- \r\n \t
- When to visit Taiwan<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- Documents and vaccinations to enter Taiwan<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- What to do and see in Taiwan<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- Possible itineraries in Taiwan<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- How to get around Taiwan<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- Backpacking Taiwan: costs<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
- Backpacking Taiwan: safety<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC09900-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nLord Handan, Taitung.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
<\/div>\r\nWhen to Visit Taiwan<\/h2>\r\n
The best time to visit Taiwan is between October and April, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant, with mild temperatures and low humidity. Summer (May to September) can be very hot and muggy, with frequent rainfall and the risk of typhoons\u2014especially from July to September. Spring and autumn probably offer the best climate overall, with ideal conditions for exploring both nature and cities, while avoiding the intense summer heat and the chill of winter.<\/p>\r\n
I personally visited Taiwan between January and March. Some days were cool, and I never swam in the sea, but overall, the weather was very comfortable. In the end, it really depends on what kind of trip you\u2019re planning. The only time I\u2019d recommend avoiding is June to September\u2014unless you’re a fan of hot, humid weather.<\/p>\r\n
Note: Be especially mindful of Chinese New Year, which can fall anywhere between January 21 and February 20, depending on the year. During this period, the entire country goes on holiday and many locals travel, so it\u2019s essential to book accommodation well in advance!<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DJI_20240126002700_0084_D-HDR-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nSun Moon Lake.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
<\/div>\r\nDocuments and Vaccinations for Entering Taiwan<\/h2>\r\n
Most passport holders with at least six months of remaining validity are granted a free 90-day tourist visa on arrival. However, travelers must complete an online arrival form beforehand<\/a>. Taiwan does not require any mandatory vaccinations for entry.<\/p>\r\n
Note: Taiwan officially requires proof of onward travel within the limits of your visa. This usually isn\u2019t an issue if you have a return flight or a ticket to another country, but it might be if you’re arriving on a one-way ticket. Border checks are up to the discretion of the immigration officer. Personally, I wasn\u2019t asked for anything, but I\u2019ve read accounts where proof was requested.<\/p>\r\n
My advice? Rent a valid onward ticket through a service like OnwardTicket<\/a> (a real, paid option). You can check out this article<\/a> for a deeper dive into the topic.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DJI_20240212051152_0221_D-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nTaroko National Park.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
<\/div>\r\nWhat to Do and See in Taiwan<\/h2>\r\n
Given Taiwan\u2019s geography, I think it makes the most sense to structure this section starting with the capital, Taipei, and continuing clockwise around the island. That said, there are several international airports\u2014personally, I arrived and departed from Kaohsiung. Either way, circling the island (clockwise or counterclockwise) is a great way to explore it efficiently.<\/p>\r\n
Throughout this guide, prices are listed in the local currency. Taiwan\u2019s official currency is the New Taiwan Dollar, abbreviated as TWD. At the time of writing, the exchange rate was approximately \u20ac1 = 34 TWD. For the most up-to-date rates, I recommend checking a currency conversion site like this one<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/TAIWAN.png\")
\r\nNote: You\u2019ll find links throughout this guide to AllTrails<\/a>. To use offline navigation in the AllTrails app, you\u2019ll need to upgrade to the Pro version. However, there\u2019s a workaround: from the desktop site, you can download trail coordinates in Google Earth KML format, then upload them into Organic Maps<\/a>\u2014by far one of my favorite travel apps<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Taipei<\/h3>\r\n
Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is a fascinating city where old meets new: modern skyscrapers stand side by side with centuries-old temples and bustling night markets.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
What to Do and See in Taipei<\/h4>\r\n
A couple of days is enough to cover the city’s main highlights, but Taipei also makes a great base for day trips to the surrounding areas. As with any major city, I recommend joining a free walking tour to get oriented\u2014I did one through GuruWalk<\/a>, and overall it was a fun and informative experience.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08199-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nChiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (Google Maps<\/a>) is one of Taipei\u2019s most iconic landmarks. It honors Chiang Kai-shek, the Nationalist leader who retreated to Taiwan after losing the civil war to the Communists and is widely regarded as the founder of modern Taiwan.<\/p>\r\n
Admission to the memorial is completely free. On the lower floor, there\u2019s a small museum with exhibits\u2014though most of the information is in Chinese. Don\u2019t miss the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every hour from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Arrive a bit early if you want a front-row spot; even on weekdays, it can get crowded.<\/p>\r\n
The hall is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and opens onto Liberty Square (Google Maps<\/a>), where you\u2019ll also find the National Theater (Google Maps<\/a>) and the National Concert Hall (Google Maps<\/a>). It\u2019s a lovely area to walk around.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08517-HDR-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nChiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Elephant Mountain & Xinyi District<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Elephant Mountain offers one of the most iconic views in Taipei, with Taipei 101 dominating the skyline. The trail starts here (Google Maps<\/a>) and is easily accessible by MRT. It\u2019s not difficult to follow, but if you want extra details, you can check out this AllTrails page (All Trails<\/a>).<\/p>\r\n
Most visitors stop at the main viewpoint, but there are plenty of lesser-known trails and lookout points further up that are well worth exploring. If you want a more structured hike, you can follow this route on AllTrails (All Trails<\/a>).<\/p>\r\n
For a quieter alternative with just as impressive views (and far fewer people), I recommend Fuzhou Shan Park (Google Maps<\/a>). Take the MRT to Linguang Station (Google Maps<\/a>), then walk uphill to this viewpoint (Google Maps<\/a>), where you\u2019ll find a scenic terrace\u2014and if you\u2019re lucky, you might have it all to yourself.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08183-HDR-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nElephant Mountain.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Still in the Xinyi District, where Elephant Mountain is located, you can also head up to the observation deck at the top of Taipei 101<\/a> (Google Maps<\/a>). Located on the 89th floor, it offers sweeping views of the city. I didn\u2019t go myself, but I\u2019ve heard it\u2019s well worth the \u20ac20 entry fee\u2014tickets can be purchased online<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n
Nearby, I also recommend stopping by the National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall (Google Maps<\/a>). Sun Yat-Sen (1866\u20131925) was a key figure in the fall of the Qing Dynasty and the founding of the Chinese Republic. Similar to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, you might catch a changing of the guard and some free exhibitions here.<\/p>\r\n
To wrap up your day, head over to the Linjiang Night Market (Google Maps<\/a>) nearby for a taste of Taipei\u2019s fantastic street food scene.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08447-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nDr. Yat-Sen Memorial Hall.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Temples in Taipei<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Taipei is home to dozens of temples, and your interest in visiting them may vary depending on how much time you’ve already spent on the island or in similar places. That said, a few stand out and are definitely worth a visit.<\/p>\r\n
I recommend starting with Mengjia Longshan Temple (Google Maps<\/a>), especially early in the morning\u2014between 6:00 and 8:00 a.m.\u2014when it’s busiest with locals attending prayer. I left around 8:30 and there was still a steady stream of worshippers, which added to the atmosphere.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08249-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nMengjia Longshan Temple.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Another well-known site is Xingtian Temple (Google Maps<\/a>). I arrived around 9:00 a.m. and it was still active with morning prayers. Not far from here, you can also swing by the Taipei Fish Market (Google Maps<\/a>) for a completely different kind of experience.<\/p>\r\n
For something a bit more traditional and peaceful, head to the Taipei Confucius Temple (Google Maps<\/a>) and the nearby Dalongdong Baoan Temple (Google Maps<\/a>). These two are right next to each other, making them an easy combo to visit.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08281-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nTaipei Confucius Temple.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Ximending<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Ximending (Google Maps<\/a>) is one of Taipei\u2019s liveliest and most youthful neighborhoods\u2014often compared to Tokyo\u2019s Shibuya or Harajuku. It\u2019s famous for its neon lights, street performers, clubs, and trendy shops. I especially recommend visiting in the evening, when the area around the Red House (Google Maps<\/a>) comes alive with nightlife and open-air performances.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08544-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nXimending.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
While technically in a different part of town, you could spend the late afternoon exploring the 228 Peace Memorial Park (Google Maps<\/a>), dedicated to the February 28, 1947 incident<\/a>. From there, walk by the Presidential Palace (Google Maps<\/a>), Yuanling Street (Google Maps<\/a>), and Chengzhong Market (Google Maps<\/a>) before heading over to Ximending.<\/p>\r\n
To wrap up the night, head a little farther north to Dihua Street (Google Maps<\/a>) \u2014one of the oldest and most charming pedestrian streets in Taiwan\u2014and don\u2019t miss the nearby Ningxia Night Market (Google Maps<\/a>), one of the best places in the city for street food.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08287-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nDihua Street.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Huashan 1914 Creative Park<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Also worth a visit in Taipei is the Huashan 1914 Creative Park (Google Maps<\/a>). Originally a century-old sake factory, it’s now a cultural hotspot filled with art galleries, studios, and creative spaces. You\u2019ll find everything from contemporary art exhibitions and design stores to installations, performances, and caf\u00e9s.<\/p>\r\n
On weekends, a flower market (Google Maps<\/a>) is held nearby, and Daan Park (Google Maps<\/a>)\u2014Taipei\u2019s largest urban green space\u2014is just a short walk away.<\/p>\r\n
Check the official website<\/a> for upcoming events, including film screenings, live music, and cultural festivals. If you enjoy this kind of creative vibe, consider visiting Treasure Hill Artist Village (Google Maps<\/a>), a repurposed hillside community that now hosts artists\u2019 studios and experimental art projects.<\/p>\r\n
Beitou and Northern Taipei<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Beitou is undoubtedly one of the most popular day trips from Taipei. Known for its natural hot springs, the district is perfect for a relaxing break from the city. If you leave early, you can easily combine Beitou with several other highlights in northern Taipei.<\/p>\r\n
Start by taking the MRT to Xinbeitou Station (Google Maps<\/a>). From there, it’s a short walk to the hot springs area. You\u2019ll find several bathhouse options: The Beitou Public Hot Spring (Google Maps<\/a>) is the cheapest and often recommended, but be aware\u2014they have very specific rules about swimwear. According to them, mine didn\u2019t meet the requirements, so I ended up across the street at Long Nice Hot Spring (Google Maps<\/a>). Here, you bathe nude, so swimsuits aren\u2019t an issue! The pools are gender-separated, the staff is friendly, and the atmosphere is quiet and traditional. I actually recommend coming here directly, but if you\u2019re willing to spend more, there are plenty of other choices in the area as well.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08302-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nThermal Valley.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
After soaking in the hot springs, continue to Thermal Valley (Google Maps<\/a>), a steamy geothermal pool with eerie, swirling mist\u2014admission is free and it’s a unique sight. Also nearby are:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- The Beitou Hot Spring Museum (Google Maps<\/a>) \u2013 free and a quick, interesting stop.<\/li>\r\n \t
- A small but peaceful Buddhist Temple (Google Maps<\/a>).<\/li>\r\n \t
- The Beitou Museum (Google Maps<\/a>) \u2013 I didn\u2019t go in, but it looked worth a visit if you have time.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
To wrap up your visit to Beitou, consider heading up to Sulfur Valley (Google Maps<\/a>). I walked there, but a bus is also available. Entrance is free, and you can soak your feet in warm, mineral-rich pools while admiring the volcanic landscape dotted with steaming fumaroles.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08304-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nSulfur Valley.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Optional Add-Ons After Beitou<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Depending on your time and energy, you\u2019ve got a few solid options for continuing the day:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- Take the MRT to Tamsui (Google Maps<\/a>) to stroll the scenic riverside boardwalk filled with street food stalls and small shops. From there, you can take the ferry across to Bali (Google Maps<\/a>), but personally, I found it underwhelming\u2014pleasant, but skippable if you’re short on time.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Instead, I recommend heading to Guandu Temple (Google Maps<\/a>), one of the most impressive temples in Taipei. It was under renovation during my visit but still striking.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08310-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nGuandu Temple.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- For sunset, head up to the Old Place Airplane Observation Deck (Google Maps<\/a>), which offers panoramic views of the airport and Taipei skyline. To get there, take the MRT to Jiantan (Google Maps<\/a>) and follow the trails mapped in Organic Maps<\/a>.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Alternatively, the Jinmianshan Trail (Google Maps<\/a>) leads to the famous Scissors Rock viewpoint (Google Maps<\/a>). It\u2019s a bit trickier to reach from Beitou and offers similar views, so I\u2019d only recommend it if you’re specifically interested in that hike.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08346-HDR-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nOld Place Airplane Observation Deck.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
After sunset, wrap up the day at Shilin Night Market (Google Maps<\/a>), one of the biggest and best night markets in Taipei.<\/p>\r\n
If you\u2019re more of a museum-goer, consider substituting your post-Beitou plans with a visit to the National Palace Museum (Google Maps<\/a>), which houses the world\u2019s largest collection of ancient Chinese artifacts.<\/p>\r\n
As you can see, there are plenty of great ways to spend a full day exploring the north side of Taipei!<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08387-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nShilin Night Market.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Yehliu Geopark<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Although I didn\u2019t personally visit, Yehliu Geopark (Google Maps<\/a>) is a well-known day trip from Taipei. The park is famous for its bizarre and fascinating rock formations, sculpted over millennia by wind and sea erosion. A close friend of mine visited and said it was definitely worth the trip.<\/p>\r\n
If you decide to go, consider also stopping by the nearby Guihou Fish Market (Google Maps<\/a>)\u2014a great spot for fresh seafood and local snacks.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08398-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nShifen<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Shifen is another popular destination for a day trip from Taipei. I\u2019ll be honest\u2014I didn\u2019t go, because I felt the area didn\u2019t offer enough to justify a visit. However, many travelers enjoy it, especially for:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- Shifen Old Street (Google Maps<\/a>).<\/li>\r\n \t
- Shifen Waterfall (Google Maps<\/a>), one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Taiwan.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
If you’re looking for something more active, consider:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- Hiking up to Mount Wufenshan (Google Maps<\/a>) \u2013 you can find a detailed route on (All Trails<\/a>).<\/li>\r\n \t
- Taking the train to Sandiaoling (Google Maps<\/a>) and hiking the Sandiaoling Trail (All Trails<\/a>), which passes three waterfalls.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Many travelers combine Shifen with Jiufen (more on that below), doing Shifen in the morning and Jiufen in the afternoon\/evening. You could even spend the night in Jiufen if you want a slower pace.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08568-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nWhere to Sleep in Taipei?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n
I had originally wanted to stay at Star Hostel Taipei Main Station<\/a>, which came highly recommended by friends, but it was fully booked during my trip. Instead, I stayed at 4Plus Hostel<\/a>\u2014great value for money and quite well located. I\u2019d definitely recommend it if you\u2019re on a budget.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
How to Reach Taipei?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Taipei is extremely well connected to the rest of the country:<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- Trains: Regular trains link Taipei with most major cities.<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
- High-Speed Rail (HSR): Runs down the west coast all the way to Kaohsiung and cuts travel time significantly.<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
- Air: Taipei is home to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, the country\u2019s main international hub, with direct flights to many global destinations.<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
For more detailed information on transportation, check out the travel logistics section of this guide.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08207-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nNational Theater & Concert Hall.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Jiufen<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
Perched in the misty hills of northern Taiwan, Jiufen was once a gold mining town. Today, its narrow alleys captivate visitors with old-world charm and a magical atmosphere that famously inspired the film Spirited Away<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DJI_20240205093354_0175_D-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nJiufen.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
What to Do and See in Jiufen<\/h4>\r\n
Though Jiufen has become quite touristy in recent years, its streets remain incredibly photogenic\u2014especially in the evening when the lanterns glow and the fog rolls in. I visited on a rainy Monday and it was still packed, so I can only imagine the crowds on weekends! Still, wandering the main street (Google Maps<\/a>) is a must-do.<\/p>\r\n
One of the town\u2019s most iconic sights is A-Mei Teahouse (Google Maps<\/a>), often photographed for its classic red lanterns and traditional architecture.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08606-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nA-Mei Teahouse.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Gold Museum<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
The Gold Museum (Google Maps<\/a>) isn’t just one museum, but a collection of exhibitions focused on the town\u2019s mining past and the geology of the region. Admission is only 80 TWD, and I found it well worth it. For an additional 50 TWD, you can also visit a restored mining tunnel. I personally skipped it, but considering it’s just over a euro, it might be worth a look.<\/p>\r\n
To get there from Jiufen, catch a direct bus to Jinguashigong Station (Google Maps<\/a>), which drops you off right at the museum entrance. Buses run frequently. There\u2019s also a FamilyMart inside the museum (Google Maps<\/a>) if you need food or supplies.<\/p>\r\n
If you have time, you can also hop back on the bus or walk to visit the nearby Golden Waterfall (Google Maps<\/a>)\u2014a short trip and visually striking.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08595-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nJiufen.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Hiking Near Jiufen<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
Unfortunately, the weather during my visit was dismal\u2014it rained for two days straight, so I had to scrap some plans. That said, based on my research, there are two worthwhile hikes in the area:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
- \r\n \t
- Mount Keelung Trail (All Trails<\/a>): A relatively short hike with panoramic views of Jiufen and the coast.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Teapot Mountain Loop (All Trails<\/a>): This more ambitious trail starts near the Gold Museum and offers dramatic scenery. For experienced hikers, there\u2019s also a longer route available (All Trails<\/a>).<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Where to Sleep in Jiufen?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n
I stayed at Linyuan Village<\/a>\u2014a cozy guesthouse run by an elderly couple who don\u2019t speak English but were wonderfully hospitable. The rooms were clean, affordable, and within walking distance of the old town. Highly recommended if you\u2019re looking for authentic local hospitality.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
How to Reach Jiufen?<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n
The easiest way to reach Jiufen is to take a train to Ruifang Station (Google Maps<\/a>), from where you can catch a frequent bus directly to Jiufen. Get off at this stop (Google Maps<\/a>) which is closest to the old town.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
For more detailed transport tips, refer to the travel section of this guide.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08637-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nJiufen.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
Jiaoxi<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
From Jiufen, I went directly to Hualien, but if you\u2019re looking for a relaxing stop along the way, Jiaoxi is a great option. Easily accessible from Taipei, it\u2019s popular for its hot springs, similar to those in Beitou, and can also be visited as a day trip from the capital. There are options here to suit all budgets and preferences\u2014you can find a detailed guide here<\/a>. Nearby, there\u2019s also a waterfall worth visiting (Google Maps<\/a>).<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Hualien & Taroko National Park<\/h3>\r\n
Note: This region was severely affected by the 2024 earthquake, which occurred just a few months after my visit. As of this writing, parts of Taroko National Park remain closed, and bus services are partially disrupted. I highly recommend checking the official website<\/a> for the most current updates before planning your trip.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
For many travelers, Hualien serves primarily as the gateway to the iconic Taroko National Park\u2014one of the country’s natural jewels, famous for its dramatic gorges, lush forests, and towering marble cliffs. It\u2019s easily one of the highlights of a trip to Taiwan.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DJI_20240212051427_0229_D-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nTaroko National Park.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n
What to Do and See in Hualien & Taroko National Park<\/h4>\r\n
Although many visitors only spend a single day inside the park, you can easily extend your stay depending on your interest in hiking and exploring nearby areas. There\u2019s more than enough here to fill several days.<\/p>\r\n
Taroko National Park<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
The main tourist zone runs along the Taroko Gorge, carved by the Liwu River, with a scenic road connecting various trailheads, viewpoints, and historical sites. Whether you’re in the mood for an easy walk or a more demanding hike, you\u2019ll find plenty of choices. Below is a list of recommended stops and trails, roughly ordered from east to west\u2014that is, from the sea toward the mountains.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DJI_20240212002541_0192_D-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nTaroko National Park.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
Shakadang and Tongli Loop<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
For an easier hike, consider just doing the Shakadang Trail (All Trails<\/a>) up to Sanjianwu (Google Maps<\/a>). The trail is mostly flat, runs right along the gorge, and is truly scenic\u2014but expect crowds, especially midday. From Sanjianwu, simply turn back the same way.<\/p>\r\n
That said, if you’re up for about 1500 meters of elevation gain, the Shakadang and Tongli Loop (All Trails<\/a>) was hands down my favorite hike in the park. I recommend starting and finishing at the Visitor Center (Google Maps<\/a>). Unlike the default AllTrails route, I suggest including the summit of Mt. Liwushan (Google Maps<\/a>)\u2014there’s no view, but the moss-filled forest is stunning.<\/p>\r\n
Don’t miss this viewpoint (Google Maps<\/a>), offering jaw-dropping coastal views where mountains plunge straight into the sea. Bring plenty of food and water, as there’s nowhere to restock along the way.<\/p>\r\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DSC08676-Edit.jpg\")
\r\nLiwushan.<\/em><\/p>\r\n
I took the first bus out of Hualien and started the hike at 7:15 a.m., finishing back at the visitor center at 2:45 p.m.\u2014moving quickly with only short breaks.<\/p>\r\n
If that sounds like too much, consider staying overnight in Datong Village (Google Maps<\/a>)\u2014here are a few guesthouse options (Google Maps<\/a>) (Google Maps<\/a>). I\u2019m not sure how reservations work, but you could try messaging the Facebook pages listed on Maps. If you spend the night, hiking up to the viewpoint for sunrise (Google Maps<\/a>) is absolutely worth it.<\/p>\r\n
Changchun Shrine (Eternal Spring Shrine)<\/strong><\/p>\r\n
- Teapot Mountain Loop (All Trails<\/a>): This more ambitious trail starts near the Gold Museum and offers dramatic scenery. For experienced hikers, there\u2019s also a longer route available (All Trails<\/a>).<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
- High-Speed Rail (HSR): Runs down the west coast all the way to Kaohsiung and cuts travel time significantly.<\/em><\/li>\r\n \t
- Taking the train to Sandiaoling (Google Maps<\/a>) and hiking the Sandiaoling Trail (All Trails<\/a>), which passes three waterfalls.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
- Shifen Waterfall (Google Maps<\/a>), one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Taiwan.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
- Alternatively, the Jinmianshan Trail (Google Maps<\/a>) leads to the famous Scissors Rock viewpoint (Google Maps<\/a>). It\u2019s a bit trickier to reach from Beitou and offers similar views, so I\u2019d only recommend it if you’re specifically interested in that hike.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
- Instead, I recommend heading to Guandu Temple (Google Maps<\/a>), one of the most impressive temples in Taipei. It was under renovation during my visit but still striking.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
- A small but peaceful Buddhist Temple (Google Maps<\/a>).<\/li>\r\n \t
- Documents and vaccinations to enter Taiwan<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t
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