Taiwan is a beautiful island nation that attracts countless visitors each year. While some travelers prefer a deep dive into specific cities, others opt for a broader journey — and that’s where a well-planned Taiwan 5 Day Itinerary comes in.
This round-island route focuses on the best of central and southern Taiwan, offering a perfect balance of culture, scenery, and local flavor. If you’re looking for an efficient yet rewarding way to explore Taiwan, here’s a recommended 5-day tour that hits all the highlights.
Day 1: Departure from Taipei — Sun Moon Lake, Nantou (Ita Thao Pier — Cien Pagoda — Xuanzang Temple — Wenwu Temple)
Day 2: Departure from Sun Moon Lake, Nantou — Tainan (Anping Fort — Anping Old Street) — Kaohsiung (Fo Guang Shan)
Day 3: Departure from Kaohsiung — Kenting National Park (Cape Cat Cage — Eluanbi Lighthouse — Longpan Park — Sail Rock Small Beach) — Kaohsiung Hotel
Day 4: Departure from Kaohsiung — Tainan (Chimei Museum — Guohua Street — Chihkan Tower — Confucius Temple — Tainan Grand Matsu Temple)
Day 5: Departure from Tainan — Lugang — Taipei
The reason I highly recommend this package is its included chartered transportation service. While Taipei has a well-developed public transportation system making independent travel convenient, central and southern Taiwan do not have as extensive a transport network. Some rural areas are remote or require travel within scenic spots, making public transport less convenient. A self-driving tour or chartered vehicle is more suitable. One hassle of planning a trip is arranging transportation; relying on public transport means coordinating with schedules, which can be stressful. This tour package’s charter service takes care of all transport arrangements, matching our schedule perfectly, so there’s no need to rush for trains or buses.
Additionally, being unfamiliar with the area and language can make asking for directions difficult. Having a guide is incredibly convenient! For historical and cultural sites, a guide can provide detailed explanations, enhancing the understanding of their stories and cultural significance. Without a guide, relying solely on informational signs can be dull and insufficient. Local guides not only explain but also handle trip details, eliminating the need for us to worry. Plus, this package includes accommodation arrangements!
For travelers seeking a relaxed experience, this 5-day, 4-night round-island tour package includes the above itinerary and guided services, allowing us to enjoy Taiwan’s culture and scenery without spending much time arranging attractions, accommodation (5-star hotels), and transportation. (And the price of this package is unbelievably affordable…)
If you’re interested, check out the detailed introductions of these attractions!
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Table of Contents
Day 1: Sun Moon Lake Itinerary – Best Spots to Visit
Sun Moon Lake is Taiwan’s largest freshwater lake, divided by Lalu Island, with the eastern side resembling the sun and the western side resembling the moon, hence the name Sun Moon Lake. It is also the home of the indigenous Thao people, offering a chance to experience Taiwan’s cultural history. There are many famous attractions around Sun Moon Lake, and traveling by car is the most convenient way to explore them.
Ita Thao Pier & Local Market
This is a village of the Thao indigenous people, known for their singing and dancing skills. Now, it primarily focuses on tourism. The shopping streets near Ita Thao Pier feature various art shops, dining restaurants, and accommodation hotels, making it a must-visit destination for tourists coming to Sun Moon Lake.
Cien Pagoda Scenic Viewpoint
The Cien Pagoda was built by the late President Chiang Kai-shek of Taiwan in memory of his mother. It features traditional Chinese architectural style. The pagoda’s top has a 360-degree observation deck where visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of Sun Moon Lake, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.
Hsuan Tsang Temple Cultural Stop
Hsuan Tsang Temple was established to commemorate the renowned Buddhist figure Master Hsuan Tsang. It is a solemn and tranquil Buddhist temple, offering insights into Buddhist religious culture. The main hall of the temple houses a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and a collection of Buddhist scriptures for devotees to study. However, the most precious feature of the temple is the relics of Master Hsuan Tsang enshrined in the Hsuan Tsang Memorial Hall, which are considered priceless treasures by the faithful.
Wenwu Temple at the Lakeside
Wenwu Temple enshrines the deity Wen Chang Di Jun, who represents academic success, and Guan Sheng Di Jun, who symbolizes martial prowess. This grand and exquisitely decorated temple features intricate carvings on its archway and stele pavilion, reflecting a rich traditional cultural ambiance. If you wish to pray for academic and career success, visit the Wen Chang Hall. For courage, safety, and prosperity, head to the Guan Sheng Hall.
Day 2: Tainan & Kaohsiung Cultural Heritage Tour
Anping Fort & Anping Old Street (Tainan)
Anping Fort, originally known as “Fort Zeelandia,” was established during the Dutch colonial period and is one of Taiwan’s earliest castles. In addition to traditional Chinese elements, it features distinctive Dutch colonial architecture, including red bricks. The fort includes the original city walls, as well as watchtowers and city gates, which were used to monitor enemy movements rather than for sightseeing. Visitors can also explore the old cannon emplacements and museum.
After visiting the military site, you can stroll through Anping Old Street, located 500 meters from Anping Fort. Anping Old Street is one of Tainan’s oldest streets and was known as “Taiwan Street” during the Dutch colonial era. Today, it offers a variety of local delicacies such as Anping tofu pudding, shrimp crackers, fish skin vegetable, and preserved fruits. In addition, you can find traditional crafts like wood carvings, ceramics, and bamboo weaving. The street is lined with many historic buildings and shops, making it a perfect spot for visitors who appreciate a vintage atmosphere.
Fo Guang Shan Monastery (Kaohsiung)
Fo Guang Shan is one of Taiwan’s most renowned Buddhist holy sites and has a significant global influence. The extensive grounds and grand architectural complex are famous for the 48-meter-high statue of Shakyamuni Buddha (excluding the lotus base). This statue symbolizes the greatness of the Buddha’s teachings and his compassion for all beings. It is prominently placed at the top of Fo Guang Shan, visible from almost any angle, making it a spiritual beacon for both visitors and devotees.
In addition to the iconic Buddha statue, visitors can explore the main hall and meditation hall of Fo Guang Shan, which are key places for worship, meditation, and reflection. The Buddha Memorial Center is also a great place to view Buddhist artifacts and learn about the history and culture of Buddhism. If time allows, you can participate in activities such as tea meditation, copying sutras, or various festival celebrations held at Fo Guang Shan.
Regarding food, when thinking of Buddhism, vegetarian cuisine often comes to mind. Fo Guang Shan has several vegetarian restaurants offering a variety of fresh vegetables. The “Dripping Spring” restaurant in the Grand Hall is famous for dishes like “Emperor Bean Noodles” and “Jade Vegetable Rice.” For a more in-depth experience, the “Dripping Spring” in the camphor forest offers “Peace Porridge” made with ingredients like carrots, bok choy, mung beans, and fried dough sticks, as well as “Fo Guang Noodles,” which are soy milk-based noodle soups. Even if you’re not a fan of vegetarian food, I recommend trying Fo Guang Shan’s offerings!
When visiting Fo Guang Shan, it is advised to dress modestly and avoid wearing overly revealing clothing as a sign of respect for the religious site.
Day 3: Kenting National Park Day Trip from Tainan
Kenting National Park is renowned for its rich natural landscapes and ecological diversity, making it one of Taiwan’s most popular tourist destinations. The waters surrounding Kenting are crystal clear and minimally polluted, fostering a thriving coral reef and vibrant tropical fish. It has long been famous as a top diving spot. However, due to its popularity, the cost of diving and accommodation in Kenting is higher compared to other locations, which has recently caused some dissatisfaction among locals. (If diving is your main interest, you might consider Orchid Island as an alternative.)
Despite the higher costs, Kenting’s natural beauty remains an essential stop on a round-the-island tour. The terrain of Kenting mainly consists of low mountains and hilly plateaus. Moving away from the hilly areas and closer to the sea, you’ll find coral reef limestone plateaus, and further towards the ocean, there are winding coastlines, beaches, and bays.
Maobitou (Cat’s Nose) Coastal Views
Maobitou, which means “cat’s nose,” is a large rock formed from coral reefs that have been shaped by long-term sea erosion and weathering. The rock’s shape resembles a cat’s nose, which is how it got its name. Although I personally don’t think it looks much like a cat’s nose, the name is quite charming. The coastline around Maobitou is also made up of coral reefs, creating unique coastal features such as sea-eroded platforms, sea caves, and sea pillars. It’s definitely worth a visit for its distinctive geological formations.
Eluanbi Lighthouse & Park
Eluanbi Lighthouse is an iconic structure of Kenting National Park, built in 1883, and located at the southernmost tip of Taiwan. The lighthouse is a white, round stone tower standing approximately 18.3 meters tall, constructed from stones of various sizes. Its appearance is simple and rustic, and from here, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the Bashi Channel.
Longpan Grassland & Sea Cliff Trail
Longpan Park covers a vast area with spectacular scenery, divided into two main parts: “limestone terrain” and “grassland.” The limestone terrain has been shaped by long-term seawater erosion, resulting in unique geological formations such as sea-eroded platforms, sea caves, and sea stacks. The grassland area meets the coastline and features various native and endemic plants, with migratory birds often stopping here during their migration seasons.
The park has several trails equipped with informational signs, allowing visitors to enjoy nature while learning about the local geological history and ecological knowledge. Multiple observation platforms are available where visitors can overlook the Pacific Ocean and enjoy the sea views as well as the sunrise and sunset. There is also a camping area within the park.
Chuanfan Rock Small Beach
Chuanfan Rock is a massive coral reef rock shaped like a sailboat, but in addition to this rock, the beach here is even more beautiful.
Day 4: Tainan Historical Temples & Museums
Chimei Museum Art & Culture
Chimei Museum houses a vast collection of Western artifacts, covering a wide range of fields including sculptures, musical instruments, and weaponry. It is also a museum designed with Western classical aesthetics, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of its architecture.
The museum’s outdoor area features numerous sculptures inspired by Greek and Roman mythology, such as the significant landmark “Theseus Slaying the Minotaur” at the entrance, the Olympus Bridge with statues of the Twelve Olympian Gods, and the “Apollo Fountain,” a replica of the one at the Palace of Versailles.
Guohua Street Food & Shopping
To experience the everyday life of Taiwanese people and truly feel the local vibrancy, traditional alleys are the best places to visit. On Guohua Street, you’ll find a variety of delicious traditional foods. Among them, I highly recommend the “Wan Gua,” a Tainan specialty snack. The most famous Wan Gua on Guohua Street is from a place called Fushenghao(富盛號), so make sure not to miss it. Additionally, be sure to try the small squid(小卷) and sweet potato pastries(番薯椪), which are also must-try delicacies on Guohua Street.
Credit: Sinchen.Lin, CC BY 2.0
Chihkan Tower (Fort Provintia)
Chihkan Tower, originally named “Fort Provintia,” was constructed by the Dutch East India Company in 1653. It served as an administrative center and military fortress at that time, so some of the original architectural features of the fortifications are still visible. After the Dutch departed, Chihkan Tower gradually incorporated many traditional Chinese architectural elements, such as Chinese-style roof tiles and intricately carved beams.
Sacrificial Rites Martial Temple(Tainan Great Guandi Temple)
Also known as the Tainan Great Guandi Temple, this temple is dedicated to the famous ancient Chinese general, Guan Yu. Revered as the “Guangsheng Emperor,” Guan Yu is the main deity of this temple and is symbolized as an embodiment of integrity, bravery, and loyalty.
People come here to pray for courage and safety. Additionally, Guan Sheng Emperor is also one of the Gods of Wealth, symbolizing protection for one’s finances, which is why merchants also worship him. Besides Guan Sheng Emperor, the temple also honors his protectors, Prince Guanping and General Zhou Cang, as well as his steed, the Red Hare.
Tainan Grand Mazu Temple Pilgrimage Site
The Tainan Grand Mazu Temple, also known as the Prince Ning Jing‘s Mansion, is dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea. Mazu is believed to calm storms and foresee and prevent maritime disasters, making her the protector of sailors. As Taiwan is an island nation surrounded by the sea, it’s no wonder that Mazu worship is very popular in Taiwan. Additionally, people believe that Mazu can bless families with peace and help them overcome difficulties.
Day 5: Confucian Traditions & Lukang Old Town
Tainan Confucius Temple (First Academy in Taiwan)
The Tainan Confucius Temple, built in 1666, is the oldest existing Confucius Temple in Taiwan and has a history of over 300 years, holding significant historical and cultural importance. In its early days, the temple served as a school that nurtured many talents.
Today, it stands as a cultural heritage site preserving Confucian culture and artifacts. Additionally, it hosts regular ceremonies on important dates, including the Confucius Memorial Ceremony on the 27th day of the eighth lunar month, the spring and autumn sacrifices, and rituals on the first and fifteenth days of the lunar calendar.
Lukang Old Street & Traditional Crafts
Lukang is an ancient town that was once a bustling port. Therefore, it is not a single attraction but can be broadly divided into several areas.
The streets preserve old lanes (such as Nine Turns Lane or Old Street) made of red bricks and wood, giving off a very vintage feel. There is also the Guihua Lane Art Village, decorated with creative murals.
Many craft shops showcasing traditional craftsmanship are spread across Lukang. These crafts, including Buddha statue carving, bamboo weaving, and woodworking, are cultural treasures that have been preserved through successful integration into the cultural and creative industries in recent years. The most unique among them are Buddha statues made from tin. For more information on this, you can refer to these links:
In terms of architecture, you can visit the Folk Arts Museum, Yilou, Longshan Temple, and Tianhou Temple. Both Longshan Temple and Tianhou Temple are worth visiting for their religious significance. Yilou showcases traditional architectural styles, while the Folk Arts Museum, a European-style building, was once the residence of a wealthy local merchant.
Besides traditional handicrafts, Lukang also offers a variety of traditional delicacies, including cakes, noodles, and mien cha. Mien cha is a pasty dessert traditionally made with flour, lard, fried shallots, and sugar. However, due to modern health consciousness, it is now commonly made with sesame, almonds, and vegetable oil. The flour is roasted and then mixed with hot water in a 1:1 ratio to form a paste.
Is This 5-Day Taiwan Itinerary Right for You?
This travel route allows us to explore the famous attractions in the southern and central parts of Taiwan within five days. The most important thing is that transportation, accommodation, and information about the attractions are all prepared, so we only need to enjoy a relaxed and happy journey.
Although planning a travel route by yourself has its charm, I used to love spending a lot of time researching and planning routes during my university days. However, now that I’m lazier, I prefer a more relaxed way of traveling…
If you’re interested in this itinerary, feel free to click the button below for more information about accommodation!
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