Travel Guide: Top 5 cities you have to visit in Taiwan

Lim Han Thursday, March 30, 2017 updated the Thursday, March 30, 2017

If you've never been to Taiwan, you're missing out one of the best destinations in the world.

1/5

Hualien

A treasure trove of scenic landscapes and culinary gems, Hualien holds a very soft spot in our hearts. A brief mention of its name to any Taiwanese and they will instantly bring up Taroko Gorge, a must-see nature site in Taiwan. It promises rushing sapphire waters and breathtaking landforms that will stop you in your tracks and render you speechless. Fill your stomachs at the gargantuan Dong Da Men night market, choosing from an array of local specialties and foreign cuisines. From freshly-made mochi to the controversial smelly tofu, you'll have to make every last bit of your stomach space count. With epicurean feasts and picturesque scenery awaiting, nothing should be holding you back.

2/5

Taichung

Rich with cultural landmarks, nature sites and shopping districts, Taichung is a city not to be missed out on. Visit the well-patronised Miyaharu, a grandiose pineapple tart store, whose past as an optical hospital is written across its wooden cabinets and traditional drawers. Let's not leave out Rainbow Military Dependent's Village, a landmark of vibrant paintings splattered across every inch of the conglomerated houses. Of course, a trip to Taichung endows a mandatory trip to the original Chun Shui Tang Teahouse, the supposed pioneer of bubble tea. Regardless of how true that is, you'll taste its supremacy in every pearl. With the plethora of attractions, your Taichung itinerary is bound to be bursting off the edges of your paper.

3/5

Taipei

As if this capital city needed any introduction. Home to the renowned Taipei 101, Taipei boasts of more than just a lofty skyscraper. This bustling city will satiate every traveller's wanderlust, offering everything from quaint museums to hectic night markets. Relive the olden days of Taiwan by taking a stroll down the iconic Jiu Fen Old Street, where you'll be inundated with rows of food stalls and souvenir shops. Deep fried sweet potato balls or grass jelly desserts, anyone? If you've had your fill of shopping, witness the enigmatic wonders of nature at Yang Ming Shan Park, a landscape of lush greenery and serene waters. Even though we've barely scratched the surface of Taipei, take it from us, this is the ultimate go-to city in Taiwan.

4/5

Tainan

Hipster pals, unite! Or maybe you all already have in an indie café nestled along the tranquil streets of Tainan in mind. The less popular sibling in the Taiwan family, Tainan is easily one of the most underrated cities. Lined with unassuming vintage cafes enclosing charming interior and incredible food, it's every hipster's haven. Not only that, it's brimming with history and heritage, housing majestic fortresses and picturesque temples. If you don't make a trip down to the old Anping District, were you even in Tainan? This district is a landscape of enchanting treehouses, magnificent forts and a happening food street. You'll be bewitched by the awe-inspiring scenery and infected by the radiant atmosphere. The best part? You won't have to jostle with claustrophobic crowds and fight for a spot for an impeccable photo.

5/5

Kaohsiung

For those of you who view this port city as a lifeless piece of land, or worse, haven't even heard of it, we're here to prove you wrong. Kaohsiung is packed with splendid architecture, exhilarating malls and a buzzing nightlife. Scream your lungs out on the enthralling rides at Taroko Park, an amusement park-cum-mega shopping mall. If you're not a fan of having your heart in your mouth, don't worry, there are less death-defying options. Soak in the scenery of majestic tiger and dragon pagodas in a backdrop of vast tranquil waters at the beauteous Lotus Lake. Or glide across the waters of the gorgeous Love River as the glowing city landscape runs past you. Of course, no Taiwan holiday would be complete without the night markets. Head on down to the bustling Ruifeng Night Market or Liu He Night Market for a time of endless eating and shopping. Now, who says there is nothing to do in Kaohsiung?

Teeming with gastronomic treasures, amiable locals, gorgeous architecture and majestic scenery, Taiwan's placement on the list of the top ten most visited destinations in Asia is hardly a mystery. The interminable stream of activities to do and places to see on this modernised island makes a trip absolutely mandatory for every traveller. Although it's as small as a mustard seed in relation to its gargantuan geographical neighbour, it houses a myriad of different cities, each possessing a distinctive culture and unique atmosphere. Set foot into any one of them and you'll be transported to a different world in terms of culinary domains and environment.

With the plethora of cities to choose from in this charming nation, you're bound to be torn. But, don't worry, we're here to piece you back together. We've picked out the top 5 cities in Taiwan that you have to visit. Whichever one you pick, you can bet you'll be getting your stinky tofu and oyster omelette fix regardless.

Lim Han

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Source: Travel Guide: Top 5 cities you have to visit in Taiwan