Craving your next adventure? Taiwan is the perfect 2025 destinationāwhere ancient temples meet buzzing night markets, and tranquil gorges meet high-speed trains. Whether you’re chasing Taiwan food and culture, scenic Taiwan nature travel, or easy Taipei day trips, this island delivers big on beauty, heart, and flavour.
Hereās your must-see travel guide to one of Asiaās most underrated gems.

1. Dive Into Taipeiās Cultural Heart
Taiwanās capital blends old-world charm with neon-lit energy. Start at Longshan Temple, a spiritual oasis surrounded by lanterns and incense. Pop over to the National Palace Museum, which holds over 700,000 Chinese artefactsāincluding ancient jade and calligraphy scrolls.
Art lovers? Donāt miss the Taipei Fine Arts Museum for local contemporary works and photography.
External reads:
2. Take Iconic Taipei Day Trips
Jiufen
This misty hillside townālined with glowing lanterns and steep stairwaysāinspired Spirited Away. Sip oolong tea at a cliffside teahouse while overlooking the sea.
Shifen Waterfall
Taiwanās āLittle Niagaraā is the widest waterfall on the island. You can release a sky lantern along the old railway lineāa charming, photogenic ritual.
Yehliu Geopark
On the coast, youāll find wind-carved wonders like the famous Queenās Head rock formation. A surreal spot for nature lovers and photo buffs alike.

3. Explore Taiwanās Nature Travel Highlights
Taroko Gorge
In Taroko National Park, marble canyons stretch for miles. Hike the Tunnel of Nine Turns, visit the Eternal Spring Shrine, and breathe in that crisp mountain air.
Yangmingshan National Park
Located just outside Taipei, this volcanic park offers sulfur springs, cherry blossoms, and a lush, dramatic landscape.
Alishan
Ride the historic Alishan Forest Railway, see the sun rise over a āsea of clouds,ā and walk among centuries-old cypress trees.
Related post: Top National Parks to Visit in Asia 2025
4. Taste Taiwan: Food & Culture in Every Bite
Din Tai Fungās soup dumplings are world-famousābut Taiwanās food culture extends far beyond the Michelin stars.
Wander night markets like:
- Shilin Night Market for giant fried chicken and fruit ice
- Raohe Night Market for black pepper buns and stinky tofu
- Tonghua Night Market for late-night snacks with locals
Donāt miss bubble tea, pineapple cakes, beef noodle soup, and mango shaved iceāTaiwan is a foodie’s heaven.

5. Local Life, Festivals & Hidden Escapes
Sun Moon Lake
Cycle around the islandās largest lake, visit indigenous cultural centres, and take a paddleboat ride at sunset. The views are postcard-perfect.
East Rift Valley
A paradise for road trippersālush rice paddies, hot springs, and serene towns offer a glimpse into Taiwanās rural soul.
Kinmen Islands
Off the coast, these war-era islands are dotted with old military bunkers and Min-style architectureāoff-the-beaten-path and full of charm.
Festivals to Plan For in 2025:
- Taipei Lantern Festival (Feb): Lanterns light up city streets and temples
- Dragon Boat Festival (June): Races, rice dumplings, and riverside parties
- Ghost Festival (Aug): Traditional performances and spooky vibes!

Smart Travel Tips for 2025
- Cash Is King: Night markets and small vendors often donāt take cards
- Rain Gear Alert: Summer rains can hit hardāpack a light raincoat
- Stay Connected: Local SIMs are affordable and worth grabbing at the airport
- Respect Local Etiquette: Offer and accept with both hands, and be mindful in temples
Taiwan is also celebrated for its safety, accessibility, and LGBTQ+ inclusivityāespecially in Taipei, the first Asian city to legalise same-sex marriage.

Taiwan Is the Full Package
Looking for nature? Head to Taroko, Alishan, and Yehliu.
Hungry? Night markets, Din Tai Fung, and Jiufenās teahouses await.
Into culture? Explore Taipei temples, museums, and festivals.
Want relaxation? Sun Moon Lake and the East Rift Valley say hi.
This island is smallābut the adventures? Limitless.

š Related Articles Youāll Love
- Best Things to Do in Taipei, the Nature-Wrapped Heart of Taiwan ā CN Traveler
- 10 Reasons to Make Taiwan Your 2025 Destination ā NY Post
- 12 Foods That May Help You Live Longer ā Verywell Health
- The Mediterranean Diet & Travel-Friendly Recipes ā EatingWell
Planning a Taiwan trip? Whether you want help crafting a 7-day loop, exploring vegetarian-friendly eats, or comparing guided vs DIY adventuresāweāve got more content coming your way.
Which Taiwan spot are you adding to your bucket listāJiufen? Alishan? Or that juicy night market dumpling stall?