Our Taiwan Itinerary: Shifen, Jiufen, Taipingshan & Alishan (Best Things to Do in Taiwan)

GetYourGuide Tour: Shifen and Jiufen Day Trip
One of the easiest ways to explore northern Taiwan is by booking a guided tour through GetYourGuide. We simply hopped on the bus and let our guide take care of everything, which made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Our first stop was the stunning Shifen Waterfall. The power of the cascading water, combined with the mist and roaring sound, made it a truly breathtaking natural attraction. It is easily one of the most impressive waterfalls in Taiwan.

Next, we visited Shifen Old Street, where we experienced the famous sky lantern tradition. Writing our wishes and watching the lantern float into the sky felt both meaningful and memorable. The staff also doubled as photographers, helping us capture great photos during the launch.
For snacks, we tried the popular stuffed chicken wing. It is a unique street food where savory rice is packed inside a grilled chicken wing. It was filling enough to keep us going through the afternoon. We also grabbed some ice cream while strolling along the street.

By evening, we arrived at Jiufen Old Street. This mountain town is known for its nostalgic charm and is often linked to the anime Spirited Away due to its lantern-lit tea house. As expected, the place was packed with tourists.

Instead of staying in the crowd for long, we found a local spot to enjoy a comforting bowl of beef noodles. The beef was tender with just the right amount of fat, and the noodles were firm, served in a rich and savory broth. It was perfect for the chilly evening weather.
Our final stop was Raohe Night Market. Right at the entrance, we tried the famous black pepper pork bun, freshly baked and full of flavor. As we explored further, we discovered our first XXL fried chicken in Taiwan. Crispy, well-seasoned, and truly massive, it was the perfect way to end the night.

Taipingshan Day Tour from KKDay
We joined another guided trip, this time booking a Taipingshan Day Tour through KKDay. We met our guide at Yilan Station early in the morning and traveled in a comfortable 7-seater vehicle.

Although we were informed the night before that an English-speaking guide was unavailable, our Chinese-speaking guide made a genuine effort to communicate with us throughout the trip.

We paid separately for entrance to Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area, and it was absolutely worth it.
Our first stop was the Jianqing Historic Trail, an 800-meter trail offering scenic mountain views and remnants of an old railway line. It was a gentle hike with rewarding views.

We also experienced the Bong Bong Train, a historic timber transport railway that runs along a cliffside route. It added a unique and nostalgic touch to the journey.
Another highlight was hiking the Maosing Reminiscent Trail. Surrounded by towering trees and fresh mountain air, it was both refreshing and peaceful.

We then headed to Jiuzhize Hot Springs, where we tried boiling corn as a snack. Visitors can also boil eggs, and within minutes they are ready to eat. It was a simple but fun experience, especially while exploring the area and crossing the hanging bridge.
Before ending the tour, we stopped for Aiyu jelly, a natural plant-based dessert that reminded me of gulaman from the Philippines. Light and refreshing, it was a perfect way to wrap up the day.
This full-day tour was far from tiring. Instead, it left us amazed by the natural beauty of Taipingshan.

Alishan Hiking and Sunrise Experience
Our trip to Alishan National Scenic Area was one of the highlights of our Taiwan itinerary. Our hotel package included tickets for the famous sunrise train, so we woke up at 4 AM to catch it.
It was a cold January morning, from the train ride to the viewing platform, but everything felt worth it. Watching the sunrise slowly appear from behind the mountains was a quiet and powerful moment. It gives you a sense of hope and reminds you to be grateful for a new day.
After breakfast, we explored several key attractions including the Three-Generation Trees, Alishan Museum, Alishan Shouzhen Temple, and the Sister Ponds.

Walking among the giant trees was a humbling experience. Their size and presence are truly majestic, and being surrounded by them made the hike both calming and memorable.


Taipei 101 Visit
A trip to Taipei would not be complete without visiting Taipei 101. We purchased our tickets and headed up, but not before stopping at the highest café in the building for coffee.
The observation deck offers incredible panoramic views of Taipei. One of the most interesting features is the massive golden damper inside the building. This engineering marvel helps stabilize the tower during strong winds and earthquakes. There is even a video exhibit showing how it moves during seismic activity.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Taipei 101 offers Skyline 460, which allows visitors to walk on an open-air platform. Personally, I was happy enjoying the view safely from inside the 88th floor.

National Railway Museum Taiwan
As train enthusiasts, visiting the National Railway Museum Taiwan was a must. Taiwan’s railway system is known for its efficiency, similar to what we experienced in countries like Switzerland, Japan, and the UK.
One of the highlights is the Diesel-Electric Locomotive Workshop, displayed in the restored Taipei Railway Workshop. It feels like stepping into a real maintenance facility.
The museum offers an immersive experience with lighting effects and audio-visual displays. A standout feature is the simulation of a train undergoing a scan, where you can see its internal components as if it were an X-ray. It showcases how far Taiwan’s railway technology has come.

Massage Experience in Zhongshan
After days of walking and exploring, we treated ourselves to a massage at Bu Lao Song Massage.

I’ll admit, at first glance, the place gave off a modest, almost low-key vibe. The area around Xinsheng in Zhongshan District reminded me of Avenida in Manila, with its dim lighting and quieter streets. It made me wonder what to expect.

But everything changed the moment we stepped inside. The place was fully packed, which immediately told us that people trust and keep coming back for their service.

Before the massage, our tired feet were soaked in a warm herbal broth, setting the tone for relaxation. The full body and foot massage that followed was both refreshing and rejuvenating. It was the kind of pressure that feels intense in the best way possible. I even found myself drifting off a few times.

By the end of the session, we felt completely recharged. It was the perfect way to recover after days of exploring Taipei.

KKDay app product page for the Taipingshan National Forest Day Tour featuring small group 7-seater vehicle options.

GetYourGuide app interface showing a confirmed booking for the Shifen and Jiufen day tour from Taipei.

We all love a good deal—and let’s be real, Klook has been the “OG giant” sitting comfortably in our travel apps for years. But ever felt like you’re just another booking in a sea of thousands? Sometimes, you just want something a little more you, not a cookie-cutter itinerary.
Well, here’s the tea — GetYourGuide and KKDay are seriously stepping up the game, and they might just become your new travel besties.

GetYourGuide: Effortless Adventures Done Right
For Taiwan’s iconic Shifen & Jiufen route, I ditched the DIY stress and went with GetYourGuide—and WOW, zero regrets. From the moment we hopped on the bus, everything was handled like clockwork. No confusing train transfers, no guessing games.

The best part? We wrapped up the day at Raohe Night Market, feasting on that legendary XXL Chicken (yes, Stall 95… trust me on this 😋).

Why you need to book at GetYourGuide: Smooth, stress-free, and perfect for ticking off those must-see spots without breaking a sweat.

KKDay: Cozy, Curated, and a Little Bit Fancy
Then came my KKDay experience—completely different vibe, in the best way possible. Think: small group, comfy 7-seater ride, and a journey up to Taipingshan that felt more like a road trip with friends than a tour.

We met bright and early at Yilan Station, and from there, it was all misty mountains, fresh air, and pure serenity.

Why you need to book at KKDay: If you love nature and prefer something more personal and less “tour bus energy,” KKDay absolutely delivers.

Pro Tip: Mix & Match for the Win. 
Here’s the real hack—don’t limit yourself to just one platform. I used GetYourGuide for the iconic, bucket-list spots and KKDay for those deeper, more immersive adventures.

The result? The perfect Taiwan trip—zero stress, all vibes 🙌
Ready to plan your own adventure?

 
Go ahead and check out GetYourGuide and KKDay for the latest deals, exclusive tours, and those sweet skip-the-line perks. Your future self will thank you 😉

 

Panoramic view of Shifen Waterfall in Taiwan, the most impressive natural attraction in New Taipei City.

  

Yellow historic Bong Bong Train traveling through the misty mountain forests of Taipingshan National Forest.

   

Breathtaking 4 AM sunrise view from the Alishan National Scenic Area observation deck in winter.

 

Restored vintage trains and diesel-electric locomotives at the National Railway Museum Taiwan.

Don’t Get Fined! 3 Taiwan Laws Every Tourist Needs to Know

Taiwan Taipei MRT station rules no food or drink sign for tourists

Planning your dream escape to the "Heart of Asia"? From the neon-lit streets of Taipei to the misty peaks of Alishan, Taiwan is legendary for being safe, clean, and incredibly welcoming.

But here’s the thing: Taiwan takes its rules seriously. What might be a "minor oopsie" in Europe or US and even other Asian Countries could land you a hefty fine in Taipei. To keep your holiday stress-free (and your wallet full), here are the most common laws tourists accidentally break—and how to stay on the sunny side of the law! 

1. The "Golden Rule" of the MRT: No Snacking!
Taipei’s MRT is one of the cleanest metro systems in the world, and they keep it that way with strict enforcement. The moment you cross that yellow line into the paid area, your snacks must stay in your bag.  

•The Trap: This includes chewing gum, water, and even betel nuts.

•The Law: Mass Rapid Transit Act, Article 50.

•Penalty: NT1,500 – NT7,500 (€45 – €220 approx).

Pro Tip: Finish your espresso or bubble tea before you tap your EasyCard. Even a quick sip of water can technically get you flagged!

2. No "Creative" Street Crossing (Jaywalking)
In many cities, if the road is empty, you cross. In Taiwan? Not so fast. Traffic police and "tech-policing" cameras are everywhere.

•The Trap: Crossing the street outside of a designated zebra crossing or ignoring a red "Don’t Walk" man.

•The Law: Act Governing Road Traffic Violations, Article 78.

•Penalty: NT$500 fine (€15 approx) and a potential lecture on road safety

Pro Tip: Always wait for the green light, even if the street looks deserted. It’s safer and cheaper!

3. Beware of "Freelance" Tours on Social Media
Found a "hidden gem" tour on Instagram or a local "friend" offering a paid guided hike? Be careful. Taiwan requires all tour guides and operators to be strictly licensed.

•The Trap: Joining an unlicensed tour or acting as a paid guide for others without a permit.

•The Law: Act for the Development of Tourism, Article 59.

•Penalty: A massive NT30,000 to NT1.5 Million (€900 – €44,000+).

Pro Tip: Only book through reputable platforms (like KKDAY or GetYourGuide) or licensed travel agencies. If a "guide" asks you to pretend you're just "friends" if the police ask—run!

Taiwan is a paradise for travelers who love culture, food, and safety. By respecting these local laws, you’re not just avoiding fines—you’re showing respect to the beautiful culture that makes Taiwan so special.

Ready to explore? Make sure you’ve filled out your Online Arrival Card (TWAC) within 72 hours of landing to breeze through immigration!

Are you heading to Taiwan soon? Which of these laws surprised you the most? 

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

GetYourGuide: Don't just visit your destination — experience it. Book your activities with GetYourGuide!

The Ultimate 8-Day Taiwan Itinerary: From Taipei Neons to Alishan Clouds

Planning a trip to Taiwan often feels like a tug-of-war between city sightseeing and mountain escapes. How do you fit the hot springs of Jiaoxi, the ancient forests of Taipingshan, and the legendary Alishan sunrise into one week without burning out?

After navigating the logistics from Taipei to the southern peaks, we’ve mapped out the perfect 8-day circuit. This guide covers the exact transit routes and the secret to timing your Alishan hike perfectly. Whether you’re flying in from Singapore or hopping over from Hong Kong, here is how to see the best of Taiwan.

Detailed 8-day Taiwan travel itinerary table covering Taipei, Jiaoxi, and Alishan

Final Thoughts: Is Taiwan on Your Bucket List?

Taiwan is one of those rare destinations where the reality actually lives up to the postcard. From the hot springs in Jiaoxi to the bone-chilling (but beautiful) 4:00 AM wake-up call in Alishan, every mile of this trip offers something unique.

Before you pack your bags:

• The Pro Tip: Book your Puyuma and Alishan forest train tickets at least 2 weeks in advance—they will sell out.

• The Foodie Edit: Don't skip the savory soy milk breakfast on your last day in Taipei; it’s the ultimate comfort food before a long flight.

I want to hear from you! Are you a "city explorer" who lives for Taipei’s night markets, or a "nature seeker" heading straight for the mountains? Drop a comment below or tag me in your Taiwan travel photos!

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

GetYourGuide: Don't just visit your destination — experience it. Book your activities with GetYourGuide!

Taiwan Train Guide: How to Ride the MRT, TRA, and Bullet Train Like a Local

ABBEY: I admit that the first time I saw the Taiwan railway network map, I was completely intimidated. Like most train maps, it looked like a plate of spaghetti. Lines everywhere, different colors, unfamiliar names. I was so confused that I closed my laptop and decided to deal with it another day. Haha.

But once I took the time to understand how Taiwan’s train system works, it became one of the easiest and most efficient ways to travel around the country. If you are planning a Taiwan trip and feeling overwhelmed by MRT, TRA, and HSR, here is how I understood it and how we managed to navigate everything smoothly.

Taiwan’s train system is mainly divided into three types: MRT, TRA, and High Speed Rail (HSR). The MRT is the metro system within cities like Taipei. It is clean, efficient, and tourist-friendly. For MRT rides, we used an EasyCard, which you can tap in and out of stations. It can be topped up at machines inside the station, but do note that top-ups are cash only. The EasyCard is very convenient and can also be used on buses and even in convenience stores.

For intercity travel, we used both TRA and HSR. The TRA, or Taiwan Railways Administration, operates regular and limited express trains that connect different cities and towns across the island. We booked our limited express TRA tickets online in advance. Once we arrived at Taipei Main Station, we exchanged our online booking for physical tickets at the ticket booth. Booking online allowed us to reserve seats, which gave us peace of mind knowing we had guaranteed seats as long as we arrived at the station on time.

The Taiwan High Speed Rail, or HSR, is perfect for longer distances along the west coast. It significantly reduces travel time between major cities like Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. We also booked our HSR tickets online and collected the physical tickets at the station. If you want a fast, comfortable, and efficient way to travel between cities, HSR is the way to go.

Getting to and from Taoyuan International Airport was also very easy. We took the Airport Express Train, which takes around 40 minutes to reach Taipei Main Station. After a red-eye flight, this was a convenient and stress-free option.

One of the highlights of our trip was taking scenic train rides. We rode the scenic train from Alishan to Chiayi, and it was truly memorable. The views of the mountains and forests made the journey just as beautiful as the destination. Here is a useful tip: do not rely solely on the official Alishan Forest Railway website when booking tickets because it often shows as fully booked. Try searching on third-party platforms like Alishan Easy Go, which may offer advance tickets. While in Alishan, you can also ride the iconic cypress wooden train, but it operates only on Wednesdays, so plan accordingly.

We also experienced the Bong Bong Train at Taipingshan. This train was previously used to transport wood, and today it serves as a short heritage ride through the forest. It is a quick ride but offers a charming glimpse into Taiwan’s logging history.

Once you secure your tickets, the rest is simple. Arrive at the station early, check your platform, secure your luggage, find your seat, and enjoy the view. Taiwan’s train system may look confusing at first, but once you understand the difference between MRT, TRA, and HSR, it becomes one of the most efficient ways to explore the island.

If you are planning to travel around Taiwan by train, do not let the railway map scare you. With a little research and the help of online booking, navigating Taiwan’s trains can be smooth, convenient, and even one of the most enjoyable parts of your trip.

Taiwan High Speed Rail bullet train at the platform with spacious seating.

WILL: When visiting a new country, figuring out the transportation system can either make your trip smooth… or slightly chaotic. During our recent trip to Taiwan, we realized that although the trains are incredibly efficient, there are actually three different train systems, and each one serves a different purpose.

Once you understand how they work, traveling around Taiwan becomes super easy and enjoyable. Yayyy!! Here’s a simple guide to help you get around.

1. The Taipei MRT (Subway/Metro)

If you’re staying in Taipei, the MRT will be your best friend. It’s the easiest way to hit all the famous spots like Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, and those legendary night markets.

• The Cleanliness is Real: It is one of the cleanest systems in the world. Important: No eating, drinking, or even chewing gum is allowed once you pass the gates. The locals are very strict about this!

• The "Priority Seat" Culture: You’ll see dark blue seats reserved for those who need them. Even in a packed train, Americans are often surprised to see these seats left empty out of respect. It's such a beautiful part of the culture!

• How to Pay: Grab an EasyCard at any station or 7-Eleven. It’s a "tap-and-go" card you can also use for snacks and buses. Super easy!

Pro-Tip for Taipei Main Station: This place is a massive underground city. We got lost twice! 😅 If you feel like you're walking in circles, just follow signs for "Street Level" to reset your GPS.

2. Taiwan Railway (TRA / TRC) – Regional & Scenic

The TRA (now called TRC) is the traditional rail that loops around the entire island. We took this from Taipei to Jiaoxi and then to Nangang.

• The Experience: It’s slower than the bullet train but way more scenic.

• The Famous Bento Boxes: Unlike the MRT, you can eat here! You have to try a Railway Bento. It’s a classic Taiwanese experience—usually a pork chop, rice, and veggies in a cute box. Many stations have "vending machines" for drinks on the platform, too.

• Booking: For express trains (like the Puyuma), book your seats online in advance! They sell out fast, especially on weekends.

3. High-Speed Rail (HSR) – The "Bullet Train"

If you’re heading from Taipei down to Chiayi or Kaohsiung, the HSR is the way to go. It’s basically Taiwan’s version of the Japanese Shinkansen.

• Speed: Taipei to Chiayi takes about 90 minutes. It's a total game-changer!

• Standard vs. Business: We skipped Business Class because Standard Class is amazing. The legroom is huge—you can put a large suitcase in front of your feet and still have room to wiggle your toes. (Wink-wink!)

• Vibe: Even if the trains look a little "classic" on the outside, they are squeaky clean and whisper-quiet inside.

4. Alishan Forest Railway – The Bucket List Ride

This is widely considered the most beautiful train ride in Taiwan, but it is the hardest ticket to get. Luckily, Abbey is a booking wizard and handled it for us! 🤗

Is it worth the hype? YES. It makes you feel so small as you wind through giant ancient trees and misty mountain crevasses. You get to see the history of the logging industry and how they used to transport these massive trees.

Travel Hack: Take the train instead of the bus! The mountain roads to Alishan are super "zigzag," and the train is much better if you're prone to motion sickness.

🤫 A Quick Note on "Train Etiquette"

Taiwanese trains are quiet. You’ll notice people don't take phone calls or play videos out loud. It makes the ride so peaceful! Just bring your headphones and enjoy the view.

Taiwan’s trains aren't just a way to get around; they are part of the adventure. Whether you're grabbing a bento on the TRA or flying down the coast on the HSR, you’re going to love it.

***

Metro Taipei 

(W) https://english.metro.taipei/Default.aspx

Taiwan Regional Railway

(W) https://tip.railway.gov.tw/tra-tip-web/tip?lang=EN_US

Taiwan Highspeed Railway

(W) https://en.thsrc.com.tw/

Alishan Forest Railway

(W) https://afrch.forest.gov.tw/EN

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

GetYourGuide: Don't just visit your destination — experience it. Book your activities with GetYourGuide!