If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan and only have ten days to explore, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Taiwan is a country filled with natural beauty and unique culture, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure and discovery! From the bustling capital city of Taipei to the tranquil forests of Alishan, Taiwan has something for every type of traveler and has a wealth of photographic opportunities.

Taipei

One of the must visit cities of any trip to Taiwan is visiting Taipei. As the country’s capital, it’s a vibrant metropolis of activities, culture, history, and modernity everyone can enjoy. There’s so much to do in Taipei alone and it’s so convenient living there. If there was a city outside of New York City I would want to live in, it’s Taipei.

For first time visitors

One of the must-see attractions in Taipei is the Taipei 101 building, which was once the tallest building in the world from 2004 to 2010. Visitors can take the elevator to the observation deck on the 89th floor for breathtaking views of the city.

For the perfect day trip

If you’ve ever watched Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, a day trip to Jiufen is a requirement! This village is what inspired Hayao Miyazaki to create his masterpiece movie.

For foodies

If you’re looking to experience authentic Taiwanese snacks, a visit to one of the city’s many night markets is a must! There’s the Shilin Night Market, one of the largest and most popular markets, and also Raohe Night Market in Songshan District.

For shoppers

Ximending is known as the “Harajuku of Taipei” and is one of the main shopping districts in the city. It’s fun and glitzy and also a perfect place to people watch since there’s a crosswalk that’s also similar to Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing.

For relaxation

For a more relaxed experience, visitors can take a dip in the Beitou Hot Springs, which are known for their therapeutic properties. The hot springs are located in a beautiful mountain setting and offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

For history buffs

Another popular attraction is the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a monument dedicated to Taiwan’s former president. The hall is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a great place to take a stroll and learn about Taiwan’s history.

Finally, no visit to Taipei is complete without visiting one of its many temples. The Longshan Temple is a particularly beautiful example, with intricate carvings and colorful paintings that are sure to impress.

Alishan National Forest

Nestled in the literal heart of Taiwan is Alishan National Forest, a nature lover’s paradise. There are so many hiking trails through lush forests, and its famous foggy sunrises make this a magical place.

Alishan Forest Railway

One of the most popular activities in Alishan is taking a ride on the Alishan Forest Railway. This historic alpine train takes visitors on a journey through the forest, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The ride is famous for its unique Z-shaped switchbacks and for going through over 50 tunnels and 77 wooden bridges. Be warned: the ride is quite bumpy, but quite the experience!

Hike the forest trails

Another must-do activity in Alishan is hiking. The forest is home to a network of well-maintained trails, offering something for every level of hiker. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there’s a trail for you. One of the most popular trails is the “Sunsets at the Top” trail, which takes hikers to the summit of Alishan for a truly unforgettable sunset experience.

Learn about aborigines culture

For those interested in indigenous culture, the Alishan Forest Recreation Area is home to several aborigines tribes. Visitors can learn about the region’s history and culture by visiting a Tsou cultural village at the base of the mountain, where they can learn about the Tsou people’s customs, walk the Tanaiku suspension bridge, and eat traditional Tsou barbeque food.

Hsinchu

Often overshadowed by Taiwan’s larger cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung, Hsinchu offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, and nature. As a local, I’ve had the pleasure of discovering the many things to do in Hsinchu and I’m excited to share my top picks with you.

Visit Hsinchu City’s God Temple

A must-see for any first-time visitor to Hsinchu. It’s dedicated to the city’s patron deity and is a beautiful example of traditional Chinese architecture. Integrated with one of Hsinchu’s oldest markets, there are so many alleys and vendors to check out. It’s also a great place to learn about Hsinchu’s history and culture.

Explore the Hsinchu Science Park

Home of the semiconductor industry, Hsinchu is known as the “Silicon Valley of Taiwan.” Hsinchu Science Park is a great place to learn about the latest advancements in technology and see some of the world’s biggest tech companies in action.

Visit the Beipu Old Street

This charming old street is part of Beipu Historic Area, a village made up of the Hakka ethnic minority. My family is part Hakka and we’ve been visiting here for years, never realizing it was a UNESCO World Heritage Site! You can take a leisurely stroll through the area and admire the preserved traditional houses and temples, and sample Hakka culture.

Watch the sunset at Xiangshan Wetland

Taiwan is a subtropical island and has a diverse variety of ecosystems. Wetlands are one of the most important environments for biodiversity, and the Taiwanese government has made strides more recently to protect these areas.

With only 1.5 weeks to explore, you’ll need to prioritize your activities. Even though Taiwan is only about the size of New Jersey, there’s so much to see and do! No matter your plans, you’ll be sure to fall in love with Taiwan and all it has to offer.

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