Discover the hidden gems of Taiwan with our guide to off-the-beaten-path destinations. Find unique things to do in Taiwan beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
Exploring Taiwan’s Quaint Coastal Towns
Taiwan’s seashore communities are like a treasure trove full with hidden gems. Each hamlet on the island has its own individuality and charm, revealing the island’s diverse cultural past. From the bustling fishing port of Keelung to the laid-back beach resort of Kenting on Kenting Island, there’s something for everyone.
Visit Tainan if you’re interested in Taiwan’s colonial past. Tainan, which was a Dutch trading port and Taiwan’s capital during the Qing dynasty, has an excellent collection of well-maintained structures. Palaces, temples, and forts are among these structures. If you wish to experience Taiwan’s fishing culture, visit Jiufen, a lovely village. This lovely town on a hillside overlooking the coast is famed for its meandering lanes and tea shops.
Yilan is a tranquil coastal village known for its natural hot springs and stunning surroundings. Visitors may stroll along the river mouth’s Lover’s Bridge or explore Guishan Island, a nature reserve full of wildlife. Taiwan’s seashore towns have lots to offer tourists with diverse interests.
Hiking Taiwan’s Remote Mountain Trails
Some of Taiwan’s most remote mountain routes provide a rare chance to see its natural beauty. Taiwan’s hiking trails are Asia’s most challenging and rewarding. Over 200 3,000-meter peaks exist on the island.
Yushan National Park, home to Taiwan’s highest peak, Yushan (Jade peak), is one of Taiwan’s most popular hiking destinations. The five-day climb to the top offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Anyone searching for a less demanding hike might visit Taroko Gorge National Park. The park’s wide trail network winds through stunning marble cliffs, clear rivers, and lush trees.
If you’re searching for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, go to Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, which has some of the hardest and most rewarding hiking trails. The Qilai Mountain Trail is a five-day trip through some of the country’s most stunning alpine scenery, while the Snow Mountain Trail is a three-day climb with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Both trails are in Taiwan.
Immersing Yourself in Taiwan’s Indigenous Culture
Taiwan’s indigenous culture is rich and diverse. Taiwan’s sixteen indigenous tribes each have their unique rituals, traditions, and beliefs, offering a fascinating glimpse into its culture. From Wulai’s hills to Taitung’s beaches, Taiwan’s indigenous culture may be experienced around the island.
Taiwan’s traditional aboriginal culture is best experienced during festivals. The Harvest Festival, held in July or August, honors ancestors and celebrates the harvest season for Taiwan’s indigenous tribes. Tourists may experience traditional festivities, live dance performances, and delicious local cuisine. Many places provide homestays with indigenous families, giving visitors a more intimate experience and insight into native customs, rituals, and beliefs.
Taiwanese arts and crafts are also wonderful examples of indigenous culture. Indigenous artisans use wood carving and delicate weaving to express their cultural heritage in unique and stunning creations. Visitors may visit indigenous art centers and workshops to buy unique souvenirs and learn about traditional manufacturing processes.
Discovering Taiwan’s Hidden Temples and Shrines
Taiwan boasts a vast network of temples and shrines, each with its own history, architecture, and religious significance. Even while many of the island’s most famous temples attract enormous crowds, those willing to explore will uncover a plethora of unknown gems.
In Hsinchu County’s highlands, the Zushi Temple is a great example of a hidden temple worth seeing. Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism were combined at the Qing-era temple. While seeing the intricate wood carvings, sculptures, and paintings, visitors may admire the mountain views.
Beiji Temple, in the heart of Taipei, is another hidden gem. Dedicated to the Northern Emperor, this temple is worth seeing. Taiwan’s rich history is reflected in the temple’s Chinese and European features. While admiring the temple’s rich details, visitors may escape city life.
Uncovering Taiwan’s Abandoned Ghost Towns
Taiwan’s “ghost towns” reveal the island’s past. These abandoned communities range from mining villages to military locations amid Taiwan’s rugged topography. Exploring Taiwan’s abandoned villages may be thrilling and adventurous for history buffs.
New Taipei City’s abandoned hamlet Jiufen is an example. Jiufen, a former gold mine village, is now a popular tourist destination known for its twisting lanes, tea cafés, and stunning mountain views. Visitors may imagine life in the town’s glory by visiting the abandoned buildings and mines on the hills.
Sanzhi, a lonely village on Taiwan’s northern coast, is worth a visit. The hamlet, built in the 1970s as a holiday spot, was supposed to attract tourists with its futuristic architecture. However, there were several fatal accidents during construction, prompting curse accusations. The project was abandoned as a consequence. Today, visitors may explore the haunting remnants of the abandoned buildings, including the “UFO houses.”
Escaping the Crowds: Taiwan’s Secluded Beaches and Islands
Taiwan’s tropical climate and hilly coastline provide lots of opportunities for beachgoers to escape the crowds and explore hidden coves and islands. Whether you desire a family vacation or a romantic getaway, there are many alternatives.
One of Taiwan’s most distant beaches is Jialeshui Beach in Pingtung. The beach is famous for its white sand, clear waters, and stunning cliffs. Snorkeling, diving, or sunbathing are options for visitors.
Xiaoliuqiu, a small island off Kaohsiung’s shore, is perfect for adventurous beach vacationers. Due to its coral reefs and diverse marine life, the island is famous for snorkeling and diving. Visitors may also tour fishing communities, temples, and hiking trails on the island.
Taiwan has a lot to offer tourists. Taiwan has something for everyone, from visiting beautiful coastal towns and climbing lonely mountain routes to immersing oneself in the indigenous culture of the island, finding secret temples and shrines, unearthing abandoned ghost towns, and escaping the crowds on quiet beaches and islands. Off-the-beaten-path visitors have a higher chance of finding Taiwan’s best-kept secrets and enjoying a unique and unforgettable experience related to the island’s natural beauty, culture, and history.
Hey Singapore 