Taiwan Adventures: A Guide to Sights & Nightlife

Taiwan, often dubbed as the “Heart of Asia”, is a dazzling fusion of modernity and tradition, with breathtaking natural landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re strolling through bustling night markets, hiking in the Taroko Gorge, or visiting temples in Taipei, Taiwan offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveler. This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to explore Taiwan, including the top places to visit, things to do, and tips on the vibrant Taiwanese nightlife.

History of Taiwan

• Indigenous Peoples: Taiwan was originally inhabited by indigenous groups for thousands of years, each with unique cultures and languages.
• Colonial Period: In the 17th century, the Dutch and Spanish briefly colonized Taiwan before it came under Chinese Ming settlers.
• Qing Dynasty: Taiwan became part of the Qing Dynasty in the late 1600s after several centuries of foreign control.
• Japanese Rule: In 1895, Taiwan was ceded to Japan after the First Sino-Japanese War, leading to industrialization and cultural influence.
• Republic of China: Post-World War II, Taiwan was handed over to the Republic of China after the Chinese Civil War.
• Democratic Transformation: Taiwan transitioned from an authoritarian regime to a democratic society, becoming a leading Asian economy while preserving its rich cultural identity.

Seamless Connectivity in Taiwan – Voye Global

• Reliable Connectivity in Taiwan: Voye Global eSIM offers seamless mobile data coverage across Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, and other key cities in Taiwan.
• High-Speed Data: Enjoy fast 4G/5G data to navigate Taiwan’s vibrant streets, access translation apps, share photos, and stay in touch with friends and family.
• No Local SIM Cards Needed: Skip the hassle of buying a local SIM card. With Voye Global, you can activate your eSIM before arriving in Taiwan and start using it as soon as you land.
• Affordable and Transparent Pricing: Get flexible data plans with transparent pricing that allow you to stay connected without the fear of roaming charges.
• Explore Taiwan with Ease: Whether you’re hiking in Taroko Gorge, visiting night markets in Taipei, or relaxing on the beaches of Sun Moon Lake, Voye Global eSIM ensures you stay connected throughout your adventure in Taiwan.

Things to Do in Taiwan

1. Visit Taipei 101

• The iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Take an elevator to the observation deck for a breathtaking experience. You can also visit the shopping mall and dine in world-class restaurants.

2. Explore Taroko Gorge

• One of the most stunning natural wonders in Taiwan, Taroko Gorge is a national park famous for its marble cliffs, rivers, and hiking trails. Don’t miss the Swallow Grotto and Eternal Spring Shrine.

3. Relax in Hot Springs

• Taiwan is home to numerous hot springs, particularly in Beitou (near Taipei) and Wulai. Relax in natural geothermal waters and enjoy the serene ambiance of these health-boosting retreats.

4. Visit the National Palace Museum

• Explore the National Palace Museum in Taipei, home to a vast collection of over 700,000 ancient Chinese artifacts, including paintings, ceramics, and historical treasures. It’s an essential stop for history buffs.

5. Discover the Night Markets

• Taiwan is famous for its night markets, offering an authentic experience of street food and local culture. Visit Shilin Night Market in Taipei or Liuhe Night Market in Kaohsiung for the best shopping, snacks, and entertainment.

Places to Visit in Taiwan

1. Taipei: A City of Innovation and Tradition

• What to See: Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, Longshan Temple, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
• What to Do: Stroll through Ximending for shopping, enjoy the nightlife in Taipei’s East District, and experience local tea ceremonies in Maokong.

2. Kaohsiung: A Port City with Charm

• What to See: Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center, and the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts.
• What to Do: Explore the Formosa Boulevard MRT Station, known for its beautiful glass dome, and visit the Cijin Island for its fresh seafood and beach views.

3. Tainan: Taiwan’s Ancient Capital

• What to See: Chihkan Tower, Koxinga Shrine, Anping Tree House.
• What to Do: Wander around the historic streets of Tainan, sample local delicacies like coffin bread and Tainan-style noodles, and visit Fort Zeelandia.

4. Sun Moon Lake: A Serene Escape

• What to See: Sun Moon Lake, Ci’en Pagoda, and Lalu Island.
• What to Do: Take a boat tour around the lake, rent a bike to cycle along the lake’s scenic paths, and enjoy the peace and quiet of Taiwan’s largest freshwater lake.

5. Alishan: A Mountain Paradise

• What to See: The famous Alishan sunrise, Alishan Forest Railway, and Sisters Ponds.
• What to Do: Hike in the Alishan National Scenic Area, ride the Alishan Railway, and watch the sunrise over the mountains – it’s a must-see natural wonder.

Taiwan Nightlife: Experience the Excitement After Dark

1. Taipei: The Heart of Taiwan’s Nightlife

• What to Do: Taipei has a vibrant nightlife, with options ranging from karaoke bars, nightclubs, and lounges. ATT 4 Fun and Riverside Live House are great spots to experience local music and enjoy drinks.
• Must-Visit Areas: Xinyi District for trendy clubs, Zhongxiao Dunhua for chic bars and pubs, and Taipei’s night markets for food and entertainment.

2. Kaohsiung: A Relaxed Vibe with Great Bars

• What to Do: Kaohsiung offers a more relaxed nightlife scene. Head to Liuhe Night Market for street food, or check out the Harbor View bars and Karaoke lounges. You can also enjoy a stroll at the Love River with its beautiful night lights.

3. Tainan: A Mix of Traditional and Modern

• What to Do: Tainan is home to cozy bars, traditional teahouses, and old-school night markets. Visit Shao Luang for unique cocktails and enjoy live music at Tainan’s jazz bars.

4. Taichung: A Nightlife Hub for Young Locals

• What to Do: Enjoy the vibrant scene in Fengjia Night Market, where you can shop and eat until late. Check out The Warehouse for electronic music or enjoy a drink at the rooftop bars in the West District.

Must-Try Taiwanese Delicacies

1. Beef Noodle Soup

• Taiwan’s signature dish, made with tender beef, rich broth, and noodles, typically served with pickled mustard greens.

2. Bubble Tea (Boba Tea)

• Originating in Taiwan, bubble tea is a sweet drink with chewy tapioca pearls, available in various flavors like milk tea, fruit tea, and matcha.

3. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)

• Steamed dumplings filled with piping hot soup, typically served with vinegar and ginger.

4. Taiwanese Fried Chicken

• Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, Taiwanese fried chicken is a must-try street food. It’s often marinated with soy sauce and spices.

5. Stinky Tofu

• A fermented, deep-fried tofu dish that is a beloved snack for those who are adventurous in food.

6. Gua Bao (Taiwanese Hamburger)

• A soft steamed bun filled with braised pork belly, pickled vegetables, and peanuts.

How to Travel Around Taiwan?

1. By Train

• Taiwan has an excellent train system, especially the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR), which connects major cities like Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Tainan in no time.

2. By Metro (MRT)

• Taipei and Kaohsiung have efficient metro systems that are affordable and easy to navigate.

3. By Bus

• Long-distance buses are available and are an affordable way to get around Taiwan. City buses are also a convenient way to explore different areas of the city.

4. By Bike

• Taiwan is a bike-friendly country, with bike-sharing systems in cities like Taipei. You can also enjoy scenic bike rides along the coast or in mountain areas like Sun Moon Lake.

5. By Taxi

• Taxis are widely available, but ride-hailing apps like Uber are also common in major cities.

What to Pack for Taiwan

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Taiwan’s cities are best explored on foot.
• Rain Gear: Taiwan’s climate can be humid and rainy, especially during the monsoon season (May to October). Bring an umbrella or rain jacket.
• Power Adapter: Taiwan uses Type A and B plugs, so don’t forget to bring the appropriate adapter.
• Sunscreen: Protect yourself from Taiwan’s strong sun, especially in the summer months.
• Mosquito Repellent: If you’re visiting rural areas or the Amazon, be sure to pack some to protect yourself from mosquitoes.

Apps to Have in Taiwan

1. Google Maps: For navigation around Taiwan’s cities and rural areas.
2. EasyCard: The app for rechargeable travel cards used for MRT, buses, and even taxis.
3. Uber: Available in major cities, providing an easy ride-hailing service.
4. Taiwan Railway: For checking train schedules and booking tickets for the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR).
5. Voye Global eSIM: Stay connected while you travel around Taiwan. Get reliable, affordable mobile data for navigation, social sharing, and communication without the hassle of local SIM cards.

Your Taiwanese Adventure Awaits

From the vibrant city streets of Taipei to the natural beauty of Taroko Gorge and Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan offers an incredible mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. With its world-class night markets, delicious food, and rich history, Taiwan is a country that will captivate your heart and senses. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, hiking scenic mountains, or sampling local street food, Taiwan promises to deliver a truly unforgettable experience.

Stay connected throughout your journey with Voye Global eSIM, making sure you can navigate with ease, share your adventures, and stay in touch with loved ones.

Book your ticket to Taiwan today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!