5-Day Best of Taiwan: Sun Moon Lake, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Hualien

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Overview

Available languages

German
Chinese (Taiwan)
Chinese
English

120 hours

Mobile ticket

From the north to the south, there is no shortage of incredible, awe-inspiring and fascinating places to discover in Taiwan. However, maximizing your vacation with limited time and budget can present a challenge.

No need to worry; we've got you covered. With this 5-day package tour of Taiwan, you'll explore all the must-see tourist spots and have the opportunity to stay in local 5-star hotels for four nights! You'll visit remarkable natural sites like Sun Moon Lake, Kenting National Park and East Coast National Scenic Area, allowing you to witness Taiwan's most spectacular natural wonders. In addition to the stunning landscapes, you'll also delve into Taiwan's diverse culture and history by exploring man-made attractions like Ci'en Pagoda, Fort Zeelandia, Fo Guang Shan Monastery, Eluanpi Lighthouse, National Center for Traditional Arts and more.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to book this 5-day Taiwan round-island tour and make the most of your Taiwan adventure!

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A small amount of walking is involved; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Ensure you carry enough cash with you to cover your expenses for meals, beverages, souvenirs, tips, etc. Convenience stores and most of the eateries in Taiwan don't accept credit cards as a form of payment.

If the German-speaking tour option is selected, our tour guide will provide simultaneous commentary in both English and German, offering a multilingual experience.

Not recommended for travelers with physical disabilities

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

What‘s Included

Professional licensed tour guide

Hotel accommodation x 4 Nights

Local transfer by air-conditioned vehicle

Local general liabilities insurance

Lunch and Dinner

Beverage

Gratuities

What To Expect

Day 1

Taipei – Sun Moon Lake / Taichung (--/--/--)

Accommodations

Fleur de Chine Hotel – Mountain View Room, Sun Moon Lake (5-star) / Le Méridien Taichung, Taichung (5-star) / equivalent

1

Sun Moon Lake

On the first morning of your Taiwan round-the-island tour, you will depart from central Taipei and travel to the heart of the island, Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area. Sun Moon Lake, the largest freshwater lake on the island, is divided by Lalu Island. The eastern side of the lake resembles the sun, while the western side resembles the crescent moon, giving the lake its unique name. This picturesque area is also the ancestral home of the Thao people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous groups. With its rich indigenous culture and abundant natural beauty, Sun Moon Lake has earned its place as one of Taiwan’s premier destinations.

1 hourAdmission Not Applicable
2

Yidashao Pier

After lunch, your journey continues with a scenic bus tour around Sun Moon Lake, where you’ll explore the most renowned attractions in this area. Begin with a visit to Ita Thao, an indigenous village that offers insights into the culture and lifestyle of the Thao people.

30 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
3

Ci'en Pagoda

Then, marvel at the grandeur of Ci’en Pagoda, an iconic Sun Moon Lake landmark constructed by the late President Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother.

30 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
4

Xuanzhuang Temple

Following your visit to Ci’en Pagoda, your exploration of Sun Moon Lake continues with stops at two significant temples. First, you’ll arrive at Xuanzang Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary dedicated to the esteemed monk Xuanzang.

30 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
5

Wen Wu Temple

Then, your journey takes you to Wenwu Temple, an imposing Taoist temple featuring three halls devoted to the Martial God and the God of Literature. With the expert commentary of your tour guide, you’ll gain deeper insights into Sun Moon Lake, enriching your appreciation of the area’s history and significance.

30 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
Day 2

Sun Moon Lake / Taichung – Tainan - Fo Guang Shan - Kaohsiung (B/--/--)

Accommodations

Grand Hilai Kaohsiung, Kaohsiung (5-star) / equivalent

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Anping Fort (Anping gubao)

Kick off the second day of your 5-day Taiwan adventure with a delightful breakfast, setting the tone for another day of exploration. Hop on the bus and make your way to Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan, celebrated for its abundance of historic buildings and profound historical heritage. Your adventure proceeds with a visit to Fort Zeelandia, constructed by the Dutch East India Company during their 38-year administration of western Taiwan. The original fortress faced near destruction by the British army in the 19th century but was subsequently rebuilt by the Japanese.

40 minutesAdmission Included
2

Anping Old Street

After exploring Fort Zeelandia, take a leisurely walk along Anping Old Street. Situated on the east side of Fort Zeelandia, this historic street was established by the Dutch over 300 years ago and holds the distinction of being the first officially named street in Taiwan. Besides its fascinating history, Anping Old Street is also known for its local specialties such as tofu pudding, shrimp rolls, fish skin dishes, beef soup, and many more. While you’re here, don’t miss the chance to savor the city’s signature delicacies, adding a delightful culinary experience to your historical journey in Tainan.

1 hour 30 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
3

Fo Guang Shan

Upon arriving in Kaohsiung, your first stop is the renowned Fo Guang Shan Monastery (FGS) or Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. Fo Guang Shan Monastery is a significant Buddhist monastery founded by the Venerable Master Hsing Yun in 1967. The monastery is most famous for its Great Buddha Land, featuring a majestic 36-meter-tall golden statue of Buddha Amitabha, which stands as the tallest standing Buddha in Southeast Asia. It is encircled by an impressive array of 480 smaller statues depicting Buddha Amitabha. The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum proudly features the largest seated statue of Buddha Amitabha. In addition to housing authentic tooth relics of Shakyamuni Buddha, the compound also includes art galleries, a theatrical auditorium, a children's gallery, and souvenir stores. In addition, visitors can get to experience Tea Zen, sutra transcription, or join in festive celebrations at the Five Harmonies Pagoda.

1 hour 30 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
Day 3

Kaohsiung – Kenting – Taitung (B/--/--)

Accommodations

Hotel Royal Chihpen, Taitung (5-star) / equivalent

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Kenting National Park

After a hearty breakfast, set out on your journey as you head south toward the border, where Taiwan’s first national park awaits. Kenting National Park is celebrated for its coastal geological formations, scenic landscapes, and rich marine biodiversity, fostered by its unique combination of crustal deformation and tropical climate. Additionally, Kenting is also a paradise for surfers and divers alike.

30 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
2

On the third day of your Taiwan-round island tour, you will make your stops at Maopitou, literally cat’s nose, aptly named as it resembles a colossal crouching cat when viewed from afar.

30 minutesAdmission Included
3

Eluanpi Lighthouse, a Qing Dynasty-era construction that was recognized as one of the Eight Views of Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period.

30 minutesAdmission Included
4

Longpan Park

Longpan Park, a coral limestone plateau overlooking the Pacific Ocean, shaped over time by rainfall erosion.

30 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
5

Chuanfan Rock, literally sail rock, another distinctive natural formation that resembles the sail of a ship or a likeness of the former US President Richard Nixon. Tonight, you'll be staying in the same hotel in Kaohsiung City, saving you the hassle of changing accommodations. Furthermore, you'll have the opportunity to explore this charming harbor city at your leisure, immersing yourself in the everyday life of the local people.

15 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
Day 4

Taitung – East Coast – Hualien – Yilan (B/--/--)

Accommodations

Wellspring by Silks Jiaoxi (5-star) / Hotel Royal Chiaohsi (5-star) / equivalent

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

Xiouyeliu

After a good night’s sleep and a delectable breakfast, your 5-day tour in Taiwan continues as you journey along the east coast, known as the last unspoiled place of the island. Wherever you go, it never ceases to amaze you with its enchanting natural beauty. You’ll visit some of the most impressive scenic spots along the way, including Xiaoyeliu, Sanxiantai, and Shitiping, each boasting its own distinctive geological features. The first stop is Xiaoyehliu (literally “Little Yehliu, or officially “Fugang Geopark”). This area is known for its natural rock formations, resembling those found in Yehliu Geopark on the northern coast of Taiwan, hence the name. Here, you can get up close to these unique landforms, shaped over time by weathering and sea erosion.

40 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
2

Sanxiantai

Your adventure continues with a visit to Sanxiantai (literally the terrace of the three immortals), which comprises an offshore island and coral reefs, with a cross-sea bridge that connects the mainland to the island, serving as a prominent landmark in the East Coast National Scenic Area.

40 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
3

Shihtiping

After exploring Sanxiantai, you will make a stop at Shitiping (literally stone steps). This area is a well-developed sea erosion terrace, featuring promontories along the coastline that have been eroded by sea water over millions of years. This natural process has created an abrasion platform, sea grooves, sea cliffs, and potholes, making Shitiping a world-class outdoor geology classroom. From Hualien to Yilan, you will experience one-way comfortable train ride. Tonight, you’ll stay at a 5-star hot-spring hotel in Jiaoxi.

40 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
Day 5

Yilan – Taipei (B/--/--)

Food and Drinks

BREAKFAST

Breakfast

1

King Car Kavalan Distillery

After enjoying hotel breakfast, get ready for the last day of your five-day island tour. Today, the guide will take you to visit the King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery and the National Center for Traditional Arts. Start the day with visit to “King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery”, known worldwide for its exquisite flavors brewed from the clear water sources of the Central Mountain Range and the Xueshan Mountain Range. Immerse yourself in the rich aroma of whisky and experience the unique flavors nurtured in oak barrels, embarking on a fascinating distillery exploration journey.

1 hour 30 minutesAdmission Not Applicable
2

National Center for Traditional Arts

Continue to visit "National Center for Traditional Arts", a vast park featuring various exquisite traditional Taiwanese buildings. Here you can immerse yourselves in Taiwan's rich heritage through exhibitions, performances, and workshops. From puppet shows to pottery making, there's something for everyone. Conclude your unforgettable 5-day round island tour by taking bus back to Taipei City. You will be dropped off at your hotel or designated drop-off point.

3 hoursAdmission Included

Options

German-English | Double Room

Bedding: 1 bed that sleeps 2
German-English Bilingual Guide: Enjoy a multilingual experience as our tour guide provides simultaneous commentary in both German and English.
Odd Number of Travelers: If you place the booking with odd number of travelers, 1 triple room will be arranged.
Pickup included

German-English | Twin Room

Bedding: 2 beds in 1 room
German-English Bilingual Guide: Enjoy a multilingual experience as our tour guide provides simultaneous commentary in both German and English.
Odd Number of Travelers: If you place the booking with odd number of travelers, 1 triple room will be arranged.
Pickup included

German-English | Single Room

1 bed for 1 person
German-English Bilingual Guide: Enjoy a multilingual experience as our tour guide provides simultaneous commentary in both German and English.
Pickup included

English | Single Room

1 bed for 1 person
English-speaking Guide
Pickup included

English | Triple Room

Bedding: Subject to availability, the extra bedding might be mixed with sofa bed or roller bed.
Guide: English-speaking Guide
Even Number of Travelers: If you place the booking with even number of travelers, some rooms might be double rooms or twin rooms.
Pickup included

German-English | Triple Room

Bedding: Subject to availability, the extra bedding might be mixed with sofa bed or roller bed.
German-English Bilingual Guide: Enjoy a multilingual experience as our tour guide provides simultaneous commentary in both German and English.
Even Number of Travelers: If you place the booking with even number of travelers, some rooms might be double rooms or twin rooms.
Pickup included

English | Twin Room

2 beds in 1 room
English-speaking Guide
Odd Number of Travelers: If you place the booking with odd number of travelers, 1 triple room will be arranged.
Pickup included

English | Double Room

1 bed that sleeps 2
English-speaking Guide
Odd Number of Travelers: If you place the booking with odd number of travelers, 1 triple room will be arranged.
Pickup included

Reviews

4.78

521 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

431
71
14
5
0
  • The best of exploring Taiwan

    GeorgeS B,

    Jun 23, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    We have a wonderful time and memorable great experience with this tour. Alan Chou, our tour guide was funny and no boredom along the way. He is knowledgeable and very detailed about the history and also he recommends places where to eat. The hotels were all amazing and the places were picturesque. The pacific coast and landscaping was truly spectacular. I’m glad that I picked this trip. We’re 36 in this group and Alan managed it well. I wish to do this again with my husband. Thank you for this memorable trip to Taiwan.

  • Don’t miss it.

    Arijit M,

    Jun 7, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Awesome. Never miss it. Our tour guide Ciao was excellent. Explained everything very well. Good knowledge sharing about Taiwan and people there.

  • Nice experience to explore greater Taiwan

    David G,

    May 19, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Allan was a fantastic guide. His teacher/military experience enhanced the value for all travellers. We were hesitant to do a five day long tour, but this one was particularly well organized, promoted bonding across the group, and exposed us to the country beyond Taipei in a way which added value to our overall trip. The hotels were also solid choices in great locations. Thank you for a wonderful time.

  • Fascinating and entertaining trip topped with abundant Taiwanese history

    Rachel C,

    May 11, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    One of the best organised tour I experienced. Chia hao (aka Ciao) was so knowledgeable on Taiwan history, the whole trip was so smooth and well organised, he is quite faultless. We felt safe and relaxed and well informed throughout the trip.

  • One of the best tours I’ve ever done!

    irongirlchris,

    Apr 13, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    This was such a great experience of Taiwan! Alan is one of the best tour guides I’ve experienced in my travels. He was humorous, friendly, and informative. The pace was perfect, not too much and not too little. The hotels stays were excellent. I highly recommend this tour.

From USD 715

4.78
521 reviews