Sightseeing in Taiwan
Including Chikan Tower (Fort Provintia), Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, and Jiufen Old Street. On the map.
The vibe
Wandering here moves effortlessly from smoke-filled incense temples tucked down quiet alleyways to vast coastal gorges carved by ancient rivers. Autumn brings crisp air and golden light that makes the island's steep green peaks pop without the sticky summer humidity. You will share the most famous historical courtyards with tour buses, but stepping just one block away reveals an entirely local rhythm where you can wander completely undisturbed.
Chikan Tower (Fort Provintia), Tainan
Tainan
ktanaka / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, this historic site is the heart of Tainan, Taiwan's oldest city. It showcases a unique blend of colonial architecture and later Chinese-style renovations, serving as a testament to the island's complex history.
Access. Located in the central district of Tainan, easily reached by local bus or taxi.
Notes. Best visited in the late afternoon for pleasant lighting and cooler temperatures.
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung
毛貓大少爺 from Taipei, Taiwan / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
This massive Buddhist monastic complex is dominated by a colossal seated Buddha statue surrounded by eight pagodas. It is a modern architectural marvel that serves as a center for international Buddhist culture and education.
Access. Accessible by bus from Zuoying HSR Station in Kaohsiung.
Notes. Dress modestly as it is a sacred site; the complex is very large and requires significant walking.
Jiufen Old Street, New Taipei
New Taipei
Another Believer / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Perched on a mountainside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this former gold mining town is famous for its narrow, lantern-lit alleys and traditional teahouses. The atmospheric streets offer a nostalgic glimpse into Taiwan's past, complemented by stunning coastal vistas.
Access. Accessible by bus or taxi from Taipei or Ruifang Train Station.
Notes. Extremely crowded on weekends; arrive early or late to avoid the peak tourist rush.
Sun Moon Lake, Nantou
Nantou County
lienyuan lee / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Nestled in the mountains, this serene alpine lake is famous for its emerald waters and surrounding temple-dotted hills. It is a quintessential Taiwanese destination, offering scenic cycling paths, boat tours, and the iconic Wenwu Temple.
Access. Accessible by bus from Taichung HSR Station.
Notes. The area is popular for cycling; consider renting a bike to explore the lakeside trails.
Taipei 101, Taipei
Taipei
Rodrigo Ghedin from Maringá, Brasil / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Once the world's tallest building, this iconic skyscraper dominates the Taipei skyline with its unique bamboo-inspired architecture. Visitors head to the observatory for panoramic views of the city basin and to see the massive tuned mass damper that stabilizes the tower.
Access. Easily accessible via the Taipei Metro Red Line to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station.
Notes. Tickets are required for the observatory; expect long queues during weekends and holidays.
Taroko Gorge, Hualien
Hualien County
lumoplank / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
Carved by the Liwu River, this spectacular marble canyon is Taiwan's most famous natural wonder. Visitors can explore dramatic cliffs, suspension bridges, and hidden shrines, making it a premier destination for those seeking awe-inspiring landscapes.
Access. Accessible via train to Hualien City, followed by shuttle bus or private car into the national park.
Notes. Check for trail closures due to weather or seismic activity before visiting; helmets are provided at certain trailheads.