Taiwan Itinerary: Independent Travel in Taichung
Taichung’s MRT and bus routes are not as dense as Taipei’s. There are many interesting attractions in Taichung. In addition to tourist attractions in Taichung city and surrounding areas, there are also various attractions in the suburbs of Taichung.
If you want to go to the suburbs, you can only rent a motorcycle or car to get there more conveniently. Since you are not familiar with public transportation, your round trip transportation may take up to 3-4 hours. If time is limited, it is recommended to take a one-day tour, which is simpler, more convenient and safer.
(Source:Taiwan gov)
Taichung Itinerary: Day 1
► Arrival Taoyuan Airport MRT transfer to ► Taoyuan HSR Station ► Taiwan High Speed Rail ► Taichung HSR Station ► Taichung MRT ► Check in or Luggage storage
3, 4, 5 Days Itinerary for Taiwan allows you to experience the best of the city, from its historical landmarks, culture, nature, and modern attractions to vibrant markets, scenic views, and delicious food. Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your trip in Taichung. This is my recommended, suggested, or sample itinerary for Taiwan. Enjoy your trip to Taiwan.
▼ 09:30-11:00 Maple Garden
▼11:30-13:00 National Taichung Theater
●13:00-15:00 Lunch: Top City Taichung Store, Rest and Transportation
▼15:00-19:00 Gaomei Wetlands
● 18:00- 20:00 Dinner: Taiwan Night Markets: Yizhong Street Night Market
Start your journey in Taichung.
▼ Maple Garden: Maple Garden (Autumn Red Valley Square) is a beautifully designed urban park located in the Xitun District of Taichung, Taiwan. Known for its lush greenery, peaceful atmosphere, and impressive landscapes, this park is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors who want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle while staying close to the heart of Taichung.
▼ National Taichung Theater: The National Taichung Theater, located in Taichung, Taiwan, is an iconic cultural landmark known for its striking architecture and world-class performances. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Toyo Ito, the theater features a futuristic, organic design with smooth, flowing curves and an innovative, acoustically advanced interior. Opened in 2016, it hosts a variety of performances, including opera, theater, dance, and music, offering a platform for both local and international artists. The theater also includes exhibition spaces, cafes, and a public plaza, making it a vibrant hub for the arts and a must-visit destination for culture lovers in Taichung.
▼ Day Tour Gaomei Wetlands (Taichung): Gaomei Wetlands, located in Taichung, Taiwan, is a scenic coastal area renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. The wetlands feature expansive tidal flats, shallow waters, and a unique ecosystem that attracts a wide variety of bird species, particularly migratory birds. It is a popular spot for birdwatching, photography, and leisurely walks along its wooden boardwalk, which offers panoramic views of the wetlands and the distant mountains. Visitors can also enjoy the picturesque sunset views over the horizon. With its serene atmosphere and natural charm, Gaomei Wetlands is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Taichung Itinerary: Day 2
● Breakfast:
▼ 09:00-10:30 Rainbow Village
▼ 11:00-12:30 Shenji New Village
● 12:30-14:30 Lunch: Shenji New Village, Rest and Transportation
▼ 14:30-15:30 Miyahara
▼ 15:30-16:00 Mochi at Joy-Way Mochi
▼ Walk along the Liuchuan Riverside (You may consider)
▼ 16:30-18:00 Taichung Park
● 18:00- 20:00 Dinner: Taiwan Night Markets: Yizhong Street Night Market
Start your journey in Taichung.
▼ 09:00-10:30 Rainbow Village: Rainbow Village was originally a military dependents’ village, home to veterans and their families, but it was transformed into a living artwork thanks to one man’s creativity and persistence. Rainbow Village is a colorful, charming spot that blends art, history, and community spirit. Whether you’re a fan of street art, interested in Taiwan’s history, or just looking for a fun place to explore, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of Taichung.
▼ 11:00-12:30 Shenji New Village: Shenji New Village is a charming cultural and creative space located in West District, Taichung City. Originally built in the 1960s as housing for civil servants working for the Audit Department, the village was once a quiet residential area. Over time, as the city evolved and the government offices relocated, the area was left largely unused—until its recent transformation. Today, Shenji New Village is a revitalized creative hub, home to a lively mix of independent boutiques, artisan workshops, cafes, and art spaces.
▼ 14:30-15:30 Miyahara: Miyahara is a well-known landmark in Taichung, Taiwan, that blends history, culture, and delicious food. Originally built in 1927, it was initially a Japanese eye clinic during the colonial period. Today, it has transformed into a beautifully restored building that houses a stylish and nostalgic space offering a variety of desserts, including its famous ice cream, cakes, and chocolates.
▼ 16:30-18:00 Taichung Park: Taichung Park is one of the oldest and most iconic parks in Taichung City, Taiwan. Established in 1903 during the Japanese colonial period, it spans over 10 hectares and offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. The park features a beautiful lake with a charming pavilion known as the Lake Heart Pavilion, which has become a symbol of Taichung. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking paths, traditional bridges, lush greenery, and a variety of recreational facilities.
Taichung Itinerary: Day 3
● Breakfast: Taichung Second Market
▼10:00-16:00 Sun Moon Lake (From: Nantou Gancheng Bus Station)
● Lunch: Sun Moon Lake, Rest and Transportation
▼ If you take the bus to Sun Moon Lake, there will be a long queue after 16:30, so it is recommended to come back early.
● 18:00- 20:00 Dinner:
Start your journey in Nantou.
▼ Taichung Second Market: Taichung Second Public Market is a historic and bustling marketplace located in the heart of Taichung City, Taiwan. Established in 1917 during the Japanese colonial era, this market has grown into a cultural landmark, blending traditional flavors with local life. With its labyrinth of food stalls, specialty shops, and nostalgic architecture, it’s a haven for food lovers and history buffs alike.
▼ Sun Moon Lake (Nantou): Sun Moon Lake, located in the central mountains of Taiwan, is the largest and most scenic freshwater lake in the country. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, the lake is surrounded by lush mountains and offers stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The name “Sun Moon Lake” comes from its unique shape, with one side of the lake resembling a crescent moon and the other resembling the sun. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as cycling, boating, and hiking. The area also has cultural and historical significance, with attractions like the Wenwu Temple and the Ita Thao village, making it a beloved spot for both nature lovers and cultural explorers.
Taichung Itinerary: Day 4
● Breakfast:
▼ 09:00-10:30 Botanical Garden of National Museum of Natural Science
▼ 10:30-12:30 National Museum of Natural Science
● 12:30-13:30 Lunch, Rest and Transportation
▼13:30-14:30 Walk through Calligraphy Greenway, Taichung Civic Squar
▼14:30-17:00 National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts
● 18:00- 20:00 Dinner: Taiwan Night Markets: Feng Chia Night Market
Start your journey in Taichung.
▼ Botanical Garden of National Museum of Natural Science: The Botanical Garden of the National Museum of Natural Science in Taichung is a stunning and educational attraction that showcases a wide variety of plant species from around the world. Located adjacent to the National Museum of Natural Science, this expansive garden serves as both a recreational space and a living museum for plant enthusiasts, researchers, and nature lovers alike. Spanning over 20 hectares, the garden is divided into different thematic zones, each designed to represent a unique ecological environment.
▼ National Museum of Natural Science: The National Museum of Natural Science is one of the country’s most prominent and comprehensive museums. Established in 1986, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the natural world, from geology to biology, astronomy, and more. Its expansive exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs make it a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
▼ Calligraphy Greenway: The Calligraphy Greenway in Taichung is a scenic and vibrant urban park that stretches over 3.6 kilometers between National Museum of Natural Science and National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts. This tree-lined promenade is one of the city’s most beloved public spaces, known for its combination of green landscapes, artistic atmosphere, and cultural offerings.
▼ National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts: The National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, located in Taichung, Taiwan, is one of the country’s leading art museums. Established in 1988, it showcases a wide range of Taiwanese and international contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia works. The museum is known for its diverse exhibitions that blend traditional and modern artistic expressions. It features both permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, highlighting the talents of local artists as well as global art trends. The museum’s modern architecture and spacious galleries make it a key cultural destination for art enthusiasts and visitors interested in Taiwan’s vibrant artistic scene.
Taichung Itinerary: Day 5
● Breakfast:
▼09:00-12:00 Dakeng Hiking Trails
Start your journey in Taichung.
▼ Dakeng Hiking Trails: Dakeng Scenic Area is a popular outdoor destination in Taichung, Taiwan, known for its breathtaking views, lush forests, and extensive network of hiking trails. Located in the northeastern part of Taichung, Dakeng offers visitors a perfect combination of nature, scenic beauty, and adventure. Whether you’re an experienced hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Dakeng provides a refreshing and immersive experience, with trails that lead you through forests, up to mountain peaks, and across panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
If you are interested in Alishan and Yushan, you may consider these tours.
✅ Alishan Multi-Day Tour and Yushan Hiking Tour
■ Chiayi Alishan Day Tour & Multi-Day Tour (From Chiayi)
■ Chiayi Alishan & Nantou Sun Moon Lake 3-day tour (From Taipei)
■ 2D1N or 2D2N Yushan Hiking Tour in Nantou
■ Nantou｜Three Peaks of Hehuan Mountain & Little Qilai Prairie 2 Days 1 Night Mountaineering Tour
Attraction Tickets in Taichung
Day Tour from Taichung
You can plan which transportation to take based on where you live. If you want to go to the suburbs, you can only rent a motorcycle or car to get there more conveniently. Since you are not familiar with public transportation, your round trip transportation may take up to 3-4 hours. If time is limited, it is recommended to take a one-day tour, which is simpler, more convenient and safer.
I recommend taking a day tour. This way you can have fun without worrying about which station to get off and transfer to another bus, and then you can sleep peacefully on the car. For convenience, almost all Foreign tourists will choose a day tour or rent a car and let the driver go to destination. Don’t doubt it, one-day tour is your best choice.
Taiwan Itinerary for 3-7 Days, or 2, 3 weeks
- 5 Days Itinerary for Taiwan
- 6 Days Itinerary for Taiwan
- 7 Days Itinerary for Taiwan
- 8 Days Itinerary for Taiwan
- 10 Days Itinerary for Taiwan
- 14 Days Itinerary for Taiwan
- 3 days Itinerary in Taipei
- 4 days Itinerary in Taipei
- 5 days Itinerary in Taipei
- 3 days Itinerary in Taichung
- 4 days Itinerary in Taichung
- 3 day Itinerary in Kaohsiung
- 4 day Itinerary in Kaohsiung
- 3 days itinerary in Hualien
How many days in Taiwan is enough?
5 to 14 days of self-guided tours are the ideal amount of time to experience Taiwan, but five days only allows you to visit Taipei and New Taipei City. If you have 7 to 10 days, you can experience the three additional cities of Taichung, Nantou, or Kaohsiung. If you want to travel around Taiwan, two weeks is a good choice. Although it is impossible to stop in every city, it can at least cover most of the major popular cities. This island tour along the coastline will allow you to appreciate Taiwan’s unique natural, cultural, and historical features.
🔥ChiaTe Pineapple Cake / Delivery or Airport Pickup
■ ChiaTe Bakery Pineapple Pastry-Delivery(Home / Hotel) / Airport Pickup (klook)
Prepare your trip to Taiwan?✈️Buy discounted tickets in advance (Klook)
■ EasyCard and SIM Card Package
■ Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket
■ Taipei Double Decker Sightseeing Bus
■ National Palace Museum Ticket
■ Taipei Fun Pass (Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, Taipei MRT, city buses, and 6 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle)
■ Taipei Transport Fun Pass (Taipei MRT, city buses, 6 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle routes, and Maokong Gondol)
■ Taipei Metro (MRT) Day Pass
■ (Taiwan Pass) HSR + MRT + Taiwan Tourist Shuttle
■ Taiwan High Speed Rail Day Pass
■ Taiwan High Speed Rail Ticket for non-Taiwanese Discounts or Buy 1 Get 1
■ Taiwan High Speed Rail Joint Ticket
■ (Taiwan Pass) Taiwan Railways + MRT + Taiwan Tourist Shuttle