Taiwan, an island known for its rich culture and must-try cuisine, is a destination for tourists seeking diverse experiences. The bustling night markets, such as Shilin in Taipei and Liuhe in Kaohsiung draw thousands of visitors, while historical sites like the ornate Longshan Temple and the grand Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall offer a peek into tradition and history.
With Taiwan still a visa-free destination for Filipinos, it makes for a good first trip out of the country, with friends or family. Filipino tourists can stay in Taiwan up to 14 days, no other documents needed, until July 31, 2025. Plus, there are plenty of direct flights available from the Philippines to major cities like Taipei, making it convenient to hop over for a quick escape.
Recently, we’ve proven that Taiwan is more than just night markets and skyscrapers (though we love those, too!). If you're ready to dive into a different side of Taiwan, here’s a guide to some unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that will make your travel unforgettable.
1. Live The Slow Life on Dihua Old Street In Taipei City, Taiwan
Where: Section 1, Dihua St, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103
Do you want a brief break from the noisy city life? Turn off notifications and spend half a day in Dihua Old Street in Taipei’s Datong District. The historic row, dating back to the 19th century, is lined with beautifully preserved traditional shophouses that offer a glimpse into the city’s past.
Walking along its cobbled paths, you’ll find a mix of old and new—antique shops, artisanal boutiques, and trendy cafes seamlessly blend with centuries-old herbal medicine stores and dried goods markets. It’s a great spot to slow down and soak in the local culture.
While many tourists go here for a pictorial, you can do more than just that. Complete your Dihua Old Street by indulging in a cup of authentic Taiwanese tea, which are found in several traditional tea shops in the area. Many of these shops have been around for generations, offering not just premium loose-leaf teas but also an immersive tea-drinking experience.
Take your time to sit down for a traditional tea ceremony, where skilled tea masters will guide you through the art of brewing the perfect cup. It’s a calming ritual that invites you to pause, relax, and appreciate the intricate flavors that have made Taiwanese tea renowned worldwide.
Taiwan’s famous dried mangoes, pineapples, and other tropical treats are also sold here. These dried munchies were made using traditional methods to keep their natural sweetness intact. We couldn’t resist buying a kilo of sweet cherries, and even health-boosting dried guava.
2. Step Back in Time with a Cheongsam Experience
Where: Salon 1920s, DiHua St, Datong District
Channel your inner movie star by renting a traditional cheongsam (also known as qipao) in the quaint costume rental shop. This isn’t your average dress-up—it’s a deep dive into Taiwanese and Chinese fashion history. The market is packed with stalls selling vibrant fabrics, perfect if you're in the mood to have a cheongsam custom-made. Once you're all dressed up, take a stroll down the nearby Dihua Old Street, where the vintage vibes and classic architecture make for fantastic photo shoot.
Travel Tip: Many shops offer professional photography services, so you can take home a keepsake photo that looks like it came straight out of an old-school Taiwanese film
3. Paddle Power at the Taipei International Dragon Boat Championships
Where: Zhongshan District, Taipei
Every June, the Taipei International Dragon Boat Championships light up the waters of the Keelung River with the roar of drums, splashing paddles, and crowds cheering on their favorite teams. Dragon boat racing is a tradition that dates back over 2,000 years, and there's no better place to witness this thrilling event than in Taipei.
For the best views, head to the Dajia Riverside Park. The area comes alive with food stalls, music, and cultural performances, creating a festival atmosphere that's perfect for families, friends, and adventure seekers alike.
Travel Tip: Arrive early to snag a good spot by the riverside. Don't forget your sunscreen and a camera—you won't want to miss those action shots of the beautifully decorated dragon boats.
4. Embrace Tradition at Yilan Park of the National Center for Traditional Arts
Where: No. 201?, Section 2, Wubin Rd, Wujie Township, Yilan County, Taiwan 268
Yilan Park is a place that celebrates Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage. The park is a treasure trove of traditional crafts, performances, and interactive exhibits. Watch artisans at work, try your hand at making dough figurines, or even craft your own paper umbrellas or wear wooden slippers.
There are also daily traditional opera shows and puppet performances that add a touch of old-world magic to your visit. It’s an immersive way to learn about Taiwanese culture beyond the typical tourist sites.
Travel Tip: Rent a bike to explore the park at a leisurely pace. And if you have time, stay overnight at one of the nearby homestays to enjoy the laid-back, countryside charm.
5. Feast Like a Local at Luodong Night Market
Where: 265, Taiwan, Yilan County, Luodong Township, Xingdong Rd
While Shilin and Raohe night markets are famous in Taipei, the Luodong Night Market in Yilan offers a more local and authentic experience. This bustling market is where you’ll find unique eats like Yilan scallion pancakes, long (tasty!) fries, and red yeast fried pork. We tried a shaved ice dessert, and it was the refreshing choice perfect for cooling down after all that walking.
The best part? The prices here are refreshingly affordable, so you can sample a little bit of everything.
Travel Tip: Try to visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. Grab a map of the market when you enter so you don’t miss out on any must-try food stalls.
Bonus Finds In Taiwan
Find quirky, unique keepsakes and pasalubong for your barkada. We guess these night market finds will do the trick.
Taiwan is known for being a relatively affordable travel destination, so you can explore its rich culture, delicious street food, and scenic spots without breaking the bank. See for yourself, and maybe you'll enjoy your #PanahonSaTaiwan.
