First settled around 6,000 years ago by Taiwanese indigenous peoples, Taiwan lies in the East China Sea surrounded by Japan, China and the Philippines. It’s home to more than 23 million people, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world and lures visitors in with its enticing gastronomy, energised cities and spectacular natural landscapes.

Things to do

From the bustling cities of the west coast to the rugged mountains and beautiful beaches of the east, Taiwan is just waiting to be explored.

Explore Taipei. Clustered with modern skyscrapers, vibrant shopping districts and cultural museums, Taipei serves as the capital of Taiwan. After riding the rapid elevator up the 509-metre-tall Taipei 101 building, discover the diversity of Taiwanese cuisine at the sprawling Shilin Night Market.

Cruise Sun Moon Lake. Nestled in the foothills of the Central Mountain Range, Sun Moon Lake’s turquoise waters are surrounded by forested peaks that are best appreciated by boat. You can get a bird’s eye view from the cable car ropeway before learning about Taiwan’s indigenous culture at the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.

Visit Taroko National Park’s gorge. Dominated by soaring mountain peaks, Taroko National Park is a biodiversity hotspot carved by the Liwu River. You can follow one of the hiking trails that cling to its cliffs and admire the waterfall of the Eternal Spring Shrine, then be awed by the marble walls of the Taroko Gorge.

Kick back in Kenting National Park. Sprawling across the Hengchun Peninsula at Taiwan’s southern tip, Kenting National Park is a stunning natural area that boasts white sandy beaches, rocky outcrops and coral reefs. Spend your days swimming, scuba diving and surfing along the picturesque coast before hitting the street food stalls and bars of Kenting Town.

Getting around

Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei and Kaohsiung International Airport are the main gateways to Taiwan, with both servicing international flights to major cities across the globe. An efficient train network connects towns and cities in all corners of the island while an extensive bus network accesses more remote destinations. Taipei’s subway system is clean and convenient, with taxis also readily available.