Multi-day Trips Taichung City

Explore Beyond the City: Multi-Day Trips from Taichung

Taichung is a vibrant city with plenty to offer, but its central location also makes it an ideal base for exploring other captivating destinations in Taiwan. Here are some multi-day trip ideas starting from Taichung:

1. Sun Moon Lake & Central Mountain Range (2-3 Days)

  • Highlights: Taiwan’s largest lake, stunning mountain scenery, indigenous culture, hiking trails, hot springs

  • Getting there: Direct buses from Taichung to Sun Moon Lake (approx. 2 hours)

  • Tips:

    • Take a boat tour on the lake for breathtaking views.
    • Hike up Ci’en Pagoda for panoramic vistas.
    • Visit the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village for cultural insights.
    • Consider staying in a lakeside village or explore nearby hot springs resorts like Lalu Sun Moon Lake.

2. Alishan National Scenic Area (2 Days)

  • Highlights: Famous sunrise views, tea plantations, scenic railway, ancient forests, hiking trails

  • Getting there: Take the TRA train to Chiayi then transfer to the Alishan Forest Railway (approx. 3-4 hours)

  • Tips:

    • Book your sunrise viewing tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.
    • Explore the tea plantations and sample locally grown teas.
    • Hike through the forest trails and admire the towering cypress trees.
    • Stay overnight at a mountain lodge for an immersive experience.

3. Taroko Gorge National Park (3 Days)

  • Highlights: Majestic marble cliffs, turquoise river waters, hiking trails, temples, natural hot springs

  • Getting there: Take the TRA train to Hualien then transfer to a bus (approx. 4-5 hours)

  • Tips:

    • Hike the Swallow Grotto trail for stunning cliff views.
    • Visit the Eternal Spring Shrine, a picturesque temple built into a cliffside.
    • Explore the Qingshui Cliffs and marvel at the rugged coastline.

4. Coastal Exploration (2-3 Days)

  • Highlights: Beaches, surfing, seafood, historic sites, night markets

  • Getting there: Take a bus south to Tainan or Kaohsiung (approx. 1.5-2 hours)

  • Tips:

    • Visit Anping Fort in Tainan, a historical Dutch trading post.
    • Relax on the beaches of Kenting National Park.
    • Explore the bustling night markets for delicious local cuisine.

General Tips for Multi-Day Trips from Taichung:

  • Transportation: Taiwan has an efficient public transportation system with buses and trains connecting major cities. Consider purchasing an EasyCard for convenient travel.
  • Accommodation: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Weather: Check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly.
  • Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Mandarin phrases will enhance your experience.
  • Currency: The currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). ATMs are widely available.

Enjoy exploring the diverse beauty of Taiwan!