Best day trips in Taiwan

Lantern-lit hillside alleys. Spirited Away vibes. A-Mei Teahouse. Taro balls + peanut ice cream roll.

"Magical at night with pure Spirited Away vibes, part of a $26 day tour"

Sky lanterns (~$8, fits 4 people, get biodegradable). Railway through town. Shifen Waterfall.

"Release a sky lantern filled with hopes and dreams for $8, plus stunning Shifen Waterfall"

Taiwan's most visited landmark. Electric bike 30km loop. CNN Top 10 cycle path.

"Crystal clear waters perfect for a scenic boat ride or cycling adventure around the lake"

Ancient cypress forests (3,000 years old). Sunrise train to Zhushan Mountain.

"Peaceful mountain retreat worth visiting outside of Taipei"

Alien-like mushroom rock formations. Part of combo day tour with Jiufen + Shifen.

"Famous for fascinating alien-like rock formations"

Marble gorge, crystal rivers. Shakadang Trail, Eternal Spring Shrine.

"Jaw-dropping gorge with crystal clear river trails and marble cliff hikes, check for closures"

Gold Museum, Golden Waterfall, Teapot Mountain hike. Barely any tourists compared to Jiufen.

"Quieter alternative to Jiufen with Gold Museum, historic miner homes, and scenic overlooks"

Beautiful beaches, sea turtles at Wanlitong. Very far south — 6 hrs from Taipei.

"Southern tip national park with beautiful beaches, amazing snorkeling, and best night market of the trip"

Former mining town turned cat sanctuary. On the Pingxi Line — combine with Shifen.

"visited as part of Pingxi Line day trip"