Tour Taiwan by Train

Arrive in Taipei, a city where centuries-old temples stand beside sleek skyscrapers and buzzing food markets. After settling in, enjoy time at leisure to explore.

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Spend the day exploring Taipei’s most iconic landmarks with a local guide. Visit Longshan Temple, the city’s spiritual heart, before moving on to the grand Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a symbol of modern Taiwan. Take in panoramic views from the observation deck of Taipei 101 and discover the world’s finest Chinese art collection at the National Palace Museum. The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace — perhaps sample street food at one of Taipei’s famous night markets or browse the city’s independent art spaces and design stores. (B)

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Board the local train to Ruifang and continue along the historic Pingxi line, a beautiful 8-mile route first built to transport coal. The journey passes through forested hills, valleys and waterfalls, with stops at small stations where life moves at a slower pace. Each village along the line has its own charm - from rustic teahouses to old mining streets. This is a chance to experience Taiwan’s countryside and a glimpse of its past. Continue onward to Yilan, a quiet coastal town known for its markets and mountain backdrop. In the evening, stroll through Luodong Night Market, where locals gather for regional snacks and freshly prepared seafood. (B)

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Begin the day with a hands-on experience at a tea farm that supplies the National Palace Museum. Learn about Taiwan’s tea-making traditions, from picking and drying to roasting and brewing your own leaves - a highlight for anyone curious about local culture. Visit the National Center of Traditional Arts, a riverside village where artisans create lacquerware, textiles and paper crafts. Stroll along the canals, browse small workshops or take a short boat ride through the complex. Travel onward along the coast, stopping briefly at the Qingshui Cliffs for sweeping views of the Pacific before arriving in Hualien, a relaxed gateway to eastern Taiwan’s natural beauty. (B)

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Travel south along the island’s dramatic east coast, where the road winds past rugged sea cliffs and fishing villages. Stop at scenic spots such as Sansientai, known for its arched bridge and volcanic rock formations, and Siaoyeliou, where wind and waves have shaped the coastline into surreal patterns. Continue to Chihpen, a peaceful hot spring resort surrounded by forested hills. The mineral-rich waters here have long been treasured for their restorative properties. Spend the afternoon unwinding in the natural hot springs or taking a walk through the surrounding trails as the sun sets over the valley. (B)

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Enjoy a relaxed morning before continuing by train across southern Taiwan toward Chiayi, the nearest gateway to the Alishan Mountains. This part of the journey reveals a changing landscape - from the tropical coast to rural plains and forested hills. Chiayi itself is a friendly city known for its street markets and laid-back atmosphere. It also serves as an important stop for travellers heading into the Alishan region. Spend the evening at leisure or sample local dishes such as turkey rice and savoury tofu, specialities that reflect Chiayi’s reputation for simple but excellent food. (B)

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Journey up into the Alishan Mountains on the historic Alishan Forest Railway, one of the world’s most scenic mountain rail routes. The narrow-gauge train climbs through mist-shrouded forests of cypress and pine, revealing a landscape of deep valleys and winding ridges. Weather conditions may occasionally require travel by road instead, but the views remain equally spectacular. Upon arrival, explore the Alishan Giant Tree area, where ancient trees have stood for centuries. The air here feels cool and fresh, and walking among the towering trunks offers a sense of stillness rarely found elsewhere. Overnight in Alishan. (B)

Note: We will do our best to secure seats on the Alishan Main Train; however, as bookings open only 14 days before travel and sell out within seconds, confirmation cannot be guaranteed.

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Rise early to witness one of Taiwan’s most memorable sights - the Alishan sunrise. Watching the first light spread over a sea of clouds is a moment of quiet beauty that captures why this mountain region is so loved by locals. After breakfast, travel onward to Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s most famous natural landmark. The lake is named for its distinct shape, with one side resembling the sun and the other the moon. Arrive in the evening and settle in for a two-night stay, surrounded by calm waters and forested hills. (B)

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Set out on a cruise to appreciate Sun Moon Lake’s serenity and its mountain-framed scenery. Visit Wen Wu Temple, a striking site that blends Confucian, Taoist and Buddhist elements, and walk along one of the lakeside trails where the views shift with every turn. The afternoon is free for your own explorations - hire a bike to cycle around the shoreline, take the cable car to the Formosa Aboriginal Culture Village, or simply relax by the lake. Sun Moon Lake captures the gentler rhythm of Taiwan, perfect for slowing down and taking in the view. (B)

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Visit Changhua Train Station, home to Taiwan’s historic railway roundhouse - a rare working relic of the steam era that train enthusiasts and history lovers will appreciate. Continue by train to Taichung, Taiwan’s creative hub. Here, sleek architecture, public art and leafy boulevards give the city a cosmopolitan energy. (B)

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Travel by high-speed train through Taiwan’s central plains, returning to Taipei. The journey is quick and comfortable, offering a glimpse of the island’s modern efficiency. Back in the capital, enjoy free time for last-minute shopping or revisiting favourite spots - perhaps a quiet teahouse in Dihua Street or one final night market feast. (B)

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Meet your driver for a private transfer to Taoyuan Airport for your onward flight. (B)