5-Day Best of Taiwan: Sun Moon Lake, Tarako Gorge, Kaohsiung, Taitung

Sun Moon Lake

On the first morning of your Taiwan round-the-island tour, you will depart from central Taipei and travel to the heart of the island, Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area. Sun Moon Lake, the largest freshwater lake on the island, is divided by Lalu Island. The eastern side of the lake resembles the sun, while the western side resembles the crescent moon, giving the lake its unique name. This picturesque area is also the ancestral home of the Thao people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous groups. With its rich indigenous culture and abundant natural beauty, Sun Moon Lake has earned its place as one of Taiwan’s premier destinations.

1 Hours • Admission Ticket Free

Yidashao Pier

After lunch, your journey continues with a scenic bus tour around Sun Moon Lake, where you’ll explore the most renowned attractions in this area. Begin with a visit to Ita Thao, an indigenous village that offers insights into the culture and lifestyle of the Thao people.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Ci'en Pagoda

Then, marvel at the grandeur of Ci’en Pagoda, an iconic Sun Moon Lake landmark constructed by the late President Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Xuanzhuang Temple

Following your visit to Ci’en Pagoda, your exploration of Sun Moon Lake continues with stops at two significant temples. First, you’ll arrive at Xuanzang Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary dedicated to the esteemed monk Xuanzang.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Wenwu Temple

Then, your journey takes you to Wenwu Temple, an imposing Taoist temple featuring three halls devoted to the Martial God and the God of Literature. With the expert commentary of your tour guide, you’ll gain deeper insights into Sun Moon Lake, enriching your appreciation of the area’s history and significance.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kick off the second day of your 5-day Taiwan adventure with a delightful breakfast, setting the tone for another day of exploration. Hop on the bus and make your way to Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan, celebrated for its abundance of historic buildings and profound historical heritage. Your adventure proceeds with a visit to Fort Zeelandia, constructed by the Dutch East India Company during their 38-year administration of western Taiwan. The original fortress faced near destruction by the British army in the 19th century but was subsequently rebuilt by the Japanese.

40 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Anping Old Street

After exploring Fort Zeelandia, take a leisurely walk along Anping Old Street. Situated on the east side of Fort Zeelandia, this historic street was established by the Dutch over 300 years ago and holds the distinction of being the first officially named street in Taiwan. Besides its fascinating history, Anping Old Street is also known for its local specialties such as tofu pudding, shrimp rolls, fish skin dishes, beef soup, and many more. While you’re here, don’t miss the chance to savor the city’s signature delicacies, adding a delightful culinary experience to your historical journey in Tainan.

1 Hours 30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Fo Guang Shan

Upon arriving in Kaohsiung, your first stop is the renowned Fo Guang Shan Monastery (FGS) or Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. Fo Guang Shan Monastery is a significant Buddhist monastery founded by the Venerable Master Hsing Yun in 1967. The monastery is most famous for its Great Buddha Land, featuring a majestic 36-meter-tall golden statue of Buddha Amitabha, which stands as the tallest standing Buddha in Southeast Asia. It is encircled by an impressive array of 480 smaller statues depicting Buddha Amitabha. The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum proudly features the largest seated statue of Buddha Amitabha. In addition to housing authentic tooth relics of Shakyamuni Buddha, the compound also includes art galleries, a theatrical auditorium, a children's gallery, and souvenir stores. In addition, visitors can get to experience Tea Zen, sutra transcription, or join in festive celebrations at the Five Harmonies Pagoda.

1 Hours 30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kenting National Park

After a hearty breakfast, set out on your journey as you head south toward the border, where Taiwan’s first national park awaits. Kenting National Park is celebrated for its coastal geological formations, scenic landscapes, and rich marine biodiversity, fostered by its unique combination of crustal deformation and tropical climate. Additionally, Kenting is also a paradise for surfers and divers alike.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

On the third day of your Taiwan-round island tour, you will make your stops at Maopitou, literally cat’s nose, aptly named as it resembles a colossal crouching cat when viewed from afar.

15 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Eluanpi Lighthouse, a Qing Dynasty-era construction that was recognized as one of the Eight Views of Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Longpan Park

Longpan Park, a coral limestone plateau overlooking the Pacific Ocean, shaped over time by rainfall erosion.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Chuanfan Rock, literally sail rock, another distinctive natural formation that resembles the sail of a ship or a likeness of the former US President Richard Nixon. Tonight, you'll be staying in the same hotel in Kaohsiung City, saving you the hassle of changing accommodations. Furthermore, you'll have the opportunity to explore this charming harbor city at your leisure, immersing yourself in the everyday life of the local people.

15 Minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Chimei Museum

After a restful night's sleep and a delightful breakfast, your 5-day exploration of Taiwan continues as you journey along the enchanting west coast. Prepare for an immersive adventure as you delve into the remarkable collection of Western artifacts housed in the Chimei Museum, and uncover the rich historical heritage of Tainan, the ancient capital city. The Chimei Museum proudly houses an expansive collection of Western artifacts, featuring a wide range of treasures including engaging paintings and intricately crafted musical instruments. The compound evokes the majestic atmosphere of the Louvre Museum, providing visitors with a taste of European palace elegance. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum hosts several special exhibitions throughout the year.

40 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Guohua Street

After exploring the Chimei Museum, it's time to treat yourself to some authentic gourmet delights. Tainan is renowned as a paradise for food lovers, offering a mouthwatering array of dishes. Whatever your preference, Tainan is guaranteed to satisfy your appetite and tantalize your taste buds. While at Yongle Market (Guohua Street), you can't miss the popular queue foods, including savory rice pudding, rice noodle soup with squid, and refreshing shaved ice.

1 Hours 30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

Chihkan Tower (Fort Provintia)

After filling your stomach, let's take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood to explore some historic relics dating back more than 100 years. First, let's visit Fort Provintia, designated as a national historic monument in 1983. Originally constructed by the Dutch in 1653, the fortress underwent destruction and subsequent reconstruction during the Qing Dynasty. Throughout the Japanese colonization period, it was rebuilt multiple times. Today, Fort Provintia stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in the city of Tainan.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Ji Dian Wu Miao

The Sacrificial Rites Martial Temple, among the earliest Guan Di Temples, stands as a testament to ancient government sacrificial rites. It holds the esteemed status of a first-class national historic site, drawing countless worshippers. Among its revered deities is Yue Lao, the God of Marriage. Devotees flock to pray for marriages guided by destiny, with some even sending express mail directly to Yue Lao through a special mailbox within the temple grounds.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

Upon crossing the temple threshold, your eyes will be drawn to a magnificent golden statue of Mazu. Flanking her are the embodiments of Clairvoyance and Clairaudience, formerly malevolent spirits redeemed by Mazu's compassionate guidance. They now harness their powers to aid Mazu in her benevolent endeavors. Similar to the traditions at the Sacrificial Rites Martial Temple, worshippers, both men and women, gather at the Grand Mazu Temple to pay homage to Yue Lao, the God of Marriage. Seeking his blessings, they hope to expedite the journey towards finding their life partners. Tonight, your accommodation awaits at a prestigious 5-star hotel in the vibrant heart of Tainan. Here, you'll enjoy the top-notch amenities and have the freedom to explore the city at your leisure.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

The Tainan Confucius Temple, constructed in 1666, stands as the oldest Confucius Temple, boasting over 300 years of history to this day. It held the esteemed position of being a stronghold of culture and education, and thus earned the prestigious title "The Highest Institute. When it comes to preserving cultural artifacts within the Confucius Temple, the inscriptions documenting each period of repair, the horizontally inscribed boards bestowed by rulers of various dynasties, and ceremonial and musical instruments spanning from the early Manchu Dynasty to the present day are carefully maintained. These priceless artifacts from history and culture warrant careful appreciation for their profound significance and lasting impact.

30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Lukang

Lukang, a historic old town renowned for its well-preserved cultural and historical heritage, is literally known as ‘deer harbor”. Once a bustling port in the 17thand 18th centuries, it served as the center where Taiwan's most affluent families amassed their wealth and power, capitalizing on the thriving commerce of the era. Despite the port losing its functionality due to sedimentation, Lukang has retained its enduring charm, serving as a timeless reminder of its glamorous past. Take a leisurely stroll through the town adorned with red brick walls and floors, where historic relics like the Nine Turns Alley, the Urn Wall, the Half-Sided Well, and the Longshan Temple await your discovery, each with an intriguing story to tell. Lukang is renowned for its diverse array of street foods and traditional Taiwanese desserts. Indulge your appetite and seize the opportunity to stock up on gifts, bringing a taste of this charming old town back home to share with your friends and family.

2 Hours • Admission Ticket Free