ByBest places to visit in Taiwan Countryside
Why Taiwan Countryside is a Hidden Gem ?
When people think of Taiwan, they often picture the busy streets of Taipei, the lively night markets or the famous Taiwan beach resorts. But Taiwan’s real beauty lies in its peaceful countryside, an underrated gem in Asia.. From stunning mountains to calm lakes, you’ll find some of the best places to visit in Taiwan countryside. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Taiwan, the countryside has a lot to offer.
In these quiet spots, you can explore small villages, join local festivals, and discover a different side of Taiwan. Whether you’re hiking through green hills or relaxing by a peaceful lake, the countryside is a great escape from the city. This guide will show you why these hidden places are top Taiwan tourist attractions and why they should be on your travel list.
What to Expect in Taiwan’s Countryside
The countryside of Taiwan offers an escape from the city’s hustle. Whether you’re looking for natural wonders or a glimpse into rural life, Taiwan’s countryside has something for every traveler.
- Natural Wonders: From dramatic mountain ranges to tranquil lakes, the landscapes are a photographer’s dream. For nature lovers, these areas are some of the best places to visit in taiwan.
- Rural Life: Steeped in tradition, the countryside reflects the island’s cultural roots. Exploring the local villages offers a unique look into Taiwan’s history and traditions.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Beyond the popular tourist spots, there are hidden treasures waiting to be explored. From Hualien County to Yilan County, Taiwan, the less-traveled paths offer peaceful retreats away from the crowds.
Discovering the Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Taiwan’s Countryside
Taiwan’s countryside offers a remarkable variety of destinations, from majestic mountains to tranquil lakes, all waiting to be explored. Whether you are a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or someone looking for a peaceful escape, these top 10 places highlight the very best that the Taiwan countryside has to offer.
In the sections below, we will explore some of Taiwan’s most picturesque and culturally rich locations that should be on every traveler’s itinerary. Each destination offers something unique—be it breathtaking landscapes, traditional Taiwanese life, or thrilling outdoor activities. Let’s dive into these beautiful spots, starting with the famous Taroko Gorge.
Taroko Gorge: A Journey Through Taiwan’s Majestic Marble Canyons
One of the most iconic taiwan tourist attractions is Taroko National Park. Home to the breathtaking Taroko Gorge, this park is one of the best places to visit in Taiwan. Visitors are captivated by the sheer beauty of the towering marble cliffs, deep gorges, and the stunning turquoise rivers that carve through the landscape.
The park is a testament to Taiwan’s geological history, offering visitors a rare chance to explore its unique marble formations and lush greenery. this Park is not only a natural wonder but also holds cultural significance, with indigenous groups such as the Truku people having a long history connected to the region. Travelers will find themselves immersed in both the natural beauty and the rich heritage that defines this part of Taiwan.
Why Visit Taroko National Park ?
Taroko National Park is a must-visit for adventure seekers. Its stunning mountain gorges, towering cliffs, and crystal-clear rivers make it a natural paradise. Hike along the trails and take in the panoramic views of the Taiwan countryside tour.
Best Activities
- Hiking Trails: The Shakadang Trail is perfect for beginners, offering easy access to the park’s scenic views.
- Waterfalls: Don’t miss the Eternal Spring Shrine, where water cascades down into the valley.
- Scenic Drives: Driving along the Suhua Highway is one of the most thrilling things to do in taiwan, with views of dramatic cliffs and the blue ocean below.
Insider Tip
To avoid the crowds, visit Taroko National Park early in the morning. It’s the best way to experience the peaceful beauty of this natural wonder.
Alishan: The Legendary Sunrise and Tea Plantations
Alishan is one of the most famous Taiwan countryside places to visit, known for its stunning sunrises and endless mountain views. Its rich cultural history and lush tea plantations make it a key stop for any rural area tour.
At dawn, visitors gather to see the sunrise, which reveals a beautiful sea of clouds rolling over the mountains. Alishan is also an important part of Taiwan’s tea culture. Travelers can visit tea farms, learn how tea is made, and taste some of the best oolong tea. With its peaceful landscapes and deep cultural roots, Alishan offers a perfect mix of nature and tradition for anyone visiting the Taiwan rural area.
Why Visit Alishan?
A visit to Alishan isn’t complete without witnessing the famous sunrise over the mountains. As the sun rises, the sea of clouds creates an unforgettable view. This, combined with the centuries-old Hinoki cypress forests, makes Alishan a must-see on any Taiwan countryside tour.
Cultural Highlight
Alishan is known for its tea culture. Travelers can explore local tea plantations to experience traditional Taiwanese tea-making processes, making this one of the top things to do in taiwan for cultural enthusiasts.
Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: Early morning to see the sunrise.
- Getting there: Take the scenic train ride from Chiayi to Alishan, one of the most beautiful routes in Taiwan.
- Where to stay: Choose from cozy mountain lodges or Taiwan countryside hotels near the tea plantations.
Sun Moon Lake: The Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture
Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s most picturesque lakes and a highlight among Taiwan tourist attractions. Surrounded by mountains, this natural wonder blends beautiful views with a rich cultural history. Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s most beautiful and peaceful places to visit, often considered one of the top Taiwan tourist attractions.
Surrounded by calm mountains, the lake offers amazing views and a quiet atmosphere. It is not only known for its beauty but also for its rich culture. The indigenous Thao people live here, and visitors can learn about their traditions by visiting their villages. You can also enjoy cycling around the lake, taking boat rides, or visiting the famous Wenwu Temple, which overlooks the water. Sun Moon Lake is the perfect place to enjoy nature while connecting with Taiwan’s culture.
Why Visit Sun Moon Lake ?
The calm waters of Sun Moon Lake reflect the surrounding mountains, making it a scenic haven for tourists. It’s not only one of the best places to visit in Taiwan, but it’s also home to the indigenous Thao people, adding a unique cultural dimension.
What to Do Sun Moon Lake ?
- Cycling: Bike along the lake’s scenic paths, offering breathtaking views of both the water and mountain landscapes.
- Boat Rides: Take a boat across the lake to explore its islands.
- Cultural Spots: Visit the Wenwu Temple, a cultural landmark with beautiful architecture and stunning views of the lake.
Cultural Highlight
Explore the indigenous Thao culture around Sun Moon Lake. Their traditional customs and crafts are an essential part of the region’s identity, making this lake one of the most culturally rich Taiwan countryside places to visit.
Cingjing Farm: Rolling Hills and Fresh Mountain Air
If you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing place in the Taiwan countryside, Cingjing Farm which is also known as Qingjing Farm is the perfect choice. It is famous for its green hills and cool air, making it a great escape from the heat of Taiwan’s lower areas.
The Cingjing farm has open fields where sheep wander, and visitors can enjoy the calm, peaceful atmosphere. You can also try fresh local food while taking in the beautiful views of the mountains. Cingjing Farm is the ideal spot to relax, enjoy nature, and experience the best of the Taiwan countryside
Why Visit Cingjing Farm ?
Cingjing Farm offers beautiful vistas of mountains and wide-open pastures where you can watch sheep eat grass and enjoy the peaceful beauty of nature. This is one of the most relaxing Taiwan countryside places to visit, perfect for travelers who want to experience rural life.
Things to Do
- Sheep Shows: Watch sheep-shearing demonstrations, a popular attraction for visitors.
- Scenic Walks: Explore the alpine pastures for beautiful views and fresh mountain air.
- Farmstays: Stay at a local farmstay for a peaceful retreat and taste the traditional cuisine of the region.
Practical Tips
- Best accommodation: Mountain lodges and Taiwan countryside hotels are available around Cingjing Farm.
- Food: Don’t miss the farm-to-table dining experiences, where you can enjoy fresh tofu and other local dishes.
Jiufen: A Step Back in Time in Taiwan’s Old Mountain Town
Jiufen is a charming old town set in the mountains., known for its narrow streets, old tea houses, and beautiful views. Once a gold mining town, it still has many traditional Japanese-era buildings.
Walking through Jiufen feels like stepping back in time. Visitors can explore old tea shops, visit small temples, and wander through markets selling local snacks and souvenirs. The iconic stairways that wind through the town offer beautiful views of the coast and hills, making Jiufen a favorite stop for both history lovers and photographers.
Cultural Significance
Jiufen is not just famous for its views. Its history as a mining town during the Japanese era makes it one of the most culturally rich places in taiwan countryside. Exploring the narrow alleys, visitors can get a glimpse of what life was like during Taiwan’s gold rush.
Best Experiences
- Try the local tea houses, where you can relax and enjoy traditional Taiwanese teas.
- Visit the gold mining museum to learn more about Jiufen’s history.
- Enjoy local street food like taro balls and peanut ice cream wraps.
Miaoli: The Heart of Taiwan’s Hakka Culture
Miaoli is a quiet area known for its connection to Taiwan’s Hakka community. It’s one of the top taiwan countryside places to visit if you’re interested in culture and history. Miaoli offers visitors a chance to learn about Hakka traditions, from their unique architecture to their flavorful cuisine.
The area is also home to tea farms where you can experience the local tea culture firsthand. Miaoli comes alive during Hakka festivals, making it the perfect place to experience a deeper side of Taiwan’s heritage.
Cultural Experience
In Miaoli, visitors can see traditional Hakka houses and learn about their way of life. The Hakka people are known for their deep respect for nature, which is reflected in both their architecture and their farming techniques.
Best Time to Visit
To experience Miaoli at its best, plan your trip during the Hakka festivals or the tea harvest season. This is when the area is most lively, with cultural events and local foods on full display.
Yunlin: Agricultural Heartland and Handicrafts
Yunlin is a key area in Taiwan’s agricultural industry. Here, visitors can see endless fields of rice paddies and visit traditional farms. Yunlin is also known for its craftsmanship, especially in the art of making paper umbrellas and traditional handicrafts. Visitors can join workshops to learn about these crafts and try making them themselves. Staying in Yunlin is a great opportunity to experience rural life and enjoy farm-to-table meals, where all the food is made fresh from local farms.
Cultural Highlight
The local art of making paper umbrellas is something unique to Yunlin. Visitors can join a workshop to learn this traditional craft, which has been passed down for generations.
Where to Stay?
For a real countryside experience, stay in one of Yunlin’s rural homestays. You’ll get to enjoy fresh meals made from local ingredients and take part in the daily life of the local farmers.
Hualien: Gateway to Taiwan’s East Coast and Indigenous Beach Culture
Hualien is a scenic area located on Taiwan’s east coast, known for its natural beauty and connection to indigenous cultures. Visitors can enjoy stunning coastal views, explore traditional villages, and take part in local festivals that celebrate indigenous heritage.
Hualien also offers easy access to Taroko National Park, one of the top tourist spots in Taiwan. Whether you’re interested in surfing, sampling local food, or learning about the Amis and Atayal tribes, Hualien is a great mix of nature and culture.
Cultural Highlight
In Hualien, visitors can connect with Taiwan’s indigenous cultures by visiting local villages and attending traditional festivals. The Amis and Atayal tribes share their rich history through dance, music, and crafts.
Must-Do Activities
- Try local indigenous foods, such as millet wine and traditional rice dishes.
- Visit the Taroko National Park for breathtaking hikes.
- Explore the scenic coastal drives along Taiwan’s east coast.
Taitung: A Relaxing Escape with Beaches and Slow-Paced Life on Taiwan’s East Coast
Taitung is a quiet area on Taiwan’s east coast, known for its beaches, rice fields, and hot springs. Many travelers visit to enjoy the calm atmosphere and connect with nature. Local experts recommend Taitung for its slower pace and cultural attractions. You can relax on the beach, go surfing, or explore the local art scene. Taitung is also home to indigenous communities, who share their traditions through festivals and events, giving visitors a chance to experience their unique culture.
The Harvest Festival is one of the most popular events, highly recommended for travelers interested in learning about Taiwan’s indigenous people. Local tourism experts often recommend Taitung for its quiet surroundings and rich cultural experiences, making it a great place to relax and explore Taiwan’s traditions.
Cultural Significance
Taitung is home to the Amis and Paiwan tribes, two important indigenous groups in Taiwan. Their deep connection to the land is celebrated during events like the Harvest Festival, where they share their music, dance, and food with visitors. These festivals give tourists a chance to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Taiwan’s indigenous people.
Best Activities
- Visit Dulan Village: A popular place for surfing and art, known for its relaxed atmosphere and creative energy. The village has art galleries, surf shops, and a vibrant local scene.
- Relax at Jhiben Hot Springs: These natural hot springs are surrounded by nature and offer a peaceful place to relax and recharge.
- Explore Taitung Forest Park: Perfect for biking or walking, the park offers scenic paths and fresh air, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
Yilan: Hot Springs, Agriculture, and Traditional Festivals
Yilan is a peaceful area close to Taipei, known for its hot springs, farms, and festivals. Visitors often take a short trip from Taipei to enjoy Yilan’s natural beauty, fresh food, and relaxing hot springs in Jiaoxi.
The area is famous for its rice fields and farming traditions. Yilan’s quiet countryside is the perfect escape from the busy life in Taipei. The region has a strong agricultural heritage, with many farms still using traditional methods. Yilan is also well-known for its cultural festivals, which attract visitors who want to experience authentic Taiwanese traditions.
Cultural Experiences
Yilan gives visitors a chance to experience Taiwan’s farming traditions firsthand. Many local farms welcome visitors to see how crops like rice are grown. One of the best places to enjoy the local food culture is the Luodong Night Market, where fresh and local dishes are served. Jiaoxi Hot Springs is a popular spot in Yilan. People visit for the naturally warm water, which is great for relaxing.
Practical Tips
- Stay at a Hot Spring Resort: Jiaoxi has many hot spring resorts, perfect for a relaxing stay.
- Visit the National Center for Traditional Arts: A great place to learn about local crafts and traditions.
- Try Local Food: Yilan is known for its scallion pancakes and cherry duck, two dishes you must try when visiting.
Practical Guide to Exploring Taiwan’s Countryside
How to Get Around ?
Traveling around the Taiwan countryside is best done by car or scooter. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore remote areas at your own pace and visit hidden spots that are hard to reach by public transport. While buses are available, a car or scooter is much more convenient for getting to places off the beaten path. Renting from trusted agencies like Avis, Hertz, or local companies such as Ching Bing Car Rental ensures you have a safe and well-maintained vehicle, making your journey easier and more enjoyable.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit the Taiwan countryside is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These months offer cooler, pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities. If you visit during the harvest season, especially in regions like Miaoli and Yunlin, you can experience local festivals and activities that showcase the rich agricultural heritage of the area. This timing not only enhances your travel experience but also allows you to connect deeply with the local culture and traditions.
Where to Stay ?
From rural homestays to eco-lodges, Taiwan’s countryside offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to different preferences. Staying in a local farm or family-run guesthouse not only immerses you in the area’s unique culture but also supports the local community. For an authentic farm stay, consider places like Cingjing Farm, where you can experience life on a working farm.
For eco-lodging, try The Lalu in Sun Moon Lake for a luxurious yet environmentally conscious stay. Other excellent eco-lodges include The Gaia Hotel in Jiaoxi and The Hotel Royal Chiaohsi for a blend of comfort and sustainability. These accommodations offer an authentic experience and are often run by knowledgeable hosts who can provide personalized insights into the region’s traditions and daily life.
Choosing these local options enriches your journey and ensures you gain a genuine understanding of Taiwan’s countryside while contributing to sustainable tourism.
Food & Local Specialties
The Taiwan countryside is famous for its fresh and local produce. Make sure to try farm-to-table meals that highlight the best of the region’s ingredients. Enjoy handmade tofu, freshly brewed tea, and local treats like taro cakes and traditional rice dishes. These foods are not only delicious but also reflect the area’s rich agricultural heritage. By eating locally and meeting the people who grow and prepare your food, you get an authentic taste of Taiwan’s countryside and learn about its time-honored traditions.
| Sl. No. | Recommendation | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Taro Cakes from Dongshih | Freshly made taro cakes, a local favorite for traditional sweets. | Dongshih Township, Taichung |
| 2 | Handmade Tofu from Beipu | Traditional tofu with a rich flavor and smooth texture. | Beipu Township, Hsinchu County |
| 3 | Fresh Tea from Alishan | High-quality tea from renowned Alishan plantations. | Alishan Township, Chiayi County |
| 4 | Local Rice Dishes at Miaoli | Authentic rice dishes with traditional flavors. | Miaoli City, Miaoli County |
| 5 | Sweet Potatoes from Hsinchu | Sweet, locally grown potatoes with a rich, natural sweetness. | Hsinchu City |
A Journey Through Taiwan Countryside
Exploring Taiwan’s countryside offers a perfect mix of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and genuine local experiences. From walking through ancient mountain trails to visiting indigenous villages and enjoying fresh, farm-to-table meals, each destination presents a unique side of Taiwan. The information shared in this guide is based on detailed research and local knowledge, ensuring that it reflects real experiences.
Whether you’re discovering historical towns like Jiufen or engaging with the Hakka traditions in Miaoli, this guide offers reliable insights to help you explore the countryside. Taiwan’s rural areas provide the perfect opportunity to slow down, connect with nature, and appreciate the deep cultural heritage of this beautiful island.
Taiwan countryside FAQs
What are some must-visit national parks in the Taiwan countryside?
Top national parks in the Taiwan countryside include Yangmingshan National Park, Alishan National Scenic Area, and Kenting National Park. Yangmingshan features volcanic landscapes, Alishan is known for sunrise views and tea plantations, and Kenting offers beautiful beaches and coastal scenery.
What are the top waterfalls to visit in Taiwan?
Notable waterfalls in Taiwan are Shifen Waterfall, Wulai Waterfall, and Baiyang Waterfall. Shifen Waterfall is famous for its size and beauty, Wulai Waterfall is known for its scenic setting and local culture, and Baiyang Waterfall offers a picturesque hiking experience.
Why should I visit Green Island in Taiwan?
Green Island is popular for its stunning landscapes, hot springs, and excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. Located off the east coast of Taiwan, it offers clear waters and unique geological features, making it perfect for relaxation and exploration.
What makes Dulan a unique place to visit in Taiwan?
Dulan is unique for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, and relaxed vibe. In Taitung County, it’s a hotspot for surfers and artists, featuring local art galleries and stunning coastal views.
What are some popular activities in Alishan National Scenic Area?
Alishan National Scenic Area offers hiking, riding the Alishan Forest Railway, and watching sunrise over the sea of clouds. Visitors also enjoy exploring tea plantations and viewing cherry blossoms.
What is special about the rock formations in Yehliu Geopark?
Yehliu Geopark is known for its unique rock formations, like the Queen’s Head and Fairy’s Shoe, shaped by wind and sea erosion. Located on Taiwan’s northern coast, it’s a fascinating natural attraction.
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