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Taiwan Travel Tips: 12 Things to Know Before You Visit

Taiwan dazzles visitors with its vibrant fusion of cultural treasures, culinary delights, natural wonders and warm hospitality. This enchanting island offers an unforgettable travel experience, from the buzzing night markets of Taipei to the serene Sun Moon Lake 鈥� there is something to captivate every wanderlust spirit.

As you plan your Taiwanese adventure, these insider tips promise to enhance your journey across this fascinating destination. Whether you desire to tantalize your taste buds with mouthwatering street food, lose yourself amidst picturesque landscapes, or immerse in age-old traditions, Taiwan awaits to mesmerize.

1. Taiwan is Famed for its Vibrant Night Markets

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No Taiwanese experience is complete without diving into their night markets. As the sun sets, these markets transform into a vibrant wonderland bursting with flavors, colors and energy. The wafting aromas of sizzling snacks, bright displays of merchandise and happy chatter promise a sensory overload. The sprawling Shilin Night Market in Taipei offers the quintessential night market experience. Brace yourself for the crowds as you explore over 500 food stalls serving every snack imaginable.

From stinky tofu, grilled squid and bubble tea to tantalizing desserts 鈥� take your pick! No matter which city you鈥檙e in, make time for its night market. The Nanya Night Market in Taoyuan, Fengjia Night Market in Taichung and Liuhe Night Market in Kaohsiung each have their unique flair. But one thing they promise without fail is a lively ambiance and streets bursting with flavors.

My Taiwan Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the markets.

2.  Prepare your Taste buds for a Culinary Journey

It鈥檚 no secret that Taiwanese street food seduces travelers from around the globe. Ask anyone who鈥檚 visited Taiwan about their highlight, and 9 out of 10 will mention the food. This tiny island has earned its place among the world鈥檚 greatest street food destinations. From the iconic stinky tofu with its pungent aroma and delicious fried sauce to brined pig鈥檚 blood cake 鈥� Taiwanese street food encompasses a mindboggling range.

While some dishes like Oyster Pancakes and Pepper Buns are familiar to most Asian palates, others like Coffin Bread and the challenging Thousand-Year-Old Eggs might raise some eyebrows! In Taipei, join the early morning crowd at Yong He Soy Milk King to kick start your day with freshly made soy milk and crispy you tiao (fried dough fritters).

My Taiwan Travel Tip: Bring along an empty stomach 鈥� you won’t resist the temptation to taste it all.

3. Jiufen is one of Taiwan鈥檚 Favorite Photography Destination

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Less than an hour鈥檚 drive from Taipei lies the spellbinding mountain town of Jiufen, beckoning like a magical portal to another world. Cobblestoned alleys dripping with red lanterns, historic teahouses frozen in time, and unobstructed Pacific ocean vistas 鈥� Jiufen鈥檚 beauty immediately transfixes your senses.

This charming little town wears many delightful hats. It is a living museum of Taiwan鈥檚 gold mining legacy. A muse for internationally acclaimed films like Hou Hsiao-Hsien鈥檚 City of Sadness and Miyazaki鈥檚 Spirited Away. And an artistic haven with quaint cafes, art galleries and street musicians scattered along its hillside. This magical little hideaway lets you experience the essence of Taiwan 鈥� nostalgic and charming, yet modern and artsy. So take your time to uncover its many delights.

My Taiwan Travel Tip: Venture beyond the tourist spots and discover the charm of Jiufen’s less-explored corners for an authentic experience.

4.  Taiwan Public Transport makes Getting Around a Breeze

While planning any trip, the logistics of getting around can get overwhelming. But Taiwan鈥檚 efficient public transport system promises to make navigation easy, letting you maximize sightseeing and minimize headaches. An extensive High-Speed Rail (HSR) network connects major cities down Taiwan鈥檚 west coast in a fraction of what driving would take.

Within cities, comprehensive metro systems like Taipei MRT and Kaohsiung MRT make attractions easily accessible. But Taiwan鈥檚 crowning transport glory is its buses. An intricate network of routes reaches every corner, while being fast, frequent, comfortable and affordable. To make hopping between metro, trains and buses seamless, get an EasyCard (available at convenience stores). And the best part? If you have spare cash in your EasyCard while leaving Taiwan, you can get the balance refunded at no extra charge!

My Taiwan Travel Tip: Purchase an EasyCard for seamless travel on public transport to spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying your journey.

5. Plan your trip around Spring for the best Chance  to Witness Cherry Blossoms  

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As the northern hemisphere thaws after a cold winter, Taiwan transforms into a pretty pink paradise 鈥� the cherry blossom season has arrived! While the entire island celebrates this floral phenomenon, nowhere rivals Alishan鈥檚 spectacular sakura spectacle in the springtime. Soft pink petals dance in the gentle breeze as sunlight filters through the canopy.

Watching Alishan鈥檚 landscapes transform under sakura鈥檚 spell is an iconic Taiwan experience. The best time to witness the floral magic is late March to early April before the flowers fade. Make your way up the Alishan National Scenic Area early morning to capture the perfect Instagram shot amid picture-perfect scenes without the crowds.

My Taiwan Travel Tip: Don鈥檛 restrict yourself to the main Alishan Park or the popular Zhushan Trail. Escape the tourist hordes by seeking Sakura bliss around smaller towns like Zhuqi, where lantern-lit orchards and tea plantations form charming picnic spots.

6. The National Palace Museum is a Treasure Trove for History Buffs

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No introduction to Taiwan is complete without understanding the island鈥檚 complex history and cultural influences. The National Palace Museum in Taipei serves as the perfect starting point with its world-famous collection of Chinese imperial artifacts spanning millennia. Even if history is not your favorite subject, you鈥檒l be captivated by the sheer artistry, craftsmanship and significance behind these national treasures.

The star attractions undoubtedly are the museum鈥檚 precious paintings and calligraphy masterpieces by historical luminaries like Zhang Daqian. With each exhibit accompanied by insightful descriptions in English, the museum promises an enriching experience letting you appreciate Chinese arts, culture and the role of dynastic histories in shaping Taiwan鈥檚 heritage.

7.  Taipei 101: Iconic Skyline Marvel

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Soaring high in the heart of Taipei stands the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper, keeping a watchful eye over the buzzing city. Majestic by day and dazzling by night with its light show extravaganza, Taipei 101 has plenty of delights in store for visitors. Start your visit by joining the swift elevator ride to the 89th-floor Observatory. Brace yourself as your ears pop while zipping up at stomach-churning speed to a height of 1,441 ft. Step out onto the deck and spectacular 360掳 views greet you – skyscrapers glistening around Taipei, suburban towns in the distance, and verdant hills farther beyond.

Visit at dusk on a clear evening for an unforgettable golden sunset panorama. For shopping cravings, escape the observatory crowds by heading to the peaceful B1 and B2 level food streets to indulge in Michelin-rated restaurants and gourmet bites.

My Taiwan Travel Tip: Beat the crowds by visiting during off-peak hours.

8.  Sun Moon Lake is a Fitting Escape from the Urban Hustle

Shrouded in myths, hailed in poetry and dazzling as the largest alpine lake in Taiwan 鈥� behold the ethereal beauty of Sun Moon Lake. Surrounded by lush mountains, crystal waters invite you to discover its many charms. To get to the Sun Moon Lake hop aboard one of its colourful ferry boats. As you cruise past tiny islets and tranquil bays, light breezes caress your face. On reaching the picturesque Xuanzang Temple, discover its strong Chinese and Indian architectural influences with traditional pagodas mingling amid Hindu motifs. After paying your respects, embark on scenic lakeside hikes under canopies of cherry blossoms or emerald foliage – depending on the season.

9.  For Spiritual Experience visit  Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

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In Taiwan鈥檚 southern port city of Kaohsiung lies a spiritual sanctuary radiating serenity – the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. Surrounded by lush gardens, this majestic shrine-museum hybrid beautifully fuses Chinese and Indian architectural motifs just like its muse 鈥� Buddha himself. Gorgeous pagodas feature intricately carved towers, while tranquil ponds and bamboo groves add to its aesthetic charm.

Learn about Buddhist practices and symbolism associated with intricate mandalas and prayer wheels. And be mesmerized by towering golden statues of reclining Buddha flanked by disciples and devotees – the sheer scale captivates! The soulful chanting, hypnotic drumming and wafting incense transport you to peace amidst the rituals helping you to probably discover some inner zen along the way! 

10.  Revel in Taitung County鈥檚 Laidback Vibe

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While Taiwan鈥檚 west coast plays host to the tourist hordes, the east coast promises to take you off the beaten path for exceptional experiences minus the crowds. And leading the charge in authentic culture, breathtaking nature and relaxed vivacity is beautiful Taitung County. Lying beyond the high coastal mountains, Taitung鈥檚 remote location fostered Taiwan鈥檚 largest indigenous population and pristine landscapes away from rapid modernization. Sightseeing plays second fiddle here after feeling sand between your toes, connecting with smiling locals and surrendering yourself to nature鈥檚 healing powers. Frolick by the golden beaches as sunbeams dance over the Pacific waves.  

My Taiwan Travel Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the coastal roads and hidden gems scattered throughout Taitung.

11.  Experience Taiwanese Hospitality in Traditional Tea Houses

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Call it teahouses, tea rooms or chashitsu 鈥� Taiwan boasts charming sanctuaries for the art of tea all over. Each venue promises delightful ambiance pairing tea tasting with views, sweets, cultural experiences or even fine dining. Allow seasoned tea masters to guide your tasting experience of rare aged oolongs, paired perfectly with multicourse modern banquets. For straight-from-the-source experiences, visit plantations like Shan Lin Xi High Mountain Oolong Tea Farm. Learn first-hand about cultivation, watch artisanal production methods, and become an expert in distinguishing Formosa鈥檚 prized tea types. 

My Taiwan Travel Tip: Just remember to mind traditional teahouse etiquette – keep voices low, avoid strong perfumes and follow the master鈥檚 recommendations for best enjoyment.

12. Be a Champion of Mindful Travel through Etiquette

They say cultures thrive by adapting traditions to times and Taiwan beautifully balances its age-old ethics with progressive attitudes. But just like you鈥檇 respect social norms back home, following basic etiquette here fosters positive travel memories underpinned by mindfulness.

Some of the things to take cognizance of are:

• Temples and Shrines: Remember to remove hats/caps and shoes at most sites as a sign of reverence before entering these sacred spaces, even if they seem open air. Keep voices low, avoid overt displays of affection and ensure conservative dressing to prevent offending devotees.
• Personal Interactions: Taiwanese greatly value family ties and work ethics, so avoid blunt questioning regarding these early into new friendships. Politely clarify background context if such personal discussions still persist and make you uncomfortable.
• Food Habits: Taiwanese relish shared dining experiences, enthusiastically urging visitors to taste new dishes. But don鈥檛 feel pressured into eating anything you absolutely detest or exceeds dietary restrictions! It鈥檚 perfectly fine to politely decline while emphasizing you mean no disrespect towards their food culture.
• Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos featuring people, especially at religious places or cultural events. Avoid capturing individuals if they seem uncomfortable, plus be sensitive before shooting indigenous communities.

Follow these tips, keep an open attitude and Taiwan will surprise you with diverse experiences 鈥� whether you seek ancient artistic beauty, 鈥淚nstagrammable鈥� train journeys or spiritual inspiration. But more importantly, it will capture your heart with its endearing personality.