Taiwan has a rich cultural heritage, breat
htaking natural scenery, and vibrant culinary scene. Of all its cities, none offer a treasure trove of experiences quite like its bustling capital city of Taipei. While the city itself has a ton of things to do, some of Taipei's highlights are just a day trip away, and are a perfect way to uncover the diverse landscapes and cultural gems that Taiwan has to offer. Here are three captivating day trips from Taipei, highlighting the best ways to get there, must-see attractions, and insider tips for an unforgettable journey.
Introduction to Jiufen:
Jiufen is a picturesque town in northern Taiwan renowned for its charming streets, traditional tea houses, and stunning panoramic views of the coastline. Once a prosperous gold mining town, Jiufen today exudes an old-world charm that has captivated visitors from around the globe and was even the inspiration behind the Studio Ghibli film "Spirited Away."
Getting There:
The most convenient way to reach Jiufen from Taipei is by taking a direct bus from Taipei Main Station or Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT Station. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that includes transportation to Jiufen and other nearby attractions.
Must-See Attractions:
1. Jiufen Old Street: Explore the narrow alleyways and bustling streets of Jiufen Old Street, lined with quaint tea houses, souvenir shops, and street vendors selling local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to sample Taiwanese specialties like taro balls, fish balls, and pineapple cakes, or my personal favorite, sticky rice and sausage.
2. Jiufen Teahouse Experience: Indulge in a traditional tea ceremony at one of Jiufen's historic teahouses, where you can savor fragrant teas while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
3. Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park: Learn about Jiufen's rich mining history at the Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park, where you can explore abandoned mines, visit the Gold Museum, and hike scenic trails through the lush mountainside.
Introduction to Pingxi:
After immersing yourself in the charm of Jiufen, continue your day trip by venturing to Pingxi, a quaint town renowned for its annual Sky Lantern Festival and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the rolling hills of northeastern Taiwan, Pingxi offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Getting There:
From Jiufen, take a bus or taxi to Ruifang Station, where you can catch a train to Pingxi. The train journey takes approximately 30 minutes and offers scenic views of the countryside along the way. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or join a guided tour that includes transportation to Pingxi and other nearby attractions.
Must-See Attractions:
1. Shifen Old Street: Explore the charming streets of Shifen Old Street, known for its traditional wooden storefronts, vibrant atmosphere, and iconic sky lanterns. Write your wishes on a colorful lantern and release it into the sky for good luck and prosperity.
2. Shifen Waterfall: Marvel at the majestic beauty of Shifen Waterfall, one of Taiwan's most scenic natural wonders. Surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waters, the waterfall offers a tranquil setting for relaxation and photography.
3. Pingxi Railway Line: Experience the nostalgia of Taiwan's historic railway system by taking a ride on the Pingxi Railway Line. Hop aboard a vintage train and journey through picturesque landscapes, passing through quaint villages, verdant forests, and towering mountains.
Taroko Gorge:
Located on the east coast of Taiwan, Taroko Gorge National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful wilderness area renowned for its towering marble cliffs, turquoise rivers, and lush forests. Spanning over 92,000 hectares, Taroko Gorge offers a myriad of hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and cultural landmarks waiting to be explored.
Getting There:
The most convenient way to reach Taroko Gorge from Taipei is by taking a direct train from Taipei Main Station to Hualien Station. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the type of train. From Hualien Station, you can catch a bus or hire a taxi to Taroko Gorge National Park, which is located approximately 20 kilometers north of Hualien City.
Must-See Attractions:
1. Eternal Spring Shrine: Visit the iconic Eternal Spring Shrine, a striking temple nestled against the backdrop of a cascading waterfall. Dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway, the shrine offers panoramic views of the surrounding gorge and mountains.
2. Swallow Grotto Trail: Embark on a scenic hike along the Swallow Grotto Trail, which follows a winding path carved into the marble cliffs above the Liwu River. Marvel at the dramatic rock formations, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters as you traverse this awe-inspiring landscape.
3. Baiyang Waterfall Trail: Discover the hidden beauty of Baiyang Waterfall Trail, a moderate-level hiking trail that leads to a spectacular waterfall hidden within a lush canyon. Traverse suspension bridges, dark tunnels, and moss-covered rocks as you make your way to the breathtaking waterfall at the trail's end.
Yangmingshan and Beitou Hot Springs
Escape the urban hustle and bustle of Taipei by venturing to Yangmingshan National Park, a verdant oasis of volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and alpine meadows. Located just a short drive from the city center, Yangmingshan offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Getting There:
From Taipei, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Yangmingshan National Park, which is located approximately 30 minutes north of the city center. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that includes transportation to Yangmingshan and other nearby attractions.
Must-See Attractions:
1. Qingtiangang Grassland: Explore the scenic beauty of Qingtiangang Grassland, a sprawling expanse of rolling hills and lush meadows set against the backdrop of volcanic peaks. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, go for a leisurely stroll, or have a picnic amidst nature's splendor.
2. Xiaoyoukeng Geothermal Area: Witness the raw power of nature at Xiaoyoukeng Geothermal Area, where you can see steam vents, sulfur deposits, and bubbling hot springs up close. Take a short hike along the wooden boardwalks and marvel at the otherworldly landscapes shaped by volcanic activity.
3. Beitou Hot Springs: Conclude your day trip with a relaxing soak in the rejuvenating waters of Beitou Hot Springs, a renowned thermal resort area located on the outskirts of Taipei. Indulge in a traditional hot spring bath at one of the many public baths, private spas, or luxury resorts dotted throughout the area.
These 3 day trips are a great way to get out of Taipei and have a different experience outside of capital city's hustle and bustle. Let me know if you go!
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