Taiwan is just a short 3–4 hour flight from Japan and offers a unique blend of beautiful nature, rich history, and world-renowned cuisine. With its safety and strong cultural affinity with Japan, it’s the perfect destination even for first-time travelers. This article presents a ranking of the most popular destinations in Taiwan among Japanese tourists, revealing the charm behind each one.
The Appeal of Traveling to Taiwan
The greatest charm of Taiwan lies in its diverse experiences. It is a modern and vibrant cityscape seamlessly coexisting with traditional temples, old markets, and historical alleys. Food is at the heart of its culture, and tasting the local dishes—from bustling night markets to elegant teahouses—is one of the most enjoyable parts of any trip. Moreover, Taiwan’s natural scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, offering different landscapes from north to south.
| Key Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| A Gourmet Paradise | From street food to fine dining, Taiwan satisfies every palate |
| Spectacular Nature | Experience breathtaking views at Alishan or Taroko Gorge |
| Rich History & Culture | Explore cultural gems like the National Palace Museum, Jiufen, and Tainan |
| Easy Access | Numerous direct flights from Japan to major Taiwanese cities |
| Safe & Friendly | A welcoming, Japan-friendly country ideal for first-time travelers |
Top 30 Tourist Destinations in Taiwan
No.1 Jiufen
The red lanterns and narrow stairways of Jiufen create a magical and nostalgic atmosphere that captures every visitor’s heart. Once a prosperous gold-mining town, it is now famous as the inspiration for Spirited Away. In the evening, the town glows warmly under lantern light, offering one of Taiwan’s most photogenic views.
No.2 Taipei 101
The iconic 508-meter skyscraper stands as a symbol of modern Taiwan. From its observation deck, you can see the entire city of Taipei, with the night view being particularly breathtaking. Inside the building are luxury boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, making it a one-stop destination for sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
No.3 Shilin Night Market
The largest and most famous night market in Taiwan, Shilin is a paradise for food lovers. The air is filled with the aroma of Taiwanese street foods like pepper buns, fried chicken, and bubble tea. It’s the best place to experience local life and enjoy affordable, delicious eats.
No.4 National Palace Museum
Recognized as one of the world’s four greatest museums, it houses over 700,000 priceless Chinese imperial treasures. Highlights include the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat-Shaped Stone. Visitors can learn about centuries of art and history through well-curated exhibits and multilingual explanations.
No.5 Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
This grand white and blue building is one of Taiwan’s most iconic landmarks. The changing of the guard ceremony held several times daily is a must-see, drawing many tourists. Surrounded by a beautifully landscaped park, it’s a tranquil yet awe-inspiring space that reflects Taiwan’s modern history.
No.6 Longshan Temple
The oldest temple in Taipei, Longshan Temple is deeply cherished by locals. It’s said to bring good luck in love, business, and health, and the intricate carvings and detailed architecture demonstrate Taiwan’s devotion to traditional craftsmanship and spirituality.
No.7 Tamsui
A coastal town known for its romantic sunset views over the river, Tamsui is perfect for leisurely strolls. The old street offers local snacks and souvenirs, while riverside cafes provide a peaceful setting to relax and enjoy the view.
No.8 Shifen
Famous for its sky lantern festival, where visitors write wishes on paper lanterns and release them into the night sky. Watching hundreds of glowing lanterns float upwards is a moving and unforgettable experience that represents hope and happiness.
No.9 Rainbow Village (Taichung)
A small but colorful village painted by a retired soldier, every wall is covered in bright, cheerful art. It’s a popular photo spot and symbol of creativity, beloved by young travelers and influencers.
No.10 Lotus Pond (Kaohsiung)
Known for the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, this scenic area features a tranquil lake surrounded by temples and gardens. Enter through the dragon’s mouth and exit the tiger’s to bring good fortune, according to local belief.
Rankings 11–30
| Rank | Destination | Area | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | Alishan | Chiayi | Famous for its sunrise and sea of clouds |
| 12 | Tainan | Tainan | Taiwan’s oldest city with rich history and gourmet cuisine |
| 13 | Gaomei Wetlands | Taichung | Often called the “Taiwanese Uyuni Salt Flats” |
| 14 | Sun Moon Lake | Nantou | A picturesque resort area surrounded by mountains |
| 15 | Lukang Old Street | Changhua | Preserves traditional architecture and crafts |
| 16 | Kenting National Park | Pingtung | White beaches and blue seas at Taiwan’s southern tip |
| 17 | Taroko Gorge | Hualien | Stunning marble cliffs and hiking trails |
| 18 | Maokong Gondola | Taipei | Offers panoramic views of tea plantations and the city skyline |
| 19 | Ximending | Taipei | Youth culture, fashion, and street entertainment |
| 20 | Yongkang Street | Taipei | Stylish cafes and Taiwanese dessert shops |
| 21 | Nanjichang Night Market | Taipei | Authentic local food at great prices |
| 22 | Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf | New Taipei | Romantic sunset view from the Lover’s Bridge |
| 23 | Baguashan | Changhua | Famous for its massive Buddha statue and scenic viewpoint |
| 24 | Gold Ecological Park | New Taipei | Restored historical mining village |
| 25 | Yingge Old Street | New Taipei | Taiwan’s pottery and ceramic art center |
| 26 | Yilan | Yilan | Natural hot springs and lush landscapes |
| 27 | Chiayi | Chiayi | Starting point for the Alishan Forest Railway |
| 28 | Miaoli | Miaoli | Preserves Hakka culture and traditional festivals |
| 29 | Daxi Old Street | Taoyuan | Baroque-style architecture and local snacks |
| 30 | Penghu Islands | Offshore | Crystal-clear waters and unique island culture |
Travel Tips for Enjoying Taiwan
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Best Travel Seasons | Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal for sightseeing |
| Transportation | Use the MRT (subway) and High-Speed Rail for easy access between cities |
| Currency & Payment | The local currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD); electronic payments are widely accepted |
| Language | Mandarin is official, but Japanese and English are understood in most tourist areas |
Must-Try Taiwanese Foods
Food is the soul of Taiwan, and exploring its local flavors is an adventure in itself. Each region offers unique dishes, making food tours one of the highlights of any visit.
| Dish | Description | Where to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice) | Savory pork belly simmered in soy sauce and served over rice | Taipei, Tainan |
| Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) | Juicy dumplings filled with flavorful broth | Din Tai Fung and local restaurants |
| Pepper Bun | Crispy baked bun with spicy pork filling | Shilin Night Market |
| Mango Shaved Ice | Taiwan’s signature dessert, rich in tropical sweetness | Yongkang Street, Taichung |
| Bubble Milk Tea | The world-famous Taiwanese drink, best enjoyed fresh | Various shops across Taipei |
Recommended Souvenirs from Taiwan
| Souvenir | Feature | Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| Pineapple Cake | The most famous Taiwanese souvenir with a refined sweetness | ★★★★★ |
| High-Mountain Tea | Aromatic and relaxing, perfect for tea lovers | ★★★★☆ |
| Dried Fruits | Naturally sweet and preservative-free | ★★★★☆ |
| Mullet Roe (Karasumi) | A luxurious delicacy often used as a gift | ★★★★☆ |
| Taiwanese Skincare Products | Natural and gentle ingredients gaining global attention | ★★★★☆ |
Conclusion
Taiwan is a travel destination that truly has it all—delicious cuisine, breathtaking nature, deep-rooted culture, and the warmth of its people. From the romantic glow of Jiufen, to the energy of Shilin Night Market, and the panoramic beauty of Taipei 101, every corner offers a unique experience.
Whether for a short getaway or an extended stay, Taiwan provides the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re planning your next overseas trip, choose “Taiwan – Close Yet Deep”, and discover why so many travelers fall in love with it again and again.
