Best Places in Taiwan for Solo Female Travel
1, Taipei
Located in the Northern part of Taiwan, Taipei is the vibrant capital city known for its eclectic blend of tradition and modernity. This pulsating metropolis is dotted with towering skyscrapers including Taipei 101, once the world's tallest building, which offers breathtaking views of the cityscape. The city is famous for its lively night markets, particularly Shilin market, where visitors can indulge in authentic Taiwanese street food. In contrast to the bustling city, Taipei is also home to serene spots such as Beitou, renowned for its hot springs and the impressive, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. With its rich history, phenomenal culinary scene, and unique culture, Taipei provides an enticing mix of experiences for every traveler.
2, Nantou
Nantou, the only landlocked county in Taiwan, is located in the heart of this stunning island nation. Known for its lush, mountainous landscapes, it's a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Its claim to fame includes the scenic Sun Moon Lake, the breathtaking Hehuanshan mountain range, and the culturally rich Taiwanese aboriginal villages. Travelers can immerse themselves in natural beauty, engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating, or explore the area's rich indigenous heritage. With refreshing tea plantations and old-world temples adding to Nantou's charm, this destination offers a truly authentic Taiwanese experience.
3, Keelung
Keelung, located in the northeast of Taiwan, is a thriving seaport city known for its rich history and vibrant natural landscapes. Nestled between steep cliffs and the Pacific Ocean, the city boasts a scenic mountain range and harbor, presenting visitors with breathtaking views of the organic beauty that Taiwan has to offer. Among its numerous attractions, the famous Keelung Night Market, renowned for its variety of special local dishes, stands as a food paradise for culinary adventurers. Additionally, historic sites like the Ershawan Fort and the Baimiweng Fort offer a glimpse into the city's past, while the sublime architecture of the Dianji temple attracts individuals with an affinity towards unique cultural experiences. The mystical Buddha statues at the Zhongzheng Park and the lush green landscapes of Heping Island Park are yet other highlights of this bustling city. Endowed with both natural splendor and a rich cultural heritage, Keelung is truly a fascinating city to explore.
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4, New Taipei City
New Taipei City, the most populous city in Taiwan, is a sprawling metropolis which encompasses mountains, hot springs, temples, and a lively coastline. Located on the northern tip of the island, it surrounds the bustling capital, Taipei. This dynamic city is famous for its vibrant night markets like the Tamsui Old Street, where you can experience delightful street foods and local handicrafts. Not to be missed is the historic Pingxi District, known for its sky lantern festival that illuminates the night sky. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s wealth of museums, and nature lovers will revel in the scenic beauty of attractions like the Yehliu Geopark and the Bitan Scenic Area. With a rich blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, New Taipei City offers a tapestry of experiences for every traveler.
5, Taoyuan
Taoyuan, located in the northwestern part of Taiwan, serves as a vital international gateway for travelers due to its recognition as home to Taiwan's largest airport, Taoyuan International Airport. Recognized as a modern industrial city, it's best known for its high-tech industries, vast shopping districts, and delectable street markets offering a rich taste of traditional Taiwanese cuisine. Visitors are taken by Taoyuan's harmonious blend of rural and urban landscapes - lush greenery in Longtan Lake, captivating city views in Hutou Mountain, and beautiful Hakka culture in Lianhua Art Village. It's also known for the annual Lantern Festival, a vibrant event that illuminally Zings the crisp February nights with thousands of beautifully crafted lanterns.
6, Yilan
Yilan, an enchanting destination located on the northeastern coast of Taiwan, is widely recognized for its lush verdant landscapes, isolated beaches, and hot springs. Appreciated for its natural beauty and cultural richness, Yilan is home to the Lanyang Museum, a must-visit for tourists, which tells the story of the city's marine and cultural history. The city also hosts the Yilan International Children's Folklore and Folk Game Festival every summer, a renowned event that draws in international participation. The remarkable Turtle Island, famous for its rich marine life and visible volcanic features, sits not far offshore. Yilan, indeed, is a perfect blend of tradition, culture, and natural beauty.
7, Hsinchu
Hsinchu, located on the northwest coast of Taiwan, is a vibrant city known as Taiwan's "Windy City" due to its climate. It is renowned for its technological and educational contributions, housing numerous universities and the highest number of hi-tech industrial parks, thereby earning the epithet "Silicon Valley of Asia". Visitors to Hsinchu can explore the rich cultural heritage in Old Hsinchu City with delightful traditional cuisine at the Cheng Huang Temple Night Market. With attractions such as the captivating Eighteen Peaks Mountain for hiking, the historical Eastern Gate, and the mesmerizing Nanliao Fishing Harbor, Hsinchu makes for a fascinating blend of the old and new, offering an enriching travel experience.
8, Hsinchu County
Located in the northern part of Taiwan, Hsinchu County is renowned for its diverse topography of mountains, plains, and coastline. Hsinchu is colloquially known as "The Windy City," due to its breezy climate brought about by northeastern monsoons. It is recognized worldwide as a hub for science and technology, being the home of the Hsinchu Science and Industrial Park, often touted as Taiwan's Silicon Valley. Alongside its technological prowess, the county also boasts a rich cultural heritage with a plethora of historical attractions ranging from temples to old-style houses. Visitors are also drawn to its natural attractions, including the enchanting Eighteen Peaks Mountain and the popular Nanliao Fishing Harbor. Known for its bamboo products and seafood cuisine, particularly its fresh oysters, Hsinchu offers travelers a unique blend of modern innovation and traditional culture.
9, Hualien
Located on the eastern coast of Taiwan, Hualien is an enchanting city renowned for its diverse natural beauty. Visitors are drawn to this seaside city for its undulating mountains, picturesque cliffs and serene coastal views, particularly those of the Pacific Ocean. Perhaps most iconic is the Taroko National Park, a gorgeous natural panorama of marble-walled canyons, lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. Beyond its stunning landscapes, Hualien is acclaimed for its tasty local cuisine and rich indigenous cultures. Exploring its bustling night markets, local eateries and cultural exhibits offers an immersive dive into Taiwan's vibrant traditions. As a city of captivating contrasts - between mountain and sea, tradition and modernity - Hualien offers a truly unique Taiwanese experience.
10, Taitung
Taitung, located in the southeastern part of Taiwan, is a hidden gem renowned for its untouched natural beauty and rich indigenous culture. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean on one side and the towering Central Mountain Range on the other, Taitung is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts offering opportunities for hiking, hot air ballooning, and more. Travelers throng to the Taitung Forest Park, known as the Black Forest, due to the unique dark-colored appearance of its numerous tree species. A vibrant hotspot of aboriginal culture, Taitung is known for its elaborate festivals, indigenous arts, and the famous Taitung Night Market buzzing with delicious local food and fun-filled activities. To take in the breathtaking coastline views, a trip down the scenic Taitung Coastline is a must for every visitor. So, whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a culture enthusiast, Taitung has something for everyone.
11, Green Island
Spectacularly nestled in the Pacific Ocean, off the southeastern coast of Taiwan, Green Island lures visitors with its incredible beauty and stunning natural assets. This enticing travel destination is particularly famous for its distinctive coral reefs, an exquisite natural hot spring located right in the ocean, and the unique coastal basalt formations that characterize its rugged scenery. Enthusiasts of marine life are drawn to Green Island because of its extraordinary snorkeling and scuba-diving opportunities, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking an adventurous water-related excursion. Furthermore, the island is steeped in history and notable for its unique cultural nuances, including the former penal colony, now converted into the Green Island Human Rights Culture Park, dedicated to those who were incarcerated during Taiwan's White Terror era. This mesmerizing island is a blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and thrilling adventure, forming a dynamic tapestry of memorable experiences waiting for you to explore.
12, Miaoli
Located in the western part of Taiwan, Miaoli is a enticing destination teeming with cultural richness and natural beauty. Known as "The City of Culture", Miaoli offers numerous attractions including the enticing Lavender Cottage, the unique Shengxing Railway Station built during the Japanese era, and the Hakka Round House which wonderfully exemplifies Hakka architecture. Visitors can marvel at the stunning waterfalls at Tongluo's Three Gorges, trek through the scenic trails of Lion's Head Mountain, or indulge in the region's profoundly rich culture at the Miaoli Hakka Cultural Park. The city is also renowned for its vibrant festivals, particularly the Miaoli Wind Festival and the Hakka Tung Blossom Festival, both celebratory showcases of the city's cultural heritage and environmental consciousness.
13, Taichung
Taichung, the second most populous city in Taiwan, located on the island's central-western coastline, boasts a rich blend of tradition and modernity. Known for being a hub of culture, Taichung is marked by a vibrant mix of contemporary architectural marvels like the National Taichung Theater and the significant historic landmarks including the iconic Taichung Park. It is renowned for its bustling night markets such as Fengjia, touted as Taiwan's largest night market, where tourists can indulge in a variety of local street foods. The city is equally famed for its unique Bubble Tea, making it a paradise for tea lovers. From the colorful Rainbow Village and its street art to the lush landscapes of Sun Moon Lake, Taichung invites its visitors to experience a slice of Taiwanese culture in all its glory.
14, Changhua
Nestled in the heart of Taiwan, Changhua is a charming county known for its deep historical roots and vibrant culture. With Tainan to its south and Taichung to the east, Changhua's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Taiwan. It’s famed for the magnificent Giant Buddha of Baguashan, the largest Buddha statue in Southeast Asia, with panoramic views over Changhua City. Fanshuliao - a tunnel formed by a long-term river scouring, Great Buddha of Baguashan, and Lugang Old Street – an area encapsulating the essence of Changhua's heritage and local delicacies, are among the must-visit spots. With its beautifully preserved Qing dynasty architecture, traditional Taiwanese cuisines, and its famous still-functioning railway roundhouse - the only semi-circular train depot in Taiwan, a jaunt to Changhua offers a peek into the authentic Taiwanese lifestyle.
15, Kinmen
Nestled just off the southeastern coast of mainland China, Kinmen is a captivating archipelago under the administration of Taiwan and is replete with unparalleled heritage and astonishing landscapes. Characterized by its historical essence that reflects its role in the Chinese Civil War, Kinmen is renowned for its battlefield sites, ancient temples, traditional Fujian-style architecture, and the immersive patriotic tunnel systems, which serve as a relic of the island's tumultuous past. Known for the production of Kaoliang liquor, a potent sorghum-based spirit and the melodious sounds of traditional knife making, the island also captivates with its serene environment, pleasant landscapes, and abundant birdlife, making it an attractive escape for nature enthusiasts, historians, and adventurers alike.
16, Chiayi
Located in the southwestern region of Taiwan, Chiayi is a beacon for culture and history-seeking travelers who crave authentic Taiwanese experiences. Recognized as the gateway to the scenic Alishan Mountain Range, Chiayi boasts immersive nature trails and stunning sunrise views. The city itself is rich with attractions, including the Chiayi Park, home to the historically significant Chiayi Tower and beautiful Sun Shooting Tower. Chiayi is internationally known for its bustling night markets, culinary delights, specifically its famous Turkey rice, and the yearly Lantern Festival, which sets the city ablaze with thousands of colorful paper lanterns. With artistic boutiques and local temples adding to its charm, Chiayi successfully blends an endearing sense of its rich past with an effervescent present.
17, Penghu
Located off the western coast of Taiwan, Penghu, also known as the Pescadores Islands, is an archipelago renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known for its captivating basalt rock formations, immaculate beaches, diverse marine life, and the world's greatest density of traditional stone tidal weirs, Penghu is a paradise for nature and culture enthusiasts alike. The area's year-round kite-flying conditions make it a popular spot for kite enthusiasts, and history buffs will appreciate the age-old temples scattered throughout the islands. Adding to its charm, the city's centuries-old well-preserved Fongguei Cave is a must-visit attraction, boasting impressive sea erosion landscape. With local cuisine as delightful as its sceneries, Penghu offers a unique cultural blend of traditional Taiwanese and South Fujianese influences, promising an unforgettable travel experience.
18, Pingtung
Pingtung is a vibrant and culturally-rich city nestled at the southern tip of Taiwan, enveloped by scenic beauty and a stunning coastline. Renowned for its abundant tropical fruits, awe-inspiring landscapes, and enchanting indigenous cultures, it serves as a celestial bridge between the traditional and the modern. Visitors to Pingtung can explore the Kenting National Park, famous for its rich biodiversity and marine life; enjoy an exhilarating hike up the majestic Dawu Mountain, or immerse themselves in the culturally enriching Hakka and indigenous Paiwan experiences. Whether its sunbathing on Kending's expansive beaches, attending the internationally acclaimed Music Festival or reveling in the pulsating Lantern Festival, Pingtung certainly offers a travel experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and a warming sense of cultural profundity.
19, Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung, Taiwan's second-largest city, is located in the south of the island nation and offers a captivating blend of modern progress and traditional heritage. Known for its thriving harbor, Kaohsiung is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant art scene, featuring the award-winning Weiwuying - National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts and the Pier-2 Art District that are adorned with unique street art. The city's Love River serves as a beautiful focal point for water and nightlife activities, while the nearby Lotus Lake boasts stunning pagodas. Notably, Kaohsiung is also the gateway to the serene islands of Cijin, popular for its seafood, and the nearby Maolin National Scenic Area, a butterfly valley teeming with tropical biodiversity.
20, Tainan
Tainan, situated on Taiwan's southwest coastal plains, is the country's oldest city and is renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. It is often referred to as the "Cultural Capital of Taiwan", boasting an impressive collection of several mighty fortresses, ornate temples such as the Confucius Temple and Matsu temples, and delightful traditional snack foods. Tainan is also the birthplace of Taiwan and is home to the country's first educational institution, making it a prominent hub for history and culture lovers. The city's charming old streets and lively night markets, where one can indulge in local delicacies and crafts, further contribute to its attraction, offering a blend of tradition and modernity that is truly unique.
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