Tour Overview
- Eat your way through Taiwan's night markets
- Step back in time exploring Taiwan's ancient villages
- Sip on award winning Taiwanese whiskey
- Explore the stunning 'rice barn' of Taiwan
- Participate in a traditional tea making ceremony
- Wander through one of Taiwan's family mansions
- Meander through alpine forests
- Discover Sun Moon Lake by bike or on foot
Embrace the rich culture of Taiwan on this immersive 10-day journey through its vibrant cities, scenic landscapes, and historic sites.
Begin your adventure in Taipei, where the skyline blends modern marvels with the deep cultural heritage. Taste your way through the bustling night markets before exploring the picturesque village of Jiufen and the geological wonders of Yehliu Geo Park. Discover the traditional arts in Yilan, sip world-renowned whisky at the Kavalan Distillery, and immerse yourself in the heritage of Beipu. Journey through the serene beauty of Alishan, witness the sunrise over majestic peaks, and cycle around the tranquil Sun Moon Lake. Delve into the historical treasures of Lukang and Tainan, and experience the vibrant energy of Kaohsiung. Be fascinated by the Rukai Tribe village of Wutai and absorb all that this fascinating and diverse island nation has to offer.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival - Taipei
Welcome to Taiwan! Upon arrival at Taoyuan Airport, you will be greeted by your tour guide and transferred to Taipei City. Taiwan’s sprawling capital city is an exciting mix of South-East Asia, US and Japanese influences. The skyline is dominated by the impressive Taipei 101 Tower, once the tallest in the world, and made more impressive by its backdrop of rolling mountains in the North. The city is quirky and friendly and one of the safest capitals in Asia.
National Palace Museum
Your journey continues with a visit to the renowned National Palace Museum. This cultural treasure trove houses a vast collection of Chinese art and historical artifacts, making it a fascinating journey through centuries of history. Explore the museum’s extensive exhibitions, including ancient calligraphy, intricate paintings, delicate ceramics, and other priceless treasures. Witness the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and heritage, beautifully preserved and showcased in this iconic institution.
You will then be taken to your hotel to check in.
Raohe Night Market
You will continue to Raohe Night Market, one of the oldest traditional markets in Taipei and bustling with street food stalls, carnival games and quaint little shops. You might like to try some of the interesting local specialties as you walk around the eateries (paid locally). Afterwards, you will return to your hotel and have the evening at leisure.
Meals
None
Accommodation
AR Tree Hotel or similar
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
Day 2 – Taipei – Northern Coast
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before we set out for Jiufen Village.
Jiufen
Jiufen, perched high in the misty mountains of Taiwan, is a picturesque village that transports visitors to a bygone era with its charming, lantern-lit alleys and stunning panoramic views of the sea. Famous for its bustling market, historical teahouses, and cinematic associations, Jiufen is a must-visit destination that seamlessly blends culture, nostalgia, and natural beauty. Wander through the old street, where Japanese-style architecture, unique teahouses, and art craft stores abound. If you’re a fan of Miyazaki, you’ve come to the right place—Jiufen inspired the enchanting world of “Spirited Away.” Be sure to try the local favorite, Taro Balls in sweet red bean soup, while soaking in views from teahouses and coffee shops that overlook the sleepy mountain town.
Gold Museum
Gold flakes were found here in 1890 during the construction of the Taipeh-Kelung railway, and by 1893, gold-bearing quartz had turned this area into a gold rush hotspot. We’ll also make a photo stop at the mesmerizing Golden Waterfall and the haunting 13 Levels copper factory ruin perched on the hillside by the sea.
Shifen Village
Shifen Old Street, nestled within the enchanting Pingxi District of Taiwan, which is a nostalgic haven that captures the essence of a bygone era. Lined with traditional wooden storefronts and vibrant lanterns, it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage.
Yehliu Geo Park
Located on a strip of land that stretches into the Pacific Ocean, this beautiful park is known for its bizarre rock formations formed by wind and sea abrasion. These include mushroom and honeycomb shaped rocks, and one particularly regal rock tower known as the Queen’s Head which looks like either Queen Nefertiti, or Queen Elizabeth in likeness, depending on which angle you are looking at it from.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
AR Tree Hotel or similar
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
Day 3 – Tapei To Yilan
After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Yilan, via the majestic Mt. Snow Tunnel—the world’s 5th longest tunnel, a marvel that took 15 arduous years to complete, linking Pinlin in greater Taipei with Mt. Snow.
Yilan
You will then head for Yilan County, the ‘rice barn’ of Taiwan (approx. 1 hour). In this beautiful landscape, the water is clean and there is abundant rain, making Yilan the perfect place to grow plants, tea, fruit, and rice.
Enjoy a short walk which unveils the mesmerizing waterfall and a quaint Chinese-style church. Next, immerse yourself in the rich heritage at the National Centre for Traditional Arts. Here, traditional Taiwanese arts and toys come to life, and you can witness the vibrant daily parades. Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the Donshan River, offering a serene perspective.
Kavalan Whisky Distillery
Your journey continues to the acclaimed. Discover the meticulous process behind crafting their world-renowned whisky and indulge in a tasting session to appreciate its award-winning flavours.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
AR Tree Hotel or similar
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
Day 4 – Taipei – Hsinchu – Taichung
After breakfast, check out of your hotel before embarking on a scenic drive to Beipu. (Approximately 1.5 hours).
Beipu
This quaint town, once populated by Fujian Hakka and Cantonese migrants, boasts an eclectic mix of architectural styles that tell the tale of its diverse heritage. As you wander through the narrow lanes and winding alleys of the old streets, every corner holds a new surprise. Engage with the locals, hear their family stories, and delve into the history that shaped this charming town.
Tea Making process
Try your hand at making Lei Tea, a traditional Hakka beverage crafted by grinding sesame seeds, peanuts, and green tea into a fine powder, then mixing with hot water. Savour the fruits of your labour with a warm, freshly brewed cup.
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your adventure to Taichung, the largest city in central Taiwan. (Approximately 1.5 hours ).
Gaomei Wetland
Upon arrival, head to, a sprawling 1,500 acre area south of the Dajia River’s mouth. This unique terrain, a blend of sand and soil, supports a rich and diverse wetland ecosystem. It is home to Taiwan’s largest colony of Bolboschoenus planieulmis and hosts an array of species, making it a prime spot for bird-watching, especially during the fall and winter months when migratory birds flock here.
Bubble Tea Experience
Enjoy a cup of the renowned bubble tea at Chun Shui Tang Bubble Tea Ciwei Branch, the birthplace of this beloved beverage.
Feng Jia Night Market
Taiwan’s second-largest night market. Here, tantalise your taste buds with an array of mouth-watering street snacks, explore unique and affordable fashion, and discover the latest mobile phone trends at unbeatable prices.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Inksky Hotel or similar
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
Day 5 – Taichung–Alishan
Wufeng Lin Family Mansion
This is a living encyclopedia of Taiwan’s traditional architecture. This grand residence, often called the first official residence in Taiwan, showcases the intricate scale and unique architectural features that define its historical significance, written in wood, bricks, and tiles.
Next, embark on a journey to Alishan (Ali Mountain), the crown jewel of central Taiwan.
Alishan
This enchanting area is home to serene bamboo forests, majestic Japanese red cypress and cedar trees, lush tea plantations, and traditional Tsou villages. Enjoy a tea ceremony in the tea farm or amongst the bamboo forest (weather permitting) and visit a local tea farm.
Alishan is dotted with tranquil walking trails that meander through alpine forests and sea of clouds. Take the Dingshizhuo trail, leading us to a prime tea plantation. At 1300 metres above sea level, this area is renowned for its Alishan high mountain tea, both in terms of quantity and quality. The sight of clouds rolling in from the ocean along the roadside adds a mystical touch to the journey.
Meals
Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation
Indigo Hotel or similar
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
Day 6 – Alishan - Sun Moon Lake
If the weather is favourable you may consider waking up around 05:00 AM to catch the mesmerizing sunrise at Mt. Ju, where dawn breaks over majestic peaks, casting a golden glow that dances upon misty valleys—a breathtaking spectacle that awakens the soul.
Alishan Forestry Recreation Area
Take a scenic forest train ride, immersing yourself in the refreshing forest phytoncide.
For your hiking adventure, you have two exciting options:
Option 1: Take the forest train to Zhushan Sunrise Trail, renowned as the best spot to witness the sunrise in Alishan. The view platform offers a panoramic 360-degree vista of Ali Mountain. Please note, the train service may occasionally be unavailable due to technical reasons. If operational, you may opt to join at your own cost.
Option 2: Embark on the Shuei-shan Giant Tree Trail, a favourite among first-time visitors. This trail leads to Sister Pond and Shouzhen Temple, with the highlight being the Xianglin Giant Tree, estimated to be over 2000 years old and often called the second sacred tree of Ali Mountain, while the first sacred tree has stood for more than 3000 years.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. After lunch, catch a quick glimpse of Jade Mountain (3952m), Taiwan’s highest peak, before continuing your journey to Sun Moon Lake (approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by road).
Sun Moon Lake
Perched at 760 metres, Sun Moon Lake is famed for its crystal clear sparkling blue waters set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop. As Taiwan’s largest lake, it holds a special place as a traditional honeymoon destination for newlyweds and has been a hub of aboriginal life for millennia.
Cycle around Sun Moon Lake, one of the world’s top ten biking routes. Start westbound and receive love blessings at Longfeng Temple, a popular spot for young couples. Continue southwest to Xiangshan Visitor Centre, an architectural gem designed by Japanese futuristic architect Dan Morihiko. Ride back along the same bikeway, passing Shuishe Pier and Wenwu Temple, Taiwan’s largest temple complex dedicated to the God of Literature, War, and Confucius.
Meals
Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation
Sun Moon Lake Hotel or similar
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
Day 7 – Sun Moon Lake – Lukang - Tainan
This morning, you will depart to Lukang, a quaint town steeped in history, just 1.5-2 hours away.
Lukang
Once a bustling hub for trade with mainland China, Lukang is a treasure trove of old streets, ancestral homes, and ancient temples, including the revered Lung-shan and Matsu Temples. Explore by tricycle, delving into its rich tapestry of culture and heritage.
Tainan
Tainan is a city located in southern Taiwan and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. As Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan boasts a wealth of historical sites, including temples, forts, and museums which you will visit today, as well as a variety of delicious local cuisine.
The rest of the day is yours to wander and indulge at your leisure.
Meals
Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation
The Place Hotel or similar
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
Day 8 – Tainan - Kaohsiung
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out of Tainan. Head to Ten Drum Park for an energetic drum performance, where you will have the opportunity to try your hand at drumming.
Next, journey to Kaohsiung, the vibrant heart of Southern Taiwan.
The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
Situated in the tranquil Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung. This pair of remarkable and ornate structures that epitomise both spiritual significance and artistic splendour. These pagodas are connected by a zigzag bridge and stand as vivid symbols of good fortune, with the dragon representing courage and the tiger symbolizing protection. Visitors enter through the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s mouth, signifying the passage from darkness to light and the transformation of negative energies into positive ones. Inside, the pagodas are adorned with vibrant murals, intricate sculptures, and ornate altars, creating a captivating visual experience.
Explore the Buddhist Memorial Hall, where you’ll learn about Master Xinyun’s legacy and take part in a Heart Sutra writing session. Admire the towering Buddha Statue and the intricate Pagodas.
Check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Meals
Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation
The Lees Hotel or similar
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
Day 9 – Kaohsiung – Wutai - Taipei
After breakfast at the hotel and checking out of your hotel, head towards Wu Tai Village, perched 1,000 metres above sea level in the Central Mountains. Known as the “Home of the Clouds,” this Rukai Tribe village is a serene escape amidst the mist.
There will be the opportunity of a photo stop at Gu-Chuan Bridge, to capture the lush valley and vibrant greenery. Spot Rukai Tribe symbols like the lily and hundred-step snake in the local décor.
Explore Wu Tai Presbyterian Church, where Western and Rukai styles blend seamlessly in the stone plate house design. Stroll down Stone Plate Alley (Art Alley) and marvel at the stone sculptures, wooden carvings, and intricate artwork that showcase the indigenous culture.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant before traveling to Kaohsiung’s bullet train station. Board the sleek bullet train (economy class), gliding effortlessly through Taiwan’s scenic landscapes. Relax in comfort as you speed back to Taipei.
Meals
Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation
AR Tree Hotel or similar
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
Day 10 – Taipei - Departure
After breakfast, enjoy some of Taipei’s highlights, starting with the nostalgic Dihua Street market and the historic Dadaocheng area. Marvel at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and catch the changing of the guard ceremony. Snap photos at Taipei 101, the city’s iconic skyscraper (admission to the 89th-floor observatory may be weather-dependent), and visit the vibrant Bao-An Temple.
Enjoy lunch at the famed Din Tai Fung or Hangzhou Xiaolongbao House for a taste of Taiwan’s culinary excellence and delicious soup dumplings.
Drive to the airport, bidding a fond farewell to Taiwan as you embark on your journey home.
Meals
Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation
N/A
Services
Private transportation
Services of an English speaking guide
What's Included
-
Return airport transfers with English Speaking Guide
-
English speaking tour guide and driver’s services as described in the itinerary (including all parking & toll fees)
-
Private transportation
-
9 night’s accommodation including meals as shown
-
Entrance fees and tickets as per the itinerary
-
One way bullet train from Kaohsiung to Taipei (economy class) and the additional transfer from Taipei Station to the hotel in Taipei (including the guide’s bullet train ticket)
-
Bottled water per day
What's Not Included
-
International flights
-
Visas
-
Travel and medical insurance
-
All services, meals other than those indicated above
-
Personal porters
-
Any changes to the proposed and confirmed program.
-
All items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc
Check out our Q&As
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.
-
What sort of transportation is used for your tours?
Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels
-
Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?
Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.
-
What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?
Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.
-
Who do your tours cater for?
Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.
-
I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?
Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Tuesday - Thursday
Apr 15, 2025 - Apr 24, 2025Wednesday - Friday
Oct 15, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025Wednesday - Friday
Apr 15, 2026 - Apr 24, 2026Thursday - Saturday
Oct 15, 2026 - Oct 24, 2026Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
-
Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
-
Terms and Conditions