Example Itinerary

Discovering Historic Taiwan

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Heritage
Destinations
Taiwan

Nicknamed the “Ilha Formosa” or the “beautiful island” by Portuguese sailors in the 16th century, Taiwan is a stunning tropical and mountainous island. The small island has a surprisingly large economic presence in the world’s financial realm. Venture outside of the capital city of Taipei and travel into the off-the-radar fascinating areas of Zuoying and Tainan. This 5-day Discovering Historical Taiwan itinerary will show you a entire new side to the island. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Spirituality: Historic Tainan is home to seven Buddhist temples, eight Taoist shrines and the island's first Confucian temple, which still holds ceremonies today.
  • Colonial Legacy: Learn about the Dutch colonization of Taiwan at Fort Provintia, an outpost built in 1653 when Dutch merchants established the city of Tainan as a trading base.
  • Politics & Peace: Taiwan has a fascinating yet complex past and its political situation is still a delicate issue. Taipei's National Palace Museum and 228 Peace Park offer insights into the island's relationships with Japan and mainland China.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Map

Taipei

Arrive in the Republic of China, more commonly known as Taiwan. You land in Taiwan’s capital, Taipei, where you will be transferred to your hotel, the Regent. After freshening up, check out the city’s many attractions including the Longshan Temple, the National Palace Museum, the Taipei Artist Village or take a stroll through the 228 Peace Park.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: In the Taipei’s central business district, the Mandarin Oriental is located near to MRT stations and is only a short distance from Songshan Airport.

Service: From the moment a reservation is made, staff are on hand to cater to guests’ every need before they ask, offering world-famous Mandarin Oriental service.

History: Since its opening in spring 2014, the Mandarin Oriental Taipei has been wowing guests and proving its reputation as Taiwan’s finest five-star hotel.

Read More
Mandarin Oriental, Taipei Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Map

Maolin

Take a high-speed train into Zuoying, in Kaosiung City, followed by a short drive to Maolin National Scenic Area in the western foothills. Take a stroll through the lovely area after you check in to the De En Gorge Guesthouse. Many tribes from the indigenous population live in the area and there are education centers where visitors can see intricate tribal gear and handicrafts on display. Keep an eye out for the Purple Crow butterfly which winters in the Maolin area. 

Hotel Options
About

Set in the Maolin Valley, De En Gorge Guesthouse is a rustic and basic option for travelers who want to experience more verdant accommodations. Two options are available for patrons, the stone cabins for those looking for a solid bed and protection from the elements and a campsite for the adventurous looking to sleep outside (note: you must bring your own equipment).

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 3

Map

Tainan

Travel by high-speed rail to the oldest city, Tainan. The city was originally founded by Dutch merchants to serve as a trading base. Stay in the plush Shangri-La or Silks Place this evening, enjoying five-star dining and services.

Hotel Options
About

Shangri-La's Far Eastern Plaza Hotel in Tainan, southern Taiwan, combines luxury, comfort and first-rate services and facilities all conveniently located in downtown Tainan, within walking distance from the city center. The hotel’s rooms are some of the most spacious in Tainan and have a variety of features including en-suite bathrooms, televisions, satellite/cable channels, refrigerators, desks, bathrobes and deluxe toiletries.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

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.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Tainan
Tainan

Day 4

Map

Tainan

Check out the area’s famous temples and shrines. There are seven Buddhist temples and eight Taoist shrines in the area alone. Tainan is home to the island’s first Confucian temple. The National Museum of Taiwan History and the National Museum of Taiwan Literature are fascinating spots to learn about Taiwanese culture. The Dutch colonial Fort Provintia is a worth visiting as well. Return to the Shangri-La to relax for the evening.

Day 5

Map

Departure

Enjoy a leisurely morning at the Shangri-La, including a hearty gourmet breakfast. Travel from Tainan to Taipei, enjoying a last glance of the countryside. You’ll be assisted with your departure from Taipei to either continue your travels or return home.

Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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