Epic Places In Taiwan Even Locals Don't Know About

Taiwan is home to some incredible national parks that boast amazing scenery but there are some places hidden in the hills and valleys that even the locals don’t know about. Here are some of the very best locations that offer a secret piece of paradise right here in Taiwan.

1. Wuchong Waterfall

The village of Wulai is a major tourist attraction throughout the year and the many hot spring hotels dotted around the area make it a great place for a relaxing afternoon. But while many know of Wulai Waterfall, you won’t see too many people a little further down the road at Wuchong Waterfall. It’s the perfect outdoor shower and an ideal spot for some great photos.

Wuchong Waterfall, Wulai District, New Taipei City, Taiwan

Wuchong Waterfall | © y . I yeh / Flickr

2. Mukumugi

It’s rather unbelievable that a small valley located just 20km outside Hualien and within driving distance of Taroko Gorge can be so secluded and idyllic. This quiet little spot is a haven for those that want to get off the beaten track and enjoy Taiwan’s finest scenery and nature in relative peace and quiet.

Mukumugi, Tongmen, Xiulin Township, Hualien County, Taiwan

Mukumugi | © Ming-yen Hsu / Flickr

3. Tianliao Moon World

There’s no prizes for guessing how this place got its unusual name. It’s a strikingly barren looking area that some call the Badlands but Moon World sounds so much nicer. It’s quite popular with locals around Kaohsiung but not so much with tourists from the rest of Taiwan and beyond, simply because many don’t know about it. It’s an intriguing place to visit with scenery that is in complete contrast to Taiwan’s usually lush landscapes.

Tianliao Moon World, 36 Yueqiu Road, Tianliao District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan

Tianliao Moon World | © Black9869184 / Wikimedia

5. Qicai Lake

A popular destintation for mountain climbers but not so popular that the tourist masses have made their way there. This lake is only eight meters deep but it’s the water’s color that gives it the nickname Rainbow Lake. When the sun shines, the water glows with a myriad of colors that really are quite magical.

Qicai Lake, Wanrong Township, Hualien County, Taiwan

Qicaihu | © Ben Cheng / Flickr

6. Minxiong Ghost House

While not quite on the same level of epicness as our mountain lakes above, this abandoned house is an intriguing place to visit and a must-see for those who like a bit of creepiness on their day trips. Located in the Chiayi countryside, the place was formerly known as the Liu Family mansion and was abandoned in the 1950s. There are so many local myths surrounding the place that it’s near impossible to figure out exactly why it was abandoned but whatever happened there, the locals avoid it at all costs.

Minxiong Ghost House, Minxiong Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan

Minxiong Ghost House | © Bunkichi Chang / Flickr

7. Shuiyang Forest

Forest, Natural Feature

Camping under the moon at Shuiyang Forest

This eery forest is the result of a terrible landslide that occured after the major earthquake that hit the island in 1999. Set in Alishan Township, it’s a nice destination for a camping trip (if you can handle the feeling that you’re in a haunted forest!).

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