Here are 10 places to visit in Taiwan tourist must-see. These routes pass through forests, coastlines, fields, and towns, allowing you to explore the different scenery of Taiwan by bike.
Places to Visit in Taiwan: Top 10 popular must-go attractions
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 1: Sun Moon Lake
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- Location: Located in Nantou County, central Taiwan, the only landlocked county in Taiwan.
- Popular Attraction: A popular tourist destination places to visit in Taiwan, attracting many local and international visitors.
- Must-Do Activity:
- Cycling around the lake.
- Once named one of the “Top 10 Most Beautiful Bike Paths in the World” by CNN.
- Cycling Experience:
- Cycle around the lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake and surrounding mountains from different angles.
- Travel between the lake and mountains, experiencing the peace and beauty of nature.
- An unforgettable travel experience.
- Bike Path Features:
- Approximately 30 kilometers long.
- Less than 10% slope, relatively flat terrain.
- Suitable for cyclists of all levels.
- Circumnavigates the lake with a dedicated bike lane, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.
- Summary: A relaxing and enjoyable way to appreciate the beautiful scenery along the way and experience the beauty of Taiwan.
Address: Sun Moon Lake National Scenic
Area Address: No. 599, Zhongshan Rd, Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan 555
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 2: Wuling
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- Location: Situated in central Taiwan at an elevation of 3,275 meters, spanning Nantou and Hualien counties.
- Natural Beauty: Experience the grandeur of nature with breathtaking high-mountain scenery places to visit in Taiwan, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams.
- Mountaineering & Cycling Paradise:
- A favorite challenge among mountaineering enthusiasts.
- The highest point on Taiwan’s roads, attracting cyclists to test their high-altitude cycling limits.
- Seasonal Attractions:
- April to June: Witness the sky ablaze with vibrant rhododendrons.
- September to November: Chase the Milky Way and admire the colorful autumn foliage.
- December to March: Enjoy the snowy landscape and soak in the natural hot springs.
- Cycling Challenge:
- The highest point on Taiwan’s roads, a must-conquer goal for cyclists.
- Three renowned routes:
- Xincheng to Wuling (East Route)
- Puli to Wuling (West Route)
- Lishan to Wuling (South Route)
- Route features: Ascend over 2,500 meters with a 15% gradient.
- Challenge: Tests your leg strength, endurance, and overall cycling experience.
Recommended Routes
- Wuling Pass West: From the Geographic Center of Taiwan to Wuling, the whole distance is 56 kilometers
- Wuling Pass East: From Qixingtan to Wuling, the whole distance is 104 kilometers.One of the top 10 cycling routes that must be ridden in a lifetime by Global Cycling Network
- Wuling Pass North: From Yilan Baitao Bridge, pass Wuling Farm, Lishan, Dayuling to Wuling, the whole distance is 113.9 kilometers, we had a bird's eye view of the most beautiful Atayal tribe, a classic tribal culture.
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 3: Taroko
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- Location: Hualien, where tectonic plates collide, creating stunning geological landscapes.
- Natural Features: Situated between mountains and the sea, with the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Central Mountain Range to the west.
- Popular Attractions: Canyons, cliffs, clear blue skies, and streams, making Taroko Gorge a must-visit destination in Taiwan.
- Tourism: Attracts a large number of visitors and cycling enthusiasts.
- Cycling Routes:
- Starting Point: Hualien Train Station or Xincheng Train Station.
- Transportation: Bring your bike on the train or take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (folding bikes allowed).
- Route Lengths: Vary depending on the chosen route, ranging from 20 to 50 kilometers.
- Route Features: Beautiful scenery places to visit in Taiwan, with some sections flat and suitable for general cyclists and families, while others have gentle uphill slopes.
2024 Update
- Due to a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake that struck Taiwan on April 3, 2024, all hiking trails in Taroko Gorge were severely damaged.
- The National Park has closed these trails for repairs, with the reopening date yet to be determined.
- We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.
Address: Taroko National Park
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 4: Huadong Valley
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- Location: Eastern Taiwan, stretching from Hualien to Taitung.
- Environmental Features: Remote location with minimal pollution, preserving abundant natural resources.
- Tourist Attractions: Unique natural and cultural landscapes, rich indigenous culture, offering visitors in-depth experiences of Huadong’s scenery and cultural heritage.
- Seasonal Attractions:
- Spring: Fields of daisies.
- Late summer and early autumn: Golden needle flower fields.
- Winter: Canola flower fields.
- Summer: Taiwan International Balloon Festival at Luye Plateau.
- Winter: Famous hot springs like Ruisui, Red Leaf, and Antong, offering scenic hot spring experiences.
- Cycling Routes:
- Attractive to cycling enthusiasts due to its pristine beauty, natural scenery, and challenging terrain which places to visit in Taiwan.
- Route difficulty: Varies depending on the chosen route.
- Route length: Approximately 180 kilometers, a long-distance challenge requiring physical strength and endurance.
- Slope: Most sections have gentle slopes, but cycling experience is recommended due to the long distance.
Address: Hualien Station
No. 100, Guolian 1st Rd, Hualien City, Hualien County, Taiwan 970
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 5: Sandiao Cape Lighthouse ( Easternmost Point of Taiwan )
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- Location: Situated at the easternmost point of Taiwan, Sandiao Cape boasts unique and beautiful scenery. It was formerly known as “San Diego.”
- Scenic Features:
- A magnificent rocky coastline.
- Spectacular waves crashing against the cape.
- A breathtaking landscape where the blue sky meets the unique terrain.
- Famous Attraction:
- Sandiao Cape Lighthouse: Known as the “Eye of Taiwan,” it is the first place on the island to greet the sunrise.
- Lighthouse Features:
- Flashes white and red light twice every 28 seconds, resembling a girl winking at the ocean.
- Guides ships and illuminates the way home for fishermen.
- The pure white lighthouse building, football-shaped radar, Greek-style pavilion, and love-themed art installations attract couples and newlyweds for romantic dates and wedding photoshoots.
- Viewing Platform:
- Converted from a warehouse, it exudes a sweet and romantic ambiance with retro wooden doors and stained glass windows.
- Offers stunning views of waves crashing against rocks, the picturesque mountain and sea scenery, winding trails, the white lighthouse, and the radar station.
- Additional Features:
- A haven for sunrise enthusiasts and photographers.
- Summary: Sandiao Cape Lighthouse, the easternmost point of Taiwan, offers beautiful natural scenery and a romantic atmosphere, making it a worthwhile destination to visit.
Address: Sandiao Cape Lighthouse
No. 38, Magang Street, Fulong Village, Gongliao District, New Taipei City.
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 6: Kenting / Eluanbi Lighthouse ( Southernmost Point of Taiwan)
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- Location: Situated in Pingtung County.
- Famous For: Sunshine, beaches, and the sea.
- Beach Activities:
- Soft white sand beaches perfect for relaxation and water sports, making it one of Taiwan’s most popular vacation places to visit in Taiwan.
- Geological Attractions:Unique geological features like the cliffs, caves, limestone caves, and red clay terrain of Longpan Park.
- Kenting National Park: Located at the southern tip of the Hengchun Peninsula.
- Points of Interest:
- Eluanbi Lighthouse and the Southernmost Point of Taiwan, serving as milestones for cycling challenges.
- Reaching the Southernmost Point:
Start from the “Southernmost Point Parking Lot” next to Eluanbi Lighthouse. - Follow the signs to a shaded path, walk for about 10 minutes to reach the marker.
- Cycling Routes:
- Around Kenting Route: Easy for beginners, but be mindful of the strong sea breeze.
- Around Kenting + Shouka Challenge: Tackle the “Heavenly Road,” a continuous 21-kilometer uphill climb, offering a rewarding challenge with a great sense of accomplishment.
Address: Kenting National Park
596, Kenting Rd., Hengchun Township, Pingtung County 946008, Taiwan
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 7: Qigu / Guosheng Lighthouse (Westernmost Point of Taiwan)
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- Location: Southwest coast of Tainan.
- Natural Features: Coastal area with lagoons, sandbanks, lush mangrove forests, and a natural ecological wetland.
- Wildlife:
- A haven for diverse marine life due to its natural wetland.
- A crucial stopover for migratory birds, especially during autumn and winter, with fish ponds providing ample food sources.
- Home to the Black-faced Spoonbill, a protected and endangered migratory bird.
- Activities:
- Cycling through the scenic landscapes.
- Observing the Black-faced Spoonbill, a protected migratory bird.
- Nearby Attractions:
- Tainan City: Explore historical sites, immerse yourself in rich culture, and indulge in diverse cuisine.
- Guosheng Lighthouse: Check in at Taiwan’s westernmost point, while enjoying Qigu’s stunning sunsets, salt fields, and wetlands.
Address: Guosheng Lighthouse ( Westernmost Point of Taiwan )
No.52, Yancheng, Cigu Dist., Tainan City 724, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 8: Fugui Cape ( Northernmost Point of Taiwan )
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Fugui Cape, located in the Sanzhi District of New Taipei City, is the northernmost point of Taiwan’s main island. It has a long coastline with wide views of the sea and sky.
You can start at Baishawan beach, ride a bike along the coast, and end up at the Fugui Cape Lighthouse. There, you can enjoy the beautiful sea views and the northernmost point.
A cycling trip to Fugui Cape is often arranged alongside a tour of the North Coast. This route would usually take you through Qianshuiwan, Baishawan beach, Shimen district, Jinshan district, and Wanli district.
In just one day, you can effortlessly experience the scenic sea views, the Shimen Cave, and the beautiful bays, all while enjoying the fascinating places to visit in Taiwan of the North Coast.
Laomei Lookout
Address: No. 27, Fenglin Rd, Shimen District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 253
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 9: Alishan
Alishan is located in Chiayi County and is famous places to visit in Taiwan for its sunrise, sea of clouds, rich ecology, and historic railway.
It’s a great place for family outings and sightseeing, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Taiwan.
When visiting Alishan, you must take the Alishan Forest Railway and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
Many tourists come here to watch the sunrise over Alishan, watching the sun slowly rise from the sea of clouds.
If cyclists start from the Chu-Kou and ride to the Alishan Forest Recreation Area, it’s a continuous uphill challenge.
The total distance is about 53.6 kilometers with an average slope of 3-4%. Although the overall slope is not steep, the total climb of about 2200 meters will consume a lot of energy.
The Alishan Highway has beautiful scenery along the way, with many famous spots, such as the Alishan Forest Recreation Area and the Sacred Tree Group.
Don’t forget to stop by Fenqihu for a bento box meal. The sense of achievement after the physical and stamina test of completing the challenge of Alishan is unforgettable.
Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
Address: 605, Taiwan, Chiayi County, Alishan Township, No.59
Places To Visit In Taiwan Top 10: Haowangjiao / Baishatun
Haowangjiao in Houlong is located in Miaoli County. The Cape and its surroundings have captivating mountain and sea views, as well as many recreational resources.
You can overlook the Taiwan Strait, the Houlong Plain, and the coastline with many wind turbines. In the evening, the sunset is enchanting, earning the name “Sunrise over Alishan, Sunset over the Haowangjiao”.
Heading south into Baishatun, it’s the famous starting point for the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage in Taiwan. Every year, many believers are attracted to participate in activities here. In Baishatun, you can appreciate rich culture and religious activities.
The bike ride on this route will experience different scenes, from the beauty of the coast to wind turbines, and then to historical and cultural experiences. This route is suitable for people who want to experience the local culture of Taiwan, enjoy beautiful scenery, and enjoy the fun of cycling places to visit in Taiwan.
Houlong Haowangjiao
Address: 356, Taiwan, Miaoli County, Houlong Township
Baishatun Gongtian Temple
Address: 357, Taiwan, Miaoli County, Tongxiao Township, No.8
Taiwan has much more to offer than just these places, and everyone has their own preferences when it comes to types of scenery.
Whether you enjoy the refreshing mountain views, energetic seascapes and beaches, or prefer a cultural tour of historical sites, MathewBike, a local Taiwanese and professional bike route planner, can tailor your bike tour in Taiwan to suit your style.
MathewBike provides a comprehensive range of bicycle and equipment rental services. Whether you favor touring bikes, road bikes, tandem bikes, or e-bikes, we can find the perfect fit for you.
Moreover, MathewBike also offers luggage storage services, so you won’t need to carry around heavy baggage. All you need to do is bring a light and joyful mood, and you can embark on your bicycle journey across Taiwan.
