Heart of Taiwan

Welcome to Taiwan! Upon arrival at Taoyuan Airport, you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to Taipei City. Taiwan’s sprawling capital city is an exciting mix of South-East Asia, US and Japanese influences. The skyline is dominated by the impressive Taipei 101 Tower, once the tallest in the world, and made more impressive by its backdrop of rolling mountains in the North. The city is quirky and friendly and one of the safest capitals in Asia.

National Palace Museum

Your journey continues with a visit to the renowned National Palace Museum. This cultural treasure trove houses a vast collection of Chinese art and historical artifacts, making it a fascinating journey through centuries of history. Explore the museum’s extensive exhibitions, including ancient calligraphy, intricate paintings, delicate ceramics, and other priceless treasures. Witness the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and heritage, beautifully preserved and showcased in this iconic institution.

You will then be taken to your hotel to check in.

Raohe Night Market

You will continue to Raohe Night Market, one of the oldest traditional markets in Taipei and bustling with street food stalls, carnival games and quaint little shops. You might like to try some of the interesting local specialties as you walk around the eateries (paid locally). Afterwards, you will return to your hotel and have the evening at leisure.

Meals

None

Accommodation

AR Tree Hotel or similar

Services

Private transportation

Services of an English speaking guide

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before we set out for Jiufen Village. Jiufen, perched high in the misty mountains of Taiwan, is a village reminiscent of a bygone era complete with lantern-lit alleys, beautiful sea views, a bustling market and ancient teahouses. Wander through the old street, where Japanese-style architecture, unique teahouses, and art craft stores abound. If you’re a fan of Miyazaki, you’ve come to the right place—Jiufen inspired the enchanting world of “Spirited Away.” Be sure to try the local favourite, Taro Balls in sweet red bean soup, while soaking in views from teahouses and coffee shops that overlook the sleepy mountain town.Continue to the Gold Museum where gold flakes were found in 1890 during the construction of the Taipeh-Kelung railway. By 1893, gold-bearing quartz had turned this area into a gold rush hotspot. We’ll also make a photo stop at the mesmerizing Golden Waterfall and the haunting 13 Levels copper factory ruin perched on the hillside by the sea.Next, visit Shifen Old Street, nestled within the enchanting Pingxi District of Taiwan, lined with traditional wooden storefronts and vibrant lanterns. Continue to Yehliu Geo Park which sits on a strip of land that stretches into the Pacific Ocean.  Its beautiful rock formations have been formed by wind and sea abrasion. These include mushroom and honeycomb shaped rocks, and one particularly regal rock tower known as the Queen’s Head which looks like either Queen Nefertiti, or Queen Elizabeth in likeness, depending on which angle you are looking at it from. (B)Overnight – AR Tree Hotel or similar

After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Yilan. On the way, travel through the world’s 5th longest tunnel – Mt. Snow Tunnel. The tunnel took 15 years to complete, and links Pinlin, in greater Taipei with Mt. Snow.You will then head to Yilan County, the ‘rice barn’ of Taiwan (approx. 1 hour). In this beautiful landscape, the water is clean and there is abundant rain, making Yilan the perfect place to grow plants, tea, fruit, and rice. Enjoy a short walk to a waterfall and a quaint Chinese-style church.  Next, immerse yourself in the rich heritage at the National Centre for Traditional Arts. Here, traditional Taiwanese arts and toys come to life, and you can witness the vibrant daily parades. Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the Donshan River, offering a serene perspective.Continue to Kavalan Whisky Distillery and discover the meticulous process behind crafting their world-renowned whisky and indulge in a tasting session to appreciate its award-winning flavours. (B)Overnight – AR Tree Hotel or similar

After breakfast, check out of your hotel before embarking on a scenic drive to Beipu (approximately 1.5 hours). Once populated by Fujian Hakka and Cantonese migrants, Beipu boasts an eclectic mix of architectural styles that tell the tale of its diverse heritage. As you wander through the narrow lanes and winding alleys of the old streets, every corner holds a new surprise. Engage with the locals, hear their family stories, and delve into the history that shaped this charming town.Then, try your hand at making Lei Tea, a traditional Hakka beverage crafted by grinding sesame seeds, peanuts, and green tea into a fine powder, then mixing with hot water. Savour the fruits of your labour with a warm, freshly brewed cup. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your adventure to Taichung, the largest city in central Taiwan (approximately 1.5 hours).Next, head to Gaomei Wetland, a sprawling 1,500-acre area south of the Dajia River’s mouth. This unique terrain, a blend of sand and soil, supports a rich and diverse wetland ecosystem. It is home to Taiwan’s largest colony of Bolboschoenus planieulmis (species of flowering plant) and hosts an array of species, making it a prime spot for birdwatching, especially during the fall and winter months when migratory birds flock here. Afterwards, enjoy a cup of the renowned bubble tea at Chun Shui Tang Bubble Tea Ciwei Branch, the birthplace of this beloved beverage.This evening, visit Taiwan’s second-largest night market – Feng Jia Night Market. Here, tantalise your taste buds with an array of mouth-watering street snacks, explore unique and affordable fashion, and discover the latest mobile phone trends at unbeatable prices. (B)Overnight – Inksky Hotel or similar

This morning after breakfast, visit Wufeng Lin Family Mansion, a living encyclopedia of Taiwan’s traditional architecture. This grand residence, often called the first official residence in Taiwan, showcases the intricate scale and unique architectural features that define its historical significance, written in wood, bricks, and tiles.Next, embark on a journey to Alishan (Ali Mountain), the crown jewel of central Taiwan. This enchanting area is home to serene bamboo forests, majestic Japanese red cypress and cedar trees, lush tea plantations, and traditional Tsou villages. Enjoy a tea ceremony in the tea farm or amongst the bamboo forest (weather permitting) and visit a local tea farm. Alishan is dotted with tranquil walking trails that meander through alpine forests and sea of clouds. Take the Dingshizhuo trail, leading you to a prime tea plantation. At 1300 metres above sea level, this area is renowned for its Alishan high mountain tea, both in terms of quantity and quality. The sight of clouds rolling in from the ocean along the roadside adds a mystical touch to the journey. (B,D)Overnight – Indigo Hotel or similar

If the weather is favourable, you may consider waking up around 05:00 AM to catch the mesmerising sunrise at Mt. Ju, where dawn breaks over majestic peaks, casting a golden glow that dances upon misty valleys. Return to your hotel for breakfast.After breakfast, head to Alishan Forestry Recreation Area and take a scenic forest train ride, immersing yourself in the refreshing forest phytoncide. For your hiking adventure, you have two exciting options:Option 1: Take the forest train to Zhushan Sunrise Trail, renowned as the best spot to witness the sunrise in Alishan. The view platform offers a panoramic 360-degree vista of Ali Mountain.Please note: the train service may occasionally be unavailable due to technical reasons. If operational, you may opt to join at your own cost.Option 2: Embark on the Shuei-shan Giant Tree Trail, a favourite among first-time visitors. This trail leads to Sister Pond and Shouzhen Temple, with the highlight being the Xianglin Giant Tree, estimated to be over 2000 years old and often called the second sacred tree of Ali Mountain.Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before departing for Sun Moon Lake (approx 2.5 to 3 hours by road). On the way, catch a quick glimpse of Jade Mountain (3952m), Taiwan’s highest peak). Perched at 760 metres, Sun Moon Lake is famed for its crystal clear sparkling blue waters set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop. As Taiwan’s largest lake, it holds a special place as a traditional honeymoon destination for newlyweds and has been a hub of aboriginal life for millennia.Begin your cycle around Sun Moon Lake, one of the world’s top ten biking routes. Start westbound and receive love blessings at Longfeng Temple, a popular spot for young couples. Continue southwest to Xiangshan Visitor Centre, an architectural gem designed by Japanese futuristic architect Dan Morihiko. Ride back along the same bikeway, passing Shuishe Pier and Wenwu Temple, Taiwan’s largest temple complex dedicated to the God of Literature, War, and Confucius. (B,L)Overnight – Sun Moon Lake Hotel or similar

This morning, you will depart to Lukang, a quaint town steeped in history, just 1.5-2 hours away. Once a bustling hub for trade with mainland China, Lukang is a treasure trove of old streets, ancestral homes, and ancient temples, including the revered Lung-shan and Matsu Temples. Explore by tricycle, delving into its rich tapestry of culture and heritage.After, visit Tainan, a city located in southern Taiwan with a rich history and cultural heritage. As Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan boasts a wealth of historical sites, including temples, forts, and museums which you will visit today, as well as a variety of delicious local cuisine.The rest of the day is yours to wander and indulge at your leisure. (B,L)Overnight – The Place Hotel or similar

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out of Tainan. Head to Ten Drum Park for an energetic drum performance, where you will have the opportunity to try your hand at drumming.Next, journey to Kaohsiung to see the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. Situated in the tranquil Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung, this pair of remarkable structures epitomise both spiritual significance and artistic splendour. These pagodas are connected by a zigzag bridge and stand as vivid symbols of good fortune, with the dragon representing courage and the tiger symbolising protection. You can enter through the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s mouth, signifying the passage from darkness to light and the transformation of negative energies into positive ones. Inside, the pagodas are adorned with vibrant murals, intricate sculptures, and ornate altars.Then, explore the Buddhist Memorial Hall, where you’ll learn about Master Xinyun’s legacy and take part in a Heart Sutra writing session. Admire the towering Buddha Statue and the intricate Pagodas.Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. (B,L)Overnight – The Lees Hotel or similar

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and then head towards Wu Tai Village, perched 1,000 metres above sea level in the Central Mountains. Referred to as the “Home of the Clouds,” this Rukai Tribe village is a serene escape amidst the mist. There will be the opportunity of a photo stop at Gu-Chuan Bridge, to capture the lush valley and vibrant greenery. Spot Rukai Tribe symbols like the lily and hundred-step snake in the local décor. Next, explore Wu Tai Presbyterian Church, where Western and Rukai styles blend seamlessly in the stone plate house design. Stroll down Stone Plate Alley (Art Alley) and marvel at the stone sculptures, wooden carvings, and intricate artwork that showcase the indigenous culture.Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before traveling to Kaohsiung’s bullet train station. Board the sleek bullet train (economy class), gliding effortlessly through Taiwan’s scenic landscapes. Relax in comfort as you speed back to Taipei. (B,L)Overnight – AR Tree Hotel or similar

After breakfast, enjoy some of Taipei’s highlights, starting with the nostalgic Dihua Street market and the historic Dadaocheng area. Marvel at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and catch the changing of the guard ceremony. Snap photos at Taipei 101, the city’s iconic skyscraper (admission to the 89th-floor observatory may be weather-dependent), and visit the vibrant Bao-An Temple.Then, enjoy lunch at the famed Din Tai Fung or Hangzhou Xiaolongbao House for a taste of Taiwan’s culinary excellence and delicious soup dumplings.Later, drive to the airport, bidding a fond farewell to Taiwan as you embark on your journey home. (B,L)