Taiwan Uncovered

Taiwan is a dynamic destination filled with vibrant cities, dramatic mountains, pristine beaches, and an unforgettable food scene. With direct flights from Sydney Airport to Taoyuan International Airport, Taipei’s main international gateway, Taiwan could be the off the radar escape you have been looking for. It is a place where traditional Chinese culture blends with a modern twist, and for those seeking a truly special experience, the warmth and welcoming nature of Taiwanese people is remarkable.

History and modernity side by side

No visit to Taipei is complete without seeing Taipei 101, the city’s most iconic landmark. Once the world’s tallest building, Taipei 101 is an engineering marvel that combines modern innovation with design elements inspired by bamboo stalks and traditional pagodas. Visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views of the city surrounds and mountains from the observation deck, and see the impressive mass damper inside the tower, which stabilises the structure during earthquakes and strong winds.

About an hour from Taipei is Jiufen Old Street, a historic network of narrow, lantern lit alleyways set in the hills of New Taipei City. The area is famous for traditional teahouses, including the well-known A Mei Teahouse, as well as abundant street food like taro balls, souvenir shops, and beautiful mountain and sea views. Jiufen is popular for its nostalgic charm and resemblance to the atmosphere seen in Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.

If you are visiting Taiwan between February and March, consider timing your trip for the Sky Lantern Festival in Pingxi. This festival is a beloved tradition in which people write wishes on rice paper lanterns before releasing them into the night sky. Watching hundreds of lanterns float upward together is a striking and memorable sight.

Another historic spot is Lukang Old Street, a former seaport known for its Qing Dynasty architecture, numerous temples including Lukang Tianhou Temple, and local snacks such as vermicelli soup and crystal dumplings.

Nature at its best

The Alishan Forest Railway is a highlight for visitors interested in nature, history, and scenic landscapes. Famous for its historic train ride, the area offers breathtaking sunrises and a sea of clouds that stretch across the mountain range. The trails around Alishan include steep paths through bamboo forests and panoramic viewpoints over rows of tea plantations.

On the east coast, the Qingshui Cliffs provide one of Taiwan’s most dramatic natural scenes. These 800 metre high cliffs rise directly from the Pacific Ocean along a 21 kilometre stretch in Taroko National Park. Formed by tectonic uplift and made of marble, gneiss, and schist, the cliffs display vibrant blue ocean colours and impressive geological features. Stop by scenic viewpoints like the Chongde Rest Area for spectacular photo opportunities, or hit the nearby hiking trails, ranging from the gentle riverside walks of Shakadang and Lushui, to more challenging routes like Zhuilu Old Road. Suspension bridges, waterfalls, and swimming holes in Hualien add even more variety for outdoor enthusiasts.

Taiwan’s smaller islands are also worth exploring that many visitors find to be a relaxing alternative to the larger islands off the east coast. Xiaoliuqiu, for example, offers excellent conditions for scuba diving and snorkelling, with the island famous for its sea turtles.

Cycling in Taiwan

Taiwan is known as a cycling kingdom, with options for all levels. Scenic cycling routes include the east coast between Hualien and Taitung, with dramatic coastline and rice fields providing a constantly changing backdrop. Sun Moon Lake another of the most beautiful places to cycle, often considered a highlight for visitors. And for something different, travellers can try electric bikes along the Old Mountain Railway in Miaoli.

Relaxation and wellness

Taiwan is rich in geothermal activity and has an impressive range of hot springs for travellers to unwind in. In the north, popular areas include Beitou, Yangmingshan, Wulai, and Jiaoxi, while central Taiwan offers springs in Guguan, Tai'an, and Guanziling. Each region features different mineral properties. Green sulfur springs in Beitou are milky and acidic, red sulfur springs in Guanziling are known for clay rich water, and carbonate or iron springs are gentler on the skin. Taiwan is also home to cold springs, such as the natural carbonated waters found in Suao.

Tips for travellers

• Mandarin is the main language spoken in Taiwan, but English is common enough in major cities and transport hubs to help travellers get around comfortably.
• Efficient high-speed rail and public transit systems make travelling around the island efficient and straightforward.
• Taiwan is known for being very safe, with well-maintained facilities and friendly locals.

Book your trip

To experience Taiwan’s rich culture, natural wonders, and warm hospitality, visit www.china-airlines.com/au/en and book your trip from Sydney Airport.