Taiwan Explorer: Lanterns, Lakes & Skyline Views

Arrival in the Capital

Arrive in Taipei at any time. Getting from Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to the city center is straightforward via metro or bus. After settling into your hotel, the first evening is best spent on an orientation walk through your neighborhood to get your bearings and find a local spot for dinner.

Temples, Monuments, and Skyline Views

A full day exploring Taipei begins by navigating the city’s efficient metro system. A logical route connects several key sites: start at the intricate Longshan Temple, one of the city's oldest places of worship. From there, it's a short ride to the immense Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a landmark of modern Taiwanese history. The morning culminates with a short, steep hike up Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) for its classic view of the Taipei 101 skyscraper. The afternoon is open for independent exploration—perhaps diving into the city's food scene or visiting one of its many museums.

High-Speed Rail to an Indigenous Heart

The day begins with a high-speed train south to Taichung, trading Taipei's urban density for the mountains. From Taichung, an overland drive of about 78km leads into the central highlands and to the Shuanglong Bunun Village. Here, you can connect with the local indigenous community, participating in a traditional name-giving ceremony and learning about their culture. A short hike leads to the Shuanglong Rainbow Suspension Bridge, the highest in Taiwan, with views over the Shuanglong Waterfalls. After lunch in the village, the journey continues with a short drive to Sun Moon Lake, arriving in the evening.