TAIWAN
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The Heart of Asia!
Officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), Taiwan lies on the western edge of the Pacific ‘Rim of Fire’. Continuous tectonic movements created Taiwan’s majestic peaks, rolling hills, plains and coastline. Taiwan’s tropical, sub-tropical, and temperate climates provide clear differentiation between the seasons. Taiwan’s flora and fauna includes many rare or endangered species, including the land-locked salmon, Taiwan serow, Formosan rock monkey, Formosan black bear, blue magpie, Mikado pheasant and the Hsuehshan grass lizard.
Taiwan boasts 9 national parks and 13 national scenic areas, in an effort to preserve the natural ecological environment, as well as cultural sites.
Discover the Taiwan’s beauty – trek spectacular Taroko Gorge; ride the Alishan Forest Railway and experience a breathtaking sunrise over a sea of clouds; hike to the summit of Northeast Asia’s highest peak, Yu Mountain (Yushan). Perhaps soak up the sun in Kenting – Asia’s version of Hawaii; stand at the edge of Sun Moon Lake; wander the East Rift Valley; or visit the offshore islands of Kinmen and Penghu. It’s all good natural fun, as well as an amazing journey of natural discovery!
What To See and Do
- Visit the amazing Fulong International Sand Sculpture Festival April – August. Just incredible.
- Walk the Elephant Mountain hiking trail, or the more challenging Bitoujiao ‘nature walk’ hiking trail.
- Visit the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
- Visit Taipei 101 – the 2nd tallest building in the world, for amazing views.
- Experience Sun Moon Lake and the Alishan Mountain Railway.
- Visit Taroko Gorge National Park – one of the seven wonders of Asia
- Launch a sky lantern at Ping Xi in the old city
- Warm your toes at Jiaosi Hot Springs and Geysers
- Visit a night market and enjoy delicious local delicacies and street food.
When To Go
Taiwan lies on the Tropic of Cancer, and its general climate is marine tropical. The northern and central regions are subtropical, whereas the south is tropical and the mountainous regions are temperate. The average rainfall is 2,600 mm per year. The rainy season is in May and June and the entire island experiences hot, humid weather from June through September. Typhoons are most common in July, August and September. During the winter (November to March), the northeast experiences steady rain, while the central and southern parts of the island are mostly sunny. Daytime average temperatures are: Spring – 24C; Summer – 30C; Autumn – 25C; Winter 0 17C.
