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Two-Week Taiwan City and Coast Itinerary

Dates are flexible. This day-by-day plan is provisional until you choose exact travel dates.

Day 1
Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei arrival

  1. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport — Taoyuan; allow 1.5–2.5 hours for immigration, luggage, and airport transfer, then check in.
  2. Taipei 101 Observatory — Xinyi; enjoy sunset or evening city views, ~1.5 hours, subject to ticket availability.
  3. Raohe Street Night Market — Songshan; sample pepper buns, grilled seafood, and desserts, ~2 hours; budget NT$300–600 per person.

Arrival and Check-in

Allow 1.5–2.5 hours at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport for immigration, baggage collection, an EasyCard purchase, and reaching Taipei. The Airport MRT is the easiest option: the express train takes about 35–40 minutes to Taipei Main Station, with trains roughly every 15 minutes; budget around NT$150, plus a short taxi or MRT connection to your hotel. A taxi directly into central Taipei usually takes 45–75 minutes depending on traffic and costs roughly NT$1,200–1,500. After checking in, keep the afternoon light and allow time to shower, reset, and collect your prebooked Taipei 101 Observatory tickets if required.

Evening Views

Head to Taipei 101 Observatory in Xinyi for the city panorama, ideally arriving 30–45 minutes before sunset if ticket availability lines up. The visit takes about 1.5 hours, and online advance booking is sensible for sunset periods; entry is generally around NT$600, though prices and timed-entry rules can change. From most central hotels, take the MRT to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station or Xinyi Anhe Station, then walk 5–10 minutes. If jet lag or immigration delays push you past sunset, the nighttime skyline is still worthwhile—just avoid treating a specific entry time as guaranteed until your ticket is confirmed.

Night Market Dinner

Afterward, take the MRT to Raohe Street Night Market in Songshan, usually about 20–30 minutes from Taipei 101 with one transfer. Enter near Songshan Ciyou Temple and work east along the market rather than stopping at the first stall: try the famous pepper buns, grilled seafood, herbal pork rib soup, and a chilled dessert. Budget NT$300–600 per person for a generous tasting-style dinner. The market generally operates from late afternoon until around 10:00–11:00pm, but individual stalls vary, so arriving before 9:30pm gives you the best selection. Bring cash and expect a lively, shoulder-to-shoulder walk; after eating, return by MRT or use a taxi if you are tired from the flight.

Day 2
Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei exploration

  1. National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall — Zhongzheng; see the memorial plaza and changing-of-the-guard ceremony, morning, ~1.5 hours.
  2. Yongkang Street — Da’an; have lunch and browse independent shops, ~1.5 hours; budget NT$250–500.
  3. National Palace Museum — Shilin; explore its renowned Chinese art collection, afternoon, ~2.5–3 hours.
  4. Shilin Night Market — Shilin; enjoy an informal street-food dinner, evening, ~2 hours; budget NT$300–600.

Morning

Start at National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall around 9:00am, when the broad plaza is quieter and the light is pleasant for photographs. Allow about 1½ hours for the memorial building, surrounding gardens, and the ceremonial changing of the guard. The ceremony is generally held hourly during daytime visitor hours, but schedules can change, so check locally before timing your visit around it. Admission to the grounds and main hall is typically free. From Taipei’s central areas, take the MRT to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station; use the station exits signposted for the memorial rather than walking along the busy arterial roads.

Lunch and Afternoon

Walk or take a short taxi ride to Yongkang Street for lunch and a relaxed browse through its small shops and cafés. Set aside about NT$250–500 per person: this is a good area for beef noodles, dumplings, scallion pancakes, or a simple set meal, with plenty of dessert and tea options afterward. The neighborhood is compact, so leave room to wander down its side lanes rather than trying to fit in another attraction. After lunch, take the MRT from Dongmen Station toward Shilin, then continue by taxi or bus to the National Palace Museum; allow roughly 40–50 minutes door to door, including the transfer and a little waiting time.

Spend 2½–3 hours inside the National Palace Museum, focusing on a manageable selection rather than trying to see everything. Its collection is extensive, and popular galleries can become crowded later in the day. General admission is commonly around NT$350, though exhibitions and policies can change; check the official site for current hours, ticketing, and any advance-entry requirements. The museum is normally closed on Mondays, so keep the day flexible until you confirm the opening schedule for your eventual travel dates. Buses from Shilin Station are inexpensive, while a taxi is more convenient after a full morning.

Evening

Finish at Shilin Night Market, reached by taxi or bus from the museum in about 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. Arrive around 6:00pm, before the busiest crush, and spend about two hours grazing rather than ordering one large meal: try pepper buns, oyster omelets, fried chicken, grilled seafood, and shaved ice as you explore the lanes around Jiantan Station. Budget roughly NT$300–600, depending on how much you sample. The market’s food stalls are informal—carry small cash, expect limited seating, and keep valuables secure in the crowds. Take the MRT from Jiantan Station when you are ready to return; it is usually faster and less stressful than finding a taxi at closing time.

Day 3
Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei neighborhoods

  1. Longshan Temple — Wanhua; experience one of Taipei’s most atmospheric temples, morning, ~1 hour.
  2. Bopiliao Historical Block — Wanhua; walk preserved Qing-era streets and exhibition spaces, ~1 hour.
  3. Dihua Street — Datong; browse tea, dried-goods, fabric, and traditional stores, late morning, ~2 hours.
  4. Taipei Fine Arts Museum — Zhongshan; see contemporary and modern Taiwanese art, afternoon, ~2 hours.
  5. Maji Square — Zhongshan; eat at the market-style food hall, evening, ~1.5 hours; budget NT$300–600.

Morning

Begin at Longshan Temple in Wanhua around 8:30–9:00am, when incense smoke, chanting, and local worshippers make the complex especially atmospheric. Allow about an hour, and keep your voice low around the main halls; entrance is free, though small donations are welcome. From here, walk roughly five minutes to Bopiliao Historical Block, where red-brick arcades and preserved Qing- and Japanese-era buildings offer a quieter look at old Wanhua. The exhibition spaces generally open later in the morning, so treat the hour here as a streetscape walk first and check individual galleries on arrival.

Late Morning and Lunch

Take the MRT from Longshan Temple Station to Beimen Station—about 15 minutes including the transfer and walk—and continue into Dihua Street in Datong. Give yourself around two hours to browse tea shops, dried seafood and fruit stores, fabric merchants, and traditional medicine shops; side lanes near Dadaocheng Wharf are worth exploring if the main street feels busy. For lunch, stop at Yongle Market or choose a small noodle, rice, or oyster-omelet shop along the surrounding lanes, budgeting roughly NT$150–300. Shops vary considerably by day, so keep this portion flexible rather than planning around one specific storefront.

Afternoon and Evening

From Dihua Street, take the MRT or a short taxi to Taipei Fine Arts Museum in Zhongshan—allow about 20–30 minutes by public transport, or 10–15 minutes by taxi depending on traffic. Spend around two hours with the modern and contemporary Taiwanese collections; galleries commonly close on Mondays, and temporary exhibitions may require a separate ticket, so check the museum’s current schedule before setting out. Finish at Maji Square, a short walk from the museum, for an easy dinner among market-style stalls and casual restaurants. Plan on NT$300–600 per person, and arrive before the evening rush if you want the widest food choice; the nearby Taipei Expo Park is pleasant for a post-dinner stroll.

Day 4
Yilan City, Taiwan

Yilan coast

Getting there from Taipei, Taiwan
TRA Taroko/Puyuma express from Taipei Main Station (about 1h40m, NT$218–250). Book via Taiwan Railway online or the Taiwan Railways app; depart around 7:00–8:00am.
Kamalan bus from Taipei Bus Station (about 1h20m–2h, NT$140–160), useful if trains are sold out.
  1. Taipei–Yilan train — Taipei to Yilan; depart early and allow roughly 1.5–2.5 hours door-to-door, including station access, luggage, and check-in.
  2. Jimmy Park — Yilan City; see playful public art near the station, late morning, ~45 minutes.
  3. National Center for Traditional Arts — Wujie; explore craft demonstrations, historic-style streets, and performances, afternoon, ~3 hours.
  4. Luodong Forestry Culture Park — Luodong; stroll former logging-railway grounds and wetlands, late afternoon, ~1.5 hours.
  5. Luodong Night Market — Luodong; try local snacks such as scallion pancakes and mutton soup, evening, ~2 hours; budget NT$250–500.

Morning

Take an early TRA Taroko or Puyuma express from Taipei Main Station to Yilan Station, allowing roughly 1½–2½ hours door-to-door for getting to the station, finding your platform, the train, and checking into your Yilan accommodation. A 7:00–8:00am departure leaves you enough time to enjoy the city rather than simply pass through it. Reserve seats through Taiwan Railway or its app; if trains are full, the Kamalan bus from Taipei Bus Station is a practical alternative, though traffic can make its arrival less predictable.

After dropping luggage, walk about 10 minutes from Yilan Station to Jimmy Park, a compact, whimsical collection of colorful installations inspired by illustrator Jimmy Liao. Forty-five minutes is enough for the main sculptures and photographs. Keep this stop light rather than treating it as a major museum—the appeal is the playful outdoor art and the easy stroll through the station area. For lunch, consider Luna Digital Museum’s nearby café area or a simple bowl at a local noodle shop around Yilan Old Street before continuing south.

Afternoon

From central Yilan, take a taxi to the National Center for Traditional Arts in Wujie—usually around 25–35 minutes, depending on traffic—or use a local bus if you are traveling light. Set aside about three hours for the riverside complex: browse craft workshops, watch artisans at work, and wander the historic-style lanes lined with shops selling paper goods, ceramics, woodwork, and Taiwanese sweets. Performances and demonstrations vary by day, so check the official schedule before visiting; admission is commonly around NT$150, with some activities priced separately. The grounds are spread out and exposed, so bring sun protection and allow extra time if you want to join a hands-on craft experience.

Evening

Continue by taxi to Luodong Forestry Culture Park, roughly 20–25 minutes away. The former logging-railway grounds are particularly pleasant in the late afternoon, when the light softens over the ponds, old timber facilities, and wetlands. Allow about 1½ hours for an unhurried loop; entry to the park is generally free, though some indoor exhibits may have separate hours or fees. Finish at Luodong Night Market, a short taxi ride or 15–20-minute walk away, and spend the evening grazing rather than ordering one large meal. Try a crisp Yilan scallion pancake, mutton soup, grilled snacks, and local desserts; budget about NT$250–500 per person. The market is typically liveliest from early evening onward, but individual stalls open and close independently, so keep the schedule flexible.

Day 5
Hualien City, Taiwan

Hualien gateway

Getting there from Yilan City, Taiwan
TRA Taroko/Puyuma express (about 1h40m–2h, NT$250–300). Reserve ahead via Taiwan Railway; depart in the morning to preserve the afternoon.
Regular TRA train (about 2h15m–3h, roughly NT$200–250), cheaper but slower.
  1. Yilan–Hualien train — Yilan to Hualien; allow roughly 2.5–3.5 hours door-to-door and reserve seats in advance when possible.
  2. Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park — Hualien City; visit converted warehouses, galleries, and small shops, afternoon, ~1.5 hours.
  3. Pine Garden — Hualien City; enjoy hillside views and a quiet historic garden, ~1 hour.
  4. Qixingtan Beach — Xincheng; walk the broad Pacific shoreline and pebble beach, late afternoon, ~1.5 hours.
  5. Dongdamen Night Market — Hualien City; sample regional street food, evening, ~2 hours; budget NT$300–600.

Morning and Arrival in Hualien

Take a morning TRA Taroko or Puyuma express from Yilan Station to Hualien Station, allowing roughly 2½–3½ hours door-to-door for reaching the station, the train journey, and checking into your accommodation. Reserve seats through Taiwan Railway in advance when possible, especially on weekends and holidays; the faster trains usually cost about NT$250–300. After dropping your bags, have a quick lunch near Hualien Station or take a taxi into the center before beginning the afternoon. Taxis are the most practical way to link today’s spread-out stops; expect roughly NT$150–250 per short city ride.

Afternoon: Creative Hualien and Pine Garden

Start at Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park, a group of converted warehouses near the city center. Spend about 1½ hours browsing rotating exhibitions, independent design shops, craft goods, and small cafés. Opening hours vary by gallery, and some spaces may close on Mondays, so treat the visit as a flexible stop rather than depending on one specific exhibition. From there, a 10-minute taxi ride—or around 25 minutes on foot—takes you uphill to Pine Garden. The former Japanese military compound is compact and peaceful, with shaded paths and broad views toward the coast; allow about an hour. Wear shoes with decent grip, as the garden’s slopes can be uneven, and check the site’s current admission and opening arrangements before setting out.

Late Afternoon and Evening

Continue by taxi to Qixingtan Beach, about 15–20 minutes north of central Hualien, arriving in the late afternoon when the Pacific light softens. This is a pebble beach rather than a swimming beach, so bring sturdy footwear and avoid entering the water, where currents can be hazardous. Walk the shoreline for about 1½ hours, then return to the city by taxi; arrange a pickup in advance if you are visiting outside the busiest hours, as passing taxis can be less frequent. Finish at Dongdamen Night Market, generally lively from late afternoon into the evening, for two relaxed hours of grilled seafood, scallion pancakes, pepper buns, mochi, and Indigenous-inspired dishes. Budget NT$300–600, and carry cash; stalls and opening days can vary.

Day 6
Xincheng, Taiwan

Taroko area

Getting there from Hualien City, Taiwan
Local TRA train to Xincheng (Taroko) Station (about 15–25m, NT$15–30). Buy through Taiwan Railway; depart early, ideally before 8:00am, for the visitor center and gorge access.
  1. Taroko National Park Visitor Center — Xincheng; check current road and trail conditions before entering the gorge, morning, ~45 minutes.
  2. Shakadang Trail — Taroko; hike only the sections officially open, allowing ~2–3 hours; access is subject to post-earthquake restrictions.
  3. Changchun Shrine — Taroko; view the waterfall shrine if the road and trail are open, ~1 hour.
  4. Buluowan Terrace — Taroko; see mountain scenery and indigenous cultural displays, ~1 hour.
  5. Xincheng Old Street — Xincheng; have a simple local dinner near the station, evening, ~1.5 hours; budget NT$250–500.

Morning

Take an early local train from Hualien to Xincheng (Taroko) Station, then continue by taxi or a prearranged driver into the park; allow roughly 30–45 minutes from the station to the Taroko National Park Visitor Center. Start here for about 45 minutes to check the latest road, shuttle, and trail notices. Conditions around the gorge can change quickly after the earthquake, and access may be limited even when a trail appears open online. Ask staff specifically about today’s permitted sections of Shakadang Trail and whether the approach to Changchun Shrine is operating.

If Shakadang Trail is open, allow two to three hours and hike only as far as officially permitted. Bring water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes—there may be uneven surfaces, rockfall controls, or turnarounds rather than a continuous route. Arrange a driver or taxi for the park, since public transport is infrequent and waiting for a return vehicle can consume much of the day. Afterward, continue to Changchun Shrine for about an hour if both the road and trail are open; otherwise, treat this as a flexible scenic stop rather than trying to force access.

Afternoon Exploring

Continue uphill to Buluowan Terrace, allowing about an hour for the mountain views and indigenous cultural displays. The drive is scenic but winding, so budget extra time for traffic controls and scheduled road closures. There are limited food options inside the park, so carry a snack from Xincheng or Hualien; a light lunch break at the terrace or near the visitor center is more practical than relying on a full restaurant. If any of the gorge sites are closed, spend longer at the terrace and return early to Xincheng rather than entering restricted areas.

Evening

Finish at Xincheng Old Street, where the atmosphere is quiet and local rather than nightlife-oriented. Walk around the older shopfronts near the station, then choose a simple noodle shop, dumpling restaurant, or bento counter for dinner; budget about NT$250–500 per person. Many small businesses close early or have irregular hours, so arrive before 7:00pm and keep a backup option in mind. An evening train can return you to Hualien, but check the final departures in advance—or stay in Xincheng if your accommodation and next morning’s plans make that easier.

Day 7
Taitung City, Taiwan

Taitung coast

Getting there from Xincheng, Taiwan
Taxi/private transfer to Hualien Station, then TRA train south to Taitung (roughly 4–5h total, NT$500–800 including the short taxi). Book trains on Taiwan Railway; take an early departure.
Taxi from Xincheng to Taitung (about 3.5–4.5h, approximately NT$4,000–6,000), practical for 3–4 travelers with luggage.
  1. Hualien–Taitung train — Hualien to Taitung; allow roughly 4–5 hours door-to-door, including station access and arrival transfer.
  2. Taitung Forest Park — Taitung City; cycle or walk through coastal wetlands and woodland, afternoon, ~2 hours.
  3. Taitung Seashore Park — Taitung City; watch the Pacific sunset from the shoreline, ~1 hour.
  4. Tiehua Music Village — Taitung City; browse craft stalls and hear live music, evening, ~2 hours.
  5. Taitung Railway Art Village — Taitung City; see repurposed railway buildings near the night market, ~1 hour; budget NT$300–600 for dinner nearby.

Morning and Arrival in Taitung

Allow roughly 4–5 hours door-to-door from Xincheng to your Taitung accommodation, including the transfer to Hualien Station, the TRA journey, and collecting luggage at the other end. An early departure is important today: after checking in or leaving bags at your hotel, have a quick lunch near the station rather than trying to fit in a full sit-down meal. Taitung Station is outside the central area, so use a taxi for the final 10–15 minutes; buses are cheaper but less convenient with luggage. Expect about NT$150–250 for the station-to-city taxi, depending on traffic and destination.

Afternoon Outdoors

Rent a bicycle near your accommodation or take a short taxi ride to Taitung Forest Park, locally known as “Black Forest.” Give yourself about two hours to follow the easy paths through coastal woodland, ponds, and wetlands; the park is much more enjoyable by bike than on foot. Entrance is usually around NT$30, with bicycle rental commonly costing roughly NT$100–200. Bring water and mosquito repellent, particularly after rain. From the park, continue south toward Taitung Seashore Park—walking takes around 25–35 minutes, while a taxi is quicker and inexpensive. Spend about an hour along the broad Pacific-facing shoreline; sunset is the best time, when the ocean breeze takes the edge off the heat.

Evening in the Railway District

A short taxi ride or 15–20-minute walk inland brings you to Tiehua Music Village, a relaxed evening spot of small craft stalls, food vendors, and occasional live performances. Programming and stall numbers vary by night, so treat the music as a pleasant possibility rather than a guaranteed concert. After browsing, walk toward Taitung Railway Art Village, where former railway buildings and landscaped spaces are illuminated after dark. Allow about an hour here, then have dinner nearby around Zhengqi Road or the adjacent night-market area; budget NT$300–600 per person for a casual meal. Keep some cash with you, and check the latest opening times because individual vendors and performances are often schedule-dependent.

Day 8
Hengchun, Taiwan

Kenting peninsula

Getting there from Taitung City, Taiwan
Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Kenting Express (route 9188) from Taitung Bus Station, usually via Fangshan (about 4–5h, roughly NT$400–600). Check and reserve where available through Taiwan Tourist Shuttle; depart early.
Private transfer/taxi (about 3.5–4h, NT$4,000–6,000), worthwhile for groups and direct hotel drop-off.
  1. Taitung–Kenting transfer — Taitung to Hengchun; arrange a bus or private transfer and allow roughly 3.5–5 hours door-to-door.
  2. Hengchun Old Town South Gate — Hengchun; walk the historic walled-town center, afternoon, ~1 hour.
  3. Hengchun Old Town — Hengchun; explore traditional streets and snack shops, ~1.5 hours.
  4. Kenting Night Market — Kenting; eat grilled seafood, sausages, fruit, and shaved ice, evening, ~2 hours; budget NT$300–700.

Morning and Transfer to Hengchun

Leave Taitung early for Hengchun, allowing roughly 3.5–5 hours door-to-door. The Kenting Express 9188 is the budget option, but check the current timetable and operating pattern before setting out; services can be infrequent. A private transfer takes about 3.5–4 hours and costs approximately NT$4,000–6,000, often worthwhile if you have luggage or are traveling as a small group. Bring water and a snack—the coastal road is scenic, but there are stretches with limited convenient stops. After arriving, leave your bags at your accommodation or use its luggage-storage service.

Afternoon in Hengchun Old Town

Walk first to Hengchun Old Town South Gate, one of the best-preserved remnants of the historic walled settlement. Spend about an hour looking at the gate, nearby walls, and the slower rhythm of central Hengchun; the area is most comfortable in the later afternoon, when the heat begins to ease. Continue through the surrounding traditional streets for another 1½ hours, browsing small snack shops and local storefronts rather than trying to cover every lane. Look for regional bites such as Hengchun onion pancakes, mung-bean noodles, and simple shaved-ice shops—this is a good place to have a light meal before the evening market. Most independent shops have their own hours and may close between lunch and dinner, so treat the walk as a flexible wander rather than a shopping itinerary.

Evening at Kenting Night Market

Take a local bus or taxi from Hengchun toward Kenting Night Market on Kenting Road; allow around 20–30 minutes, with traffic often heavier after sunset. The market usually gets lively from early evening, though individual stalls vary by day and weather. Plan roughly two hours for grilled seafood, sausages, fruit, and shaved ice, budgeting NT$300–700 per person depending on seafood choices. Cash is essential, and it is better to share several small portions than commit to one large plate. Return by bus if the final service suits your plans; otherwise, arrange a taxi through your accommodation, as late-night transport between Kenting and Hengchun can be less convenient than expected.

Day 9
Hengchun, Taiwan

Kenting beaches

  1. Longpan Park — East Kenting; enjoy dramatic grassland and ocean views, morning, ~1 hour.
  2. Eluanbi Park — Eluanbi; visit the lighthouse and coastal trails, late morning, ~2 hours.
  3. Sail Rock — Kenting; stop for a short beach and viewpoint break, early afternoon, ~45 minutes.
  4. Baisha Beach — West Hengchun Peninsula; swim or relax on the quieter sand, afternoon, ~2 hours.
  5. Houbihu Fishing Harbor — Houbihu; eat fresh seafood near the harbor, evening, ~1.5 hours; budget NT$500–1,000 per person.

Morning

Start around 8:00am with a taxi, scooter, or prearranged driver to Longpan Park on Kenting’s east coast. The drive from central Hengchun takes roughly 25–35 minutes; scooters are flexible, but the coastal road can be windy and exposed, so a car is more comfortable. Give yourself about an hour on the grassland trails for the broad Pacific views and low scrub shaped by the monsoon. There is little shade, so bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Continue south to Eluanbi Park, another 10–15 minutes away, and allow around two hours for the lighthouse area and coastal paths. The park generally opens during daylight hours, with a small admission fee often around NT$60; check the current hours before leaving, especially outside peak season.

Afternoon

After Eluanbi Park, head back west along the coastal road to Sail Rock, about 15 minutes by car or scooter. This makes an easy 45-minute pause for photographs, a quick look at the beach, and a drink from one of the roadside vendors. Continue toward the quieter west side of the peninsula and Baisha Beach, allowing roughly 30–40 minutes for the drive. Spend the afternoon here rather than trying to add another attraction: the sand is more relaxed than Kenting’s main beach, and it is a good place to swim or simply sit by the water for a couple of hours. Check conditions before entering—the sea can be rough, and lifeguard coverage is not guaranteed at all times. If you are riding, allow extra time for the return journey and avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach.

Evening

Finish at Houbihu Fishing Harbor, about 20–25 minutes from Baisha Beach and roughly 25–35 minutes from Hengchun by car. Aim to arrive around 5:30–6:00pm, when the harbor is lively but before popular seafood counters become busiest. Look for simple local seafood restaurants around the harbor and order whatever is freshest—oysters, sashimi, grilled fish, or seasonal shellfish—budgeting NT$500–1,000 per person. Menus and portions vary, so confirm the price for larger fish or market-selected seafood before ordering. After dinner, return to Hengchun by taxi or your hired driver; scooters are possible, but the unlit coastal roads and evening traffic make a car the safer choice.

Day 10
Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Kaohsiung waterfront

Getting there from Hengchun, Taiwan
Kenting Express/9188 or Pingtung Bus from Hengchun to Zuoying or Kaohsiung Station (about 3–4h, NT$400–500). Check Taiwan Tourist Shuttle or Pingtung Bus; leave in the morning.
Private transfer (about 2.5–3h, NT$3,500–5,000), faster and more convenient with luggage.
  1. Kenting–Kaohsiung transfer — Hengchun to Kaohsiung; allow roughly 3–4 hours by bus or private transfer, including hotel check-in.
  2. Pier-2 Art Center — Yancheng; explore large-scale installations in converted warehouses, afternoon, ~2 hours.
  3. Kaohsiung Music Center — Love River waterfront; walk the illuminated harbor promenade, sunset, ~1 hour.
  4. Love River — Yancheng; take an evening riverside stroll or short cruise, ~1 hour.
  5. Liuhe Tourist Night Market — Sinsing; dine on seafood and tropical fruit, evening, ~2 hours; budget NT$300–700.

Morning — Transfer from Hengchun to Kaohsiung

Leave Hengchun in the morning, ideally around 8:00–9:00am, for the 3–4-hour journey to Kaohsiung. The Kenting Express 9188 or a Pingtung Bus is the economical choice; a private transfer is worth considering if you have bulky luggage or want to preserve more of the afternoon. Timetables can be spaced out, so check the current service before leaving and allow time at the Kaohsiung end to reach your hotel, leave bags, and have lunch. Budget about NT$400–500 by bus, or roughly NT$3,500–5,000 for a private car.

Afternoon — Pier-2 Art Center

After checking in, head to Pier-2 Art Center in Yancheng. From Kaohsiung Station, take the MRT Red Line to Formosa Boulevard, change to the Orange Line, and get off at Yanchengpu; the ride is about 15–20 minutes, followed by a short walk. Spend around two hours wandering through the converted warehouses and outdoor installations—this is best enjoyed without a strict route, since murals, design shops, and temporary exhibitions are scattered across the district. Most outdoor areas are free, while individual indoor exhibitions commonly cost around NT$50–200 and may have varying hours.

Sunset and Evening — Waterfront to Liuhe Tourist Night Market

Walk south toward the Kaohsiung Music Center as the light softens, roughly 15 minutes along the harbor. Allow about an hour for the illuminated waterfront promenade and the distinctive wave-shaped buildings; the atmosphere becomes especially pleasant around sunset, when local families and cyclists arrive. Continue toward Love River for a relaxed riverside stroll or a short cruise—boat availability and prices vary, so treat the cruise as optional rather than something to reserve in advance. From the riverfront, take the MRT or a taxi to Liuhe Tourist Night Market in Sinsing for dinner. Allow about two hours and NT$300–700 for grilled seafood, papaya milk, tropical fruit, and small plates; walk through the market before choosing a stall, as prices and portion sizes vary.

Day 11
Tainan, Taiwan

Tainan heritage district

Getting there from Kaohsiung, Taiwan
TRA local or express train from Kaohsiung Station to Tainan Station (about 35–50m, NT$68–106). Buy via Taiwan Railway; morning departure is best.
HSR from Zuoying to HSR Tainan (about 15m, NT$140), but the station is outside central Tainan and requires a local connection.
  1. Kaohsiung–Tainan train — Kaohsiung to Tainan; allow roughly 1.5–2 hours door-to-door, including station access and check-in.
  2. Chihkan Tower — West Central District; explore Tainan’s best-known Dutch-period site, morning, ~1.5 hours.
  3. Shennong Street — West Central District; browse restored historic storefronts and boutiques, ~1 hour.
  4. Hayashi Department Store — West Central District; see a preserved Japanese-era department store, ~1 hour.
  5. Garden Night Market — North District; try Tainan specialties and street snacks, evening, ~2 hours; budget NT$300–600.

Morning

Take a morning TRA train from Kaohsiung Station to Tainan Station, allowing roughly 1½–2 hours door-to-door for getting to the station, the 35–50-minute ride, and leaving luggage at your accommodation. From Tainan Station, take a taxi or local bus toward the West Central District; the central sights are walkable once you arrive. Start at Chihkan Tower, opening hours and admission details permitting, and allow about 1½ hours for the red-brick courtyards, stone tablets, and layered Dutch, Qing, and Japanese history. Go early if possible—the grounds become noticeably hotter and busier later in the day. Admission is usually inexpensive, around NT$50, but check the current schedule before setting out.

Afternoon

Walk roughly 10–15 minutes through the old lanes to Shennong Street, where restored wooden shopfronts now hold small galleries, tea shops, ceramics studios, and cafés. Give yourself an hour to browse rather than rushing from storefront to storefront; some independent businesses open late or close on irregular weekdays. Continue south toward Hayashi Department Store, a preserved Japanese-era building with period details, small design and food shops, and a rooftop shrine. Allow about an hour here. For lunch or a snack between stops, look for a neighborhood noodle shop or try Tainan-style milkfish, beef soup, or danzai noodles—portions are generally modest, so ordering two small dishes is often better than committing to one large meal.

Evening

After a rest at your hotel, head by taxi or local bus to Garden Night Market in the North District, allowing about 20–30 minutes from central Tainan depending on traffic. It is generally busiest in the evening and its operating days can vary, so verify that it is open before making the trip. Spend around two hours grazing through the stalls: try grilled seafood, pepper buns, fried chicken, oyster omelet, and local fruit drinks, budgeting roughly NT$300–600 per person. Bring cash, expect crowds, and keep your belongings secure in the densest lanes; a taxi back to the West Central District is the simplest option after dinner.

Day 12
Chiayi City, Taiwan

Chiayi gateway

Getting there from Tainan, Taiwan
TRA train from Tainan Station to Chiayi Station (about 45m–1h10m, NT$90–140). Book via Taiwan Railway; depart around 8:00am.
  1. Tainan–Chiayi train — Tainan to Chiayi; allow roughly 1.5–2 hours door-to-door, including station access and hotel drop-off.
  2. Hinoki Village — East District; walk Japanese-era forestry dormitories and design shops, late morning, ~1.5 hours.
  3. Alishan Forest Railway Garage Park — East District; see historic locomotives and railway exhibits, ~1 hour.
  4. Chiayi Art Museum — West District; visit a renovated Japanese-era building and rotating exhibitions, afternoon, ~1.5 hours.
  5. Wenhua Road Night Market — West District; eat turkey rice, oyster omelets, and desserts, evening, ~2 hours; budget NT$250–500.

Morning

Take a morning TRA train from Tainan Station to Chiayi Station, allowing about 1½–2 hours door-to-door for reaching the station, the 45–70-minute ride, and dropping bags at your accommodation. After arriving, take a taxi to Hinoki Village in the East District—roughly 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Spend about 1½ hours wandering the restored Japanese-era forestry dormitories; the small design shops and timber buildings are best enjoyed slowly rather than as a checklist. Most shops generally open from late morning, so opening times can vary, particularly on weekdays. From here, it is a short walk to Alishan Forest Railway Garage Park, where historic locomotives and railway exhibits give useful context for the mountain railway. Allow about an hour; check the current opening schedule before relying on indoor displays.

Afternoon and Evening

Take a taxi from the East District to Chiayi Art Museum in the West District—usually around 10–15 minutes. The museum occupies a beautifully adapted Japanese-era building and its rotating exhibitions make it a good, unhurried afternoon stop; allow about 1½ hours and confirm the day’s opening hours, since museums in Taiwan commonly close one weekday each week. Afterward, settle into the area around Wenhua Road Night Market, arriving as stalls begin to come alive in the early evening. Spend roughly two hours grazing rather than ordering one large meal: try Chiayi turkey rice, an oyster omelet, and a shaved-ice or sweet dessert, budgeting NT$250–500. The market is compact and easy to explore on foot, but keep valuables close in the busiest stretches; if you are tired after the train and walking, your hotel is usually easiest to reach by taxi rather than waiting for a local bus.

Day 13
Taichung, Taiwan

Taichung city break

Getting there from Chiayi City, Taiwan
TRA train from Chiayi Station to Taichung Station (about 1h25m–2h, NT$170–250). Use Taiwan Railway; morning departure allows a full day in Taichung.
HSR from HSR Chiayi to HSR Taichung (about 35m, NT$380–450), plus local transfers; faster but less convenient for central hotels.
  1. Chiayi–Taichung train — Chiayi to Taichung; allow roughly 2–3 hours door-to-door, including station access and check-in.
  2. National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts — West District; see major Taiwanese art exhibitions, late morning, ~2 hours.
  3. Audit Village — West District; browse creative shops and installations, ~1 hour.
  4. Calligraphy Greenway — West District; walk the landscaped cultural corridor, afternoon, ~1 hour.
  5. Fengjia Night Market — Xitun; have a lively street-food dinner, evening, ~2.5 hours; budget NT$300–700.

Morning

Take a morning TRA train from Chiayi Station to Taichung Station, allowing roughly 2–3 hours door-to-door for station access, the train, and leaving luggage at your accommodation. From Taichung Station, a taxi to the West District is usually the simplest option; the bus is cheaper but slower, especially with bags. Aim to reach the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts in the late morning. The museum is one of Taiwan’s best places for contemporary and modern art, with generous galleries and regularly changing exhibitions; allow about two hours. Admission to the main collections is often free, while special exhibitions may charge around NT$50–200. Check the current exhibition and opening-day details before setting out, as museums in Taiwan commonly close one weekday.

Afternoon

Walk or take a short taxi ride through the West District to Audit Village, a compact creative cluster in a converted government housing compound. Give yourself about an hour to browse independent design shops, small exhibitions, and colorful installations; it is more enjoyable as a relaxed wander than a checklist attraction. From there, continue on foot toward the Calligraphy Greenway, roughly 10–15 minutes away depending on the route. This landscaped cultural corridor is lined with public art, cafés, boutiques, and shaded seating, making it a good place to slow down after the museum. Allow about an hour, and consider stopping for a drink around CMP Block Museum of Arts if the afternoon is warm.

Evening

Head to Fengjia Night Market in Xitun by taxi or bus; from the West District, expect roughly 25–40 minutes depending on traffic. Arrive around 6:00pm before the busiest period, then spend about 2½ hours grazing rather than ordering one large meal. Look for pepper buns, grilled squid, fried chicken, scallion pancakes, and the market’s many fruit-drink stalls; a realistic food budget is NT$300–700 per person. Keep cash handy, wear comfortable shoes, and avoid carrying a large backpack through the narrowest lanes. A taxi back to central Taichung is the most convenient finish, particularly after the market becomes crowded.

Day 14
Taipei, Taiwan

Return to Taipei

Getting there from Taichung, Taiwan
HSR from HSR Taichung to Taipei (about 1h, NT$700). Book via THSR online or the T-Express app; depart mid-morning unless you need an early Taipei arrival.
TRA Tze-Chiang Limited Express from Taichung Station to Taipei (about 2h–2h30m, NT$375–400), arriving centrally and usually cheaper.
  1. Taichung–Taipei high-speed rail — Taichung to Taipei; allow roughly 2.5–3.5 hours door-to-door, including station transfer and luggage.
  2. Huashan 1914 Creative Park — Zhongzheng; visit exhibitions, design shops, and cafes, afternoon, ~2 hours.
  3. Taipei Main Station Underground Mall — Zhongzheng; browse books, electronics, and last-minute gifts, ~1 hour.
  4. Ximending — Wanhua; enjoy a final walk through Taipei’s pedestrian shopping district, evening, ~2 hours.
  5. Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle — Ximending; finish with a classic local noodle snack, ~30 minutes; budget NT$100–250.

Morning — Return to Taipei

Take a mid-morning HSR from HSR Taung Station toTaipei Main Station, allowing roughly 2½–3½ hours door-to-door once you include the local transfer to the HSR station, finding your platform, the one-hour train ride, and leaving your luggage at your Taipei accommodation. Reserve the seat through the THSR website or T-Express if you want a specific departure; the regular fare is about NT$700**. If you prefer arriving directly at the central railway station rather than the HSR terminal in Nangang or Banqiao, the TRA Tze-Chiang Limited Express is a cheaper alternative, though slower.

Afternoon — Creative Taipei and Last-Minute Shopping

After dropping your bags, head to Huashan 1914 Creative Park in Zhongzheng, about a 10-minute walk from Shandao Station or a short taxi ride from Taipei Main Station. Spend around two hours browsing the converted winery buildings, rotating exhibitions, independent design shops, and cafés. Exhibitions vary, and some require separate admission—check the current listings before going, while the outdoor grounds are generally free and easy to explore. For lunch or coffee, choose one of the on-site cafés rather than rushing onward; this is a good final slow pause before the evening crowds.

Walk or take the underground passages back toward Taipei Main Station for an hour in the Taipei Main Station Underground Mall. The connected corridors are useful for books, stationery, electronics, character goods, and compact souvenirs, though the maze can be confusing—keep an eye on exit numbers and allow extra time if carrying luggage. Shops often keep different schedules, so treat this as a flexible browsing stop rather than relying on every store being open.

Evening — Ximending Farewell

From Taipei Main Station, take the MRT one stop to Ximen Station and spend the evening wandering Ximending. The pedestrian streets are liveliest after dark, with neon signs, street performers, small boutiques, and plenty of people-watching around The Red House. Allow about two hours without trying to cover every side street; the lanes around Emei Street and Hanzhong Street are particularly good for a final browse. Finish at Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle for its signature thick rice noodles with braised pork intestines and cilantro. A small bowl is inexpensive—roughly NT$60–80, with NT$100–250 enough for a satisfying snack and drink—and it is generally a standing, quick-service stop rather than a sit-down meal. Expect a queue at peak dinner time, but it usually moves quickly.

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