taiwan solo travel tour

Guide to Solo Travel in Taiwan

Last Updated: 11/06/2023

Published: 10/01/2022

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Solo travel to Taiwan by figuring out your type of visa, budgeting your trip, and knowing what to expect when visiting the island nation. Read more to find additional details.

I’ve lived in Taiwan for more than 5 years and have solo traveled here many times before “expatriating.” I want to help you prepare for your trip with my experience and other information.

• Most countries can enter Taiwan on a 15-90-day visa exemption.
• It’s safe to travel to Taiwan alone.
• Taipei & New Taipei City are the best cities to visit as a solo traveler.
• You won’t need to know Mandarin to get around Taipei & New Taipei.

Taiwan Visa Types

Here are the various Taiwan visa types :

If you’re from the United States, U.K., or Australia, you can stay in Taiwan for 90 days without a visa. You won’t need any documents to enter Taiwan using the visa waiver program.

Just a passport that’s valid for 6 months from when you enter Taiwan.

I went more in-depth regarding Taiwan’s visa exemption program in the visa guide I linked earlier.

Later in October, Taiwan’s removing its quarantine hotel requirement. The country also doesn’t require you to have a COVID-19 vaccine to enter.

There’s still a face mask mandate . That means you must always wear a mask when going out. Except for some circumstances [ 1 ]. For instance, if you’re exercising.

They don’t specify the type of exercise.

Is It Safe To Travel to Taiwan Alone?

It is safe to travel alone in Taiwan.

No matter your sexual preference, gender, gender identity, or religion.

Just don’t get involved with gangs . They won’t mess with you unless you interfere with their business.

Avoid taking loans from people or dealing with prostitution.

Do not attack or steal from temple or night market stand owners. Taiwan’s gangs run many of these places. So I’ve heard .

You don’t have to worry about unorganized criminals mugging you while you wander the streets at night.

Just in case, I recommend bringing a decoy wallet and phone. If you’re unlucky, you can hand these to a mugger. I’ll cover what a decoy wallet should include in a bit.

Road safety . Outside Taipei City, you’ll have to walk on the streets more often. Because there aren’t as many sidewalks.

Or there are rows of motorbikes taking up all the sidewalk space.

Practice awareness when walking alongside the road and while crossing a street. Even when it’s your turn to cross.

I’ve had plenty of assholes who ran red lights and almost hit me.

Let’s talk about food safety .

Taiwan hasn’t had many serious food poisoning cases in the previous years [ 2 ]. The only instances you’ll put yourself at risk are when barbecuing raw meat, eating hot pot, or going to sushi restaurants.

And ramen restaurants. Those are the only places I’ve gotten food poisoning in Taiwan.

Don’t ask me how ramen upset my tummy. Because I don’t know.

As for the other foods. Take probiotics, ensure you thoroughly cook your meat, and don’t eat anything that smells raunchy [ 3 ].

Other than stinky tofu (fermented tofu).

If you get food poisoning, buy Super Supau (舒跑), Pocari Sweat, or drinks like Pedialyte to replenish lost electrolytes. All these beverages will help save you from dehydration.

I haven’t seen Pedialyte in Taiwan. But you can find identical drinks at pharmacies. You can get the other 2 drinks from any convenience store or supermarket.

Best Places To Travel Alone in Taiwan

The 2 best cities in Taiwan to visit alone are Taipei and New Taipei cities .

Here’s why:

• More public transportation (e.g., Taipei Metro)
• A higher number of English speakers
• More things to do
• Taipei and New Taipei have over 350 hiking trails [ 4 , 5 ]
• Not too far from the airport
• Connected to all stations in mainland Taiwan

I don’t have any quantitative proof stating Taipei has the most English speakers. But from my experience, it has more English speakers than other cities throughout Taiwan.

Because you have more public transportation options like the metro, you won’t need to rent a motorbike or a car. No worrying about an international driver’s license.

Depending on the time of day, traffic in Taipei can suck . Plus, you have many reckless drivers.

Don’t get me wrong. There are reckless drivers everywhere in the world. But it’s noticeable in Taiwan.

What does mainland Taiwan mean?

Taiwan has a bunch of smaller islands (like Kinmen and Lanyu). So “mainland” refers to the largest land mass in Taiwan.

I’ve covered many attractions in Taipei in a separate guide. There are too many to list here.

It’ll take you around an hour and a half to get to Taipei Main Station when using the MRT Airport Line (Commuter). Around 2 hours if you enter Taipei by bus.

I’ll cover public transportation options in a bit.

19 Top Things To Do in Taiwan

33 Top Things To Do in Taipei

12 Top Things To Do in Taichung

Costs To Travel Alone in Taiwan

Here are the various budgets that you’ll want to consider when solo traveling to Taiwan:

1. Mid-range Solo Travel Costs to Taiwan

Here are costs for traveling to Taiwan without a budget [ 6 ]:

I overestimated many of these expenses.

For instance, transportation. The estimate came from taking the Taipei MRT from Xindian Station to Tamsui Station.

This would result in the highest one-way cost since they’re on opposite sides of the city.

Taiwan’s Chunghwa Telecom gives you the most flexibility regarding calling credit and unlimited data ( without a soft data cap ). You can order these cards online.

2. Budget Solo Travel Costs to Taiwan

Here’s what you’ll pay when budgeting in Taiwan:

I usually advocate for skipping SIM cards entirely, but you’ll want a means to contact emergency services. They don’t cost much, though.

Taiwan Mobile will give you 3 days worth of data and calling for NT$100 and costs NT$200 less than Chunghwa Telecom’s 3-day pass. If you want anything more than 3 days, go with Chunghwa.

3. High-end Solo Travel Costs to Taiwan

Here’s what you’ll pay in Taiwan if you want to go all-out:

Suppose you’re traveling to Taiwan with a lot of disposable income. You likely don’t have to worry about expenses. And you likely already have a travel agent setting up everything for you.

You could always pay me to create your itinerary and set up your trip instead.

Regarding SIM cards. I recommend the Google Fi eSIM card. It’s $65 a month per line for their Unlimited Plus plan.

You’ll get unlimited hotspot tethering data, data for other devices (like tablets), and 100 gigabytes (GB) of cloud storage.

The plan gives you free texting, but costs $0.20 per call .

Getting this plan requires you to activate it at least 7 days before leaving for your trip. It also prevents you from navigating airports to the SIM card pickup kiosks.

Since it’s an eSIM provider, you must get an unlocked phone compatible with eSIM cards.

Let’s move on to clothing to wear in Taiwan.

What Should I Wear in Taiwan

You should wear clothing that matches the current season and what you’re most comfortable with for various weather conditions. But always carry a lightweight raincoat or parka.

Because it rains a lot in Taiwan.

I made the first sentence vague because I don’t know what temperatures your body can tolerate.

You’ll also want to bring high-top boots if you’re hiking . Taiwan has many poisonous snakes. And I bet you won’t want to have one bite your ankle.

And you may want to consider a sun hat. Protect your face from the sun.

Most Taiwanese people will wear shorts, jeans, or skirts with a t-shirt. Many women will wear lightweight dresses. I think they’re sundresses.

Only avoid clothing that exposes your butt , breasts, or too much of your belly.

I recommend visiting my guide on the best time to visit Taiwan . I cover temperatures throughout the year.

SIM Cards & Portable Wi-Fi in Taiwan

You can get a prepaid SIM card or pay for an eSIM provider that offers global coverage .

Google Fi works as an excellent eSIM provider, makes traveling to multiple countries in 1 sitting easier, and prevents you from dealing with prepaid SIM cards.

When staying 3 or fewer days, I recommend Taiwan Mobile’s prepaid card . It’s only NT$100. You’ll want Chunghwa Telecom if you’re staying 4 or more days.

Each plan will give you “NT$X” worth of calling credits. That means you can call for “X” minutes before you’ll need to refill your balance.

The number of credits you’ll use per minute depends on the provider .

I compare each provider in my guide regarding getting prepaid SIM cards .

You could also get portable Wi-Fi. But that’s only necessary if you need to connect more than 1 device.

If you’re using multiple devices, you may want to consider using public Wi-Fi when possible. Many cities (like Taipei) offer public free Wi-Fi around the city.

You could try places like Starbucks and Louisa (Taiwan’s coffee conglomerate) when working remotely.

It’s hard to find seats, but the free Wi-Fi’s worth it. And don’t forget to use protection.

A virtual private network (VPN) will help protect you against curious hackers. And avoiding clicking on links, replying to suspicious emails, and practicing good cybersecurity hygiene.

I use and recommend Surfshark VPN . They haven’t ever been hacked (unlike some of their competitors), aren’t based in the U.S., and have decent features.

How To Get Around Taiwan

Here’s how to get around Taiwan:

If you’re terrified of riding on boats, you could take a plane from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport to Kinmen or Linjiang islands.

Riding the bus will save you the most money , but take the most time.

I take the metro (MRT) when possible. It’s affordable, and a means to avoid traffic.

I’m a bit traumatized from taking buses. In 1 day, I rode 2 separate buses. Each bus got into different accidents.

I’d love to defend bus drivers. But it’s hard, based on my experience.

The high-speed rail is the quickest way to get around Taipei. But it costs the most. It’s a somewhat relaxing experience and gives you a way to rest during your journey.

Do You Need To Know Mandarin Chinese?

You could travel to Taipei and have no issues with only knowing English . But traveling outside Taipei may have its difficulties.

Public transportation will always have marked English signs. And many hypermarkets and convenience stores make it so you don’t need to listen for any Mandarin.

You see the price on a screen and give the clerk that amount.

When searching for places to eat out , English support becomes hit-or-miss. Some restaurants will have English speakers and menus. Meanwhile, others will have people scratching their heads when you tell them something.

Download Google Translate and follow these settings:

Tap upper-right corner icon > Settings > Region > Chinese > select Chinese, Mandarin (Taiwan, Traditional)

Then follow these settings:

Upper right icon > Download Languages > tap the download icon beside ‘Chinese’

Though Chinese and Taiwanese people speak Mandarin, they have different dialects. And various ways to say things. Sometimes, you could translate something in China’s Mandarin, which a Taiwanese person won’t understand.

The setting helps with accuracy.

And the second option makes it so you can translate without an internet connection. It’s helpful if you find yourself in a building that cuts off your cellular signal.

Google Translate should help you with communication in many cases. Sometimes, Taiwanese people will search for someone else who can speak English to help.

But keep in mind that Taiwanese people don’t only speak Mandarin. There are also Taiwanese who speak Hakka and Taiwanese Hokkien. Then, the indigenous Taiwanese speak Formosan languages.

A lot of the time, they will also speak Mandarin. Most Taiwanese households speak more than one language.

Taiwan Solo Travel Packing List

Here’s what I recommend packing for Taiwan :

I have tested and frequently use all of these products except for the travel adapter and the backpack cover. I do have the travel adapter on my list of things to buy, though. I do thorough research on the products I recommend. As I always want to use the “best” of whatever I buy.

You can buy anything else you’d need while you’re here. Taiwan has hundreds of hypermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies, and supermarkets.

I recommend buying an umbrella, among other things. It rains a lot in Taiwan. And you don’t want to find yourself soaked.

You can get umbrellas under NT$150 ($5.00) at any convenience store .

Taiwan has the third-highest safety index in the world [ 7 ]. A higher safety index equals a safer country to stay in.

Never let your guard down, though . Bring an old phone with you. And create a decoy wallet (or mugger’s wallet).

It’s a sacrificial wallet meant to fool thieves into thinking they stole your real wallet.

Here’s what you’ll want to pack in a mugger’s wallet:

• A bit of cash: at least NT$300 ($10)
• Random membership cards
• Fake credit cards: stuff it with junk mail credit cards
• An old ID: or photocopy and laminate your driver’s license

It may seem like something only paranoid people would do. But it’s better to play it smart. Life’s full of PVP (player vs. player). And you could fall victim to crime and lose a lot if you’re not careful.

Things To Do in Taiwan as a Solo Traveler

Here’s a list of general things to do in Taiwan :

As for specific cities, here are some guides:

• Tourist attractions in Taipei
• Things to do in Taichung City

And night markets. Know what foods to try, nearby things to do, and how to get there:

What To Eat in Taiwan as a Solo Traveler

Taiwan has a mixture of foods from various cultures you should try. Some foods include:

It’s an incomplete list, but I’ve detailed what each of these foods contains in a separate guide .

Taiwan doesn’t have much vegan or vegetarian food. I recommend using the HappyCow app to find such restaurants.

Many Buddhists have restaurants that serve vegetarian food . Search for buildings with the Buddhist symbol (卐 or 卍). Many temples will also have this symbol.

The best way to explore Taiwanese food culture is to indulge in the country’s night market culture . It’s a great way to find affordable desserts, deep-fried foods, and drinks.

And you can play carnival-style games.

99% of the time, these markets only accept cash . And many vendors don’t speak English. You also may need to use Google Translate’s camera feature to translate menus.

If you visit a tourist trap night market (like Shilin Night Market), you’ll likely find more vendors who don’t only speak Mandarin.

Tips for Solo Traveling in Taiwan

Here are some recommendations when traveling in Taiwan :

• Save receipts : if you stay for a month or 2, you can take part in Taiwan’s receipt lottery
• Don’t litter cigarette butts : people will possibly record you, then report you to the police
• Get an EasyCard : it’s only NT$100 and makes using public transportation in Taiwan easier
• Don’t vape : vape pens are apparently illegal in Taiwan [ 8 ]
• Practice awareness when crossing roads : don’t become roadkill
• * Avoid confrontation when possible : someone could record you and sue you for making them ‘lose face’

Negatively affecting someone’s reputation because of slander is against the law in Taiwan [ 9 ]. People could abuse this law to try to make money.

If you find someone yelling or attacking you, record them with your phone or a GoPro. Use the recording as evidence in case for some reason they attempt to take you to court for slander.

Because I’ve seen RARE cases where people got attacked, pressed charges against the attacker, then got sued for slander.

I don’t know whether they made that story up. But it’s something to keep in mind.

If You Stay in Taiwan Long Enough

You may decide you want to stay in Taipei longer than 14 days. Whether you want to live or stay here for a couple of months, you’ll need to find a longer-term stay.

I wrote a guide on finding apartments . And if you’re studying in Taiwan, this guide will also help you find accommodation.

Staying in Taiwan for longer than 90 days will require you to get an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) and a specific visa. Refer to the visas I mentioned earlier.

You’ll need to consider many other aspects of living in Taiwan. Explore my other Taiwan expatriate guides to learn more.

Where To Stay in Taiwan as a Solo Traveler

If you’re on a budget in Taiwan, stay in an Airbnb . Working with the app makes it easy to book stays and deal with the landlords.

Because the landlords may not speak English.

You could also try hostels . Though Airbnb will have many hostel listings, you will also want to try to find your own. They’re a great way to meet other foreigners.

And for Taiwanese cultural immersion, try a site like Homestay. It helps you find families that host people for a fee. These families will help you with language exchange, learning about Taiwanese or indigenous culture, and helping you navigate your city.

Those who have more money to spend on accommodation.

Get a hotel. Taiwan has many nice hotels that range in price. If you’re splurging, go for a hot springs resort . Or, if you’re in Taipei City, stay at the Humble House.

The latter hotel I mentioned has stellar air quality in the rooms, plenty of facilities, and a fantastic view of Taipei 101.

When searching for a hot spring resort, check the city you’re visiting to see whether they have hot springs. For instance, you can only choose Beitou Hot Spring Resort in Taipei.

These hotels have hot springs inside of them and have given me some of the best sleep.

Travel Insurance for Traveling Solo in Taiwan

Since I’ve never used travel insurance, I can’t recommend any decent travel insurance for traveling to Taiwan at the moment.

My research has shown me to avoid SafetyWing in many circumstances [ 10 ]. However, it depends on your circumstance.

From what I’ve checked out, I recommend researching the following travel insurance providers:

• IMG International health insurance
• World Nomads

Once again, I don’t endorse these options. But I recommend researching them and seeing whether they’ll benefit you during your trip to Taiwan.

More Guides for Visitors

• TPASS Transportation Card Guide 07/10/2023
• Taiwan Packing List 03/01/2023
• Taiwan Hot Springs: An Overview 01/26/2023
• Taiwan Travel Costs 12/10/2022
• Taiwan Winter Packing List 10/28/2022
• How to Rent a Car in Taiwan 10/27/2022
• Is Taiwan Safe to Visit? 10/21/2022

Even More Guides

Taiwan Delicacies to Bring Home

What to Buy in Taiwan Supermarkets

Things to Buy in Taipei for Souvenirs

Sing Ren Garden Night Market – A Visitors Guide

TPASS Transportation Card Guide

Taiwan Packing List

Keelung Night Market – Visitors Guide

Tonghua Night Market – Visitors Guide

Theodore began first experienced the wonders of traveling when visiting Vietnam. Afterward, he went crazy and ventured to at least… More about Theo

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Solo travel , Taiwan

Solo travel in taiwan – a girl’s guide.

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After my solo travels in Taiwan, I have a lot to say on the matter. But the first thing I’d say to anyone on the fence is: DO IT!! In this guide, I’m going to share everything you need to know for a solo trip to Taiwan including where to go, how to get around, the perfect Taiwan itinerary , the best hostels, how to make friends and more!

TAIWAN ESSENTIALS Accommodation  – Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting around – car hire / bus / train ( 12Go ) Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Guide book: Lonely Planet Taiwan Staying connected: Taiwan e-SIM card / Asia e-SIM (inc Taiwan)

Read next: the best places in the world for women to travel solo

Is Taiwan good for solo travel?

Yes, Taiwan is a great place for solo travel given its positive safety rating, fantastic infrastructure and countless wonderful attractions.

I felt totally safe as a woman travelling alone in Taiwan. TOTALLY. However, I would say that Taiwan’s suitability for solo travel depends on what type of solo trip you want. I did get a bit lonely at times. Unlike countries in Southeast Asia like Vietnam and Thailand where hostels are packed with solo travellers keen to explore together, the hostels in Taiwan are a little quieter and frequented more by locals. Overall, I didn’t meet THAT many other travellers in Taiwan but I expect that will change as it grows in popularity. So, if you’re looking for a party trip akin to travelling solo in Thailand , perhaps Taiwan is not the adventure for you. But as long as you’re happy doing things alone, you’ll easily keep busy. There are so many amazing places on this incredible island!

Read next: the best places to travel solo in Asia

Is Taiwan safe for solo travel?

Taiwan is ranked the 32nd safest country in the world by Population Review and even higher – 3rd in the world – by Numeo ! Although it’s hard to say which is correct, I wouldn’t dwell too much: Taiwan is incredibly safe! If the statistics aren’t enough to convince you, I can say with first-hand experience that I felt incredibly safe as a woman in Taiwan. There’s next-to-no crime and the locals are so friendly and helpful. I remember on my first day, someone coming up to ask (in English) if I was lost and needed help. So kind! Taiwan is safe for solo female travellers at all times of day and night. I never felt unsafe walking alone in the evenings.

Read next: my guide to solo female travel safety

Attitudes to women in Taiwan

This is worth mentioning! ‘Safe’ is an arbitrary term because, safe for who? Women, People of Colour, LGBT+ travellers? Well, in Taiwan, safety extends across demographics. Taiwan has a woman president and progressive attitudes to women’s rights. It’s not a conservative country and I felt comfortable wearing what I would at home. Although a lack of crime is always a positive thing, it’s even better travelling knowing that the country has genuinely great attitudes to women!

Also, Taiwan was the first Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019 making the country safe for LGBT+ locals and travellers.

Is Taiwan ok for first time solo travellers?

Safety-wise – yes absolutely! Logistic-wise – yes, it’s straightforward to get around with great infrastructure. Things are clean and ordered so it’s not too overwhelming. The only hurdle may be Mandarin… if you’re nervous about communicating, there are easier countries to travel solo in Europe and Asia. Social-wise: maybe not! If you’ve never travelled alone before, I’d recommend going somewhere with more of a backpacker scene so you have support and company if you need it. I’d suggest solo travel in Thailand or Vietnam .

Good things about solo travel in Taiwan

• Taiwan is safe for women travelling alone – the chances you’ll be victim to a crime are nearly nonexistent so you can relax and enjoy your trip
• It’s an affordable country – aside from accommodation which I found disproportionally spenny, most things in Taiwan are cheap from food to transport. I barely spend £500 ($600) in 3 weeks!
• It’s easy to get around – so you don’t need to worry about hiring a car alone.

Bad things about solo travel in Taiwan

• It can be a bit lonely since it’s not yet as popular with other travellers as Thailand or Vietnam
• The cost of accommodation is high meaning getting a private room for one may eat into your budget, especially if you’re not a hostel person.

Best places to travel alone in Taiwan

Here’s where I recommend solo female travellers go, plus what to do there…

Taipei (the capital)

Taipei is a fantastic city and a great introduction to Taiwan. Although there are two other cities with international airports (Kaohsiung and Taichung), I suspect 99% of travellers start their trip here. Taipei is a blend of modern and traditional. Shiny, futuristic skyscrapers neighbour colourful temples dating back centuries. Food stands serving age-old delicacies passed down through generations are just a stone’s throw from modern bubble tea cafes. I spent 10 days in Taipei and didn’t run out of things to do!

Read next: 3-5 day Taipei itinerary

Things to do in Taipei

• Taipei 101 – visit the observation deck inside or hike the Xiangshan Trail to Elephant Mountain for the best views
• Explore Ximending – this modern, vibrant neighbourhood is alive throughout the day and night with street performers, markets, shopping opportunities and bubble tea cafes. It’s safe to wander at any time
• Take a free walking tour with TourMeAway – they have free tours of the Old Town and Longshan Temple, plus food tours at a surcharge (I can highly recommend their food tours!)
• Visit important sites such as Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple and the National Palace Museum
• Soak in bubbling thermal springs in Beitou – visit the museum, sightsee at the Thermal Valley and soak in the Public Hot Springs with the locals
• Songshan Cultural and Creative Park – this refurbished factory is a hub for art, design and events
• Eat at all the night markets – such as Shillin, Raohe, Linjiang and Huaxi.

Day trips from Taipei

Jiufen – if you take just one day trip from the capital, make it this scenic hillside town. Dating back to the Japanese gold rush, it’s an ex-mining town full of adorable tea houses (A-Mei Teahouse being one of the best) and atmospheric winding streets. It’s also a renowned foodie destination with all kinds of delicacies to discover. There’s a direct bus connecting the capital and Juifen or you can take a regular train service to Ruifang and jump on a bus the last section. It’s a safe and lovely place for solo travel in Taiwan so don’t skip it!

Read next: the perfect Juifen & Shifen day trip from Taipei

Shifen and the Pingxi Line – the touristic railway village of Shifen where people release lanterns for luck is just one stop along this train line that connects attractions in the countryside. Although Shifen is a pleasant town and Shifen Falls is worth a visit, my highlight (obviously!) was the stop before: Houtong Cat Village where feline friends rule the roost. After Shifen, the final stop on the line is Pingxi Village, a more peaceful version of Shifen. The line begins at Ruifang Station. One option for a solo day out from Taipei is to make all the stops along the Pingxi Line and save Juifen for another day. Alternatively, see Juifen and Shifen during the same day with this tour ($38) .

Yehliu Geopark – the weird and wonderful volcanic shapes caused by nature have become tourist attractions, thought to resemble common objects and people’s profiles. Make your own mind up whilst wandering this open-air gallery beside the sea. Take a bus or a day tour (using my guide to Yehliu Geopark ).

Related tour ($38) – Jiufen, Shifen & Yehlui during one day

Yangminshan National Park – the closest national park to the capital is the best place to escape the city and feel at one with nature. For some peaceful soul-searching during your solo travels in Taiwan, you can arrive by public transport, car hire or an organised day tour.

Where to stay in Taipei – easily the best-rated hotel is Star Main with 9.7 stars out of 10 based on almost 3,000 reviews! Browse all hostels on Hostelworld .

Having enjoyed all the city pleasures of the capital, I didn’t know what to expect from Kahosiung. But I loved it! Sure, it’s not as huge as Tapiei, but it may be better for those who feel overwhelmed by big megacities. It’s a creative, arty city with lots of colourful places to visit. My favourite attraction in Kaohsiung is the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas beside the peaceful Lotus Pond. These two huge statues connect the pagoda behind; enter via the dragon’s mouth and exit via the tiger for luck. Before heading back to the city centre, visit other pagodas around the lake: the Autumn & Spring Pagodas and Zuoying Yuandi Temple.  The Rainbow Church on Cijin Island is another Instagrammable attraction, and you also can’t miss Pier 2 Art Center near the harbour (where you get the boat to Cijin). If you’re feeling energetic, hike Monkey Mountain or take a trip out of town to Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum where a 108-metre Buddha statue awaits. Foodies travelling alone in Taiwan, don’t miss Liuhe Night Market or the more authentic option of Ruifeng Night Market. These are great places for cheap and informal dining, ideal if you don’t want to dine alone in a restaurant. Where to stay in Kaohsiung: the best-rated hostel in town is Ahiruyah , which is spotlessly clean with easy access to all the city’s important attractions.

Hualien and Taroko National Park

Taiwan has fantastic cities but the nature is also incredible! Especially if you’re not a big city person, a trip to Taroko Gorge is the perfect dose of nature and me-time during a solo trip to Taiwan. The best place to stay near Taroko is Hualien, a city on Taiwan’s east coast just a 2-3 hour train ride from Taipei. From here, there are a couple of ways to explore the park: hire a car, ride the hourly shuttle service that visits points of interest around the park, or take an organised day tour. Highlights for your Taroko Gorge itinerary include the Swallow’s Trail where birds swoop in the canyon above picturesque hanging bridges; Changchun Shrine (a beautiful temple cut into the hillside beside a waterfall) and Shakadang Trail, the best place to get off-grid and do some walking. Hualien is a decent base with great places to eat like Dongdamen Night Market. I stayed at On My Way which is a lovely hostel close to the station. World Inn also has great reviews.

Another suitable place for solo female travel in Taiwan is Taichung, a mid-sized city on the west coast that makes for a pleasant stop-off when travelling between Taipei and Kaohsiung. It was the Rainbow Village that used to bring lots of travellers to Taichung but sadly it was vandalised in 2022 and is now quite different. Other things to do in Taichung include:

• Visit the first bubble tea cafe – as a super fan, you can imagine how excited I was about visiting Chun Shui Tang ! It didn’t disappoint
• Zhongshe Flower Market – these gorgeous flower fields are the perfect place for a photoshoot
• Take a day trip to Sun Moon Lake – one of Taiwan’s must-visit places, easily reached from Taichung. Take a boat on the lake, ride a cable car above it, or hike around it
• Have the best ice cream of your life at Miyahara – but seriously! This place is a palace and the ice cream is phenomenal.

Being Taiwan, of course there’s plenty to eat in Taichung. I even wrote a guide to the best food in Taichung . I stayed at Getcha Hostel with cosy pod bunks, but T Life also has fantastic reviews.

Kenting National Park

Easily accessed from Kaoshiung or Hualien, this wonderful national park on the southern tip of Taiwan is a place to relax and unwind during solo travel in Taiwan. Stay overnight in Kenting or Hengchun. The only downside to visiting Kenting Nat Park alone is that the best way to get around is by hiring your own transport, either a car or scooter (an international driving license is required for either). However, there are shuttle buses travelling around the park so DIYing it is possible provided you manage your expectations about seeing everything. Highlights of Kenting include visiting Longluan Lake, Maobitou Park and lookout, watching sunsets (from Guanshan Sunset Viewing Park or Eluanbi Lighthouse) and hitting the beaches. These aren’t the quality of Southeast Asia but they make for a decent beach break when visiting Taiwan. Beaches worth visiting include Baishawan Beach, South Bay and Kenting Beach.

Although I ran out of time to visit Tainan, this is an important stop for history lovers planning a Taiwan solo travel itinerary. You can stay overnight or visit as an easy day trip from Kaohsiung (just 1 hour on the slow train and 15 minutes on the High-Speed Train). The historic Qing Dynasty capital from the 1600s-1800s is full of fortresses (such as Anping) and temples (such as Luermen Mazu Temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea). Nowadays, there are a few modern influences, too, like Blueprint Creative Park.

Best season to visit Taiwan

Although you can visit Taiwan solo year-round, it’s a destination with clear seasons. I went in May and it was VERY rainy! Although I still enjoyed my trip, I’d recommend visiting outside of rainy season if you’re on a tight schedule because you won’t be able to reschedule activities cancelled due to bad weather. Spring (March-May) – before the rainy season, the weather is still cool. This is an ideal time to visit Taiwan. However, the rain starts in May so this is not the best month. Visit in Feb or March to see the cherry blossoms! Summer (June-August) – this is the hottest and most crowded time to visit Taiwan so not optimum. There’s also the chance of typhoons. Autumn (September-November) – this is another ideal time to visit Taiwan when the rainy season has ended and the December crowds have yet to arrive. Winter (December-February) – this is the coldest time to visit Taiwan, plus the Christmas and New Year period is busy and expensive. Overall, the best times to go are April and October-November, either side of rainy season when the weather isn’t too hot or too cold.

Cost of solo Taiwan travel

Solo travellers visiting Taiwan will be relieved to know it’s generally not an expensive destination. Getting around the country is affordable if you take the TRA slow train ($10-25 a journey), and getting around cities is super affordable with the MRT underground and buses (around $1 a journey). Food in Taiwan is incredibly affordable! Eating mainly at night markets rather than restaurants isn’t a sacrifice because this is where some of the best food can be found. Dishes start from $1! And you don’t need to skip restaurants entirely if you’re on a budget because a meal with a drink costs around $5. The only thing about Taiwan is that accommodation is a little expensive in comparison to other costs like food and transport. In Taipei, you’ll struggle to find dorm beds for less than $20 a night, meaning accommodation is more than double the cost of travelling alone in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries.

If you don’t want to stay in a hostel dorm, you’ll need to up your budget as a solo traveller in Taiwan because private rooms start at $35. It’s cheaper outside of the cities so, if you decide to mix up dorms and private rooms, I suggest being tactical about where you do it.

Read next: Taiwan travel budget

Where is Taiwan?

Taiwan is an island located off the east coast of China (separated by the Taiwan Strait), north of the Philippines and southwest of South Korea and Japan.

Getting to Taiwan

Being an island, you’re pretty limited about how to arrive in Taiwan. Most travellers arrive by air into Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). Flights from other Asian countries start from $50. The cheapest flights are usually to Vietnam , China, South Korea (see my guide to solo Korea travel if you’re heading here next), Japan and Singapore . I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights. Getting from the airport to downtown Taipei is quick and easy using the MRT: ride the purple line to Taipei Main Station in 35 minutes. The bus is cheaper and slower (around 1 hour) but a reliable option outside of MRT hours (6am-11pm).

How to get around Taiwan

The train system in Taiwan is incredibly efficient, if a little confusing to understand at first. I got around Taiwan using… HSR – the high-speed train (Taiwan’s answer to Japan’s bullet train) is the quickest but most expensive way to get around. It connects Taipei to Kaohsiung in just 2 hours. Journeys can be booked up to 29 days in advance and cost up to $35. I used 12Go to book my tickets.

TRA – these trains are slower but worth it for budget travellers. Taiwan is small so the journeys never take forever. The trains are clean and reliable. They fill up quicker than HSR trains so book in advance, especially at weekends and public holidays. Note – I had problems trying to buy TRA train tickets (as opposed to HSR ones) online with a foreign bank card so I always bought them at the station a day or two in advance. Bus – although I never took buses when travelling solo in Taiwan (aside from city buses and shuttles in the national parks), there’s a wide network of comfy buses that can be even cheaper than the train. Kuo Kuang and UBus are two of the main networks.  Rental car – some travellers visiting Taiwan hire a car but I can’t see the need, really, with this many efficient and affordable public transport options (especially for solo travellers in Taiwan who’ll have to do all the driving and front the whole cost).

Read next: 25 Taiwan travel tips for a first visit

Getting around Taipei

The MRT (underground train) is a cheap, clean and efficient way to get around Taipei . There are 107 stations connected by 5 lines (brown, red, green, orange and blue). Journeys cost around 20-60 NT$ (up to $2) depending on distance. Note – there’s no eating or drinking allowed on the MRT! I even got told off once for drinking water. There’s also an expansive network of city buses that travel further afield than the MRT, connecting the city with day trip destinations like Yangmingshan National Park and Juifen. Buses are slightly cheaper than MRT journies but a little more convoluted.

Be sure to pick up an EasyCard . Not only do these save you money but you can top them up in advance, saving time on purchasing each ticket individually.

Bicycle: Unlock a bike from any YouBike station and pay using your EasyCard.

Getting around Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung also has an efficient MRT system although there are just 2 lines, connecting at Formosa Boulevard station (don’t miss the Dome of Light art installation while there). There are also LRT overground trains, city buses and the ferry connecting Cijin Island with the mainland. Your EasyCard works here, too.

Taiwan food & night markets

I loved the food in Taiwan. Not only are there many local delicacies but there’s fantastic Korean and Japanese food, too (for a fraction of the price of food in those countries). The sushi is phenomenal! During solo travel in Taiwan, I rarely ate in restaurants even though dining alone isn’t something I mind at all. The night market food was just so good I rarely needed to! Some of my favourite Taiwanese foods are:

• TFC – Taiwanese fried chicken is a popular dish, especially with young people who can be found crowded around Hot Starr in Taipei’s Ximending district
• Bubble tea – this is the birthplace of boba so it would be rude not to drink it everywhere!
• Xiao long bao – soup dumplings are best eaten at Din Tai Fung restaurant. Don’t stop with them: there are so many types of dumplings in Taiwan!
• Coffin toast – a hollowed-out hunk of bread is filled with a creamy stew. A calorific feast!
• Beef noodles – this dish in a rich soup is best eaten on Kong Kang Street in Taipei.

The only Taiwanese food I didn’t like was stinky tofu ! This may be the national dish but I couldn’t get past its overwhelming odour.

Do you need travel insurance as Taiwan is so safe?

Although Taiwan is safe for solo female travellers, I always recommend getting travel insurance. Although you’re unlikely to be victim to a violent crime, it’s possible that you could fall sick and need emergency treatment, just like you could anywhere in the world. I use  True Traveller : it costs £30 (€40) per month for world coverage for a year. When I’ve claimed, they’ve had the money in my account within days. They cover pre-existing health conditions and will cover you if you’re already travelling and/or don’t yet have your flight home booked.  Click to get a quote . True Traveller is just for European residents (including the UK) so, for other nationalities, I recommend  Hey Mundo  and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest   Safety Wing .

Getting a SIM card in Taiwan and do you need it?

One of my top solo travel tips for women is to stay connected by getting a local SIM card. You can buy these in local stores (just remember to bring your passport as they usually ask). To get connected right away, buy an e-SIM on Airalo that you can download to connect as soon as you land. Browse packages from 7-30 days from $4.50 or, if you’re visiting other countries on your trip, check out Airalo’s Asialink card covering 18 countries including Taiwan. However, you don’t absolutely NEED a SIM in Taiwan because there’s free Wi-Fi in MRT stations and 7-Eleven stores. When sightseeing, it’s easy to quickly get online to do research or load your next journey.

Can you drink tap water in Taiwan? The tap water is technically safe to drink but many travellers choose to play it safe by buying bottled water or bringing a reusable water bottle and filling up from filtered units at their accommodation. This is what I did. What is Taiwan like for vegetarians? The typical food isn’t the best as there’s lots of pork (and the national dish of stinky tofu tends to revolt foreign travellers), however it’s easy to find buffet restaurants where you can fill up a lunchbox with ingredients of your choice. Opt for all the veggies. Should you tip in Taiwan? No, Taiwan does not have a big tipping culture so it’s not something you need to factor into your budget.

Thanks for reading!

More solo travel guides…

Guides to solo travel in Europe :

• Solo female travel in Europe
• The perfect solo trip to Lisbon
• Solo travel in Albania – is it safe?
• Complete guide to solo female travel in Croatia
• Solo travel in Italy
• Is it safe to travel to Romania solo?

Solo travel in the Americas:

• Solo female travel in New York
• Is Cuba good for solo travel?
• Mexico solo travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo female traveller in Mexico City
• Solo travel in Belize
• Guatemala solo travel guide

Guides to solo female travel in Southeast Asia :

• Solo travel in South Korea
• Solo female travel in Bali
• Where to travel solo in Vietnam as a woman
• What to know about solo Malaysia travel
• Thailand solo travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo traveller in India

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

TAIWAN QUICK LINKS Getting there – it’s easy to arrive by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. To stay connected, buy an e-SIM with Airalo and use data as normal. Browse their Korea SIM packages . In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Taiwan . Car hire – I recommend RentalCars.com for car hire in Taiwan and around the world. For Taiwan High Speed Trains , use 12Go . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. e-SIM: Stay connected with an Airalo e-SIM data plan: they have a Taiwan SIM card or an Asialink card covering 18 countries that you can download in advance of your trip. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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Girl about the Globe

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Solo Travel in Taiwan

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Active, Foodie, Nature, Spiritual & Wellness

When you solo travel in Asia , Taiwan is such an under-rated country and a hidden gem in Asia. It doesn’t have the crowds of tourists that you find in Japan and it’s incredibly safe. Plus there is bubble tea everywhere! This article is an overview of Taiwan. I spent a week here and share my travel tips, the best places to see the country, how to get around and places to stay to inspire you to visit Taiwan.  

Taiwan is ranked as the second safest country in the world behind Japan. In Taipei you’ll find some people speaking English. The Taiwanese are so accommodating and will even make a u-turn in the street to help you if you look lost and escort you where you are supposed to go. From my own personal experience, being in Taiwan feels comfortable because no one stares at you here. There is also an expat community as there are a lot of women teaching English.

Taipei is a foodie heaven with its numerous night markets offering all sorts of cheap but delicious local food. It’s also vegetarian friendly with amazing vegetarian cuisine. Make sure to try the beef noodle soup and smelly tofu that the country is known for. 

As well as outdoor adventure and good hiking, Taiwan offers museums, monuments, water parks, hot springs, and also smaller islands with gorgeous beaches and great scuba diving.

Wellness solos will be in their element here as the locals are into their spas and the country has hot springs too. But, check before you go in as some of them don’t allow swimwear but it’s definitely a liberating experience. You also need a swimming cap too!

Taiwan has so much nature and nature solos will love Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge. For cultural solos, there is also a Buddhist monastery which hosts retreats for foreigners to teach them more about Buddhism.

If you're unsure where to go in Taiwan, I have included my favourite places in Taiwan below to help you to plan your solo trip.

Taipei is the capital of Taiwan. This city is really cool and a good place to base yourself for a few nights if you don’t have time to travel around the rest of the country. You can do plenty of day trips from here.  

One landmark that you have to see here is Taipei 101. This is the city’s tallest building (it used to be the Grand Hotel before). This 508-meter-tall skyscraper was once the world's tallest building, boasting a unique design inspired by traditional Asian pagodas. Head up to its observatory to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

My tip – If you're on a day tour, the company may drop you at Taipei 101 after the tour so check with them before. When you leave, if you order an Uber from Taipei 101, they only pick up from a certain area so make sure to exit from the East gate for your pick up. 

In the modern Xinyi district, you'll find upscale shopping malls, nightlife, and a dynamic dining scene. And if you're interested in history and culture, make sure to explore the indigenous cultures of Taiwan at the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines.

The National Palace Museum in Taiwan is a treasure trove of ancient Chinese artefacts that takes you on a journey through Chinese history and culture. Its extensive exhibits include priceless artworks, ceramics, calligraphy, and historical treasures. Nearby, the serene Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall stands as a tribute to the country's former leader.

Nature solos can venture to Yangmingshan National Park , where you’ll find hiking trails amongst lush landscapes and sulfur hot springs. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the changing of the guard ceremony at the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, a tribute to the founding father of the Republic of China.

Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is a beautifully restored tobacco factory turned creative hub in Taipei. It hosts a range of exhibitions, events, and cultural activities, making it a hotspot for art and design enthusiasts. Stroll through its historic architecture, art galleries, and craft shops, and immerse yourself in Taipei's vibrant creative scene. It’s super nice and arty.

Taipei is also ideal to explore solo at night and the city is renowned for its bustling night markets; Shilin Night Market being one of the best. Here, you can taste a wide array of Taiwanese street food, shop for local goods, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant street culture.

But if you don’t get a chance to see that night market, you can explore the Huaxi Street Night market instead. As the Huaxi Tourist Street Market is located near one of city's beautiful temples, Longsham Temple.

Longsham Temple is a historic Buddhist temple renowned for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance. Built in 1738, it features beautiful carvings and decorations and is even more stunning at night with a really serene atmosphere.

It’s really safe wandering through the lit streets and when you’re here, you can also indulge in some of Taiwan’s wellness. The night market has plenty of massage parlours for 400 TWD (New Taiwan dollar) which include a 20 minute free shoulder massage too!

Day Tours from Taipei

Yehliu, jiufen & pingxi.

From Taipei it’s easy to take day tours to explore the north and east of the island. The most reachable day trips are Yehliu, Juifen and Pingxi all located in the new Taipei area that you can combine in one full day tour.

Yehliu is stunning. This coastal gem in northern Taiwan is a Geopark of natural rock formations shaped by erosion. It’s a really unique place to visit with a surreal landscape and formations such as a sandstone turtle and large mushroom.   The most famous formations here are the “Princess’ and the “Queen’s Head” which sadly is eroding away. Tip – if you visit during the summer months there is no shade here so take a hat or umbrella to protect you from the sun.

One of my favourite places in Taiwan is Jifeun Village. This former gold-mining town has a chaotic charm to it where you can lose yourself in the assortment of shops as wander through its passageway. And don’t worry as you won’t get lost here either.  

The street is full of local stores and sellers passing you free oolong tea and local food to try such as their famous pineapple cake. Make sure to try the ice cream and peanut spring roll. They even produce their own coffee too! It’s a great place to buy presents and souvenirs whether it’s just for yourself or others to take back home.  

One of the most iconic and popular tea houses here is the A-Mei Teahouse, perched on a hillside, that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the coast. Nearby is the Daoist temple known as Jiufen Wangyou Temple (also known as the Wangyou Shrine). This temple is famous for its unique dragon sculpture that coils around the temple's pillars (a symbol of power, protection and good fortune in Chinese culture).

Taiwan even has its own ‘Little Niagara Falls'. Shifen Falls is also located in New Taipei and seeing its cascades from the several viewing platforms is definitely impressive. It's a really lovely area to sit and enjoy a snack or drink too. 

If you do go on a tour that combines all of these areas, you'll also get to visit Pinxi. This small village nestled in a valley with a Taiwanese charm is known for its annual Sky Lantern Festival. You'll see air lanterns as they are let off into the sky, each one with a handwritten message of the sender’s wishes for the future. 

Pinxi is a working train track so make sure to listen out for the tooting of a passing train as everyone steps of the tracks and out of its way.  

The Maokong Gondola is a scenic cable car system in Taipei that takes you on a breathtaking journey through lush tea plantations, offering stunning views of the city and mountains. It's a unique opportunity to savor Taiwan's tea culture, explore traditional teahouses, and take in the serene atmosphere of the Maokong area.

Taichung City

Head south of Taipei to Taichung city, the Silicon Valley of Taiwan. This city has the most skyscrapers in the whole of the country and is where modernity is said to meet tradition. 

Arty and Museum solos can explore art and culture at the National Museum of Fine Arts or check out a performance at the National Taichung Theatre with its own unique funky design. You can learn about the region's history at the 921 Earthquake Museum or get artsy at Rainbow Village, renowned for its colourful murals.

The vibrant artwork of a retired soldier featuring diverse scenes and characters, saved the village from demolition and instead turned it into a popular tourist spot. It’s worth visiting just for the story and impact of one man’s creativity to preserve his home.  

Kaohsiung is the largest port in Taiwan with the best river name. The Love River is the heart of the city where you can walk along the river or take a scenic boat ride. See vibrant temples, including the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at the Lotus Pond, or visit Cijin Island for its sandy beaches and fresh seafood. Get creative at the Pier-2 Art Center which hold cultural events or see panoramic view of the city at 85 Sky Tower. 

But my favourite place here is the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. There are so many Buddhas here; it's an amazing place. This huge complex is home to the world’s tallest bronze sitting Buddha statue which is stunning. The Great Buddha Land is one of Fo Guang Shan Temple’s oldest landmarks. It features 480 statues of Buddha which surround a forty meter-tall Great Buddha. If you don't get a chance to see any other place in Taiwan, make sure you visit this amazing, peaceful place. 

Sun Moon Lake

Not far from Taichung is one of my favourite places in Taiwan. Sun Moon Lake is stunning and is called so because of its sun and moon shaped resemblance, this giant lake has so many beautiful places to visit and is really tranquil. It’s also ideal for the active solo as you can kayak across it or take a boat trip. There are also hiking and cycling trails around the lake such as the Shuishe Bikeway.

As well as its temples, you can also learn about the indigenous Thao tribe at the Thao Village on the east side of the lake and see their traditional houses and handicrafts. There’s a pier here and many local stalls selling their local cuisine. Make sure to try the rice chicken wings (which is chicken stuffed with rice), Gao bao – Taiwanese hamburger made of boar, and millet on a bamboo stick which is a tribal snack. (You can find all these stores near the 7/11 shop).

Tainan, Taiwan's oldest city, is a tapestry of history and culture. Explore the ancient Chihkan Tower and Koxinga Shrine, both steeped in history that showcase the city's heritage. The Anping Old Fort provides a good insight into Taiwan's colonial past and there's the Confucius Temple, one of Taiwan's oldest. 

The Chihkan Tower and Koxinga Shrine, steeped in history, showcase the city's cultural heritage. Anping Old Fort sheds light on Taiwan's colonial past. The Confucius Temple, one of Taiwan's oldest, exudes tranquility and tradition.

The city's vibrant street food scene is a delight for foodies and make sure to visit the Flower night Market when you're here too. 

Kenting National Park

Located in southern Taiwan, Kenting National Park is another must-see when you solo travel Taiwan. This natural wonderland has coastline and lush grasslands. You can go hiking at stunning Longpan Park, or see the Eluanbi Lighthouse, that stands tall on Taiwan's southernmost tip, surrounded by unique geological formations. The Maobitou coastal area is another gem, famous for its breathtaking sea-carved terrain and picturesque scenery.

The White Sand Bay and Xiaowan Beaches are perfect for sunbathing and water sports. and if you love exploring underwater, Kenting's coral reefs are another must-see, teeming with colorful marine life. As with the rest of the country, Kenting also has a vibrant night market where you can sample even more Taiwanese street food. 

Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is a natural wonder with marble cliffs and waterfalls, temples and bridges. If you love nature this is a definite must-see. And there are hiking trails such as the Zhuilu Old Trail, and the Shakadang Trail for the active solo.  

The Eternal Spring Shrine is a 200m trail which offers stunning views of the marble gorge. The trail leads to the shrine that was built of memory of the workers who died building the Central Cross Island highway.  

The Swallow Grotto Trail gives you fantastic views of the marble canyons carved by the Liwu River. The Tunnel of Nine Turns is like a winding rollercoaster road through the gorge, and the Baiyang Waterfall Trail takes you to a picturesque waterfall. Taroko Gorge is a must-visit for anyone into nature and culture.

Tours in Taiwan

I spent time solo in Taipei and booked a 5-day tour for the rest of the country for the ease of getting around. I recommend Edison Travel as the guide was amazing. I met some great people and stayed in 5-star hotels that I wouldn’t have been able to afford otherwise. The tour visits the most popular and most important places in the country so it’s a great way to explore Taiwan.  

Edison tour also offer day tours from Taipei to the north. I used them again for Yehliu, Jiufen & Pingxi. * Check rates and availability for Ediison Travel tours

Accommodation in Taiwan

Taiwan has a range of accommodation from the capsule hotels in Taipei to luxury 5 star hotels with their own hot springs in your room. The room sizes for budget accommodation can be quite small but if you're travelling solo then it's more than enough space for one person. 

I’ve listed below all the accommodation that I personally stayed in as well as recommended accommodation from our solo female community. * Check rates and availability for all Taiwan accommodation

Taipei  

• $ – Star Hostel Taipei Main Station – I love this place so much that I stayed here twice! The staff are really helpful and you can choose from a dorm bed or private room. Breakfast is delicious and there is a lovely common space too. 
• $$ –   Citizen Hotel – This 3-star hotel is near the subway and walking distance to restaurants. They also offer an airport shuttle and laundry and you can store your luggage with them  too. 
• $$$ –  Inhouse Hotel Taipei – This 4-star hotel is a great area, just a 5 minute walk from the train station. The staff are really welcoming and helpful. 

Sun Moon Lake – Fleur De Chine – This 5-star hotel is just gorgeous. Situated near the lake, it has a pool, sauna and hot springs and even had hot springs in my room! 

Kaohsiung – Grand Hi Lai Hotel – This 5-star hotel is one of the tallest skyscrapers in Kaohsiung. It even has its own mall on the ground level with a fantastic food court. 

Taitung –   Royal Hotel Chihpen – I loved the hot springs in this hotel (and in my room). They even had lavender and green tea springs. Breakfast at this 5-star hotel was amazing and they also host cultural performances every evening. My room even came with its own coffee machine and snacks!

Taroko –  Silks Place Taroko Hotel – This hotel is just gorgeous. There's a rooftop pool with hot tubs and even an outdoor cinema. Plus They hold weekly yoga classes and have cultural singers in the evenings. It's located in such a peaceful place in the gorge. 

Best Time To Go To Taiwan

March to May and sept to nov are best times to visit Taiwan. The summer months can get humid and sweaty. I travelled around the country during September as it was still very hot especially in the south where apparently it’s always summer. Below is an annual weather chart for Taipei to help you decide when to go.

FAQs  

• Can I drink the water? Yes the tap water is safe to drink.  
• Is tipping expected? In restaurants, there is usually a service fee added so you don’t need to tip. It’s expected to tip your tour guide and driver (separately).  
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed price.
• Any ATMs? Yes and you can find ATMS in the 7-Eleven shops .  
• Which side of the road do they drive? On the right-hand side
• Good for vegetarians? Yes. There are lots of places that are good for vegetarians and vegans . 
• Any Seven Wonders of the World? No.

Plan a Trip to Taiwan

Capital –   Taipei City

Population – 23.57 million

Language spoken – Mandarin Chinese. Some people speak a little English  

Local Currency – New Taiwan dollar  

Do I need a visa? For British Citizens you don’t need a visa for Taiwan. You can stay up 90 days.  

Vaccinations Required  

Useful Info

Airlines to Taipei

Which Plug Do I Need?  

Events and Festivals in Taiwan  

Local Cost Guide  

Local Customs & Etiquette  

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(photo @go2taiwan.net) 

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Solo Travel In Taiwan and Why It’s Worth It (2024)

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After living as a digital nomad in Hong Kong for a month, I wanted to explore more countries in Asia that I hadn’t been to before. One last-minute flight later I was headed to the airport to see what Taiwan has to offer, and I was surprised, it was amazing! I loved it so much that I extended my trip twice and ended up staying for two weeks.

Is Taiwan worth visiting, you ask? Absolutely! It’s not just about the sights, but also the people. Taiwanese are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making any solo traveler feel right at home. Plus, there’s an endless list of things to do in Taiwan alone that I can’t wait to share with you.

Solo Travel in Taiwan

Safety tips for solo travelers.

Stepping foot into a new country alone indeed promises an exhilarating experience. Still, safety should always be at the forefront of a solo traveler’s mind, and taking a few precautionary steps, like purchasing travel insurance , can greatly help. Many may disregard it, but it’s vital to remember that travel insurance is not just a “nice-to-have,” but rather a “must-have” when exploring foreign lands, especially alone. It covers mishaps from medical emergencies to trip cancellations and lost belongings. You might think you won’t need it, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Read here for more tips on things you should know before visiting Taiwan .

Solo Travel Experiences in Taiwan

Taiwan quickly climbed up my list of favorite places. Not a moment passed without me uncovering unique aspects of Taiwan’s culture, people, and landscape. Every day was dynamic and had something new to offer. I always recommend

Solo travel also gave me the freedom to experience Taiwan on my own terms. I wasn’t confined to itineraries or group decisions. Instead, I was open to exploring various paths, even at unusual hours. And not once did I feel unsafe. People generally kept to themselves, not intrusive but always there to help if needed. They respected my privacy, yet never hesitated to show the warm hospitality Taiwan is so famous for.

Taiwan is absolutely worth visiting and has a myriad of things to do alone . So, if you’re yearning for an exhilarating solo journey that brims with cultural richness, Taiwan should undoubtedly make it to the top of your list. And if you’re looking for a more in depth look at my vsiit, check out my Youtube video about my visit.

Is Taiwan Worth Visiting?

Reasons to visit taiwan.

Simply put, my solo travel in Taiwan was transformative and the country has much to offer all travelers, but especially those going solo. The warmth of its people, the rich history, and natural beauty are just a handful of reasons to put Taiwan at the top of your travel list.

Unique Culture and Cuisine

Then there’s the delectable food. Taiwan’s cuisine is a fantastic mix of local dishes with influences from China and Japan. You can’t miss out on traditional Taipei fare like Xiao long bao and beef noodle soup . Don’t forget to try an oyster omelet and unique dishes like fried chicken with basil and stinky tofu.

Din Tai Fung , a Michelin star restaurant, has put Taiwanese cuisine on the global map. It’s a hot spot for travelers and locals alike, confirming that it’s in the lineup for must-visit Taiwan experiences whether traveling alone or with a group.

This taste bud tantalizing journey is just another reason why Taiwan is not just worth a visit, but deserves a spot on your top must-visit destinations. If you want to meet other people while trying out some tasty new food, I always recommend booking a food tour!

Things to Do in Taiwan Alone

These activities showcase Taiwan’s lively culture, diverse influences, and stunning natural beauty that make it a fascinating destination.

Explore Night Markets

One of the top things to do in Taiwan alone has to be exploring its vibrant night markets. The Shilin Night Market and the Raohe Street Night Market are particularly noteworthy. Filled with an exciting bustle, these markets offer an array of scrumptious street food. From the bubble tea (which is originally from Taiwan!) to the steamed sesame pork buns, storefronts serve a symphony of flavors, color, and textures. It’s not just about the food though-the lively street performances and rare knick-knacks up for grabs make these night markets an unforgettable experience.

Visit Hot Springs

Soaking in Taiwan’s natural hot springs is an invaluable experience, inducing relaxation unlike any other. In Taipei, hotels often provide private baths fed by these springs. I stayed at the MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel and they had some I enjoyed. If that’s not your style, consider taking a day trip from Taipei to traditional hot spring towns. Wulai, was the town I chose; nestled in scenic landscapes, these hot springs offer tranquility, and the feeling of being one with nature, enhancing your solo journey.

Attend a Traditional Tea Ceremony

Tea ceremonies are a significant part of Taiwanese culture. They represent a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and learning. In Taipei, I suggest attending a ceremony at the Shangri-La . Sitting in front of sweeping views of the iconic Taipei 101 as you learn about Taiwanese tea traditions is a unique experience.

For a more immersive and traditional encounter, a day trip to Jiufen -a town popularly linked to the animated film “Spirited Away”-is highly recommended. The tea houses, paired with picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, offer a serene retreat from the bustling city life.

Key Takeaways

So, is Taiwan worth visiting? I’d say an emphatic yes! It’s a solo traveler’s dream destination. From the bustling night markets to serene hot springs, Taiwan offers a diverse range of experiences. Engaging in a traditional tea ceremony allows for a deeper dive into the local culture. The country’s natural beauty is a treat for the senses. Taiwan truly stands out with its unique blend of attractions, making it a must-visit for solo adventurers. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, or a gastronomic adventure, Taiwan has it all. Don’t just take my word for it, go explore Taiwan alone and create your own unique travel story. You won’t regret it!

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Taiwan Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

32 taiwan tours for singles / solo travelers with 61 reviews.

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Taiwan Explorer 11 Days Panorama Tour

Tailor-Made Best Taiwan Tour with Daily Departure & Private Guide

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Best of Taiwan 9 Days Tour

The trip was great. Eli at Delightful travel is such a delightful person to work with. Communication was great. They followed up every step of the way and problems are corrected immediately. I would definitely use tourradar and delightful travel again. However, the tour company used in taiwan can use some improvement. The guide named John and driver are definitely not used to western travelers.

Customized Private Taiwan Tour with Daily Departure

• In-depth Cultural
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Around Formosa Taiwan

This tour was magnificent, from the moment we arrived everything ran like clock work. We literally found our guide straight away and transfered by rail to the central station, where we took the bullet train to Tainan. Hotels were some of the best hotels i've stayed in, in the whole world, very impressive and the food is to die for.

• Mountain Hikes
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5-day Classic Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake & Alishan (Private)

We really enjoyed our 5 day tour with Bill Wang! He was very knowledgeable about every place we visited, cracked funny jokes, and had a very warm and welcoming personality. We would highly recommend him to our English speaking friends if they come visit Taiwan!

Taiwan Express

Great tour and excursions, professional guide, excellent choice of hotels, amazing food, unforgettable experience!!!

• Sightseeing

Explore Taiwan

I was in Taiwan on my solo trip. After checking out of my hotel at 11.30 am, I got a message that my flight was delayed by 5 hours. I was elated as I got a few more hours to roam around the beautiful city of Taipei, but I had to keep my luggage somewhere. There, among the many boons and banes, technology became a savior for travelers like us. Suddenly, my experience in Europe flashed in mind that I realized there must be luggage storage rental services in Asia as well. Well, luckily I got to know about Lalalocker, my savior. It was cheap as well and they operate out of salons, restaurants, cafes and many other common locations along the metro. I kept it in Ludique creme. However, these services recommend you not to keep expensive items in your luggage, just in case. So, keep a small backpack handy to carry your expensive stuff with you before ditching your luggage. This service of Lalalocker in Taiwan made my day! Nice service.

Around Taiwan 8 day Private Tour (Premium)

Thanks to our excellent knowledgable guide, the itinerary was well put and we have a great time and learned a lot about Taiwan. Overall we would highly recommended this tour to other travellers.

Taiwan Island - 9 Days

This was a perfect tour. Hui Liang, our tour guide was amazing. Every detail was executed perfectly. She was kind, respectful, knowledgeable, and took care of everyone like they were her own family.

Luxury Taiwan Panorama

Land of Jade & Tea – Active Taiwan

Around Taiwan (Private)

The 6-day private Taiwan tour offers a great insight into the scenic and cultural highlights of Taiwan. Everything was wonderfully organized, from booking the tour, to communication and the entire process. Our tour guide Ken was great, incredibly friendly and helpful. We were also able to modify the tour a bit according to our own preferences. The tour program was very varied and diverse, from hiking in Taroko Park, to a short bike ride through the rice fields, to painting our own lantern with a famous Taiwanese lantern painter. Our great tour guide Ken gave us a lot of interesting information about Taiwan, we tried a lot of delicious local food and gained a super insight into the great country. We can highly recommend the tour. Everything was perfectly organized, it could not have been done better!

• Photography
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Abandoned Taiwan

excellent, highly recommendable, versatile, not the general kind of tourism one receives mostly everywhere with large groups of boring people. This was not everything spoon fed but for the person who has an interest in a country and doesn't mind the unusual, the different, the out -of-the way experience. We would like to see more but due to the Earth quake we were unable to travel the East Coast of Taiwan but will keep it in mind. Good food, inexpensive, great markets (not just night markets but the artistic markets), good hotels, good driver and tour guide, in short summary, highly recommendable for the person who wants to have an experience outside the famous box. There are plenty of those tours for the boxed-in travelers elsewhere.

Bike Taiwan

What people love about taiwan solo tours.

This was packaged as a 9 day tour. Its actually 6 days.Other das were travel days and free time.

This was an excellent tour!!! Alan Chou was a fantastic tour guide -- knowledgeable, helpful, friendly, and funny to boot. The sights were amazing and so were the hotels we stayed in. The itinerary was very well designed. Didn't realize Taiwan was so beautiful! I highly recommend this to anyone who wants to explore Taiwan.

This was such a wonderful trip. Our itinerary was changed last minute due to a devastating earthquake that occurred just a week before, and the steps taken to ensure that we’d be safe while still having a lovely trip were amazing. There was a lot of communication with the changes, which my group and I very much appreciated. Our tour guide, Jaren, was beyond phenomenal. He was very knowledgeable, professional, personable, and hilarious, and he carefully listened and asked about our preferences to make a very tailored experience. I highly recommend anyone to use this company, and pray that you get Jaren! It’s really the best way to see my happy place on Earth: Taiwan!

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Taiwan solo travel blog — the suggested taiwan solo travel itinerary on how to spend 5 days in taiwan perfectly.

I racked my brains about the week-off the company gave. Meanwhile, there were hardly any friends having a moment to spare and all colleagues already had their own plans. And then I saw by chance the information that entry visa is free in Taiwan for Vietnamese who ever has either one of America, Canada, England, Japan, Australia, Korea or Schengen visas and all you have to do is follow the instruction on Taipei Economic and Culture Office website. As I already had a Japan and a Korea visa for my own, so I easily booked Vietjet Air round-trip ticket from Hanoi to Taipei with costs three million. Therefore, my vacation was started with a solo trip to Taiwan – an exquisite island country. If you have more time you can spend 6 days , 7 days , 10 days or even 11 days in Taiwan . So, what to do in 5 days in Taiwan when solo traveling? Let’s check it out our Taiwan solo travel blog with the suggested Taiwan solo travel itinerary (Taiwan solo trip itinerary) on how to make a solo trip in Taiwan in 5 days to find out the answer!

• Taiwan itinerary 6 days — The itinerary of a trip to Taipei – Hualien – Kaohsiung for 6 days 5 nights
• Taiwan itinerary 3 days — How to spend 3 days 2 nights in Taiwan & what to do in Taiwan for 3 days perfectly?
• Taiwan food trip — 24 hour culinary experience in Taiwan

Explore Fenqihu old street — What to do in Fenqihu in a day trip?

What to do in alishan — 5 top attractions & best things to do in alishan, taiwan.

As I was a solo traveller, I’ve already prepared clearly in advance. There is nothing to worry about because Taiwan is definitely safe even you are a girl and going alone, convenient transportation, in spite of your shortage of language knowledge, you can absolutely wreck Taiwan.

Now, let’s check out my perfect five-day itinerary (Taiwan solo travel blog, Taiwan solo travel itinerary, Taiwan solo trip itinerary) in Taiwan.

Taiwan solo travel itinerary — Day 1: Hanoi – Taipei

Vietjet’s flight took off at 15:05 in Hanoi and landed at about 19.00 in Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. Because of going alone, it’s really important to keep in touch with relatives and friends that why I bought Chunghwa Telecom’s high speed 4G SIM card with 7 days of unlimited data in the main hall of the airport and available 150 TWD (almost $5) for making a call and texting. Because I’ve booked hostel closed to Taipei Main Station after entering, I quickly made a move to bus station so that I can buy ticket to go to Taipei Main Station. At the airport, there are full of instruction boards written in English for tourists to easily get the right ways.

The bus no 1819 whose ticket costs 125 TWD (about $4) went to Taipei Main Station and took almost an hour to get to the center. In fact, there are several ways to move to the center from Taoyuan airport but bus is the cheapest one. Or if you catch the Taipei Airport train (MRT), it will only take 35 minutes but the ticket costs 160 TWD (about $5.3).

You can book Taoyuan Airport MRT Ticket & SIM Card & Exclusive Shopping Coupon for cheaper here.

I’ve booked a bed for myself in the girl’s dorm room at Apartment 10F (Taipei) ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) and it only took me about seven-minute-walk from Taipei Main Station with 515 TWD (about $17) per night on booking.com. This hostel is managed by two lovely girls and both of them had traveled a lot, excellent English communication as well as enthusiasm. About the hostel, cute decoration, spacious, clean, high speed wifi, air conditioner and water heater are equipped as well as breakfast service. Also, on the ten floor of this hostel has great night view of this whole city.

It was kinda late after proceeding to the check-in, so I went to convenience store whose name is Hi-life to have dinner containing drink, rice ball and fried fish. Although they were bought at a convenience store, it was really a delicious meal for me to continue my trip the next day.

Taiwan solo travel blog — Day 2: Tainan – Taichung

Summer in Taiwan is boiling to say which means the sun is scorching hot and if you don’t bring umbrella along or put a jacket on, you’ll feel like burning and uncomfortable. Most of all, Taiwan’s weather isn’t as hot as Hanoi’s but I find standing under any trees or building’s shadows so relaxing.

The second day in Taiwan, I made a decision on taking a visit to Tainan and Taichung first.

It is over 300 kilometers from Taipei to Tainan that why it’s gonna take you about four to six hours by train or four to five hours by bus. As I don’t want to waste any time for moving, I decided to choose Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) which only takes almost 2 hours to get to Tainan. Most Taiwan high-speed trains are invested by Japan, no wonder why I had a feeling like I was on Shinkansen train. You can buy direct tickets at Taipei Main Station or get voucher(s) which gives you 20% off through Klook and then arriving at the station and exchange them to get your tickets.

[Limited Time Food Promo] Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Discounted Ticket from Taipei

The way from the station to Taiwan High Speed Rail is a bit far away Tainan center. After checking the map, I found it a quite long way, so I asked “Information center” for help and then, an employee showed me the way to the center by H31 bus. Most of all, this bus tickets are completely free.

I arrived at Tainan City Hall and caught a taxi which was totally 130 TWD (about $4.3). Anping Old Street is an old town, mostly the oldest one in Taiwan and filled with food and souvenir shops.

At noon, all the streets aren’t lively as much. In order to have a meal for my own, I stopped by a busy restaurant and wonder how to order here? After waiting for hours, I took a look at kitchen area and then an employee gave me a paper written by Chinese characters. Due to my lack of Chinese knowledge, I made a rash fill, gave it to that employee again and wait with fear for my unknown option. Luckily, my two dishes were pretty good. One was Taiwanese oyster omelette and the other was noodle soup.

Next, I took a bus to Tainan Confucius Temple and had a look at Fuzhong – an old town with a lot of lovely souvenirs shops.

After that, I went on a walk to Tainan Station and caught the train to Taichung which costs 363 TWD (about $12). Arriving at Taichung at night, I’ve already made a reservation in a dorm room at a hostel whose name is Ease Single Inn ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) that only takes five-minute-walk to Taichung Station.

Taiwan solo trip itinerary — Day 3: National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts – Rainbow Village

The third day in Taiwan, I discovered National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts and enjoyed the well-known Chun Shui Tang bubble tea on the B1 floor under the museum.

There is painted animation lane near this museum and Zhongxin market with a lot of vintage cafes which are perfect place to film and photograph as well.

I took bus to Rainbow Village right afterward. This village is truly one of a kind, all thanks to a veteran whose desire is creating a village with stranger colors in order to inspire people to be in good spirits.

When the sun is down, I stopped back Taipei from Taichung Station. And the ticket is worth 289 TWD (almost $10).

Taiwan solo travel itinerary — Day 4: Longshan Temple – Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Began in Taipei, I explored Longshan Temple, first built in 1738 and is one of the biggest as well as oldest temple in Taiwan.

Despite the again and again destroyed in the past, this temple was rebuilt in accordance with its own original look so that Longshan Temple is still holding on an ancient, solemn and sacred look until now. Therefore, you’ll see a lot of tourists as well as the citizens arriving here in order to worship.

How to get there: Stop in Longshan Temple metro station – the blue line.

After that, I went on exploring Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. This Square is really spacious and gorgeous. And luckily, I arrived on time to watch them relieve the sentry. It was just so interested.

How to get there: Get off the train at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall metro station – the red or green line.

Next, I stopped in Huashan 1914 Creative Park. This zone is kinda like the old Zone 9 complex in Hanoi. Huashan 1914 Creative Park is an artistry complex built up a waste factory contains art galleries, exhibitions, souvenirs, fashion shops, restaurants, cafes, … Thanks to all those, Huashan 1914 Creative Park makes a great impression on the young travelers who take not only sightseeing but also a lot of fantastic photos. Art shows are also organized occasionally here.

How to get there: Arrive at Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station – the yellow or blue line.

Speaking to Taipei, Taipei 101 Tower may be the most remarkable one. I also had a look at pictures gallery, paintings and took incredible Tapei 101 Tower photos.

How to get there: Get off the train at Taipei 101 or World Trade Center MRT Station – the red line

At night, I took in the sights at Raohe night market and of course, must try once stinky tofu – a famous specialty in Taiwan. Truly, it didn’t particularly smelt well but it was such a delicious snack that it can be accompanied by cabbage pickles, although I found it a bit salty with the sauce.

How to get there: Arrive at Songshan MRT Station – the green line.

Taiwan solo travel blog — Day 5: Xinmending – Hanoi

The VietJet return flight was pretty late for about 19:00, so I mostly bonus a day to wreck Taipei. I spent time wandering in such a busy and lively Xinmending that I could shop and enjoy Taiwan’s cuisine.

That was my perfect five-day in Taiwan which all was 10 million in total (no shopping things included). In spite of a variety of unreachable destinations, hope to see Taiwan again to wreck-it.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Taipei you can refer to

• Taoyuan Airport Private Transfers (TPE) for Taipei
• Sedan Taoyuan Airport Transfers (TPE) for Taipei
• [SALE] Taoyuan Airport MRT Ticket & Exclusive Shopping Coupon
• Taipei Free Walking Tour Historic Route
• Taipei Double Decker Bus Tour
• Taipei Popular Sightseeing Private Car Charter : Jiufen, Pingxi, and North Coast (Chinese/English/Korean)
• Northeast Coast Scenic Day Tour
• Jiufen Shuttle Bus from Ximen
• Yehliu, Shifen, and Jiufen Day Tour with Korean and English Speaking Guides
• [10% Off + 1 Extra Free Day] 4G SIM Card (TW Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan from Chunghwa Telecom
• 4G SIM Card (TPE Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan from Far EasTone Telecom
• 4G WiFi (TW Airport Pick Up) for Taiwan
• [Sale – Taiwan Food Promo] Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Discounted Ticket from Taipei
• Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Consecutive Unlimited Pass (2 or 3 Days)
• Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Discounted Ticket from Taoyuan
• THSR Exclusive Discount One Way Ticket from Taoyuan (Two Tickets for the Price of One)

Are you finding more top things to do in Taipei: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Taiwan blog — The fullest Taiwan travel guide blog for a budget trip to Taiwan for the first-timers.

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A Solo Traveller's Guide to the World

10 Tips for Solo Travel in Taiwan

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Solo travel in Taiwan is incredible !

Taiwan is the perfect introduction to Asia. It is familiar yet unfamiliar. English is fairly widely spoken, and it is super safe. All these factors not only make Taiwan a great introduction to Asia but also a great introduction to solo travel!

Solo travel in Taiwan is super easy. Even if you’ve never travelled alone before, a solo trip to Taiwan is something most people can manage without feeling overwhelmed.

This post will tell you everything you need to know about solo travel in Taiwan, so you can plan the perfect Taiwan trip!

You won’t regret travelling alone in Taiwan!

PS- be sure to check out my post on everything you need to know about planning a solo trip!

Table of Contents

1. Taiwan is Safe at Night

One of the first things people Google when planning a solo trip anywhere is whether or not it is safe.

I don’t blame you. I do it too!

I’m very happy to report that Taiwans is very safe for solo travellers. It is safe during both the day and the night.

You don’t have to worry about any nighttime crimes, and you can freely walk around after dark with no worry.

Unless you’re an adult who is mildly afraid of the dark like I am.

How safe the country is is one of the most attractive aspects of solo travel in Taiwan.

You don’t have to worry about avoiding certain areas of town, major scams, or violent crimes.

Of course just like any country in the world there is the possibility of being in the wrong place at the wrong time and having something happen. Petty crimes like pick pocketing can happen in any country as well.

Just because Taiwan is safe for solo travellers doesn’t mean you get to drop your entire guard.

You still have to be aware that some petty crimes happen and to be smart about your actions.

But, overall, solo travel in Taiwan is very safe, and 99% of solo travellers in Taiwan don’t run into any problems.

2. Get Out and See More Than Taipei

One of the worst things you can do in any country you visit is just visit the capital city, and Taiwan is no exception!

Taipei is an amazing city, and I will admit it is my favourite city in Taiwan. But there is so much to see outside Taipei.

Taiwan has so many different sides, styles, and vibes to it.

The north is vastly different from the south, and it is worth visiting multiple cities!

You can travel from Taipei to Kaohsiung in less than 2 hours. You can easily visit the two major cities in Taiwan in one trip.

PS- don’t forget to read on my guides on where to stay in Taipei and Kaohsiung !

If you have two weeks, I highly recommend you visiting Hualien as well. It has some of the best hiking in the country!

Even if you don’t have much time in Taiwan, you should at a minimum take a day trip from Taipei. The top pick is without a doubt Jiufen.

A lot of blog posts make it seem difficult to travel from Taipei to Jiufen, but I promise it isn’t as daunting as it seems in writing. You can read my full guide on how to easily get to Jiufen here.

No matter what city outside Taipei you choose to visit, it’ll be a different experience to Taipei, and you’ll understand the country a bit better.

3. There is Wide Spread Wifi, but You Have to Jump Through Hoops

Taiwan has a nation wide public wifi network called iTaiwan.

It sounds great, but, in theory, it doesn’t work quite as well as you hope.

It can be a bit tricky to get connected to the iTaiwan network, and the most important thing you need to know is you have to create an account with the government before you arrive in Taiwan.

You can register your account online in advance here .

If you happen to show up in Taiwan without registering for an iTaiwan account before arriving, you can still register for an account. You have to go to a tourism office, show your passport, and create an account with an employee.

It is a bit annoying honestly.

Once you have an iTaiwan account, you can access free public wifi at nearly every public place in Taiwan!

It is pretty cool when it works well, and it is definitely worth the effort in setting up an iTaiwan account.

If you’re like me and travel a lot , you may want to look into investing in a Skyroam to solve all your internet woes while on the road. I bought mine in 2019 and am obsessed .

It is without a doubt one of the best travel purchases I’ve made!

You can read my full guide on wifi in Taipei here.

Please, please, please be internet safe!

Relying on public wifi is basically an essential part of travel, but it leaves you at risk of being hacked and having your personal data stolen.

Yes. Hotel wifi counts as public wifi even if it is password protected!

The last thing you need while on a Taiwan solo trip is for someone to get into your personal devices and steal your information. Especially if it is your banking information!

Trust me. I’ve had my fair share of dealing with banking issues while abroad.

The only way you can protect your online data and privacy when using public wifi is by installing a VPN on your phone, tablet, and laptop.

A VPN essentially puts a forcefield around your personal devices that keeps any and all prying eyes out!

It makes using public wifi as safe as using your home wifi where only you know the password!

I always say if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online information! The monthly cost of a VPN is less than a latte at Starbucks!

My favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of different VPNs over the years.

VPNs are notorious for slowing down your devices and making them painfully slow and frustrating to use. With most VPNs, I eventually give up using them because they slow things down so much I lose my patience.

The only VPN that doesn’t slow your devices to a painful level is NordVPN .

I started using NordVPN in 2019 and haven’t looked back since! It is the only VPN I haven’t cancelled after the first year!

The VPN is super quick compared to other VPNs, which is the biggest selling feature in my books!

You can connect up to six devices on one NordVPN subscription, so you can easily protect all your devices for one low fee!

Seriously! It is a no brainer. You need to keep yourself internet safe whenever you travel.

Oh. And one final (but amazing) feature is the ability to change your location, so it looks like you’re in a different country.

This allows you to access the Netflix library from that country, and you can unlock access to tons of shows and movies you can’t get in the country you’re in.

4. Easy to Get Around

One of the best parts about a Taiwan solo trip is that it is incredibly easy to get around Taiwan.

Whether you are travelling within a city or between cities, the Taiwan transportation system makes it a painless process!

Taipei and Kaohsiung have metro systems that cover the entire cities. Tainan and Taichung are in the process of constructing metro systems.

And every city in Taiwan no matter how small has a comprehensive bus system!

The country also has a world class high-speed rail system that zips you across the country 300km/hour.

You will be amazed at how easy solo travel in Taiwan becomes when you take advantage of all the transportation options!

And if you’re like me and are obsessed with walking, the cities are fairly walkable. Many tourist attractions are grouped in similar areas, so if you plan your days correctly, you won’t even need to rely on public transportation!

5. Cash is King

Cash dominates the market in Taiwan.

Lots of restaurants and convenience stores accept credit cards and debit cards, but if you buy any street food or shop at a street market, you need to have cash on hand.

This may seem like an odd tip to include in a post about solo travel in Taiwan, but it is a very important thing to know.

When you travel with someone else, they can bail you out and loan you cash if you’re in the situation where you don’t have enough cash to pay for something.

You don’t have that luxury when you’re travelling alone in Taiwan.

You are 100% responsible for having enough cash to pay for any cash-only purchases you make.

It just comes with the territory of solo travel.

I highly recommend you covert some of your local currency into New Taiwan Dollars before you leave your home country.

This gives you the security of knowing you have the ability to pay for anything that comes up before you can get to an ATM in Taiwan.

Plus you avoid the stress of searching for an ATM and risking it not accepting your foreign card or having a lot of fees.

Moral of the story: always have some cash in your wallet when you’re in Taiwan!

6. Google Maps Isn’t Always Accurate

95% of the time Google Maps works like a charm in Taiwan, but it is that 5% that makes you want to pull out your hair.

Google maps is great when you want to use the metro, catch a bus, or walk to a major sight.

The problem comes in when you try to use it to get to a lesser known night market or somewhere with alleys.

You can find yourself walking in circles for hours growing frustrated that Google Maps isn’t showing you the way.

Trust me. It took me two days and a lot of determination to find one specific clothing market in Kaohsiung!

A Taiwan solo trip can become a bit frustrating when your map doesn’t tell you where to go.

You have to rely on having a general idea of where to go, local street signs, and following that little blue dot hoping you keep getting closer to your destination.

This can be a little frustrating when you’re alone in Taiwan.

You don’t have someone to bounce ideas off of and are stuck with only yourself to figure out where to go.

Google Maps has your back most of the time but be prepared for the odd time it stabs you in the back and leaves you in the lurch.

Just please know the address of where you’re staying and have a solid idea on how to get back there in case Google Maps really does you dirty!

7. Inexpensive Compared to Rest of East Asia

Taiwan is in East Asia, which is the most expensive region in Asia.

Japan, Korea , and Hong Kong all have reputations for being expensive, and Taiwan breaks that mold.

The prices in Taiwan are very inexpensive compared to the rest of the region.

It is by no means as affordable as Southeast Asia, but you won’t break the bank in Taiwan either.

You can get a full meal at a street market for less than $10, transportation is $1-$2 per ride, and I didn’t pay more than $50 per night for mid-level hotels.

I have very surprised at how affordable Taiwan is. I came home with money to spare, and that is something that never happens when I travel!

The fact that Taiwan is inexpensive but still super modern and semi-Westernized is why I think Taiwan is the perfect introduction to Asia as a solo traveller.

8. Cafés Aren’t Very Common

This is without a doubt my least favourite part about solo travel in Taiwan!

I love hanging out in cafés and reading when I travel, and that simply isn’t a popular thing to do in Taiwan.

There are tons of places to grab tea, but most of them are window stores with no place to sit.

Honestly, I’ve never been to a country where I’ve seen fewer Starbucks than in Taiwan! Not that I like Starbucks, but it gives you a sense of how uncommon cafés are!

If you’re like me and relish the opportunity to relax, read, and unwind in a café when on a solo trip, Taiwan isn’t the place to do it.

Leave your book at the hotel because you likely won’t find a place to sit down and read it.

I know this isn’t a big issue for most people, but it was definitely a shock for me (and a disappointment if I’m honest).

9. Night Markets are Your Best Friend

Taiwan is known for its incredible food. In fact, the country is often touted as a foodie’s dream destination.

Every city in Taiwan has multiple night markets where you can try out a bunch of food and indulge.

Night markets are a big part of Taiwanese culture, so you don’t have to worry about them being too touristy and unauthentic.

Visiting night markets is one of the best things you can do while on a Taiwan solo trip.

A lot of solo travellers are nervous about eating at restaurants alone, and visiting night markets is the easiest way to eliminate that!

It is 100% street food, and you either sit at a table or eat while you walk.

Many locals visit night markets alone, and you won’t feel uncomfortable or weird wandering around a night market alone.

Not only are night markets the perfect solution to any qualms you have about eating alone, but they are also super affordable!

You can have a full meal for less than $10!

Night markets are a way of life in Taiwan, and you haven’t experienced Taiwan until you’ve been to at least a couple of night markets.

PS- be sure to read my post on everything you need to know about night markets in Kaohsiung!

10. Taiwanese People are Very Friendly

You will be blown away at how kind and friendly Taiwanese people are!

I arrived in Taipei and immediately went to Taipei Main Station to catch a train to Hualien. I stopped to look at the train departure board, and within seconds, an old man came up to ask if I needed help figuring out what platform my train was departing from. It was really sweet of him.

And that isn’t an isolated expereince!

People are always willing to help. Employees at museums are excited to tell you about the artifacts, street food vendors make sure you’re 100% happy with your meal, and hotel employees go above and beyond.

Sometimes when you’re travelling alone in a country it can feel a bit awkward if you need to ask for directions or help of any sort.

That isn’t the case in Taiwan!

If you need any sort of help or are lost, I can guarantee you won’t have to look far to find a local who is willing to help you out!

The Fear of Solo Travel

You are now prepared to embark on your solo trip to Taiwan!

You’re an expert in all things travelling Taiwan alone and can conquer your Taiwan solo trip like a boss!

There is absolutely nothing scary about taking a solo trip to Taiwan!

It is without a doubt on the friendliest countries in Asia for solo travellers.

Taiwan definitely isn’t an obvious choice for solo travel, but I guarantee you won’t regret booking a trip there!

The country is completely safe for solo travellers- including solo female travellers. It is affordable, unique, full of good food, and has an awesome vibe.

Taiwan is without a doubt one of the most underrated countries in Asia, but I don’t think it will be underrated for much longer.

So get there while it is still a hidden gem before it gets overrun with tourists!

And don’t forget to be internet safe and install a VPN on all your devices!

PS- be sure to check out my post on the dress code in Taiwan, so you don’t commit a fashion faux pas!

Related Posts

• 10 Practical Taiwan Travel Tips
• How to Travel from Taipei to Taichung (The Easy Way!)
• How to Travel from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei

2023 Taiwan travel guide：Help you plan your Taiwan solo travel

Last Updated on 12-30-2023

Taiwan is a little island nation with a big punch. Despite its small size of 36,193 square kilometers, it boasts a population of 23.9 million people.

Are you ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Taiwan, an East Asian treasure, has a rich history, vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery, and wonderful food. Taiwan has something for everyone, whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff. In this Taiwan travel guide, we’ll walk you through the top places, experiences, and advice for an unforgettable vacation to Taiwan in 2023, as well as assist you in planning your solo travel in Taiwan.

Why Taipei?

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Now you may ask, “Why Taipei?” As a foreigner coming to Taiwan for a solo trip, you may not know how to speak Mandarin. While Taiwan has many beautiful places, However, for travelers who are non-Chinese speakers, some of the more local places will be more difficult to explore. Therefore, areas like Taipei may be the best option for you for your first stop in Taiwan. It is super safe for both men and women, and moreover, English is fairly widely spoken there. Now let’s start with our recommended extended stay hotels for famous places.It boasts modern shopping malls, ancient temples, beautiful palaces, and night markets. Taipei is not only the political and economic center of Taiwan, but also the cultural hub of the island. There are plenty of attractions for visitors to eat, drink, and have fun.

Weather, festivals , and the operation hours of tourist sites must all be considered when deciding when to visit Taipei. In general, the fall months ( September to November ) and spring months ( March to May ) are regarded as the best periods to visit Taipei.

Autumn weather is pleasant with moderate temperatures, making it excellent for outdoor activities. During this time, Taipei’s bright blue skies and fresh air complement visits to sights such as Elephant Mountain and the Taipei 101 . Spring, on the other hand, is distinguished by the blossoming of flowers. Many parks and gardens organize flower-viewing activities, like as the cherry blossom season on Yangmingshan, which draw tourists to marvel at the magnificent floral displays.

Furthermore, the city’s festive festivities are important factors to consider when visiting Taipei. For example, one of Taipei’s most important traditional celebrations is the Lunar New Year, which is traditionally celebrated in January or February. Visitors may enjoy exciting events, shopping extravaganzas, and night market activities.

Before you pay a visit to Taipei, you must know about the weather in Taipei throughout the year.

Taipei has two airports, Taoyuan International Airport and Songshan Airport. Taoyuan International Airport is the main airport and the gateway to Taipei, while Songshan Airport serves mostly domestic flights and a few international flights. You can reach Taipei from many international cities, including Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, and more.

There are a wide range of accommodations available in Taipei to suit every budget and preference. From luxury hotels to budget hostels , you can find something that fits your needs. Some popular areas to stay in Taipei include Xinyi District, Zhongzheng District, and Daan District.

The mrhost provides a search tool to help users find the best hotel for their long stay in Taipei!

Taipei has a variety of monthly hotels and serviced apartments. There are several alternatives available, whether you choose a low-cost hotel, a hostel, or a more typical hotel or serviced apartment. Furthermore, Taipei is regarded as a secure city for lone female travelers and is recognized for its low rates, making it an ideal location for budget-conscious solo travelers.

The Denizen

The Denizen contemporary refuge for the modern traveler may be found in the nook of Da’an District. The Denizen redesigned the idea of live-work accommodation into studio spaces that encourage you to dive into the refined luxury of customized home living without sacrificing style, amenities, or personalized service.

Forte Green garden apartment

Forte Green Garden Apartment , located in the Songshan District, has various handy features like as a fitness center, free WiFi, and large rooms with flat-screen TVs. The Green Park Apartment (Business Residence), located in the center of the Dunhua financial area and minutes from the MRT, Zhongshan Expressway, and Songshan Airport, is a calm and lively atmosphere with spacious and comfortable bedrooms, providing you with a high-quality living space.

The transportation system in Taipei is efficient and easy to use. You can take the metro , buses, bike , or taxis to get around the city. The metro system is extensive, with lines that connect all parts of Taipei. To make transportation easier, Taiwan has a rechargeable smart card called the EasyCard . You can also rent a car to explore the city at your own pace.

1. Taipei 101

Taipei 101 is a landmark skyscraper in Taipei and was once the tallest building in the world. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the 89th floor.

2. National Palace Museum

National Palace Museum , one of the most popular museums in Taiwan. This museum is home to an extensive collection of ancient Chinese artifacts and artwork, including paintings, calligraphy, jade, and bronze. It’s a great place to learn about Chinese history and culture.

3. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Head to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall , a famous landmark in Taipei. The hall is dedicated to the former President of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-shek. You can watch the changing of the guard ceremony or climb to the top of the hall to enjoy a panoramic view of Taipei.

4. Longshan Temple

After that, visit the Longshan Temple , one of the oldest and most famous temples in Taipei. The temple was built in 1738 and is dedicated to various Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian deities. Take your time to explore the temple’s beautiful architecture and religious relics.

5. Ximending Shopping District

Finish your day by exploring the Ximending Shopping District, a popular pedestrian shopping area in Taipei. You can find everything from trendy clothes to traditional snacks and souvenirs. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Taipei’s modern culture.

1. Breakfast at Fu Hang Soy Milk

Start your day with breakfast at Fu Hang Soy Milk , a popular breakfast spot for locals and tourists alike. You can try their signature dish, the crispy scallion pancake, or their delicious soy milk.

2. Lunch at Din Tai Fung

Head to Din Tai Fung , a world-renowned restaurant that specializes in xiaolongbao, or steamed pork dumplings. The restaurant has branches all over the world, but the original store is in Taipei. You won’t regret trying these delicious dumplings.

• Monday to Friday 11:00 AM-8:30 PM
• Weekends 10:30 AM-8:30 PM
• Address: No. 194, Sec. 2, Xinyi Road, Daan District, Taipei City
• Nearby MRT station: 1 minute walk from Dongmen Station

3. Dinner at Maoyuan Restaurant

Maoyuan Restaurant is a well-known Taiwanese cuisine restaurant in Taipei with an almost 50-year history. It received great notice after getting the Bib Gourmand rating from the Taipei Michelin Guide in 2018. The restaurant, located near the Nanjing Fuxing MRT station, is famed for its traditional Taiwanese meals and has established itself as a culinary legend in Taiwan.

4. Night Market Tour

In the evening, go on a night market tour and taste some of Taipei’s best street food. You can visit popular night markets like Shilin Night Market, Raohe Street Night Market, and Ningxia Night Market. Try local favorites like stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and bubble tea.

Refer to our Taipei Night Markets article to learn about each of the most famous night markets in Taipei!

1. Yangmingshan National Park

Yangmingshan National Park , a mountain park with stunning natural scenery. You can hike the various trails, soak in the hot springs, and visit the flower clock and calla lily fields.

2. Elephant Mountain

Elephant Mountain, also known as Xiangshan , is a popular hiking trail in Taipei that offers stunning views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. It’s a great place to watch the sunset and take photos.

3. Beitou Hot Springs

Beitou Hot Springs is one of the most famous hot springs in Taiwan. You can relax in the various public and private hot spring baths, visit the Thermal Valley, or explore the hot spring museum.

4. Tamsui Old Street

Visiting Tamsui Old Street , a historic district with a scenic waterfront view. You can stroll through the old streets, enjoy local street food, and visit the Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf.

Some of the most popular souvenirs to buy in Taipei include pineapple cakes (鳳梨酥), oolong tea (烏龍茶), mini sky lanterns (小天燈), Taiwanese glove puppets (布袋戲偶), Chinese knots (中國結), Chinese paintings (國畫), oil paper umbrellas (油紙傘) and jade (玉). You can buy these souvenirs at many places in Taipei. Some of the most popular places include souvenir shops at tourist attractions such as Taipei 101 and Shilin Night Market. You can also find them at stores such as Chia Te Bakery (佳德糕餅), SunnyHills (微熱山丘), and Ten Ren Tea (天仁茗茶).

If you’re looking for something unique, you can visit a former factory and museum in Taipei dedicated to the art of traditional block printing3. You can also find anime figurines, manga, DVDs and CDs and posters at Taipei Main Station.

In addition to the above mentioned souvenirs, there are many other famous souvenirs from Taiwan that you should bring back to your hometown.

Travel to Taiwan’s largest city in the south: Kaohsiung

Let us tell you all about the fabulous city of Kaohsiung in Taiwan! It’s one of Taiwan’s top three cities, and boy, has it come a long way! From a humble settlement to a bustling metropolis with a whopping 12 districts, Kaohsiung is the place to be!

Kaohsiung was once a total rockstar in the industrial scene, boasting the world’s THIRD largest port. today, it’s not just about industries; Kaohsiung has reinvented itself with a trendy, modern vibe. Kaohsiung is a real player in the trade game too, thanks to its strategic location and the amazing Kaohsiung Port. It’s the beating heart of commerce.

Whether you’re into history, culture, or just looking for some epic adventures, Kaohsiung has it all.

From November to April is the best season to visit Kaohsiung, Taiwan, for perfect weather and a terrific vacation experience. The weather is most pleasant during these months, with moderate temperatures and less possibilities of precipitation. It’s the ideal time to see the city’s attractive attractions, such as Love River, Shoushan, and Sizihwan Bay, which will leave you speechless.

If you prefer milder weather, consider traveling in May, June, or July, but bear in mind that typhoons, also known as tropical cyclones, might occur in July. Due to excessive rainfall, August is the rainiest month and may not be the best time to come.

Consider traveling during the off-season, either during the winter or summer, to avoid crowds and get fantastic hotel discounts. The city provides a one-of-a-kind experience all year, so whether you visit during the lovely winter months or the warmer summer days, you’re in for a treat.

So, plan your trip to Kaohsiung carefully and you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable journey in this dynamic city! Travel safely.

Getting to Kaohsiung from other places is easy and convenient due to its well-connected transportation network. Travelers have various options to choose from:

• High-Speed Rail (HSR) : The Taiwan High-Speed Rail offers a quick and efficient way to travel between Taipei and Kaohsiung. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from Taipei Main Station to HSR Zuoying Station, located in northern Kaohsiung.
• Train: If you prefer a more affordable option, you can take a regular train from Taipei Main Station to Kaohsiung Main Station. The travel time is approximately 4.5 to 6 hours.
• Bus: Buses provide a cost-effective means of reaching Kaohsiung from Taipei. The travel time is around 5 to 6 hours, and you can catch the bus from Taipei Bus Station.
• Flight: For those coming from farther destinations or seeking a quicker option, flights are available from Taipei Songshan Airport or Taoyuan airport to Kaohsiung International Airport.

You can also refer to our 4 Simple Ways to Travel from Taipei to Kaohsiung article to know the best way to get to Kaohsiung from Taipei.

When planning a trip to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s southern harbor city, you’ll find a variety of great places to stay. Whether you prefer the artistic vibe of Pier-2, known for its revitalized warehouses and creative atmosphere, or the convenience of the Kaohsiung Railway Station area, with bustling commercial activity and various hotels, there’s something for everyone.

For those seeking a more relaxed coastal experience, the harbor district offers a delightful blend of urban conveniences and beachfront scenery. Moreover, the Sanduo and Wufu Shopping Districts are excellent choices for travelers who enjoy shopping, entertainment, and a modern cityscape, with plenty of hotels catering to different budgets. Make the most of your Kaohsiung adventure by selecting the accommodation that suits your preferences and offers easy access to the attractions you wish to explore. Enjoy your stay and discover the best of Kaohsiung’s vibrant culture, delicious food, and beautiful green spaces!

👉Read more: Where to Stay in Kaohsiung Taiwan

Silks Club in Kaohsiung is a pinnacle of luxury and artistry, a collaboration between Yu-Ming Construction and the Regent Group. With 147 executive-level rooms, the hotel redefines opulence, starting from a minimum room size of 18 ping. The focus on “Visual Creativity,” “Regionalism,” and “Architectural Space” creates an enchanting ambiance. The Michelin-starred UKAI-Tei restaurant offers a remarkable culinary experience, while the infinity pool provides a panoramic harbor view. Silks Club is a sophisticated oasis, epitomizing excellence in Kaohsiung’s hospitality scene, making it a must-visit for those seeking a refined and artistic travel experience.

SaYo Hotel is a stylish and comfortable accommodation located in the elegant historical district of Yanchengpu, Kaohsiung. With its focus on providing a homely atmosphere and impeccable service, Sa-Yo Hotel is an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel features 70 spacious rooms and offers leisure facilities, a children’s game room, Wii gaming console, meeting rooms, and self-service laundry. Guests can also enjoy complimentary coffee at the welcome coffee bar from 10 AM to 10 PM. The hotel’s convenient location near Yancheng Public Market and attractions like Pier-2 Art Center and Love River makes it an ideal base for exploring the city.

To explore the city like a local, you can utilize the well-developed mass transportation system, including the MRT (Metro) , LRT (Light Rail Transit) , and buses. The Kaohsiung Metro currently has two routes, the red line and orange line, meeting at Formosa Boulevard Station, and trains operate at intervals of 5 to 10 minutes. Smoking, eating, and drinking are strictly prohibited in stations and on trains to maintain a pleasant riding environment.

For a unique experience, consider taking the Kaohsiung sightseeing bus, a double-decker bus, to explore the city’s unique charms. You can also enjoy water recreation facilities in Kaohsiung.

To navigate the city conveniently, it’s recommended to get an iPass or EasyCard, Kaohsiung’s transportation cards, which can be used to pay for fares in buses, MRT, and ferry boats. Additionally, the city aims to increase the percentage of electric buses, promoting low-carbon and green transportation.

Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s vibrant port city, offers an array of exciting activities and attractions that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, a foodie, or an art admirer, Kaohsiung has something for everyone.

1. Explore Lotus Pond

Stroll around the picturesque Lotus Pond, known for its vibrant temples and scenic beauty. Admire the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, the Spring and Autumn Pavilions, and the Confucius Temple, which create a serene atmosphere.

2. Visit Pier 2 Art Center

Immerse yourself in Kaohsiung’s contemporary art scene at the Pier 2 Art Center . This creative hub showcases various art installations, galleries, and trendy cafes, making it a perfect spot for art enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike.

3. Take a Ferry to Cijin Island

Take a boat to Cijin Island for a taste of culture, history, and beautiful beaches. The Cihou Lighthouse and the seafood booths along the shore, which provide some of the freshest catches, should not be missed.

4. Marvel at the Dome of Light

Witness the stunning Dome of Light at Formosa Boulevard Station, one of the most magnificent metro stations in the world. With its elaborate glasswork, this stunning art piece will leave you speechless.

5. Enjoy Kaohsiung Sunset Cruise

Take a romantic sunset cruise, which provides spectacular views of the city’s cityscape as the sun sets over the horizon. Capture the gorgeous scene while learning about Kaohsiung Port’s history. If you are traveling with your family to Kaohsiung, you can check out 15 Best Things to Do with kids in Kaohsiung article for more tourist attractions for you and your family.

👉Read more: Kaohsiung’s Top Secret Attractions 2023: Sunset and Lakeside Forest

1. Ruifeng Night Market

Ruifeng Night Market , located in Kaohsiung’s Left Camp neighborhood, is a lively and dynamic night market that draws both residents and visitors. It has been a popular destination for more than two decades and provides a varied range of culinary, fashion, and entertainment options. There is a wonderful selection of tasty street cuisine to choose from. Okinawa crispy fried squid, Korean-style pancakes, Japanese teppanyaki, and a unique Taiwanese tea known as “店小二特濃鮮紅茶” are all must-tries. These scrumptious sweets can be enjoyed by visitors while browsing the market’s various stalls and sellers.

Ruifeng Night Market is open from 6:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It is strategically placed near the Kaohsiung Arena MRT Station, making public transit easy to use.

2. Liuhe Night Market

Liuhe Night Market , also known as Liuohe Tourist Night Market, is a renowned night market in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It offers a wide variety of delectable dishes and snacks, such as Zheng’s papaya milk and Ahma’s grilled rice cake. Visitors can shop for trendy fashion items and souvenirs while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. The market’s strategic location near the Kaohsiung MRT Formosa Boulevard Station makes it easily accessible. Operating from evening till early morning, Liuhe Night Market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts and shoppers alike, offering an unforgettable experience of Taiwanese street food and culture.

Besides the two night markets mentioned above, Kaohsiung has many other night markets with their own specialties, so check out our Kaohsiung Night Market Recommendations article to explore more of Kaohsiung’s local specialties.

3. Duck Zhen(鴨肉珍)

“ Duck Zhen ” is a duck meat speciality restaurant in Kaohsiung’s Yancheng District. With a 65-year history, this restaurant has become a traditional neighborhood favorite as well as an iconic street food hotspot in the area. “Duck Jane” is known for its tasty duck dishes, and its menu includes duck rice, duck noodles, duck winter melon soup, mixed offal with duck blood, and more. The duck rice with beautifully seasoned minced meat is the outstanding dish.

Notably, “Duck Jane” received a Michelin Guide endorsement in 2022, confirming its position in the culinary landscape. Locals and tourists alike travel to this business to sample its long-standing heritage of offering exquisite duck dishes, which has earned it a place in Kaohsiung’s culinary canon.

4. Bei Gang Tsai Rice Tube (Yancheng)

Kaohsiung Bei Gang Tsai Rice Tube is a popular snack restaurant in Kaohsiung’s Yancheng District. It was founded in 1956 and has almost 60 years of history. It is known as a must-try local delicacy. Long lines form outside the business at all hours of the day and night, demonstrating its popularity. The hallmark meals include tube rice cake and steamed egg soup, both of which are highly recommended and available at reasonable costs, giving clients outstanding value for money.

Bei Gang Tsai Rice Tube is not only well-known in Kaohsiung, but it has also achieved Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction, making it a symbol of Kaohsiung’s culinary scene. The shop, located beside the Love River in Yancheng District, serves unusual and excellent cuisine. Classics include the tube rice cake, steamed egg soup, and other delicacies such as the Flagfish Ring Soup.

1. Tardyhill Nature Park(漯底山自然公園)

Tardyhill Nature Park, also known as 漯底山 (Lào Dǐ Shān) or 凹底山 (Āo Dǐ Shān), is located in Kaohsiung’s Mituo District. This park has a large green area with woodland pathways. It was formerly an important military post during the Japanese colonial period. Climb up to the observation deck for sweeping views of Kaohsiung’s cityscape and shoreline. The park’s mudstone badland landscape is distinctive, and the park’s meandering pathways allow for observation of different natural biodiversity inside the wooded region. Within the park, there are also observation bridges, basketball courts, and a family play area.

2. Shoushan National Nature Park(壽山國家自然公園)

Shoushan National Nature Park is located in Kaohsiung’s Gushan District. It is a coral mountain on the city’s southern outskirts, near Sizihwan Bay. Shoushan, which has the most green space in Kaohsiung, is a popular natural attraction for locals. The park allows guests to get close to nature by delivering thrilling and natural activities. It is also popular among birdwatchers owing to the park’s rich biodiversity.

If I didn’t tell you, you wouldn’t know that Kaohsiung has many other secret attractions that you should explore!

1. Kaohsiung Bu-Er-Jia Bakery (不二緻果)

Kaohsiung Bu-Er-Jia Bakery (不二緻果) was founded in 1938, and the most well-known signature is the “Real Taro.” Two creamy layers of fresh taro cream mousse are sandwiched between three slices of sponge cake, creating a soft, rich, and sweet but not too sweet flavor. In addition to the “Real Taro,” Kaohsiung Bu-Er-Jia Bakery’s distinctive delights include mille-feuille and mung bean pastry.

2. JOY WELL CAKE SHOP (中外餅鋪)

Joy Well Cake Shop is a classic pastry shop that was founded in 1905; the area’s well-known “Chess Pastry” began here. The 32 pieces of delicious sweets that are generally seen on the chessboard are ideal companions for a good cup of tea. There’s also pineapple cake, yolk pastry, and date paste cake with walnuts.

3. Zhenfang Mullet Roe Experience Factory-Mullet Roe

The Zhenfang Mullet Roe Experience Factory is located in Kaohsiung’s Qianzhen District. It is one of Taiwan’s biggest mullet roe producers. Zhenfang Mullet Roe Experience Factory began almost fifty years ago as a modest business with only two ping of space. With exceptional manufacturing skills and a reputation for excellence, it rapidly evolved into a specialist mullet roe store. The plant, led by the second generation, clings to traditional production methods while also using contemporary professional procedures. Processing sections, a knowledge and culture zone, product areas, a presentation room, interactive zones, DIY schools, and a sunny glass drying area are all part of the facility.

Visitors may get a firsthand look at the mullet roe manufacturing process and history, as well as obtain professional information about mullet roe in an exciting way. This factory is the only themed narrative zone in the world centered on mullet roe, allowing visitors to participate in DIY mullet roe manufacturing and feel the fascination of historic traditional craftsmanship.

4. 志明花生糖 (Zhming Peanut Brittle)

志明花生糖 (Zhming Peanut Brittle) is a well-known local peanut brittle in Kaohsiung. It’s a typical snack that residents and visitors alike enjoy. Peanut brittle is a traditional and delectable memento.

Full List of Taiwan Monthly Hotel for 2024

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Exploring the Serenity of Fo Guang Shan: Taiwan’s Majestic Buddhist Monastery

10 Incredible Landmarks of Taiwan You Can’t Miss

Top 9 Theme Parks And Amusement Parks In Taiwan

10 of the Best hot springs in Taiwan

Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary as a Solo Female Traveller

How easy is it to travel to Taiwan as a solo female traveler? In this post, I’ll share with you my Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary and how I did it on free and easy. No group tours. No taxis. No engaged drivers. Just public buses, trains and my reliable pair of legs. I think that’s the best way to get to learn about a country and their way of life.

You can do it too because Taiwan has an excellent public transport system. Read on and I’ll share with you how easy and affordable solo traveling in Taiwan can be done, on free and easy.

Update Mar 2023 : This post was first published in May 2018 and updated to include latest-available information.

Why Travel Solo? 

“Why not?”

I know what you are thinking already.

“Did she suffer from a relationship problem? Was she trying to run away?”

Ah ha! Am I a psychic or what? My answer to the above is – You don’t need to be sad or single to travel solo. I was having some spare time on hand and my partner suggested that I travel more. I have to credit him for putting the ideas of solo traveling in my mind because that has given me additional travel options in life.  

As a positive consequence of the solo trip, I’m now very good in traveling solo (anywhere, anytime) even if the trip did not start off as a solo trip. For example, on some days or hours of a couple trip, I would venture off to places I’d wanted to see and he would too except that we would be visiting different places. 

This is especially useful when we have limited time in a country and different travel preference. For example, I like attraction A and he likes B but we only have 2 hours left for the day. We now have the option not to compromise, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. I definitely like having options in life, don’t you?

Stay safe when Solo Travelling

You can read more about my thoughts on traveling solo as well as some tips to stay safe as a solo female traveler.

One of the most important things about travelling solo is to have reliable internet connection as that allows you to do research on the go should things go awry. You can either book a 4G Sim Card or Pocket WiFi online and collect them at Taipei Taoyuan Airport.

I’ve used the latter in my latest 2019 Central Taiwan trip and highly recommend it.

>> RELATED: This Taiwan 4G Pocket WiFi gives strong signal even on a mountain top

Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary – Solo Trip

Here’s a summary of my Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary . You can click on the links to view my story on each experience (tips and logistics advice provided). Here we go!

Day 1 of Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary

On Day 1, I took an overnight flight and arrived at Taoyuan Airport early in the morning. I then boarded Kuo Kuang Bus 1819 that brought me to Taipei Main Station . You can choose to take an MRT instead to avoid the risk of getting stuck in road traffic. That’s especially useful if you have another train/bus to catch.

TIP : You can skip the queue and get a Taipei Airport Express Ticket online for a lower price (as at time of writing).

After checking into a hostel, located within 3 minutes walk from Taipei Main Station, I ventured out to 228 Peace Memorial Park (二二八和平公園) and spent some time playing with squirrels, admiring monuments and visiting Taipei 228 Memorial Hall (台北二二八紀念館).

I then bought EasyCard and took a train to Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall (國立中正紀念堂) where I witnessed a guard changing ceremony and learned the history of Taiwan.

TIP : If you plan to travel to many places, check out Taipei Transport Pass that provides unlimited travel. Alternatively, this Taiwan Fun Pass covers admission to popular attractions such as Taipei 101, in addition to offering unlimited rides on MRT and buses. 

My night activity was spent shopping in Q Square Mall (京站時尚廣場) and exploring Taipei Underground Mall , both of which were linked to Taipei Main Station.

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• Day 1 (Part 1): Getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station, then visit 228 Peace Memorial Park
• Day 1 (Part 2): Buy EasyCard in Taipei and explore Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall

Map Locations For Day 1 Taipei Itinerary

Taoyuan International Airport >> Kuo Kuang Bus or  MRT via Airport Terminal 1 >> Taipei Main Station >> 228 Peace Memorial Park >> Taipei Memorial Hall >> Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall

Day 2 of Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary

On Day 2, I took a combination of express train and bus to get to Jinguashi (金瓜石), a place with multiple mini-attractions centered around the theme of gold and copper mining. Some of the attractions I’ve visited include Crown Prince Chalet, Si Lian Dong, Museum of Gold, Benshan 5th Tunnel and Shinto Shrine.

Next, I took a shuttle bus to Golden Waterfall (黃金瀑布), snapped some photos and reversed back to Jiufen (九份).

Jiufen Old Street (九份老街) is one of the best old streets in Taiwan and I had a great time shopping, eating and exploring the unique street characterized by the presence of numerous stairways. I also visited Shengping Theatre (昇平戲院) and was intrigued and amused by some old-time movie posters. If you like to know how theatres built in the 1930s look like, you can pop by since it’s located within Jiufen Old Street.

DAY TOUR : For ease of mind on logistics planning, you can consider this day tour that brings you to many places in North Taiwan, such as Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Shifen and Golden Waterfall. 

I returned to Taipei and spent the night shopping in Ximending (西門町), a mall popular among young adults. Of course, I didn’t forget to indulge in the immensely popular Ah Chung Mee Sua (vermicelli with pork intestines) and bubble milk tea.

TIP : It’s cheaper when you buy a voucher online to redeem for Ah Chung Mee Sua. Here’s how to reach Ah Chung Mee Sua store ( see map ).

• Day 2 (Part 1): So many mini-attractions within Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park
• Day 2 (Part 2): Venture to Golden Water Fall, Jiufen Old Street and Ximending

Map Locations For Day 2 Taiwan Itinerary

Taipei Main Station >> Jinguashi >> Golden Waterfall >> Jiufen Old Street >> Shenping Theatre >> Ximending >> Ah Chung Mee Sua

Day 3 of Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary

Day 3 was dedicated to the southeastern portion of the Taiwan MRT line. I took a combination of train and gondola to reach Maokong (貓空), a scenic mountaintop popular for its tea houses. I also made a new Taiwanese friend when hiking along Camphor Tree Trail . 

TIP: You can book this Maokong Gondola & Taipei Zoo combo ticket at a very affordable price. 

A decision to accompany my new friend to her destination led me to Zhangshan Temple (樟山寺), which to my pleasant surprise, offered an amazing panoramic view of Taiwan.

I struck one item off my bucket list when enjoying a tea appreciation session at a teahouse that overlooked the mountain. Thereafter, I took the gondola down to Taipei Zoo and explored the largest zoo in Asia.

A short bus trip then brought me to Shenkeng Old Street (深坑老街) where I had my dinner. This street is popular for all-things tofu (beancurd), be it tofu ice cream or smelly tofu.

• Day 3 (Part 1): Struck off bucket list at Maokong
• Day 3 (Part 2): Taipei Zoo and Shenkeng Old Street

Map Locations For Day 3 Taiwan Itinerary

Taipei Main Station >> Maokong Gondola >> Camphor Tree Trail >> Zhangshan Temple >> Tea Appreciation & Lunch >> Taipei Zoo >> Shenkeng Old Street

Day 4 of Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary

I woke up early, took MRT to Danshui and bought a one-day hop-on/hop-off shuttle bus to explore the northern coast of Taiwan. Out of the 13 stops, I chose to alight at Shimen Wedding Plaza , Shimen Arch , Jinshan Old Street and Yehliu Geo Park  (野柳地質公園).

TIP : If you already hold the Taipei Transport Pass or Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass , it will cover the rides on 5 tourist shuttle routes, including this northern coast route. 

By late afternoon, I was done with Yehliu and took a bus to the port city of Keelung (基隆市). Miaokou Night Market (基隆廟口夜市) was within walking distance from where I alighted and I thought it was one of the best night markets in Taiwan. It was bustling and so full of life! Seafood was the specialty in this night market.

Travel Option : If you prefer not to navigate public transport in Taiwan and love a guided tour, this day tour brings you to Yehliu and Keelung .

• Day 4 (Part 1): Taiwan North Coast Shuttle Bus to Shimen Wedding Plaza, Shimen Arch & Jinshan Old Street
• Day 4 (Part 2): A free and easy trip to Yehliu, Keelung & Miaokou Night Market

Map Locations For Day 4 Taiwan Itinerary

Shimen Wedding Plaza >> Shimen Arch >> Jinshan Old Street >> Yehliu Geo Park >> Keelung >> Miaokou Night Market

Day 5 of Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary

I checked out of my humble hostel in Taipei and moved to an Airbnb unit located next to Houshanpi train station . 

After checking-in to the Airbnb, I walked to nearby Wufenpu (五分埔商圈) and unleashed my inner shopping monster. Wufenpu is a popular wholesale market selling apparels at dirt-cheap prices. There were uncountable mini-shops located along several alleys and took me hours to explore.

Raohe Night Market (饒河夜市) was just a short walk from Wufenpu. This is one of my favorite night markets in Taiwan and I highly recommend it to everyone. Great variety, and good food!

• Day 5: Shop first, eat Later at Wufenpu and Raohe Night Market

Map Locations For Day 5 Taipei Itinerary

Houshanpi Train Station >> Check in Airbnb >> Wufenpu Shopping District >> Raohe Night Market

Day 6 of Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary

I idled till noon before taking a short train ride to Taipei City Hall. From there, I walked to Songshan Cultural & Creative Park (松山文創園區) where I had my lunch at Eslite Spectrum Mall , explored a few galleries and strolled along a quaint Baroque Garden and Eco-pond.

Next up was to hike up Xiangshan (象山). The view up there was beyond expectation. Superb! And it was only a 15-minute hike (one-way).

TIP : Another way for a splendid view is to get on top of Taipei 101. You can enjoy discounted rates when you book your Taipei 101 ticket online . And if you already hold the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass , then you don’t have to worry about admission or transport fees to get to this iconic building in Taipei. 

After the hike, I traveled to Tonghua (Linjiang) Night Market (臨江街夜市) in search for dinner, but was surprised at how quiet the street was. So I made a trip back to Raohe Night Market (饒河夜市) and was glad to try out new things I didn’t have the (stomach) space for the other night. 

• Day 6: Songshan Cultural Park, Xiangshan, Tonghua, Raohe Night Market
• Solo Travelling for the first time: Why you should do it too

Map Locations For Day 6 Taipei Itinerary

Songshan Cultural & Creative Park >> Eslite Spectrum Mall >> Xiangshan Mountain >> Tonghua (Linjiang St) Night Market >> Raohe Night Market

Day 7 of Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary

Nearing the end of the trip, Day 7 was dedicated to shopping and more shopping. It was the right time to load up on stuff to bring back to Singapore. Taiwan is known for her confectionery products (e.g. Sun Biscuit, Mochi)  which typically have short expiry. So it’s better to buy them towards the end of the trip. 

I positioned myself at Taipei City Hall Shopping District . There were so many malls in the area, many of which were interconnected, e.g. Hankyu, Shinkong Mitsukoshi (新光三越), Breeze and Eslite Store. You can check out the things I bought from Taiwan .

After first round of shopping, I returned to my Airbnb apartment to offload my loots before venturing out to Wufenpu again to comb through the alleys I didn’t manage to cover the previous day. I had my dinner for the third consecutive night at Raohe Night Market (饒河夜市) and was surprised to see a much lighter crowd that day. Many stores were already closed by the time I arrived. Perhaps, this is a “weekday” effect.

• Day 7: Taipei City Hall Shopping District, Wufen Pu and Raohe Night Market
• Download Free Taiwan ‘Must-Buy’ Checklist

Map Locations For Day 7 Taipei Itinerary

Taipei City Hall Shopping District >> Wufenpu Shopping District >>  Raohe Night Market 

Day 8 of Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary

Day 8 was departure day. I checked out of my Airbnb apartment, stored my luggage at Taipei Main Station and continued shopping .

There were numerous malls such as Shinkong Mitsukoshi, WutuAkiba, Q Square Mall and numerous independent stand-alone outlets located opposite Taipei Main Station . You won’t have a dull time here.

When the time was right, I walked to Taipei West Bus Station and took Kuo Kuang bus to Taoyuan Airport . Another method to get to the airport is to take the MRT. An Airport Express train ride ( vew price ) would get you there in about 40 minutes. 

At Taoyuan airport, I enjoyed a delicious Hakka meal at the well-patronized food court before boarding a plane home to Singapore . 

• Day 8: Easiest way to get from Taipei Main Station to Taoyuan Airport
• Download Printable Travel Packing Checklist

Map Locations For Day 8 Taipei Itinerary

Shop around Taipei Main Station >> Take Bus to Airport (Taipei West Bus Station) or Take MRT to Airport (Taipei Main Station) >> Taoyuan International Airport

What’s Next – Budget for Solo Travelling in Taiwan

So, that’s it! This completes my Taiwan 8 Days Itinerary as a solo female traveler. 

Now, this solo trip was my second visit to Taiwan and therefore places that I’d visited before were excluded. This include Beitou Hot Springs, Danshui, Fort San Damingo, Yangmingshan, National Palace Museum, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall, Shilin Night Market and Longshan Temple.

TIP : Love hot spring and scenic mountain? Check out Beitou and Yangmingshan one-day tour .

I’ve since visited Taiwan for the third (Eastern Taiwan) and fourth time (Central Taiwan) . Check them out to get more ideas on the places to visit in Taiwan. 

Before you leave, don’t forget to click the button below to subscribe if you like to receive more of such beauty and travel posts. See you soon!

(This post was first published in May 2018 and updated to include latest-available information.)

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no cost to you. Read m y  full disclosure for more info.

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Taiwan Solo Travel: 10 Tips for An Unforgettable Experience

• August 17, 2023
• Travel Tips

The Taiwan solo travel experience is so thrilling, it’s definitely one for the books! 

I mean, with the captivating blend of traditional culture, modern marvels, and breathtaking landscapes, you won’t just be raving on about your experience, you may end up making it a recurring routine. 

I’m almost certain that a “Taiwan solo travel summer” may very become one of your most esteemed yearly traditions. What’s not to love about Taiwan? 

Officially the Republic of China (ROC), Taiwan is an East Asian country seated where the East and South China Seas meet the Pacific Ocean. It shares borders with the People’s Republic of China to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south. 

Taiwan is a captivating island nation with a remarkable fusion of vibrant cities, serene countryside, and picturesque coastlines. 

Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Taipei, gazing in awe at the dramatic Taroko Gorge, or immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of Sun Moon Lake , Taiwan offers an incredible range of experiences for solo travelers.

And while we have mentioned a couple of places,  one major reason to visit Taiwan (even if you want to ignore the bustling street life and the majestic mountains — which you shouldn’t) is the sense of exploration and discovery that permeates every corner of the country.

But figuring out how to travel solo in Taiwan may not be the easiest thing to do, especially if you are new to solo traveling, check out our solo travel tips blog post. 

In this post, we’ll give you ten tips to make your Taiwan solo travel as memorable as possible. From navigating public transportation to savoring local delicacies, we’ve got you covered with insights that will help you make the most of your adventure.

And like we always do at Tourist Lookup , we’ll take you on an adventure before your adventure. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore Taiwan. 

Table of contents

10 Tips for an Unforgettable Taiwan Solo Travel Experience

Tip 1: embrace the night markets..

If you’re in for the best Taiwan solo travel, you must channel your inner Batman and embrace the night. In Taiwan, when the sun sets, that’s when Taiwan truly comes alive. And as the night comes alive, the night markets remain the heartbeat of Taiwan. 

The night markets are a symphony of colors, scents, and sounds. And for the best nighttime, your Taiwan solo travel itinerary should start from Taipei. It has the most night markets.

From bustling Shilin to vibrant Raohe , these markets offer a sensory overload of local delicacies, unique souvenirs, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.

And have you really embraced the night market if you didn’t try Xiaochi ?

Tip 2. Master Public Transportation .

Now knowing how to use the buses and the trains properly will take your Taiwan solo travel to another level.

Taiwan’s public transportation system is a marvel. The efficient and extensive network of trains, buses, and the iconic Taipei Metro makes navigating the island a breeze. 

They have a well-organized network of small shuttle buses that operate efficiently, linking significant and lesser-known tourist spots across 20 cities, counties, and even three offshore islands.

From high-speed rails to the charter bus system to mass rapid transit vehicles to city buses to public vehicles, all your movement needs are catered for. As much as you may think renting a car is a nice Idea, for the best solo trip experience, hop on the train! 

Tip 3. Wander Through Temple Complexes .

There are a lot of Temples in Taiwan, with about fifteen official temples in Tapei alone. Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage is often showcased in its intricate temple complexes. 

While there is nothing like the “best temple,” the Baoan Temple , Taipei, is one of the most interesting ones in Taipei. 

You also have temples like the Chung Tai Chan Monastery and the Confucius Temple, Tainan. The Longshan Temple in Taipei and the historic temples of Tainan are also interesting places to explore. 

Engage with locals, witness age-old rituals, and marvel at the stunning architecture that bridges the past and the present to take your Taiwan solo travel up a notch. 

Tip 4. Go Out, Taiwanese people are friendly. 

One thing that is sure to make your Taiwan solo trip memorable is connecting with the locals. 

Taiwanese people are known for their warmth and hospitality . Engage in conversations, strike up friendships, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from the locals. Their insights will take you off the beaten path and unveil hidden gems.

Also, since Google Maps is not always accurate when trying to locate some of the less-known spots, asking for directions will save you hours of walking around in circles looking for a never-emerging night market. 

Tip 5. Savor Local Cuisine .

You can’t mention how to solo travel in Taiwan without mentioning its food. From the savory oyster omelets to the mouthwatering beef noodle soup, indulging in Taiwanese street food is a journey in itself. 

If you’re in Taipei, you should visit Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodles . They have only one thing on their menu, a thin wheat-flour noodle called “ Mee Sua ” served with braised pork intestine. But it doesn’t just have to be in Ay-Chung, or even Taipei, for that matter. 

From Mosun Teppanyaki in Da’an to A Point Steak & Ba r in Xinyi to W XYZ Bar in Zhongshan, let your taste buds lead you to hidden food stalls and hole-in-the-wall eateries for a true culinary adventure.

Tip 6. Immerse in Cultural Festivals .

Your Taiwan solo travel itinerary is not complete without stops at a cultural festival, or maybe ten! 

Taiwan’s calendar is dotted with vibrant festivals that celebrate its traditions and diversity. From the spirited lantern festivals to the elaborate Dragon Boat Festival , joining in these celebrations allows you to connect with the local community and witness their authentic customs.

Most times, when people remember their times in Taiwan, these festivals stand out the most! 

Tip 7. Seek Tranquility in Nature.

As much as Taiwan solo travel can be all about exploring the bustling cities and the mesmerizing modern buildings with lights and attractions, you should carve out time to explore the beautiful country’s natural views. 

From the mesmerizing Sun Moon Lake to the dramatic Alishan National Scenic Area to the stunning Kenting National Park , you’ll have time to relax and take in a natural beauty that will make your Taiwan solo trip feel relaxing, as much as it is adventurous. 

The Kenting National Park also offers opportunities for hiking and exploring if sitting is too relaxing for you. 

Tip 8. Carry enough Cash .

In Taiwan, cash holds the crown when it comes to transactions. While many eateries and stores do take cards, keep in mind that when you’re indulging in street food or exploring local markets, having cash is essential.

This nugget of advice might seem peculiar in a solo travel guide for Taiwan, but it’s a crucial insight to grasp. When journeying with a companion, there’s often a safety net if you fall short on cash.

However, on your Tawain solo trip, the responsibility rests entirely on your shoulders to have enough cash for any cash-only expenditures.

The best practice is to convert some of your home currency into New Taiwan Dollars before your departure, and always tuck some cash in your wallet when you’re navigating the streets of Taiwan!

Tip 9. Explore Beyond Taipei .

If everything on your Taiwan solo travel itinerary is Taipei, then you’re not really exploring Taiwan, are you? It’s a common mistake when traveling to a country to confine yourself to its capital city, but doing that is like just eating the peanut butter in a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. 

While Taipei shines as an incredible city (and it’s one of my personal favorites in Taiwan), there’s a wealth of experiences outside its bounds waiting to be discovered. Hualien , for instance, is a great place to visit as it boasts some of the nation’s most splendid hiking trails.

Also, Kaohsiung is about two hours away from Taipei, so you can easily explore the two major cities in a single journey.

Taking a Taipei-to-Jiufen trek is another adventure leading you into the city of Jiufen. But no matter the town outside Taipei that beckons you, each holds a distinct essence, offering an enriching perspective on Taiwan beyond its capital.

Tip 10. Embrace the Unexpected.

After all, the best answer to “How to solo travel in Taiwan” is “ embrace the unexpected .” 

As you navigate Taiwan on your solo adventure, be open to trying new things, exploring uncharted territories, and letting the island’s charm surprise you at every turn.

From chasing the views by hiking the trails of Taroko Gorge or riding the Maokong Gondola for panoramic city vistas to delving into history by visiting the National Palace Museum to trace the Islands, adventure is at every turn if you are open to it. 

Conclusion.

Armed with these ten tips and your adventurous spirit, you’re all set for an unforgettable Taiwan solo travel experience. 

One major thing about Taiwan is the warm and welcoming nature of its people. From the moment you set foot in this mesmerizing land, you’ll be greeted with genuine smiles and open arms, so take advantage of that. 

The locals are eager to share their culture, traditions, and delectable cuisine, ensuring that your solo adventure is as enriching and as enjoyable as possible. 

Is Taiwan solo travel-friendly?

Curious if Taiwan is suitable for solo travelers? Yes, Taiwan has various spots you can enjoy on a solo trip, like Sun moon lake, Taroko Gorge, and many others. It is also very safe, and with its efficient transportation system, moving around is a breeze. 

Which Country Is the best for solo travel? 

Wondering which country is ideal for solo explorations apart from Taiwan? Belgium is another great place to travel solo. Check out all you need to know about solo travel in Belgium and keep your solo travel streak going. 

Is it hard to travel around Taiwan?

Concerned about the ease of getting around Taiwan? No, Taiwan has a very excellent public transportation system that makes movement very easy and comfortable. Whether you’re on a train or a bus, movement is very easy and intuitive. 

Is Taiwan nice to foreigners?

Interested to know if Taiwan welcomes foreign visitors warmly? Yes, the Taiwanese are known to be welcoming to tourists and are generally very friendly people.  

Is Taiwan safe for solo female travelers?

Thinking about safety for female solo travelers in Taiwan? Yes, Taiwan is safe for female and male solo travelers, with no reports of crime against tourists.

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How I Traveled Solo in Taiwan for 5 Days with 15k All-IN Budget + Itinerary

I traveled solo to Taiwan for 5 days with a budget of Php 15,000 ($293 USD) ALL-IN . Y es, you read that right! ALL-IN, including airfare, food, and accommodation . So if you are a first-time international traveler, Taiwan is actually perfect for you. The country has a top-notch metro system that is easy and convenient even for non-Chinese speaking travelers.

Though it is small, Taiwan is home to beautiful nature parks, hiking trails, incredibly cheap yet amazing food, bustling night markets, and architectural landmarks that will wow you. Taiwan is Currently Visa-Free for Filipinos They recently just extended it until July 2020. Yet, another reason why you should add this to your travel bucket list!

Table of Contents

When to Visit Taiwan

You’ll want to avoid the Typhoon season during June-October. Summer season June-August can be crazy hot and humid just like Manila! January-February is mostly peak season where accommodations and fares are more expensive due to the Chinese New Year. So you must also try to avoid that.

According to my research, the best time to travel in Taiwan is during Fall or Spring Season (November-April). December is also okay due to the cooler temperature.

How to Get to Taiwan

Fortunately, I was lucky to find a Php 4,000 round-trip ticket (Manila to Taipei & Taipei to Manila) from Cebu Pacific . I booked it roughly a month before my trip. Make sure to include travel insurance from Travelsure which only costs around P298 pesos!

During my travels, I find it cheaper when you book at least a month before your scheduled trip. And the best prices are around 3 months before the trip!

I would suggest preparing at least Php 4,000 – Php 6,000 pesos for your airfare to Taiwan.

Book Flight Tickets From Manila to Taipei Here

Where to Stay in Taiwan

I find it easier to go to places when you are staying in any nearby MRT stations. You’ll be able to go anywhere to the airport and all the tourist spots around Taiwan. Choose a location near Taipei Main Station or Ximen Station .

I booked a 1 bedroom with shared bathroom through AirBnB and it cost me Php 3600 for a 5-day stay in Datong District which is 8-minutes away from Taipei Main Station. I find AirBnB accommodations a lot cheaper (Get a Php 2000 discount from AirBnb here !). However, booking through Agoda or Booking.com is also a good option to find affordable accommodation.

Affordable hotels in Taipei costs around Php 1,000-Php 3,000 per night. Hostels can be as cheap as Php 500 – Php 1,500 per night . If you are going for an affordable option prepare at least Php 3,000 – Php 6,000 for your accommodation.

Taiwan Currency and Exchange

Taiwan’s currency is called New Taipei Dollar (NTD) . The exchange rate of 1 NTD to PHP is  Php 1.65 .

Exchange your money through the airport or banks to get better rates. During weekends, the banks are closed and the exchange rate outside the airport is more expensive. You may also withdraw through ATMs scattered across Taiwan but you may get charged for each transaction. If you are bringing a credit card, make sure to also inform your bank that you will be traveling abroad to avoid any issue.

Taiwan Must-Haves for Traveling

I booked through KLOOK  so I can have an easy and hassle-free experience during my travels.

Pocket Wifi or 4G Sim

One of the most important things that you’ll need in Taiwan is an internet connection. It will help you navigate through places, upload pictures in social media and help you stay connected with your friends and family.

Alternatively, you can get a sim card with a 3-day, 5-day or 7-day plan. The internet connection is surprisingly fast and efficient so you won’t have to worry about anything.

Taipei EasyCard

I highly recommend getting the EasyCard here in Taiwan. This small card enables you to hop-on and off on buses, MRT stations, taxi cabs, you-bikes, convenience stores and paying for entrance fees in tourist spots in Taiwan. Just top it off with money in any convenience store and you are ready to go.

I would suggest putting at least 600 NTD in your easycard. It should be enough getting to places for 5 days in Taiwan.

How to Get Around Taiwan

Taiwan’s mrt.

Taiwan’s MRT system is one of the best, cleanest, fastest, and most efficient train system that I’ve ever seen. It is fairly easy to navigate through places as the signs have English translations. You can get almost anywhere in Taiwan using their MRT. Make sure to get your Easycard for a hassle-free ride so you no longer have to get tickets every time and also I notice whenever I use the EasyCard, I get around 10% discounts.

If you are coming from Taoyuan International Airport before 11 pm, you can walk through the Airport MRT, ride and arrive at any station like Taipei Main Station or Ximen Station. It costs around 160 NTD or Php 263 from the Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station and vice versa. No need for a private car transfer from the airport or taxi cabs to your hotel!

Their MRT also has lockers to store your belongings. It only costs around 50 NTD for 3 hours. I found it very useful after checking out of my Airbnb room and still have plenty of time before my flight. I just stored my luggage, kept the passcode and walk off.

Yellow Taxi Cab

Surprisingly, taxi cabs are not that expensive. They are everywhere so it will be easy to find them and get a ride. They will usually stop by you if the drivers feel that you need a ride. The taxi cabs are metered, the fare starts around 70 NTD or P115.

Tip: Make sure to have the Chinese translations of the places you want to go to since not everyone can speak English.

Hop-on and Hop-Off Bus

Double-decker hop-on and hop-off buses frequently roam the road. It is really easy to spot one on stations and ride. You just need the passes. a 4-hour pass is 470 NTD or Php 445 and a 24-hour pass is 540 NTD or Php 889 .

You-bikes are scattered around the city. It’s pretty easy to find them anywhere. You will need a Taiwanese sim card and an EasyCard in order to use a you-bike. Here is a detailed guide on how to use You Bikes .

It costs around 5 NTD or Php 8.23 for a 30-minute ride and an 8-hour rental is around 40 NTD or Php 65.86 . It is a pretty cheap, fun and exciting way to explore the city.

Taiwan Must-See Places

Day 1 and 2 – tour around the city.

I did a DIY tour around the city and so can you. You can easily go to these places through MRT stations. Most of the stations are named after the tourist spots like the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial, Taipei 101 and Shilin. But if you don’t feel confident, you can book a FREE WALKING TOUR from Klook. It is completely free but you’ll just have to give a tip the tour guide.

• Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial
• National Palace Museum ( Entrance Fee: 350 NTD or Php 576 )

• Taipei 101 ( Entrance Fee: 600 NTD or Php 98 7)
• Taipei Zoo ( Entrance Fee: 60 NTD or Php 98 )
• Maokong Gondola ( Fare: 1 stop 70 NTD or Php 115 , 2 Stops 100 NTD or Php 164 , 3 Stops 120 NTD or Php 197 )
• Elephant Mountain

• Ximending Shopping District
• Shilin Night Market
• Ningxia Night Market

Day 2 and 3 – Northern Coast Tour

Since the Northern Coast is not in the city, I decided to join a day tour from KKDAY . It covers Yehliu Geopark, Shifen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall, and Jiufen Old Street. The tour only cost Php 845 or 520 NTD or 16.55 USD . However, it does not cover all the entrance fees and food. Only the roundtrip transfers and tour guide.

• Yehliu Geopark ( Entrance Fee: 80 NTD or Php 130 )
• Shifen Old Street

In Shifen, you can write on your own sky lantern. A single-colored lantern costs 150 NTD or Php 246 and a multi-colored one is  200 NTD or Php 329.

• Shifen Waterfall ( Entrance Fee: 80 NTD or Php 131 )

• Jiufen Old Street

Our tour guide Amy was very active, funny, attentive and very helpful. She will tell you about the history and culture of each place, she will also guide you on the best places to eat, must-try foods and where you can buy the cheapest souvenirs.

You can also book a Northern Coast Tour from Klook.

Day 4 and 5 – The Colorful Taichung

From Taipei Main Station, you can ride by TRA and it cost about 241 NTD for standard and 375 NTD for Express. The journey will take about 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours. You can also take the High-Speed Rail which is more expensive. 670-750 NTD for Standard to 965-1060 NTD for Business Class.

• Wuling Farm ( Entrance Fee: 130 NTD or Php 214 )
• Zhongshe Flower Garden ( Entrance Fee: 120 NTD or Php 197 )
• Rainbow Village

Summary and Breakdown of Expenses

Php 4,000 – P6,000

Transportations

600 NTD or Php 987

Accommodation

Php 3,000 – Php 6,000

Food in Taiwan is extremely affordable. Here is a guide of must-try foods in Taiwan . A meal for one person can cost about 100 NTD / Php 164 – 200 NTD / Php 329. Depending on how thrifty or how hungry you are, you might spend about 300 NTD / P439 to 600 NTD / Php 969 per day or even less!

Prepare at least Php 2,000-Php 2,500 for food in 5 days.

Activities and Entrance Fees

Here is a detailed guide on what kind of souvenirs and snacks you can bring back from Taiwan. An estimated budget of P1,000-2,500 should be enough to bring to your family and friends.

I actually spent around Php 14,800 during my 5-day stay in Taiwan. If you follow my guide and expenses breakdown, this should cost you about Php 12,500 to Php 18,500. It all depends on how you are going to manage your finances. But a Php 15,000 all-in budget to Taiwan? Definitely doable!

Taiwan Adventures | Solo Travel | The Geekly Gal Vlog

4 responses to “How I Traveled Solo in Taiwan for 5 Days with 15k All-IN Budget + Itinerary”

Wow! That looked like one great trip! Not to mention, affordable. I’m sure to save up for one of my next travels. Will consider Taiwan. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks for sharing your experience. One day, with my family, we will achieve our travel goals. Do you have an estimate also if family of 5 to 6 ang magvi-visit?

Fast estimation for 5-6 family in Taipei around 30-40k budget for accomodations, food and tours. I am going to post a Bangkok Travel soon and I’ll be traveling with my family! I’ll list down the cost and everything.

Hoping to go to Taiwan soon with my family, but I am worried that we can’t push through with the budget that we have. Thanks for your post, I got ideas that we can use for our trip!

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Taipei Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Taipei , Taiwan? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• The national capital of the Republic of China (Taiwan), with a population of ~ 2.7 million .
• The financial, cultural and administrative centre of the island.
• First settled in 1709, Taipei was taken over by Japan following the defeat of the Qing Empire in the Sino-Japanese war of 1895. It was taken back by the Republic of China in 1945, after the Japanese surrender in World War II. Officially made capital of the ROC in 1949 .
• The second richest city per capita in Asia.
• Nickname: City of Azaleas, City of Smiles

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD).
• Spoken languages: Mandarin and Taiwanese Hokkien .
• Best time to visit: from  September to January (typically dry and temperate, and most suitable for exploring the city and its surroundings).
• Arriving via airport: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) links to the city centre by THSR or Taiwan High-Speed Railway and by Express Bus . Taxis cost NT$1000-$1200.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers in Taipei: Meander 1948 . Just a 2 minute walk from Taipei Main Station, this is a very clean and comfortable hostel. Great facilities, friendly staff, and good value too – overall a perfect place from which to explore the city. Complimentary breakfast. Book ahead to reserve a spot!
• Xinyi is the business and entertainment district of Taipei, with a trend-setting and cosmopolitan vibe. The neighborhood is also a prime location for dining and sleeping options.
• Zhongzhen  provides easy access to transportation and cultural attractions, and is home to the national government buildings and botanical gardens.
• Datong is also highly recommended – the district was one of the first settlements of the city, and contains interesting markets and temples.

GETTING AROUND

• EasyCard is a smart card used for payment on the Taipei MRT (Metro), buses and other forms of transportation as well as for transactions in convenience stores and supermarkets. Fares are deducted based on distance. Using the card gives you 20% discount on regular tickets.
• Taipei MRT runs 7 lines across major points in the city. Travel is fast and efficient thanks to punctual service. Fares are based on distance, and a day pass for unlimited travel costs NT$150.
• Public buses serve a wide network of routes and bear their destination on the front. Fares start at NT$15 for rides within the city centre.
• Taxis are yellow and run on meter. Try to have the name of your destination written in Mandarin before boarding. Starting fare is NT$70 for the first 1.25 km, with NT$5 for each successive 250 meters. There is an additional NT$5 charge for every 100 seconds at less than 5km/h, and a supplement of NT$20 for night-time travel. Call 405-88888.

TAIPEI NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 18 ,   and last call   is at 5 AM .
• Shida Road and in particular National Taiwan University has the most relaxed stretch of bars and cafes. Very popular with the student crowd.
• Xinyi offers upscale nightclubs with modern décor, extensive drink lists and DJ sets.
• Anho Road is home to Taipei’s most beloved pubs, active any night of the week.
• Great bars to start your night: Revolver (live music), Ounce Taipei (cocktails), ON TAP (sports Bbar), Aye Taipei, The Brass Monkey, and Sappho (live jazz).
• Looking for clubs/dancing ? Head to Omni ($$$$), Taboo, or Triangle.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• National Palace Museum houses an extraordinary collection of Chinese artifacts.
• Taipei 101 claimed the title of world’s tallest building until 2010, and continues to be an icon of Taiwan’s economic rise.
• Mengjia Longshan Temple was built by Fujian Chinese settlers, who used it as a place of worship and gathering.
• National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine honors the war victims. The traditional ceremonial change of guard (done every hour) is a spectacle of precision.
• Xingtian Temple is dedicated to General Guan (Three Kingdoms era). The temple is still active, and popular for worship and rituals.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Ximending is hailed as the Shinjuku of Taiwan and for good reason: the district is the source of the city’s sub-culture.
• Tamshui offers beautiful views of the sunset over the Taiwan Strait.
• Da’an has become popular for its shopping options, which include the Tonghua and Shida night markets.
• Nangang District Hiking Trail is a moderate 20 minute walk to the top of Xiangshan Mountain. Stunning views can be enjoyed from the dozens of benches for public use.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Taipei has 20 streets dedicated to food . Typical dishes include braised pork rice, beef noodles, and oyster omelette.
• Don’t forget to try some Bubble (Boba) tea, a tea-based drink invented in Taiwan.
• When offered something, Taiwanese always politely refuse a few times before eventually accepting. The custom builds rapport between people, and is widely observed.
• You must, must, visit at least one night market in Taipei (amazing street food – just line up where the locals are lining up). Top picks to start: Raohe Night Market, Ningxia Night Market, and Ximending Night Market.
• Great restaurants to try: Sushiro or Kura (conveyor sushi – multiple locations), Kiki Eslite Xinyi (Sichuan food), Shinyeh ($$$ – Traditional Taiwanese), Chi Chia Chuang ($$$), 好記擔仔麵 (Hao Ji – always a solid choice).
• Where to find good cheap eats : Yongkang Street is best known for its dumplings and quaint tea houses, while  Danshui has   cheap seafood stalls. Great fast food ideas: Hong Ya Hamburger or Mos Burger (multiple locations for both).
• Dangerous areas : none . Taipei is a very safe city. The worst trouble you will encounter will likely be traffic congestion.

Recommended trip duration:  3-4 days

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Alishan, Taiwan: The Ultimate Day Tour DIY Travel Guide

It’s my first time visiting Taiwan, and I decided to stay in the country for 12 days, during which I planned on visiting some iconic places in Taipei, the South, and the North. On my second day, I went straight to the south and stayed in Kaohsiung for 3 days since I purchased the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Unlimited Tourist Pass for 3 days! Thus, I got a chance to explore the South for 3 days. 

Apparently, one of my main goals was to visit the Alishan National Scenic Area. I’ve always been fond of reconnecting with nature, and I felt like this was one of the best places to visit in Southern Taiwan. In fact, the Alishan National Scenic Area is definitely a must-visit destination in Taiwan. So if you’re planning to visit Taiwan soon, this should be on your bucket list! Here’s a DIY travel guide to Alishan; including things to expect and do in the area! 

Table of Contents

Understanding Alishan National Scenic Area

Alishan National Scenic Area, or Alishan National Park, is a stunning mountainous region located in Central Taiwan. It is one of Taiwan’s most famous and popular national parks, known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient forests, unique flora and fauna, and captivating sunrise views. The park covers an area of approximately 415 square kilometers and is situated in Chiayi County.

The Alishan area is surrounded by mountains; thus, it has a cool climate with an average temperature of around 10 degrees Celsius. Alishan National Scenic Area offers great sunrise views, a sea of clouds, and an amazing railway experience! 

In addition, Alishan National Park is easily accessible from Chiayi, the nearest city, which is well-connected by trains and buses from major cities in Taiwan. Whether you’re a nature lover, hiker, or photography enthusiast, Alishan offers a memorable and picturesque experience that showcases the best of Taiwan’s natural beauty.

How to get to Alishan National Scenic Area? 

As mentioned above, Chiayi is the nearest city to Alishan National Park. Thus, getting to the national park is very accessible, whether you’re coming from Taipei City or the Southern part of Taiwan. There are actually different ways to get to Alishan, but here’s an easy way to get to Alishan National Scenic Area. (based on experience)

From Taipei

• From Taipei, take a TRA or THSR (Taiwan High Speed Railway) and board a train to Chiayi station.
• If you are taking the THSR, Then take a shuttle bus from Chiayi THSR Station. The first trip leaves at 9AM.
• From Chiayi station, it takes about 3 hours to get to Alishan National Park. 

From Kaoshiung 

• From Kaoshiung Station, take a TRA or THSR (Taiwan High Speed Railway) and get off at Chiayi Station. It only takes about 30 minutes to get here via THSR.
• Then take a shuttle bus from Chiayi THSR Station. The first bus trip leaves at 9AM.

Essential Travel Tips and Reminders 

• If you’re traveling on a day tour only (like me) , it’s highly recommended to take the high-speed railway to save time. 
• If you want to catch the sunrise, make sure to book accommodation nearby.
• Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Make sure to bring at least a jacket because the area has a cool temperature. 
• You may bring a bottle of water since there’s going to be a lot of walking! (Although there are some convenience stores within the area.)
• If traveling on a day tour, be mindful of the bus schedules going back to Chiayi. 
• Don’t bring too much stuff with you. (In case you were wondering, I brought my drone and a camera, which I didn’t use. It made it a little difficult to trek the mountains.)

Alishan Shuttle Bus Schedule (as of 2023)

Things to expect in alishan, taiwan.

Alishan Forest Railway 

The Alishan Forest Railway is an iconic narrow-gauge train that operates in the park, taking visitors on a scenic journey through lush forests, picturesque bridges, and tunnels. The railway is a popular way to reach the famous Alishan sunrise viewing platform.

Definitely one of the cutest old railways I’ve seen! It’s quite saddening that I didn’t get to take the train. Just a quick tip, if you don’t want to get exhausted hiking up the mountains or the Alishan area, you can consider taking the railway heading to the higher areas!

Alishan Sunrise

Watching the sunrise at Alishan is a bucket-list experience for many visitors. The best spot to witness the sunrise is Zhushan Station, where you can see the sea of clouds and the sun rising over the mountains. With that, it’s highly recommended to book accommodation nearby, especially if you’re planning to watch the sunrise early in the morning! 

In my case, since I only had a limited amount of time, I couldn’t get to watch the sunrise since I was only traveling the whole day. 

Ancient Giant Trees

Alishan is not just surrounded by mountains; it is also home to ancient trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old. The Alishan Sacred Tree Trail is a popular hiking trail where visitors can walk among these majestic giants. I was totally amazed at what the giant trees looked like! I literally enjoyed reading every description of the ancient trees I saw around the area. 

Sea of Clouds

If you’re planning to watch the sunrise, you’ll definitely get to experience the sea of clouds in Alishan. The sea of clouds often occurs in the early morning when clouds cover the valleys, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere.

Sister Ponds (Shoujhenxi)

 These two beautiful ponds are located within the park and offer serene and picturesque surroundings.

Alishan Cherry Blossoms

During the spring season, Alishan is adorned with cherry blossoms, attracting many visitors who come to witness the beautiful pink blooms. 

And yes! I was so grateful to have seen Alishan’s Cherry Blossom trees, and I even got to see the Cherry Blossom Tree that’s over a hundred years old!

Indigenous Culture 

Indigenous people live in the area surrounding Alishan National Park, and tourists can learn about their vibrant culture and traditions there.

Trails and Hiking

 There are numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of Alishan and its surroundings.

It’s important to note that Alishan’s weather can be changeable due to its high elevation, so visitors should be prepared for varying conditions. The park is well-equipped with visitor centers, accommodation options, and amenities to cater to tourists’ needs.

Expect a lot of walking and hiking around the area so make sure to wear comfortable clothes and bring a bottle of water since there’s going to be a lot of sweating!

My Thoughts on Visiting Alishan, Taiwan

When I arrived in Kaohsiung, I fell in love with the city at once, which gave me second thoughts about visiting Alishan National Park. I was even wondering if it was going to be worth visiting the national park since I’d only be there for a day. Upon consideration, I was so glad that I still pushed through going to Alishan. It was the best decision I’ve ever made! Well, that was the original plan, though. 

The Alishan National Scenic Area surpassed my expectations. I really didn’t expect it to be so amazing! No wonder this has to be one of the best destinations in Taiwan. A place that shouldn’t be missed! Also, it was my first time seeing the cherry blossom trees, which made me even more happy to be there. I’d definitely want to go back here, to experience the winter season! 

Note: If you’re considering staying in Kaohsiung too, you may book your accommodation at Jia’s Inn .

Frequently Asked Questions About Alishan

How much is the entrance fee to alishan .

Here are the following admission fees to Alishan National Park: 

• Full fare Ticket – 300
• Standard Discount Ticket – 150
• Half fare Ticket – 150
• Discount Ticket – 10

When is the best time to visit Alishan?

You can visit Alishan National Park all year. But the most recommended time to visit Alishan is from November to April. Take note that it’s rainy season in Taiwan from July to August. 

Can I visit Alishan for a day tour?  

Definitely! It is possible to go on a day tour to Alishan. Just be mindful of the shuttle bus schedules so that you won’t miss the bus going back to Chiayi City. 

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A travel blogger in the Philippines and a K-pop enthusiast, Ara Patria (The Adventuress) pursues her passion and love for traveling. She’s been blogging for years, where she writes about her own travel experiences and promotes the wonders of the Philippines. Not only does she promote the beauty of her country, but she also focuses on promoting sustainable tourism. She dreams of traveling the world and inspiring other people through her own written works and captured moments with her camera.

The Adventuress is a travel blogger with a purpose. She aims to inspire other people through her personal experiences, stories, and lenses. Outside her blogging world, she is an education, an SEO specialist, and TEFL/TESOL certified.

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Taiwan Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Taiwan travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Taiwan is a small country in East Asia that, despite its size, packs in plenty of adventures for travelers.

The destination is known for its bustling capital city Taipei, as well as its incredible natural beauty in areas like Taroko National Park and Sun Moon Lake .

Keep reading to dive into resources from Jessie on a Journey as well as its sister site Epicure & Culture that will help you with planning a trip to Taiwan.

Note: This guide to Taiwan travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

What would you add to this Taiwan travel guide?

Use this Taiwan travel map to begin planning your trip!

Click here for an interactive version of the above map.

Best Places To Visit In Taiwan

Learn about the top places to visit in Taiwan .

Active Exploring In Taiwan’s Taroko National Park

Cycling Sun Moon Lake In Taiwan

Hiking In Taiwan’s Dramatic Yehliu Geopark

13 Best Hiking Trails In Taiwan You Shouldn’t Miss

Taiwan Travel Advice

Use these Taiwan travel tips to plan the perfect trip.

How To Have A Quirky Stay At Hi-Lai Plaza Hotel’s Hello Kitty Room

Unusual Excursions: Traveler’s Guide To Quirky Taiwan

Solo Travel In Taiwan: How To Have An Amazing Trip On Your Own

Taiwan Food Trip

Explore the country on a virtual Taiwan food tour with these travel resources.

Eating Loofah In Taiwan

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Asia Travel Tips

This Asia travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip.

24 Best Places For Solo Travel In Asia

Top Taiwan Tours

Check out these fun tours in Taiwan from my affiliate partner, Viator:

• Sun Moon Lake 1-Day Leisure Tour from Taipei
• Zhuilu Old Trail From Hualien: The Best One Day Hike in Taiwan
• Xiao Long Bao & Beef Noodles Cooking Class (incl. Traditional Market Visit) in Taipei

Taiwan Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in Taiwan!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!  

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Renting A Car In Taiwan

Need a rental car for your Taiwan trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Taiwan Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Taiwan tour. When visiting Taiwan — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Taiwan itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Taiwan Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Taiwan .

Q: Is Taiwan safe to travel?

Taiwan is a safe place to travel. Violent crime is very rare, although tourists should always be vigilant towards pickpocketing and theft.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Taiwan alone?

Yes, solo travel in Taiwan is very safe! In fact, Taiwan is easy to get around, and locals tend to be friendly and helpful. It’s one of the best solo travel destinations in Asia .

Q: Which is the best month to visit Taiwan?

The months of September, October, and November are the best time to visit Taiwan. The weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.

Q: Is Taiwan cheap for travel?

Taiwan is not exactly a cheap destination for travel, especially when compared with other Asia trip destinations, but it is possible to travel here on a budget.

Budget travelers can expect to spend around $50 a day in Taiwan, while mid-range travelers should budget around $100 a day.

Q: Do I need a visa to enter Taiwan?

Citizens of many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, do not need a visa to visit Taiwan.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Taiwan International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Taiwan Embassy.

Q: What are some great Taiwan tourist places?

When visiting Taiwan, don’t miss Taipei (including the incredible night markets!), Sun Moon Lake , Kaohsiung, the Guanyinshuan National Scenic Area , the Kinmen Islands, and Taroko National Park , just to name a few local destinations.

Taiwan is just a short hour-and-a-half flight to Hong Kong and a two-and-a-half hour flight to South Korea for further exploration in Asia!

Q: What is the local currency in Taiwan?

The local currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar.

Local experiences in Taipei for the solo traveller

By: Author Jaclynn Seah

Posted on Published: March 7, 2019  - Last updated: January 14, 2024

Categories Taiwan , Sponsored

Looking to see the ‘real side’ of Taipei and have a local experience beyond the touristy sights? There are plenty of interesting things to do in Taipei beyond your typical food and attractions – if you know where to look. If you love to travel solo in Taiwan like me, these are fun and interesting ways to get to immerse yourself in local Taiwanese culture while exploring this beautiful country. Here are my favourite local experiences in Taipei.

This post is part of a collaboration with Scoot who flew me up to Taipei to dig deep and uncover unusual experiences beyond your typical tourist attractions.

After you’re done seeing typical tourist sights like Taipei 101 and Ximending (Check out this article on must-see sights in Taipei ), what other experiences will give you an insight to the local way of life in Taipei? These were some favourite activities where I got to learn about daily Taiwanese culture from the local guides.

Taipei Motorbike Tour by a Local

The most Taiwanese way of getting around is to hop on a scooter and zip about the city. I was not about to brave the insanity that is Taipei’s city traffic on my own scooter, so I signed up for a motorbike tour where a local guide would do all the driving and show me the secret sights of Taipei City along the way.

Originally I signed up for the Dawn Tour which would have taken me towards Pingxi (near Shifen and Sandiaoling Waterfalls ) and Jinguashi, but it was really rainy those mornings so my tour got cancelled, but after some discussion with them, I ended up doing the night tour with AJ around Taipei City instead.

Now AJ is a serious biker and his ride is no dinky scooter – it’s a large solid bike that is technically classified as a car in Taiwan because of its size and power, so getting up steep hills and covering long distances was no problem. He had a full-face helmet for me and even had gloves prepped for some of the colder parts of the journey.

AJ knew I had already been to Taipei several times so he decided to take me to some really local spots instead of following the typical night tour itinerary too closely. I would have been hardpressed to find some of these places on my own. He also gave me some great tips to help me find some more local experiences on the rest of my trip.

Jinda Luroufan 今大滷肉飯: A hidden Gem

We met in the evening and after some mulling, AJ took me to this place that serves some frankly AMAZING minced pork rice aka Luroufan. We headed to Sanchong on the outskirts of Taipei City, where AJ himself lives because ‘Taipei City is just too expensive’. Jinda Luroufan 今大滷肉飯 is a nondescript looking eatery save for the long snaking queue in front of it, a sure sign that the food is awesome. The meat was fatty and soft and melted in your mouth as you ate it, it was so good.

Jinda Luroufan: 40 Daren Street, Sanchong District, New Taipei City 新北市三重區大仁街40號

Yangmingshan 陽明山: Taipei night view without the crowds

Next, we headed to Yangmingshan for an amazing night view of the city. I always thought of Yangmingshan as a day spot where you go hiking and soak in hot springs, but along the way AJ showed me a collection of FnB outlets taking over old military housing and turning it into an upcoming hipster area, making me feel like I had to come back and explore this place more thoroughly.

He took me to the Chinese Culture University 中國文化大學 , perched in the middle of the slopes and we found a bunch of cars and motorbikes casually stopped along the roadside, with people standing and sitting along the walls of the university looking down and admiring the view of downtown Taipei from above. I like how it wasn’t crowded at all, with no tourist traps around.

Chinese Culture University: No. 55 Huagang Road, Shilin District, Taipei City 台北市士林區華岡路55號

After that, AJ drove us deeper in to the mountains, and we climbed even higher to Erziping 二子坪 . These were some hella steep and narrow roads, and a lot of it was done in pitch darkness with nothing but our high beam on and it got pretty cold at some point so I was glad for the gloves that AJ had. Our final viewpoint was on the top of Mount Datun 大屯山 over 1,000m high and we were lucky to get a pretty clear night view of the city below.

A little historical tour of Wanhua 萬華

On the way back, AJ was going to introduce me to a bubble tea that he loved but unfortunately, the stall was closed. Still, he took me around the historical Wanhua 萬華 area, pointing out some local sights to me and explaining a bit of history about familiar spots like Bopiliao and Qingshui Temple . He also pointed out a porridge joint that I wish I had time to check out, but guess I have to save something for future trips back…

All in all, I had a really satisfying time and I loved seeing Taipei in a different way than usual. I’d usually be in the MRT or walking, so zipping around by bike was a nice change and gave me access to places I wouldn’t have been able to reach easily on my own.

How to book a Taipei Motorcycle Tour

The Sunset tour in Chinese costs about S$102 – the Dawn tour is a little pricier at S$110, and the full day 8 hour tour costs about S$170. English tours are available as well but they cost slightly more.

I used Klook to book my motorbike tour [ Klook affiliate link ] which is probably the easiest option for English speakers, and you can find them on KKday as well. The motorbike guides get in touch with you via Line or Whatsapp directly to coordinate the pickup. 

Join the commune at the Treasure Hill Artist Village 寶藏巖國際藝術村

Huashan 1914 and Songshan Cultural Centre demonstrate how Taiwan has transformed abandoned spaces into hip cultural spots, and they’ve quickly gained popularity and are on many tourists must-see sights when getting their culture fix in Taipei. If you find those spaces a little too commercial for your liking, head down to Gongguan 公館 where you will an interesting art space right along the Xindian River.

Known as the Treasure Hill Artist Village , don’t get confused by the big temple that’s right in front of the art space – walk a little further in and you’ll find a bunch of rather ramshackle looking houses built into the hillside that houses the studios that make up the Artist Village. 

Treasure Hill began as an illegal shantytown that became housing for military dependents, it was later restored and turned into an artist commune in 2010. Most of the compound seems to be artist studio spaces, it hasn’t attracted mainstream and commercial brands so it still has that very indie feel. I loved just wandering around the narrow alleys and uneven staircases – there is a lot of art scattered throughout the buildings and surprises around every corner.

How to get to Treasure Hill Art village

The easiest way is to take the MRT along the green Songshan-Xindian line to Gongguan Station 公館. Treasure Hill is a short walk away by the river. Alternatively if you are up to cycling, start your journey from Bitan Scenic Area or Jingmei and cycle north the Xindian River till you pass Fuhe Riverside Park – read more about cycling in Taipei here

If you are a little more intrepid, there is a hostel located in the Treasure Hill Artist Village so you can stay overnight and soak in the vibes when only the few residents that live here are left. They also have a local artist residency programme – Check out the Taipei Artist Village website for more.

No. 2, Alley 14, Lane 230, Tingzhou Road Section 3, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City 台北市中正區汀州路三段230巷14弄2號

Tip: Grab dinner at the nearby Gongguan Night Market , the largest night market in the south district and a local favourite for its cheaper food and vast options, largely due to the student crowd from the nearby National Taiwan University. Read more about Gongguan Night Market and other local favourite night markets in Taipei .

Weekend shopping at Four Four South Village 四四南村

If you rather not shop in the malls, look out for this little village located very close to the iconic Taipei 101 tower. Similar to Treasure Hill Artist Village, Four Four South Village was also once housing for military dependents, but has since been designated a historical area and its low buildings have been preserved, a rarity amidst the sea of modernity and tall buildings around it. 

What most people come to Four Four South Village for is the weekend flea market also called the Simple Market , where little stalls are set up in the main square selling anything from clothing to art and even yummy snacks. If you can’t make it down on the weekend, Good Cho’s 好丘 is a great reason to swing by. This lifestyle store has some really cool local designed goods and foodstuff that make for great souvenirs if you don’t mind spending a little bit more. There is also a cafe that was a bit too crowded for me to grab a bite when I was there, but most people go there for their famous bagels. 

How to get to FOur Four South VIllage

Take the MRT to Taipei 101/World Trade Centre Station on the red Tamsui-Xinyi Line. Four Four South Village is a short walk away.

Good Cho’s has a few outlets around Taipei, though this one at Four Four South Village is the original branch that opened in 2010. Check out their website for more.

Xinyi Road Section 5, Taipei City 台北市信義區信義路五段

There’s nothing wrong with the popular Taipei night markets like Shilin Night Market and Raohe Night Market. While they tend to be very crowded of course, they do have a festive atmosphere and they see tons of tourists so they are used to non-Chinese speakers as well which is helpful if you aren’t used to the way of life.

But if you want to skip the crowds and see what the local Taiwanese people like to eat, check these places out instead.

Looking for more local night market options? Check out my detailed Underrated Taipei Night Markets Guide that also include recommendations on everything you should eat at Yansan Night Market and Tonghua Night Market.

Pig out at Nanjichang Night Market 南機場夜市

Nanjichang or South Airport night market is a little under-the-radar night market where you will hardly see any tourists.There used to be a military airport around the area, and it got its name in relation to Songshan Airport which is in the north of Taipei City. It is mostly food stalls – very few game stations and other retail outlets here.

My motorbike guide AJ said that the food here was still very authentic compared to the tourist night markets as most of the vendors here have been around for many years and aren’t in the business for a quick buck or gimmicks, but he still gave me a bunch of suggestions on must-eat food here:

First up: Lai Lai Dumplings 來來水餃店 , a dumpling shop that has been around for over 30 years. There is a minimum order of 10 dumplings, so I had a whole plate to myself for dinner – it was just 70 NTD (S$3) for some delectable handmade pork dumplings! 

Next up: Haochi Zhaji 好吃炸雞 with a really crispy and large fried chicken cutlet. Eat it while it’s hot – I packed half of it back to my room as I was a little full after the dumplings, and it definitely tasted better when warm.

There is a nameless pushcart closer to the Nanhai Road side of the market with an old uncle selling fried biscuits or 無名推車燒餅 . These fried wonders ranged from just 10-15 NTD (S$0.40-$0.60) each. I had a salty and a sweet one and they were lovely crispy treats.

I capped off my meal with an apple juice from Meilan Auntie Fruit Juice 美蘭阿姨果汁 has been around for ages and is well-loved as no additional sugar is added to the fruit juice. 

How to get to Nanjichang Night Market

Nanjichang is located along Zhonghua Road in the ZhongZheng district.The closest MRT stations are Longshan Temple along the blue Bannan line or Xiaonanmen along the green Xindian-Songshan line, and requires about 15-20mins of walking to reach. Alternatively, take a bus to the Nanjichang Apartment stop .

Lane 307, Zhonghua Road Section 2, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City 台北市中正區中華路二段307巷

Shop local at Jingmei Night Market 景美夜市

Be prepared for some hustle and bustle because Jingmei Night Market is not a tourist night market at all. It’s surprisingly big and you can easily get lost in the many lanes that sell all manner of food and sundry. It might be a bit challenging for non-Chinese speakers because there’s little in terms of tourist infrastructure and it gets pretty busy, but it’s a great way to see a slice of local life, so my suggestion is to immerse yourself while you are there and not block the way with your gawking and picture snapping

For foodies, I was a bit overwhelmed by the crowds and ended up wandering by accident into this hipster curry joint called FleeingByNight Curry 夜奔咖哩   and had this delectable 浪潮雞肉咖哩 chicken curry dish for dinner. Not the cheapest, but the tiny restaurant had great decor and a nice vibe.

Looking for what exactly to eat in Jingmei Night Market? I did some research and found these great options to check out – more in this post .

How to get to Jingmei Night Market

Take the MRT green Songshan-Xindian line to Jingmei Station. It’s a short walk from there

Jingmei Night Market: Jingmei Road, Wenshan District, Taipei City 台北市文山區景美街

FleeingByNight Curry: 19 Jingwen Road, Wenshan District, Taipei City 台北市文山區景文街19號

Traditional Taiwanese food cooking class with Jodie

What’s a more local way to eat in a foreign country than to learn the local recipes and cook your own food. Or have someone local cook for you if you’re lazy like I am. I enlisted the help of Jodie’s Kitchen, where a Taiwanese lady named Jodie holds cooking demonstrations and lessons in her house in the Xinyi District.

Jodie offers several different types of food classes – Xiaolongbaos are quite popular, but I elected to take the Traditional Taiwanese Cuisine course and learn about the Taiwanese staple, rice. We made several 3 main dishes based on long-grain rice that is planted in Taiwan: We started off with peanut milk that is a very popular breakfast dish, then we fried some delicious white radish cake and finished off with mushroom sticky rice. Along the way, Jodie served some Taiwanese tea and threw in some vegetables and fruits to complete the meal.

I say ‘we prepared’, but really Jodie was the one doing most of the cooking and I mostly helped with the prep and eating. It’s a very personalised class so depending on your level or interest in cooking, this can be quite a hands-on session or you can treat it like a demo.

How to book a Taiwanese Cooking Class

Check out the Jodie’s Kitchen website for more details or drop her an email. The Rice course costs $4,000 NTD for 1 person (4pax max per class, and it’s cheaper per pax too) and covers all the ingredients that Jodie uses. If you want something special or specific you can ask her too, she’s pretty flexible. The entire session lasted about 4 hours.

Jodie’s Kitchen is located in her house in the Xinyi district which is a little out of the way from downtown Taipei so you will need to take a 10-15min cab ride to get there from Xinyi or Wenshan MRT.

After the lesson, I took a cab to Taipei Zoo station and hopped on the Maokong Cable Car just in time to catch sunset, or you could head to Elephant Mountain for a climb too.

Staying connected in Taiwan

For travellers looking to stay connected or plan while on the go, get some Scoot Wi-Fi while you are on board. Many of my plans in Taipei were coordinated with the local guides over Whatsapp and Line so it was useful to stay connected while making that 4-hour+ flight.

Shoutout to Flexiroam as well which is now offering a free microchip with 1GB data for every Scoot passenger . Basically it’s a sticker that you attach to your SIM card that lets you access data in many different countries without having to remove your original SIM card. It’s useful if you are going to hop to many different countries quickly and don’t want to waste your time hunting down a local SIM card.

What awesome local experiences have you had in Taipei? Share them with me here.

This trip was sponsored and produced in collaboration with  as part of a series exploring Taipei and its surroundings. Check out the other  #TaiwanderingWithScoot  articles here, or see  all my Taiwan content .

Yilan Taiwan guide: Luodong, Wujie, Dongshan, Su’ao

Yilan Taiwan guide: Yilan City, Yuanshan, Jiaoxi, Toucheng

My Taipei weekend itinerary for the repeat visitor

Taipei outdoor activities to experience nature up close

Feeling fishy? Things to do in Nanfang’ao 南方澳, Yilan

How to Visit Turtle Island 龜山島, Taiwan’s only active volcano

Asia , City Guides , Taiwan · January 13, 2019

10 Brilliant Things to do in Taipei Alone

If you are planning a solo trip to Taipei, you’ve landed on the right page. Taipei is a great city for solo travelers. Not only is it super safe and easy to get around, but there are also plenty of awesome things to do in Taipei alone. Whether you’re looking to explore the temples, museums, or major tourist spots, Taipei is a great  solo getaway in Asia .

In this guide, I’ve mapped out the very best things to do in Taipei alone, including all the must-see spots while traveling solo in Taipei. Dive into the culture, feast on delicious local snacks, and experience the vibrancy of this urban hub! I’ve also included tons of handy tips and tricks to help you spend less time planning and more time enjoying your solo trip in Taipei.

For those traveling further afield, see my comprehensive  two weeks in Taiwan itinerary  and these  easy day trips from Taipei . Night owls and travelers looking to taste the city’s vibrant nightlife can also read  what to do in Taipei at night .

If it’s your first visit to Taiwan’s capital city, these Taipei travel tips will come in handy.

In a rush? Pin these things to do in Taipei alone for later.

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

The Best Things to do in Taipei Alone

Taiwan’s capital city has plenty to do and see – with busy streets, neon lights, rustic hidden alleyways, temples, museums, and gastronomic feasts; you’ll never be bored in Taipei. Little wonder it’s the perfect city to explore solo. 

Besides all the cool things to do in Taipei, the city also has an extensive transportation system making it easy to get around on your  Taipei solo  trip. With its extensive transit network, you can easily spend as little as 24 hours in Taipei and still pack in a bunch of awesome activities. However, to really experience all the city offers, spending at least  3 days in Taipei  is highly encouraged. If you have more time in the city, check out my fully flexible  Taipei itinerary for 5 days and this guide on the best hotels and hostels in Taipei .

Since there’s so much to do in Taipei, I’ve combined all the must-see spots in this guide. Here’s my list of the best things to do in Taipei alone, whether you have one day or many! 

Traveling solo for the first time can be quite overwhelming. Follow these  solo travel safety tips  for a stress-free trip. 

Taipei 101 might be the former tallest building globally, but it remains the most iconic building in Taiwan. And to be honest, no visit to Taipei would be complete without visiting this famous landmark.

Towering over the city at 509m, Taipei 101 offers a panoramic view of the cityscape. But that’s not all! Within the tower, there are dozens of high-end fashion boutiques and amazing must-try eateries. One such eatery is Ding Tai Fong, the most famous dumpling restaurant in Taipei.

Looking for fun things to do alone at night? Try this  night tour with Ding Tai Fong dinner  on your Taipei solo trip.

And, of course, the observatory itself is nothing short of what you would expect from a world-class tower. Apart from the magnificent views, a few elements make it even more impressive—for instance, the 730-ton damper that stabilizes Taipei 101 during typhoons or earthquakes. There’s also the Infinity Sky, which creates an amazing kaleidoscope. And let’s not forget, one of the fastest elevators in the world – reach the 89th floor in only 37s!

However, it is important to time your visit to Taipei 101 as it is usually super crowded. Therefore, either try to come during the week or  grab a fast pass  to skip the queues in advance.

Opening hours:  9:00 am-10:00 pm daily and the last admission time is at 9:15 pm. Keep in mind that opening hours on national holidays, such as Chinese New Year, may change.

How to get there:  Take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi line (Red line) to Taipei 101/ World Trade Centre Station, then take exit 4.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

When looking for things to do in Taipei alone, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is an excellent starting point. The grounds, also known as Liberty Square, cover 25 hectares and is home to impressive gardens, ponds, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, the National Concert Hall, and the National Theatre.

The main attraction here, however, is the Memorial Hall, which was originally established to pay tribute to this former leader of Taiwan.

Besides the impressive 6.3m high bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek on display here, the Memorial Hall is also home to an extensive permanent exhibition. Here you can view relics and photos related to President Chiang’s life and learn more about Taiwan’s complex history.

Also, don’t forget to catch the changing of the guards when visiting here! The guards’ change on the hour from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. The only exception is on Wednesdays when you can see the ceremony from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Entry is free.

Opening hours:  The  Memorial Hall  is open daily from 09:00 am – 6:00 pm. Note that timings during Chinese New Year may differ.  Liberty Square  is open daily from 05:00 am – 12:00 am.

How to get there:  The easiest way to reach CKS is by MRT. Take the Tamsui–Xinyi line (Red line) or Songshan–Xindian (Green line) to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (中正紀念堂). Note that the name might sometimes be displayed as CKS. Memorial Hall on the metro. Alternatively, you could also take the  Hop On Hop Off bus , which stops directly in front of Liberty Square.

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

The National Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall was built in 1972 and offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s founding father’s life – Dr. Sun Yat-sen. The main hall displays interesting artifacts and historical relics of Sun’s life during the Qing Dynasty revolution. If history is not your thing, it’s a great place to have a stroll around, too.

Besides the impressive golden-roofed hall, the grounds are just as immaculate. A beautiful garden surrounds the hall, and there’s a huge pond right in front of the main entrance. You’ll also spot a lot of youth hanging around practicing dance moves. 

Opening hours:  Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. The memorial hall is usually closed on Chinese New Year’s Eve/Day. There is no entrance fee to enter the main exhibition halls.

How to get there:  Take the Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Station (國父紀念館). Note that it is sometimes also referred to as  SYS. Memorial Hall  on the metro.

Longshan Temple

Step into one of Taiwan’s largest and oldest temples, Longshan Temple. Longshan Temple is probably the most famous temple in the city and should not be missed on your list of things to do in Taipei alone. 

It is also one of the few remaining temples where you can still see huge groups of locals chanting Buddhist songs and worshiping the various deities. Today, you’ll still see locals who’ve to pray for anything from getting good grades and being successful to finding their soul mates and even protecting them from evil spirits. For a closer look at the temple, here’s a quick  guide on Longshan Temple .

There is a huge market surrounding the temple where you can discover your path in life by sitting down with a fortune teller. Well, that’s of course, if you can speak Chinese.

If you want to take it one step further, continue to Snake Alley. And, just as the name suggests, there are real snakes here! Before visiting here, you should know that many shops sell snake soup. The patrons are mainly elders and tourists from mainland China. Although I do not condone this at all, it is still a part of the culture here. If that’s not your scene, opt to browse the various stores instead. Snake Alley is a great place to pick up traditional Chinese art, such as calligraphy and personalized name stamps.

Opening hours:  Monday – Sunday: 6:00 am -10:00 pm. There is no entrance fee to Longshan Temple, but donations are welcome.

How to get there:  Take the Bannan line (Blue line) to Longshan Temple (龍山寺). The temple lies north of the station plaza. Take Exit 1 for the fastest route.

National Palace Museum

The National Palace Museum is Taipei’s most famous museum. It’s also one of my favorite things to do in Taipei alone. If you want to learn more about Chinese history and culture, this is the perfect place to start!

Home to relics dating back nearly 5000 years, the museum houses more than 600,000 of the most precious artifacts, paintings, scriptures, and treasures, most of which were moved to Taiwan during the Chinese Civil War.

Although the museum has four floors and two main exhibition halls, only some areas are open to the public to preserve these centuries-old pieces. One item that should be high on your must-see list is the famous “Jadeite Cabbage,” better known as the “Chinese Cabbage.” It is wholly crafted out of Jade and the detail is simply mind-blowing.

Headphones are also available for rental if you’d like to have a personal audio tour of the museum. Currently, the audio tour is available in English, Mandarin, Korean, and Japanese.

Pro Tip:  The best time to visit the museum is Friday or Saturday evenings as it is not as busy as other days. If you can’t take time to your visit during one of these time slots, I highly recommend grabbing a  fast-track ticket  in advance to save time. For those who want to fit in another museum, try  this tour .

Opening hours:  Sunday – Thursday: 8:30 am – 6:30 pm, and Friday – Saturday: 8:30 am – 9:30 pm.

How to get there:  The easiest way to get to the National Palace Museum is by using the  Hop On Hop Off bus.  The bus stops right in front of the entrance. Alternatively, take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi line (Red line) to Shilin station (士林). From here, catch Bus 30, which leaves every 30 minutes on weekdays and every 15 minutes on weekends. 

Addiction Aquatic Development 

Visiting Addiction Aquatic Development (引水產) is by far one of my favorite things to do in Taipei alone. I simply love this place! And if you are a foodie searching for a posh seafood market that offers fresh treats from the ocean, imported goods, and amazing sangria, you will too!

The complex consists of four main parts, an aquamarine where you can buy fresh seafood products, amazing sushi & seafood bar, a hot pot restaurant, and an outdoor charcoal-grilled seafood barbecue restaurant. Not to mention an incredible grocer that offers a wide selection of fresh produce and goods from around the globe. 

Opening hours:  6 am – 12 am daily but note that the different sections’ opening times vary.

• The Sushi Bar: 9:30 am – 12:00 am
• The Seafood Bar: 10:00 am – 12:00 am
• The Charcoal Grill: 10:30 am – 12:00 am
• Hot Pot Restaurant: 11:00 am – 12:00 am

Pro Tip:  Remember to bring cash. All the areas work on a first-come, first-serve basis, so if you come on a weekend, be prepared to wait for a seat. Reservations are only open for the Hot Pot restaurant, so if you want to book a table, simply ask your hotel to help you make a booking.

How to get there:  Take the MRT Wenhu Line (Brown Line) and get off at Zhongshan Junior High School Station. Then take Exit 2. From here, it is still a 15-minute walk. So if you want to get a glimpse of Taipei’s daily life, enjoy a stroll through the local neighborhood. If you plan to visit in the morning, there’s a bustling day market surrounding AAD, which offers tons of street photography ops.

Alternatively, grab a taxi outside any MRT station or even from your hotel. A cab from Da’an, for instance, will set you back NT$250-300 for a single journey. And, remember to show the taxi driver the Chinese address, 台北市民族東路410巷2弄18號.

Maokong Mountain

If you’re looking to spend a relaxing morning or afternoon sipping on high-quality tea and enjoying breathtaking views of tea plantations, Maokong Mountain, and the lower-lying city, Maokong should be high on your list of things to do.

Maokong Mountain is widely known as one of Taipei’s most scenic spots, and the perfect spot to enjoy a piece of nature near the city. The tiny village is home to amazing teahouses and gorgeous views.

My favorite part about visiting Maokong is the gondola ride up the mountain. The cable system is 4.3km long, so the ride itself isn’t very long. There are also four stops, so in essence, if you have time, I’d suggest making a stop at each to explore the surrounding areas. Crystal cabins, glass-bottoms in other words, are available, which will enable you to enjoy the panoramic views and natural scenery.

The full fare to reach the peak is NT$120 for a single journey. Partial fares are NT$70 for one station and NT$100 for two stations.

However, if you do want to skip the queues  (which will be there, especially on weekends),  consider grabbing your ticket here first:  Maokong Gondola Combo Ticket in Taipei .

Pro Tip:  If you are on a tight budget, you might want to skip the teahouses. Generally, the teahouses are quite expensive, and tea is charged per pot, not cup. You could easily be looking at spending a couple of hundred Taiwanese dollars to experience a traditional tea ceremony here.

Gondola Opening hours :

• Monday: 8:30 am – 9:00 pm (only open on the first Monday of every month)
• Tuesday -Thursday & Sunday: 8:30 am – 9:00 pm
• Friday – Saturday: 8:30 am – 10:00 pm

Pro Tip:  These timings may change due to special events, festivals, or the weather. If it’s too windy, you can still get up the mountain by bus. The bus stop is right in front of the Gondola Station, and there are a few buses that go up the hill. Generally, you can take Bus S10 and Brown Bus 18, or ask the staff what the best bus is to reach your destination along the mountain.

How to get there:  Take the MRT Wenhu Line (Brown Line) to the last stop, Taipei Zoo Station. From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the Maokong Gondola Station. Don’t worry; clear signs are pointing the way in both English and Chinese.

Ximending is a lively pedestrian shopping area in Taipei and a popular go-to place for all kinds of folk. It’s also one of the many great things to do in Taipei alone, especially if you’re into shopping. 

Ximending is home to cool clothing stores, cheap eats, quirky-themed restaurants, and massive neon billboards and signage. It’s also a popular spot for cultural activities, exhibitions and if you’re lucky, you might even see some street performances.

Don’t forget to pop into the Red House Theatre if you’re looking to see some art or perhaps even check out one of the performances in the small concert hall. For those looking for a unique dining experience, be sure to check out some of  Taipei’s quirky themed cafes .  Modern Toilet , in particular, is bound to bring loads of laughs.

How to get there:  Take the MRT Bannan Line (Blue line) or the Songshan–Xindian (Green line) to Ximen Station (西門), and then take Exit 6.

Visit the night markets

The best way to explore Taipei is through your stomach! And one of the easiest ways to do just that while traveling solo in Taipei is by visiting Taiwan’s epic night markets .

Taipei’s night markets  are legendary and you’ll have no problem finding all your favorite Taiwanese drinks and street food in Asia’s culinary kitchen! If you’re vegan, there are plenty of options too! Read this post to find the  best vegan eats in Taipei . 

My top night markets in Taipei to visit solo, however, remain Shilin Night Market (士林夜市) and Roahe Night Market (饒河夜市). Apart from the amazing  Taiwanese street food  on offer here, these night markets are also a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and Chinese trinkets.

Haggling is not necessarily frowned upon in Taiwan, but you will need to put in a bit more effort than other destinations in Asia, like Thailand or Indonesia. Always half the price given and then negotiate from there! Oh, and travel tip – only consider haggling if there is no price indicated on an item.

Like most night markets in Taiwan, shops start to open up around 5:30-ish and usually close before midnight. To experience night market life at its best, come between 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm. But, be warned, it gets crowded!

How to get to Shilin Night Market

Take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi line (Red line) to Jiantan Station (劍潭) and then take Exit 1. The night market’s entrance is to the left as you cross the street.

How to get to Roahe Night Market 

Take the Songshan–Xindian (Green line) to the terminus station, Songshan (松山). After leaving, exit at Gate 5 and turn right. The entrance to the night market is across the street, next to the temple.

Pro tip:  It’s no secret that Asia is one of the best places to shop for fashion at super low prices! And Taipei is no different. So, if you are bargain hunting for cheap clothes, you’re in for a real treat! Before snacking your way through Raohe, take a stroll through Wufenpu – a maze of alleyways home to dozens of clothing and accessories stores.

You also might want to consider joining one of these must-do foodie tours:

• Shilin Night Market Food Walking Tour in Taipei
• Taipei Night Market Michelin Food Tour in Ningxia Night Market
• Taiwanese Cooking Class

Hike up Elephant Mountain

Hiking up Elephant Mountain is a great add-on to your list of things to do in Taipei alone. Although the climb up the mountain is quite steep and might feel never-ending, it is definitely worth the effort. Because once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best views of the city! 

There are two viewing platforms, one halfway to the top and the most Instagram-worthy spot at the very top of the mountain. For the best views, I highly recommend going to the second viewing platform with the boulders. Depending on your fitness level, climbing the steep stairs to the top shouldn’t take more than 20-30 minutes. 

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Elephant Mountain is that it is extremely popular among locals, tourists, and photographers. So, be prepared for the crowds.

Opening hours : You can visit Elephant Mountain all day, any day. But for a truly memorable experience, I highly recommend coming at sunset and staying a bit longer to see the city’s skyline light up. It’s extremely beautiful and well worth the wait. If you happen to be in Taipei on New Year’s Eve, this is one of the best spots in the city to watch the dazzling Taipei 101 fireworks show.

How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi line (Red line) to Elephant Mountain Xiangshan station (象山). This is the last stop on the line. Then take Exit 2. Follow the signs to the entrance of the hiking trail. It will take you about 20 minutes to get to the entrance, so if you don’t feel like walking, grab a U-bike in front of the station and cycle here.

Have you been to Taipei yet? What are your favorite things to do in Taipei alone? And, what tips or tricks do you have for fellow travelers planning to visit Taipei solo? Drop your comments below! 

If you’re looking to extend your list of awesome things to do in Taipei alone, why not see what the outskirts have to offer! Read about how to get to Jiufen or Shifen Waterfall , visit the Taiwan’s cat village or check out this secret waterfall near Taipei.

Did you like this list of things to do in Taipei alone? Maybe your friends will, too. Share it here. 

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January 16, 2019 at

I really like how you lay out the information here with pro tips, etc. Very useful – thanks!

Thanks Michelle! Great to know it comes in handy!

YES! I am so happy to have found this list! I recently started making my bucket list for Taiwan and I am adding all of these! THANK YOU for sharing!

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• Travel tips

Solo Travel Taipei: 20 Things to do in Taipei Alone

As the capital city of Taiwan, Taipei (台北) is a large cosmopolitan city where it is the economic, political and cultural centre. Taipei is both modern and traditional ; the city has a vibrant nightlife and delicious world-class cuisine .

Moreover, Taipei is one of the best cities for solo travel. The city is safe, easy to get around and very affordable . Even if you don’t know how to speak Mandarin or read Chinese, don’t be afraid to visit one of the friendliest cities. Taiwanese people are the happiest and most helpful people I’ve met.

I’ve visited Taipei many times and I keep coming back because I love the city. And I want other solo female travellers to see what I see. So, I compiled a list of the best things to do in Taipei for a first-time solo traveller. If you have never been to Taiwan and are wondering what to do in Taipei alone, then keep reading.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the  disclosure for more info.

Table of Contents

Before you take a solo trip to Taipei Taiwan

Before you travel solo to Taipei, take a look at my post on all my best tips for travelling to Taiwan alone . I included a lot of information, including getting a Taiwan SIM card , transportation around the country and more.

Here are a few more travel tips for travelling solo to Taipei:

• Taipei is a safe city for solo female travellers . Even though the city feels safe, every traveller should always take safety precautions.
• Taipei is affordable for most visitors . The city has fantastic cheap accommodations, inexpensive food and many free activities.
• Download the Google Translate app on your mobile . It can help with everyday conversation and reading the menu.
• Chinese New Year (late January to mid-February) – celebrate the lunar year for the first 15 days of the new year.
• Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival (15th day of Lunar new year) – the grand finale of Chinese New Year celebrations in Pingxi.
• Mid-Autumn Festival (mid-August) – annual Moon Festival with moon cakes, dragon dances and fireworks.

How to get to Taipei Taiwan

Most international travellers will arrive in Taipei because more international flights are flying into Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport .

The easiest way to get into the city is by taking the airport express from Taoyuan Airport MRT  to Taipei Main Train Station. It takes about 35 minutes on the express train and costs NT$150 .

The train is the best option if you travel from other parts of Taiwan. There are also long-distance buses, but the train is the easiest and most predictable.

Taiwan High-Speed Railway (HSR) is the fastest way to travel between Taipei and Kaohsiung. Check the HSR train schedule and cost here .

Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) is the regular train that connects most cities around the island. Check the TRA train schedule and cost here .

How to get around Taipei on your own

My favourite way to see Taipei is on foot. But the city is quite big, so you might want to take public transportation while you are in Taipei.

But before you get on a subway or bus, I recommend buying a rechargeable smartcard called EasyCard or iPass . Either card is good for taking public transportation in major cities in Taiwan. You can get one at any major train station or convenience store in Taiwan.

Taipei Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)

Taipei Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is an efficient subway system in Taipei . You can buy a single-journey ticket where the rate depends on the distance/number of stops. Or get a one-day pass and take as many subway rides as you like.

Taipei Joint Bus System

Sometimes it is better to take the public bus when the MRT does not reach certain places. Tap your EasyCard or iPass when you get on the bus and alight.

To find a bus, select your destination in Google Maps, which will show you several bus routes.

Uber  is a ride-hailing company where you can order car rides. It is like a cab, but you can order one via your smartphone.

20 best things to do in Taipei alone

If it is your first time in Taipei, you must be wondering what to do in Taipei because there are so many attractions and the city is quite spread out.

The good news is that Taipei is really easy to navigate. And with the easy-to-use public transportation system, you have no problems spending four to five days in Taipei  is best to see all the city’s highlights.

So in no particular order, here are my 20 best things to do alone in Taipei for independent travellers.

What to do in Taipei: best tourist attractions

1. visit all the major landmarks in liberty square.

If you have never been to Taipei, you’ll have to start your self-guided sightseeing tour at Liberty Square (also called Freedom Square ), where you can see several major landmarks in the public square.

Within the public plaza of 240,000 square meters, you can see:

• Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall (中正紀念堂) – a national monument built in memory of Chiang Kai Shek, the first President of the Republic of China. It also houses cultural exhibitions inside the grand building.
• National Theater (國家戲劇院) and National Concert Hall (國家音樂廳 ) – the twin performing arts venue for music, dance and theatre.
• Liberty Square Arch – also known as the Gate of Integrity , is a historic gate with five archways.

2. See the capital’s tallest skyscraper: Taipei 101

As the tallest skyscraper in Taipei, the building has 101 floors, as the name suggests. And it was at one point (2004 to 2010) the tallest building in the world.

Definitely see the tall building and look for these highlights:

• Take the speedy elevator to the Observation Deck on the 89th floor to see an unobstructed view of Taipei. Admiring the city view and lights is one of the best things to do at night
• Shop at the big shopping mall at the base of the building .
• Try Taiwanese food at the massive food court .
• Visit the world’s highest Starbucks on the 35th floor. But you must make a reservation first and spend a minimum of NT$250 per person.
• Watch the spectacular light show and fireworks if you are in Taipei on New Year’s Eve.

3. Visit one of many museums in Taipei

If museum is your jam then I have good news for you: there are over 45 museums in Taipei . They range from the biggest museum in Taiwan to smaller ones that focus on a specific theme.

You could try visiting all the museums. Or you can check out some of my favourite ones:

• National Palace Museum (NPM) (國立故宮博物院) – learn about Chinese art at the most important museum in Taiwan, which has the largest collection of ancient Chinese artifacts. And even if you don’t see everything, look for the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat-Shaped Stone.
• Taipei Fine Arts Museum (TFAM) (臺北市立美術館) – the first museum in Taiwan dedicated to Taiwanese contemporary art.
• Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA Taipei) (台北當代藝術館) – many exhibits showcasing modern art, digital art and multimedia art. MOCA Taipei hosts lectures, workshops and other art events focusing on modern art.
• Ama Museum (阿嬤家-和平與女性人權館) – a one-of-a-kind museum that honours women when the Japanese occupied Taiwan. 

Taipei: things to do in different neighbourhoods

4. wander around the lively ximending area.

If you visit only one area in Taipei, it must be Ximending (西門町) because the pedestrian walking area has many things to do and see. Shops are open during the day, while the night market comes alive when the sun goes down.

Try to visit Ximending both day and night. And make sure to look for these attractions:

• Red House Theater (西門紅樓) – the historic red brick mansion from the Japanese colonial period is now used for cultural activities.
• Rainbow Six – a six-colour rainbow with “Taipei” painted on Hanzhong Street symbolizes gender equality and diversity.
• Colourful street art – many colourful graffitis are around Taipei Cinema Park.
• Ximending Night Market – meander the streets of Ximending and find street food around the night market.
• Try some of the best Ximending food – including breakfast at Yong He Soy Milk and Michelin beef noodles at Lao Shandong Homemade Noodles

5. Roam around the old neighbourhood of Bangka

If you want to see old Taipei, go to Bangka (艋舺) in Wanhua District , just south of Ximending. The old neighbourhood has historic temples, streets, and traditional eateries.

While you are in Bangka, look for some of these highlights:

• Longshan Temple (龍山寺) – built in 1738, is one of Taiwan’s oldest temples and survived WWII and many natural disasters. See the pair of copper-cast dragon pillars.
• Bopiliao Historic Block (剝皮寮歷史街區) – walk the brick-paved pedestrian streets and see cultural exhibits inside the restored buildings from the Qing Dynasty.
• Shintomicho Cultural Market (新富町文化市場) – take Instagram photos at this horseshoe-shaped heritage building from the Japanese colonial time.
• 36 Rice Cake Dessert (三六食粑) – try traditional Taiwanese desserts and sweet treats.
• Huaxi Street Night Market (臺北華西街夜市) – covered market with several Michelin street food stalls.

6. Shop and eat on Dihua Street in Dadaocheng

In the historic neighbourhood of Dadaocheng (大稻埕) , there are many things to do, eat and buy on Dihua Street . On the main street, you will find tea houses, dessert shops, cafes, food markets, temples, art galleries, etc. Many shops sell medicinal tea, dried goods, fabric and much more. If I don’t travel with my 7kg backpack , I would buy many things here!

Here are some things you must do in Dadaocheng:

• Buy locally made souvenirs from Gao Jian Home Goods Store and Lao Mian Cheng Lantern Shop .
• Look for tea and dried goods from traditional medicinal stores like Huang Yu Sheng .
• Drink Oolong tea at South Street Delight Tea House .
• Rent a traditional cheongsam (traditional Chinese dress) at 貳零年華 salon 1920s and take photos around Dadaocheng.

7. Explore the neighbourhood around Yong Kang Street

Yong Kang Street is the main street in a lovely local neighbourhood in Da’an District . You can find local Taiwanese restaurants, bubble tea shops, souvenir shops, and Michelin-rated restaurants along the main road and side streets.

Here are some highlights around the neighbourhood of Yong Kang Street:

• Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) – while there are many locations worldwide, this is the OG. The soup dumplings are simply the best! Also, try the chocolate dumpling; they don’t have it anywhere else! And it is a one Michelin-star restaurant in Taipei.
• Tian Jin Scallion Pancake (天津蔥抓餅) – I tried the scallion pancake with egg and basil at this popular food stall. It is so good (and I don’t even like scallions!)
• Yongkang Beef Noodles (永康牛肉麵) – try their Michelin-level beef noodles.
• Scone shop (悄悄好食) – best homemade scones in Taipei
• Lai Hao (來好) – a cute shop selling typical Taiwanese souvenirs

Best things to do in Taipei alone: pamper yourself

8. get a massage, reflexology and head spa.

One of the best activities for a solo traveller is to pamper yourself by going to a day spa or hair salon. Many day spas around Taipei offer exceptional packages for massages and reflexology . Prices are affordable, and the service is top-notched.

And when you get a hair wash at a hair salon, it includes a shoulder, neck and head massage . And some salons will have specific head spa packages too.

Here are some of the places I tried in Taipei. Highly recommend all of them:

• The Village Spa (村之閣) – get free ear candling, hot stone massage or cupping when you get the 100-minute or 130-minute massage.
• Young Song (不老松足湯) – very affordable foot massage and foot bath at this 24-hour foot reflexology spa.
• H Gallery Aveda 永康店 – been here twice for a haircut. The haircut included a shoulder, neck and head massage.

What to eat in Taipei for foodies travelling to Taiwan

9. try taiwanese breakfast.

Taiwanese breakfast might be my favourite type of breakfast, and many places in Taipei serve typical breakfast food like egg pancakes, rice rolls, dumplings, turnip cakes, small steamed buns, and soy milk . Oh, and Taiwanese breakfast sandwiches are awesome too!

Wake up early and find one of these breakfast joints:

• Yong He Soy Milk King (永和豆漿大王) – O.M.G. If you are a fan of Taiwanese breakfast like I am, you may want to come here a few times. Everything on the menu is good.
• 阜杭豆漿 (Fuhang Soy Milk) – a Michelin-level breakfast which includes their specialties: soy milk and oven-baked thick bread.
• 良粟商號   (Liáng sù shānghào) – popular cafe serving soft-boiled egg sandwiches.

10. Try traditional Taiwanese food

Food is a big part of Taiwanese culture. And when you are in Taipei, you can try many types of traditional Taiwanese food, such as scallion pancakes, beef noodle soup, braised pork rice , pineapple cake , and so much more.

You can find traditional food at local restaurants and night markets . Here are some places to look for:

• J&G Fried Chicken (繼光香香雞) – get their signature popcorn chicken (original or spicy), made with tender and juicy pieces of chicken breast.
• Xi Men Gin Fong (西門金鋒魯肉飯) – serves many typical dishes like braised pork rice, turkey rice, vegetables and homemade soup.
• Snowflake Shaved Ice Dessert (花藏雪) – their shaved ice mountains are very Instagrammable.
• Sunny Hills (微熱山丘) – a famous bakery selling pineapple cake. If you are a tourist, you can try a pineapple cake for free!

11. Drink milk tea and bubble tea

Taiwan is all about milk tea and bubble tea. And no matter where you are in Taiwan, you can find milk tea anywhere!

This is great news for tea lovers like myself. I can’t get enough of Taiwanese milk tea, which is black tea with whole milk . But there are many other variations of this classic tea, like Oolong tea, green tea, with or without milk, and many more combinations.

As for bubble tea, or boba tea , they are small tapioca balls that are soft and chewy. They make an excellent addition to milk tea and other flavoured drinks.

I really like milk tea from 樺達奶茶 and any boxed milk tea from 7-Eleven . As for bubble tea, 50 Lan is cheap, and you can’t go wrong with Tenrens .

12. Eat cheap Michelin food

175 restaurants and food establishments in Taipei were awarded the Michelin title (from Bib Gourmand to 3-star distinction). And many of the recognized places offer affordable food that everyone can enjoy.

Look for these Michelin cheap eats in Taipei:

• Lao Shandong Homemade Noodles (老山東牛肉麵)  – beef noodle soup in Ximending.
• Yi Jia Zi (一甲子) – stewed pork rice and fish ball soup near Ximending.
• Fuzhou Ancestor Pepper Pie (福州世祖胡椒餅) – pepper bun at Raohe Night Market.
• Liu Yu Zi (劉芋仔蛋黃芋餅) – deep-fried taro balls at Ningxia Night Market.
• Fang Chia Chicken Rice (方家雞肉飯) – shredded chicken rice at Ningxia Night Market.
• Yuan Fang Guabao (源芳刈包) – stewed pork in a steamed bun at Huaxi Street Night Market.

13. Eat your way around Taipei Night Markets

While it is possible to visit all the night markets in Taipei (there are 17!), you will need a few weeks to try everything. Here are my 5 favourite night markets in Taipei if you have limited time:

• Raohe Night Market (饒河夜市) – one of Taipei’s oldest night markets, and it has over 600 meters of food stalls.
• Shilin Night Market (士林觀光夜市) – the night market is a bit confusing, but all you have to do is to follow the crowd and the food stalls.
• Ningxia Night Market (寧夏夜市) – a small night market that has excellent Michelin recommendations.
• Ximending Night Market (西門町夜市) – it is not the biggest night market, but Ximending has delicious street food and excellent local restaurants. 
• Nanjichang Night Market (南機場夜市) – it is a smaller night market, but it opens early and is a local favourite.

Outdoor activities around Taipei

14. go on an easy hike around elephant mountain.

For nature lovers, spend a few hours hiking around Elephant Mountain (象山) . It is an excellent day hike with a great view of Taipei.

And if you follow the paved path and signages, you can discover other trails and viewpoints in Four Beasts Scenic Area (四獸山風景區) . Bring water and snacks.

How to get to Elephant Mountain: take the MRT to Xiangshan Station (R02) on Tamsui-Xinyi Line (red) and exit via Exit 2 . Walk across Xiangshan Park and find the start of the trail.

15. Take the gondola and visit Maokong

Take a half-day trip to Wenshan District and visit Maokong (貓空) , a beautiful spot just at the edge of the city where you can sip tea made from locally grown tea. And the best way to see the area and all the tea fields is by taking the scenic gondola ride. 

How to get to Maokong: take the 30-minute Maokong gondola scenic cable car from Taipei Zoo Station .

Other things to do alone in Taipei: outside of the city centre

16. visit the quaint town of jiufen.

A visit to the quaint town of Jiufen (九份) must include a stroll through Jiufen Old Street, where you can find unique local Taiwanese snacks and teahouses.

While you are in Jiufen, wander off the main town and search for the Golden Waterfall , a cascading waterfall with a golden colour. And make sure to bring a pair of hiking shoes with you. There are numerous hiking trails, including Teapot Mountain and Banpingshan Trail . 

How to get to Jiufen: the easiest way to travel from Taipei to Jiufen is by taking bus 1062 from Zhongxiao Fuxing Station to Jiufen Old Street bus stop .

17. Release a sky lantern at Shifen

Shifen   (十分) is a railroad town east of Taipei known for its beautiful waterfalls: Yanjingdong Falls and Shifen Waterfall . 

And if you are spending the day in Shifen, you must participate in one of the most iconic rituals in Shifen: releasing a sky lantern  along Shifen Old Street . It is one of my favourite activities in Taiwan!

How to get to Shifen: take the TRA train to Shifen Station (change trains at Ruifang Station).

18. Experience hot spring culture at Beitou

Beitou Hot Spring (北投)  is a popular hot spring town near the city centre. Learn about the history of Beitou and experience hot springs via free thermal pools or public hot springs like Millennium Hot Spring . Or better yet, stay overnight at one of the hot springs hotels like Waterhouse Hotel .

How to get to Beitou: take the MRT to Xinbeitou Station (R22A) on Tamsui-Xinyi Line (red) exit via Exit 1 .

19. Go on an epic hike in Yangmingshan National Park

When you spend a day in Yangmingshan National Park (陽明山國家公園) , you can meander through a series of hiking trails, see hot springs and indulge yourself fully in nature.

Since the national park is quite big and there are many ways to start hiking, research and see which trails you want to tackle for the day. And make sure to wear good hiking shoes and warm clothes as it is cooler in the mountains.

How to get to Yangminshan National Park: the easiest way to get there is by taking Royal Bus 1717 (bound for Jinshan) at Taipei Station. Alight at Yangminshan National Park Administration stop.

20. Visit the waterfront town of Tamsui

Tamsui (淡水) is a waterfront city with a small-town charm. In the old part of town, there is the main street called Tamsui Old Street , where vendors sell local food and souvenirs. Look for Danshui Market , Fuyou Temple and Tamsui Longshan Temple .

Follow the path along the riverbank and make your way to Fisherman’s Wharf . The journey is quite scenic and relaxing.

How to get to Tamsui : take the MRT to Tamsui Station (R28) on Tamsui-Xinyi Line (red) and exit via Exit 1 .

Taipei solo trip: where to stay

Plenty of excellent hostels and hotels are suitable for people travelling alone. The best area to stay is near Taipei Main Station because you are within walking distance of the train station, MRT, and Ximending . But honestly, you can stay anywhere because public transportation is very efficient.

I have a detailed post on where to stay in Taipei as a solo traveller , but here is a quick summary:

• Check prices & reviews: Agoda

Want to join a tour in Taipei Taiwan?

Are you ready to take a solo trip to taipei, taiwan.

I hope so because Taiwan is one of my favourite countries, and Taipei is an excellent starting point for your solo trip.

As I mentioned before, I recommend spending about four to five days in Taipei so you can really see the capital city and eat all the delicious food. But even if you have one day in Taipei , you can see and eat a lot! Ha!

Let me know in the comments if you have any specific questions about travelling solo to Taipei or if I missed any attractions and activities that should be part of this list.

Thank you for reading my Taipei solo travel guide

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Taiwan:

Introduction to Taiwan

• Things to know before visiting Taiwan  
• How and where to buy a Taiwan prepaid SIM card
• How to spend 3 weeks in Taiwan  
• 22 must-eat food in Taiwan  
• Top 10 must-try Taiwan 7-11 Food

Northern Taiwan posts

• Where to stay in Taipei for solo travellers
• Dadaocheng Taipei: what to do, buy and eat on Dihua Street  
• 9 Places to eat breakfast in Taipei  
• Top 21 food to try in Ximending in Taipei  
• 7 Best day trips from Taipei
• A complete beginner’s guide to Beitou Hot Spring
• How to travel from Taipei to Jiufen  
• Bitoujiao Trail: short and easy hike from Taipei or Yilan
• Monka Hotel: affordable Taipei boutique hotel
• Kimpton Da’an Hotel: best luxury boutique hotel in Taipei

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Neipi Beach: How to Get There and What to Do

Hualien Food Guide: Where and What to Eat in Hualien, Taiwan

Top 3 Taichung Night Market in Taichung, Taiwan

11 comments.

Dear Queenie,

I am travelling to Taipei in October and I am nervous as it’s my first solo trip ever! I definitely look a lot more different as I am South Asian. I was wondering if you had any tips for Taipei – whether it is in terms of safety or places to check out. Any and all advice is appreciated! Thank you! 🙂

Hi Shar, it doesn’t matter if you look different, be confident! 🙂 I don’t speak mandarin and I got by with few phrases and that’s it! Taiwanese people are friendly and helpful. And if you are in Taipei, a lot of locals speak a bit of English so no worries at all. Taipei is safe even if you are walking around at night. Just practice your usual safety precautions and you will be fine. And if you meet up with other solo travellers, you can explore Taipei together! Have lots of fun! 🙂

Hi Queenie,

I just happened to scroll down and see your reply! Sorry about not responding sooner. Thank you very much for your encouragement. Wow, it didn’t even cross my mind that I could travel with other solo travellers! Thanks Queenie for writing such a helpful blog! Do you have any tips on what I should take with me to Taipei? (Are mosquitoes a concern in mid-late October?)

Hi Sharanya, no worries about not replying! I hope it means you were busy researching and planning for your trip to Taiwan! 🙂 Ya part of travelling solo is meeting other (solo) travellers. I am always surprised to see how many people travel on their own, like me! And as for mosquitos, I didn’t have any issues in the city. But if you are in rural areas and at night, it could be annoying but I wouldn’t say it a problem. When in doubt, get insect repellent in Taipei. I’m sure they have better brands to tackle the pesky insect. Enjoy Taipei!! 🙂

Yusna Murphiyana

Hi Sharaya. Im going solo oct 10th. Which date u going?

Amazing guidelines to Taiwan. I’m planning on a solo trip to Taiwan too 20-25 Dec but really afraid though as this is my first solo trip. What are some of nice places to visit for natural scenery/park?

If you’re aware also, are there halal food around?

Hi Athirah, Taiwan is a great country for a solo trip! I’m here right now! 🙂 Near Taipei, you can take a train to Jiufen and Shifen – they are both great for outdoors, hikes and to see the countryside. I love both places! I have a post on side trips from Taipei on both locations 🙂 I did see places with halal food – check Ximending and around the touristy area. Hope this helps!

Hello Queenie, i will be travel this November 22, and im afraid i will be offload in immigration for being a solo traveller.. I have dreamed to visit taipei.. I will spend my 10 days vacation in taipei, to explore and enjoy the places.. And experience the street foods..

Hi Jane! You won’t be singled out at immigration for being a solo traveller – I didn’t! I flew into Hualien and Taichung and out of Taipei and nothing happened. There is a big culture of solo travelling in Taiwan – it is very common. Hope this helps! 🙂

I am in Taiwan now as well… though not exactly solo (I brought my 11 year old daughter with me, as we are like best friends & I’ve been to Taiwan several times before and wanted to give her a world traveler itch)!

We’re here for approximately two months (got here on the 22nd of October & leaving late December) and we’ve been quite a few places already! Our “Basecamp” is in Beitou (between Beitou and Xingbeitou MRT Stations) because my aunt has a home there but I also have family in other parts of Taipei and Taichung! If there’s anyone who will be here and wants to meet up, feel free to say hello!

One big suggestion I have is to reserve a prepaid sim card or pocket WiFi and be sure to have extra battery packs! Initially I was relying on public WiFi and a “plug in to wall” portable router which became impossible to deal with when I needed Google translate or GPS. I got all 3 items from ivideo which locals don’t necessarily know about because their US prices and website are completely different than their site for locals. I got a “home router” for my daughter to use for her online schooling which was still super cheap and very fast for about $25/[email protected] and we got the pocket WiFi with extended battery for $28-32/month (I forget which) and then I ended up ditching the pocket WiFi for sim cards 15 days (FYI – you can get it for up to 30 is available even though the site says 15)…for two sim cards with unlimited 4G data and no phone service (we use line/Skype/Google voice/FB messenger/iMessages) it was only like $19! The prices were all advertised as higher (i.e. the Sim card said $1.4/day but checkout price was significantly lower and same for the pocket WiFi! #BONUS

Find me @DebraInVegas on IG, iCloud, FB, Snapchat etc…

Hi Debra, thank you for all the great information! I also get a SIM card while I am in Taiwan. It is pretty cheap and very reliable. It is a great way to stay in touch. I also use it to tether it to my laptop although there are many places with free wifi. Thanks again for your comment! 🙂

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