxation and creativity. The resort’s minimalist, earthy aesthetic perfectly complements its tranquil surroundings. I even participated in an art therapy session, where I crafted a coaster from local marble—an experience that reminded me of the joy of creating without expectations.
To complete the experience, I indulged in a sound therapy session, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. If you’re looking for a way to truly unplug, this is the place to be.
Cycling Through Taitung & Taiwan’s Incredible Food Scene
Next, I traveled south to Taitung, where I cycled along Mr. Brown Avenue, a scenic road winding through lush rice fields. The experience was both peaceful and invigorating, giving me a deeper appreciation for Taiwan’s countryside.
No trip to Taiwan is complete without indulging in its legendary food scene. A must-visit breakfast spot is Fu Hang Soy Milk, a Michelin-starred eatery in Taipei, where the food is absolutely worth the wait.
And of course, Taiwan’s night markets are an experience in themselves. These bustling hubs of street food offer an endless variety of dishes, allowing you to sample everything from sweet to savory in a lively, energetic atmosphere.
Discovering Kaohsiung: Taiwan’s Southern Gem
My final stop was Kaohsiung, a city that instantly felt like an amazing place to live. Once an industrial shipping area, Kaohsiung has transformed its waterfront warehouses into trendy art hubs and food halls. I stayed at the stylish H2O Hotel, offering incredible city views.
For the best sunset views, I took a quick ferry ride across the harbor and climbed to the Kaohsiung Lighthouse. The panoramic views of the ocean and skyline were absolutely mesmerizing. As if the night couldn’t get any better, fireworks lit up the sky, creating a picture-perfect sendoff for my Taiwan adventure.
A Culture of Trust & Community
One of the most surprising things about Taiwan was its sense of safety and trust. During a lunch stop while cycling, I asked my guide if we should lock up our bikes. Her response? “Oh no, theft isn’t a problem here.” I soon noticed that locals routinely left their bikes unattended, even at night—a testament to the island’s strong community values.
Final Thoughts
Taiwan completely exceeded my expectations. From its dynamic cities and stunning natural landscapes to its rich culture and welcoming atmosphere, this destination offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re hiking breathtaking coastal trails, exploring ancient temples, or indulging in world-class food, Taiwan is an adventure waiting to be discovered.
Would I return? Absolutely. And if Taiwan isn’t already on your travel bucket list, it should be.
What else can you do when exploring Taiwan? Try take a look at this article.
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