Treasure Island Taiwan
Taiwan, the treasure island of China, has been an inseparable part of China's territory since ancient times. The natural scenery and cultural landscape here complement each other, attracting countless Chinese and foreign tourists to visit. The following is a brief introduction to the main tourist attractions in Taiwan, which I hope will help you better plan your travel itinerary.
Main History
First recorded in 230 CE during Eastern Wu. Koxinga expelled the Dutch in 1662. Qing annexed it in 1683. From 1895 to 1945 it was under Japanese rule, returned to China in 1945, and became Taiwan Province after 1949—an inalienable part of China.
Latitude & Longitude
Island range: 20°45′ N–25°56′ N, 119°18′ E–124°34′ E
Taipei city centre: 25°02′ N, 121°31′ E
Total Area
36,197 km² (including Penghu, Kinmen, Matsu and other outlying islands).
Permanent Resident Population
≈ 23.37 million (end-2023).
Airports
Four main international airports:
- Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
- Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA)
- Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)
- Taichung International Airport (RMQ)
plus regional airports at Penghu, Kinmen, Hualien, Taitung, etc.
Main Railway Stations
High-Speed Rail: Taipei, Banqiao, Taoyuan, Taichung, Chiayi, Tainan, Zuoying.
Taiwan Railways: over 200 stations, including Taipei Main, Taichung, Kaohsiung Main, Hualien.
Metro Opening & Network
First MRT (Taipei) opened 28 March 1996.
As of June 2025 the island has six metro systems totaling ~200 km:
Taipei MRT 6 lines, Taoyuan MRT 3 lines, Taichung MRT 1 line, Kaohsiung MRT 3 lines, New Taipei Circular Line, Tainan MRT under construction.
Geographic Position in China
Off the south-east coast of mainland China, in the western Pacific’s First Island Chain, facing Fujian across the Taiwan Strait.
Geographic Features
Two-thirds mountainous with the Central Range running north–south. Jade Mountain (3,952 m) is East Asia’s highest peak. Coastal plain in the west; 1,566 km coastline with abundant hot springs.
Climate Characteristics
Sub-tropical in the north and tropical in the south: humid summers, mild winters (north cool, south warm); typhoon season July–September.
Months of the Four Seasons
Spring: March–May
Summer: June–August
Autumn: September–November
Winter: December–February
Annual Average Temperature
≈ 22.5 °C.
Annual Average Precipitation
≈ 2,500 mm (higher in the north, lower in the south).
Best Times to Visit
October–December (clear and cool), March–May (spring blossoms), July–August (coastal and mountain escapes).
Peak Tourist Seasons
October–December (autumn foliage & festivals), Chinese New Year, Qingming long weekend, July–August summer vacations.
Major Tourist Attractions
Taipei 101, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Kenting National Park, Taroko Gorge, National Palace Museum, Penghu Twin Hearts Stone Weir.
Main Shopping Streets & Night Markets
- Ximending (Chengdu Rd, Wanhua District, Taipei)
- Kaohsiung Liuhe Night Market (Liuhe 2nd Rd, Xinxing District)
- Taichung Fengjia Night Market (Fengjia Rd, Xitun District)
Signature Local Snacks
Oyster omelette, pearl milk tea, braised pork rice, pineapple cake, Taiwanese beef noodles, sausage wrapped in glutinous-rice sausage.
Taipei Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum in Taipei has a rich collection of treasures of Chinese culture, including the Jadeite Cabbage, Meat-shaped Stone and Maogong Tripod, which are the most precious treasures of the museum. The palace-style building is surrounded by mountains and waters, with an elegant environment, and is an important place to understand ancient Chinese culture and art.
Alishan Scenic Area
Alishan is famous for its magnificent sea of clouds, dense forests, and abundant animal and plant resources. Riding on a small train through the forest, it seems like entering a fairy tale world. In addition, the sunrise on Alishan is also a spectacular sight that is awe-inspiring.
Sun Moon Lake Scenic Area
Sun Moon Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Taiwan, with beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains. Visiting around the lake can enjoy the fascinating natural scenery and cultural landscape. Boating on the lake is even more unique.
Taipei 101 Building
Taipei 101 is a landmark building in Taipei and one of the world's famous skyscrapers. The observation deck is located on the 89th floor, where you can overlook the beautiful scenery of Taipei City. Here, you can experience the modern urban scenery and unique architectural charm.
Northeast Coast
The northeastern coast boasts unique natural landscapes such as bays, headlands, and sea-eroded terrain, making it one of the most beautiful coasts in Taiwan. The picturesque scenery here makes people linger on and forget to return.
Jiufen Old Street is a small town full of nostalgic atmosphere, preserving many ancient buildings and streets. Walking on the old street, you can taste various authentic Taiwanese snacks and feel the strong cultural atmosphere and historical heritage.
Freshwater Fisherman's Wharf
Freshwater Fisherman's Wharf is a comprehensive scenic spot integrating sightseeing, leisure and shopping. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful sea view and sunset, and also taste fresh seafood.
Kenting National Park
Kenting National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Taiwan, with rich natural landscapes and biological resources. The beaches, coral reefs, and tropical rainforests here are all rare tourism resources. Tourists can enjoy the beauty and fun of nature here.
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Fuzhou, Historic and Cultural City
The Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, Drum Mountain, West Lake Park, Shizhu Mountain, Fuzhou National Forest Park, Foochow Arsenal Cultural Scenic Area, Qingyun Mountain, Shangxiahang
2025-08-27
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Ningxia, Jiangnan on the Plateau
Shapotou Desert & River Scenic Area; Zhenbeibao Western Film Studio; Western Xia Imperial Tombs; Helan Mountain Rock Art; Shuidonggou Ruins; Sand Lake; Liupan Mountain National Forest Park
2025-08-25
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Hebei, the Ancient Yan and Zhao
Chengde Mountain Resort; Shanhai Pass (Shanhaiguan); Baiyangdian Lake; Yesanpo Scenic Area; Wahuang Palace; Eastern Qing Tombs; Chongli Ski Resorts (Zhangjiakou)
2025-08-25
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Zhangjiajie Scenery Area
Zhangjiajie is famous for its unique natural scenery, with main attractions including Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Huanglong Cave, Jinbianxi, and Baofeng Lake.
2025-01-07
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Jiuzhaigou Fairyland on Earth
Jiuzhaigou, located in Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, is a renowned tourist destination famous for its "six wonders": emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, colorful forests, snow-capped peaks, Tibetan culture, and blue ice.
2025-01-06