Imagine sipping bubble tea while gazing at Taipei 101, or soaking in a natural hot spring surrounded by lush mountains. That’s just a taste of what awaits you in Taiwan! Did you know that this small island nation boasts over 100 peaks over 3,000 meters high? It’s a hiker’s paradise! But Taiwan isn’t just about nature – it’s a melting pot of culture, history, and mouth-watering cuisine. Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let’s dive into the perfect 2-week itinerary that’ll have you falling head over heels for Taiwan in 2024!
Days 1-3: Exploring Taipei’s Urban Wonders
As I stepped off the plane in Taipei, I could feel the excitement bubbling up inside me. The city’s energy was palpable, and I couldn’t wait to dive into all it had to offer. My first stop? The iconic Taipei 101, of course!
Standing at the base of this architectural marvel, I craned my neck to take in its full height. The elevator ride to the observation deck was an experience in itself – it’s one of the fastest in the world! Once at the top, I was treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Pro tip: try to time your visit for sunset to see Taipei transform from day to night.
After soaking in the views, I made my way to the National Palace Museum. As a history buff, I was in heaven. The museum houses an incredible collection of Chinese artifacts, spanning thousands of years. I spent hours marveling at intricate jade carvings, ancient bronzes, and delicate porcelain. The famous Jadeite Cabbage left me in awe – it’s amazing how a simple vegetable can be transformed into such a work of art.
As night fell, I knew it was time to experience Taipei’s famous night markets. Shilin Night Market was my first stop, and oh boy, was I in for a treat! The smells of stinky tofu, grilled squid, and bubble tea filled the air. I couldn’t resist trying the oyster omelet – a local favorite that did not disappoint. The market was a sensory overload in the best way possible, with vibrant lights, bustling crowds, and endless food options.
The next evening, I ventured to Raohe Night Market. While smaller than Shilin, it had its own unique charm. I stumbled upon a stall selling pork pepper buns, and the line of locals convinced me to give it a try. Let me tell you, it was worth the wait! The crispy outer layer gave way to a juicy, flavorful filling that had me coming back for seconds.
On my third day, I decided to take a day trip to Jiufen, the charming mountain town that inspired Miyazaki’s “Spirited Away.” As I wandered through the narrow, winding streets, I felt like I had stepped into another world. The red lanterns swaying in the breeze, the smell of tea wafting from quaint teahouses, and the stunning views of the coastline all combined to create a magical atmosphere.
Before heading back to Taipei, I made a stop at the Beitou Hot Springs area. After all the walking I’d done, soaking in the mineral-rich waters was exactly what I needed. The public hot spring was a great way to mingle with locals and experience an important part of Taiwanese culture. As I relaxed in the steaming pool, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this amazing start to my Taiwan adventure.
Days 4-5: Nature and Culture in Taroko National Park
Leaving the hustle and bustle of Taipei behind, I set off for Taroko National Park. As soon as I entered the park, I was struck by the sheer magnitude of the marble cliffs towering above me. Taroko Gorge is truly a natural wonder, with its dramatic landscapes carved out by the Liwu River over millions of years.
My first hike was along the Shakadang Trail, also known as the “Mysterious Valley Trail.” The path hugged the riverbank, offering stunning views of the turquoise waters below. The contrast between the white marble cliffs and the lush green vegetation was simply breathtaking. I took my time, stopping often to soak in the scenery and snap photos.
One of the highlights of my visit was the Eternal Spring Shrine. Perched on the side of a cliff with a waterfall cascading beneath it, the shrine is a memorial to the workers who lost their lives building the Central Cross-Island Highway. The tranquil setting and the story behind it made for a poignant moment of reflection.
For my overnight stay, I chose a mountain retreat nestled in the heart of the park. Falling asleep to the sound of crickets and waking up to misty mountain views was an experience I’ll never forget. The retreat also offered Tai Chi classes at sunrise, which I decided to try. While I may not have mastered the graceful movements, it was a peaceful way to start the day and connect with nature.
Before leaving Taroko, I tackled the Zhuilu Old Trail. This hike is not for the faint of heart – parts of the trail are carved into the cliff face with sheer drops on one side. But the panoramic views of the gorge from the top were absolutely worth the heart-pounding climb. Just remember to book your permit in advance, as only a limited number of hikers are allowed each day.
Days 6-7: Sun Moon Lake and Surrounding Attractions
After the rugged beauty of Taroko, Sun Moon Lake felt like a serene oasis. I decided to explore the area by bicycle, renting one from a local shop. Cycling around the lake was a joy, with well-maintained paths and plenty of stops for photo opportunities. The reflections of the surrounding mountains on the calm water surface were simply mesmerizing.
One of my favorite stops was the Wenwu Temple. Its vibrant red exterior and intricate architectural details caught my eye from afar. As I climbed the 366 steps (one for each day of the year, including leap year!), I was rewarded with increasingly spectacular views of the lake. Inside the temple, the air was thick with incense, and I watched as locals made offerings and prayed.
For a different perspective of the area, I took a cable car ride to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. The journey itself was exciting, offering bird’s-eye views of the lush landscape. At the village, I learned about Taiwan’s indigenous tribes through traditional dance performances, craft demonstrations, and exhibitions. It was a fascinating glimpse into a side of Taiwanese culture often overlooked by tourists.
In the afternoon, I made my way to the charming town of Puli. Known for its butterfly gardens, it was a delightful surprise. Walking through the gardens, surrounded by colorful butterflies fluttering about, felt like stepping into a fairytale. The town is also famous for its rice wine, so I made sure to pick up a bottle as a souvenir.
As the sun began to set, I found a quiet spot by the lake to enjoy a picnic dinner. Watching the sky change colors and reflect on the water’s surface, I felt a deep sense of peace and connection to this beautiful place.
Days 8-9: Historical Tainan and Kaohsiung’s Modern Vibes
Arriving in Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, felt like stepping back in time. The city is a treasure trove of historical sites, and I was eager to explore. My first stop was the Confucius Temple, the oldest of its kind in Taiwan. The serene courtyards and ancient architecture transported me to another era. I spent some time admiring the intricate stone carvings and learning about Confucian philosophy.
Next on my list was the Anping Old Fort, built by the Dutch in the 17th century. Climbing to the top of the fort gave me a great view of the surrounding area and helped me imagine what life might have been like during colonial times. Nearby, I explored the quirky Anping Tree House, where massive banyan trees have overtaken an old warehouse, creating a hauntingly beautiful sight.
But Tainan isn’t just about history – it’s also a food lover’s paradise. I made sure to try some local specialties like coffin bread (trust me, it’s tastier than it sounds!) and danzai noodles. The highlight was definitely the oyster omelet at one of the city’s famous street food stalls. The combination of plump oysters, crispy egg, and tangy sauce was simply delicious.
After immersing myself in Tainan’s history and cuisine, I headed to Kaohsiung for a taste of modern Taiwan. The city’s vibrant art scene was immediately apparent at the Pier-2 Art Center. This former warehouse district has been transformed into a hip cultural hub, filled with galleries, boutiques, and cafes. I spent hours wandering through the area, admiring the street art and popping into quirky shops.
As evening approached, I made my way to Love River for a sunset cruise. The sight of the city lights reflecting on the water was magical. Couples strolled hand in hand along the riverbank, and the atmosphere was romantic and peaceful. After the cruise, I explored the nearby night market, sampling local snacks and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Kaohsiung surprised me with its blend of urban cool and natural beauty. Before leaving the city, I made sure to visit Fo Guang Shan, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Taiwan. The giant Buddha statue and the tranquil gardens provided a moment of zen before I continued my journey along Taiwan’s east coast.
Days 10-11: East Coast Scenic Route
Leaving the cities behind, I embarked on a road trip along Taiwan’s stunning East Coast National Scenic Area. The coastal highway hugged the shoreline, offering breathtaking views at every turn. I found myself pulling over frequently to take photos and simply marvel at the landscape where mountains meet the sea.
One of the most memorable stops was Sanxiantai, famous for its eight-arch bridge. As I walked across the bridge, I felt like I was traversing between worlds. The rugged coastline and crashing waves created a dramatic backdrop. I spent some time exploring the area, climbing over rocks and discovering hidden tide pools teeming with marine life.
Further south, I visited the Baxian Caves near Taitung. These sea-eroded caves are steeped in local legend, said to be the dwelling place of the Eight Immortals of Chinese mythology. The natural hot springs in the area were a welcome treat after a day of exploring. Soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters while gazing out at the ocean was incredibly relaxing.
One of the highlights of this part of the trip was experiencing the indigenous culture of the East Rift Valley. I visited a Bunun tribal village where I learned about traditional music and dance. The polyphonic singing of the tribe was hauntingly beautiful and unlike anything I’d heard before. I even got to try my hand at archery, a skill highly valued in Bunun culture.
The East Coast of Taiwan left me in awe of its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As I continued my journey south, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation for the tropical paradise that awaited me in Kenting.
Days 12-13: Kenting National Park and Beach Relaxation
Arriving in Kenting felt like entering a different world. The laid-back vibe and tropical climate were a stark contrast to the mountainous regions I’d just left behind. I wasted no time in heading to the beach, excited to feel the warm sand between my toes and the sun on my skin.
Kenting’s beaches did not disappoint. The clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand of Baisha Beach were postcard-perfect. I spent the morning alternating between swimming in the warm waters and lounging on the beach with a good book. For lunch, I tried some fresh coconut water straight from the fruit – the perfect refreshment for a hot day.
Being an avid snorkeler, I couldn’t resist exploring the underwater world of Kenting. I joined a snorkeling tour to Houbihu, known for its vibrant coral reefs. The moment I put my face in the water, I was amazed by the colorful fish darting around me and the intricate coral formations below. I even spotted a sea turtle gracefully gliding through the water – a truly magical moment.
The next day, I decided to visit Eluanbi Lighthouse, located at the southernmost point of Taiwan. The stark white lighthouse against the backdrop of the deep blue sea was a striking sight. I learned that it’s one of the few fortified lighthouses in the world, built to protect against attacks by indigenous tribes in the 19th century.
As the sun began to set, I made my way to Kenting Night Market. The street came alive with food stalls, game booths, and souvenir shops. The aroma of grilled seafood filled the air, and I couldn’t resist trying some freshly caught squid. The night market was the perfect place to sample local delicacies and soak in the lively atmosphere of this beach town.
Day 14: Return to Taipei and Farewell
As my Taiwan adventure came to an end, I boarded the high-speed rail back to Taipei. The journey was smooth and comfortable, giving me time to reflect on all the amazing experiences I’d had over the past two weeks. Before I knew it, we were pulling into Taipei Main Station, and I was back in the bustling capital.
With a few hours left before my flight, I decided to do some last-minute shopping. Ximending, often called the “Harajuku of Taipei,” was a whirlwind of fashion, food, and pop culture. I picked up some quirky souvenirs for friends back home and couldn’t resist buying a few Taiwanese skincare products for myself.
For my farewell dinner, I chose a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city. As I sipped on a glass of local craft beer and savored my last taste of Taiwanese cuisine, I watched the sun set over Taipei. The city lights began to twinkle, and I felt a wave of gratitude for all the memories I’d made.
Taiwan had surprised me in so many ways – from its stunning natural beauty and rich history to its modern cities and warm, welcoming people. As I raised my glass to toast this incredible island, I knew one thing for certain: I would be back. There was still so much more to discover in this gem of Asia.
Conclusion
Wow, what a journey! From the skyscrapers of Taipei to the serene beaches of Kenting, you’ve experienced the very best of Taiwan in just two weeks. You’ve hiked through marble gorges, cycled around mystical lakes, and indulged in some of the world’s best street food. As you bid farewell to this beautiful island, you’ll be taking home not just souvenirs, but a heart full of unforgettable memories. Taiwan may be small, but it’s packed with endless adventures – and trust me, you’ll be planning your next visit before your plane even takes off! So, what are you waiting for? Start packing for your 2024 Taiwan adventure!