Hello Hoomans…

It’s Jerry again!

If you’re reading this, I’m guessing Taiwan has finally made its way onto your bucket list. First of all… GREAT CHOICE! It might not be the first country that comes to everyone’s mind when planning a trip to Asia, but trust me, it’s one of those places that quietly steals your heart.

Before visiting Taiwan, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I knew I wanted to climb the highest peak in Taiwan, celebrate New Year’s beneath the famous Taipei 101, and explore a few places I had seen online. What I wasn’t expecting was how much this little island would surprise me.

This isn’t another guide that’s only going to tell you where to go or what to eat. Instead, I’ll help you prepare for your journey while sharing a few things I learned along the way. Hopefully, by the time you finish reading this guide, planning your trip to Taiwan will feel a lot less overwhelming.

So… let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

Experience the perfect mix of vibrant cities, peaceful mountain landscapes, and charming old towns.
Pack comfortable walking shoes—you’ll be walking a lot, whether it’s through busy night markets or hiking mountain trails.
Don’t miss Taiwan’s street food. Some of the best meals you’ll have won’t come from fancy restaurants.
Learn a few simple Mandarin phrases. Even though many people speak English, locals always appreciate the effort.
Leave room in your itinerary for unexpected discoveries. Some of my favourite memories came from places I never planned to visit.

Essential Planning for Your Taiwan Trip

I always believe that a good trip starts long before boarding the flight. Spending a little extra time planning before you arrive saves you a lot of unnecessary stress later.

Taiwan is one of the easiest countries I’ve travelled around, but knowing a few things beforehand will make your journey much smoother. From choosing the right season to understanding transportation and budgeting, here’s everything you should know before you arrive.

Visa Requirements and Entry Regulations

Visa requirements for Taiwan depend on your nationality. Some travellers can enter Taiwan visa-free for a limited period, while others need to apply for a visa before travelling.

Before booking your flights, always check the latest entry requirements through the official Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs website or your nearest Taiwanese embassy or representative office, as immigration rules can change.

A few things I recommend before travelling:

Travel insurance isn’t always mandatory, but it’s something I highly recommend for peace of mind.

Make sure your passport is valid according to Taiwan’s entry requirements.

Keep your return or onward flight details easily accessible.

Carry copies of important travel documents.

Best Time to Visit Taiwan

One thing I quickly realised is that there’s really no “bad” time to visit Taiwan—it all depends on what you’re planning to do.

If you’re mainly exploring cities like Taipei, Taichung, or Tainan, spring and autumn are probably the most comfortable seasons, with pleasant temperatures and less humidity.

If hiking is on your list, especially mountains like Yushan or Alishan, these seasons also offer some of the best conditions.

Winter is surprisingly enjoyable too. That’s when I climbed Yushan, and somehow I got lucky enough to experience a fresh snowfall on summit day. It completely changed the entire experience.

Budgeting for Your Trip

One of the things I loved most about Taiwan is that it doesn’t have to be an expensive destination.

Taipei is naturally a little more expensive than the rest of the country, but once you leave the capital, accommodation, transportation, and food become much more affordable.

The best part? Some of the best meals you’ll eat won’t cost much at all. Night markets, local restaurants, and convenience stores offer surprisingly good food without burning a hole in your wallet.

Travel Style	Daily Budget (USD)	Key Focus
Budget Traveler	$40 – $60	Hostels and Night Markets
Mid-Range	$80 – $120	Boutique Hotels and Trains
Luxury	$200+	High-end Resorts and Tours

Connectivity: SIM Cards and Pocket Wi-Fi

Staying connected in Taiwan is incredibly easy.

I recommend picking up a local SIM card as soon as you arrive at the airport. They’re affordable, easy to set up, and the coverage is excellent across most of the country.

If you’re travelling with friends or family, renting a pocket Wi-Fi can also be a great option, allowing multiple devices to stay connected throughout the trip.

Mastering Taiwan Transportation

One of the things that impressed me the most about Taiwan was how easy it is to travel around the country.

Before arriving, I spent a lot of time wondering how I was going to get from one place to another. But after reaching Taiwan, I realised I had been worrying for no reason. Whether you prefer using public transportation or renting a car like we did, getting around Taiwan is surprisingly simple.

The island has one of the best transportation systems I’ve come across, making it easy to explore both the busy cities and the quieter countryside.

Using the EasyCard System

If you’re planning to use public transportation, the very first thing I recommend is getting yourself an EasyCard.

It quickly became one of the most useful things I carried throughout my trip. You can use it on the Taipei MRT, city buses, many local train services, convenience stores, and even at some tourist attractions.

Instead of buying separate tickets every time, simply tap your card and continue your journey.

Trust me… it makes travelling around Taiwan so much easier.

Navigating the Taipei MRT

The Taipei MRT is probably one of the cleanest and easiest metro systems I’ve ever used.

The stations are well organised, trains arrive frequently, and Google Maps does an excellent job of guiding you from one station to another. Even if it’s your first time visiting Taiwan, you’ll get the hang of it within minutes.

If possible, avoid travelling during weekday rush hours, especially in the mornings and evenings, as trains can become quite crowded.

Traveling Between Cities via Taiwan High Speed Rail

If you’re not planning to rent a car, the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) is by far the quickest and most comfortable way to travel between the major cities along Taiwan’s west coast.

The trains are modern, punctual, comfortable, and connect places like Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung in just a few hours.

If you’re travelling during weekends or public holidays, I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance, as popular departures can sell out quickly.

Regional Trains and Bus Networks

While the High Speed Rail is perfect for longer journeys, don’t ignore Taiwan’s regional trains.

Some of my favourite journeys happened on these slower routes. They pass through smaller towns and beautiful countryside that many visitors simply rush past.

Buses are equally reliable, especially if you’re planning to visit mountain areas or places where train services are limited. They might take a little longer, but they often reward you with some incredible scenery along the way.

Renting a Car in Taiwan

If you’re planning to explore beyond Taipei, I highly recommend considering a rental car. During my trip, we rented a car for the entire 10 days, and honestly, I don’t regret it for a second.

While Taiwan’s public transportation is excellent, having a car gave us the freedom to travel at our own pace. We didn’t have to worry about train schedules or bus timings. If we found an interesting viewpoint or a small town along the way, we could simply stop and enjoy it.

Driving in Taiwan is also much easier than I expected. The roads are well maintained, road signs are available in both Chinese and English, and navigation through Google Maps worked perfectly throughout our trip.

That said, I wouldn’t recommend renting a car if you’re only staying in Taipei. The MRT is fast, affordable, and parking can be both expensive and difficult to find in the city.

A rental car becomes truly worthwhile if you’re planning a road trip around the island or visiting places like Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Kenting, Yushan, or smaller towns where public transportation is less frequent.

A few things to keep in mind:

An International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required depending on your country of licence.
Expressways have electronic tolls, which are usually handled automatically by the rental company.
Parking is generally easy outside major cities.
Google Maps is more than enough for navigation.

For me, renting a car made the trip feel much more flexible. Some of my favorite memories came from places we discovered simply because we had the freedom to stop whenever something caught our attention.

🚗 Jerry’s Tip: If you’re planning to explore only Taipei, skip the rental car and use public transport. But if your itinerary includes multiple cities and nature spots like Yushan, Alishan, or Sun Moon Lake, renting a car gives you much more flexibility and lets you discover places that aren’t always easy to reach by train or bus.

Taipei City Highlights and New Year Celebrations

Taipei was my first introduction to Taiwan, and I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better city. It’s one of those places where modern skyscrapers stand right beside centuries-old temples, where busy night markets are only a few streets away from peaceful parks, and somehow everything just works together.

Whether you’re spending a couple of days here or using Taipei as your base to explore the rest of Taiwan, the city has more than enough to keep you busy.

Must-Visit Landmarks in Taipei

No visit to Taipei feels complete without seeing Taipei 101. Once the tallest building in the world, it still dominates the city’s skyline today. The observation deck offers an incredible view over Taipei, especially on a clear day.

But Taipei isn’t just about skyscrapers.

Take some time to visit Longshan Temple, one of the city’s oldest and most famous temples. Walking through the incense-filled halls while locals quietly pray gives you a completely different perspective of the city. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and a nice break from the busy streets outside.

One thing I really enjoyed about Taipei was simply walking around without a plan. Every now and then I’d discover a small café, a local market, or a quiet alley that wasn’t marked on any itinerary. Sometimes those little discoveries become the best part of the trip.

Experiencing Taipei New Year Celebrations

If you ever get the chance to visit Taiwan during New Year’s Eve… don’t even think twice.

Watching the countdown beneath Taipei 101 is something I’ll never forget.

Thousands of people gather around the city, waiting for midnight. The atmosphere slowly builds throughout the evening, and once the countdown begins, the entire place comes alive.

Yes… it gets incredibly crowded.

Yes… you’ll probably spend a long time walking afterwards.

But trust me… it’s absolutely worth it.

Watching the Taipei 101 Fireworks

Seeing fireworks launched directly from one of the tallest buildings in the world is something special.

No matter how many videos you’ve watched online, seeing it in person is a completely different experience. The excitement, the cheering crowd, and those few minutes after midnight are something you’ll remember for a long time.

If you’re planning to experience it yourself, arrive early. The best viewing spots fill up hours before midnight.

Best Viewing Spots for the Fireworks

If you’re looking for panoramic views, Elephant Mountain is probably the most famous spot. The short hike rewards you with an incredible view of Taipei 101 and the fireworks.

If hiking isn’t your thing, the area around Taipei City Hall is another excellent choice. It has a festive atmosphere, live performances, and puts you right in the middle of the celebrations.

Where to Stay in Taipei

Choosing where to stay depends on the kind of trip you’re planning.

Ximending – Perfect for solo travellers, nightlife, shopping, and budget-friendly hostels.
Da’an – A quieter neighbourhood with boutique hotels, cafés, and easy MRT access.
Xinyi – Best for luxury hotels, shopping malls, and being close to Taipei 101.

No matter where you stay, getting around Taipei is incredibly easy thanks to the MRT, so don’t worry too much about being in the “perfect” location.

Discover Taiwan’s Natural Beauty

As much as I loved Taipei, Taiwan’s real beauty begins once you leave the cities behind.

Towering mountains, misty forests, peaceful lakes, dramatic coastlines… it’s hard to believe all of this exists on such a small island.

If you’re someone who enjoys nature even a little, Taiwan won’t disappoint.where. Let’s explore these hidden spots where the air is fresh and views endless.

Hiking Yushan National Park

For me, Yushan was the highlight of my Taiwan trip.

Standing at 3,952 metres, Yushan is the highest mountain in Taiwan and one of the most rewarding hikes I’ve ever done.

It’s not an easy climb. The altitude, changing weather, and permit system mean you’ll need to prepare properly before attempting it.

But once you reach the summit… every difficult step suddenly feels worth it.

(If you’d like to know what it’s actually feels like climbing Yushan, check out my detailed blog where I share everything—from the preparation to standing on Taiwan’s highest point.

Hiking Wuyuan Cape

While Yushan is the hike everyone talks about, Wuyuan Cape quickly became one of my favourite hikes in Taiwan.

I actually visited Wuyuan Cape a few days before climbing Yushan, and it turned out to be the perfect warm-up. It’s completely different from climbing Taiwan’s highest mountain, but equally memorable in its own way.

The trail takes you across rolling green hills overlooking Taiwan’s dramatic eastern coastline. Throughout the hike, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and endless grasslands. Every few minutes I found myself stopping—not because I was tired, but because the views just kept getting better.

What I loved most about Wuyuan Cape was how peaceful it felt. Unlike many of Taiwan’s more famous attractions, the trail lets you slow down, enjoy the scenery, and simply appreciate nature without the crowds.

If you’re looking for a coastal hike that’s suitable for most people and offers incredible scenery without needing permits or technical gear, I highly recommend adding Wuyuan Cape to your itinerary.

Want to know more? I wrote a detailed guide about my hike to Wuyuan Cape, covering everything from the trail conditions and difficulty level to what you can expect along the way.

👉 Read my complete Wuyuan Cape Hiking Guide here.

Watching the Sunrise at Alishan

Alishan is famous for one thing… sunrise.

Watching the morning light slowly appear above a sea of clouds is an experience many travellers come to Taiwan for.

Even beyond sunrise, Alishan is worth exploring. The giant cypress forests, peaceful walking trails, and historic forest railway make it one of the country’s most beautiful mountain destinations.

Cycling Around Sun Moon Lake

If you’re looking for a slower pace, spend a day at Sun Moon Lake.

Rent a bicycle and ride around the lake, stopping whenever a viewpoint catches your attention. There’s lot of Electric cycles so you wont get tired and can cover the entire lake in 1 day. If cycling isn’t your thing, hop on one of the boats that connect different parts of the lake and simply enjoy the scenery.

It’s easily one of the most relaxing places in Taiwan.

Exploring Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge feels completely different from anywhere else in Taiwan.

Towering marble cliffs, suspension bridges, rivers cutting through the mountains… it almost doesn’t feel real.

There are trails suitable for almost everyone, whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer hike.

Note: Before planning your visit, check the latest updates on trail and road conditions, as access can occasionally change due to weather or maintenance.

Destination	Best Activity	Difficulty Level
Yushan	High-altitude trekking	Expert
Alishan	Sunrise viewing	Easy to Moderate
Sun Moon Lake	Cycling and boating	Easy
Taroko Gorge	Canyon hiking	Moderate

Taiwan’s Historic Towns

One thing I loved about Taiwan is how different each town feels.

Some are famous for their history, some for their food, while others simply invite you to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere.

Don’t rush through them.

Spend a little more time wandering the streets, talking to locals, and enjoying the slower pace of life.

Jiufen and Shifen

Jiufen is probably one of Taiwan’s most photographed places, and once you walk through its lantern-lined streets, you’ll understand why.

The narrow alleyways are filled with teahouses, local snacks, and beautiful viewpoints overlooking the mountains.

A short trip away is Shifen, famous for its sky lanterns.

Writing your wishes on a lantern before watching it float into the sky might sound touristy… but once you’re standing there doing it yourself, it’s actually a pretty special experience.

Tainan

If you want to understand Taiwan’s history, make time for Tainan.

As Taiwan’s oldest city, it’s filled with temples, historic buildings, and some of the best food you’ll find anywhere on the island.

Honestly, if you’re a foodie, you could spend days here without getting bored.

Lukang

Lukang feels like stepping back in time.

Traditional houses, beautifully carved temples, and narrow streets make it one of Taiwan’s best-preserved historic towns.

If you enjoy photography or architecture, you’ll probably love this place.

Kenting

After mountains, cities, and temples, Kenting offers something completely different.

Beautiful beaches, clear blue water, surfing, cycling, and some of the best sunsets in southern Taiwan.

It’s the perfect place to slow down before heading home.

A Taste of Taiwan

One thing you absolutely shouldn’t do in Taiwan…

Count calories.

Seriously.

Taiwan is one of those countries where eating becomes part of the adventure.

Some of my favorite meals came from tiny local shops and busy night markets rather than expensive restaurants.

Exploring Taiwan’s Night Markets

If there’s one experience you shouldn’t miss, it’s visiting a night market.

Walk around first before buying anything.

The smell of grilled meat, bubble tea, fried chicken, fresh fruit, desserts… it’s impossible to try everything in one visit.

And don’t worry if you see long queues.

In Taiwan, long lines usually mean one thing…

The food is worth waiting for.

Dishes You Should Try

While you’re in Taiwan, make sure you try:

Stinky Tofu (if you’re brave enough 😂)

Beef Noodle Soup

Braised Pork Rice

Oyster Omelette

Scallion Pancakes

Xiao Long Bao

Bubble Tea

Dish Name	Flavor Profile	Best Served
Beef Noodle Soup	Savory and Rich	Hot
Scallion Pancake	Crispy and Salty	Warm
Bubble Tea	Sweet and Creamy	Chilled
Oyster Omelet	Savory and Eggy	Hot

Dining Etiquette

One thing I really liked about eating in Taiwan is how relaxed everything feels.

Tipping isn’t expected, as service charges are often already included.

If you’re eating at food courts, return your tray after your meal, keep the area clean, and simply be respectful to those around you.

Other than that…

Enjoy every bite.

Suggested Itineraries for First-Time Visitors

One thing I’ve learned from travelling is this…

Don’t try to see everything.

Taiwan might look like a small island on the map, but once you start exploring, you’ll realise there’s so much more than you expected. Instead of rushing from one place to another, try to build an itinerary that gives you enough time to actually enjoy each destination.

To help you get started, here are a few itinerary ideas depending on how many days you have.

5-Day Taiwan Itinerary

If you only have five days, I’d suggest focusing mainly on Taipei and its nearby attractions.

Spend a few days exploring the city, visiting places like Taipei 101, Longshan Temple, Ximending, and some of the famous night markets. Then take a day trip to Jiufen and Shifen, two of Taiwan’s most popular mountain towns.

Leave your final day for shopping, cafés, or simply wandering around Taipei before your flight home.

7-Day Taiwan Itinerary

With a full week, you can experience a much better balance between city life and nature.

Start with three days in Taipei before heading towards Sun Moon Lake, where you can slow things down a little. Rent a bicycle, take a boat ride across the lake, and simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

If you’re someone who enjoys hiking, you can also consider replacing one destination with Yushan National Park, but remember that permits need to be arranged well in advance.

10-Day Taiwan Itinerary

If you have ten days… perfect.

This gives you enough time to experience different sides of Taiwan without constantly feeling rushed.

Start your journey in Taipei before making your way south through Tainan, continue towards Kenting, explore the mountains around Alishan, and if possible, finish your adventure with Taroko Gorge before returning to Taipei.

This is very similar to how I like travelling… slowly, with enough time to enjoy each place instead of just ticking destinations off a checklist.

Itinerary Length	Primary Focus	Pace	Best For
5 Days	Taipei & Surroundings	Fast	City Lovers
7 Days	City & Central Lakes	Moderate	Nature Seekers
10 Days	Full Island Loop	Relaxed	Deep Explorers

At the end of the day, these itineraries are only suggestions.

Feel free to change them according to your interests. Stay an extra day somewhere you love, wake up early for a sunrise, or take a random detour because someone recommended a place you’ve never heard of.

Sometimes those unexpected decisions become the best memories of the trip.

Practical Tips and Cultural Etiquette

Taiwan is honestly one of the easiest countries I’ve travelled to.

People are friendly, public transportation is excellent, and getting around is surprisingly simple. Still, knowing a few small things before your trip can save you from unnecessary surprises.

Safety and Emergency Information

Taiwan is considered one of the safest countries to travel to, and throughout my trip I never felt uncomfortable, even while walking around at night.

Of course, it’s always good to stay aware of your surroundings, just as you would anywhere else in the world.

Save these emergency numbers before your trip:

110 – Police
119 – Fire & Ambulance

Many emergency operators can assist English-speaking travellers if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There aren’t many things travellers get wrong in Taiwan, but these are probably the most common.

Don’t assume every place accepts credit cards. Small restaurants, local shops, and some night market stalls still prefer cash.
Avoid eating or drinking on the Taipei MRT. It’s against the rules and can result in a fine.
Keep your voice down while travelling on public transport. People generally appreciate quieter surroundings.
If you’re visiting popular attractions or travelling during holidays, book accommodation and transport in advance.

Small things… but they’ll make your trip much smoother.

Taiwan for Solo Travellers, Couples & Families

One of the things I really like about Taiwan is that it suits almost every type of traveller.

Solo Travellers

Taiwan is probably one of the easiest places in Asia for solo travel. Safe cities, excellent transportation, and friendly locals make it a great destination if you’re travelling alone for the first time.

Couples

Whether it’s watching the sunrise in Alishan, relaxing in the hot springs of Beitou, or walking through the lantern-lit streets of Jiufen, Taiwan has plenty of peaceful and romantic experiences.

Families

Families will have no problem travelling around Taiwan. Cities are clean, transportation is convenient, and you’ll find parks, museums, night markets, and attractions suitable for children almost everywhere.

Final Thoughts

Taiwan may not be the first country that comes to mind when planning a trip to Asia…

But maybe that’s exactly what makes it so special.

It isn’t trying to impress you with the tallest buildings or the biggest attractions. Instead, it quietly wins you over through its friendly people, beautiful landscapes, incredible food, and the small moments you experience along the way.

Before my trip, I came here looking forward to climbing Yushan and celebrating New Year’s beneath Taipei 101.

I left with something much more valuable.

A country I genuinely can’t wait to return to.

I hope this guide helps make your own journey a little easier. Use it to plan your trip, but don’t let it plan every minute for you. Leave room for surprises, because Taiwan has a funny way of giving you some of your best memories when you least expect them.

Happy travels…

And hopefully, Taiwan surprises you just as much as it surprised me.

— Jerry

FAQ

Is it easy to manage solo travel in Taiwan as a first-timer?

Absolutely. Taiwan is one of the safest countries I’ve travelled to, and I never felt uncomfortable walking around, even at night. Public transportation is easy to use, locals are friendly, and it’s a fantastic destination for first-time solo travellers.

I only have one week; what’s the ideal Taiwan itinerary?

If you have seven days, I’d recommend spending three days exploring Taipei before heading to Jiufen, Shifen, and Sun Moon Lake. If hiking is your priority, consider replacing one destination with Yushan National Park, provided you’ve secured your permits in advance.

What are the absolute must-visit natural landmarks?

If you enjoy hiking, Yushan should definitely be on your list. For beautiful sunrises and peaceful forests, visit Alishan. Sun Moon Lake is perfect if you’re looking for a slower, more relaxing experience, while Taroko Gorge offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Taiwan.

Explore More of Taiwan with Jerry’s Worlds

Taiwan has given me memories I’ll never forget, and this guide is only the beginning.

Over the coming weeks and months, I’ll be sharing detailed travel guides, personal experiences, hiking adventures, photography locations, and itineraries from the places I explored across this beautiful island.

If you’re planning your own trip, keep an eye out for these upcoming guides:

🏙️ Taipei Travel Guide
🏔️ My Journey to the Summit of Yushan
🎆 Celebrating New Year’s in Taipei
🏮 Jiufen & Shifen Travel Guide
🌅 Alishan Travel Guide
🚴 Sun Moon Lake Travel Guide
🥾 Hiking Wuyuan Cape

I hope these guides help you experience Taiwan beyond the usual tourist spots and make planning your own adventure a little easier.