Chase the sunrise dawn！8 hidden spots across Taiwan for New Year’s Eve 2018

Text & photos /Tripbaa

With only two weeks left until the end of the year, haven’t decided where to ring in the New Year yet? Let the experts help you out with an emergency New Year’s Eve guide, featuring a roundup of 8 of the most unique sunrise-watching spots across Taiwan. You definitely won’t be too late to plan your countdown itinerary now！

2018 New Year’s Eve “Stay Awake on New Year’s Eve”

2018 New Year’s Eve #1 Sunrise viewing at Taiping Mountain & Cui Feng Lake in Yilan

▲ Yilan – Taiping Mountain Cui Feng Lake.

Want to watch the sunrise in the mountains on New Year’s Eve but worried about the crowds and long, traffic-jammed roads? Let the experts take you to Taiwan’s mountain hideaways for a special “Stay Awake on New Year’s Eve” plan, and find the dreamy sunrise atop the eastern mountains. As the sun rises above the peaks, the dazzling dawn warming your face is truly moving. Plus, don’t miss the Luodong Night Market in Yilan and the ultra-healing Kui Zhi Ze Hot Springs — a perfect match for ringing in the New Year！

2018 New Year’s Eve #2 Snow Mountain Farm – A Forest New Year’s Eve

When talking about sunrise views in northern Taiwan, Snow Mountain Farm is a must, as the Sacred Ridge Line here is simply stunning. The Sacred Ridge Line connects the peaks from Snow Mountain to Dabaijian, stretching 15 kilometers at altitudes all above 3,000 meters. When golden light illuminates the entire ridge line, it's more beautiful than any painting — you can’t deny this is one of the most majestic sunrise spots！
 
2018 New Year’s Eve #3 A Day Trip to Ali Mountain for the Sunrise

▲ Chiayi – Ali Mountain Sunrise.

When talking about New Year’s sunrise, how can you forget Ali Mountain? With music festivals in your ears, your heart awaits that golden light over the distant peaks. Remember the shaky, crowded train rides, but no cold could dim your passion while waiting for Ali Mountain’s sunrise. This year, join us in welcoming the first light of 2018 at Ali Mountain.
 
2018 New Year’s “Romantic Coastline”

2018 New Year’s Eve #1 Greeting the sunrise at Guihou’s Unique Rocks in Wanli

▲Wanli – Guihou Sunrise.

Want to enjoy the New Year’s sunrise near Taipei? Guihou in Wanli is a fantastic choice. It's one of Taiwan’s top eight sunrise spots. In addition to watching the dawn rise over the horizon paired with the majestic sea view of Keelung Islet, you can also admire world-class unique rock formations, connecting seamlessly with Yehliu.

Experience mountain camping, gaze at the unparalleled five-star sea view of Wanli Bay, enjoy wood-fired pizza and local seafood BBQ, breakfast at Wanli’s famous traditional eateries, plus a seaside bonfire dance party on New Year’s morning, along with the Guihou sunrise — collect the ultimate North Coast experience all in one go.
 
2018 New Year’s Romantic Coastline #2  Greet the sunrise while fishing at Keelung Bisha

▲ New Year’s fishing in Keelung.

If you prefer the sea over the mountains, this second series is perfect for you. Join the experts along the most beautiful coastline, from north to south, to greet the first light of dawn, and pursue the most magical way to ring in the New Year with a fresh start. Board the pure white “Jade Dragon No. 8” and sail into the dark sea, watching the fiery Pacific and the first light of the New Year from the water. You can enjoy fishing, karaoke, and savor freshly caught sashimi, seafood noodles, and sea-land barbecue. Start your New Year’s journey with a fishing and sunrise chasing trip at sea！

2018 New Year’s Romantic Coastline #3  Make a wish at Guishan Island’s sunrise

▲ Yilan Guishan Island Sunrise.

On New Year’s Day 2018, set sail to find the world’s most uniquely shaped island — Guishan Island. From the sea, get up close to the sunrise over Guishan Island and witness the famed “Guishan Morning Sun,” one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Guishan. Make your first new wish of the year.
 
2018 New Year’s Romantic Coastline #4 Watching F16 Fighter Jets over the Sea in Hualien

If we had to name the most thrilling sunrise spot, Qixingtan (Seven Star Lake) would probably be it. Aside from the breathtaking sunrise views, the coolest part is watching F16 fighter jets roar overhead. Beyond the visual spectacle, this is likely the only sunrise spot in Taiwan that offers an incredibly intense auditory experience.
 
2018 New Year’s Romantic Coastline #5 Greeting the First Ray of Dawn in the East

▲ Taitung – Welcoming the Sunrise by Canoe.

The new year symbolizes a fresh start. If you’re just staying home watching TV or sleeping in to ring in the New Year, isn’t it just the same as any other day? Why not challenge yourself—follow in Emma Watson’s footsteps from “The Circle,” cleanse your soul with a canoe ride, greet the sunrise, and embark on a brand-new adventure.

2018 New Year’s Day “Bonus Travel Fun”

2018 New Year’s Bonus Travel Fun #1 Welcome the New Year with Yushan Mountain in View

▲ Yushan Wishing Village.

Finally, our expert has an extra recommendation: for travelers looking to party from Friday after work all the way through to New Year’s Day, why not go on a tribal adventure? Swap a cold boxed lunch for a hearty dinner, leave the office behind and immerse yourself in lush greenery, and kick off the New Year to the sounds of indigenous songs, dances, and cheers.
 
2018 New Year’s Day Dawn-Chasing Map

More Tips for Dawn-Chasing Secret Spots During New Year’s
Owl Taoyuan Valley Secret Spot – Overlooking Turtle Mountain at Sunrise
Owl Awe-Inspiring Railway Sunrise at Alishan
Owl Grilled vs. Sashimi – New Year’s Eve Sea Fishing Party