The 5 Best Attractions in Taiwan
As a traveler, I assume you want to see the best tourist attractions in Taiwan, right? Let us assume logistics and time are not an issue. Then this is my top list of attractions in Taiwan.
I am sharing the best tourist attractions in Taiwan from my own experience over the past two years living in this amazing country. You will probably never be able to see them all in one Taiwan trip. Still, it is worth having a look, because all these locations are outstanding.
What Are the Main Attractions in Taiwan?
Originally, I wanted to write about the Top 10 Attractions in Taiwan. But in the end, I picked my five absolute favorites, starting with two incredible natural attractions:
- The Blue Diamonds on Kinmen Island
- Diving with Sea Turtles on Xiao Liuqiu (Lambai Island)
- Celebrating Lunar New Year in a Temple
- Joining the Dragon Boat Festival somewhere in Taiwan
- Catching the Beach Vibes in Kenting
I will explain why I consider these the best tourist attractions in Taiwan below. However, if you are looking for general Travel Tips for Taiwan, check out my other articles or my page about traveling in Taiwan.
My Top Tourist Attraction in Taiwan: The Blue Diamonds in Kinmen
At the very top of my list of the best attractions in Taiwan are the so-called Blue Diamonds. A natural phenomenon that makes the ocean light up at night, turning the sea a magical shade of blue. The sparkling light comes from marine microorganisms called dinoflagellates, which emit light as a defense mechanism. It’s also known as the “Sea of Stars”.
I concluded that this is a must-see natural attraction in Taiwan. Several beaches on Kinmen Island are great spots to witness this phenomenon, but only if the conditions are right. I go so far as to say that you find the best attractions in Taiwan on the island.
Catching the Blue Diamonds can be tricky. You need to be in Kinmen at the right time of year. Your best chance is during April, May, or June, on a moonless night near high tide. Ideally, you have a southerly wind.The conditions matter and there is no guarantee to see this sensation. I share all my tips on how to see the Blue Diamonds (also called Blue Tears) in my video about Kinmen’s beaches.
Bonus: In the same video, I also go out to collect my own seafood. Another popular activity in Kinmen, though it did not make it quite make it onto this list. If you want to learn more about Kinmen in general, I have put together a dedicated guide for you as well.
Another top Taiwan attraction: Diving with Sea Turtles on Xiao Liuqiu
Number two on my list of the best tourist attractions in Taiwan is Xiao Liuqiu, also known as Lamay Island or Lambai Island. In my opinion, one of the most unique natural attractions in Taiwan is snorkeling or scuba diving with sea turtles here. Yes, you can dive in other places like Green Island, but Xiao Liuqiu is the only place where you are almost guaranteed to see giant sea turtles.
There are estimated to be 800+ sea turtles living year-round around the island. I am not exactly sure why they are so easy to spot, but I assume it is because Xiao Liuqiu is naturally shielded from the harsh winter monsoons. This creates calm waters and excellent underwater visibility, making it one of the best diving spots in Taiwan.
The island is located just off Taiwan’s southwestern coast, and getting there takes a bit of effort. I traveled from Kaohsiung to a nearby harbor and then took a short ferry ride to the island. I stayed for a weekend, and I think that is a good time to see the small island.
Two Tips When Visiting this Taiwan tourist spot
- Never touch the animals, and be especially careful not to do so accidentally. As you see in the video, you can get really close to the turtles, so give them the space they need.
- Do not stay for too long. The island is small. One or two days are perfect to explore and enjoy everything without feeling rushed.
Lunar New Year in a Temple Can Be a Tourist Attraction in Taiwan
Every travel guide seems to say the same thing: “Avoid Taiwan during Lunar New Year.” Yes, it is true, the whole country is on the move, hotels are booked out, and transportation is packed. So why on earth am I putting this on my list of top tourist attractions in Taiwan? Let me explain.
I spent Chinese New Year in a temple in Daxi, and it was an unforgettable experience. It gave me an insight into Taiwanese customs and traditions. I understood why literally all people travel across the country to return home and visit temples.
Sure, spending hours in a crowded temple might feel a bit unusual at first. But even today, I really value the experience. It offered a new perspective I would not have gotten any other way. It will never be one of the most famous attractions in Taiwan. However, if you are in Taipei or another place in Taiwan during Chinese New Year, use the opportunity. Temples will be open.
For most foreign travelers, this is not a famous attraction, but if you happen to be in Taiwan during Chinese New Year, I highly recommend visiting a temple at least once. It is a good way to experience Taiwanese culture. The entrance is free, which helps offset the cost of your probably overpriced hotel room. Side note for all backpackers: Check out my blog post “Experience Taiwan on a Budget” for more tips on saving money while exploring the island.
Real Famous Attractions in Taiwan: Watch a Dragon Boat Race
Time to get back to one of the more famous attractions in Taiwan: the Dragon Boat Festival. It is easy to see why this one deserves a spot on the list: It is a national holiday and one of the most important cultural celebrations in Taiwan. The festival takes place every year on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar.
Of course, the dragon boat races are not organized as tourist attractions. They are a rooted tradition, but if you happen to be in Taiwan during this time, do not miss the chance to attend. I experienced the festival in Kinmen, and in my video, I talk about the history of the event and some of the key traditions, like eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and drinking realgar wine.
Now, I know it is unlikely that you will be in Kinmen during the Dragon Boat Festival, but no worries. The races in Taipei are much larger and feel more like a tourist attraction with big crowds, festive markets, and lots of opportunities to learn about the culture.
A Top Tourist Attraction For Taiwan Travelers: The Beach Vibes in Kenting
Last, but definitely not least, I always recommend Kenting to anyone traveling in Taiwan. It is a beach paradise with laid-back parties, cool snorkeling spots, and the beautiful Kenting National Park, which offers plenty of natural highlights beyond the sand.
Kenting is probably the most popular destination on this list. Southern Taiwan’s beaches are famous for good reason: Surfing, Diving in the coral reefs, and in summer the water activities are a lifesaver in Taiwan’s hottest region. My top pick? Snorkeling! the best way to appreciate Kenting’s underwater scenery.
I have to confess my last trip was over a year ago, mainly because working in Taiwan leaves me with limited PTO. And yes, the high-speed rail ends in Kaohsiung, so getting to Taiwan’s southern tip always takes a little extra time.
Summary of My Top Tourist Attractions in Taiwan
This list is meant to be the most practical itinerary; it s a collection of my personal favorites. I am glad my travel vlog lets me preserve these memories and share them with you. For more stories and tips, check out the Traveling Kunz YouTube channel, follow me on Facebook, or dive into my other Taiwan blog posts.
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