Top 5 Family-Friendly Travel Destinations Loved by Taiwanese: Okinawa Sweeps the Top Two Spots

The “The Grand Hotel” in Qingjing, Nantou, features luxurious architectural lines and opulent interiors that captivate all travelers enamored with European style. (Photo provided by Booking.com)

With summer vacation here, family travel is on the rise. Global online hotel and accommodation booking platform Booking.com, based on recommendations from Taiwanese travelers, has for the first time unveiled the “Top 5 Family-Friendly Travel Destinations Loved by Taiwanese” ranking and selected accommodations. Among them, Okinawa, Japan, takes the top two spots—both are easily accessible by car and just a 75-minute flight away. Yilan’s Jiaoxi, a hot spring town, ranks third, while Nantou’s Yuchi Township, known for its natural landscapes and indigenous culture, and Ren’ai Township, celebrated for its distinctive European flair, come in fourth and fifth, respectively.

● Onna Village, Okinawa: A Perfect Mix of Water Activities and Wildlife Observation

Located on the western half of Okinawa Island, Onna Village is famed for its excellent diving spot at Cape Zanpa, a variety of water activities, and its abundance of resort hotels, making it the top choice for family trips. Additionally, Manzamo, known for its natural wonders, offers family travelers opportunities for wildlife observation.

When visiting Onna Village, the “Fufu Apartments Okinawa” with its luxurious ocean-view suites is highly favored by family travelers. Just a 20-minute drive from the popular tourist attraction Ryukyu Mura, its prime location has earned acclaim from travelers eager to experience local Okinawan culture and cuisine. Moreover, the nearby Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, beloved by both adults and children, boasts the world’s second-largest aquarium tank, the “Kuroshio Sea,” sure to delight family travelers wanting to glimpse the deep sea.

● Chatan Town, Okinawa: A Relaxed, American-Style Getaway

Chatan Town, situated in the mid-western part of Okinawa Island, is perfect for travelers who prefer a laid-back, unhurried trip. With numerous U.S. military bases in the area, the American-style American Village naturally emerged, providing a great spot for family travelers to shop and relax. Of course, Sunset Beach is also one of the must-visit attractions here, where the stunning sunset spreads across the sky and sea, creating a truly romantic atmosphere.

The “Okuma Cape Hotel” is located right in front of Sunset Beach. Guests can enjoy the sun and sand in just three minutes, and the spacious, high-quality rooms offer easy views of the clear blue sea, making it ideal for families. The hotel also provides bicycle rentals, making it even easier to explore Chatan Town.

Stay at the “Fufu Apartments Okinawa” with luxurious ocean-view suites to experience local Okinawan culture and cuisine. (Photo provided by Booking.com)

● Jiaoxi Township, Yilan: Heartwarming Local Experiences

When it comes to Jiaoxi, nothing is more praised than its hot springs. The local government holds an annual “Hot Spring Festival” to promote the charm of Jiaoxi’s thermal waters. Of course, famous attractions like Wufengqi Waterfall and Longtan Lake are also great for families to explore nature’s wonders together. If you’re tired from walking, you can also soak your feet and relax at Tangwei Gully Hot Spring Park while enjoying local cuisine, perfectly wrapping up your trip.

The “Ta-Ya Township Homestay,” beloved by family travelers, is just a 10-minute walk from Jiaoxi Railway Station and a short stroll to Tangwei Gully Hot Spring Park, offering all guests a homely and warm experience. The compact and well-appointed accommodation comes with all necessary daily necessities, private bathrooms, and SPA bathtubs. The hospitable hosts are also happy to provide local travel information. Voted by Booking.com users as the best value accommodation in Jiaoxi Township, its excellent service offers great value and leaves a lasting impression.

● Yuchi Township, Nantou: Experience the Many Faces of Sun Moon Lake

Home to Taiwan’s second-largest lake, Sun Moon Lake, Yuchi Township captivates both domestic and international travelers with its ever-changing beauty. In addition to admiring the distinct natural scenery of the Sun and Moon Lakes, visitors can also experience the fascinating charm of Taiwan’s indigenous culture. Visit the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village to enjoy the park’s rides while immersing yourself in the area’s most original customs and traditions. Yuchi Township is also famous for its black tea, known for its rich, mellow aroma and smooth, sweet taste that retains the pure fragrance of nature.

The “Sun Moon Lake Zhushi Garden Eco-Resort” is located at Jiulongkou of Sun Moon Lake, just a few steps from the Chaowu Pier for lake cruises. The tranquil environment is far from the hustle and bustle. To experience Taiwanese indigenous culture and customs, you can also drive to the nearby Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. The resort offers free bicycle rentals, allowing guests to explore the surroundings in a more eco-friendly way. Additionally, Booking.com users consistently praise the friendly and accommodating staff, and the 24-hour front desk greatly enhances convenience for family travelers.

● Ren’ai Township, Nantou: A Foreign Experience Like Being in Europe

Ren’ai Township in Nantou is home to Qingjing Farm, with its lush green meadows and adorable flocks of sheep—a delightful destination for family fun. Walking on the emerald grass against a backdrop of blue skies and white clouds feels like being in Europe, bringing both physical and mental relaxation. During seasonal transitions, a visit to Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area also offers breathtaking views of fiery red maple leaves, showcasing a different side of Ren’ai Township.

As soon as you step onto the stairs of “The Grand Hotel,” you’ll be overwhelmed by its grandeur. The luxurious architectural lines and opulent interiors are sure to satisfy all travelers fascinated by European style. The private garden, surrounded by mountains, and the rooms’ fireplaces and premium sound systems make guests feel like European nobility. The hotel is also just an 8-minute drive from Qingjing Farm and the green meadows, making it an excellent lodging choice for families traveling with children.