Today you will at Taipei. As you exit customs, your private driver-guide will greet you, ready to ensure a seamless transfer to your luxurious accommodation, the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Hotel. This stunning hotel blends classic elegance with modern comforts, providing a serene retreat amid the hustle and bustle of Taipei. After checking in, you may choose to unwind in your beautifully appointed Deluxe Room or explore the immediate surroundings of this vibrant metropolis.

Start your first full day in Taipei with a comprehensive guided tour that will immerse you in the city’s rich history, culture, and modern marvels. Your day begins at the iconic Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, a towering symbol of Taiwan's political history, dedicated to the former president of the Republic of China. The complex includes a museum detailing Chiang’s life and achievements, as well as beautifully landscaped gardens.

Next, you’ll visit the famous Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world. A trip to the 89th-floor observatory rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s skyline, a stunning combination of modern skyscrapers and traditional temples. In the afternoon, stop by the Martyrs’ Shrine, a grand memorial dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives for Taiwan. Be sure to witness the impressive changing of the guards ceremony.

Finally, explore the vast collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts at the National Palace Museum, home to one of the largest collections in the world. To wrap up the day, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Shilin Night Market, the largest night market in Taipei, where you can sample delicious Taiwanese street food such as stinky tofu, bubble tea, and scallion pancakes.

Today, venture north to the stunning Yangmingshan National Park, a natural paradise known for its lush landscapes, hot springs, and volcanic activity. Your guide will introduce you to the park's highlights, including geothermal geysers, sulfur vents, and tranquil hiking trails. As you explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, keep an eye out for rare bird species and vibrant cherry blossoms (if visiting in spring).

After an invigorating morning of sightseeing, you’ll head to the tranquil Marshall Zen Garden Restaurant in Beitou for a traditional Taiwanese lunch. Surrounded by serene gardens, this dining experience offers not only gourmet dishes but also the option to indulge in a private hot spring bath—a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate.

The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure. You can return to your hotel to enjoy its world-class amenities, perhaps indulging in a spa treatment, or take a leisurely stroll through Taipei's vibrant streets to absorb the local culture.

This morning, your private driver will escort you to Taipei Main Station, where you’ll board the Puyuma Express Train bound for Taitung. This scenic train ride offers breathtaking views of Taiwan’s east coast, passing through lush mountains, verdant valleys, and charming coastal towns.

Upon arrival in Taitung, your guide will take you on a brief tour of the Peinan Cultural Park, an important archaeological site that offers insight into the indigenous cultures of Taiwan. Then, you’ll continue to Chihpen, a town famous for its natural hot springs. Check into the luxurious Hotel Royal Chihpen, where you can relax in the hot spring baths and take in the tranquil surroundings of Taiwan’s eastern mountains.

Today’s adventure takes you into the heart of Taiwan’s stunning East Rift Valley, a region celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, rich agriculture, and unique biodiversity. The valley is flanked by the Coastal Mountain Range and the Central Mountain Range, creating a corridor of breathtaking scenery. With your guide, you can explore this area by car, or if you’re feeling adventurous, by foot or bicycle along the Yuli Bikeway, a 10km stretch that weaves through rural fields and scenic landscapes.

You’ll have the opportunity to discover the valley’s towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and fertile farmlands, where rice paddies and tea plantations create a patchwork of green. Enjoy lunch at a local spot before continuing your exploration of this magnificent region.

After breakfast, embark on a spectacular coastal drive along Highway 11, which hugs Taiwan’s rugged eastern coastline. As you make your way north towards Taroko National Park, you’ll have the chance to stop at several natural landmarks, including the fascinating rock formations of Xiaoyeliu and the scenic Sanxiantai Island. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Tropic of Cancer marker, a symbol of Taiwan’s subtropical location, and the unique coastal terraces at Shitiping.

Arrive at Taroko National Park in the late afternoon and check into the luxurious Silks Place Hotel, nestled within the dramatic gorge. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the hotel, surrounded by the majestic cliffs and the soothing sound of the Liwu River.

Prepare for an unforgettable day exploring the world-famous Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan’s most iconic natural wonders. Carved by the Liwu River, this marble gorge is renowned for its towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters. Begin your day at the Gorge Gateway, an impressive entrance to this magnificent park, followed by a visit to the serene Eternal Spring Shrine, which commemorates the workers who lost their lives building the Central Cross-Island Highway.

Continue to Buluowan, an important cultural site of the indigenous Taroko Aboriginal Tribe, where you’ll learn about their traditions and lifestyle. The park also offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy strolls to more challenging treks through the gorge’s stunning landscapes. Whether you choose to hike or simply soak in the views, today promises to be a day filled with natural beauty and cultural discovery.

Today, you’ll embark on one of Taiwan’s most scenic drives, crossing the Central Cross-Island Highway, which winds through lush mountain ranges and past stunning vistas. Along the way, you’ll stop at various viewpoints to take in the awe-inspiring scenery. As you reach Cingjing, a highland area known for its cool climate and pastoral charm, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its rolling green hills and perhaps even spot some of the local sheep grazing.

Arrive at the tranquil Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan’s most beautiful natural attractions, and check into the luxurious Lalu Hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure, giving you time to explore the area or simply relax by the lake.

Begin your day with a serene exploration of Sun Moon Lake, surrounded by lush mountains and dotted with temples and pagodas. Your guide will take you to the key sites around the lake, including the majestic Wenwu Temple, dedicated to Confucius and military heroes, the historic Tehua Village, and the scenic Tse-En Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the entire lake.

For a more active experience, consider renting bicycles and riding along the scenic cycling trails that wind around the lake. Alternatively, hike through the surrounding hills, where you’ll encounter hidden temples and scenic viewpoints that offer a tranquil escape into nature.

After a peaceful morning by the lake, set off on a journey through Taiwan’s western landscapes toward Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan and a treasure trove of history and culture. En route, stop at Jiji to visit the famous Wuchang Temple, a symbol of resilience after surviving the devastating 1999 earthquake. Arrive in Tainan and check into the elegant Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza, where you’ll be staying in a Deluxe Room.

Today, delve into the rich history of Tainan, a city steeped in culture and tradition. Begin your guided tour at the Chihkan Towers, originally a 17th-century Dutch fortress known as Fort Provintia, now transformed into a beautiful example of Qing Dynasty architecture. Next, visit the Kung Miao, Taiwan’s oldest Confucian temple, where you’ll gain insight into traditional Taiwanese education and philosophy.

Your tour continues at Fort Zeelandia, also known as Anping Fort, another significant Dutch fortress that played a crucial role in Taiwan’s colonial past. The day offers a fascinating journey through Taiwan’s complex history, with plenty of opportunities to explore Tainan’s charming streets and sample its famed local cuisine.

Today’s journey takes you to the spiritual heart of Taiwan, the Fo Guang Shan Monastery, one of the most important centers of Buddhism in the country. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a member of the monastic community, who will guide you through the sprawling complex. Explore the temple’s stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and the awe-inspiring Amitabha Buddha statue, standing 36 meters high and surrounded by 480 smaller Buddha statues.

After your visit, continue south to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city. Stop by the scenic Lotus Pond, famous for its vibrant pagodas and temples, before checking into the luxurious Ambassador Hotel in Kaohsiung, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the harbour.

Today, you’ll take a short ferry ride to Cijin Island, a charming island just off the coast of Kaohsiung. Famous for its fresh seafood and beautiful coastal scenery, Cijin Island is best explored by foot or bicycle. Visit the Cijin Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the ocean, and stop by the Matsu Temple, a sacred site dedicated to the goddess of the sea.

Take some time to relax on the island’s sandy beaches or enjoy a seafood feast at one of the many local restaurants on Seafood Street. After your day of exploration, return to Kaohsiung for a relaxing evening at your hotel.

After breakfast, your private driver will transfer you to Kaohsiung Airport for your flight home. Reflect on the incredible experiences of your journey through Taiwan, from its bustling cities and cultural landmarks to its breathtaking natural wonders. Your flight departs from Kaohsiung, with a stopover, before continuing to NEW YORK
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