Unlocking the Hidden Gems of Taiwan

Taiwan is a hidden gem in East Asia, offering a perfect blend of nature, culture, and modernity. The island nation is known for its bustling cities, stunning beaches, and verdant mountains. But beyond the popular tourist destinations lie hidden gems that are only known to the locals. These places offer a glimpse into Taiwan's rich history and culture, and are well worth a visit. In this article, we will explore 5 must-see places in Taiwan that are known only to the locals.

Sanxia Old Street

Sanxia Old Street is located in the town of Sanxia, just outside of Taipei. This charming street is lined with traditional red-brick buildings that date back to the Qing dynasty. The buildings have been well-preserved, and many of them now house shops and cafes that sell traditional Taiwanese snacks and souvenirs.

One of the highlights of Sanxia Old Street is the Zushi Temple. This beautiful temple was built in the 18th century and is dedicated to Matsu, the goddess of the sea. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and colorful murals that depict scenes from Chinese mythology. Visitors can also enjoy a performance of traditional Taiwanese opera at the temple.

Sanxia Old Street is a popular destination for locals, especially during the Lunar New Year holiday. The street comes alive with lion dances, dragon dances, and other festive activities. It's a great place to experience traditional Taiwanese culture and sample local delicacies.

Caoling Historic Trail

The Caoling Historic Trail is a 8.5 km hiking trail that connects Fulong Beach in New Taipei City to Dali in Yilan County. The trail was originally built by the Qing dynasty in the 18th century to defend against invasions from the east. Today, it offers a scenic and historically significant hike that is not well-known to tourists.

The trail winds through dense forests and offers breathtaking views of the coast and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, hikers can visit several historic sites, including the Caoling Historic Fort and the Fugui Cape Lighthouse. The trail is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare birds and butterflies.

The Caoling Historic Trail is a great option for adventurous travelers who want to experience Taiwan's natural beauty and history. The trail is well-marked and can be completed in a day, but hikers should come prepared with proper gear and plenty of water.

Lanyu (Orchid Island)

Lanyu, also known as Orchid Island, is a small island off the southeast coast of Taiwan. The island is home to the Tao people, an indigenous group who have lived on the island for centuries. Lanyu is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique culture.

The Tao people have their own language, customs, and beliefs, and visitors to Lanyu can learn about their way of life by visiting the island's cultural center and museums. The island is also home to several Tao villages, where visitors can see traditional Tao homes and learn about the Tao's fishing and weaving techniques.

Lanyu's natural beauty is also a major draw for visitors. The island's beaches are pristine and offer great opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The island is also home to several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the sea and the island's lush forests.

Lanyu is not well-known to tourists, but it is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit. The island can be reached by plane or ferry from Taitung or Kenting.

Shifen Waterfall

Shifen Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in Pingxi, a small town in New Taipei City. The waterfall is 20 meters wide and 40 meters high, and is known for its picturesque setting amidst the lush forest. What makes Shifen Waterfall unique is that visitors can walk along a path that leads right behind the waterfall, allowing for a truly immersive experience.

The waterfall is surrounded by the Shifen Old Street, a lively street that is famous for its sky lanterns. Visitors can buy colorful lanterns, write their wishes on them, and release them into the sky. The sight of hundreds of lanterns floating up into the air is truly mesmerizing and has become an iconic image of Taiwan.

Shifen Waterfall is a popular spot for locals to visit on weekends, and visitors should be prepared for crowds. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the crowds are smaller and the light is perfect for photos.

Wulai

Wulai is a mountainous area located just south of Taipei. The area is known for its hot springs, indigenous culture, and stunning natural scenery. Visitors to Wulai can soak in the natural hot springs, explore the lush forests, and learn about the culture of the Atayal people, one of Taiwan's indigenous groups.

One of the highlights of Wulai is the Wulai Scenic Train, a narrow-gauge train that winds through the mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. The train passes over numerous bridges and through several tunnels, making for an exciting and scenic ride.

Wulai is also home to the Wulai Waterfall, a magnificent waterfall that drops 80 meters into the valley below. Visitors can hike to the base of the waterfall for a closer look, or view it from a distance from one of the many viewpoints.

Wulai is a popular weekend getaway for locals, but it's not well-known to tourists. Visitors to Wulai can experience Taiwan's natural beauty and indigenous culture in a way that is unique and authentic.

In conclusion, Taiwan is a country that is full of surprises and hidden gems. These five places are just a few examples of the many hidden treasures that can be found in Taiwan. By venturing off the beaten path and exploring these lesser-known destinations, visitors can experience Taiwan's rich history, culture, and natural beauty in a way that is truly unforgettable.