Taiwan is truly beautiful！ Five foreigners’ picks of the most stunning scenic spots

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team, compiled and reported
 
With its unique seascapes, fairy-tale beaches, and dreamlike mountain areas, Taiwan boasts many breathtaking natural attractions. It was even named “Ilha Formosa” (Beautiful Island) by Portuguese explorers when they first discovered it.The Republic of ChinaThe Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications has designated thirteen National Scenic Areas and eight National Parks. Among them, the Alishan National Scenic Area, Yangmingshan National Park, Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area, Taroko National Park, and Kenting National Park are blessed with such natural beauty that they have become some of the most popular tourist destinations across Taiwan. The followingwillintroduce these incredible natural attractions.
 
● Alishan National Scenic Area
 
Standing at an elevation of up to 2,200 meters and covering a total area of 37,000 hectares, the Alishan National Scenic Area is located in the mountainous region of Chiayi County. Alishan is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. In the early morning, as the sun rises in the east through the sea of clouds that shroud Yushan, it creates a sunrise view that can only be seen in Alishan. Moreover, the Alishan National Scenic Area, with its distinctive charm in every season, attracts thousands of travelers who love nature.

● Yangmingshan National Park
 
Located to the north of Taipei, Yangmingshan National Park is an incredible nature reserve. Along its scenic trails, visitors can admire traditional rice fields and pavilions, magnificent waterfalls and volcanic craters, as well as the area’s famous hot springs. In this beautiful environment, during early February when spring begins, amid lush tropical plants, you’ll find cherry blossoms in full bloom, birds chirping, colorful butterflies fluttering, and fragrant flowers creating a delightful natural scene.

● Sun Moon Lake
 
Situated in Nantou County in central Taiwan at an altitude of 748 meters, the Sun Moon Lake Scenic Area covers an area of 8 square kilometers and is the largest natural lake in Taiwan. Divided by Lalu Island into two parts that resemble a crescent moon and a full moon, this unique feature also gives the lake its name. Visitors here can go hiking or boating to explore and admire the fascinating landscape of Sun Moon Lake. In addition, everytenyears around the Mid-Autumn Festival, over ten thousand people swim across Sun Moon Lake, which is also a spectacular event well worth witnessing.