The Taiwan solo travel experience is so thrilling, it’s definitely one for the books!
I mean, with the captivating blend of traditional culture, modern marvels, and breathtaking landscapes, you won’t just be raving on about your experience, you may end up making it a recurring routine.
I’m almost certain that a “Taiwan solo travel summer” may very become one of your most esteemed yearly traditions. What’s not to love about Taiwan?
Officially the Republic of China (ROC), Taiwan is an East Asian country seated where the East and South China Seas meet the Pacific Ocean. It shares borders with the People’s Republic of China to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south.
Taiwan is a captivating island nation with a remarkable fusion of vibrant cities, serene countryside, and picturesque coastlines.
Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Taipei, gazing in awe at the dramatic Taroko Gorge, or immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan offers an incredible range of experiences for solo travelers.
And while we have mentioned a couple of places, one major reason to visit Taiwan (even if you want to ignore the bustling street life and the majestic mountains — which you shouldn’t) is the sense of exploration and discovery that permeates every corner of the country.
But figuring out how to travel solo in Taiwan may not be the easiest thing to do, especially if you are new to solo traveling, check out our solo travel tips blog post.
In this post, we’ll give you ten tips to make your Taiwan solo travel as memorable as possible. From navigating public transportation to savoring local delicacies, we’ve got you covered with insights that will help you make the most of your adventure.
And like we always do at Tourist Lookup, we’ll take you on an adventure before your adventure. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore Taiwan.
10 Tips for an Unforgettable Taiwan Solo Travel Experience
Tip 1: Embrace the Night Markets.
If you’re in for the best Taiwan solo travel, you must channel your inner Batman and embrace the night. In Taiwan, when the sun sets, that’s when Taiwan truly comes alive. And as the night comes alive, the night markets remain the heartbeat of Taiwan.
The night markets are a symphony of colors, scents, and sounds. And for the best nighttime, your Taiwan solo travel itinerary should start from Taipei. It has the most night markets.
From bustling Shilin to vibrant Raohe, these markets offer a sensory overload of local delicacies, unique souvenirs, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.
And have you really embraced the night market if you didn’t try Xiaochi?
Tip 2. Master Public Transportation.
Now knowing how to use the buses and the trains properly will take your Taiwan solo travel to another level.
Taiwan’s public transportation system is a marvel. The efficient and extensive network of trains, buses, and the iconic Taipei Metro makes navigating the island a breeze.
They have a well-organized network of small shuttle buses that operate efficiently, linking significant and lesser-known tourist spots across 20 cities, counties, and even three offshore islands.
From high-speed rails to the charter bus system to mass rapid transit vehicles to city buses to public vehicles, all your movement needs are catered for. As much as you may think renting a car is a nice Idea, for the best solo trip experience, hop on the train!
Tip 3. Wander Through Temple Complexes.
There are a lot of Temples in Taiwan, with about fifteen official temples in Tapei alone. Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage is often showcased in its intricate temple complexes.
While there is nothing like the “best temple,” the Baoan Temple, Taipei, is one of the most interesting ones in Taipei.
You also have temples like the Chung Tai Chan Monastery and the Confucius Temple, Tainan. The Longshan Temple in Taipei and the historic temples of Tainan are also interesting places to explore.
Engage with locals, witness age-old rituals, and marvel at the stunning architecture that bridges the past and the present to take your Taiwan solo travel up a notch.
Tip 4. Go Out, Taiwanese people are friendly.
One thing that is sure to make your Taiwan solo trip memorable is connecting with the locals.
Taiwanese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Engage in conversations, strike up friendships, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from the locals. Their insights will take you off the beaten path and unveil hidden gems.
Also, since Google Maps is not always accurate when trying to locate some of the less-known spots, asking for directions will save you hours of walking around in circles looking for a never-emerging night market.
Tip 5. Savor Local Cuisine.
You can’t mention how to solo travel in Taiwan without mentioning its food. From the savory oyster omelets to the mouthwatering beef noodle soup, indulging in Taiwanese street food is a journey in itself.
If you’re in Taipei, you should visit Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodles. They have only one thing on their menu, a thin wheat-flour noodle called “Mee Sua” served with braised pork intestine. But it doesn’t just have to be in Ay-Chung, or even Taipei, for that matter.
From Mosun Teppanyaki in Da’an to A Point Steak & Bar in Xinyi to W XYZ Bar in Zhongshan, let your taste buds lead you to hidden food stalls and hole-in-the-wall eateries for a true culinary adventure.
Tip 6. Immerse in Cultural Festivals.
Your Taiwan solo travel itinerary is not complete without stops at a cultural festival, or maybe ten!
Taiwan’s calendar is dotted with vibrant festivals that celebrate its traditions and diversity. From the spirited lantern festivals to the elaborate Dragon Boat Festival, joining in these celebrations allows you to connect with the local community and witness their authentic customs.
Most times, when people remember their times in Taiwan, these festivals stand out the most!
Tip 7. Seek Tranquility in Nature.
As much as Taiwan solo travel can be all about exploring the bustling cities and the mesmerizing modern buildings with lights and attractions, you should carve out time to explore the beautiful country’s natural views.
From the mesmerizing Sun Moon Lake to the dramatic Alishan National Scenic Area to the stunning Kenting National Park, you’ll have time to relax and take in a natural beauty that will make your Taiwan solo trip feel relaxing, as much as it is adventurous.
The Kenting National Park also offers opportunities for hiking and exploring if sitting is too relaxing for you.
Tip 8. Carry enough Cash.
In Taiwan, cash holds the crown when it comes to transactions. While many eateries and stores do take cards, keep in mind that when you’re indulging in street food or exploring local markets, having cash is essential.
This nugget of advice might seem peculiar in a solo travel guide for Taiwan, but it’s a crucial insight to grasp. When journeying with a companion, there’s often a safety net if you fall short on cash.
However, on your Tawain solo trip, the responsibility rests entirely on your shoulders to have enough cash for any cash-only expenditures.
The best practice is to convert some of your home currency into New Taiwan Dollars before your departure, and always tuck some cash in your wallet when you’re navigating the streets of Taiwan!
Tip 9. Explore Beyond Taipei.
If everything on your Taiwan solo travel itinerary is Taipei, then you’re not really exploring Taiwan, are you? It’s a common mistake when traveling to a country to confine yourself to its capital city, but doing that is like just eating the peanut butter in a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
While Taipei shines as an incredible city (and it’s one of my personal favorites in Taiwan), there’s a wealth of experiences outside its bounds waiting to be discovered. Hualien, for instance, is a great place to visit as it boasts some of the nation’s most splendid hiking trails.
Also, Kaohsiung is about two hours away from Taipei, so you can easily explore the two major cities in a single journey.
Taking a Taipei-to-Jiufen trek is another adventure leading you into the city of Jiufen. But no matter the town outside Taipei that beckons you, each holds a distinct essence, offering an enriching perspective on Taiwan beyond its capital.
Tip 10. Embrace the Unexpected.
After all, the best answer to “How to solo travel in Taiwan” is “embrace the unexpected.”
As you navigate Taiwan on your solo adventure, be open to trying new things, exploring uncharted territories, and letting the island’s charm surprise you at every turn.
From chasing the views by hiking the trails of Taroko Gorge or riding the Maokong Gondola for panoramic city vistas to delving into history by visiting the National Palace Museum to trace the Islands, adventure is at every turn if you are open to it.
Conclusion.
Armed with these ten tips and your adventurous spirit, you’re all set for an unforgettable Taiwan solo travel experience.
One major thing about Taiwan is the warm and welcoming nature of its people. From the moment you set foot in this mesmerizing land, you’ll be greeted with genuine smiles and open arms, so take advantage of that.
The locals are eager to share their culture, traditions, and delectable cuisine, ensuring that your solo adventure is as enriching and as enjoyable as possible.
FAQs
Is Taiwan solo travel-friendly?
Curious if Taiwan is suitable for solo travelers? Yes, Taiwan has various spots you can enjoy on a solo trip, like Sun moon lake, Taroko Gorge, and many others. It is also very safe, and with its efficient transportation system, moving around is a breeze.
Which Country Is the best for solo travel?
Wondering which country is ideal for solo explorations apart from Taiwan? Belgium is another great place to travel solo. Check out all you need to know about solo travel in Belgium and keep your solo travel streak going.
Is it hard to travel around Taiwan?
Concerned about the ease of getting around Taiwan? No, Taiwan has a very excellent public transportation system that makes movement very easy and comfortable. Whether you’re on a train or a bus, movement is very easy and intuitive.
Is Taiwan nice to foreigners?
Interested to know if Taiwan welcomes foreign visitors warmly? Yes, the Taiwanese are known to be welcoming to tourists and are generally very friendly people.
Is Taiwan safe for solo female travelers?
Thinking about safety for female solo travelers in Taiwan? Yes, Taiwan is safe for female and male solo travelers, with no reports of crime against tourists.
