Taiwan’s 10 Must-Visit Stunning Destinations Guide
Posted on 08 February 2026
Taiwan boasts a diverse and vibrant tapestry of natural and cultural landscapes. From shimmering lakes and misty mountains to ancient forests and majestic coastlines, every corner is a treasure waiting to be felt. This guide highlights ten must-visit destinations for a lifetime: Taipingshan, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Shengxing Station, Taroko Gorge, Mr. Brown Avenue in Taitung, Qingshui Cliff, Smangus, Yuguang Island, and Cingjing Farm. We invite you to embark on a journey of deep exploration.
【Taipingshan: A Healing Sanctuary of Sea of Clouds, Forests, and Hot Springs】
Renowned for its ancient forests, breathtaking seas of clouds, and historic forest railways, Taipingshan is a premier mountain retreat that perfectly blends nature with wellness. Visitors can stroll along the Jianqing Nostalgia Trail to soak in the views, take a nostalgic ride on the Bong Bong Train to experience the region's logging history, or unwind at the Jiouzhize Hot Spring. It is truly a restorative getaway for those seeking to reconnect with nature.
【Information overview of Taipingshan】
Time： 08:00 – 17:00 (Zhongjian Visitor Center)
Tel： 0910-935132
Add： No. 58-1, Taiping Ln., Datong Township, Yilan County, Taiwan Transportation： Take the train to Luodong Station, then transfer to the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Bus Green 12 or Green 13) directly to Taipingshan.
【Sun Moon Lake: A Romantic Icon of Mountain and Lake Scenery】
As Taiwan’s most famous freshwater lake, Sun Moon Lake captivates visitors with its crystal-clear, tranquil waters and the majestic mountains that embrace it. The scenery at dawn and dusk is truly poetic, appearing like a living ink painting. Whether you are cruising across the lake by boat or strolling along the lakeside trails to soak in the healing atmosphere, it remains the premier destination for romantic getaways and family vacations.
【Information overview of Sun Moon Lake】
Time： All day (Visitor centers usually 09:00 – 17:00)
Tel： 04-9285-5668
Add： Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan
Transportation： From THSR Taichung Station, transfer to the Nantou Bus (Sun Moon Lake Route) directly to the lake.
【Alishan: A Journey of Sunrise, Sea of Clouds, and Ancient Giants】
World-renowned for its breathtaking Zhushan sunrise, rolling seas of clouds, and thousand-year-old giant trees, Alishanstands as Taiwan’s most iconic high-mountain destination. A ride on the historic Alishan Forest Railway offers a front-row seat to the misty, ethereal mountain landscapes. In springtime, the peaks are adorned with delicate cherry blossoms, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty.
【Information overview of Alishan】
Time： Open Daily (Visitor Center: 08:30 – 17:00)
Tel： 05-259-3900
Add： No. 51, Checheng, Chukou Village, Fanlu Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan
Transportation： Take the THSR to Chiayi Station, then transfer to the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Route 7329 - Alishan Route A) directly to Alishan.
【Shengxing Station: Century-Old Charm of the Old Mountain Line】
Standing as the highest point of the Western Trunk Line, Shengxing Station is a historic wooden structure that exudes a nostalgic, retro atmosphere, making it a favorite among railway enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the tracks or experience the unique Rail Bike to immerse themselves in a century of railway culture. The nearby Old Street is also a must-visit, offering a variety of authentic local snacks to savor.
【Information overview of Shengxing Station】
Time： 08:30 – 17:30 (Rail Bike operating hours)
Tel： 03-787-8599
Add： No. 83, Sanyi Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan
Transportation： Take the train to Sanyi Station, then transfer to a taxi.
【Taroko: Majestic Marble Gorges and the Baiyang Trail】
Home to spectacular marble canyons, towering cliffs, and intricate tunnels, Taroko is the quintessential representative of Taiwan's national parks. Here, you can immerse yourself in the soothing sound of rushing streams, witness extraordinary geological wonders, and feel the awe-inspiring power of the great outdoors.
【Information overview of Taroko】
Time： 08:30 – 17:00 (Visitor Center)
Tel： 03-862-1100
Add： No. 291, Fushi, Fushi Village, Xiulin Township, Hualien County, Taiwan Transportation： From Hualien Train Station, transfer to the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Taroko Route 302).
【Mr. Brown Avenue: A Soothing Path Through Waves of Golden Rice】
Mr. Brown Avenue (Chishang) rose to fame overnight following a popular Takeshi Kaneshiro commercial. This perfectly straight path cuts through vast, emerald-to-golden rice fields, offering diverse seasonal beauty year-round. Cycling through the rural landscape while gazing at the distant mountain ranges and clear blue sky makes it the ultimate destination for "slow travel."
【Information overview of Mr. Brown Avenue】
Time： Open Daily
Tel：0800-000-115
Add： Chishang Township, Taitung County, Taiwan
Transportation： Take the train to Chishang Station. You can rent a bicycle from various shops near the station.
【Qingshui Cliff: Majestic Precipices Along the Pacific Coast】
Qingshui Cliff is Hualien’s most awe-inspiring coastal landmark, featuring massive stone walls that plunge vertically into the Pacific Ocean from heights of over a thousand feet. Standing on the observation deck, where the sea and sky merge into a single horizon, the sight of the crashing waves is truly breathtaking. It is a classic, must-see wonder of Eastern Taiwan.
【Information overview of Qingshui Cliff】
Time： Open Daily (Daylight hours recommended)
Tel： 03-822-7171 (Hualien County Tourism Department)
Add： Xiulin Township, Hualien County, Taiwan
Transportation： Self-driving along the Suhua Highway is recommended.
【Smangus: A Forest Sanctuary of the Giant Tree Tribe】
【Smangus: A Forest Sanctuary of the Giant Tree Tribe】
Affectionately known as the "Black Tribe" due to its historic isolation, Smangus preserves a pristine wilderness home to thousand-year-old ancient Red Cypress trees. As you hike deep into the heart of the forest, you will experience a profound sense of peace and seclusion from the modern world. It is an unparalleled choice for mountain enthusiasts and those seeking a truly immersive "deep travel" experience.
【Information overview of Smangus】
Time： Open Daily (Note: Entry is subject to traffic control during peak seasons)
Tel： 03-584-7688
Add： Smangus Village, Jianshi Township, Hsinchu County, Taiwan
Transportation： The drive from Neiwan to Smangus is approximately 60 km; a self-drive journey takes about 2.5 hours.
【Yuguang Island: Tainan’s Most Romantic Sunset Beach】
A tranquil hidden gem tucked away in the Anping District, Yuguang Island features soft, fine sands that stretch gracefully into the sea. At dusk, as the sunset paints the horizon in vibrant hues of gold and crimson, it becomes an idyllic sanctuary for romantic dates or a meditative stroll to clear one's mind. In the distance, you can even catch the faint, enchanting glimmer of fishing boat lights across the water.
【Information overview of Yuguang Island】
Time： Open Daily
Tel： 06-635-3226 (Tainan City Government Tourism Bureau)
Add： Yuguang Rd., Anping Dist., Tainan City, Taiwan
Transportation： Take the train to Tainan Station, then transfer to a taxi.
【Cingjing Farm: Green Grasslands and Dreamy Mountain Vistas】
Featuring the vast Green Green Grasslands and roaming flocks of sheep, Cingjing Farm is a high-mountain ranch dearly beloved by families. The landscape is lush and vibrant in spring and summer, while the autumn and winter months offer majestic seas of clouds. It is also a premier destination for stargazing and witnessing the brilliance of the Milky Way.
【Information overview of Cingjing Farm】
Time： 08:00 – 17:00
Tel： 049-280-2748
Add： No. 186-1, Renhe Rd., Ren’ai Township, Nantou County, Taiwan
Transportation： Self-driving is recommended.
The beauty of Taiwan exists far beyond the glossy surface of postcards; every destination is a treasure waiting to be explored in person. From the ethereal seas of clouds in the high mountains to the deep azure of the coastlines, these ten stunning locations are sure to leave you with the most profound travel memories. If you wish to extend your journey further into Yilan, Hualien, or Taitung, feel free to explore our related articles to plan your own perfect getaway.
Taiwan’s Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations: FAQ
Q1：Which high-mountain forests and trails in Taiwan are recommended?
A1： For travelers seeking "forest therapy" and a deep connection with nature, Taipingshan’s Jianqing Nostalgia Trail is an excellent choice. You can also head to Alishan to witness the magnificent sea of clouds and ancient giant trees. Additionally, Smangus (known as the "Black Tribe") offers a hidden sanctuary of pristine Red Cypress trees, while Cingjing Farm provides breathtaking vistas of the expansive Green Green Grasslands.
A1： For travelers seeking "forest therapy" and a deep connection with nature, Taipingshan’s Jianqing Nostalgia Trail is an excellent choice. You can also head to Alishan to witness the magnificent sea of clouds and ancient giant trees. Additionally, Smangus (known as the "Black Tribe") offers a hidden sanctuary of pristine Red Cypress trees, while Cingjing Farm provides breathtaking vistas of the expansive Green Green Grasslands.
Q2: Which destinations are a must-visit for experiencing vintage railway culture?
A2: Railway enthusiasts should not miss Shengxing Station in Miaoli. As the highest point of the Western Trunk Line, it beautifully preserves the charm of a century-old wooden station. Additionally, the Bong Bong Train in Taipingshan and the Alishan Forest Railway are classic choices for experiencing both forestry history and stunning mountain scenery.
A2: Railway enthusiasts should not miss Shengxing Station in Miaoli. As the highest point of the Western Trunk Line, it beautifully preserves the charm of a century-old wooden station. Additionally, the Bong Bong Train in Taipingshan and the Alishan Forest Railway are classic choices for experiencing both forestry history and stunning mountain scenery.
Q3: What are some awe-inspiring natural wonders in Eastern Taiwan?
A3: Hualien’s Taroko Gorge is world-famous for its spectacular marble canyons and the Baiyang Trail, while the Qingshui Cliff offers a breathtaking view of thousand-foot precipices plunging into the Pacific. If you prefer pastoral scenery, Mr. Brown Avenue in Chishang, Taitung, features a straight path cutting through endless waves of rice—perfect for a leisurely bike ride.
A3: Hualien’s Taroko Gorge is world-famous for its spectacular marble canyons and the Baiyang Trail, while the Qingshui Cliff offers a breathtaking view of thousand-foot precipices plunging into the Pacific. If you prefer pastoral scenery, Mr. Brown Avenue in Chishang, Taitung, features a straight path cutting through endless waves of rice—perfect for a leisurely bike ride.
Q4: What kind of travel experiences do Sun Moon Lake and Yuguang Island offer?
A4: Sun Moon Lake is ideal for couples and families; you can cruise the lake by boat or stroll along the lakeside trails to enjoy the serene scenery. Yuguang Island is Tainan’s famous romantic sunset beach, perfect for a twilight walk on the fine white sand to clear your mind while watching the distant glimmer of fishing boat lights.
Q5: What makes the Jianqing Nostalgia Trail and Jiouzhize Hot Spring in Taipingshan special?
A5: The Jianqing Nostalgia Trail offers views of the old forest railway tracks used for timber transport set against a backdrop of magnificent seas of clouds. After the hike, relaxing at Jiouzhize Hot Spring is highly recommended—it’s a perfect "healing" mountain itinerary in Yilan.
Q6: What are the highlights of Cingjing Farm and the suggested mode of transport?
A6: Cingjing Farm is renowned for its flocks of sheep on the Green Green Grasslands and its dreamy mountain vistas. It is also a popular spot for stargazing and the Milky Way. Due to its high-altitude location, self-driving is suggested for the greatest flexibility and convenience.
Q7: How should I prepare for transportation if I want to see the sunrise at Alishan?
A7: To reach Alishan, take the THSR to Chiayi Station, then transfer to the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Route 7329 - Alishan Route A). Once there, you can take the Zhushan Line of the Forest Railway to witness the famous sunrise, sea of clouds, and ancient giant trees.
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