in the southwest of Taiwan is its oldest city and erstwhile capital. Bursting with history, Tainan's architecture, food and people tell a fascinating story and visitors are enthralled by its charm. Known affectionately as the Phoenix City, Tainan has been through a number of iterations and comebacks. Originally built as a Dutch colony, much of which is still in evidence through towers and fortresses, it was taken back by the Taiwanese in 1661. And while Taipei assumed the title of capital in 1887, Tainan is still regarded as a cultural capital, famous for its unique snack foods, preservation of Taoist and Confucian buildings and ancient folklore. Visitors will enjoy exploring Tainan's rich heritage from Buddhist to colonial architecture, quiet, peaceful temples, Japanese houses and crumbling Dutch defence towers. Meanwhile, modern Tainan is alive and well with bustling department stores, night markets and sporting events, filled with young, vibrant people. Surrounded by nature, the city boasts a beautiful park within, as well as mangroves, hot springs and national parks in close proximity.
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A visit to the ruins of this 17th century fortress built by the Dutch is well worth it. Having changed hands to house Taiwanese royalty and later rebuilt by the Japanese, it’s an architectural reminder of the city’s history and its views of the ocean are stunning.
An unlikely place to find so American a sport, Tainan is the proud home of The Lions baseball team and a Taiwanese professional baseball game is an unmissable experience. Rowdy and raucous, the fans keep up a constant hubbub throughout the game, supporting their team.
Throughout the city at every turn are opportunities to find out why Tainan is known as the city of snacks. Street-side and night markets stalls are heaving with local delicacies including shrimp rolls, fried and stuffed bread, cakes and treats.
One of the most popular hot springs in the country, Guanziling’s bubbles are created by methane gas under the ground, which has been burning for centuries. Visitors flock to take a relaxing and healing dip in the waters.
Visitors flock to downtown Tainan for a bit of retail therapy. Beimen Road is popular for its sporting goods, Japanese fashion outlets and electrical stores. Nearby, on Chung-san Road, the Shinkong Mitsukoshi department store is packed with locals and tourists alike, searching for bargains.
In the center of the city lies a beautiful and peaceful green space. Local flowers and trees line the pathways and overhang the pond, and couples stroll arm-in-arm, enjoying a relaxing afternoon.
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Experience the unique charm of Taiwan on this luxurious 11-day holiday. Between visiting ancient temples, bustling markets, lush rainforests and a stunning gorge, the country will surely win your heart. There’s even time for soaking weary traveler’s bones in a relaxing natural hot spring.
Taiwan may slip under the radar on many travelers’ lists, but the island holds more than just a surprising economic power. Leave bustling Taipei and visit fascinating historic sites including the Chihkan Towers and exotic temples and shrines in Tainan to learn about Taiwan’s unique past on this luxurious 5-day tour.
Taking you from the 21st-century metropolis of Taipei, all the way across this fascinating island to discover untouched village life and majestic national parks, this 12-day itinerary is packed full of exciting activities that will leave you with a lasting memory of charming Taiwan.
Within a short walk of Tainan’s Confucian temple, baseball stadium and a number of parks, Silks Place is the perfect hotel for visitors to the enchanting, historic city. The hotel itself nods to its heritage with authentic calligraphy and beautiful pottery adorning walls and surfaces, without any compromise on modern luxury. Spacious and comfortable, the rooms at Silks Place cater to leisure or business guests with excellent amenities including WiFi as well as laundry and shoe shine services. Gastronomic offerings are provided by the Chinese, Japanese and steak restaurants while T Bar serves traditional teas in a tranquil atmosphere. The hotel’s fourth floor is home to recreation activities for all ages. The outdoor swimming pool is perfect for soaking up the sun with a refreshing dip and the well-equipped gym takes care of the fitness regime. Younger guests will also be occupied in the fun and colorful kids’ club.
From its ideal location in the center of the city, the elegant, five-star Tayih Landis hote is the perfect base for visitors to Tainan, whether for business or pleasure. Notable attractions including the historic marvels of Chihkan Tower, Confucius Temple and Koxinga Shrine are nearby, while the hotel is well equipped for guests’ every need. The rooms and suites are stylishly decorated with warm tones and comfortable furniture, in a range of configurations to suit all travel parties. Dining options include a range of Asian flavors from Teppanyaki to Chinese, not to mention an international buffet and charming deli for light bites. What’s more, the sumptuous lounge bar is perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap after-hours. With a business center and a range of meeting rooms, the professional guest is taken care of, while leisure visitors can make use of the pool, spa and fitness center.
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