【Road Trip】How to Discover Taiwan's Hidden Gems by Road Trip

As a renowned tourist destination in Asia, Taiwan is filled with the mysterious charm of Eastern culture and stunning natural landscapes. Known as the "Treasure Island," Taiwan truly lives up to its name, with breathtaking scenery between its endless coastlines and lush mountains, such as Ali Mountain, Moon Lake, Qingjing Farm, and Chingshui Cliff, attracting travelers worldwide. Taiwan is also rich in historical sites, with ancient temples, century-old streets, and the palace museum silently narrating the stories of its past. With vibrant neon lights, crashing waves, and unlimited scenic beauty, grab your self-drive guide and head to Taiwan!

One of China's two island provinces, Taiwan is located on the continental shelf off the southeast coast of China, including Taiwan Island and its affiliated islands and the PescadoresIslands. Taiwan Island is China's largest island and the world's 38th largest, stretching about 395 kilometers from north to south and up to 145 kilometers wide from east to west. It is a crucial maritime hub for China and the Asia-Pacific region.

Surrounded by the sea, Taiwan Island boasts diverse coastal landscapes, making it become a varied and unique coastal region in China. Shaped like a banana leaf, the island is divided into five major terrains: mountains, hills, basins, plains, and plateaus. Over half of the area is mountainous, with the central mountain range dividing the island into asymmetrical eastern and western parts.

Taiwan is a dazzling gem on the world map. Its 1,200-kilometer coastal line features towering cliffs and crashing waves on the east, while the west showcases colorful rock formations and mysterious caves. Magnificent temples and historic streets immerse visitors in the traditional culture world. Bustling night markets and food courts are perfect for tasting Taiwanese delicacies. Whether it's natural beauty or cultural heritage, Taiwan is a captivating place that leaves a lasting impression.

Ethnic Minorities: Taiwan's indigenous peoples, such as the Amis with their lively dances, the Bunun with their ancient harmonies, and the Tao with their unique island culture, offer a colorful cultural tapestry.

Language: Minnan is the primary dialect in Taiwan, closely related to the dialects of Xiamen and Zhangzhou in Fujian.

1. Car Rental Documents

① Original passport of the driver;

② An international driving permit is required for driving in Taiwan. Mainland Chinese licenses need to be converted to a third-party license (e.g., Hong Kong, USA) to obtain an international permit.

③ An international credit card with embossed numbers and a chip under the main driver's name, with a limit covering the deposit;

④ A car rental voucher provided by Ctrip upon order confirmation.

2. Recommended Apps

Google Maps: The common used navigation app, providing excellent route planning for both driving and public transport. It also offers detailed restaurant ratings and reviews.

3. Essential Items

(1) Car Phone Holder: Taiwan's traffic rules prohibit using handheld phones while driving, so a phone holder is necessary.

(2) Child Seat: Required for children under four years or 18 kilograms, with hefty fines for non-compliance. Available as an "accessory product" on Ctrip's car rental page.

1. Traffic Rules

Driving in Taiwan is not difficult for those familiar with driving in mainland China. Understanding Taiwan's traffic rules and signs is essential for a smooth driving experience. Here are some key rules:

(1) Seat Belts: All passengers must wear seat belts, including those in the back.

(2) Drive on the Right: Vehicles drive on the right, similar to mainland China.

(3) Yield to Pedestrians: Pedestrians have the right of way.

(4) Right of Way: Straight vehicles and larger vehicles have priority.

(5) Speed Limits: Follow posted signs, with city limits of 40-50 km/h and highways at 100-110 km/h.

2. Common Signs

(1) STOP Sign: Must stop for 3 seconds.

(2) YIELD Sign: Slow down and prepare to stop, allowing other vehicles to pass.

(3) NO PASSING ZONE: No overtaking allowed.

3. Highway Fees

(1) Toll: Taiwan's highways mostly use ETC (Electronic Toll Collection).

(2) Payment: Fees are settled after returning the car, along with any fines.

4. Refueling and Parking

(1) Refueling: Gas stations operate during regular hours, with some open 24/7. Staff usually assist with refueling, but self-service is available. Follow the car's fuel type or ask for assistance.

(2) Fuel Prices: Similar to mainland China, with diesel 10-15% cheaper than gasoline.

(3) Parking: Special spaces like disabled and maternity spots are off-limits; red-lined areas are no-parking zones; yellow-lined areas allow parking for up to three minutes. White boxes at intersections are for motorcycles only.

(4) Payment: City parking costs 20-30 NTD/hour. Roadside parking requires a timed ticket from staff, payable at convenience stores like 7-11. Night parking is free from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.

5. Recommended Vehicle

Due to Taiwan's complex terrain, a powerful vehicle is recommended.

6. Car Rental Tips

Check if the supplier supports free one-way rentals, as some may charge for this service.

1. Taiwan Island Loop

With its endless coastlines, the 1,200-kilometer island loop offers stunning views and famous attractions like Ali Mountain, Moon Lake, and Kenting Park. If time allows, don't miss this loop, starting from Taipei and circling back, allowing you to enjoy the island's beauty at your own pace.

(1) Itinerary: Taipei → Ilan → Taitung → Pingtung → Kaohsiung → Tainan → Chiayi → Taichung → Jiufen → Taipei

DAY1: Presidential Palace—Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall—Shilin Official Residence—the palace museum—101 Building

DAY2: Ilan—Toucheng old street—Yilan Station—Jiaoxi Hot Springs Park—Happiness Transfer Station—Luodong Night Market

DAY3: Taitung—Chishang rice lunch box—Brown's Road—Dapo chi

DAY4: Ping tung—Dragon plate park—Eluanbi Park—Eluanbi Light house—White Sand Shore—Longluan Lake

DAY5: Kaohsiung—E-DA World—85 Sky Tower—Hsitzuwan—liuhenightmarket

DAY6: Tainan—Anping Old Street—Sitsao Wetland—Taijiang National Park—JingzijiaoWapanSaltFields

DAY7: Chiayi—Fenchihu—Ali Mountain—Eryan Ping Trail

DAY8: Tai chung—Rainbow Village—Qingjing Farm—Moon Lake

DAY9: Jiufen Old Street—shifen waterfall—Ten Heavenly Lanterns—Tai pei

(2) Driving Distance: 1,000 kilometers

(3) Suggested Duration: 9 days

(4) Suitable for: General public

(5) Must-Visit Attractions

101 Building:

Located in Taipei's Xinyi District, this iconic skyscraper combines offices, an observatory, and a shopping center. The 89th-floor observatory offers great views, photography services, audio guides, an ice cream shop, and a souvenir store.

85 Sky Tower:

Also known as TC Tower, this famous skyscraper in Kaohsiung features a unique design by architect Li Zuyuan. The tower merges into a single structure above the 35th floor, reaching up to 85 floors. It houses a department store, a magical world, and an open observatory with stunning views on clear days.

Moon Lake:

Synonymous with Taiwan's scenic beauty, MoonLake is surrounded by mountains and lush forests, with crystal-clear waters. The small island in the lake creates a picturesque scene, with the northern half resembling a sun and the southern half a crescent moon, giving the lake its name.

Rainbow Village:

Near Ling Tung University in Taichung, this old military dependents' village was transformed by retired soldier Huang Yung-Fu, who painted vibrant rainbows and cute animals on the streets. Known as "Rainbow Village," it attracts photographers and art lovers, with Huang affectionately called "Rainbow Grandpa."

Ali Mountain:

Located in Chiayi County, Ali Mountain is known for its mild climate and is a popular summer retreat. Famous for its sunrise, sea of clouds, sunset, and forests, it offers breathtaking views with towering peaks and lush greenery.

2. Taitung Mini Loop

For those with limited time or budget, this shorter loop captures the essence of Taiwan's beauty, including lakes, mountains, sea views, farms, and wetlands. It also features cultural sites like thepalacemuseum, RainbowVillage, and FormosanAboriginalCultureVillage, along with local night markets for a taste of Taiwanese cuisine.

(1) Itinerary: Taipei → Hualien → Nantou → Taichung → Taipei

DAY1: Taipei—Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall—the palace museum—Eslite—101 Building—Ningxia Road Night Market

DAY2: Hualien—Chihsingtan Beach—Taroko—Chingshui Cliff—Farglory Ocean Park

DAY3: Nantou—Qingjing Farm—Moon Lake—Sky bridge—Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village

DAY4: Taichung—Gaomei Wetland—Miyahara—Rainbow Village

DAY5: Taipei—Yangming Mountain—YinYang Sea—Jiufen Old Street—Ten Heavenly Lanterns

(2) Driving Distance: 560 kilometers

(3) Suggested Duration: 5 days

(4) Suitable for: General public

(5) Must-Visit Attractions

Chihsingtan Beach:

A crescent-shaped beach perfect for sunrise, stargazing, and moon watching. In summer, the sunrise at 5 AM is a spectacular sight, while stargazing on moonless nights offers a clear view of the Milky Way.

the palace museum:

Located in Taipei's Shilin District, this museum houses a vast collection of Chinese artifacts, with around 650,000 pieces. Known for its exhibits, the museum changes displays every three months and hosts special exhibitions.

Qingjing Farm:

Situated in Nantou County, this 760-hectare farm offers stunning views of lush hillsides. Each season brings unique beauty, from spring blossoms to summer greenery, autumn wildflowers, and winter snow-capped peaks.

Gaomei Wetland:

Located in Taichung, this wetland features diverse habitats and is a haven for migratory birds in winter. The sight of wind turbines against a colorful sunset is a breathtaking experience.

Taiwan East Coast Drive

Kenting's beaches are a perfect blend of blue waters and white sands, unmatched by other "Little Kentings." For an authentic Taiwanese seaside experience, head to Kenting, a favorite vacation spot for locals. This route starts in Taipei and heads south to the island's southern tip, offering sunshine, warm breezes, and the romantic vibes of Taiwanese dramas.

(1) Itinerary: Taipei → Hualien → Taitung → Kenting → Kaohsiung

DAY1: Taipei—Hsimenting—Yangming Mountain—YinYang Sea—Jiufen Old Street—TenHeavenlyLanterns

DAY2: Hualien—Chihsingtan Beach—Taroko—Chingshui Cliff—Farglory Ocean Park

DAY3: Taitung—Chishangrice lunch box—Brown's Road—Dapo chi

DAY4: Kenting—Dragon plate park—Eluanbi Park—Eluanbi Light house—White Sand Shore—Longluan Lake

DAY5: Formosa Boulevard—Hsitzuwan—Qijin Shell Museum—Qijin Rainbow Church—liuhe night market

(2) Driving Distance: 550 kilometers

(3) Suggested Duration: 5 days

(4) Suitable for: General public

(5) Must-Visit Attractions

Taroko:

Located in eastern Taiwan, Taroko offers majestic gorges, waterfalls, and the heritage of the Taroko people. The national park spans 92,000 hectares, with famous sites like Shakadang Trail, Eternal Spring Shrine, Swallow Grotto, and the Taroko Gorge.

Qijin Shell Museum:

One of the largest shell museum in Southeast Asia, located in Qijin Coastal Park's visitor center. It features nearly 2,000 shell species, donated by Mr. Huang Ge-liang, with free guided tours.

Longluan Lake:

Located on the Hengchun Peninsula, the park is named after a coral reef resembling a crouching cat. The area features unique geological formations and is ideal for viewing the Taiwan Strait coastline.

Chihsingtan Beach:

A crescent-shaped beach perfect for sunrise, stargazing, and moon-watching. In summer, the sunrise at 5 AM is a spectacular sight, while stargazing on moonless nights offers a clear view of the Milky Way.

Beef Noodles: A Chinese national favorite, with vendors striving for the perfect combination of tender beef and rich broth. Varieties include braised and clear broth, often served with stewed beef and tendons.

Braised Pork Rice: A popular dish made with rice, pork belly, shallots, and spices. The key is the flavorful meat sauce, with variations in Tainan, Taichung, and Taipei.

Mianxian: A common Taiwanese dish, with variations like longevity noodles, pig's trotter noodles, and sesame oil noodles. Oyster noodles, made with oysters and noodles, are a must-try, often paired with chili sauce, vinegar, garlic, and cilantro.

Oyster Omelette: Crispy on the outside, with a chewy texture from sweet potato and cornstarch batter, topped with a sweet and spicy sauce. Fresh oysters and vegetables add a burst of flavor, making it a night market favorite.

Pineapple Cake: A sweet treat with a crumbly crust and a sweet, tangy filling, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

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