Foreigners in Taiwan - 外國人在臺灣
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        • Taiwan Cycling Guide – The Ultimate Guide to the Bicycle Kingdom 台灣騎自行車指南
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        • The Ultimate Travel Guide to Taipei 臺北旅遊指南 >
          • Yangmingshan National Park 陽明山懶人包 – Your Complete Travel Guide
          • Ultimate Guide to Taipei’s Old Streets 台北老街指南
          • The Ultimate Travel Guide to Pingxi and Shifen 平溪懶人包
          • The Ultimate One-Day Taipei Itinerary 一天在臺北怎麽旅遊
          • The Ultimate Guide to Taipei’s Night Markets 臺北夜市指南
          • The Most Awesome Day Trips from Taipei 台北一日遊景點
          • The Complete 2025 Beitou Hot Springs Guide: Soak Like Royalty 北投溫泉英文指南
          • The Best Views of the Taipei 101 (Best Places to see New Year’s Fireworks) 欣賞101煙火的最佳地點
          • The Best Beaches Near Taipei: North Taiwan’s Top 10 台北前10名的沙灘 >
            • Hualien Travel Guide 花蓮懶人包 – The Most Beautiful Part of Taiwan >
              • What to See and Do in Hualien Besides Taroko Gorge
              • Ultimate Taroko National Park Travel Guide – Explore the Deepest Marble Gorge on Earth 太魯閣國家公園懶人包
              • Taroko Gorge Travel Guide (太魯閣) – Taiwan’s Most Breathtaking Geological Feature
          • Tamsui Travel Guide – Taipei’s Amazing Historic Riverside Town 淡水最佳的景點
          • Taipei’s Waterfall Guide – Explore the City’s Most Breathtaking Falls 台北瀑布指南
          • Taipei Museum Guide – Discover the Best Museums in Taipei 臺北博物館指南
          • Taipei City Hiking Guide – The Best Hikes in Taipei 台灣爬山指南
          • Taipei 101: The Ultimate Guide to Taiwan’s Tallest Tower (臺北101)
          • Shifen Waterfall and Old Street Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
          • Qingtiangang Grassland: See Amazing Views and Buffalo Close-Up 擎天崗
          • Our Travel Guide to Wulai – Taipei’s Amazing Mountain Paradise (烏來旅遊指南)
          • Jiufen Old Street – Taiwan’s Amazing Mountainside Village 九份老街
          • Dihua Street and Dadaocheng – Taipei’s Amazing Historical Hipster Paradise 迪化街及大稻埕
          • Children and Parent’s Travel Guide to Taipei 小孩及家長台北旅遊指南
        • Taiwan’s Northern Coast Travel Guide – Discover a Beautiful and Amazing Coastline 台灣北海岸懶人包 >
          • Yehliu Geopark – The Amazing Crown Jewel of Taiwan’s Northern Coast 野柳地質公園
        • Keelung Travel Guide – Best Places to See in the Harbor City 基隆旅遊指南
        • Taoyuan Travel Guide – More Than Just an Airport City 桃園旅游懶人包
        • Travel Guide to Hsinchu 新竹懶人包 – Taiwan’s Charming Tech Hub
        • Miaoli Travel Guide – Discover this Amazing Mountainous Backwater 苗栗旅遊懶人包 >
          • Huoyanshan
        • Taichung Travel Guide 台中旅遊懶人包 – Discover Central Taiwan’s Hidden Secrets
        • Gaomei Wetlands – Complete Guide to Taichung’s Amazing Wildlife Area 高美濕地
        • Nantou Travel Guide – Taiwan’s Most Stunning Mountain Getaway 南投縣懶人包
        • Sun Moon Lake Travel Guide – Taiwan’s Most Beautiful Lake 日月潭旅游指南
        • Changhua Travel Guide – Fall in Love with Taiwan’s Historical Central County 彰化懒人包
        • Chiayi Travel Guide – Best Places to Visit, Eat & Explore 嘉義懶人包
        • Alishan 阿里山 – Taiwan’s Ultimate Mountain Destination
        • Alishan Forest Railway Travel Guide (阿里山森林鐵路) – Taiwan’s Most Scenic Rail Line
        • Yunlin Travel Guide 雲林旅遊懶人包 – A Rural Wonderland in Southwest Taiwan
        • Tainan Travel Guide: Discover Taiwan’s Oldest City & Ultimate Foodie Paradise – 臺南懶人包
        • Travel Guide to Kaohsiung – Southern Taiwan’s Most Vibrant City 高雄旅遊懶人包 >
          • Tianliao Moon World Travel Guide 田寮月世界 – Taiwan’s Out-of-this-World Geopark
          • Qijin (Cijin) Island Travel Guide – Koahsiung’s Best Beach Destination 旗津懶人包
          • Maolin Travel Guide 茂林旅游懶人包 – Our Favorite Place in Taiwan
          • Monkey Mountain (Shoushan) 壽山 – Taiwan’s Best Monkey-Spotting Location
          • Lotus Pond Travel Guide 蓮池潭 – Kaohsiung’s Scenic Temple Area
          • Cheng Ching Lake Ultimate Travel Guide 澄清湖完整導覽
          • Pingtung Travel Guide – Explore Taiwan’s Sunniest County 屏東旅遊懶人包
          • Kenting Travel Guide 墾丁懶人包 – The Best Beaches in Taiwan
          • Travel Guide to Yilan 宜蘭懶人包 – Beaches, Mountains, Hot Springs, and more
          • Guide to Toucheng 頭城懶人包 – Yilan’s Amazing Seaside Paradise
          • Taipingshan Travel Guide 太平山 – Discover Yilan’s Amazing Mountain Scenery
          • Our Guide to Taiwan’s East Coast 台灣東海岸指南 – Taiwan’s Most Beautiful Coastline
          • Taiwan’s East Rift Valley (Huadong Valley) Travel Guide 花東縱谷旅遊指南 – The Most Beautiful Places in Taiwan
          • Taitung Travel Guide – Top Things to Do in Taiwan’s Outdoor Tourism Paradise 台東懶人包
          • Taiwan National Public Holiday Guide 台灣國定假日指南
          • The Ultimate Taiwan Hotel Guide 臺灣飯店指南
          • The Ultimate Taiwan SIM Card, eSIM, and Portable Wi-Fi Guide
          • The Ultimate Taiwan Transportation Guide 台灣交通常見問題
          • The Ultimate Taiwan Butterfly Watching Guide 台灣賞蝴蝶指南
          • The Ultimate Foreigner’s Guide for Surviving in Taiwan 外國人在台灣存活指南
  • Home
  • Travel Guides
    • Full Taiwan Travel Guide
    • Outer Islands >
      • All Outer Islands
      • Xiaoliuqiu >
        • Xiaoliuqiu Ferry Guide
        • Xiaoliuqiu Snorkeling Guide
      • Penghu >
        • Shanshui Beach
        • Shili Beach
        • Aimen Beach
        • Serpent Head Mountain
        • Fongguei Cave
        • Moses Parting Sea
        • Penghu Great Bridge
        • Penghu Best Beaches
      • Green Island
      • Orchid Island
      • Kinmen
      • Matsu
      • Turtle Island
      • Keelung Islet
    • Taipei >
      • Full Guide to Taipei
      • Family and Kids Guide to Taipei
      • Beitou Hot Springs >
        • Beitou Hotels
        • Beitou Food Guide
        • Marshal Zen Garden
        • Beitou Public Hot Spring
        • Beitou Museum
        • Beitou Library
        • Xinbeitou Station
        • Puji Temple
        • Thermal Valley
        • Beitou Hot Spring Museum
        • Ketagalan Cultural Center
        • Beitou Park
        • Willie's Deli
      • Taipei 101
      • Museum Guide
      • Night Market Guide
      • Old Street Guide
      • Best Beaches
      • Waterfall Guide
      • Hiking Guide
      • Best Views
      • Parents and Kids Guide
      • Best Day Trips
      • One Day Itenerary
      • Nangang
    • Northern Taiwan >
      • Keelung
      • Hsinchu
      • Taoyuan
      • Northern Coast
      • Yangmingshan
      • Pingxi Railway
      • Tamsui
      • Wulai
      • Heping Island
      • Four Furthest Points
      • Shiding
    • Southern Taiwan >
      • Kenting
      • Chiayi
      • Tainan
      • Kaohsiung
      • Pingtung
      • Maolin
      • Lotus Pond
      • Moon World
      • Cheng Ching Lake
      • Qijin
    • Eastern Taiwan >
      • Taroko Gorge
      • Tapingshan
      • Yilan
      • Hualien
      • Taitung
      • Taroko National Park
      • Toucheng
      • East Coast
      • East Rift Valley
      • Sanxiantai
    • Central Taiwan >
      • Sun Moon Lake
      • Alishan
      • Alishan Forest Railway
      • Nantou
      • Taichung
      • Miaoli
      • Changhua
      • Yunlin
    • Transportation >
      • Car Rental
      • Scooter/Moped Rental
      • Cycling Guide
      • Transportation FAQ
      • Circling Taiwan by Car
    • Hotels / Accomodation >
      • Hotel FAQ
      • Taiwan Hotel Map
      • Long Term Hotels
      • Camping
    • Food >
      • Taiwan Food Guide
      • Taiwan Fruit Guide
      • Taiwan Mango Guide
      • Hot Pot Buffet
      • Taiwan Dessert Guide
    • Taiwan Travel Maps
    • Foreigner Survival Guide
  • Taiwan FAQ
    • Daily Life >
      • Apartment Rental
      • Banking
      • Credit Cards
      • Giving Birth
      • Buying a Car
      • Buying a House
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      • Daily Life FAQ
      • Driver's License Test
      • Healthcare
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      • Preschool
      • Retirement
      • School / Education
      • Tax
      • Work FAQ
    • Immigration >
      • APRC
      • ARC Number Change
      • Alien Digital Certificate
      • Employment Gold Card
      • Immigration / Visa FAQ
      • Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa FAQ
    • Geography and Weather >
      • Geography
      • Time and Date
      • Weather and Climate
    • Travel >
      • Car Rental
      • Camping
      • Cycling
      • Drone Flying
      • Foreigner Survival Guide
      • Hotel FAQ
      • International Driving Permit
      • Long Term Hotels
      • Sailing
      • Scooter/Moped Rental
      • Taipei FAQ
      • Tourist Sites FAQ
      • Transportation FAQ
    • People and Culture >
      • Economy / Living Standards
      • Culture FAQ
      • Taiwan Festival Guide
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      • Funeral and Death Rites
      • Politics
      • Taiwan Snow Chasing Guide
      • 228 Peace Memorial Day Guide
    • Full Taiwan FAQ List
  • Blog
    • Blog Feed
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    • Taiwan Travel Blog
    • Global Expat Travel Blog >
      • Hakka Kitchen
      • Bank Comparison
      • Snow Hakka
      • Mid-Autumn Festival
      • Ghost Month
      • Taiwan Vs. Thailand
      • Morakot
      • Gaemi
      • Mango Guide
      • Sand Fest
      • TD 19
      • Krathon
      • Typhoon Kong-Rey
      • Shen'ao Railbike
      • Museum of World Religions
      • Nanjichang Night Market
      • Popsmile Tourist Factory
      • Taiwan Science Center
      • Taiwan Better Than Thailand
      • Hualien Besides Taroko
      • Taiwan Car Rental Guide
      • Lunar/Chinese New Year Guide
      • Taiwan Lantern Festival Guide
      • Tomb Sweeping Festival
      • Taiwan Cherry Blossom Guide
      • Children's Day
      • Firefly Guide
  • Maps
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  • About
    • About
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Twitter (X)
    • Instagram
    • YouTube
    • Current Time and Date in Taiwan
    • Privacy
    • More >
      • Taiwan Travel Blog Posts >
        • Guide to Taiwan
        • Taiwan’s Outer Islands. >
          • Turtle Island (Guishan Island)
          • Green Island 綠島
          • Xiaoliuqiu Island (小琉球)
          • Keelung Islet (基隆嶼)
          • Orchid Island (Lanyu) 蘭嶼
          • Kinmen Islands Guide
          • Matsu Islands
          • Penghu Guide
        • Taiwan Cycling Guide – The Ultimate Guide to the Bicycle Kingdom 台灣騎自行車指南
        • The Ultimate Taiwan Scooter/Motorcycle Rental Guide 在臺灣租機車
        • The Ultimate Taiwan Car Rental Guide – Save Money on Your Next Trip 臺灣租汽車指南
        • Camping in Taiwan Guide – Everything you Need to Know 在台灣露營常見問題
        • Taiwan Blogroll – Top English Blogs to Follow for All Things Taiwan
        • The Ultimate Travel Guide to Taipei 臺北旅遊指南 >
          • Yangmingshan National Park 陽明山懶人包 – Your Complete Travel Guide
          • Ultimate Guide to Taipei’s Old Streets 台北老街指南
          • The Ultimate Travel Guide to Pingxi and Shifen 平溪懶人包
          • The Ultimate One-Day Taipei Itinerary 一天在臺北怎麽旅遊
          • The Ultimate Guide to Taipei’s Night Markets 臺北夜市指南
          • The Most Awesome Day Trips from Taipei 台北一日遊景點
          • The Complete 2025 Beitou Hot Springs Guide: Soak Like Royalty 北投溫泉英文指南
          • The Best Views of the Taipei 101 (Best Places to see New Year’s Fireworks) 欣賞101煙火的最佳地點
          • The Best Beaches Near Taipei: North Taiwan’s Top 10 台北前10名的沙灘 >
            • Hualien Travel Guide 花蓮懶人包 – The Most Beautiful Part of Taiwan >
              • What to See and Do in Hualien Besides Taroko Gorge
              • Ultimate Taroko National Park Travel Guide – Explore the Deepest Marble Gorge on Earth 太魯閣國家公園懶人包
              • Taroko Gorge Travel Guide (太魯閣) – Taiwan’s Most Breathtaking Geological Feature
          • Tamsui Travel Guide – Taipei’s Amazing Historic Riverside Town 淡水最佳的景點
          • Taipei’s Waterfall Guide – Explore the City’s Most Breathtaking Falls 台北瀑布指南
          • Taipei Museum Guide – Discover the Best Museums in Taipei 臺北博物館指南
          • Taipei City Hiking Guide – The Best Hikes in Taipei 台灣爬山指南
          • Taipei 101: The Ultimate Guide to Taiwan’s Tallest Tower (臺北101)
          • Shifen Waterfall and Old Street Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
          • Qingtiangang Grassland: See Amazing Views and Buffalo Close-Up 擎天崗
          • Our Travel Guide to Wulai – Taipei’s Amazing Mountain Paradise (烏來旅遊指南)
          • Jiufen Old Street – Taiwan’s Amazing Mountainside Village 九份老街
          • Dihua Street and Dadaocheng – Taipei’s Amazing Historical Hipster Paradise 迪化街及大稻埕
          • Children and Parent’s Travel Guide to Taipei 小孩及家長台北旅遊指南
        • Taiwan’s Northern Coast Travel Guide – Discover a Beautiful and Amazing Coastline 台灣北海岸懶人包 >
          • Yehliu Geopark – The Amazing Crown Jewel of Taiwan’s Northern Coast 野柳地質公園
        • Keelung Travel Guide – Best Places to See in the Harbor City 基隆旅遊指南
        • Taoyuan Travel Guide – More Than Just an Airport City 桃園旅游懶人包
        • Travel Guide to Hsinchu 新竹懶人包 – Taiwan’s Charming Tech Hub
        • Miaoli Travel Guide – Discover this Amazing Mountainous Backwater 苗栗旅遊懶人包 >
          • Huoyanshan
        • Taichung Travel Guide 台中旅遊懶人包 – Discover Central Taiwan’s Hidden Secrets
        • Gaomei Wetlands – Complete Guide to Taichung’s Amazing Wildlife Area 高美濕地
        • Nantou Travel Guide – Taiwan’s Most Stunning Mountain Getaway 南投縣懶人包
        • Sun Moon Lake Travel Guide – Taiwan’s Most Beautiful Lake 日月潭旅游指南
        • Changhua Travel Guide – Fall in Love with Taiwan’s Historical Central County 彰化懒人包
        • Chiayi Travel Guide – Best Places to Visit, Eat & Explore 嘉義懶人包
        • Alishan 阿里山 – Taiwan’s Ultimate Mountain Destination
        • Alishan Forest Railway Travel Guide (阿里山森林鐵路) – Taiwan’s Most Scenic Rail Line
        • Yunlin Travel Guide 雲林旅遊懶人包 – A Rural Wonderland in Southwest Taiwan
        • Tainan Travel Guide: Discover Taiwan’s Oldest City & Ultimate Foodie Paradise – 臺南懶人包
        • Travel Guide to Kaohsiung – Southern Taiwan’s Most Vibrant City 高雄旅遊懶人包 >
          • Tianliao Moon World Travel Guide 田寮月世界 – Taiwan’s Out-of-this-World Geopark
          • Qijin (Cijin) Island Travel Guide – Koahsiung’s Best Beach Destination 旗津懶人包
          • Maolin Travel Guide 茂林旅游懶人包 – Our Favorite Place in Taiwan
          • Monkey Mountain (Shoushan) 壽山 – Taiwan’s Best Monkey-Spotting Location
          • Lotus Pond Travel Guide 蓮池潭 – Kaohsiung’s Scenic Temple Area
          • Cheng Ching Lake Ultimate Travel Guide 澄清湖完整導覽
          • Pingtung Travel Guide – Explore Taiwan’s Sunniest County 屏東旅遊懶人包
          • Kenting Travel Guide 墾丁懶人包 – The Best Beaches in Taiwan
          • Travel Guide to Yilan 宜蘭懶人包 – Beaches, Mountains, Hot Springs, and more
          • Guide to Toucheng 頭城懶人包 – Yilan’s Amazing Seaside Paradise
          • Taipingshan Travel Guide 太平山 – Discover Yilan’s Amazing Mountain Scenery
          • Our Guide to Taiwan’s East Coast 台灣東海岸指南 – Taiwan’s Most Beautiful Coastline
          • Taiwan’s East Rift Valley (Huadong Valley) Travel Guide 花東縱谷旅遊指南 – The Most Beautiful Places in Taiwan
          • Taitung Travel Guide – Top Things to Do in Taiwan’s Outdoor Tourism Paradise 台東懶人包
          • Taiwan National Public Holiday Guide 台灣國定假日指南
          • The Ultimate Taiwan Hotel Guide 臺灣飯店指南
          • The Ultimate Taiwan SIM Card, eSIM, and Portable Wi-Fi Guide
          • The Ultimate Taiwan Transportation Guide 台灣交通常見問題
          • The Ultimate Taiwan Butterfly Watching Guide 台灣賞蝴蝶指南
          • The Ultimate Foreigner’s Guide for Surviving in Taiwan 外國人在台灣存活指南

Blog Posts

Meiyanshan 美灩山

3/25/2025

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Maiyanshan is a small area on the northeast coast with aquaculture farms. There are interesting rock formations along the beach, and usually large waves here which are mesmerizing to watch. This place also has a few seafood restaurants and is worth a stop on your next trip to the northern coast. ​

Planning your trip to Taipei?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

  • Best time to visit: April to November when the temperatures are nice and the water is warm
  • How to get there: Taiwan High Speed Railway and Inter-City Bus
  • Best places to stay: Fullon Hotel or Hai Xia Your Home
  • Book tours and activities in Taipei on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Background:
Meiyanshan (literally beautiful waves mountain) was formed thousands years ago by the collision of the Philippine and Eurasian Plates. The seaside area is named after Meiyan Mountain which watches over it. Because of its small size and with no other attractions nearby, it is often overlooked as a seaside destination. 

Price:
Free

Hours:
24/7

Tours and Activities:
You can book a Stand Up Paddle Board experience at Jinshawan on Klook here or KKday here. ​
You can book a tour to Taiwan's North Coast on TripAdvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here.

Hotels on Taiwan's Northern Coast:
We recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). 
We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to Get There:
By Bus: Take bus 1811 from Taipei bus station to Meiyanshan stop. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT and buses from Klook here or KKday here. ​You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. 
By Car: Drive on provincial highway 2 out of Keelung to the northeast. The beach area is between Longdong and Ao'di. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
Looking for 
scooter rental in northern Taiwan? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a cycling tour on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map:
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Xinwu Green Tunnel 新屋綠色隧道

3/25/2025

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Xinwu Green Tunnel (aka Xinwu Green Corridor 新屋綠色走廊) is a popular cycling path along the west coast of Taoyuan through a belt of trees that resembles a green tunnel. Here you can enjoy the landscape, find roadside food options, and also understand more about the culture and history of the area. It is one of the most popular cycling destinations in northern Taiwan. ​

Planning your trip to Taoyuan?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

  • Best time to visit: Summer when it is warm and less windy
  • How to get there: Taiwan Railway and Inter-City Bus
  • Best places to stay: Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport or Fullon Hotel Taoyuan
  • Book tours and activities in Taoyuan on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Historical Background:
Since prehistoric times, the area around Xinwu was home to indigenous Taiwanese plains aborigines. There was no large-scale Dutch or Chinese settlement in the area during the Dutch rule of Taiwan.
During the Qing Dynasty, Chinese settlers began to settle the area and begin farming. One prominent family that came to settle in Xinwu was the Fanjiang family. Later, the clan expanded further and further inland and created new homes, Qixinwu (起新屋) in Chinese, and the name Xinwu for the area stuck. 
You can still visit the Fanjiang Family's ancestral home dating back to the Qing Dynasty in Xinwu, however, it is not covered in this blog. 
Yong-an Fishing Harbor was established in 1953 and is a secondary-class port. Before that, it was known as Kaotouwu Port (崁頭屋港) which dates back to the 1800s during the Qing Dynasty, located on the north side of the mouth of the Shezi River.
Originally a small fishing port, Yong-an Fishing Port has expanded over the years, including dredging channels and extending to allow for larger fishing vessels. 
The Xinwu bike path is about 4 KM long and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. 
The area is usually busy on holidays and weekends. 

Price:
Free

Hours:
24/7

Where to stay:
Looking for a hotel in Taoyuan? We recommend the Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport which has great service and is conveniently located right next to Taoyuan Airport, the MRT, and HSR station (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here).  
We also recommend the Fullon Hotel Taoyuan which also has great service and is located in downtown Taoyuan City (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here).  
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

Activities in Taoyuan:
Ice Skating, Rock Climbing, Mountain Climbing, Cycling, High Ropes, Ziplining, Archery, Vietnamese BBQ, Batting Cages, Glamping, Van Camping, Photo Shoot, Turkish Mosaic DIY, Thai Massage, Painting, Baking, Go Karting, Imax Theater, Japanese Style Buffet, Tourist Factory Experience, peach and fruit picking, Ring-making DIY, handmade popsicle DIY, and more on on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. 

How to get there:
By Car: Take expressway 61 to Taoyuan and take the exit near Xinwu. The Green Tunnel is just west of the expressway. There is limited free parking near the green tunnel and Yongan Harbor, and also paid parking nearby. The green tunnel is about 3 KM down the coast from Yongan Harbor. 
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search  Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. 
By Scooter: Take provincial highway 15 south from Taipei and stop at the Green Tunnel or Yongan Harbor.
The green tunnel is about 3 KM down the coast from Yongan Harbor. 
Looking for scooter rental in Taoyuan? Search Klook here or KKday here to look for options.
By Bus: From Zhongli TRA Station, you can take bus 5027A west to the harbor. The green tunnel is a about 3 KM down the coast from Yongan Harbor.  You can book tickets to travel to Taoyuan via inter-city bus on Klook here. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA)  on Klook here.
By Bicycle: Once you arrive at Yongan Harbor, there are many bike rental places available at the mouth of the harbor and along the bike path. Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a cycling tour on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 
​
​
Map:
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Shilin Night Market 士林夜市

3/12/2025

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Shilin Night Market (aka Shihlin Night Market) is the largest night market in Taipei and also one of the most popular. Full of delicious street food, small hole-in-the-wall restaurants, souvenirs, and clothes, it is a great destination to experience Taiwan's night market culture.

Planning your trip to Taipei?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

  • Best time to visit: March-May, and October - November when the temperatures are nice and there is not as much rain
  • How to get there: Taiwan High Speed Railway and Inter-City Bus
  • Best places to stay: Yuanshan Grand Hotel or Fu Chang Hotel
  • Book tours and activities in Taipei on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Background:
Shihlin Night market lies next to Jiantan MRT station, surrounded by Wenlin Road (文林路), Jihe Road (基河路), and small alleyways Xiaobei Street (小北街), and Xiaoxi Street (小西街), forming a giant triangle making it the biggest night market in Taipei City by area. 
Shihlin may have the most food stalls and restaurants of any night market in Taiwan, and is often regarded as the best or one of the favorite night markets in Taiwan by both locals and tourists alike.
The night market features multiple alleyways as well as an underground food court and underground parking garage. 
Located next to Mingchuan University, Soochow University, China Culture University, and Shih Chien University, it has a constant supply of hungry university students visiting every day.

Shilin Market was first established in 1909 near the Matzu Cicheng Temple, which now lies at the center of the night market. Before that is was a resting stop for cargo on the way to Dadaocheng. 
In 1998, Shilin Market was named as a historical monument. After that from 1999-2011, the market underwent multiple renovations, and relocated to a temporary structure near Jiantan MRT station, until renovations were completed in 2012.

Hours:
Around 4 PM until 12 Midnight, every day.

Tours:
You can book a Shilin Night Market Walking Tour With a Private Tour Guide on TripAdvisor here or Klook here. 

Hotels in Taipei:
High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend the Grand Hyatt (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), Marriot (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), Sheraton (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), Shangri-la (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), and Regent (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here), which are all very high quality hotels in the middle of Taipei City.
We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). 
Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

Just to let you know, if you book using the links above, we get some commission at no cost to you, and you can help support our blog. Some of the Klook links may not work if you are using an Ad blocker. 
You can click here to receive $5 USD on your first Klook purchase. 

How to get there:
By MRT: Take the Red Line to Jiantan Station and then take exit 1 north out of the station. The night market is right across the road. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here.
By Scooter: Take Zhongshan North Road out of Taipei and wind around Yuanshan Hotel into Shilin. You can park on the right side of the road next to Jiantan Station. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Car: Take Zhongshan North Road out of Taipei and wind around Yuanshan Hotel into Shilin. There are many parking garages around the night market. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map: Please see below:

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Ximending 西門町

3/11/2025

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Ximending is a historical neighborhood and shopping district in west Taipei. Originally built by the Japanese as an entertainment district, it later became the first designated pedestrian zone in Taiwan. Here you can find night market like food choices, historical sights, and endless shopping options. It is definitely worth a stop on your trip to Taipei.

Planning your trip to Taipei?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

  • Best time to visit: March-May, and October - November when the temperatures are nice and there is not as much rain
  • How to get there: Taiwan High Speed Railway and Inter-City Bus
  • Best places to stay: Yuanshan Grand Hotel or Fu Chang Hotel
  • Book tours and activities in Taipei on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Historical Background:
The land that Ximen Shopping District stands on was once part of Basay tribal land. The Basay people had lived on the land for thousands of years before the first Chinese settlers.
Sections of the area indicate that there was settlements here during the Dutch rule in the 1600s.
The name Ximending refers to the neighborhood just outside the west gate of Taipei City. Before the Japanese colonization of Taiwan, this area was wilderness connecting Taipei with Bangka. The Japanese decided to develop it into an entertainment area around the turn of the 20th century.  The walls of Taipei were later torn down in 1905. 
One historical building here is the Red House Theater (紅樓劇場) which was built in 1908. Originally the building was a department store, but after 1945 the building was transformed into a theater. After a fire in the year 2000, it was renovated and turned into a museum with shops and theater with more modern equipment. 
In the year 2000, Ximending was designated as a pedestrian zone, the first in Taiwan.  Because if its popularity, the area is also known for more crime and illicit activities. 
Currently the area sees over 300 shoppers per month. The area is also especially popular with young people because there are many high schools and cram schools nearby. 

Price:
Free

Hours:
24/7

Tours:
You can book a 2-Hour Private Ximending Area Walking Tour on TripAdvisor here.
You can also search for tours on Klook here, or KKday here​. 

Hotels in Taipei:
We have stayed at and recommend Ximending Amba, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, Tripadvisor here, Expedia here, Kayak here, Trip.com here, or Agoda here).
We also have stayed at and recommend and Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here).
​We also have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here).
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

Just to let you know, if you book using the links above, we get some commission at no cost to you, and you can help support our blog. Some of the Klook links may not work if you are using an Ad blocker. 
You can click here to receive $5 USD on your first Klook purchase. 

How to get there:
By Car/Scooter: From Taipei Main Station, go east on Zhongxiao East Road until you reach Zhonghua Road and take a left. Take another right on Chengdu Road and you are there. There is some scooter parking on the street, but if you are driving a car I suggest parking at Carrefour and walking over. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By MRT: Take the green line to Ximen Station. The shopping district can be found at exit 6. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here.
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map:
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Taiwan Festivals Guide – A Monthly Guide to the Best Festivals and Traditions 台灣節日指南

1/24/2025

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Throughout the year, Taiwan is full of festivals and holidays. Besides the three major festivals and National Holidays when people are off from school and work, there are also many smaller religious festivals and events throughout the year. In this guide, we will provide a month-by-month breakdown of the major festivals and holidays in Taiwan.
​
🏯 Planning your trip to Taiwan? 🌊
Here are some top travel tips for you:
  • Best time to visit: All Year because there are festivals going on all the time!
  • How to get there: Plane tickets via Trip.com
  • Best places to stay can be found on Agoda
  • Book tours and activities in Taiwan on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Table of Contents
  • Taiwan Festivals By Month of the Year
    • January
    • February
    • March
    • April
    • May
    • June
    • July
    • August
    • September
    • October
    • November
    • December
  • Summary of Taiwan National Holidays (With the Day off from work and/or school):
    • New Year's Day 中華民國開國紀念日 / 元旦
    • Lunar New Year or Spring Festival 農曆新年/過年
    • 228 Peace Memorial Day 228和平紀念日
    • Children's Day 兒童節
    • Tomb Sweeping Day 淸明節
    • Labor Day 勞動節
    • Dragon Boat Festival 端午節
    • Mid-Autumn Festival 中秋節
    • ROC National Day / Double Ten Day 國慶日 / 雙十節
  • Other Traditional Festivals (that do not include a day off):
    • Lantern Festival 元宵節
    • Ghost Festival / Ghost Month 中元節/普渡/鬼月
    • Tourism Day 觀光節
    • Earth God's Birthday 土地公誕辰
    • Guan Yin's Birthday 觀音誕辰
    • God of Medicine's Birthday 保生大帝誕辰
    • Matsu's Birthday 媽祖誕辰
    • Buddha's Birthday 佛誕日
    • Guan Yu's Birthday 關公誕辰
    • City God's Birthday 城隍爺誕辰
    • Qixi Festival / Chinese Valentine's Day 七夕
    • Double Ninth Festival / Senior Citizen's Day 重陽節
    • Saisiat paSta'ay Festival 矮靈祭
  • Other Seasonal Festival Activities and Events:
    • Yilan International Children's Folklore & Folkgames Festival
    • Taiwan International Balloon Festival
    • Fulong Sand Art Festival 福隆國際沙雕藝術季
    • Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival
    • Yanshui Beehive Fireworks (Tainan) 鹽水蜂炮
    • Taitung Bombing Lord Handan 玄武堂慶元宵炮炸寒單爺
    • Miaoli Bombing Dragon Festival 苗栗火旁龍之夜
    • Yilan Lizejian "Zao-Wang" -"Wife Carrying" Festival 宜蘭利澤簡走尪
    • Taichung Dajia Mazu Festival 大甲媽祖
    • Kaohsiung Neimen Song Jiang Battle Ritual 高雄內門宋江陣
    • Penghu International Fireworks Festival 澎湖花火節
    • Hot Spring Season 溫泉季節
    • Hot Pot Season 火鍋季
    • Maolin Butterfly Season 茂林蝴蝶季節
    • Flower Festivals 花海:
    • Cherry Blossom Season 櫻花季:
    • Mang Grass Season 芒草季
    • Taiwan Mango Season 台灣芒果季
    • Taiwan Beach Season 台灣沙灘季
  • Other Aboriginal/Indigenous Festivals
    • Flying Fish Festival of the Yami (Tao) tribe 飛魚祭
    • Mayasvi Ceremony of the Tsou tribe 阿里山鄒族達邦社傳統戰祭
    • The Ear-shooting Festival of the Bunun Tribe 布農射耳祭
    • Harvest Festival of the Amis tribe 阿美族豐年祭
    • New Year Ritual of the Puyuma Tribe 卑南族年祭
  • Other Sports Festivals 運動比賽
    • Dapeng Bay Marine Festival 大鵬灣帆船生活節
    • Taiwan Open of Surfing 臺灣國際衝浪公開賽
    • Taipei Marathon 台北馬拉松
      • Other Marathons in Taiwan:
  • Other Unnoficial Holidays 其他節日
    • Farmer's Day 農民節
    • Valentine's Day 情人節
    • Arbor Day / Sun Yat-sen Memorial Day 植樹節/國父逝世紀念日
    • White Day 白色情人節
    • Youth Day / Martyrs' Memorial Day 青年節/革命先烈紀念日
    • Literary Day 文藝節
    • Easter 復活節
    • Mother's Day 母親節
    • Opium Suppression Movement Day / Anti-Smoking Day 禁菸節
    • Tiananmen Square Massacre Memorials 六四事件紀念活動
    • Indigenous Peoples' Day 原住民族日
    • Father's Day 父親節
    • 823 Artillery Battle Memorial Day 823砲戰紀念日
    • Journalist' Day 記者節
    • Armed Forces Day 軍人節
    • Teachers' Day / Confucious' Birthday 孔子誕辰紀念日
    • Overseas Chinese Day 華僑節
    • Taiwan Retrocession Day 臺灣光復節
    • Halloween 萬聖節
    • Chinese Cultural Renaissance Day / Sun Yat-sen's Birthday 國父誕辰紀念日 / 中華文化復興運動
    • Winter Solstice / Dongzhi Festival 冬至
    • Constitution Day 行憲紀念日 (xíng xiàn jì niàn rì)
    • Christmas 聖誕節
  • Maps:
    • Taiwan Lantern Festival Locations:
    • Taiwan Dragon Boat Racing Locations:

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Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) in Taiwan – How it’s Celebrated and How You can Join in

1/16/2025

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Lunar New Year (also known as Spring Festival or Chinese New Year) is the biggest holiday in Taiwan. It is like Christmas in the West and is a time of family togetherness and welcoming a new year. In this blog, we will let you know the customs and culture during the Lunar New Year in Taiwan and how to celebrate.
​
🏯 Planning your trip to Taiwan? 🌊
Here are some top travel tips for you:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn when it is not too hot or cold and less rainy
  • How to get there: Plane tickets via Trip.com
  • Best places to stay can be found on Agoda
  • Book tours and activities in Taiwan on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Table of Contents
  • When is the Lunar New Year in Taiwan?
  • What do Animals in the Chinese Zodiac Mean?
  • History of Lunar New Year in Taiwan
  • Traditions During the Lunar Festival Day by Day:
    • Day 1: Little New Year (小年, Xiǎo nián) / Spring Cleaning (大掃除 dà sǎo chú)
    • Day 2: New Year's Eve (除夕, Chúxī): Go to husband's parent's house for dinner
    • Day 3: New Year's Day (初一, Chū yī): Stay at husband's house
    • Day 4: Son-in-Law Day (初四, Chū sì) Spend time with the wife's family
    • Day 5: Separation Day (初五, Chū wǔ) Avoiding Social Visits
    • Start Work (開工 Kāi gōng)
    • Other Traditions During Lunar New Year Day by Day:
  • What is there to do During the Lunar New Year in Taiwan?
    • Wear Red Clothes
    • Give Red Envelopes to Children and Elders
      • How much money should I put in my red envelope for relatives or friends?
      • Where can I get the 20 NT coin, and 200 NT or 2000 NT bills?
    • Eat Fish, Dumplings, and Sticky Rice at New Year's Eve Dinner
    • Hang Couplets
    • Light Fireworks
    • Worship Ancestors
    • Visit Temples
    • Play Mahjong and other games
    • Go on outings
    • Send Endless LINE Photos or Stickers
  • My Experience as a Foreigner During the Lunar New Year in Taiwan:
  • Tips for Traveling During Chinese New Year in Taiwan

​When is the Lunar New Year in Taiwan?

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Orchid Island (Lanyu) 蘭嶼 – Taiwan’s Best Indigenous Cultural Experience

1/9/2025

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Orchid Island (not to be confused with the Fijian Island of the same name), known in the local Tao language as Ponso No Tao (Island of the people), and in Chinese as Lanyu (蘭嶼) is a secret indigenous people’s paradise off the southeastern coast of Taiwan. It is different than any other place in Taiwan and has the best-preserved indigenous culture anywhere in the country. If Taiwan’s best tourist activity is experiencing the culture of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples, then Lanyu has the best tourist experience anywhere in Taiwan.
​
Table of Contents
  • Background:
  • History:
    • Tao Culture:
    • Flying Fish Festival:
  • Weather and Climate:
  • When to go:
  • Taboos:
    • General Taboos:
    • Flying Fish Season Taboos (February to June):
    • Basic Courtesy:
  • How to get there:
    • By Plane:
    • By Boat:
  • Getting around the island:
  • Tours:
  • Scooter Rental:
  • Car Rental:
  • Bicycle Rental:
  • Accommodation:
  • Map:
  • Our Journey:
  • Houbihu Harbor 後壁湖漁港
  • Iratay Village (魚人部落 Yuren Village)
  • Lanyu Cultural Museum 蘭嶼文物舘
  • Yayo Village (Yeyou Village 椰油部落)
  • Mantou Rock 饅頭岩
  • Kaiyuan Fishing Harbor 開元漁港
  • 7-Eleven
  • Lanyu Lighthouse 蘭嶼燈塔
  • Hongtou Rock (Jyakmey sawasawalan 像水渠一樣,紅頭岩)
  • Crocodile Rock (Ji-macinger 鱷魚岩)
  • Tank Rock 坦克岩
  • Spread Out Rock (Jipaneytayan , 攤開岩)
  • Jikarahem Caves 很深之意 (五孔洞,Five Caves)
  • Iraraley Village (郎島部落)
  • Jade Woman Rock (Jimavonot 玉女岩)
  • Traditional Tao Canoes 傳統達悟獨木舟
  • Double Lion Rock (Jipanatosan 雙獅岩)
  • Warship Rock 軍艦岩
  • Iranmeylek Village (Dongqing Village 東清部落)
  • Ghost's Cave 蘭嶼鬼洞
  • Nipple Hill Hike 乳頭山步道
  • Lover's Cave 情人洞
  • Iranmeylek Secret Snorkeling Spot (東清秘境)
  • Iranmeylek Night Market 東清夜市
  • Iralino Village (Yeyin Village 野銀部落)
  • Iron Helmet Rock 鋼盔岩
  • Elephant Rock 象鼻岩
  • Lesser Orchid Island 小蘭嶼
  • Moon Rise 月出
  • Nuclear Waste Disposal Facility 核廢料存放場
  • Dragon Head Rock 龍頭岩
  • Green Green Grassland (Ja-langoina 青青草原)
  • Imorod Village (Hongtou Village 紅頭部落)
  • Lanyu Weather Station 蘭嶼氣象站
  • Screw Pine Juice 露兜果汁
  • Flying Fish Rice Wrap 飛魚飯糰
  • Gift Shops 紀念品店
  • Things We Missed:

Background:

History:
​
Orchid Island became inhabited about 800 years ago by the Tao indigenous people (達悟族) (aka Yami people 雅美族, which is a name coined by the Japanese, but the native people prefer Tao), which are thought to have traveled from the Batanes Islands in the Philippines, which are a little less than 200 KM away, cut off by the Bashi Channel. However, Orchid Island is very different than the Philippines.
Beginning in 1644, some Dutch Sailors were sent to investigate the island, and some settled there among the natives. Because of this, the Island was known as Red Head Island (紅頭嶼) by the Chinese and the Japanese.
After the Dutch were defeated in Taiwan, Lanyu was claimed but not controlled by the Qing Dynasty.
The Japanese claimed the Island shortly after the Sino-Japanese War in 1895 but protected it as an “ethnological research site” and forbade outsiders from entering.
After the Republic of China took over Taiwan following the end of WWII, they continued to ban visitors to the island until 1967, after which tourists were allowed to enter and public schools were built there.
Christian missionaries began preaching and living on the island starting in the 1950s, and now basically all native people on the island are Christian (mixed with traditional beliefs). However, Christianity was introduced much earlier starting with the Dutch in the 1600s although to a lesser extent.
In 1982 a nuclear waste storage plant was built on the south side of the Island without the islanders’ consent, causing protests from the inhabitants. Also because of this, the Island inhabitants receive free electricity.
The island is volcanic in nature, with the last major eruption being over 5 million years ago. The highest mountain is 552 meters (1,811 feet).
Currently, there are 2,400 people permanently living on the island, 90% of them being of native Tao descent.

Tao Culture:
The Tao people number about 2,000 living on Orchid Island, with about another 2,000 living on the Taiwan mainland. The Tao people rely on the sea for survival, and much of their traditions and lifestyle are centered on fishing.
The Tao people are mostly Christian but also still practice many of their traditional beliefs. However their ancestral religion included a pantheon of Gods.
Traditional roles for men are fishing while roles for women include harvesting taro and sweet potato and weaving. The men usually fish at night or early morning and rest on traditional wooden platforms during the day.
Boats are made from planks of wood and are painted red, white, and black. The boat usually has human figures, waves, and the traditional sun image (red and black circles and sun rays) which is said to warn off evil spirits. Boats are considered sacred and the ultimate human creation. There is also a launching ceremony for new boats in which traditional clothes and headgear (such as silver helmets for men and wooden hats for women) are worn, pigs are slaughtered, and the boat is lifted into the air multiple times before being set in the water. Traditional clothes include loin cloths and vests for men, and aprons and vests for women. Young people on the street usually do not wear traditional dress.

Flying Fish Festival:
There are three basic seasons on Lanyu: one is the flying fish season when flying fish can be easily caught and used and lasts from February to May. The other seasons are from May to October and October to February when flying fish cannot be caught for ceremonial use. There are many taboos during flying fish season which are discussed below.
The Flying Fish Festival lasts from about March to October when flying fish are caught. During this time many ceremonies take place such as for the beginning of the festival, plentiful harvest, etc. During the festival, there are multiple migrations of flying fish species near Lanyu. There are many taboos during this time, especially when it comes to catching and eating flying fish which are the main life source of the Tao people.

Weather and Climate:
The island has a tropical rainforest climate, with average high temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees year-round. The rainy months are in summer, especially due to Typhoons, but the most sunny days are also in summer (expect a lot of sun), and the most rainy days are in winter. Summer is the tourist season, but spring and fall are also popular times to visit. Winters are said to be dreary, and cold, and have constant northeastern winds that can stop airplanes and ferries from departing to the island.

When to go:
The best time to go they say is around May when it is not too hot and there are no northeasterly winds or typhoons which can cancel your transportation to the island.
The typhoon season lasts from around June to October. The busy season is during summer break from June to August, during which time it can be hard to book a hostel or airplane ticket. Winter is the less crowded season, but the water will be cold, there will be constant wind (which could cancel transportation), and it will rain more often.
Taboos:General Taboos:
  • Do not take pictures of or enter any of the underground houses without permission.
  • Do not use any of the resting pavilions without permission, and if you are given permission take off your shoes before entering.
  • Do not visit schools when they are in session.
  • Do not speak loudly or shout while inside the villages.
  • When villagers are performing traditional rituals, watch from a distance and keep quiet.
  • Do not touch or enter into traditional canoes
  • Do not disturb the ecology or habitat when snorkeling, hiking, etc.
  • Do not bring any plants or animal parts with you when you leave Lanyu.
Flying Fish Season Taboos (February to June):
  • Do not take photos or get near the fisherman or catch when they are coming ashore
  • Do not touch or get into canoes to take photos.
  • Women should keep away from canoes due to traditional beliefs.
  • Do not bring oranges to beaches or harbors or give oranges as gifts, as this is believed to be a curse.
  • Do not ask the fisherman what they are doing, this is thought to bring them bad luck for their catch.
  • Do not try to fish without asking locals the proper time and place to do so.
  • Avoid swimming and snorkeling in or near traditional fishing harbors. Always ask your hostel owner or other locals where it is okay to swim and snorkel.
  • Do not fish for flying fish, especially using nets or motorboats
  • Do not harm or remove coral
Basic Courtesy:
  • Know the taboos above before coming to Lanyu.
  • Do not photograph local people or things without permission.
  • Come to Lanyu with an open mind, and try to understand and sympathize with the people’s culture and way of life.

How to get there:
By Plane:You can book discount air tickets from Taipei to Taitung on KKday here.
The only planes to and from Orchid Island come from Taitung.
Flight times: As of the time of this blog, there were six flights per day by Daily Air Corporation from about8 AM to 4 PM (Please note their website is only in Chinese). The flight from Taitung to Lanyu takes about 25 minutes. Please note that the aircraft are small and flights can be canceled due to high winds or unfavorable weather.
Costs: NT 1428 to Lanyu and NT 1360 from Lanyu.
You can purchase plane tickets through a tour agency such as Klook or a similar website.
By Boat:There are two places that offer ferry rides to Lanyu: Houbihu Harbor (恆春後壁湖漁港) in Pingtung and Fugang Harbor in Taitung (臺東富岡漁港). There are also two ferry companies that operate at both harbors. Both companies leave from both harbors at the same time and arrive at the same time for the same price (2300 NT per person round trip/1150 NT per single trip).
Ferry Boat costs:
2300 NT per person round trip (1150 NT per single trip)from both Taitung and Pingtung. Both ferry companies have the same price.
Ferry Boat Times:
7:30/7:00 AM departure, 9:30 AM arrival to Lanyu.
12:00/12:30 PM departure, 3:00 PM arrival to Lanyu.
9:30 AM departure from Lanyu, 11:30 arrival to Taitung or Pingtung.
3:00 PM departure from Lanyu, 5:00 PM arrival to Taitung or Pingtung.
Both ferry companies depart and arrive at the same time at both locations.
You can purchase ferryboat tickets for a discount on Klook here or KKday here.
Getting around the island:Rent a scooter! The island is small so you should not need to rent a car. You can rent bicycles but you will not be able to travel as fast. You can also hire a driver to take you on tours.
Ask your hostel for more rental information. They can help you book a rental in advance.

Tours:You can book multiple tours and activities such as a Tribal Tour, Underground House Tour, day hiking, night hiking, snorkeling, scuba Diving, SUPing / Paddle Boarding, and Freediving. You can search for more tours through Klook here or KKday here.

Scooter Rental:
Price: expect 500 NT per day.
You can book a scooter through Klook here or KKday here.
Be sure to book your rental in advance, especially during summer weekends. Ask for help from your hostel owner if needed.
I am 100% percent certain you do not need a Taiwan local license to rent scooters here, however, they may ask for an international license (but I’m fairly sure they will let you rent without one).
Helmet wearing is not enforced at all as you will quickly find, but it’s still the law.
Also be careful to not hit any goats because they wander as they please.
There is only one gas station next to Kaiyuan Fishing Harbor.
Car Rental:Price: expect 2000 NT per day.
You can rent a car for Lanyu on KKday here.
Bicycle Rental:Price: Bike rental is about 400 NT per day.
You can rent a bike for Lanyu on KKday here.

Accommodation:Booking accommodation on the island can be difficult in the summer months and on weekends when rooms can be fully booked for months in advance.
There is a nice selection of rooms on Agoda.
Here is a list of every registered hostel on the island, but it is in Chinese.
My hostel required that I pay for my room in advance via bank wire transfer (this may not be an option if you are a foreign traveler, so make sure they accept credit cards if you do not have a Taiwan bank account).
Expect to pay 2000 – 4000 NT per night for a standard double room on Lanyu.
You can also book Wifi and SIM cards for Taiwan on Gigago here.
Just to let you know, if you book using the links above, we get some commission at no cost to you, and you can help support our blog. You can click here to receive $5 USD on your first Klook purchase.

Map:
Please see below:

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Gold Mountain Ranch and Resort (金山驛境)

1/1/2025

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Gold Mountain Ranch and Resort (aka Jinshan Yijing in Chinese, or simply "Horse Camp") is a campground and horse ranch in Jinshan District of New Taipei. A stay here includes activities such as horseback riding, four-wheeling, archery and bb-gun practice, and also a filling BBQ dinner and western style breakfast. Staying here makes you feel like you are in the rural American West, which is a unique experience in Taiwan. With a shortage of ranches and horse riding opportunities in Taiwan, Gold Mountain is a special place that you should not miss on your trip along Taiwan's northern coast. 

Background:
From my conversation with the Laoban (Boss), Mr. Z, as well as info from their website, Mr. Z. started this ranch about three years ago as a pet project, due to his love of horses. Before that he was in the restaurant business. He said that he searched the entire island for a suitable place for a Horse Ranch, which was his dream, and happened to find this spot of land where the ranch currently operates. When he started the ranch, he would still drive back to Zhonghe every night to take care of his ailing cat. Now he spends all his time taking care of the horses, even sleeping next to them at night in case something goes wrong. Now him and four other employees help to run the campground and ranch.
Currently the ranch has 6 horses, about five ATVs, and can accommodate 60 people. Soon they plan to open a restaurant and bar on the property, as well as a wilderness survival training camp. 

Hours:
Check in: 1 PM 
Check out: 11 AM
​
Price:
1600 NT - 2750 NT per night per person
Additional horse rides charged per hour/lesson.
​You can book a night at Gold Mountain Ranch on Klook here. 

Website: https://goldmrnr.com/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/goldmrandr/ 
​(like and share button below)
How to get there:
By Car/Scooter: From Taipei, take National highway 3 north to Wanli, then take provincial highway 2 along the northern coast until you reach Jinshan. Then take provincial highway 2A east to county highway 25, and turn right at Sanhe elementary school. Turn left when you see the sign for "金山驛境." The ranch is at the end of the road. It takes about 50 minutes from Taipei by car. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
Looking for 
scooter rental in northern Taiwan? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a cycling tour on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 
​By Bus/taxi: There are buses that leave from Taipei City Hall station to Jinshan hourly. The ride takes about an hour. From central Jinshan you can take a taxi (about 200 NT) to the ranch. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT and buses from Klook here or KKday here. ​You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. ​

Map:
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Why Taiwan is Better than Thailand (為什麼台灣勝過泰國)

11/26/2024

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Some people out there may think that Taiwan and Thailand are the same country. However, one of these countries is clearly better than the other one. To help you understand why Taiwan is better than Thailand, we have laid out the key differences that you need to know here.
I have made Taiwan my permanent home for ten years, and Thailand is my favorite vacation spot in Asia which I have visited multiple times (you can check out our blog on Thailand here). Therefore I feel I am qualified to voice my opinion on this issue.
To put it simply, Taiwan and Thailand are both great. Unfortunately, Thailand is much more popular as a tourist destination than Taiwan which is often overshadowed. That is why I have made this blog to show how Taiwan is better than Thailand, to try to convince someone to come to Taiwan instead of Thailand.
​
Table of Contents
  • Location
  • Size
  • Shape
  • Religion
  • Economy
  • Taxation
    • Personal Income Tax
    • Corporate Tax
  • Immigration
    • Visitor Visas
    • Resident Visas
    • Digital Nomad Visas
    • Permanent Residency
    • Retirement Visas
  • Geography
    • Taiwan's Geography
    • Thailand's Geography
  • Climate
    • Air Pollution
  • Travel and Tourism
    • What's the Difference Between Taiwan and Thailand for Traveling?
    • What are Thailand and Taiwan famous for?
  • Thai vs. Taiwanese Cuisine
    • Thai Cuisine
    • Taiwanese Cuisine
  • Hotels and Accommodation
  • Car and Scooter Rentals
  • Public Transportation
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Beaches
  • Politics
  • Gay marriage
  • Marijuana
  • Capital Cities: Taipei & Bangkok
  • Conclusion:
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Popsmile Popcorn Tourist Factory 卡滋爆米花觀光工廠 – The Best Popcorn Experience in Asia

11/22/2024

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Katz (or Kazi) Popsmile Popcorn Tourist Factory 卡滋爆米花觀光工廠 is the only tourist popcorn factory in Asia, and offers DIY tours in Bali District of New Taipei. Visitors are invited to try out many different popcorn flavors, make their own popcorn and DIY treats, and learn more about the history of popcorn making in Taiwan. Overall it is a fun adventure for the whole family.

Table of Contents
  • Historical Background:
  • Hours:
  • Price:
  • Tour Schedule:
    • Weekdays:
    • Holidays:
  • Where to stay:
  • Activities in Taipei:
  • How to get there:
  • Map:
  • Our Journey
  • Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology 十三行博物館

Historical Background:
Kazi/Katz “Popsmile” Popcorn was established in November 2006 in a Taipei Cinema. The name “Kazi” comes from the sound of the delightful crunch of popcorn when chewed, and over the years, they’ve crafted dozens of flavors, expanding popcorn sales beyond just cinemas. Kazi has become Taiwan’s pioneering brand for multi-flavored popcorn, particularly popular through online group purchases.
Kazzi has developed over 200 flavors, ranging from sweet to sour, spicy to salty, and now sells in over 40 countries worldwide. Their goal is to continue delivering surprising experiences to customers everywhere.
The factory opened to tourists in about 2020 and can be busy on weekends and holidays.

Hours:
Roughly 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Closed Tuesdays.

Price:
250 NT per person
You can book tickets for a discount on Klook here or KKday here.
The entrance ticket includes a voucher to purchase popcorn.

Tour Schedule:
Weekdays:
  • 11:00 AM
  • 1:00 PM
  • 2:00 PM
  • 3:00 PM
  • 4:00 PM
Holidays:
  • 10:30 AM
  • 11:00 AM
  • 1:00 PM
  • 1:30 PM
  • 2:00 PM
  • 2:30 PM
  • 3:00 PM
  • 3:30 PM
  • 4:00 PM
  • 4:30 PM


Where to stay:
We recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach.
We have stayed at and recommend ​Gold Mountain Ranch, which is a horse ranch and glamping destination in Jinshan. ​You can book a night at Gold Mountain Ranch on Klook here.  You can also check out our full blog on the ranch here. 
We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach. 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Agoda here, which provides the best quality accommodation selection in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

Activities in Taipei:
There are many other activities available to enjoy nearby in Taipei such as 
– kayaking
– canoeing
– snorkeling
– SUP / paddle boarding
– water biking
and more activities which you can book on Klook here or KKday here. 

How to get there:
By Car/Scooter: Take Provincial Highway 15 to Bali, then take a right on Guanhai Road. There is limited paid parking on the side of the road. Looking for scooter rental in Tamsui? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. ​
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.   
By Bus: Take the Shuttle bus Red No. 13 from Bali Old Street or Guandu MRT station (about 20 minutes). The bus stop is called Reiron Park 雷朗園區. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. 
By Bicycle: Take the MRT to Tamsui, the take the ferry to Bali Old Street. From there you can rent a bicycle and ride 2KM over to the museum. Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. 

Map:
​Please see below to see:
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Nanjichang Night Market 南機場夜市 – A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

11/21/2024

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Nanjichang Night Market (南機場夜市) is a large night market area in Zhongzheng District of Taipei known for its variety of food stalls and local crowds. The night market sits far away from the MRT station, meaning that usually only locals will snack here and prices are generally cheaper. Popular foods here include meatballs, sesame flatbread, stinky tofu, and more. It is definitely an authentic Taipei night market experience. 

Table of Contents
  • Historical Background:
  • Hours:
  • Price:
  • Where to stay:
  • Activities in Taipei:
  • How to get there:
  • Map:
  • Full List of Stalls at the Night Market:
  • Our Journey:
  • Fubin Teppanyaki and Steak 福賓牛排鐵板燒
  • Aliang Dumplings 阿亮餃
  • 072 Unnamed Clay Oven Rolls 無名推車燒餅

Historical Background:
Nanjichang Night Market Market was first established on February 3, 1986. Its name originates from the fact that before the construction of Taipei Songshan Airport, this area was used as an airport during the Japanese era, hence the name “Nanjichang” (literally meaning Southern Airport).
Later on during the ROC era, several public housing communities here for the families of the Republic of China military personnel were constructed over the former airstrip. Over time, due to the large number of people frequenting the area, a variety of food stalls gathered here, gradually developing into the bustling Nanjichang Night Market.
Known for its affordable and reasonably priced food, Nanjichang Night Market mainly serves local residents instead of tourists. Most of the stalls here are independently operated, and most of the vendors sell food.
Notable foods here include “ba-wan” (Taiwanese meatballs) which were featured on CNN, as well as the Michelin Guide recommendations for sesame flatbread, stinky tofu, spring rolls, and sesame oil chicken.
Although it is called a “night market,” some vendors operate throughout the morning, afternoon, and evening.
The night market is usually not too crowded even on weekends and holidays.

Hours:
Roughly 5 PM to 12 PM.

Price:
Free

Where to stay:
We have stayed at and recommend the Taipei Marriot (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). We have also stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

Activities in Taipei:
You can look for more activities in Taipei such as Rock Climbing, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, Diving, Snorkeling, Cooking Class, Glamping, Motorcycling, and more on Klook here or KKday here. 

How to get there:
By Car/Scooter: The night Market is between Xizang Road and Nanhao Road in Zhongzheng District. There is limited paid parking nearby. 
Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Bus/MRT: From Taipei Main Station, you can take bus 249 right to the night market. The trip takes about 15 minutes. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here.
By Bicycle: 
Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map:
Please see below to see:
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Willie’s Deli (G&G威利熟食店)

11/13/2024

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Willie’s Deli is an American-style deli and grocery store in Tianmu, Beitou District, Taipei City. The deli sells American-style beef and pork sandwiches, and the store often sells imported products from the USA and Europe that are much sought-after by foreigners in Taiwan. If you are missing products from the USA or Europe, then this store is definitely worth a stop.

Table of Contents
  • Historical Background:
  • Hours:
  • Activities:
  • Tours:
  • Where to Stay:
  • How to get there:
  • Map:
  • Our Journey:




Historical Background:
Willie’s Deli has been in business since 1979 and has specialized in providing products for the expat community in Taipei.

Hours:
11 AM to 9 PM
Closed Tuesdays

Activities:
Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. 
Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here.
You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou.

Where to Stay:
High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). 
We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). 
Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.
​

How to get there:
By MRT/Bus: 
Take the MRT to Zhishan MRT station. From there you can take the 616 bus to Sanyu Temple stop. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. 
By Car/Scooter: 
From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to Shipai Road and turn east until it turns into Tianmu Road. There is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Bicycle: 
Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. 

Map:
​Please see a map below:

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Our Favorite Taiwan Desserts 我們最喜歡的台灣甜點

10/25/2024

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Taiwan has some delicious sweets and desserts; even if you are a picky American like me you can find something delicious here that you will be sure to miss if you ever leave. Desserts are one of the main things that has brought me back to Taiwan time and time again. Here I will list my favorite Taiwan desserts. Try not to drool too much on your screen or keyboard. 
You may also want to check out our Taiwan food guide here.
​
Table of Contents
  • My Food Journey in Taiwan:
  • Taipei Food Related Tours:
  • Traditional Taiwanese Desserts 傳統的台灣甜點:
    • Mango Ice 芒果冰 (Mángguǒ bīng)
    • Fruit Shaved Ice 水果冰 (Shuǐguǒ bīng)
    • Milk-based Shaved Ice 雪花冰 (Xuěhuā bīng)
    • Fruit Ice Pops 水果冰棒 (shuǐ guǒ bīng bàng)
    • Pineapple Cakes 鳳梨酥 (fèng lí sū)
    • Moon Cakes 月餅 (yuè bǐng)
    • Egg Tarts 蛋塔 (dàn tǎ)
    • Old-Fashioned Sponge Cakes 古早味蛋糕 (gǔzǎo wèi dàngāo)
    • Baked Flatbread 燒餅 (shāo bǐng)
    • Dorayaki (銅鑼燒) (Tóngluó shāo)
    • Taro Cake Roll 芋頭卷 (Yùtóu juǎn)
    • Taro Cake 芋頭餅 (Yùtóu bǐng)
    • Dirty Chocolate Bread 髒髒包 (zāng zāng bāo)
    • Pineapple Bread (菠蘿麵包 bō luó miàn bāo)
    • Longan Muffins 龍眼瑪芬 (lóngyǎn mǎfēn)
    • Taiwanese Bread in General 一般的台灣麵包 (yī bān de tái wān miàn bāo)
    • Wife Cake / Sun Cake 老婆餅 (lǎo pó bǐng) / 太陽餅 (tài yáng bǐng)
    • Other Traditional Cakes in Taiwan 其他傳統蛋糕 (qítā chuántǒng dàngāo)
    • Steamed Buns 饅頭 (mántou) / 包子 (bāozi)
    • Shaved Ice 剉冰/刨冰 (Cuò bīng / Páobīng)
    • Milk Peanut Soup 花生湯 (Huāshēng tāng)
    • Eight Treasures Congee 八寶粥 (Bābǎo zhōu)
    • Mochi / Muaji 麻糬 (Máshǔ)
    • Strawberry Red Bean Mochi / Ichigo Daifuku 草莓大福 (cǎoméi dàfú)
    • Mangoes 芒果 (máng guǒ)
    • Taiwan Fruits in General 水果 (shuǐ guǒ)
    • Water Chestnuts 菱角 (Língjiǎo)
    • Alkaline Dumplings 鹼粽 (jiǎn zòng)
    • Wheel Cake / Imagawayaki 車輪餅 (Chēlún bǐng)
    • Egg Cake / Mahulu 雞蛋糕 (Jīdàn gāo)
    • Tangyuan 湯圓 (Tāngyuán)
    • Red Bean Soup 紅豆湯
    • Taro Ball Soup 芋圓湯 (Yùyuán tāng)
    • Jellied Tofu 豆花 (Dòuhuā)
    • Taiwanese Doughnuts 台式甜甜圈 (Táishì tián tiánquān)
    • Ox Horn Bread 牛角麵包 (Niújiǎo miànbāo)
    • Fried Dough Twist / Mahuajuan 麻花捲 (Máhuā juǎn)
    • Peanut Ice Cream Burrito 花生卷 (Huāshēng juǎn)
    • Taro Smoothie 芋頭冰沙 (Yùtóu bīngshā)
    • ALWAYS Jumping Candy (跳跳糖 tiào tiào táng)
    • Taiwan Ring Pop 台灣戒指糖 (táiwān jièzhǐ táng)
  • Non-traditional Desserts 非傳統的台灣甜點 (fēi chuán tǒng de tái wān tián diǎn)
    • Chocolate Dumplings from Din Tai Feng 鼎泰豐巧克力小籠包 (Dǐng Tài Fēng qiǎokèlì xiǎolóngbāo)
    • Mr. Donut 
    • Koko Krunch 可可脆片 (kě kě cuì piàn)
    • Boba Pizza 珍珠披薩 (zhēnzhū pī sà)
    • Other Weird Pizza Flavors 其他奇怪的披薩口味 (qí guài de pī sà kǒu wèi)
    • Choco Pies / Moon Pies 巧克力派 (qiǎo kè lì pài)
    • Doraemon Mini Cakes 哆啦A梦小蛋糕 (Duō lā A mèng xiǎo dàn gāo)
    • Banana Roti 香蕉薄餅 (xiāng jiāo bó bǐng)
    • Specialty Oreos
    • Pokemon Strawberry Creme Oreo
    • Pikachu Banana Chocolate Flavored Oreos
    • Lychee Orange Oreos
    • Cinnamon Roll Oreos
    • Cheesecake Oreos
    • Darlie Toothpaste Cake
    • Chocolate Fountain Fondue 巧克力噴泉 (qiǎo kè lì pēn quán)
  • Sweet Beverages 含糖飲料 (hántáng yǐnliào)
    • Boba Milk Tea 珍珠奶茶
    • Fruit Milk 水果牛奶 (Shuǐguǒ niúnǎi)
    • Winter Melon Tea 冬瓜茶 (dōng guā chá)
    • Grass Jelly Tea 仙草茶 (Xiāncǎo chá)
    • Aiyu Jelly 愛玉 (ài yù)
    • Other Sweet Teas in Taiwan 台灣其他甜的茶 (Táiwān qítā tián de chá)
    • Yogurt Drink 養樂多 (Yǎnglèduō) / 多多 (duōduō)
    • Yogo Fresh 建酪 (jiàn lào)
    • Apple Sidra 蘋果西打 (Píngguǒ xī dǎ)
    • Vitali 維大力 (Wéi dàlì)
    • Heisong Yogurt Soda 活力乳酸汽水 (Huólì rǔsuān qìshuǐ)
    • Taisugar Sarsaparilla Soda 台糖加鹽沙士 (Táitáng jiā yán shāshì)
    • Heisong Saspurilla With Extra Salt 黑松沙士加鹽 (Hēisōng shāshì jiā yán)
    • Super Supau 舒跑 (Shūpǎo)
    • Pocari Sweat 寶礦力水得 (Bǎokuànglì Shuǐdé)
  • Soft-Serve Ice Cream 雪淇淋 (Xuěqílín)
    • Mango Pikachu Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Taro Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Tofu Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Papaya Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Cactus Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Strawberry Milk Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Sweet Potato Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Peach Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Toilet Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Bamboo Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Calpis (可爾必思 Kě ěr bì sī) Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Mint Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Strawberry and Grape Soft-Serve Ice Cream
    • Chocolate and Milk Soft-Serve Ice Cream

​My Food Journey in Taiwan:

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The Best Places to Eat Near Beitou Hot Springs 北投溫泉美食-英文指南

9/30/2024

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Beitou is one of the best day trips near Taipei and a popular tourist location. As a result, many restaurants have opened in the area, especially around Xinbeitou MRT Station. In this guide, we will tell you how to enjoy food in this area like a local and eat your way through Beitou.
Please note that this is not a comprehensive guide. For the latest prices, opening hours, and other information, you should check Google.
​
Table of Contents
  • Historical Background:
  • Hours:
  • Activities:
  • Tours:
  • Where to Stay:
  • How to get there:
  • Map:
  • Marshal Zen Garden 雙喜湯屋
  • Hot Spring Ramen 溫泉拉麵
  • New Enjoy 新上享
  • Restaurants Often Recommended by Taiwanese Bloggers:
    • Beitou Bomb Scallion Pancake 北投炸彈蔥油餅
    • Chen Ji Fried Chicken: Most Popular Local Snack 陳季炸雞:在地最夯排隊美食
    • Feng Qing Yang Snack Shop 丰清揚小吃店
    • Wu Jia Beef Noodles 吳家牛肉麵
    • A Zai Cai Braised Pork Rice 矮仔財滷肉飯
    • Traditional Tofu Pudding Hall 傳統之最豆花堂
    • Shui Mou Small Squid Rice Noodles 水某小卷米粉
    • Royal Pool Hot Spring Feast Restaurant 皇池溫泉御膳館
    • Zhuzihu Sawmill Restaurant 竹子湖杉木林餐廳
    • Zhuzihu Guan Chen Food Court 竹子湖冠宸食館
    • Miaobang 苗榜
    • Mountain Talk 山上聊
    • Good Morning Warriors 早安勇士
    • Sheme House 拾米屋
    • Su Family Beef Noodles 粟家牛肉麵
    • No Sleep Workshop (無眠workshop)
    • Han Qi Meat Soup 漢奇肉羹
    • Yummy Vegan Home 芽米日子
  • Other Restaruants Near the MRT Station:
    • McDonald's Beitou 麥當勞北投店
    • Manwei Hot Spring Ramen 滿味溫泉拉麵
    • STARBUCKS Guangming Shop 星巴克光明門市
    • Burger King 漢堡王北投光明店
    • Ootoya Xinbeitou Restaurant 大戶屋新北投店
    • Sushi Express Xinbeitou Branch 爭鮮迴轉壽司-新北投店
    • KFC Beitou Guangming 肯德基北投光明餐廳
    • Yoshinoya Beitou 吉野家北投店
    • Hu Xu Zhang 鬍鬚張魯肉飯(北投光明店)
    • MOS BURGER Beitou Guangming Shop 摩斯漢堡 北投光明店
  • Conclusion:

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Marshal Zen Garden 雙喜湯屋 – Enjoy Great Views, Hot Springs, Food, and History

9/30/2024

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Marshall Zen Garden (also known as Shaoshuai Zen Garden 少帥展館) was originally a Japanese era Inn and home to Zhang Xueliang, an outcast Chinese warlord who spent more than 50 years on house arrest here. Now it has been renovated and converted into a restaurant, museum, and hot spring bath. Sitting in the hills of Beitou, it has great views of the surrounding area and Mount Guanyin. It is a great place to enjoy the scenery in Beitou.
​
Table of Contents
  • Historical Background:
  • Hours:
  • Price:
  • How to get there:
  • Where to stay in Beitou:
  • Map:
  • Our Journey:

​Historical Background:Marshall Zen Garden was originally known as Xintaka Inn 新高旅社 which was built in 1920. Later, during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, served as a comfort station for Kamikaze pilots before their suicide missions. In the 1960s, Zhang Xueliang 張學良, the “Young Marshal” (Shaoshuai 少帥 in Chinese) who was placed under house arrest by Chiang Kai-shek, and also lived here in seclusion with his wife, Zhao Yidi 趙一荻.
Zhang Xueliang, who lived through significant moments in Chinese modern history, was born in 1901 and was the son of a Chinese Warlord. After his father’s assassination by the Japanese in 1928, Zhang Xueliang took over leadership and played a critical role in the unification of China.
Zhang initiated the Xi’an Incident. The Xi’an Incident occurred in December 1936, when Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng detained Chiang Kai-shek to force him to stop the civil war against the Chinese Communist Party. They demanded that Chiang focus on uniting with the communists to resist the growing threat of Japanese invasion. As a result, Chiang harbored deep hatred for Zhang especially because of losses during the Chinese Civil War, and kept him under house arrest for more than 50 years.
Following the suggestion of Soong Mei-ling and with the approval of Chiang Ching-kuo, Zhang purchased the land with his own money and built a residence. He remained there until 1995, when he moved to Hawaii and sold the property. Xueliang passed away in Honolulu in 2001, at the age of 101, concluding a life that spanned a century and mirrored China’s turbulent history.
Marshal Zen Garden is now a popular spot for tourists and can get crowded on the weekends.

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Love at First Bite Bakery Cafe-芝加哥深盤披薩専売店

9/16/2024

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Love At First Bite was a Chicago-style pizza restaurant in Da'an District of Taipei. It was known as the best Chicago-style pizza in Taipei. After 9 years of operations, the restaurant closed after their lease with the landlord ended. Hopefully, the restaurant will open again in a new location soon. 

Background: 
Love At First Bite opened in 2014 and closed on November 12th, 2023.
The boss suggested that a new location would open soon, but no further information has been given.

Hours:
Permanently Closed

How to get there:
It's closed. No longer open. You can't get there anymore. 

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Taipei Underground Street Mall 台北地下街

9/13/2024

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Taipei City Mall, also known as Taipei Underground Street, Miki Plaza, Y District Underground Mall, Y區地下街, or Taipei Main Underground Shopping Street 台北地下街 英文介紹, is the largest underground shopping area in Taiwan roughly between and around the underground red line Zhongshan MRT, Airport MRT, and Taipei Main Station. It is like four shopping malls in one. Here one can purchase clothing, toys, electronics, handicrafts, and more. Its location underground between underground public transportation rail lines makes it a convenient and popular place for shoppers. In this blog, we will share our experience including a detailed map of the area.

Background:
Taipei City Mall opened on March 29, 2000, and is one of several underground shopping streets in Taipei. The mall provided relocation space for 810 tenants from the Zhonghua Shopping Mall which was demolished in 1992.
The Taipei Underground Mall is located beneath Section 1 of Civic Boulevard (Zhengzhou Road), stretching from Beimen Station on the Taipei Metro Songshan-Xindian Line to the Tamsui-Xinyi Line. The mall spans 825 meters and covers an area of 35,738 square meters.
The Taipei Underground Mall has a total of 28 entrances and exits, 14 on the north side and 14 on the south side. All are labeled with the letter Y. 
Taipei City Mall is even known as the “Akihabara of Taipei”. In addition, Taipei City Mall is open throughout the year and is unaffected by changes in weather. It is a great place for kids and families.
It also connects with the Zhongshan Underground Mall, Taipei Station Mall, and Station Front Mall. 
The area includes Taipei Underground Street Mall (Zone Y), MRT Zhongshan Underground Mall (Zone R), Zhongshan Underground Book Street (Zone R), Station Front Metro Mall (Zone Z), Taipei Main Station Underground Mall (Zone M), and Xinzhongshan Linear Park. There are endless toy shops, video game stores, clothing stores, bookstores, and restaurants in the area.

Price:
Free

Hours:
​About 11 AM to 9:30 PM every day.
Hours of individual shops may differ.

Tours in Taipei:
There are many tour itineraries that you can enjoy in Taipei that will take you to multiple destinations and arrange transportation. For more information, you can check out KKday here or Klook here which are both great tour websites that can connect you with the right tour and tour guide for you. 

Activities in Taipei:
Indoor Skiing, Rock Climbing, Hiking, Wakeboarding, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, SUP / Paddle Boarding, Diving, Snorkeling Kayaking, Canoeing, Water Biking,  River Tracing / Canyoneering, ATVing, Horse Riding, Cooking Class, Archery, Ice Skating, Roller Skating, Tree Climbing, Urban Camping, Glamping, Motorcycling, Motorbike Tour, Dragon Boat Racing, Escape Room, Shen'ao Rail Bike, Laser Gun Experience, Batting Cages, Bowling, Paintball, Flight Simulation Experience, Taipei Tram Driving Experience, Rail Simulation Experience, Taipei 101 Observation Deck activity, Strawberry Picking, Professional Photo Shoot, Body Relaxation SPA, Night Tour, Calligraphy Workshop and more on Klook here or KKday here. ​

Hotels in Taipei:
We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here). 
We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Agoda here, or Kayak here).
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
By MRT: You can access the underground mall via Beimen MRT Station, Taipei Main Station, Zhongshan MRT Station, or Shuanglian MRT Station. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. 
By Car/Scooter: There is paid parking nearby Taipei Main Station. 
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Click here or here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike bike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map:

Please see below:

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Taiwan Mango Guide – How to Enjoy Over 50 Types 台灣芒果指南 – 怎麽享用50多種的英文介紹

9/12/2024

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Mangoes are one of the best aspects of living in Taiwan. Taiwan mangoes are the best. They are simply the king of fruit. Also, many mango varieties can only be found in Taiwan. The only downside is Mango season only lasts for a few short months during the summer in Taiwan. In this guide, we…Read More

If you are interested in other Taiwan fruits, you can also check out our full Taiwan fruit guide here.
Table of Contents:
  • History of Mangoes in Taiwan 台灣芒果的歷史
  • How Mangoes are Grown and Cultivated 芒果的培育
  • Where Mangoes are Grown in Taiwan 台灣的芒果故鄉在哪裡?
  • Nutritional Value of Mangoes 芒果的養分
  • Where Taiwan Mangoes are Sold and How to Buy Them 怎麼買台灣芒果
    • Taiwan Weights and Pricing (重量與價錢):
    • Seasonality of Mangoes (水果季節性):
    • Ceremonial Use (祭拜品)
  • Common Types of Taiwan Mangoes 常見的台灣芒果
    • Irwen Mango (愛文芒果, Ài wén máng guǒ)
    • Jinhuang Mango (金煌芒果, Jīn huáng máng guǒ)
    • Summer Snow (Xiaxue) Mango (夏雪芒果, Xià xuě máng guǒ)
    • Keitt Mangoes (凱特芒果, kǎi tè máng guǒ)
    • Red Keitt Mangoes (紅凱特芒果, hóng kǎi tè máng guǒ)
    • Yuwen Mango (玉文芒果, Yù wén máng guǒ)
    • Xishi Mango (西施芒果, Xī shī máng guǒ)
    • Heixiang Mango (黑箱芒果, Hēi xiāng máng guǒ)
    • Peach Mango (水蜜桃芒果, Shuǐ mì táo máng guǒ)
    • Pipa Mango (枇杷芒果, Pí pá máng guǒ)
  • Other types of Mangos in Taiwan 其他芒果品種
  • Comparison Chart of Taiwan Mangoes 台灣芒果對照表
  • How to Eat and Enjoy Mangoes 芒果的吃法
    • The Proper Way to Cut Mangoes 芒果正確的切法
    • Mango Ice 芒果冰
    • Mango Soft Serve 芒果雪淇淋
    • Mango Pizza 芒果披薩
    • Other Awesome Ways to Enjoy Mango 其他吃法
  • Taiwan Food and Fruit-Related Tours 台灣食物之旅遊

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Taiwan vs. Thailand: Key Differences You Need to Know

9/12/2024

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Some people out there may confuse Taiwan with Thailand, however they are two very different countries. In fact, there are so many differences that we can’t even list them in this article. To help you differentiate between Taiwan and Thailand, we have laid out the key differences that you need to know here. I have…Read More

le of Contents
  • Location
  • Size
  • Shape
  • Population
  • Language
  • Religion
  • Culture
    • Thai Culture:
    • Taiwanese Culture:
  • Festivals
  • Economy
  • Currency
  • Taxation
    • Personal Income Tax
    • Corporate Tax
  • Immigration
    • Visitor Visas
    • Resident Visas
    • Digital Nomad Visas
    • Permanent Residency
    • Retirement Visas
  • Geography
    • Taiwan's Geography
    • Thailand's Geography
  • Climate
    • Air Pollution
  • Travel and Tourism
    • What's the Difference Between Taiwan and Thailand for Traveling?
    • What are Thailand and Taiwan famous for?
  • Thai vs. Taiwanese Cuisine
    • Thai Cuisine
    • Taiwanese Cuisine
  • Hotels and Accommodation
  • Car and Scooter Rentals
  • Public Transportation
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Beaches
  • Politics
  • Gay marriage
  • Marijuana
  • Capital Cities: Taipei & Bangkok

​Taiwan is located in East Asia, straddling the Tropic of Cancer. It is positioned to the east of China, with Japan and Korea lying to its north, and the Philippines situated to its south. Taiwan’s strategic location in the Western Pacific makes it a significant hub in the region, offering a blend of tropical and subtropical climates.
In contrast, Thailand is situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, just below the Tropic of Cancer. It shares its borders with several countries: to the west and northwest is Myanmar, to the south lies Malaysia, and to the east are Laos and Cambodia. Thailand’s central location in Southeast Asia makes it a crossroads of diverse cultures and influences, with a fully tropical climate and rich biodiversity.
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Mid-Autumn Festival in Taiwan: History, Traditions, and Activities 中秋節在臺灣

9/12/2024

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Mid-Autumn Festival (aka Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival) is one of the major festivals in Taiwan and is also an important holiday in cultures throughout Southeast Asia. In this blog, we will tell you how this festival is celebrated in Taiwan, how you can celebrate it, as well as other activities that will take place…Read More
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May Snow Hakka: Savor the Best of Hakka Cooking

9/12/2024

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May Hakka Snow Hakka Food (五月雪-客家私房珍釀) restaurant is a Michelin-star-rated traditional restaurant in Xinyi District of Taipei City. Popular dishes here include salt chicken, braised pork, cuttlefish, and more. It is definitely worth a trip if you are in Taipei...Read More
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Enjoy Some of the Best Hakka Cuisine at Hakka Kitchen

9/12/2024

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Hakka Kitchen (廚房客家美食) is a traditional Hakka Chinese restaurant inside a more commercial district of Zhongshan district, on an alley with many other food options near Nanjing Fuxing MRT Station on the Green Line. The defining feature of the restaurant is the giant photo of Jensen Huang, apparently the most important person to ever eat…Read More
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Luodong Night Market 羅東夜市

9/3/2024

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Luodong Night Market is the largest night market in Yilan and is one of the area's top tourist destinations. The night market covers a large area and usually is packed with people. Delicacies here include mutton soup, shaved ice, duck noodles, and onion pancakes. It is definitely worth a visit on your next trip to Yilan.

Planning your trip to Yilan?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

  • Best time to visit: March to November. During winter months there is constant rain due to the northeasterly winds.
  • How to get there: Taiwan Railway (TRA/TRB) and Inter-City Bus
  • Best places to stay: Ying Shih Guest House or Toucheng Leisure Farm
  • Book tours and activities in Yilan on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Background:
Luodong Night Market was created in 1990 as part of the local government's plan. The main part of the night market was built in front of a movie theater, so moviegoers could go get food after seeing a movie. Soon a few stalls became many, and the night market soon turned into the large sprawling area that we see today. The night market covers areas along Minsheng Road, Gongyuan Road, and Minquan Road, and also sprawls onto Tianjin Road, Zhentai Street, Xingdong Street, and Zhongshan Road Section 3. 

Hours:
3 PM to 12 AM every day.

Price:
Free

Tours and Activities:
You can purchase tours and tickets for many activities in Yilan such as Lanyang Museum, Turtle Island, Yilan Children's Festival, Toucheng Leisure Farm, Daxi Fishing Port, Caoling Tunnel, and many others through KKday here or Klook here. 

Accommodation:
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Agoda here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation on the islands.
We have stayed at and recommend Ying Shih Guest House, a resort in Datong Township near Taipingshan and Fan Fan Hot Spring (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here), and Jiaosi Hotspring Hotel, a hotel with hot springs in each room (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, Expedia here, or Trip.com here). We have also stayed at Toucheng Leisure Farm, a recreational farm and experience center in Toucheng (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, Hotels.com here, Expedia here, on Klook here, or on Trip.com here).

How to get there:
Bar Car/Scooter: From National Freeway 5, turn west on provincial highway 9 toward Luodong. There is paid parking near Zhongshan Park. Looking for scooter rental in Yilan? You can search KKday here or Klook here to look for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
If you are looking for car rentals in Yilan, you can also search KKday here or Klook here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. 
By TRA: The night market is about 200 meters away from Luodong TRA station. You can book tickets to travel to Yilan via inter-city bus on KKday here.. You can book tickets to Yialn via high speed rail (HSR)  on KKday here.  
Bicycle rental: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can search on KKday here, and search for tours on KKday here or Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​

Map:
Please see below:

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Tamsui Old Street 淡水老街

9/3/2024

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Tamsui Old Street (aka Danshui Old Street or Tamshui Old Street) is a street in Tamsui District of New Taipei famous for its delicious food and historical atmosphere. It is one of the most popular and well known old streets in all of Taiwan. Some local delicacies here include A-gei, iron eggs, fried squid, and other seafood. ​

Planning your trip to Taipei?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

  • Best time to visit: April to November when the temperatures are nice and the water is warm
  • How to get there: Taiwan High Speed Railway and Inter-City Bus
  • Best places to stay: Fullon Hotel or Hai Xia Your Home
  • Book tours and activities in Taipei on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Background:
Tamsui Old Street developed alongside the Tamsui Harbor, which was opened in 1860 during the Qing Dynasty as part of the Treaty of Tientsin which ended the Second Opium War. It was one of only eight ports in the entire Qing empire that was open to trade with the west. As a result, it became a focal point for trade in Taiwan. It was also the western terminus of the Danlan Old Trail, which was a network of roads and trails that sent tea and other goods from Yilan to Tamsui. It remained an important port until it started to silt in during the 1900s, and after the construction of Keelung Harbor. 
There are also a number of important historical buildings near Tamsui Old Street such as Fort San Domingo, Hobe Fort, and others. 
Tamsui Old Street has always existed next to the old harbor, and recently there have been projects from the local government to improve tourism, such as widening roads and making a riverside walkway. 
With the completion of the Red Line MRT with its terminus in 1997 right at the edge of the old street, Tamsui became an extremely popular destination for residents in greater Taipei and remains to be so today. 

Hours:
Every day 11 AM - 8 PM.

Price:
Free

Tours:
You can book a tour of Tamsui on KKday here or Klook here.
You can book a tour to Taiwan's North Coast on  KKday here or Klook here.

Activities:
There are many activities available around Tamsui such as, SUPing, Sand Bar Digging, Lover's Tower, Sailing, Yachting, and more on KKday here or Klook here.

Hotels in Tamsui:
We have stayed at and recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, Klook here, Trip.com, Kayak here, or Hotels.com here). 
We have also stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, Trip.com here, or Kayak here).
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

How to get there:
By Car/Scooter: Take provincial highway 2 north from Taipei until you reach Tamsui. The old street is near the Tamsui MRT station. Parking can be hard to find, but there should be plentiful parking at Tamsui Elementary School and other places further away. Looking for scooter rental in Tamsui? You can search on KKday here or Klook here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. ​
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search KKday here or Klook here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By MRT: Take the red line MRT north to Tamsui station and you have arrived. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from KKday here or Klook here. ​You can also book an MRT travel pass on KKday here or Klook here. 
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on KKday here or Klook here.. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. ​

Map:
Please see below:

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Liaoning Street Night Market 遼寧街夜市

8/14/2024

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Liaoning Street Night Market (遼寧街夜市) is a large restaurant and eating area in Zhongshan District of Taipei known for its variety of seafood restaurants and stalls. The night market sits next to Nanjing Fuxing MRT Station, meaning there are always crowds of hungry people looking for cheap snacks here. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Taipei. ​

Planning your trip to Taipei?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

  • Best time to visit: March-May, and October - November when the temperatures are nice and there is not as much rain
  • How to get there: Taiwan High Speed Railway and Inter-City Bus
  • Best places to stay: Yuanshan Grand Hotel or Fu Chang Hotel
  • Book tours and activities in Taipei on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Background:
​The market on Liaoning Street started with Fuju Temple (福聚宮), which dates back to 1882 during the Qing Dynasty when many stalls and restaurants began to be established around the temple to feed the crowds of hungry worshippers who visited. 
Liaoning Street Night Market started in roughly 1970 and many of the stalls and restaurants on the street have continued since that time. 

Popular delicacies here include Boiled Squid, Seafood Rechao, Oyster Omelet, Goose, Mochi, Tapioca Pearls, and more. 

Hours:
Roughly 4 PM to 12 Midnight every day. 

Price:
Free


Where to Stay:
High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Taipei Marriot (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). We have also stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). 
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

Activities in Taipei:
You can look for more activities in Taipei such as Rock Climbing, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, Diving, Snorkeling, Cooking Class, Glamping, Motorcycling, and more on Klook here or KKday here. 
​
How to get there:
By Car/Scooter: The night Market is on Liaoning Street, just a block away from the intersection of Nanjing East Road and Fuxing North Road. There is limited paid parking nearby. 
Looking for 
scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. 
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
By Bus/MRT: Take the MRT to Nanjing Fuxing. The night market is about a five minute walk. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from 
Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here.
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. 
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. 

Map:
Please see below:

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     Author 作家

    I am an American expat who has extensive experience living, working, and traveling in Taiwan. In my day, I had to learn many things about Taiwan the hard way. But I have come to learn that Taiwan is one of the best places in the world for Foreigners to live. ​This blog does not represent the opinions of every foreigner in Taiwan. I am just trying to help others learn more about this beautiful country.
    -Larry


    我來自美國, 我對台灣生活、工作和旅行有很豐富的經驗。我曾須艱辛地學習許多有關台灣的事情。但我已經了解到,台灣是世界上最適合外國人居住的地方之一。這個部落格不代表台灣每個外國人的意見。我只是想幫助其他人了解更多關於這個美麗的國家。
    -拉瑞

    Klook.com

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Planning your trip to Taiwan?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

  • Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn when it is not too hot or cold and less rainy
  • How to get there: Plane tickets via Trip.com
  • Best places to stay can be found on Agoda
  • Book tours and activities in Taiwan on Klook
  • Stay connected with a local SIM
  • Rent a car to explore distant sights

Looking for a hotel? Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or  KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.  
You can also check out our scooter rental guide here.