Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime that won’t dent your bank account? Think Taiwan, a country full of life—the island nation that uniquely combines rich traditional culture with beautiful natural scenery and modern cities. Let us guide you through the best that Taiwan has to offer—from bustling night markets to secluded hiking trails—all on a broke budget that will not leave your pocket empty. Join me for the ups and downs of broke backpacking in Taiwan, and why this amazing destination should be at the top of every traveler’s bucket list.
How to get there:
From China:
- Take a ferry from Xiamen or Fuzhou to Kinmen Island, then transfer to another ferry to Taiwan’s main island.
- Alternatively, fly from major Chinese cities like Shanghai or Beijing to Taipei.
From Japan:
- Take a flight from Tokyo or Osaka to Taipei (approximately 2.5 hours).
- Or, take a ferry from Okinawa to Keelung, Taiwan (around 24 hours).
From Hong Kong or Macau:
- Fly from Hong Kong or Macau to Taipei (around 1.5 hours).
From South Korea:
- Fly from Seoul to Taipei (approximately 2.5 hours).
From the Philippines:
- Fly from Manila to Taipei (around 2 hours).
When to go:
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Mild temperatures, gentle breezes, and cherry blossoms!
- Pros: Comfortable hiking weather, festivals like Lantern Festival and Cherry Blossom Festival.
- Cons: Peak tourist season, higher prices.
Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Hot, humid, and occasional typhoons.
- Pros: Beach destinations like Kenting and Green Island, outdoor festivals.
- Cons: Sweltering heat, crowds, and higher prices.
Autumn (September to November)
- Weather: Warm days, cool nights, and stunning fall foliage.
- Pros: Ideal hiking weather, harvest festivals, and comfortable city exploration.
- Cons: Some attractions may be closed for maintenance.
Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Cool to cold temperatures, occasional snow in the mountains.
- Pros: Hot springs, winter hiking, and lower prices.
- Cons: Some attractions may be closed, chilly weather.
Shoulder Season (April to May and September to November)
- The sweet spot for broke backpackers! Enjoy mild weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices.
Best Itineraries:
1-Week Itinerary: Taiwan Highlights
- Day 1-2: Taipei (explore the city, night markets, and Elephant Mountain)
- Day 3-4: Sun Moon Lake (take a bus, hike, and enjoy the scenic lake)
- Day 5: Tainan (visit ancient city, Fort Zeelandia, and try local snacks)
- Day 6-7: Kaohsiung ( Lotus Pond, Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, and night markets)
2-Weeks Itinerary: Taiwan Explorer
- Day 1-3: Taipei (city exploration, hot springs, and Yangmingshan National Park)
- Day 4-6: Taroko National Park (hike, marble gorge, and indigenous culture)
- Day 7-9: Taitung (surfing, beach relaxation, and scenic coastal highway)
- Day 10-12: Kaohsiung ( Lotus Pond, Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, and night markets)
- Day 13-14: Sun Moon Lake (hike, boat ride, and scenic views)
1-Month Itinerary: Taiwan Adventurer
- Week 1: Taipei (explore the city, Yangmingshan National Park, and hot springs)
- Week 2: East Coast (Taroko National Park, Taitung, and surfing)
- Week 3: South Taiwan (Kaohsiung, Tainan, and ancient city exploration)
- Week 4: Green Island (snorkeling, diving, and beach relaxation)
Transportation:
Modes of Transportation:
- Metro (MRT): Taipei and Kaohsiung have extensive metro systems.
- Bus: An extensive network covering cities and rural areas.
- Train (TRA): Connects major cities, with scenic routes like the East Coast line.
- High-Speed Rail (HSR): Links Taipei to Kaohsiung in just 2 hours.
- Ferry: Connects coastal towns and outlying islands.
Using Public Transportation:
- Buy an EasyCard: A prepaid card for convenient travel on metro, bus, and train.
- Download the Taiwan Trip Planner app: Plan routes and check schedules.
- Learn basic Chinese phrases: Help you communicate with locals.
- Check signs and announcements: English translations are often available.
Tips and Reminders:
- Peak hours: Avoid traveling during rush hour (7-9 am, 4-7 pm).
- Night buses: Limited services, plan ahead.
- Train reservations: Book in advance for popular routes.
- Ferry schedules: Check weather conditions and schedules.
Fares and Discounts:
- Single ride: NT$20-65 (approx. USD $0.70-2.20)
- EasyCard discounts: 10-20% off individual fares
- Student and senior discounts: Available with valid ID
Top things to do:
Northern Taiwan:
- Elephant Mountain (Taipei): Hike for panoramic city views
- Shilin Night Market (Taipei): Try street food and local snacks
- Jiufen Old Street (New Taipei): Explore historic mining town
- Yangmingshan National Park (Taipei): Hot springs and hiking trails
- Longshan Temple (Taipei): Historic temple and cultural hub
- Beitou Hot Springs (Taipei): Soak in natural hot springs
- Keelung Night Market (Keelung): Try street food and local snacks
- Yehliu Geopark (New Taipei): Unique geological formations
- Tamsui Old Street (New Taipei): Explore historic town and waterfront
- Danshui Fisherman’s Wharf (New Taipei): Scenic waterfront and seafood
- Jinguashi (New Taipei): Historic mining town and scenic coastal views
- Wulai (New Taipei): Scenic town with hiking trails and waterfalls
Central Taiwan:
- Sun Moon Lake (Nantou): Scenic lake and hiking trails
- Taichung Night Market (Taichung): Try street food and local snacks
- Taroko National Park (Taichung): Marble gorge and hiking trails
- Lukang Old Street (Changhua): Explore historic town and temples
- Chung Tai Chan Monastery (Nantou): Impressive Buddhist monastery
- Puli Town (Nantou): Scenic town with hiking trails and waterfalls
- Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area (Nantou): Scenic forest and hiking trails
- Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village (Nantou): Learn about indigenous culture
- Cingjing Farm (Nantou): Scenic farm with sheep and hiking trails
- Taichung Metropolitan Park (Taichung): Scenic park with hiking trails and lake
- Dakeng Scenic Area (Taichung): Scenic hiking trails and waterfalls
- Fengjia Night Market (Taichung): Try street food and local snacks
Southern Taiwan:
- Kenting National Park (Pingtung): Beaches and scenic coastal highway
- Tainan Night Market (Tainan): Try street food and local snacks
- Fort Zeelandia (Tainan): Historic Dutch fort
- Dragon and Tiger Pagodas (Kaohsiung): Colorful temples
- Lotus Pond (Kaohsiung): Scenic pond with temples and walking trails
- Cijin Island (Kaohsiung): Beaches and seafood
- Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts (Kaohsiung): Explore local art
- Tainan Flower Night Market (Tainan): Try street food and local snacks
- Anping Fort (Tainan): Historic Dutch fort
- Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum (Chiayi): Explore art and history
- Alishan National Scenic Area (Chiayi): Scenic mountains and hiking trails
- Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum (Kaohsiung): Impressive Buddhist monastery
Eastern Taiwan:
- Taroko National Park (Hualien): Marble gorge and hiking trails
- Surfing in Taitung: Ride the waves
- Green Island (Taitung): Snorkeling and diving
- East Coast National Scenic Area (Hualien): Scenic coastal highway
- Hualien Night Market (Hualien): Try street food and local snacks
- Shihtiping (Hualien): Scenic coastal town with hiking trails
- Taitung Forest Park (Taitung): Scenic forest with hiking trails
- Jhiben Hot Springs (Taitung): Soak in natural hot springs
- Taitung Museum of Art (Taitung): Explore local art
- Chenggong Night Market (Taitung): Try street food and local snacks
- Amis Folk Center (Hualien): Learn about indigenous culture
- Ruisui Ranch (Hualien): Scenic ranch with hiking trails and waterfalls
Outlying Islands:
- Green Island (Taitung): Snorkeling and diving
- Orchid Island (Taitung): Scenic island with hiking trails and waterfalls
- Kinmen Island (Fujian): Historic island with beaches and fortresses
- Matsu Islands (Fujian): Scenic islands with hiking trails and historic sites
- Penghu Islands (Penghu): Scenic islands with beaches and hiking trails
Food:
Taiwan was one big food explosion for a broke backpacker. The steaming bowls of beef noodle soup to the crispiest, most flavorful stinky tofu were just great activities, a flavor bomb each.
My culinary journey began at the night markets, where itinerant purveyors of street food dish out every manner of deliciousness for a fraction of what one would pay in a restaurant. I gorged on oyster omelets, fried chicken cutlets, and sticky rice balls, sweetly flavored—all for under $5.
But the food scene in Taiwan extends far beyond street food. I had discovered secret restaurants—small family-owned places that served up authentic homemade dishes, such as braised pork belly and stir-fried greens. And here is the best part: most meals are under $10.
A visit to Taiwan would not be complete without sampling this world-renowned beef noodle soup. Rich, savory broth filled with tender chunks of beef and springy noodles—this makes for a comfort food dish if any. At under $5 a bowl, it’s like a broke backpacker’s dream come true.
What really surprised me, though, was the quality and variety of Taiwan’s convenience store food. From freshly made sandwiches to hot, crispy fried chicken, 7-Eleven and FamilyMart turned into my go-to spots for a quick and cheap meal.
Culture:
History and Heritage
Taiwan’s cultural identity has been shaped by its complex history. The island has been inhabited by indigenous tribes for thousands of years, followed by Chinese immigration, Dutch and Spanish colonization, and Japanese rule. Each era has left an indelible mark on Taiwanese culture.
Customs and Traditions
Taiwanese customs are deeply rooted in Chinese culture, with influences from Buddhism and Taoism. Some notable traditions include:
- Lunar New Year: Celebrated with lion dances, fireworks, and family gatherings.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: Honoring the full moon with lanterns, mooncakes, and poetry.
- Ghost Month: A time for ancestor worship and spiritual cleansing.
Arts and Performance
Taiwanese arts are a testament to the island’s creativity and diversity:
- Traditional music: Encompassing folk, opera, and instrumental music.
- Dance: From classical Chinese to modern contemporary.
- Theater: Including puppet shows, shadow plays, and traditional opera.
- Visual arts: Showcasing calligraphy, painting, and sculpture.
Lifestyle and Values
Taiwanese society values:
- Respect for elders: A cornerstone of Taiwanese culture.
- Harmony and balance: Reflecting the principles of Taoism and Buddhism.
- Hospitality: Visitors are greeted with warm smiles and open arms.
- Food culture: A love for fresh ingredients, street food, and night markets.
Modern Taiwan
Taiwan’s modern culture is a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements:
- Pop culture: Influenced by K-pop, J-pop, and Western music.
- Fashion: A blend of streetwear, high-end fashion, and traditional attire.
- Technology: Taiwan is a hub for innovation and gadgetry.
Accommodations:
Northern Taiwan:
- Best Hostel: Meander Taipei Hostel (Taipei) – cozy, central, and friendly
- Party Hostel: Ximen Wow Hostel (Taipei) – vibrant, social, and party-centric
- Relaxed Hostel: JiuFen Old Street Hostel (New Taipei) – tranquil, scenic, and cultural
Central Taiwan:
- Best Hostel: Taichung Hostel (Taichung) – modern, clean, and convenient
- Party Hostel: The Dali Hostel (Taichung) – lively, social, and pub-crawl ready
- Relaxed Hostel: Puli Hostel (Nantou) – serene, natural, and scenic
Southern Taiwan:
- Best Hostel: Kaohsiung Hostel (Kaohsiung) – comfortable, central, and friendly
- Party Hostel: The Island Hostel (Kaohsiung) – beachy, social, and party-vibes
- Relaxed Hostel: Tainan Hostel (Tainan) – historic, cultural, and laid-back
Eastern Taiwan:
- Best Hostel: Hualien Hostel (Hualien) – modern, clean, and convenient
- Party Hostel: The Taroko Hostel (Hualien) – adventurous, social, and scenic
- Relaxed Hostel: Green Island Hostel (Taitung) – serene, natural, and snorkeler’s paradise
Outlying Islands:
- Best Hostel: Penghu Hostel (Penghu) – scenic, beachy, and relaxed
- Party Hostel: Kinmen Hostel (Kinmen) – vibrant, social, and cultural
- Relaxed Hostel: Matsu Hostel (Matsu) – tranquil, natural, and scenic
Nightlife:
Taipei:
- Party Area: Ximending – Taipei’s answer to Tokyo’s Shibuya
- Bars:
- Revolver: Live music and craft beer
- Alchemy: Cocktails and speakeasy vibes
- The Wall: Live music and indie scene
- Ounce: Craft beer and pub grub
- Mikkeller Taipei: Craft beer and Danish vibes
- Clubs:
- OMNI: Top DJs and high-energy parties
- WAVE: Underground techno and house
- KOR: Hip-hop and R&B
- LUXY: High-end clubbing experience
Taichung:
- Party Area: Fengjia Night Market – food, drinks, and games
- Bars:
- The Dali: Pub-crawl central
- Forro Cafe: Live music and drinks
- 1982 Cafe: Retro vibes and cocktails
- The Loft: Live music and indie scene
- Vinyl Cafe: Vinyl records and coffee
- Clubs:
- The Cave: Underground rock and indie
- The Room: Hip-hop and R&B
- The Box: Underground techno and house
Kaohsiung:
- Party Area: Liuhe Night Market – street food and drinks
- Bars:
- The Island: Beachy vibes and cocktails
- The Brickyard: Live music and craft beer
- 85 Sky Tower Bar: Rooftop views and drinks
- The Roof: Rooftop bar and live music
- InHouse: Cocktails and speakeasy vibes
- Clubs:
- LUXY: Top DJs and high-energy parties
- The Box: Underground techno and house
- The Factory: Underground rock and indie
Tainan:
- Party Area: Tainan Flower Night Market – food, drinks, and games
- Bars:
- The Tavern: Pub-crawl central
- The Old Street Bar: Live music and drinks
- Art Bar: Cocktails and art exhibitions
- Clubs:
- The Factory: Underground rock and indie
- The Studio: Hip-hop and R&B
Taiwan is worthily the dreamland of any cheaply traveling individual who wishes to go broke backpacking. Affordable accommodation, delicious street food, and convenient public transportation would ideally make Taiwan a country where people want to travel without making a hole in their wallet.
From the metropolitan city of Taipei to the scenic coastal towns of Kenting, Taiwan knows no bounds when it comes to offering diversity to the different kinds of travelers. Whether you consider yourself a foodie, an adventure seeker, or any other kind of traveler, Taiwan will certainly not disappoint in being a treasure trove of experience.
So if you’re ready for adventure but are looking to do it on the cheap, then Taiwan will be the perfect destination for you. In fact, ever since that moment, one of the countries most steeped in tradition, modernity, beauty, and hospitality, Taiwan, will always stay in your memories.
