Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Destinations

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

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 Treasure Hill 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.

See Hotel
Mandarin Oriental, Taipei Preferred Hotel

Day 2

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

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

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

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.

Suggested Hotels For Day 1

Mandarin Oriental, Taipei
Preferred Hotel

Mandarin Oriental, Taipei

The utterly stunning Mandarin Oriental Taipei stands shining over Dun Hua North Road in central Taipei. Just a short distance from both Songshan Airport Station and from Nanjing East Road MRT station, this architectural marvel is within easy reach of the city and all its delights. Nearby attractions certain to interest guests include Taipei Arena, Taipei Fine Art Museum, a number of beautiful riverside parks and the city’s shopping district with Taipei 101. Within the hotel are a range of opulent rooms and suites to suit all tastes, sumptuously decorated and well equipped for comfort and luxury. Guests can choose between three formal restaurants serving a range of cuisines from around the world, while the hotel’s bar and cake shop serve delightful little treats. What’s more, the pool, spa and lounge encourage guests to relax and unwind, while the fitness center is perfect for invigorating workouts. 

Rosewood Taipei
Preferred Hotel

Rosewood Taipei

The new Rosewood Taipei will sit at an intersection of old and new neighborhoods, within the Xinyi District of the city. The property will be composed of 191 guest rooms and 27 suites, which feature gorgeous views of Taipei's mountains and skyline. Hotel amenities include five restaurants and bars, business facilities, an indoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, as well as Sense, A Rosewood Spa - replete with four treatment rooms.

Suggested Hotel For Day 2

De En Gorge Guesthouse

De En Gorge Guesthouse


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). The staff is renowned for their friendly demeanor and the locale is located near the Maolin Recreation Facility and the Purple Butterfly Valley.


Suggested Hotels For Days 3–4

Silks Place Tainan

Silks Place Tainan

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.

Shangri-La's Far Eastern Plaza Hotel

Shangri-La's Far Eastern Plaza Hotel


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. The hotel’s amenities range from a spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, sauna, and steam room to five-star restaurants, a bar and a pub. Guests can also take advantage of the laundry/dry cleaning, babysitting and 24-hour room services.


Similar Itineraries

Classic Taiwan

Taiwan is often overlooked by the typical travelers – unfortunately for them. This 8-day adventure takes you snacking through night markets, to the fairytale-esque village of Jiufen, down the scenic east coast, hiking in a grand gorge, and face to face with the largest sitting bronze Buddha in Asia.

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,500
See Itinerary

Charming Taiwan: Taipei, Jiufen, Hualien, and more

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.

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $11,600
See Itinerary

Coastal Taiwanese Road Trip: Kaohsiung to Taipei

Taiwan is a beautiful, ecologically diverse island with miles of coastline to explore and a treasure trove of culturally interesting sites and monuments. On this seven-day itinerary that starts from Kaohsiung on the lower west side of the island and traces along a scenic coastal road heading north to Taipei, learn about this fascinating nation and how it came to be what it is today. Enjoy numerous stops at high oceanside cliffs, a visit to a local fishing village, and a full day spent touring the capital, Taipei, and its many museums, parks, and night markets.

Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,000
See Itinerary

Taiwan Top to Bottom with Kids

Gather the family and head to Taiwan for a 9-day trip through the island’s most exciting cities and postcard-perfect natural landscapes that is sure to captivate and teach even the youngest traveler. Education and entertainment can be found hand in hand at interactive museums, cultural villages, ancient tea houses, community farms and temples throughout the island, from Taipei down to Kaosiung. Relish these good times with the whole family and come away with fond memories and new lessons for everyone.

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,300
See Itinerary

Taste of Taiwan: The Ultimate Foodie Adventure

Arrive hungry and remember to pack your taste buds. This ultimate foodie tour of Taiwan takes your tongue on a tantalizing journey to the island’s best culinary destinations.

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,500
See Itinerary

Total Taiwan: Around the Island in Twelve Days

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.  

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,000
See Itinerary

Uncover Chinese Culture Through Expansive Artistic Venues

Immerse yourself in a stunning expanse of contemporary and historical artwork over this 10-day sojourn in China. From Beijing to Taipei, you will uncover modern artistic perceptions of one of society’s most ancient cultures.

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,400
See Itinerary
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.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

What Others Say

Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.