Sandra ChanTaiwan in 2025 is a haven for adventurers, blending urban vibrancy with accessible natural wonders. Gone are the days of solely associating Taiwan with bustling cityscapes; now, its diverse landscapes beckon. Whether you’re seeking a digital detox in lush rainforests or capturing breathtaking mountain vistas for your social feed, Taiwan delivers.
This small island’s popular natural sights are amazing, and there are countless lesser-known destinations around the island. Here are seven places that are perfect getaways for nature-lovers.
Also read: Taiwan Itinerary for First-timers: My 6D5N Trip to Taichung & Taipei
1. Taroko National Park
Image Credit: nodie26
Located on the east coast of Taiwan, Taroko National Park (太魯閣國家公園) is best accessed from the city of Hualien. This huge park spans across Taichung, Nantou, and Hualien and is one of the nine national parks of the island. The main sight of the Taroko National Park is Taroko Gorge, after which the park was named. Taroko Gorge is famous for its abundant supply of marble, some of which was formed over 200 million years ago. Many visitors are left speechless due to the majesty of the gorge when they visit it for the first time.
2. Sun Moon Lake
Image Credit: Mark Kao
Sun Moon Lake (日月潭) is in the Nantou County and is home to one of the aboriginal tribes of Taiwan – the Thao tribe. This lake is named so because the east side of the lake resembles a sun, and its west side resembles a moon. Many people come here during sunrise and sunset, as the views during these hours are breathtaking. There is also a beautiful bike route around the lake that allows cyclists to enjoy the view from different vantage points.
3. Qingshui Cliff
Image Credit: momo
Qingshui Cliff (清水斷崖) spans 21 kilometres on the east coast of Taiwan, and it is the highest coastal cliff on the island. Its tallest peak is named the Qingshui Mountain, which measures 2,408 m above the Pacific Ocean. The way the cliff plunges into the Pacific Ocean is amazing, and Qingshui Cliff is a popular photo spot for many visitors.
4. Hehuanshan
Image Credit: i kun
Located in Nantou, Hehuanshan (合歡山), which literally means Joy Mountain, is in the Taroko Gorge National Park. At 3,416 metres high, it is the highest peak accessible by car. Due to its height, the temperature can drop below the freezing point in wintertime. Many Taiwanese make the journey here to get their first glimpse of snow.
5. Jibei Island
Image Credit: Carrie Kellenberger
Jibei Island (吉贝岛) is a small island in the Taiwan Strait of the South China Sea. It is a short boat ride from Makong, Penghu’s main island. Its white sandy beaches and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect island paradise. You can hear the sound of the waves crashing all over the island. Other than a scooter or two driving on the narrow roads that outline the island, you hardly see any vehicle on this island.
6. Jinguashi
Image Credit: Mars
Jinguashi (金瓜石) is an old town in the New Taipei area. It is surrounded by the peaks of the Mount Keelung range, and although these mountains are not very tall, the cluster of peaks is very photogenic. There were rich seams of gold and copper mines in the hills around the town. During the Japanese rule, the Japanese set up residence here to mine the gold. You can still find many Japanese-style houses here, and some people even describe this place as “Japan outside of Japan”. During World War II, the Japanese used this town as a PoW camp.
7. Yuemeikeng Waterfall
Image Credit: Hiking Taiwan
A combination of steep terrain, hard rock, and heavy rainfall makes Taiwan a paradise for waterfall lovers. Located in the Yilan County, the Yuemeikeng (月眉坑瀑布) Waterfall is a short day trip from Taipei. Until recently, this waterfall was very little known. The hike to the waterfall is around one hour and is itself an adventure as you need to wade through a narrow gorge. However, the view of the waterfall is well worth the hike.
Also Read: 10 Best Taiwan Attractions Outside Taipei
So there you go, a list of nature scenic spots in Taiwan you absolutely don’t want to miss! Remember, these are just a taste of what Taiwan’s natural beauty has to offer. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual nature lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape from the city, Taiwan’s diverse landscapes will leave you breathless.
