Weekend getaways without the crowds: Five dreamy hidden gems in southern Taiwan

By MOOK Scenic Spots / Compiled and reported
 
Weekend getaways without the crowds, breathe some fresh air, and embrace the great outdoors? Check out these five dreamy hidden gems in southern Taiwan—set aside some time to plan a visit and unwind.

1.Pingtung Longzipu Grassland
 
Located in Hengchun Township, Pingtung, Longzipu Grassland offers boundless, expansive views. The postcard-perfect green meadows paired with azure skies and white clouds make it an unmissable stunning landscape for travelers visiting Pingtung.
 
Address: Hengchun Township, Pingtung County

2.Kaohsiung Zhongzheng Lake
 
Situated in Meinong District, Kaohsiung, Zhongzheng Lake was built in the 13th year of the Qianlong Emperor’s reign during the Qing Dynasty, boasting a history of nearly 300 years. Here, you can take in the sweeping mountain ridges and crystal-clear lake, while the surrounding plant ecology is lush and vibrant. Additionally, from October to March each year, large numbers of migratory birds—over 60 species—visit to rest and stay, making it an ideal spot for bird breeding and birdwatching.
 
Address: Minquan Road, Meinong District, Kaohsiung City

3.Taijiang Academy
 
Taijiang National Park has constructed Taiwan’s first visitor center built on stilts over fish ponds. Its unique structure has even been recognized as the first diamond-rated green building among southern government facilities. Combined with the original ecological habitat features and integrated with daily living functions, it has become a highly meaningful and distinctive landscape architecture.
 
Address: No. 118, Sicao Boulevard, Annan District, Tainan City

4.Huwei Sugar Factory Iron Bridge
 
The Huwei Sugar Factory Iron Bridge is a designated historic site in Yunlin County. Originally built to support the development of the sugar factory, it evolved from a bamboo bridge to a wooden one, and eventually to the current iron bridge. Featuring three sections of steel truss beams at varying heights and ten massive hollow arch bridge piers, its design creates a strikingly airy and impressive visual when photographed.
 
Address: Huwei Township, Yunlin County