Top 5 Tourist Destinations in Taiwan
1. Taipei 101
Once the world’s tallest building, Taipei 101 remains an iconic landmark in Taiwan’s capital. Visitors can take an ultra-fast elevator to the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei. The surrounding Xinyi District offers luxury shopping, fine dining, and a lively nightlife scene.
2. Taroko Gorge
Located in Taroko National Park, this stunning marble gorge is one of Taiwan’s most famous natural wonders. Visitors can hike through scenic trails, cross suspension bridges, and admire waterfalls. The Eternal Spring Shrine and Swallow Grotto are must-see spots for breathtaking views of nature.
3. Sun Moon Lake
Taiwan’s largest freshwater lake is a serene escape surrounded by lush mountains. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, cycling along the picturesque lakeside path, and exploring temples such as Wenwu Temple. The area is also home to the Thao indigenous people, adding a cultural aspect to the visit.
4. Jiufen
This charming mountain town, said to have inspired the setting of Spirited Away, is famous for its lantern-lit alleyways, traditional tea houses, and breathtaking ocean views. Visitors can explore Jiufen’s nostalgic old streets, try local street food, and experience Taiwan’s rich gold mining history.
5. Kenting National Park
Located in southern Taiwan, Kenting is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy water activities like surfing and snorkeling or explore the lively Kenting Night Market for delicious seafood and local snacks.
Savoring Taiwan: Top 5 Must-Try Local Delicacies
1. Beef Noodle Soup
A beloved national dish, Taiwan’s Beef Noodle Soup consists of tender braised beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, aromatic broth. Each region has its own take on the dish, from spicy Sichuan-style versions to clear, herbal broths. It’s a must-try comfort food.
2. Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
Originally from Shanghai but perfected in Taiwan, Xiaolongbao are delicate dumplings filled with juicy pork and hot soup. Din Tai Fung, a famous Taiwanese restaurant chain, is known for its meticulously crafted soup dumplings, attracting food lovers worldwide.
3. Oyster Omelette
A popular night market dish, the Taiwanese Oyster Omelette combines fresh oysters, eggs, sweet potato starch, and vegetables, all fried to perfection. Topped with a sweet and savory sauce, it’s a delicious and unique street food experience.
4. Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice)
A staple of Taiwanese home cooking, Lu Rou Fan consists of slow-braised minced pork in a rich, soy-based sauce served over steamed rice. The dish is simple yet incredibly flavorful, making it a favorite comfort food among locals and visitors alike.
5. Bubble Tea (Boba Tea)
Taiwan is the birthplace of Bubble Tea, a worldwide sensation. This refreshing drink features milk tea mixed with chewy tapioca pearls or fruit-based flavors. Various tea shops across Taiwan offer endless varieties, from classic black milk tea to innovative fruit and cheese teas.
Celebrating Taiwan: Top 5 Festivals You Can’t Miss
1. Lantern Festival
Marking the end of Lunar New Year celebrations, the Lantern Festival lights up Taiwan with thousands of glowing lanterns. The Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, where people release wish-filled lanterns into the night sky, is one of the most magical experiences in Taiwan.
2. Dragon Boat Festival
This festival commemorates the poet Qu Yuan with thrilling dragon boat races held across Taiwan, the most famous being in Taipei’s Dajia Riverside Park. People also celebrate by eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves).
3. Mid-Autumn Festival
A time for family reunions, the Mid-Autumn Festival is famous for mooncakes and outdoor barbecues. People gather to admire the full moon, light lanterns, and enjoy seasonal pomelos, a traditional fruit eaten during this festive occasion.
4. Ghost Festival
During the Ghost Festival, it is believed that spirits from the underworld return to visit the living. Families prepare offerings, and temples hold ceremonies to honor the dead. The festival is particularly grand in Keelung, where a lantern-floating ritual takes place.
5. Taiwan Pride
Taiwan is known for its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, and Taiwan Pride in Taipei is the largest pride event in Asia. The parade features colorful floats, lively performances, and a festive atmosphere celebrating diversity and equality.