A 5-day itinerary in northern Taiwan: mountain towns, coastline, and memories of military dependents' villages.
Night market fireworks, the aroma of scallion fields, cascading waterfalls, and memories of military dependents' villages intertwine to create a journey of taste and emotion. You'll soak in hot springs in Jiaoxi, chase the sunlight in Jiufen, watch the sunset in Tamsui, and feel the pulse of youth in Ximending. This is not just a trip, but a heartfelt dialogue with the land of Taiwan.
Itinerary information
Daily Itinerary
Daily Tour
Day 1
Arrival in Taoyuan/Keelung
Keelung Miaokou Night Market
Keelung Miaokou Night Market, centered around the Tianhou Temple, boasts a wide variety of stalls and a well-organized layout. Its unique snacks are beloved by both locals and tourists. The market has a lively yet not crowded atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the food as you walk. Conveniently located, it is a representative hub of everyday food in Northern Taiwan.
Day 2
Keelung/New Taipei/Yilan
Yehliu Geopark
Jiufen Old Street, located in Ruifang District, New Taipei City, is one of Taiwan's most nostalgic mountain towns. Once prosperous due to gold mining, it now attracts tourists with its stone-paved streets, red lanterns, teahouses, and old houses. The streets are lined with shops selling local delicacies and handmade goods; taro balls, grass jelly, and the aroma of mountain tea evoke memories for travelers. Strolling through the area, one can enjoy panoramic views of Keelung Mountain and the coastline, experiencing the tranquility where mountains and sea meet, and appreciating the rich cultural heritage.
Jiufen Old Street
Jiufen Old Street, located in Ruifang District, New Taipei City, is one of Taiwan's most nostalgic mountain towns. Once prosperous due to gold mining, it now attracts tourists with its stone-paved streets, red lanterns, teahouses, and old houses. The streets are lined with shops selling local delicacies and handmade goods; taro balls, grass jelly, and the aroma of mountain tea evoke memories for travelers. Strolling through the area, one can enjoy panoramic views of Keelung Mountain and the coastline, experiencing the tranquility where mountains and sea meet, and appreciating the rich cultural heritage.
Pingxi Shifen Old Street
Shifen Old Street, located in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, is one of Taiwan's well-known old mountain streets. The street retains its architectural style from the Japanese colonial period, with a railway running through it, creating a unique landscape. Visitors can release sky lanterns to pray for blessings, sample local snacks such as grilled sausages and grass cakes, and stroll along the Shifen Waterfall Trail to experience the charm of nature and culture intertwined.
Shifen Waterfall
Shifen Waterfall, located in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, is one of Taiwan's most spectacular curtain waterfalls. Approximately 40 meters wide and 20 meters high, it's nicknamed "Taiwan's Niagara Falls" because its water flows like a white ribbon. Viewing platforms and walkways are available around the falls, allowing for close-up appreciation of the rushing water. The scenery is particularly magnificent in spring and summer when the water volume is abundant, making it a must-see natural attraction in the Pingxi area.
Jing'an Suspension Bridge
Jing'an Suspension Bridge, located in Pingxi District, New Taipei City, is an important pedestrian bridge connecting Shifen and Jing'an areas. Spanning the Keelung River, the bridge is approximately 128 meters long and features red steel cables, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding green mountains and waters. Walking across it offers panoramic views of the river valley and allows visitors to experience the tranquil atmosphere of the mountain city.
Tangweigou Hot Spring Park
Tangweigou Hot Spring Park, located in the heart of Jiaoxi City, Yilan, is a relaxing space that combines natural scenery with hot spring culture. The park features free foot baths, an open-air foot bath area, and a Japanese-style garden, allowing visitors to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of hot springs in a relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by numerous shops and easily accessible, it is the most accessible hot spring destination in Jiaoxi.
Day 3
Yilan/Taipei
Experience making scallion pancakes DIY
Making scallion pancakes in Sanxing Township, Yilan County, is a popular activity among tourists, often held at farms or scallion culture museums. Participants can pick the famous local Sanxing scallions themselves and learn how to knead the dough, mix the scallions, and fry the pancakes. The activity not only allows participants to enjoy the delicious, crispy scallion pancakes but also provides knowledge about scallion cultivation and local agricultural culture.
Jimmy Plaza
Located next to Yilan Railway Station, Jimmy Plaza is a public art space themed around the works of illustrator Jimmy Liao. The plaza incorporates classic characters and scenes from works such as "Turn Left, Turn Right" and "Starry Night," creating a fairytale atmosphere through large-scale installations and painted walls.
Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf, located in Tamsui District, New Taipei City, is a well-known tourist attraction that blends sea views, relaxation, and romance. Its most iconic landmark is the "Lovers' Bridge," a white cable-stayed bridge spanning the harbor, especially enchanting at sunset. The wharf is surrounded by viewing platforms, cafes, and a yacht marina, perfect for strolling, taking photos, and enjoying the scenery of the Tamsui River estuary.
Tamsui Old Street
Tamsui Old Street, located in Tamsui District, New Taipei City, is a classic tourist attraction that blends history, culture, and cuisine. Stretching along the banks of the Tamsui River, the old street retains its architectural style from the Qing Dynasty and the Japanese occupation period. Lined with traditional snack shops, handicraft stores, and nostalgic shops, the street is popular with visitors. Local delicacies such as A-gei (a type of fried dough), fish crisps, and sour plum drink are particularly beloved.
Raohe Night Market
Raohe Night Market, located in Songshan District, Taipei City, is one of Taipei's most representative traditional night markets. Stretching along Raohe Street for approximately 600 meters, the market is renowned for its concentrated food offerings and well-organized layout. Popular snacks such as pepper cakes, herbal pork rib soup, and beef skewers attract a large number of local and international tourists, making it an excellent place to experience Taipei's nightlife and street charm.
Day 4
Taipei
Zonglie Temple
The Taipei Martyrs' Shrine, standing at the foot of Dazhi Mountain, is modeled after the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the National Palace Museum, with its golden tiles and red walls, exuding a magnificent aura. It is not merely a place of architectural beauty, but a sanctuary for the soul—a memorial to the more than 400,000 martyrs who perished since the Xinhai Revolution. Every hour on the hour, the changing of the guard ceremony, a ritual of time, with its resounding steps and solemn expressions, attracts countless travelers to pause and feel the pulse of history and the weight of loyalty in its solemnity. The Martyrs' Shrine is Taipei's most serene yet most awe-inspiring chapter.
Taipei 101 Shopping Center
Taipei 101 Shopping Center, located in Taipei's Xinyi District, is one of Taiwan's most iconic high-end shopping landmarks. The mall brings together international luxury brands, designer fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products, and features several Michelin-recommended restaurants and restaurants with panoramic city views. With its modern and elegant interior design, comfortable shopping environment, and direct access to the Taipei 101 observation deck, it is a comprehensive shopping mall combining luxury shopping, gourmet dining, and city views.
Sisi South Village
44 South Village, located in Xinyi District, Taipei City, is Taiwan's first cultural park transformed from a military dependents' village. Originally housing military dependents, some old houses have been preserved and transformed into cultural and creative spaces, blending historical memory with modern design. The park features exhibition halls, cafes, and markets, frequently hosting art exhibitions and craft markets. Adjacent to Taipei 101, it's a unique attraction for experiencing Taipei's urban transformation and the culture of military dependents' villages.
Ximending
Ximending is Taipei's trendiest street scene, blending the nostalgic charm of the Japanese colonial era with modern pop culture. Neon lights flash, street performers radiate energy, and trendy shops and delicious food intertwine to create the allure of this vibrant city that never sleeps. From the movie street to the graffiti walls, every step is a visual and sensory adventure, making it a Taipei icon for the younger generation and travelers alike.
Day 5
Taipei / Return Trip
Free time
Remark
Fee included
1. Hotel accommodation, meals, itinerary, transportation fares, and tickets specified in the itinerary.
2. Airport taxes, fuel surcharges, and miscellaneous surcharges in both places.
3. Our company has purchased "Travel Industry Performance Guarantee Insurance" of RMB 43 million, "Travel Industry Liability Insurance" of RMB 5 million per person for travel accidents, RMB 200,000 for accidental medical treatment and overseas emergency assistance in accordance
with the regulations of the Tourism Bureau.
*The new travel industry liability insurance will be implemented from 2023/10/1. For those under 15 years old and over 70 years old, the insurance limit is 2.5 million.
4. Tips for tour guides and drivers.
Not included
1. The fee for applying for a passport is NT$1,700.
*The original ID card and two recent two-inch color photos with white background are required. For those who have completed their military service, the new passport must be accompanied by a discharge order. The procedures for male military servicemen to go abroad are the same as those for ordinary people.
Men who are not serving in school must first apply to the Military Service Section of the local government to obtain an official document approving the departure of men serving abroad.
Notes
1. After registration and payment, the Tourism Bureau’s overseas travel standardized contract will take effect immediately. Changes or cancellations of the itinerary will be handled according to the contents of the contract.
2. To ensure the smooth operation of the group, the company reserves the right to change or switch the itinerary. The confirmation of itinerary content, meals, flight times, arrival cities, and hotels will be based on the information provided at the final group briefing. The meals will be based on the actual meals provided by the restaurants and hotels on the day of the trip, and the room types will be based on the actual rooms available by the hotels, selected according to the order of registration.
3. If the attractions that require tickets are closed or cannot be entered due to other force majeure factors, additional paid attractions will be adjusted or refunds will be processed depending on the situation. We apologize for your understanding.
4. For military personnel, travel abroad requires approval from their unit, and the approval stamp must be affixed to their passport. Male conscripts aged 19 to 36 who have not yet served their military service require approval from their household registration office.
And the approval stamp will be stamped on the passport.
5. The minimum number of participants required for the tour to proceed is 10 people (inclusive), and the maximum number of participants is 40 people (inclusive) or less.
6. According to the regulations of the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the daily usage time of buses from departure to return to the depot shall not exceed 9 hours in order to avoid traffic problems caused by driver fatigue.
7. Seasonal attractions included in the itinerary (such as cherry blossom viewing, flower viewing, autumn foliage viewing, snow viewing, etc.) may be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances such as the actual conditions on site or weather conditions.
Make adjustments to visit appropriate sightseeing spots at the right time.
8. Group seating arrangements are subject to the airline's arrangements.
9. Tickets cannot be refunded once they have been issued.
10. Photos of attractions, hotels, and meals in the itinerary are for reference only. The scenery or dishes may vary depending on the season and the shooting angle. Please be aware of this.
11. If any participant leaves the group midway through the trip and does not participate in the contracted itinerary, it will be considered as a voluntary abandonment, and no refund will be given. We apologize for the inconvenience.
12. If the trip falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or a consecutive holiday in Taiwan, and there is severe traffic congestion or other force majeure events, the service staff will adjust the itinerary according to the situation on the ground. Some attractions may be cancelled or the stay at other attractions may be extended as an alternative without further notice.
13. The itinerary may be slightly adjusted according to the tourism situation on the day. If there are large crowds and traffic control, you will need to take a shuttle bus at your own expense. Please follow the instructions of the tour guide on the day.
13. According to the latest regulations of the Ministry of Transportation, the daily usage time of tour buses is limited to 11 hours, and tour buses must get on, off, and park in legal locations. For driving safety, all tour buses must comply with the usage regulations.
The participating stores retain the right to modify or terminate this promotion at any time.
Travel tips
1. Please wear comfortable, non-slip shoes: The itinerary includes the old town street, suspension bridge, waterfall trail and night market. It is recommended to wear light clothing and non-slip shoes to avoid falls or fatigue.
2. Night markets and old streets are mostly open for free exploration: Please bring enough cash (New Taiwan Dollars), as some vendors do not accept credit cards or mobile payments.
3. Please follow safety regulations when releasing sky lanterns and engaging in DIY activities: For activities such as making scallion pancakes and releasing sky lanterns, please follow the instructions of on-site personnel to avoid burns or dangerous operations.
4. The hot spring foot bath area is a public space: please do not use soap or detergent, and be mindful of the safety of your personal belongings.
5. Weather changes rapidly, and the itinerary may be adjusted flexibly: In case of rain or force majeure, the tour guide will adjust the itinerary as appropriate, and your cooperation is appreciated.
6. Hotel arrangements are based on the same standard; however, the actual hotel may be adjusted depending on the situation on the day. We apologize for any inconvenience.
7. Please be punctual for the meeting time: After free time, please return to the meeting point on time to avoid affecting the group's itinerary.
8. Taiwanese people are friendly and approachable, and basic English communication is not a problem: a smile and politeness are the best way to get by, and you can ask for help if you encounter any difficulties.
9. Public facilities are well-maintained and toilets are clean and readily available: Night markets, train stations, and tourist attractions often have free or coin-operated toilets. Please bring your own change and toilet paper.
10. The diet is diverse but tends to be heavy in flavor. Please be mindful of your personal eating habits and allergens. If you have any special needs, please inform the tour guide in advance.
11. The weather is changeable, so it is recommended to bring rain gear and sun protection products: it is cool in the morning and evening in northern Taiwan in autumn and winter, and it is windy in the mountains and by the sea. Please add or remove clothing as needed.
13. Respect local culture when shopping: Old streets and markets are mostly run by small businesses, so please do not haggle over prices and ask for permission before taking photos.
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A 5-day itinerary in northern Taiwan: mountain towns, coastline, and memories of military dependents' villages.
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