EAST COAST OF TAIWAN FOR THE ROAD TRIP I
f you think Taiwan is all about metropolises and skycrapers, then you probably haven’t seen its east coast. Cut off from the heavilypopulated western side of the island by stunning mountain ranges, the region is known for its climate and laid-back culture – all best experienced from the open road. Skirt the eastern coastline to explore Taiwan’s incomparable natural beauty, from the vast geological wonders of Taroko National Park and Qingshui’s steep precipices to the expansive rice paddies of the East Rift Valley. The east coast is all about natural splendor. Start things off in the south by catching the surf on Kenting’s tropical white sand beaches and perhaps even some snorkeling and diving. Then, head up the coast to Hualien, for Taroko Gorge, the best hiking trail in the whole of Taiwan.
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Yehliu Geopark and Taipei’s Yangminshan National Park round out a tour of Taiwan’s most stunning conservation areas. For a taste of the culture, travelers can explore 30 hectares of the island’s largest Buddhist monastery, Fo Guang Shan, which is known to close periodically to provide a more cloistered atmosphere. In fact, every stop along the road trip should involve some manner of cultural experience, be it a temple visit or learning about the indigenous peoples of Taiwan. Travelers should also be reminded that a road trip doesn’t have to be by car; Taiwan is famous for being cycle friendly, and visitors can take their time cycling around the whole of the Republic of China. It’s slower, but a bike will get you places a car can’t.
