A natural air-conditioned paradise of coolness: Six stunning hidden waterfalls across Taiwan

By the MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

As the hot summer arrives, many people plan to travel abroad or go to the beach to enjoy the water. Others want to go out for a walk but prefer to avoid the sweltering heat that could lead to heatstroke, so they choose cooler scenic spots. Taiwan is home to many refreshing hidden waterfall destinations with astonishing scenery—so amazing that even foreign tourists make special trips. Travelers may want to jot these down.

1. Galaxy Cave Waterfall
Located on the mountainside between Xindian and Muzha, at an altitude of over 200 meters, lies the hidden Galaxy Cave Waterfall, with a drop of about 40 meters. Year-round, water cascades down, and visiting in spring and summer brings a refreshing feeling, like discovering an oasis in the city.

Galaxy Cave is a hollow formed in a concave mountain wall. Inside the cave, there is a small temple dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, and the walls are inscribed with the words “A World Apart.” The hiking trail along Galaxy Cave is lush and pleasant, making it an easy and popular trekking route.
 
From Xindian MRT Station:
Take Xindian Bus (Pinglin Line) and get off at the “Galaxy Cave” stop on Beiyi Road
Take Xindian Bus routes 647, 650, or Green 5 to the terminal stop “Zhongsheng Bridge” and get off
Walk uphill along Beiyi Road for about 10 minutes until you reach a sharp turn, then cross to the opposite side and walk along Galaxy Road for about 25 minutes to reach the entrance of the Galaxy Cave hiking trail.
For those coming from the Maokong direction: Get off at the “Zihu Station” via Brown 15 or Small 10 Bus and head toward Galaxy Cave
By car: From Xindian MRT Station on Beixin Road → Opposite No. 458, Section 2, Beiyi Road → Galaxy Road → Entrance of the Galaxy Cave hiking trail

2. Houkengkeng Waterfall
Located in Yilan, Houkengkeng Waterfall got its name from the old legend that many macaques used to live here. The waterfall features short, fast-flowing streams with a significant drop and crystal-clear waters. Aside from enjoying the falls, visitors can also stroll along the trail for exercise, breathe in phytoncides, and take in the views of the Lanyang region.
 
Address: No. 263, Baishijiao Road, Jiaoxi Township, Yilan County