Taiwan Travel: A Comprehensive Guide (Latest 2024 Update)

Explore Taiwan with the most comprehensive guide from Mytour, providing you with information on visa application, exciting destinations, and delicious cuisine of this land.

Visa Application Tips | Ideal Travel Time | Tips for Finding Cheap Flight Tickets + Transportation | Attractions | Must-Try Delicacies | Local Specialties as Gifts | Famous Night Markets

Taiwan Travel: A Comprehensive Guide (Latest 2024 Update)

Overview of Taiwan Tourism

Taiwan is an island located in East Asia, around 100 km off the southeastern coast of mainland China, across the Taiwan Strait. Also known as Formosa, which means 'beautiful island,' Taiwan offers fascinating natural landscapes, friendly and hospitable people, rich and vibrant traditional culture, modern cities, bustling night markets, and exquisite cuisine.

When is the Best Time to Visit Taiwan?

You can visit Taiwan at any time of the year depending on your personal preferences and the activities you want to engage in; you can choose the most suitable time to travel here.

Spring (March to May): Cool and warm weather, ideal for sightseeing and admiring cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Autumn (September to November): Refreshing and pleasant climate, perfect for exploring the suburbs and enjoying the natural scenery.

Summer (June to August): Although temperatures can be high and there may be occasional rain, this is a suitable time for outdoor activities and summer festivals.

Winter (December to February): The coldest season, but the weather is not too harsh, suitable for visiting famous tourist spots.

Tips for Obtaining a Visa for Taiwan

Visa Application Documents

Personal Documents

- Original passport valid for at least 6 months (with signature);

- Previous passports (if any, original);

- 2 passport-sized photos (4×6) with white background taken within the last 3 to 6 months;

- Household registration, ID card (original);

- Birth certificate or marriage certificate (if traveling with family) (original).

Proof of Employment

Employees:

- Labor contract, latest 3-month pay slip (original);

- Health insurance, social insurance (required to be captured on the app);

- Leave request form with company stamp and signature of the employer.

Business Owners:

- Original business license and certified copy;

- Confirmation of tax payment for the last 6 months (not tax return).

Proof of Assets/Financial:

- Savings book with balance over 100,000,000 VND (with 1 photocopy);

- Property ownership documents for real estate, cars, etc.

Note: All the above documents must be accompanied by the original for verification and returned on the same day. Provide power of attorney for company staff to collect the visa results, confirmed by a notary public, documents printed on one side and stapled if there are 2 pages.

Here are some tips to increase your chances of getting a Taiwan visa:

• Prepare complete and valid Taiwan visa application documents.
• Choose the right type of visa suitable for your intended purpose of entry.
• Fill out the Taiwan visa application form accurately and completely.
• Provide clear documentation of financial capability and purpose of entry.
• Have ties to Vietnam, such as employment, residence, assets, etc.
• Respond to consular officer's questions clearly and truthfully.

Above are the basic documents for applying for a Taiwan visa. Depending on the case, you may be required to provide additional documents from the consulate.

Transportation, Traveling around Taiwan

Traveling to Taiwan

With the increasingly developed air transport system, and the growing number of airlines operating flights from Vietnam to Taiwan, it is not difficult for travelers to find suitable flights to Taiwan. Taiwan is also a country with numerous international airports spread throughout the country, making it convenient for travelers to choose.

Among the international airports in Taiwan, two commonly chosen by Vietnamese tourists as destinations when traveling to Taiwan are Taoyuan Airport and Kaohsiung Airport. In addition to direct flights, there are also connecting flights available, but they will take more time. It is still advisable to choose direct flights.

Flights from Vietnam to Taiwan depart from three major airports: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), Da Nang International Airport (DAD), and Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). Many airlines operate flights on these routes, such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, EVA Air, China Airlines, Mandarin Airlines, Far Eastern Air Transport, Cathay Pacific Airways, Shenzhen Airlines, etc. For direct flights from Noi Bai Airport and Da Nang Airport to Taiwan, it typically takes about 3.5 hours. From Tan Son Nhat Airport to Taiwan, it usually takes around 4 hours. You can check ticket prices and make reservations here.

Transportation from the airport to the city center

Taiwan Taoyuan Airport

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is located approximately 40km from downtown Taipei, making it the busiest airport in Taiwan. The airport is known as a major commercial hub with medical services, restaurants, and duty-free shops. On average, TPE welcomes over 50 million passengers and handles over 2 million tons of cargo annually. There are various transportation options available from Taoyuan Airport to downtown Taipei. For more details, refer to the article 'Guide to Getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei City.'

Kaohsiung Airport (Cao Hùng)

Kaohsiung International Airport is approximately 8.5km from downtown and is the second busiest airport in Taiwan. Here are some convenient transportation options from the airport to downtown Kaohsiung.

Bus – Buses are commonly used in Taiwan with relatively low fares, around 50 - 75 TWD per trip, departing every 30 minutes from the terminal. You can easily catch a bus at the station to downtown.

Taxi – Taxis at Kaohsiung Airport are divided into Standing taxis and Roving taxis. Standing taxis charge by the kilometer, with an average fare of about 300 TWD per trip, while Roving taxis require negotiation before boarding. Therefore, choose the most suitable option. Taxis are readily available 24/7 at the airport exit.

KRTC Metro – Preferred by tourists for its speed and convenience, the KRTC Metro operates from R4 - Kaohsiung International Airport to R11 - Kaohsiung Main Station. The journey takes about 1 hour, with trains running every 4 - 8 minutes. The fare is 20 - 30 TWD per leg, depending on the number of segments traveled. Payment can be made using the Easy Card or by purchasing tokens from automated token machines.

Transportation in Taipei

In a developed city and country like Taiwan, it's easy to find a suitable mode of transportation. Here are some common transportation options in Taipei and Taiwan in general:

– High-Speed Rail (Taiwan High-Speed Rail - THSR): Used for traveling between cities.

– Metro (MRT): Used for commuting within Taipei City and other cities.

– Public Bus: A popular mode of transportation for getting around Taipei City and other cities.

– Ubike (Bike Rental): A notable transportation option available exclusively in Taipei.

– Taxi: A fast but relatively expensive mode of transportation.

– Other transportation options include: scooters, trains, etc.

Some tips for using the MRT:

– Avoid being too late for a train as the MRT operates only until 12 am midnight.

– Be careful not to go to the wrong exit. Each MRT station has 9 exits, so make sure to determine the correct direction to minimize travel time.

– It's important to know the direction of the MRT. Therefore, using the Google Maps app for MRT navigation and having a map is crucial to avoid getting lost.

Places to visit in Hong Kong

Lanyang Museum

The Lanyang Museum in Taiwan was built during the Qing Dynasty with its unique architecture offering visitors diverse and fascinating perspectives. It's truly a masterpiece designed by architect Kris Yao's team. Just standing outside is enough to marvel at its exquisite and impressive beauty, both modern and environmentally friendly. Not only a destination rich in cultural and historical significance, but also an ideal spot for amazing photo opportunities that tourists love.

Inspired by the towering cliffs along the Beiguan coastline, the museum's unique architecture stands out. Additionally, the museum's roof is inclined at about 20 degrees, with glass walls made entirely of steel reaching a 70-degree tilt. This creates a remarkably unique and special appearance. From the museum, you can gaze out over the surrounding ponds and fields of reeds.

Chan Hung Temple

Chan Hung Temple is located in Thai Hoa Village, Mai Son District, Gia Nghia City (Taiwan) at a 45-degree tilt. International visitors often visit and refer to it as the 'Pisa Tower of Taiwan'.

Before August 2009, Chan Hung Temple stood upright like any other temple across the island. However, after Typhoon Morakot in the same year, the ground subsided, causing Chan Hung Temple to gradually sink. By 2020, the Alishan National Scenic Area Management Office built an observation deck opposite to facilitate visitors in admiring the scenery.

Cao My Marsh

Cao My Marsh is one of Taiwan's wetland conservation areas covering over 300 hectares with diverse ecosystems, making it an excellent place to observe rare bird species. Different bird species migrate here every season from various places. Additionally, the mudflats here provide an ideal breeding ground for crustaceans.

Moon Lake

Moon Lake is located at the foot of the central mountain range of Taiwan and is surrounded by forests and hiking trails. To the east of the lake is the Formosan Aboriginal Cultural Village, an amusement park featuring reconstructed traditional villages. The exhibitions here include intricately carved pieces dating back centuries, handicrafts, and weaponry.

Ten Part Ancient Village

Ten Part Old Street retains the charming atmosphere of its former railway town. Initially built for coal transportation, it has now become one of the most famous stops on the Pingxi railway line. Visitors can also personally write prayers on lanterns and light candles to release them into the sky, wishing for luck and peace.

Ten Part Waterfall

The waterfall is an ideal destination for those seeking adventurous journeys along challenging mountain roads. On both sides of the descent to the waterfall, you can admire the cascading white streams pouring into the azure lake. The rocks on either side of the waterfall go against the water flow, a geological feature called anticline. The majestic waterfall cascades down into the deep gorge below. When the sun shines on the waterfall, visitors can see rainbows hanging over the water.

Dragon Mountain Temple

Dragon Mountain Temple was built in 1738 during the reign of Emperor Qianlong. Over its 284-year history, the temple has been renovated several times but still retains its original structure. The present temple was rebuilt in the early 1900s with a combination of Buddhism and Taoism. When visiting this temple, tourists will have the opportunity to learn more about the religious life and beliefs of the people of Taiwan.

Taipei 101 Tower

Located in Xinyi District, Taipei, Taipei 101 Tower was the tallest building in the world from 2004 to 2010. The tower consists of eight sections, each with eight floors, as the number eight symbolizes prosperity and luck. Taipei 101 Tower is the perfect place to admire Taipei from above. The tower features an architecture resembling a bamboo stalk reaching up to the clouds, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth. To date, the tower has 61 elevators, including 2 elevators that move at an astonishing speed of 37.7 mph, making it the second-fastest elevator in the world.

Phật Quang Mountain/Fo Guang Shan

This magnificent Buddhist architectural complex was initiated by Master Hsing Yun in 1967 and was completed in 1974. With a total area of ​​100 hectares, the entire Fo Guang Shan is a monumental architectural ensemble that impresses any visitor. Particularly noteworthy is the golden statue of Amitabha Buddha, measuring 36.5 meters, and 480 standing Buddha statues surrounded by rivers and mountains. Not only is Fo Guang Shan the largest Buddhist sanctuary in Taiwan, but it also serves as one of the world's largest Buddhist universities, where thousands of Buddhists and tourists visit every day.

Lian Tri Pond

This place is famous for its stunning natural scenery, vast lakes, and endless expanses. Lian Tri Pond is considered a symbol of Taiwanese architectural art. This scenic area features a unique combination of spiritual landscapes and mysterious Dragon Tiger Towers, as well as picturesque wetland areas. Lian Tri Pond also attracts attention with numerous scattered temples. Among them are Confucius Temple and Dragon Tiger Tower, characteristic architectural structures of China.

Van Vo Temple

Van Vo Temple, built in 1934, preserves the ancient Confucian beauty remaining in Taiwan. The temple is divided into two main areas: the literature temple - dedicated to Confucius, and the martial temple - dedicated to Guan Gong. Van Vo Temple stands out with its traditional Chinese architecture. Here, you can enjoy Oolong tea, a famous Taiwanese tea.

Yangmingshan National Park

Yangmingshan National Park is a natural park located within the largest volcanic and hot spring area in Taipei. As a vast park with a cool climate all year round, beautiful flower farms, and meadows, you will have a wonderful time exploring Yangmingshan National Park. The 125-hectare park offers many trails for easy walking, sightseeing, and especially capturing beautiful photos for your trip. It would be a big miss if you visit Taiwan in spring without visiting Yangmingshan to immerse yourself in the fresh, vibrant beauty of cherry blossoms, azaleas, rhododendrons, and grass.

Caihongjuan Rainbow Village

The village, only about 1000 square meters wide, was once on the verge of destruction, but fortunately, a veteran saved the village by decorating it with fun drawings, giving it a 'second life' that is even more vibrant. Covered in vibrant colors and whimsical illustrations from wall to floor, the 'rainbow village' has become a famous tourist destination attracting over 2 million tourists every year and is a popular check-in spot for young people.

Taiwanese Cuisine

Fried Chicken Waffle

Fried chicken waffle is the number one street food in Taiwan for those who love the sweet aroma of batter mixed with the soft sweetness of juicy chicken soaked in sauce. The waffle is crispy, served with fried chicken wrapped in creamy gruyere cheese, exuding a fragrant aroma accompanied by a hint of onions to balance the taste.

Fermented Tofu Fries

A fermented tofu, although its smell may be unpleasant, is a nutritious dish. The fermented tofu fries are fried crispy and topped with various sauces to mask the odor. Despite the initial challenge, once you try this dish, you'll get addicted to it. It can be served with spicy cabbage to reduce the smell when eating.

Coffin Bread

Although the name sounds scary, this is a famous street food in Taiwan's night markets. The rectangular bread is hollowed out in the middle and filled with ingredients such as shrimp, squid, oysters, meat, and finely chopped old vegetables inside. When eaten, it is drizzled with various sauces on top, making it extremely enticing.

Taiwanese Beef Noodles

The noodles used in Taiwanese beef noodles are flat yellow rice noodles, thick and firm, which do not get mushy when left in the broth, maintaining a certain chewiness. The beef used is tender and thinly sliced, with marbled fat interspersed, melting in the mouth. The broth is simmered from beef bones combined with Chinese herbs, tomatoes, and spices. Although the ingredients are simple, the cooking process is intricate, requiring a lot of effort and time. Thanks to the harmonious combination, it creates a sweet and savory flavor, captivating diners from the first whiff.

Grilled Corn with Sauce

Completely different from Vietnamese grilled corn. Taiwanese grilled corn is brushed with a BBQ sauce while grilling. This sauce is made from a mixture of 30 different ingredients, creating a distinctive aroma and unique flavor.

Braised Pork and Eggs with Rice

A popular dish in any Taiwanese household. The pork and boiled eggs are braised until soft, fatty, and balanced in salty sweetness, combined with eye-catching colors. When eaten with white rice, it will make anyone melt.

Iron Eggs

Iron eggs, or herbal duck eggs, are a famous delicacy of Tamsui - Taiwan, sold throughout the streets. Iron eggs are eggs such as chicken eggs, pigeon eggs, or quail eggs stewed with soy sauce, star anise, and various other spices, creating a rich flavor for the eggs.

Meat Bun

Meat bun, also known as Taiwan's hamburger. The soft outer layer of the bun is folded, sandwiching inside it stewed pork, pickled mustard greens, sprinkled with finely ground peanuts and some aromatic herbs. The salty, sweet, and sour flavors blend explosively in the mouth when enjoyed.

Pearl Milk Tea

Taiwan is known as the land of milk tea, and this is the signature drink of the country. Most of the famous milk tea brands today originate from Taiwan. You can find pearl milk tea everywhere from night markets to shops along the streets in this country.

Milk Clam Bun

These buns are filled with tender milk clams, combined with chicken eggs and scallions, then deep-fried to a delightful golden brown. This dish can be easily found at the night markets in Taiwan.

Oyster Omelette

A dish made quite simply from fried eggs and oysters but delivers an irresistibly delicious flavor. Eggs are mixed with oysters, herbs, fried until crispy, and then topped with a spicy sauce, eaten hot, making everyone who tries it fall in love with this dish.

Three-Cup Chicken

It's named so uniquely because the chicken is cooked with a cup of sesame oil, a cup of soy sauce, and a cup of cooking wine, totaling three cups. This chicken dish combines sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors, served with hot white rice, incredibly enticing.

Pork Dumpling Ti Hoeh Koe

Ti hoeh koe is made from sticky rice and pork dumplings, steamed or fried before dipping into sweet soybean sauce, then rolled in fragrant peanut powder and herbs. In fact, this dish is quite delicious and easy to eat rather than 'terrifying' as its name suggests. If you see this dish on the street, be sure to buy and taste it to see how it feels.

Fish Cake Tian Bu La

The Tian Bu La fish cake originates from Japanese oden and is then reprocessed by Taiwanese people with a sweeter taste, firmer texture, and distinctive sauce. The fish cake is shaped and sized differently, fried until crispy, then boiled in broth. Before eating, you dip the fish cake in the broth and mix it with the brown sauce.

Sun Cake Tai Yang Bing

This special cake is round, flat, and brightly yellow like the sun, and it bursts out interestingly with sweet fillings from maltose or condensed malt sugar.

Taiwan Hotel

Sunroute Taipei Hotel

Located in the bustling area of Taipei, Sunroute Taipei Hotel offers 125 modern rooms equipped with a refrigerator and a flat-screen TV. Guests can enjoy free wired and wireless internet access, and cable TV programs for relaxation. The bathrooms come with complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer. Rooms are equipped with a safety deposit box and housekeeping service.

Sunroute Taipei Hotel is situated 30km from Taipei International Airport and just about 300m from 2 MRT stations: Zhongshan Elementary School Station and Minquan West Road Station, making transportation very convenient. Here, guests can indulge in unique cuisine with delicious dishes at the restaurant or enjoy light snacks at the hotel's café.

Illume Taipei Hotel

Located in the heart of Taipei, Illume Taipei Hotel is ideally situated at the intersection of Nanjing East Road and Dun Hua North Road, surrounded by lush greenery creating a refreshing atmosphere. Facing the Taipei Arena and adjacent to two MRT subway stations, the hotel is only 1.6km from Taipei Songshan Airport.

Illume Taipei offers a variety of rooms and suites, totaling 312 high-quality accommodations. The fully equipped rooms provide comfort and privacy, offering a tranquil retreat for relaxation and rest. The fitness center and outdoor swimming pool allow guests to enjoy serenity and relaxation in the bustling urban environment.

The Landis Taipei Hotel

With elegant French-inspired decor, The Landis Taipei is a luxurious 5-star hotel featuring 209 rooms and 3 dining restaurants. Designed for comfort, all accommodations offer ample amenities to ensure guests' relaxation. Some rooms at The Landis Taipei Hotel also feature a separate living area within the room.

The Landis Taipei boasts Art Deco architecture. It also has a gift shop and tour desk for sightseeing information. The hotel's space combines classic and modern elements. The entire hotel interior is elegantly decorated and cozy, providing the most comfortable resort space for guests.

Shopping for Souvenirs

Mochi Cakes

Originating from Japan, this cake, also known as doushou, is a type of sticky rice cake wrapped around various fruits and a layer of cold cream. It's a delightful and popular snack or dessert, offering a refreshing and sweet taste.

Pineapple Cake

Few may know that pineapple is a common fruit in Taiwan, and from pineapple, people have created many dishes, including pineapple cake. The soft, fragrant sweetness of the combination of pineapple and rice will surely melt the hearts of many travelers when they indulge in this cake.

Thieu Hung Liquor

This liquor is made from high-quality Bong Lai rice and pure spring water from the Ailan Plateau in the west of Puli town. Due to its characteristic minerals, only water from this region can create the authentic flavor of this liquor. Thieu Hung Liquor has a shiny golden color with a fragrant and sweet aftertaste.

Rice Noodles

Rice noodles have been imported from Fujian Province, China, to Taiwan for over a hundred years. The traditional rice noodle strands in Taipei are meticulously crafted, requiring years of experience accumulated by skilled artisans. When visiting the noodle-making villages in Taipei, you'll be amazed by the white color of the rice noodles drying, resembling intricately woven hammocks surrounding the houses and gardens.

Kinmen Peanut Candy

This type of candy, highly renowned in Taiwan and produced on Kinmen Island, involves grinding peanuts and cooking them with maltose. When cooled, it solidifies into a mold and is then cut into small candy bars.

Iron Eggs

Various eggs are stewed with soy sauce, star anise, and other spices to create a rich flavor. Each batch takes up to 3 hours to prepare. This dish earns its peculiar name due to its tough outer shell. The eggs turn black from being repeatedly soaked in soy sauce, then dried until the shell becomes as desired.

Taichung Sun Cake

The soft and fragrant crust. The filling inside is a combination of honey and various jams. This type of cake has a slightly bitter taste of tea when eaten. However, it also has a moderate sweetness of the cake dough that keeps you eating without feeling nauseous.

Lei-cha Tea Dessert

This dessert is made from various teas, beans, crushed fruits, and dried herbs. When consuming this dessert, hot water is used to mix the ingredients together. Lei-cha tea dessert is a traditional Hakka beverage and is very effective in weight loss. It is a very healthy and convenient food.

Bottled Taiwanese Milk Tea

Taiwanese milk tea is famous worldwide for its uniquely sweet and fragrant taste. If you haven't had enough of Taiwanese milk tea while traveling in Taiwan, don't worry, there are bottled milk tea shops where you can buy and use it as a gift for your loved ones. This bottled milk tea comes with 1 tea powder pack, 1 milk pack, and 1 topping pack. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a delicious cup of milk tea.

According to Mytour

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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour