Taiwan is enjoying a boom in tourism, with thousands of tourists flocking to the
island’s many attractions day after day. But away from the huddled masses lies some truly breathtaking scenery, and if you’re prepared to make a little effort, you’ll find some incredible views.
Jiaming Lake
Natural Feature
Jiaming Lake
This is the second highest mountain lake in Taiwan, and at 3,520 meters above sea level it does take quite a bit of effort to get to. The old story goes that it was created by a meteor strike, but we now know that it’s more likely that it was something to do with glacial movement. Get here at the right time and you’ll enjoy some incredible scenery and although you’ll travel with a group, the feeling of isolation is pretty amazing.
Jiaming Lake, Haiduan Township, Taidong County, Taiwan
Shuiyang Forest
Forest
Shuiyang Forest
This seemingly dead forest landscape appeared after the deadly 921 earthquake, and to say the place is a little eerie would be an understatement. While you don’t get stunning vistas, this place is perfect for some early morning photography, especially if there’s some mist about.
Shuiyang Forest, Alishan Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan
Xueshan
Also known as Snow Mountain, you can guess how Taiwan’s second highest peak got its name. This is one of the most popular climbing and hiking destinations in Taiwan, and it’s easy to see why. The views up here are simply incredible, especially if you time it right and get to see some rare Taiwanese snow.
Xueshan Main Peak, Taian Township, Taichung County, Taiwan
Tianliao Moon World
What some call the badlands, Tianliao Moon World is barren strip of hilly land that resembles, yes you’ve guessed it, the moon. It doesn’t take much hiking to get there, but if you want to get the best views you’ll need to follow the trail which includes quite a few steps. It’s a short hike, but worth it just to see that grey moonscape dotted with sparse vegetation.
Tianliao Moon World, 36 Yueqiu Road, Tianliao District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
Alishan
Now this is a real tourist hotspot, but it’s worth competing with the other sightseers to get a view of the scenery that surrounds the mountain. This is a hugely popular weekend destination for the locals who get up in the small hours of the morning to see the sunrise. There are plenty of trails throughout the area where you can take a short hike to find the best of mountain’s famous views.
Alishan Scenic Area, Alishan Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan
Qixing Mountain
Located in Yangmingshan National Park, Qixing Mountain is a very popular short hike for residents of Taipei City. It’s just a short drive outside the city, and the views of the surrounding park are breathtaking. It’s really quite astounding that you can find views like these so close to the capital city.
Qixing Mountain, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan
