Discovering Taiwan

Published in the Sunday Navbharat Times on 09 February 2025

For years, Taiwan has fascinated me—a country that seamlessly blends rapid technological progress with deep-rooted traditions. As a global semiconductor powerhouse, it plays a crucial role in shaping the world’s tech landscape. It also boasts one of the fastest high-speed rail networks, whisking passengers from the north to the south in just over 90 minutes. Every time I read about Taiwan, my curiosity only grows.

And I wasn't alone. As I delved deeper into its unique offerings, armed with newfound knowledge, our product team decided to launch Veena World’s tours to Taiwan. Given its proximity and seamless connectivity with Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, and Macau, Taiwan easily fits into a multi-country itinerary for travelers seeking a well-rounded East Asian experience.

During one of the biggest travel exhibitions in Mumbai, where we had the opportunity to meet tourism partners from around the world, I eagerly made my way to the Taiwan booth. Within minutes of our conversation, I was utterly captivated by everything Taiwan has to offer.

One story particularly intrigued me—a monastery experience where you practice the Still Water Meditation experience. Chung Tai Chan Monastery, one of the largest and most prominent Buddhist monasteries in the country is known for its serene environment, Zen teachings, and meditation practices, including techniques that emphasize calming the mind—which aligns with the concept of "still water meditation."

In this meditation, practitioners sit in a quiet, reflective state while holding a bowl of water. The idea is that if the mind is truly calm and undisturbed, the water in the bowl remains still, serving as a metaphor for inner peace and mindfulness.

To explore Taiwan, you will naturally begin with its vibrant capital, Taipei. A bustling metropolis, Taipei is home to Taipei 101, which held the title of the world’s tallest tower until Dubai’s Burj Khalifa took over in 2010. The observation deck on the 89th floor offers a stunning panoramic view of the city.

Beyond its urban appeal, Taipei surprises visitors with scenic hiking trails. The Elephant Mountain Trail, a short 1.5 to 2-hour trek, is a must for those wanting the best views of Taipei 101. But that’s just the beginning—Taipei itself has over 10 hiking trails, and Taiwan’s mountainous terrain means countless trekking opportunities across the country.

To truly appreciate Taiwan’s geological wonders, head to Yehliu Geopark in the Wanli District, on the northern coast. Here, the wind and sea have sculpted extraordinary rock formations, including the famous Queen’s Head, a natural rock structure resembling Queen Elizabeth’s profile. Other formations, such as the Sea Candles, the Fairy Shoe, the Ice Cream Rock, and the Kissing Rock, create an almost otherworldly landscape.

From Yehliu, a short journey takes you to Jiufen, a picturesque hillside village that thrived during the gold mining boom of the 1940s. Its charming alleyways, red lantern-lit streets, and breathtaking views of the coastline make it one of Taiwan’s most Instagrammable spots.

Next, in Shifen, you’ll witness the stunning Shifen Waterfall, often called Taiwan’s “Little Niagara Falls”. Before leaving, experience a unique Taiwanese tradition—writing your wishes on a sky lantern and releasing it into the sky along Shifen Old Street, lined with souvenir shops and local eateries.

Back in Taipei, history and culture await at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. A visit to the National Palace Museum, home to one of the largest collections of ancient Chinese artifacts, offers a deep dive into Taiwan’s historical and artistic heritage.

Leaving Taipei, a high-speed train takes you to Taichung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, an excellent base for visiting Sun Moon Lake. This stunning alpine lake, shaped like a sun on one side and a crescent moon on the other, is surrounded by rugged mountains, Buddhist temples, and a towering pagoda.

For the best views, take the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway from Ita Thao to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. Or, explore the lake via scenic ferry rides for a breathtaking water-level perspective. Don’t miss the Ci’En Pagoda, which offers unparalleled panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Another hidden gem in Taichung is the Rainbow Village, a vibrant street art project created by an elderly war veteran, Huang Yung-Fu. Huang Yung-Fu, a former soldier, was on the verge of losing his beloved home to the developers. After almost everyone in the village left, only Huang Yung-Fu remained with 11 homes. And, what did he do next?

As a gesture of saying goodbye to his beloved home and village and to kill his time, Huang Yung-Fu began painting the inside of his home. First, it was just furniture or two. Then the artwork spread to a wall, then onto his neighbours’ abandoned homes.The artwork mostly depicts family love, friendship, happiness and nature.

What started as a farewell gesture to his home soon transformed into a colorful, open-air gallery, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Further south, Kaohsiung welcomes visitors with its seaside charm, rich culture, and incredible street art. The city’s most famous landmarks include Lotus Pond, featuring intricately designed temples and pagodas, Fo Guang Shan Monastery, one of Taiwan’s most significant Buddhist sites, Pier 2 Art Center, a vibrant street art hub filled with murals, galleries, and repurposed port warehouses, Dome of Light at Formosa Boulevard Station, the world’s largest glass artwork, a mesmerizing sight worth experiencing.

From here, you can take a ferry to Cijin Island, known for its beaches, seafood, and relaxing coastal vibe.

Heading even further south, you arrive in Kenting, Taiwan’s premier tropical destination. With year-round warm weather, sandy beaches, and lush greenery, Kenting is the perfect place to unwind. It’s also a gateway to Taiwan’s best diving spots and marine reserves.

On the eastern side of the island, Taroko National Park is home to the 18-kilometer-long Taroko Gorge, a breathtaking marble-walled canyon. Whether you’re hiking its scenic trails, marveling at its towering cliffs, or driving through tunnels carved into the rock, this is one of Taiwan’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Beyond its landscapes and temples, Taiwan offers a stunning cherry blossom season in spring, rivaling that of Japan and Korea. Additionally, cycling across Taiwan is a growing trend, thanks to the country’s well-maintained bike trails and picturesque coastal routes and you could actually circumnavigate the entire city on a Cycle.

And for vegetarians or those seeking temple food, Taiwan’s Buddhist heritage ensures an abundance of delicious plant-based cuisine.

The visa to Taiwan is quite easy to apply nd if you hold a US, Schengen, UK, Japan visa, the process is even simpler and just an online applications needed.With its fascinating blend of high-tech cities, cultural treasures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences, Taiwan is a destination that deserves to be explored. I’ve already planned my trip for March—what are you waiting for?