Classic Taiwan 9 Days Tour

After enjoying breakfast today, we will set off to witness the world-renowned natural wonder, the breathtaking Taroko Gorge, where Mother Nature's masterpieces unfold. Established in 1986, Taroko National Park spans across Hualien, Nantou, and Taichung. The park features towering peaks and almost vertical gorges formed by the long-term erosion of marble by the Liwu River, combined with the continuous uplifting of the earth's crust. The park's elevation difference from Qingshui to Nanhu peaks reaches 3,742 meters, creating a diverse and complex vegetation landscape and providing a habitat for various wildlife.

*Due to geological conditions, Taroko National Park is prone to rockfalls. Please do not venture alone or stay in rockfall areas, and follow the safety instructions given by the tour guide.

East-West Cross-Island Highway Arch(東西橫貫公路牌樓)

As a symbol of Taiwan's first transversal road, the Central Cross-Island Highway, the government built an arch inscribed with "東西橫貫公路" (East-West Cross-Island Highway) - hence it is also known as the Taroko Central Cross-Island Highway Arch. This road is commonly referred to as the "Central Cross-Island Highway."

Changchun Shrine(長春祠)

From here, you can enjoy a distant view of the Changchun Waterfall and pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway. This serene shrine stands amidst the lush mountain valleys, with cascading waterfalls creating a harmonious and picturesque scene.

Please be cautious of the unstable terrain in this area, as rockfalls or collapses may occur. Pay attention to the surroundings during the visit, and do not attempt to enter if there is any sign of falling rocks.

*The path from Changchun Shrine to the Taroko Tower involves steep stairs made of cement, which can become slippery when wet. Please be mindful of your steps.

*For those who are not feeling well or have heart conditions, please carefully consider walking on the steep sections of the trail.

Jiuqudong (Tunnel of Nine Turns 九曲洞)

This is one of the most magnificent sections of Taroko Gorge, with a 700-meter-long trail that requires retracing your steps. The trail runs closely along the deep mountain valley, offering a breathtaking view of the Liwu River's rushing waters below. The towering cliffs on both sides and the dramatic landscape leave visitors in awe. In addition to the gorge itself, pay attention to the fascinating geological features on the marble walls, such as faults, joints, and folds, as well as the resilient rock-dwelling plants. The Jiuqudong is a popular recreational path suitable for the general public and serves as an outdoor geological classroom.

Puloh Wan Management Station(部落灣管理站)

Puloh Wan Terrace is a large, two-tiered river terrace downstream of the Liwu River. In the Taroko language, Taroko means "the place of tracing hunting." This area used to be a settlement of the Taroko tribe. Today, the Taroko National Park Headquarters has established a management station here, which incorporates indigenous cultural elements into the park. The station provides tourist information, multimedia presentations, and consultation services. On the left side of the station, you'll find the Taroko Tribe Craft Exhibition Hall, showcasing exquisite works of art made by the Taroko people, such as weaving and rattan crafts. The second floor of the exhibition hall houses a souvenir shop. For lunch, we have arranged an authentic mountain delicacy meal at the Tianxiang Rest Area. In addition to the usual stir-fried noodles and rice commonly found on flatlands, you can savor highland delicacies like bamboo shoots soup or locally made millet wine sausages, as well as fresh mountain vegetables unique to the highland region.

Special Reminders:

Due to the geological landscape and weather conditions, specific areas within the Taroko National Park may occasionally be closed for visitation due to rockfalls or other factors. In such cases, alternative arrangements will be made based on the day's situation. Thank you for your understanding.

Meals： Breakfast   

Accommodation： Hualien Standard Hotel

Baci Scenic Lookout(芭崎瞭望台)

Located along the winding Provincial Highway No. 11, Baci Lookout is the most stunning "turning point" on this road. As you drive past the hairpin bends, the scenery changes from lush green forests on both sides to a vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, with the majestic coastal mountains standing tall. When you step into this lookout point and gaze eastward, the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean are enough to make you forget the fatigue of the journey. To the south, you can also overlook the prominent Dashibi Mountain on the southern side of Jiqi Bay.

Qinbuzi Ancient Sea Road (Skywalk 親不知子天空步道)

Offering a 180-degree panoramic view of the boundless sea, this mini skywalk called "Qinbuzi Ancient Sea Road" is built along the cliff face of the coastal mountains. In the past, this path was used by the people of the Xinshe and Jiqi tribes for communication and travel. A section of the walk requires progressing along this cliff. The approximately 20-meter-long transparent walkway, elevated about 40 meters above sea level, is constructed using steel structures and reinforced glass.

*The skywalk is closed every Wednesday. There is a section of the walkway made of transparent glass. If you have a fear of heights, heart conditions, high blood pressure, or if you are pregnant, please consider whether to proceed. You can always turn back to the starting point along the way.

Shitiping(石梯坪)

possesses a unique rocky shoreline sculpted by wind and seawater, creating a spectacular landscape. The intertidal zone is abundant in natural resources, offering opportunities to observe various marine life, such as crabs, starfish, sea cucumbers, hermit crabs, and colorful schools of fish. It is a place that awaits keen-eyed observers to explore its mysteries. Some visitors also choose to camp at the camping area above the sea erosion platform at Shitiping. By doing so, they can wake up to the beautiful morning sun breaking through the clouds, illuminating the sea surface with golden brilliance. It's a magical experience to witness the dawn from the comfort of their tents, embracing the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Pisirian(比西里岸部落)

Pisirian, also known as "Pisirian Tribal Village," is a coastal community near Sanxiantai in Taitung. Concerned about the continuous population loss among young people in the village, the Sanxian Community Development Association, along with local residents and artists, have come together to revitalize the community. Now, besides having a beautiful cultural activity center, the village is filled with wooden sheep sculptures and hosts the "Pawpaw drum band" formed by the village children, which performs regularly at the Pisirian Cultural Center. In 2013, collaborating with artist Jimmy Liao, the village painted the silhouette of the little girl from the book "One More Day With You" on various spots around the village, allowing visitors to explore and further understand the simplicity and tranquility of the village through the murals.

Notes:

When entering the residential area of the village, please lower your voice and avoid disturbing the residents' daily lives. Respect privacy and refrain from taking photos of private buildings, portraits, or artistic works without consent.

Help maintain a clean environment and avoid littering. Please appreciate and care for the village's art installations.

The village is close to the seaside, so please pay attention to the weather and ensure your safety.

Jialulan Park(加路蘭海岸)

Jialulan, also known as "Kararuan" in Amis language, means "the place to wash hair." It was named for the nearby stream's rich mineral content that leaves hair naturally lustrous after washing. Originally an abandoned soil storage site during the construction of the Chih-hang Air Base, Jialulan Recreation Area has been renovated multiple times using ecological methods by the East Coast National Scenic Area Administration. It now includes additional facilities such as a parking lot, viewing platforms, and art installations, transforming the former wasteland into a charming recreational area and rest stop.

Tonight, we will arrive in Taitung, a place that offers high mountains, deep valleys, streams, and the ocean, a limitless natural classroom. Taitung's beauty lies in the harmonious blend of its mountains and seas, as well as its preservation of the cultures and festival traditions of the Amis, Puyuma, Rukai, Bunun, Paiwan, and Tao tribes, showcasing the region's rich and diverse cultural atmosphere.

Meals： Breakfast   Lunch  

Accommodation： Taitung Standard Hotel

As you travel along Route 9, entering the four townships of Nanhuai in the Southern Cross-Island Highway, you'll be greeted by the vast and boundless sea and the deep blue sky, connecting as one on the far horizon. One of the famous attractions on the Southern Cross-Island Highway is the "South Link Highway," where the famous spot "Nanhui Haitian Yixian南迴海天一線" offers a magnificent view. Due to the heavy traffic on this stretch of the road, parking is not allowed on both sides. Drivers will slow down to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of their vehicles.

TRA Taimali Railroad Crossing(太麻里(櫻木)平交道)

Located near Taimali Railway Station, is an Instagram hotspot and a popular check-in location for social media enthusiasts. With its beautiful and tranquil scenery of blue sky, blue sea, and the railroad crossing, this spot is considered the most stunning level crossing landscape in Eastern Taiwan. It is also well-known for resembling a classic scene from the comic "Slam Dunk." Don't forget to snap a selfie here and share it with your friends!

The Dawu Coastal Park or 9420 Coastal Park(大武9420濱海公園)

(9420, which sounds like "I Love You" in Mandarin) is situated at the 420th-kilometer mark along Route 9. The park features a wide grassland area and a row of palm trees along the coastline. Despite harsh weather conditions such as scorching sunlight, strong winds, and heavy rain, the palm trees remain upright and green, symbolizing that true love can withstand challenges. Take a photo with your loved one here, briefly rest, and enjoy the breathtaking view of the vast Pacific Ocean and the towering Central Mountain Range, feeling embraced by the lush green mountains and sea.

South Link Highway(南迴公路)

The "South Link Highway" project, which took 15 years to complete, is located at the southern end of Route 9. The project was finished at the end of 2019, shortening the travel time between Taitung's Xianglan(台東香蘭) and Pingtung's Caopu(屏東草埔) by 30 minutes, making the journey between East and South Pingtung much more convenient. The "South Link Highway" is renowned as "Taiwan's Most Beautiful Road."

Kaohsiung(高雄)

Welcome to Kaohsiung, the largest city in Southern Taiwan. Benefiting from a maritime climate, it enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year, providing a pleasant and unique "Maritime Capital" experience. In recent years, Kaohsiung has vigorously promoted its tourism industry, becoming one of the most beautiful cities in Taiwan.

Kaohsiung Music Center(高雄流行音樂中心)

Great Harbor Bridge is located at the heart of Kaohsiung's Asia New Bay Area. It was designed by a Spanish architectural team in collaboration with a Taiwanese team, incorporating ocean elements to create unique building structures. It serves as the core venue for pop music performances in Southern Taiwan and is also an international-level music and cultural landmark, highlighting pop music as its centerpiece while inheriting maritime culture and creating a new music and leisure base.

Great Harbor Bridge(高雄港大港橋)

Great Harbor Bridge is situated at Dayi Road in the Yancheng District, under the third shipyard of Kaohsiung Port. It is Asia's longest cross-harbor swing bridge, capable of completing a horizontal rotation in just three minutes. Designed and constructed independently by the Taiwan International Ports Corporation, the project also includes the surrounding waterfront protection facilities, wharf reinforcement, and landscape engineering. Located near the North End of the Asia New Bay Area, close to the Kaohsiung Light Rail Dayi Pier-2 Station, the bridge serves as an essential puzzle piece in the northern waterfront area, connecting the Pier-2 Art Center and Kaohsiung Port Warehouse Cluster, shaping Kaohsiung's waterfront tourism corridor.

Meals： Breakfast   

Accommodation： Kaohsiung Standard Hotel

From the east coast, we arrived at Kaohsiung, the largest city on Taiwan's west side. After breakfast, we'll start today's itinerary.

Lianchihtan(蓮池潭)

formerly known as Lianhua Lake, is located in Zuoying District, Kaohsiung. It is adjacent to Guishan(龜山) in the south and connects to Banpingshan半屏山) in the north. The lake covers an area of approximately 42 hectares and is sourced from the Gaoping River(高屏溪). Lianchihtan is surrounded by lotus flowers, making it one of the "Eight Scenic Views of Fengshan" during the Qing Dynasty, known as "Pan Water with Lotus Fragrance." The unique shape of Banpingshan and the reflection of the Longhu Tower(龍虎塔) in the water have earned it the name "Sunset Glow at Lian Lake." At night, Lianchihtan is covered in mist, creating an indescribable sense of mystery. The lake is dotted with pavilions and towers, and willow trees line the banks, creating a beautiful landscape. From south to north, there are various attractions around the lake, such as the Old City(舊城), Longhu Tower(龍虎塔), Wuli Pavilion(五里亭), Chunqiu Pavilion(春秋閣), Qiming Hall(啟明堂), and Confucius Temple(孔廟), attracting visitors from all over, especially on weekends.

Tianliao Moon World(田寮月世界)

mainly consists of blue-grey rock formations composed of mudstone, sandstone, and shale, as well as alkaline clay that inhibits plant growth. Only thorny bamboo can survive in this environment. Some parts of Tianliao Moon World, like Grass Mountain Moon World, have soft geological formations eroded by streams, resulting in the erosion of gullies and barren ridges on the slopes. The surface of Moon World typically appears greyish-white and desolate, with a layer of salt powder on the mudstone that reflects moonlight at night, hence the name "Moon World."

Chiayi(嘉義)

the starting point of the Alishan Forest Railway, thrived in the past due to forestry development. As a result of its early history, the city retains many historical sites, forming important tourism resources. Regarding local specialties, Chiayi is known for turkey rice, square biscuits, Alishan Yokan, snowflake cake, small mantou (steamed buns), sweet potatoes, and pineapple cakes. Regarding cultural activities, the painting was famous during the Japanese colonial period, earning the title "City of Paintings," with notable figures such as Chen Cheng-po(陳澄波). In recent years, the International Band Festival and Wake up Music Festival have become prominent events. Chiayi City is the first and currently the only city in Taiwan to have fully electrified and low-floor buses in its public transportation system.

Meals： Breakfast   

Accommodation： Chiayi Hotel

The Alishan National Forest Recreation Area(阿里山森林遊樂園區)

boasts five unique attractions: the Forest Railway, Divine Trees, Sea of Clouds, Sunrise, and Cherry Blossoms. It is Taiwan's most renowned and beloved forest recreation area, a shimmering emerald gem on the Alishan mountain range radiating with dazzling brilliance. Depending on individual physical strength and preferences, you can choose a different route.

Route A: Zhaoping Train Station, Sisters Pond, Four Sisters, Happiness from Golden Pig, Eternal Love, Mulan Garden, Shouzheng Temple

Route B: Shouzheng Temple, Three Generations Tree, Alishan Museum, Xiang-lin Elementary School, Ci-yun Temple, Alishan Sacred Tree

Route C: Zhaoping Train Station, Skywalk, Alishan Ecology Exhibition Hall, Shuishan Trail

Sun Moon Lake(日月潭)

Sun Moon Lake is a beautiful mountain lake and the largest freshwater lake in Taiwan, situated at an elevation of 748 meters and covering an area of 116 square kilometers. The beauty of Sun Moon Lake is a harmonious blend of mountains and water, like a picturesque landscape painting. The misty water and distinct layers of changing mountain scenery create a natural and poetic ambiance, earning it a reputation as one of Taiwan's Eight Scenic Spots. The Sun Moon Lake Round-the-Lake Road was selected by CNN's lifestyle travel website CNNGO as one of the world's top ten most beautiful bike paths. If you have enough time, you can also arrange to experience the approximately 400-meter-long "water biking trail" and enjoy cycling alongside the lake or even try a boat ride on the water.

Meals： Breakfast   Lunch  

Accommodation： Sun Moon Lake Standard Hotel

Ci En Pagoda(慈恩塔)

Completed in 1971, the "Ci En Pagoda" is a memorial to former President Chiang Kai-shek's mother. Known for her kindness, gratitude, and compassion, it was named "Ci En," which means "kindness and grace." Perched at an elevation of 954 meters on the mountaintop, the Ci En Pagoda stands tall at 46 meters, and its tip reaches 1000 meters exactly, facing south with precise orientation. This suggests that Chiang Kai-shek paid great attention to feng shui and even had some superstitions. The Ci En Pagoda not only serves as a prominent landmark of Sun Moon Lake but also offers the best vantage point to admire the stunning views. During sunset, the scenery becomes particularly enchanting. Only from this highest point of Sun Moon Lake can one truly understand why it was named "Sun Moon Lake." The panoramic view from the top allows visitors to experience a 360-degree surround of magnificent beauty. Additionally, you can personally ring the bell to wish for blessings for your loved ones, hoping that the resonating sound will bring abundant hope and lasting grace.

Wenwu Temple(文武廟)

During the Japanese colonial period, there were originally two temples by Sun Moon Lake, including the Longfeng Temple in Shuishe Village and the Yihua Hall in the former Bukji Village (now Riyuetan Village). Due to the construction of a hydroelectric power project by the Japanese, the water level of Sun Moon Lake rose, and both temples had to be relocated. The Taiwan Power Company acquired the assets of the temples, and with the funds received, they selected a new site and merged the two temples to construct a new one. In 1934, the Wenwu Temple was reconstructed at Songbolun on the northern bank of Sun Moon Lake and completed in 1938. In 1969, the Wenwu Temple underwent another reconstruction to become a magnificent and grand Chinese-style architecture of imposing scale. The temple consists of three main halls: the second floor of the front hall is dedicated to the Water and Cloud Palace, which houses the ancestral gods and the God of Culture; the middle hall is the Martial Saint Temple, which enshrines the God of War and the God of Martial Valor; the rear hall is the Great Accomplishment Hall, which worships Confucius and other deities, where Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism coexist. The Great Accomplishment Hall of Wenwu Temple is the only Confucian temple in Taiwan that opens its central door. According to the temple, it was done for the convenience of tourists since Sun Moon Lake attracts many visitors. However, the bronze statues of Confucius and his two disciples, Mencius and Zisi, within the hall are the only sacred statues of Confucius in any Confucian temple in Taiwan. These three statues were originally enshrined in China and later made their way to the Kozanji Temple in Japan during the Boxer Rebellion at the end of the Qing Dynasty. After being reproduced, they were moved to Wenwu Temple. As for the statues of Yan Hui and Zeng Shen, they were later funded by their descendants and were placed beside Confucius, symbolizing their loyalty.

Nine Frogs Stacking Sculpture(九蛙疊像)

The Nine Frogs Stacking Sculpture is a unique sight at Sun Moon Lake, created by artist Shen Zhengying(沈政瑩). Unlike ordinary sculptures placed on the ground, this artwork is set in the lake water. The sculpture features nine frogs, with the largest at the bottom and the smallest at the top, arranged in a stack. Due to the fluctuating water levels of Sun Moon Lake, which are used for hydroelectric power generation, the frogs are sometimes exposed and other times submerged, creating a novel and fascinating experience for visitors. Some of the frogs have special shapes, making them particularly sought-after photo spots. The changing water levels result in different numbers of exposed frogs, offering a fresh experience with each visit.

Green Green Grassland (Qing Qing Grassland) at Cingjing Farm(清境農場-青青草原)

Cingjing Farm covers an area of 378 hectares and sits at an elevation between 1,700 and 2,100 meters. Apart from abundant harvests of peaches, apples, kiwifruit, and other fruits, it also boasts unique natural landscapes, offering different sceneries throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy blooming flowers in spring, escape the summer heat, admire autumn maple leaves, and appreciate snowy vistas in winter. With vast grasslands surrounded by mountains and flocks of sheep, the farm exudes a distinct New Zealand vibe. The park features numerous European-style buildings and is often enshrouded in drifting mist, adding to its exotic ambiance.

Meals： Breakfast   Dinner

Accommodation： Cingjing B&B

Feeling18(18度C巧克力工房)

Feeling18 Chocolate Factory originated from a father's love and commitment to his son, aiming to spread love and emotions worldwide through instantly melting chocolates. It started its journey online in 2006. The name "Feeling18" comes from the ideal temperature of 18 degrees Celsius, which perfectly showcases the flavor and quality of the chocolates, hence the name. In 2007, a physical store was opened in Puli. In 2009, they introduced Gelato18, an Italian-style handcrafted ice cream made with natural low-fat and low-sugar ingredients, offering delicious ice cream using only fresh fruits. The same year, they established "Wooden Wheel Eighteen," a cake shop that introduced Japanese techniques, combining Japanese flour with Taiwanese longan honey and patiently baking an impressive eighteen-layer wooden wheel cake.

Puli Brewery(埔里酒廠)

Located in Nantou County, the "Taiwan Tobacco and Liquor Corporation - Puli Brewery" has successfully developed various distinctive alcoholic products, such as Shaoxing rice cakes(紹興米糕), Shaoxing popsicles(紹興冰棒), and Shaoxing braised delicacies(紹興滷味), all available for viewing and purchase in the product sales area on the first floor of the brewery. The second floor showcases the brewery's history and displays a collection of alcoholic artifacts. Visitors can also enjoy delicious food outdoors. The brewery not only enriches travelers' knowledge but also provides a delightful place for recreation and indulgence in tasty food, making it an excellent destination for family outings.

Shen Ji New Village(審計新村)

Taichung Shen Ji New Village (Shen Ji 368 Creative Village) is a cultural and creative industry base that transformed long-abandoned government dormitories into a vibrant market filled with creative products, handcrafted coffee, unique cuisine, and various trendy items. It has become a must-visit spot for trendy and artistic photography during one-day trips to Taichung.

National Taichung Theater(台中國家歌劇院)

Located in Taichung's West District, the National Taichung Theater is designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito(伊東豊雄). Inspired by the concept of a "cave of singing voices," the theater features curved walls, openings, and tube-like structures, creating a new type of architecture without any pillars or 90-degree walls. The theater houses three internationally renowned professional performance venues: the Grand Theater, the Medium Theater, and the Small Theater, which cater to different types of performances. There is also a multi-functional space called "Corner Salon" for educational promotion, lectures, and other activities. The outdoor theater lawn and rooftop garden provide visitors with great relaxing places. The National Taichung Theater is a work of art, and its various theaters and rooftop garden offer unique characteristics, making it a perfect destination for a comprehensive artistic feast.

Fengjia Night Market(逢甲夜市)

also known as Fengjia Wen Hua Night Market(逢甲文華夜市) stretches from Fengjia University's side gate to Fuxing Road in Taichung. It mainly attracts young people in their twenties and thirties due to its proximity to the university and the city center. Unlike other night markets in Taichung, Fengjia Wen Hua Night Market is not only renowned for its food but also offers various types of shops that operate for longer hours. In recent years, the local government has redesigned the commercial district with improved road surfaces, street sceneries, and planned parking spaces to address parking issues. The revamped Fengjia Wen Hua Night Market has attracted more consumers, and the district is expanding, becoming one of the top choices for tourists and being considered one of the "Top Ten Tourist Attractions in Taichung" by the public.

Meals： Breakfast   

Accommodation： Taichung Standard Hotel

Miyahara Eye Hospital in Taichung(宮原眼科)

Located near Taichung Train Station along the Green River, this building made of red bricks is the former site of Miyahara Eye Hospital, which was purchased by the "Sunrise" cake team, famous for its pineapple cakes. The external red brick walls and old entrance archway of the eye hospital have been completely preserved, creating a nostalgic atmosphere with a red-brick wooden ceiling arcade. As you enter the shop, you'll find decor reminiscent of a vintage high-ceiling library, creating a magical space that blends old and new eras. In the center of the shop, there's an unusable ancient well, creatively transformed into a modern round glass donation box, showcasing the ingenuity of the design.

Taipei 101(台北101)

Taipei 101 is a supertall skyscraper in Taipei City's Xinyi District, Taiwan. It stands at a height of 509.2 meters with 101 above-ground floors and 5 underground levels. It was Taiwan's tallest building and the world's tallest from December 1, 2004, to January 7, 2010, until the Burj Khalifa surpassed it. As of 2023, it is the 11th tallest building in the world. Taipei 101 features a postmodern architectural style, incorporating modern structural elements like industrial materials while evoking traditional Asian aesthetics. The tower houses offices, restaurants, shops, an observation deck, and an outdoor viewing platform for public use. Notably, it boasts the world's second-largest and only open-to-the-public giant-tuned mass damper. Moreover, the building has high-speed elevators reaching up to 60 km/h. Taipei 101 received LEED EBOM Platinum certification in 2011, 2016, and 2021, making it the tallest and largest green building in the world.

Meals： Breakfast   

Accommodation： None