█ Alishan‧Sun moon lake‧Qingjing Farm‧Mt.Hehuan‧Taroko Gorge‧Jiaosi Hot Spring — 7-day Tour of Taiwan (4-star Hotels throughout the entire trip + 5-star hotel in Jiaoxi, Yilan)
Seven days exploring Taiwan's peninsula, journeying through Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Central Cross-Island Highway, Cingjing, Hehuan Mountain, Taroko, and Yilan Jiaoxi. Enjoying stays in 4-star hotels throughout, with a luxurious 5-star experience in Yilan Jiaoxi. Scenic landscapes along the way provide a captivating journey, offering a deep exploration of Taiwan's diverse facets. The trip is enriching and fulfilling, leaving behind unforgettable memories.
█ Itinerary
Day1. 13:05 Arrival at Taoyuan Airport → Enjoy Dinner → Staying at Hotel Orient Luxury in Chiayi or similar class (4-star Hotels)
Breakfast on own ｜ Lunch on own ｜Serve dinner
Hotel Orient Luxury or similar class (4-star Hotels)
Day2.
Enjoy Breakfast → Taking the Alishan Forest Railway from Chiayi Train Station → Fenqihu Old Street → Enjoy Lunch → Alishan National Park → Enjoy Dinner → Staying at Hotel Orient Luxury or similar class (4-star Hotels)
Serve breakfast｜Serve lunch｜ Serve dinner
Hotel Orient Luxury or similar class (4-star Hotels)
▇ Introduction to the attractions to be visited on the second day
Alishan Forest Railway
To enable trains to climb up, the gradient of the railroad must be decreased. When the area is not spacious enough, the S type line and U-turn line cannot be used and the Loop line and Spiral loop can't be laid. As a result, the railroad must go up and down steep slopes and around sharp bends like climbing the stairs, to enable trains to climb up the mountain. In general, a switchback greatly affects the ridership and the speed of trains, so it would be adopted when there is no other choice. The switchback of the Alishan Forest Railway is the most popular in Taiwan. The train comes up from the right side and returns to the left side for climbing the slope while running along the switchback.
After arriving at Fenchihu, you can explore Fenchihu Railway Station, the vintage steam locomotive, Sifang Bamboo, and Fenchihu Old Street. While strolling through the century-old street, don't miss the local delicacies such as train-shaped pastries, grass cake, iron eggs, Fenchihu's special tofu, and Aiyu jelly.
Alishan National Park
Alishan was originally one of Taiwan's three major forest areas, later developed into a national forest recreation area. Along the ancient tree-lined paths, you can breathe in the freshness of phytoncides and listen to the melodies of birds. During the blooming season, the entire mountain is covered in vibrant floral landscapes.
Alishan's forest resources span different climate zones. Starting with tropical plants like longan, betel nut, acacia, and bamboo groves on the plains, as you ascend, the scenery transitions to subtropical forests with bamboo, high mountain tea plantations, and Aiyu jelly trees. Moving higher into the temperate zone, you'll encounter cypress, Taiwan red cedar, Chinese hemlock, Taiwan spruce, and Taiwan red cypress.
Sister Lakes
Jiemei (Sister) Lakes Introduction：The lakes are two high mountain lakes, one large and one small.It is said that two aboriginal girls could not find love and committed suicide here. The little sister lake is oval in shape, the elder sister lake is larger and rectangular and has two wooden “love pavilions” built on Formosan red cypress bases. The two lakes are less than 50 meters apart.
Alishan Giant Tree Top Trail
The forest recreation area’s Giant Tree Plank Trail has two phases at present, with Shenyi Bridge the dividing point. The first phase of the trail starts from the 1000 year old Formosan red cypress and ends at the remains of the sacred tree;it is 600 meters long and has 20 giant Formosan red cypress along it.
Day3.
Enjoy Breakfast → Sun Moon Lake Ropeway → Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village (Lunch is self-arranged) → Boat tour on Sun Moon Lake → Enjoy Dinner →Staying at Lealea Garden Hotel-Sun or similar class (4-star Hotels)
Serve breakfast｜ Lunch on own ｜Serve dinner
Lealea Garden Hotel-Sun or similar class (4-star Hotels)
▇ Introduction to the attractions to be visited on the third day
Sun Moon Lake Ropeway
Spanning 1.877 kilometers between the Sun Moon Lake Youth Activity Center and the Observation Tower of the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, the 7-minute direct cable car ride offers splendid views of Sun Moon Lake, as well as the surrounding mountains and basins of Puli.
The above photos are taken from《日月潭纜車》
Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
The Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village consists of three major parts: European Garden, Joy World, and the Indigenous Tribal Landscape Area. It covers an area of 62 hectares, with the highest elevation reaching 900 meters. It boasts eight superlatives in Taiwan's amusement parks—Taiwan's tallest free fall, the largest European Garden, the highest altitude, the most trees, and the richest Indigenous culture. Whether you wish to immerse yourself in Indigenous culture, experience thrilling rides, enjoy a show, or savor authentic cuisine amidst lush greenery, the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village welcomes families for the most exciting adventures in Taiwanese amusement parks.
To quickly explore various parts around Sun Moon Lake, the best way is to take a boat ride on the lake. While aboard, you can enjoy the lakeside scenery and listen to the captain's interesting guided commentary. Let the locals take you deep into the attractions and history of Sun Moon Lake.Sun Moon Lake has three major piers: Shuishe Pier, Xuanguang Temple Pier, and Ita Thao Pier. Boat services follow a counterclockwise direction (Shuishe Pier → Xuanguang Temple Pier → Ita Thao Pier → Shuishe Pier).
Day4.
Enjoy Breakfast → Autumn maple viewing in Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area → Enjoy Lunch → Swiss Garden → Enjoy Dinner → Staying at Ease Hotel Group in Puli or similar class (4-star Hotel, Accommodation in a quadruple room for 2 people is provided)
Serve breakfast ｜ Serve lunch ｜ Serve dinner
Ease Hotel Group in Puli or similar class (4-star Hotel, Accommodation in a quadruple room for 2 people is provided)
▇ Introduction to the attractions to be visited on the fourth day
Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area
Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area, adorned with hills covered in golden maple leaves, magnificent suspension bridges, and surrounded by wild animals, is a charming forest destination.
Stepping into the Swiss Garden, it feels like being in the beautiful landscapes of Northern Europe, causing every cell in the body to come alive. With an area of over 4 acres and an average annual temperature of 15-23 degrees Celsius, the Swiss Garden is also an excellent summer retreat. The garden is adorned with various flowers, lavender, and aromatic herbs, adding a touch of fairytale ambiance. Its beauty as the "Switzerland of Taiwan" and the "Peach Blossom Wonderland in the Mist" is indeed well-deserved.
Day5.
Enjoy Breakfast → Cingjing Farm (Green Green Grassland and Skywalk) → Enjoy Lunch → Scenic views along the Central Cross-Island Highway (Wuling、Hehuan Mountain、Emerald Green Divine Tree) → Enjoy Dinner → Staying at Hotelday Plus Hualien or similar class (4-star Hotels)
Serve breakfast ｜ Serve lunch ｜ Serve dinner
Hotelday Plus Hualien or similar class (4-star Hotels)
▇Introduction to the attractions to be visited on the fifth day
Qingjing Green-Green Green Grassland
The Qingjing Green Meadow, located within the Qingjing Farm, extends endlessly with lush green grass. Strolling among the flocks of sheep on the meadow adds an enchanting charm to Qingjing Farm, resembling the pastoral beauty beyond the Great Wall. The farm offers a breathtaking view of the clear lake reflecting the Shou mountain, layers of greenery, distant views of Puli, ascending steps, the panoramic Ruiting, the auspicious Ciyun, towering peaks, the verdant meadow, fragrant orchards, and the spiritually uplifting experience. These are scattered along scenic trails, each offering unique and picturesque landscapes.
QingjingSkywalk
At your feet, green grass stretches like a carpet; in front, deep valleys extend for kilometers. As you gaze, the mountains unfold like a belt, and when you lift your head, the clear sky is azure." This is a vivid depiction of the Qingjing High Altitude Scenic Trail. Walking the 2000 steps on this trail at an elevation of 1700 meters offers a unique experience. The trail, located at an altitude of 1700-2000 meters, spans 1.2 kilometers, with a width of 2.5 meters. Connecting the existing old trail from the Qingjing National Guesthouse to the southern entrance of the Qingqing Grassland, the elevated design integrates seamlessly into the natural environment, allowing visitors to safely hike while enjoying panoramic views. Along the way, there are six scenic platforms where travelers can pause to feel the refreshing breeze, gaze at the Central Mountain Range, the valley of the Choshui River, and the much clearer blue sky than the plains.
Wuling
Wuling is the saddle between the main peak of Hehuan and the East Peak, located north of Kunyang, with an elevation of 3275 meters. It is the highest point in Taiwan accessible by car. Except for partial shading on the western side, the surrounding mountain ranges are visible in all directions. The east-facing observation platform provides an excellent vantage point to gaze upon the layered peaks of the Qilai Mountain Range and the arrow bamboo-covered slopes of Hehuan Mountain. The magnificent and vast panorama, especially during sunrise and sunset, accompanied by billowing clouds, gently touches the hearts of visitors. Additionally, one can experience the clear and crisp weather, enjoying the play of light and shadow on the earth during the day and stargazing or moon-watching at night. Wuling offers breathtaking scenery throughout the seasons, adorned with summer flowers and winter snow, making it a truly enchanting destination.
The above photos are taken from《太魯閣國家公園》
Hehuan Mountain
The renowned "Snow Mountain," Hehuan Mountain, is located at the border of Hualien and Nantou counties. The Hehuan Mountain Range is connected by seven peaks: Main Peak at 3,416 meters, East Peak at 3,421 meters, North Peak at 3,422 meters, West Peak at 3,144 meters, Shimen Mountain at 3,236 meters, Hehuan Jian Shan at 3,217 meters, and Shimen North Peak at 3,278 meters (the first five peaks are part of Taiwan's "Hundred Peaks"). Provincial Highway 14A (Dahyu Mountain to Wuling section) is the highest-altitude highway in Asia. With entrances at Dahyu Mountain and Wushe, taking the road from Dahyu Mountain provides scenic views of the Central Cross-Island Highway. If entering from Wushe, one can directly reach Lushan or take a route passing through Qingjing Farm, Meifeng, Cuifeng, Yuanfeng, Kunyang, Wuling, and finally, Dahyu Mountain. Along the way, you'll encounter unique alpine landscapes, including high mountain hemlock forests, white skeletons of trees, arrow bamboo groves, and expansive alpine meadows.
Emerald Green Divine Tree
Located at the 127.6-kilometer mark of the Central Cross-Island Highway, the lush Divine Tree is a cryptomeria, known as the Luan Da Cryptomeria. With an age exceeding three thousand years, it stands approximately 50 meters tall, and boasts a diameter of 3.5 meters, making it the most colossal sacred tree along the Central Cross-Island Highway.
The above photos are taken from《太魯閣國家公園》
Day6.
Enjoy Breakfast → Taroko National Park attractions → Enjoy Lunch → Qingshui Cliff → Enjoy Dinner → Staying at Hotel Orient Luxury in Yilan Yiaoxi or similar class (5-star Hotels)
Serve breakfast｜ Serve lunch｜Serve dinner
Hotel Orient Luxury in Yilan Yiaoxi or similar class (5-star Hotels)
▇ Introduction to the attractions to be visited on the sixth day
Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) Trail
The Swallow Grotto(Yanzikou), named after the many swallows that forge and play among the rocks, formed over tens of thousands of years. Over millenia, the Liwu river sculpted marble masterpieces such as the Chieftain Profile Rock, and many hollows and potholes that pockmark the grotto. Resembling swallow' s nests, these unique formations lent further inspiration for this grotto's name.
The above photos are taken from《太魯閣國家公園》
Shakadang Trail
Shakadang Trail is also known as "Mysterious Valley Trail" and was renamed to "Shakadang Trail" in 2001. This trail is built along the river cliff so travelers can easily observe both the rock folds and plant ecosystem beside in the river valley. After 4.1 km you will arrive at 3D Cabin –phonetic sound Sanjianwu, which is the favorite of visitors. After the first curve there is a deep pool with clear water that has enchanted many visitors. In May, it is the season when Tung tree flowers bloom, making the trail a pleasant flower hallway with flowers filling the air like snow flakes.
The above photos are taken from《太魯閣國家公園》
Changchun (Eternal Spring) Shrine
Drive from the west exit of the Changchun Tunnel of the Central Cross-Island Highway, then turn south(left) and go along the old Central Cross-Island Highway to the car park next to Liwu River, and you can see the Changchun Shrine (Eternal Spring Shrine) which commemorates the 226 personnel (military veterans) who died during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway (1956~1960). Spring water adjacent by the Eternal Spring Shine flows all year round, and the Highway Bureau named it after "Changchun Falls." It is now a scenic spot with special significance on the Central Cross-Island Highway.
The above photos are taken from《太魯閣國家公園》
Tunnel of Nine Turns (Jiuqudong)
The Tunnel of Nine Turns (Jiuqudong) Trail used to be part of the old Central Cross-Island Highway (Provincial Highway 8). In order to relieve the traffic of Central Cross-Island Highway, allow the tourists to enjoy the view of the gorge, and ensure tourists’ safety, Taroko National Park Headquarters devised the plan of vehicle-pedestrian separation. In 1996, Tunnel of Nine Turns (Jiuqudong) Tunnel was open for vehicles, whereas the original section of Central Cross-Island Highway was transformed into a walking path for pedestrians, which allows tourists to enjoy the scenery of Taroko Gorge at ease without the interference of vehicles.
The 1,220m-long Tunnel of Nine Turns (Jiuqudong) Tunnel is the longest tunnel of the Central Cross-Island Highway, while the 700 meters long Tunnel of Nine Turns (Jiuqudong) Trail is the best part of Taroko Gorge. The trail snuggles against the tall mountain and deep gorge. If you look down, you will see Liwu River gushing swiftly past the mountain walls facing each other so closely. You will be astonished at the craftsmanship of nature that has created these treacherous terrains.
The above photos are taken from《太魯閣國家公園》
Qingshui Cliff
Situated between Heren and Chongde on the Su-Hua Highway, Qingshui Cliff is a big formed by Chongde, Qingshui and Heping mountain coastal cliffs. Creating a magnificent scene, it stretches more than 21km and rises vertically from the Pacific Ocean, with an average height of over 800m. This section of cliff is composed of gneiss and marble. It has risen straight up on the eastern coast of Taiwan for thousands of years. The route along the Qingshui Cliff is the only coastal road in Taroko National Park. The site of the Qingshui Cliff was designated in 1953 by the Taiwan government as one of the island's "Eight Wonders."
The above photos are taken from《太魯閣國家公園》
Qixingtan (Seven Star Lake)
Qixing Lake (Qixingtan) is located in Beipu Village, Xincheng Township, in the northeast of Hualien City. Visitors can get there via Meilun Industrial Park by following the signs in front of the National Dong Hwa University Meilun Campus. The beach there has an elegant arch shape. The seawater there is clean and blue. The black stones there are crystal. From here visitors can see the great green mountains afar and the twisting highways.
The above photos are taken from《交通部觀光署》
Day7.
Enjoy Breakfast → North Coast scenic views (Taiwan's easternmost point, Sandiaojiao/Nanya Peculiar Rock/Yin-Yang Sea) → Enjoy Lunch → Jiufen → Releasing sky lanterns in Shifen → Estimated arrival at Taoyuan Airport at 18:00
Serve breakfast ｜ Serve lunch ｜ Dinner on own
Warm home
▇ Introduction to the attractions to be visited on the seventh day
Sandiaojiao
Sandiaojiao, the easternmost point of Taiwan, is formed of the northern tip of the Xueshan (Xue Mountain) Range. The most prominent landmark here is the Sandiaojiao Lighthouse, which was built in 1935 as an important navigational aid for ships sailing past northern Taiwan. A popular spot for tourists, the lighthouse is open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily except for Mondays and days following national holidays.
The above photos are taken from《交通部觀光署》
Nanya Peculiar Rock
The northernmost tourist site in the scenic area, Nanya is noted for its fantastic rock formations and sea-eroded coral shore. The entire coastline here is a veritable sculpture garden that illustrates, in stone, the incomparable artistry of weathering and wave action. The patterned stone topography of Nanya, unique in Taiwan, was formed through the weathering of the sandstone that lines the shore. The oxidation of iron ore within the striations of the stone has given it a beautiful striped pattern. (At the 89-kilometer mark of Provincial Highway 2, or the Coast Highway)
The above photos are taken from《交通部觀光署》
Yin-Yang Sea
Located north of the Shuinandong settlement in Ruifang District, New Taipei City, the Yinyang Sea is famous for its unique color, which is a mix of blue and yellow. It is a remarkable geographical landscape in the coastal region of Taiwan’s northeast corner. Since the nearby Jinguashi Mountain is rich in pyrite, which forms copper and iron after weathering, an acid called ferrous hydroxide is suspended into the water; this acid absorbs sediment, resulting in the yellowish-blue color that makes the Yinyang Sea so unique. The water in the bay, which as a result of natural minerals is yellowish brown in color, is completely different from the blue seawater; this contrast is often praised as a natural color palette.
On the T-shaped crossroad between Dongding Rd. and Provincial Highway No. 2, a long straight road connects the blue sea to the azure sky and white clouds, bearing a strong resemblance to a classic scene from the famous anime Slam Dunk. Because of this, it is also known as “Small Kamakura”.
The above photos are taken from《新北市觀光旅遊網》
Jiufen Old Street
Jiufen, which was rich in gold mines in the early days, has the good name of “Golden Mountain City”. The settlements were prosperous due to the influx of gold miners, but then became quiet after the decline of gold mining. In the 1980s, the movie “A City of Sadness” came to Juifen for shooting. The beauty of the mountains and seas, the retro buildings and unique landscape of sloping fields in Juifen hit the big screen, which makes it one of the fascinating mountain cities to domestic and foreign tourists.
The small stores in the twisting alleyways of Juifen
The narrow street of Juifen Old Street, which goes along the hill, has gathered all kinds of stores. The good smell of the traditional food is everywhere. You must try the classic snacks in Juifen, such as taro balls, meatballs, chháu-á-kóe (mugwort rice cake), and more. Besides, there are antique toys, special Taiwanese souvenirs and other dazzling array shopping options for tourists to choose from. Tourists can explore the unknown in the lanes and alleys in Juifen, and admire its beauty from different angles.
Walk into the tea houses and theaters to feel the charm of culture in Juifen
If you want to stay away from the crowd and rest, you may walk into a tea house, get to know the culture of drinking tea, appreciate the fine tea sets, have a cake to go with your tea and enjoy the peaceful time. You may also step into Shengping Theater, the first stage in Juifen. The retro ticket window, old movie posters and snack stores in the theater present the style of 1960s. It’s worth exploring for tourists coming to experience the atmosphere of the old theater.
The above photos are taken from《新北市觀光旅遊網》
Releasing sky lanterns in Shifen
Shifen Old Street and Jingan Bridge in the periphery of the station are ideal places for many visitors to take photos with. Since Shifen Waterfall is right next to the railroad, there is a waterfall observation bridge by the railroad, giving an alternative experience of observing the trains while standing on the bridge. Shifen Waterfall is a curtain waterfall similar to Niagara Falls in North America, thus it is also honored as the Niagara Falls of Taiwan. The main characteristic of this place is the connection between the old street and the railroad, where one may experience the interesting feeling of “trains passing by your front door”, as well as the fun of window-shopping next to the railroad itself.
The above photos are taken from《新北市觀光旅遊網》
The old street commercial circle is fairly boisterous and diverse; one may even purchase a sky lantern to write down wishes and prayers for oneself and for family and friends; store owners filled with human touch not only provide friendly guidance, but will even teach you how to take beautiful photos of the sky lantern!
█ The cost includes
7-day transportation
Accommodation (5 nights in a 4-star hotel + 1 night in a 5-star hotel)
Meals (6 breakfasts + 5 lunches + 6 dinners)
Alishan Forest Railway ticket (one-way ticket from Chiayi to Fenqihu)
Alishan Forest Recreation Area entrance ticket
Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village entrance ticket (including Sun Moon Lake Ropeway)
Boat ticket for touring Sun Moon Lake
Green Green Grassland entrance ticket (including Skywalk)
Swiss Garden entrance ticket
Aowanda Forest Recreation Area entrance ticket
Materials fee for releasing sky lanterns in Shifen
7-day travel insurance coverage (NT$5 million accident insurance + NT$200,000 medical insurance) per person.
Breakfast on own ｜ Lunch on own ｜Serve dinner
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