5-Day Best of Taiwan: Sun Moon Lake, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Hualien

Day 1 · Taipei – Sun Moon Lake / Taichung (--/--/--)

1. 1

   Sun Moon Lake

   one hour

   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.

2. 2

   Yidashao Pier

   30 min

   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.

3. 3

   Ci'en Pagoda

   30 min

   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.

4. 4

   Xuanzhuang Temple

   30 min

   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.

5. 5

   Wen Wu Temple

   30 min

   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.

Fleur de Chine Hotel – Mountain View Room, Sun Moon Lake (5-star) / Le Méridien Taichung, Taichung (5-star) / equivalent

Day 2 · Sun Moon Lake / Taichung – Tainan - Fo Guang Shan - Kaohsiung (B/--/--)

1. 1

   Anping Fort (Anping gubao)

   40 min Admission included

   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.

2. 2

   Anping Old Street

   1 h 30 min

   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.

3. 3

   Fo Guang Shan

   1 h 30 min

   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.

Grand Hilai Kaohsiung, Kaohsiung (5-star) / equivalent

Day 3 · Kaohsiung – Kenting – Taitung (B/--/--)

1. 1

   Kenting National Park

   30 min

   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.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   30 min Admission included

   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.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   30 min Admission included

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

4. 4

   Longpan Park

   30 min

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

5. 5

   Stop 5

   15 min

   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.

Hotel Royal Chihpen, Taitung (5-star) / equivalent

Day 4 · Taitung – East Coast – Hualien – Yilan (B/--/--)

1. 1

   Xiouyeliu

   40 min

   After a good night’s sleep and a delectable breakfast, your 5-day tour in Taiwan continues as you journey along the east coast, known as the last unspoiled place of the island. Wherever you go, it never ceases to amaze you with its enchanting natural beauty. You’ll visit some of the most impressive scenic spots along the way, including Xiaoyeliu, Sanxiantai, and Shitiping, each boasting its own distinctive geological features.

   The first stop is Xiaoyehliu (literally “Little Yehliu, or officially “Fugang Geopark”). This area is known for its natural rock formations, resembling those found in Yehliu Geopark on the northern coast of Taiwan, hence the name. Here, you can get up close to these unique landforms, shaped over time by weathering and sea erosion.

2. 2

   Sanxiantai

   40 min

   Your adventure continues with a visit to Sanxiantai (literally the terrace of the three immortals), which comprises an offshore island and coral reefs, with a cross-sea bridge that connects the mainland to the island, serving as a prominent landmark in the East Coast National Scenic Area.

3. 3

   Shihtiping

   40 min

   After exploring Sanxiantai, you will make a stop at Shitiping (literally stone steps). This area is a well-developed sea erosion terrace, featuring promontories along the coastline that have been eroded by sea water over millions of years. This natural process has created an abrasion platform, sea grooves, sea cliffs, and potholes, making Shitiping a world-class outdoor geology classroom.

   From Hualien to Yilan, you will experience one-way comfortable train ride.

   Tonight, you’ll stay at a 5-star hot-spring hotel in Jiaoxi.

Wellspring by Silks Jiaoxi (5-star) / Hotel Royal Chiaohsi (5-star) / equivalent

Day 5 · Yilan – Taipei (B/--/--)

1. 1

   King Car Kavalan Distillery

   1 h 30 min

   After enjoying hotel breakfast, get ready for the last day of your five-day island tour. Today, the guide will take you to visit the King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery and the National Center for Traditional Arts.

   Start the day with visit to “King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery”, known worldwide for its exquisite flavors brewed from the clear water sources of the Central Mountain Range and the Xueshan Mountain Range. Immerse yourself in the rich aroma of whisky and experience the unique flavors nurtured in oak barrels, embarking on a fascinating distillery exploration journey.

2. 2

   National Center for Traditional Arts

   3 hours Admission included

   Continue to visit "National Center for Traditional Arts", a vast park featuring various exquisite traditional Taiwanese buildings. Here you can immerse yourselves in Taiwan's rich heritage through exhibitions, performances, and workshops. From puppet shows to pottery making, there's something for everyone.

   Conclude your unforgettable 5-day round island tour by taking bus back to Taipei City.

   You will be dropped off at your hotel or designated drop-off point.