When you think of Taiwan you might first picture the bright lights of Taipei, it’s iconic skyline and bustling night markets. What you might not know is that Taiwan is home to some of the most unique and strikingly beautiful natural beauty in East Asia. Many of Taiwan’s gorgeous landscapes are easily accessible from Taipei so are a must-see addition to your itinerary. Below I have listed my top 5 off-the-beaten-path day trips to help you escape into the great outdoors during your Taiwan vacation.
Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail
There are several hikes along the Pingxi Branch Rail Line but the easiest, and in my opinion, most rewarding, is the Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail. On this hike, you pass the stunning Hegu Falls, Motian Falls, and Pipa Dong Falls. The hike will take 4-hours round trip from the trailhead. Photo tip: The majestic Motian Falls were my favourite to photograph. There is a boardwalk that allows you to get right up close to capture it.
Getting to Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail
Catch the Pingxi Branch Rail Line to Sandiaoling Railway Station. Follow the Pingxi tracks towards the tunnel. In 10-minutes you’ll see the trailhead signposted next to an elementary school. A round trip will take a maximum 4-hours.
Beitou Hot Springs
Located in a picturesque geothermal valley, the hot springs earned the nickname “Hell Valley” because of the eerie steam that rises from its turquoise waters. While it’s far too hot to take a dip, the area is scattered with pricey private spas and resorts to relax and rejuvenate. There is also a is a nearby public hot spring (“Millennium Hot Spring”) where you can take a dip for 1.25 USD.
Getting to Beitou Hot Springs
Catch the Taipei MRT north to Beitou MRT Station. From there, switch platforms and go one-stop to Xinbeitou MRT Station. The valley is only a 10-min walk from the station.
Yangmingshan National Park
Yangmingshan National Park is a hiker’s dream, and because of its popularity is one of the most well-maintained trails in the country. The grassy hills, geothermal pools, and peaceful forest walks are the ultimate way to escape the hustle of Taipei. Xiaoyoukeng Trail is particularly unique due to its proximity to the sulfur springs. On this hike, you’ll get up close to steam vents, fumaroles, and sulfur crystal formations.
Getting to Yangmingshan National Park
Catch the MRT to Jiantan Station. Use Exit 1, buses R5, S15, S17 will all get you to Yangmingshan National Park.
Pinglin
Pinglin District is a win for all tea lovers, avid cyclists, and landscape photographers. Home to both a museum dedicated to Chinese tea culture (the largest of its kind in the world) and the famous Jingualiao Bike Path – there are heaps of plantations and scenic stops to fill your day. Under the backdrop of pristine rural countryside, the rolling hills of Pinglin will make you feel like you are in a fairytale.
Getting to Pinglin
Catch the Xindian MRT Line to Xindian. Then catch bus 923 to Pinglin. Make sure to use Google maps to time your visit as buses only leave hourly on weekdays (twice an hour on weekends).
Note: If you prefer to visit on a tour that provides direct transportation, I highly recommend combining Pinglin with a visit to the incredible Thousand Island Lake.
Taroko National Park
My absolute favourite day trip from Taipei is Taroko National Park and in particular, Taroko Gorge. The white marble cliffs, winding Liwu River and misty green mountain ranges are absolutely breathtaking. While you could easily spend 2-3 days here (and rent a scooter to explore), if you’re short on time I recommend hitting the main places that the Taroko Shuttle Bus makes stops at. My top priorities were:
- Tianxiang (Baiyang Trail): 2-3 hrs
- Yanzikou (Swallow’s Grotto): 30-minutes
- Changchun Shrine (The Eternal Spring Shrine): 20-minutes
Getting to Taroko National Park
It’s a two-hour train ride to Xincheng Station from Taipei. From there, you can catch the tourist shuttle bus to the park entrance. If you’d like an easier (and quicker) option, several companies offer full-day trips that include direct transportation.
I hope this article has inspired you to see more of Taiwan’s great outdoors. This country has so much natural beauty to offer travelers and many of the sites are located so close to Taipei! If you have any questions feel free to comment below.
Brought to you by Taiwan Tourism Board.