7 Days Exploring Taiwan's Mountains Itinerary

Begin with a hike at Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan). The trail is relatively short but offers stunning views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. It's a great way to start your day with some exercise and fresh air.

Visit Taipei National Palace Museum, home to one of the largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts in the world. Spend a few hours exploring its vast exhibits. For lunch, head to 欣葉日本料理 nearby for some exquisite Japanese cuisine.

Explore Shilin Night Market, one of Taipei's most famous night markets. Try various street foods like stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and bubble tea. Don't miss out on this vibrant local experience.

Start your day with a relaxing visit to Beitou Hot Spring. Enjoy soaking in the natural hot springs surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Afterward, explore more of Beitou by visiting Beitou Geothermal Valley (Hell Valley). The steaming waters make for an otherworldly experience. For lunch, try local delicacies at nearby eateries or head back into central Taipei for more options.

Dine at 金峰魯肉飯, known for its delicious braised pork rice. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that will leave you satisfied.

Head out early to spend your day hiking in Yangmingshan National Park. The park offers numerous trails with varying difficulty levels, beautiful landscapes, hot springs, and volcanic geology.

Take a break from hiking to enjoy lunch at one of the park's visitor centers or picnic areas. Continue exploring different trails or relax in one of the park's scenic spots.

Return to Taipei city center for dinner at 阜杭豆漿, famous for its traditional Taiwanese breakfast items like soy milk and savory pancakes.

Yangmingshan National Park once more for some final hiking adventures. Explore different trails or revisit your favorite spots from earlier in the trip.

Head back to Taipei city center for lunch at 阿宗麵線, famous for its delicious vermicelli noodles in savory broth.

Conclude your trip with dinner at 永康牛肉麵, renowned for its flavorful beef noodle soup. Reflect on your adventures as you prepare for departure.

Start your day early with a visit to Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan's most stunning natural wonders. Begin at the Shakadang Trail, known for its crystal-clear river and beautiful marble walls. The trail is relatively easy and offers breathtaking views.

Continue your exploration with a hike on the Swallow Grotto Trail. This trail provides close-up views of the gorge's towering cliffs and unique rock formations. For lunch, pack a picnic or grab something from a local vendor to enjoy amidst nature.

After a day of hiking, head back to Hualien city for dinner at Dai Ji Wonton, known for its delicious wonton soup and other local specialties. Relax and unwind after an adventurous day.

Travel to Chiayi and make your way to Alishan National Scenic Area. Start with a ride on the famous Alishan Forest Railway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Hike through Alishan's trails, exploring its lush forests, tea plantations, and scenic viewpoints. Don't miss the Giant Tree Trail, where you can see ancient trees that are thousands of years old. For lunch, try some local mountain cuisine at one of the park's restaurants.

Alishan House Restaurant is an excellent choice for dinner, offering traditional Taiwanese dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Enjoy a relaxing evening in this serene mountain setting.