We at Life of Taiwan are constantly updating, revising, and expanding the information and images we present on the 200-plus pages of our website. Some of these additions are made to save ourselves from answering the same questions again and again and to take some of the pressure off our hardworking itinerary-planning team. And from time to time we’ve no choice but to modify our content because the situation on the ground has changed, for instance in the wake of the April 3, 2024 earthquake that caused the closure of much of Taroko National Park and prompted many sightseers to change their travel plans. But often we just insert extra details and photos because we find them fascinating — and we reckon they’re sure to interest the kind of curious and erudite travellers we attract.
Because a significant number of our esteemed clients don’t have enough time to venture to the island’s south or east, or they expect business or family commitments to keep them in and around Greater Taipei, we recently created in-depth standalone introductions for the following destinations:
Beitou and Xinbeitou: Synonymous with a hot-spring culture that was imported from Japan but which over time has become distinctly Taiwanese, this district in the north of Taiwan’s capital offers refinement and relaxation on the edge of Yangmingshan National Park.
Jiaoxi: This hot springs resort in Yilan County, which gets packed with local and foreign soak enthusiasts during wintertime, can be an excellent base for exploring the northeast.
Jiufen: Together with the neighboring mini-town of Jinguashi, Jiufen was once a booming region where miners dug for gold and other minerals. Winding alleyways and striking coastal scenery combined with industrial heritage make it one of the island’s most popular destinations.
Keelung: For a growing number of cruise-ship passengers, Keelung is their first glimpse of Taiwan. And for history buffs and for families with young children Keelung’s Heping Island deserves a few hours.
Pingxi and Shifen: Served by a delightful branch railway (but also easy to access by bus or, if you’d prefer to explore the area as part of a Life of Taiwan private guided tour, by car), these communities owe their existence to nearby coal deposits. Since extraction ceased, tourism has thrown the area an economic lifeline — and deservedly, you’ll agree if you come here. You can have a lot of fun here.
Tamsui: Formerly one of Taiwan’s key ports, this rivermouth town contains a great deal of 19th-century history.
Yehliu and the North Coast: Best avoided at weekends and during other peak periods but a true delight at other times, the stunning rock forms within Yehliu Geopark are sure to give you some of the best photographs of your trip.
If you’d rather steer clear of the well-beaten path, we can suggest dozens of alternatives places to see. Taiwan offers a stupendous density of cultural, historic, and natural attractions. Whether you’ve a passion for museums or a deep interest in indigenous cultures, Life of Taiwan’s expert tour planners can map out a schedule that’ll make the most of your time and leave you with memories you’ll treasure. Contact us today!