While Taiwan's history may be relatively concise in comparison to Western cultures, it intricately weaves together a variety of influences spanning from ancient times to the present day. It began with 16 aboriginal tribes on the island, followed by Dutch and Spanish colonial periods, Han rule, Japanese occupation, and a return to Han control. This complex past has left a rich tapestry of cultural remnants across the island.

Set out on an exploration of Taiwan's distinctive historical sites. If you're intrigued by these destinations but unsure where to start, our Around Taiwan 8 Day Private Tour (Classic) itinerary can provide inspiration. When you're ready to turn your travel dreams into reality, simply complete the form, and a MyTaiwanTour agent will be there to guide you.

 

 

Fo Guang Shan

In Kaohsiung's Dashu district, the renowned Fo Guang Shan Monastery houses the impressive Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum with the iconic golden Big Buddha statue. This site is a must-visit for Kaohsiung tourists, featuring exhibitions like a Buddhist festival gallery and underground palaces with artifacts, including a tooth relic of Sakyamuni Buddha. The 40-meter-high Fo Guang Big Buddha, made from 1,800 tons of metal, reaches 108 meters in total, a sacred number in Buddhism.

 

Indigenous Tribes

The East Rift Valley, nestled between Hualien and Taitung, is a picturesque and serene part of the country. Historically isolated by mountains and oceans, it's predominantly inhabited by indigenous tribes, notably the Amis. Here, you can readily engage in their rich cultural experiences.

 

The Grand Hotel

Certainly the most illustrious hotel in Taiwan, The Grand Hotel (圓山大飯店) has served as a central location for significant occasions in real life and in media for nearly seven decades. Its majestic and lavish classical Chinese architecture stands as a prominent urban landmark, second only to Taipei 101. From accommodating foreign dignitaries and celebrities to providing a backdrop for film crews, the hotel's magnificence permeates its accommodations and dining areas.

 

Taipei Zoo

As Taiwan's largest and most diverse zoo, Taipei Zoo holds a dual role: it entices tourists and serves as an educational hub. If you're seeking an enchanting getaway from the city that offers a captivating glimpse into varied animal habitats and lifestyles, Maokong is an excellent option.

 

Tamsui

A visit to Tamsui offers a full day of exploration. Tamsui Old Street is a must for renowned iron eggs and the surreal Believe It Or Not Museum. Along the riverbank, watch herons fish and enjoy fairground-style games. Don't miss trying ah-gei at the Original Ah-Gei Store. Climb Alley 14 to discover the Victorian-style Red Castle, now a restaurant and terrace bar. Downstream, explore Fort Antonio and the Former British Consular Residence. Uphill, find the charming Little White House, a colonial-style gem with a meticulously tended garden.

 

 Bopiliao Historic Block

Discover the Bopiliao Historic Block (剝皮寮歷史街區), an evocative enclave boasting meticulously preserved traditional structures. Another captivating site is Nishi Honganji Square (西本願寺廣場), once the location of the Nishi Honganji Temple during the Japanese colonial era. Today, remnants of this temple can be observed, including the Nishi Honganji Bell Tower (西本願寺鐘樓), Jushin Assembly Hall (樹心會館), and Abbot's Residence (輪番所).

 

National Palace Museum (Southern Branch)

Located in Chiayi, the National Palace Museum's lesser-known southern branch in Taiwan is a hidden gem. With a captivating blend of Chinese, Persian, and Indian design influences, a manmade lake, and three traditional Chinese painting styles, this site is a must-see. From Buddhist artworks to Asian textiles, the collection is diverse, and you might even spot famous pieces from the Taipei museum, like the Meat Shaped Stone or the Jadeite Cabbage.

 

Luye Highland Hot Air Balloon

For numerous years, the Taiwan International Balloon Festival has captivated over a million hot air balloon enthusiasts. Each summer, colorful hot air balloons grace the skies above Luye Highland, adding splendor to Taitung's vistas. This festival lures global tourists to relish Taitung's mesmerizing landscapes from this enchanting mode of transport, making it the world's most extended balloon festival.

 

Tainan Temples

Temple exploration draws many to Tainan. The Guan Gong Temple, established in 1665 and devoted to the Martial Deity Guang Gong, features multiple altars honoring various gods, in line with Taoist tradition. Nearby, the revered Fu Cheng Huan Temple, dating back to 1669, venerates the god of the underworld. And naturally, Tainan's Confucius Temple (initiated concurrently with the Guan Gong Temple) stands as the oldest and arguably the most impeccably preserved Confucius Temple in Taiwan.

 

Anping Castle

Constructed by the Dutch in 1624, Fort Zeelandia stood proudly on a sandbar, shaping a protective harbor. The once-called "inner sea" is now history, with remnants preserved at Anping Gubao – "Anping Ancient Fortress." Though not entirely intact, the site exudes a remarkable presence, complemented by informative English signs detailing the ruins and ongoing excavations. A hilltop maritime-customs building houses a small museum, a testament to Japanese occupation (1895~1945).

 

Liuhe Night Market (South - Kaohsiung)

Liu He, hailed as the premier tourist night market in the south, impresses with its abundant stalls, clear English signage, and easy navigation. While offering typical night market fare, seafood takes the spotlight here. Follow your senses to find stalls grilling oysters, shrimp, and lobster tails. Set in Taiwan's agricultural heartland, this market becomes a haven for indulging in the nation's exquisite fruits, including unique finds.

 

Lei-Cha (Hakka Pound Tea)

Lei-cha, a staple of the Hakka ethnic group, holds a special place in their culinary tradition. Rooted in the Hakka community's history of living in modest conditions, this nourishing drink was often served to guests. It involved stir-frying various grains, incorporating tea leaves, grinding the mixture, and infusing it with hot water. Like "mian cha (麵茶)," Lei-Cha is not only filling but also packed with nutrition, offering a fulfilling experience.

 

Antique Assam Tea Farm

Located at Sun Moon Lake, the Antique Assam Tea Farm is a picturesque spot to explore Taiwan's tea history and sample its famous teas. A pre-booked tour offers insights into the tea-making process within the beautiful warehouse with open doors and windows for a refreshing breeze. Learn about organic farming beliefs and enjoy an organic vegetable buffet. Be sure to taste the renowned "Ruby Red" black tea, also known as "Red Jade" or Tea #18.