Discover Taiwan: The Affordable, Underrated Gem of Asia You Need to Visit. When travelers think of Asia, countries like Japan, Thailand, or Bali often top the list. But nestled quietly off the coast of China is Taiwan — a country that offers breathtaking nature, rich culture, amazing street food, and surprising affordability without the typical tourist crowds.
If you’re craving authentic experiences, warm-hearted locals, and budget-friendly travel, Taiwan should be your next adventure.
🛍 A Brief Look at Taiwan’s History
Taiwan’s history is a fascinating blend of ancient cultures, colonial rule, and democratic evolution:
- Indigenous roots trace back thousands of years, with diverse tribes still preserving their unique traditions.
- In the 1600s, Taiwan was colonized by the Dutch and later taken over by the Qing Dynasty.
- In the late 1800s, Taiwan became a colony of Japan for 50 years, leaving behind railway systems and architecture.
- After WWII, it returned to Chinese governance, and in 1949, the Republic of China moved its government to Taiwan, making it the democratic, vibrant nation it is today.
This cultural layering makes Taiwan incredibly unique — a blend of Chinese traditions, Japanese aesthetics, and indigenous soul.
😍 Why Visit Taiwan?
Taiwan isn’t just a place to visit — it’s a place to experience. Here’s why travelers who go once often come back again and again:
🌿 1. Incredible Natural Beauty
- Towering mountains like Yushan (Jade Mountain) — East Asia’s tallest peak
- Jaw-dropping gorges like Taroko
- Serene beaches and lush forests
- Over 100 hot springs (some wild and free!)
You can wake up on a mountain trail and end your day surfing a beach — all in the same day.
🍜 2. Legendary Street Food Culture
- Affordable bites at night markets
- Michelin-rated meals at food stalls
- Fusion of Chinese, Japanese, Hakka, and Indigenous flavors
Whether you’re a foodie or just hungry, Taiwan is heaven.
💏 3. Deep, Living Culture
- Traditional Taoist and Buddhist temples alongside high-tech skyscrapers
- Centuries-old festivals like the Lantern Festival and Dragon Boat Festival
- Indigenous cultures with distinct languages and music
Taiwan embraces its past without being stuck in it.
🚲 4. Adventure is Everywhere
- Hike to misty mountain peaks
- Cycle around the island (there’s a bike route that circles the entire country!)
- Surf on the east coast, or dive in crystal-clear waters
- Soak in hot springs nestled in the forest
Adventure in Taiwan feels accessible — and incredibly rewarding.
🏙️ 5. Taipei is One of Asia’s Coolest Cities
- Super safe, walkable neighborhoods
- Buzzing cafe and art scene
- Epic bookstores, design shops, and creative markets
- High-speed internet and digital nomad-friendly spaces
Plus, the Taipei MRT is clean, punctual, and multilingual — a dream for any traveler.
❤️ 6. The People Are Incredibly Kind
- Locals will help you if you’re lost — even walk you to your destination
- Street vendors may offer samples just to share their food
- You’ll feel welcomed, not sold to
Even with limited English in rural areas, a smile goes a long way.
🧘 7. It’s the Perfect Balance
Taiwan strikes a rare travel balance:
- Developed but not overwhelming
- Traditional but innovative
- Affordable but comfortable
- Adventurous but safe
It’s a country that feels “just right” — especially if you’re a conscious traveler seeking connection over crowds.
🚎 Getting Around Taiwan
Taiwan’s public transport is world-class, efficient, and easy to navigate — even if you don’t speak Mandarin.
✨ Transport Options:
- High-Speed Rail (HSR): Fast and comfortable — perfect for cross-country trips. (e.g., Taipei to Kaohsiung in 1.5 hours)
- TRA Trains: Slower, scenic trains that stop at smaller towns and coastlines.
- Metro (MRT): Clean, fast subways in major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung.
- Buses: Extensive intercity and rural bus systems for budget travel.
- YouBike (Public Bicycles): Rent a bike for pennies to explore cities at your pace.
- Car or Scooter Rentals: Ideal for exploring mountains and rural areas like Hualien or Taroko Gorge.
💡 Tip: Get an EasyCard at any convenience store or MRT station to pay for trains, buses, and bikes.
📍 Top 10 Non-Touristy Places to Visit in Taiwan
1. Dulan (Taitung)
A sleepy coastal village popular with surfers, artists, and backpackers. Great for laid-back beach vibes, Aboriginal art, and stargazing.
2. Lukang Old Street
An old port town with preserved temples, red-brick lanes, and lantern-lit alleys. Rich in history but often skipped by big tour groups.
3. Alishan Forest Railway
Ride a 100-year-old train through misty cypress forests to see magical sunrises and ancient trees. Far less crowded than Taiwan’s other mountain areas.
4. Nanzhuang (Miaoli County)
A peaceful Hakka village filled with traditional snacks, tea houses, and hillside trails. It’s like stepping into a slower era.
5. Jiji (Nantou)
Taiwan’s smallest township — full of quirky bike trails, railway nostalgia, and rural scenery. A hidden gem for slow travelers.
6. Taroko Gorge (off-peak areas)
Instead of the main tourist stops, explore lesser-known trails like Shakadang or Lushui — equally stunning, more peaceful.
7. Tainan’s Alleyways
Tainan is Taiwan’s oldest city. Skip the big temples and wander the backstreets to find family-run tofu shops, hidden gardens, and indie cafes.
8. Penghu Islands
A windswept archipelago off Taiwan’s west coast. Think turquoise waters, basalt cliffs, and local seafood — without the crowds.
9. Xitou Nature Education Area
A quiet forest park in Nantou, perfect for forest bathing, treehouse walks, and nature therapy.
10. Sanxia and Yingge
Quaint villages near Taipei, famous for ceramics, tea, and centuries-old architecture — ideal for a calm day trip.
🍝 Bonus: Taiwan’s Street Food is Life-Changing
Don’t leave without trying:
- Lu Rou Fan (braised pork rice)
- Scallion pancakes
- Oyster omelets
- Stinky tofu (yes, it’s a rite of passage)
- Bubble tea (born in Taiwan!)
Head to local night markets like:
- Ningxia Night Market (Taipei)
- Liuhe Night Market (Kaohsiung)
- Tainan Flower Night Market
✈️ Final Thoughts: Why Taiwan Should Be Your Next Trip
Taiwan is that magical mix of affordable, safe, and deeply authentic. Whether you’re hiking coastal cliffs, soaking in a hot spring, sipping tea in a 300-year-old house, or eating your way through a night market — this island leaves a mark on your heart.
It’s the kind of place that surprises you — not just with its beauty, but with how at home you feel.
