Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network Editorial Department
● Breathtaking Southern Taiwan: A Journey to Pristine Hidden Gems
From the perspective of natural geography, Southern Taiwan is home to six national scenic areas—Alishan, Yunlin–Chiayi–Tainan Coastal, Siraya, Maolin, Dapeng Bay, and Penghu—five national parks including Yushan, Kenting, Taijiang, Ocean, and Shoushan, as well as two forest district offices managed by the Forestry Bureau in Chiayi and Pingtung. The region is rich in ecological wonders and diverse natural resources, and also features cultural attractions such as the Taiwan Indigenous Peoples Cultural Park and the Six Hakka Cultural Villages. With its blend of stunning landscapes and profound cultural heritage, Southern Taiwan offers a travel experience filled with hidden gems and delightful surprises at every turn.
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center in Kaohsiung
● Classic Southern Taiwan: Strolling Through Charming Corners
When divided by administrative regions, Southern Taiwan includes seven major counties and cities—Yunlin, Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Penghu—each showcasing unique attractions, local characteristics, culinary specialties, and cultural vibes. There are majestic seascapes and mountain hideaways, folk festivals that blend local customs and historical legacy, rich cultural diversity from indigenous tribes, Hakka communities, Hoklo people, military dependents’ villages, and offshore islands, as well as century-old local street foods. This vibrant region attracts travelers all year round.
Chiayi Sun-Shooting Tower
● Savoring the Deep South: Authentic Local Experiences
Yunlin, which has the largest amount of farmland in Taiwan, is not only a hub of agricultural abundance but is also known as the “Kitchen of Taiwan.” Its natural ecology, historical culture, and cultural heritage sites are equally fascinating. Chiayi County is the only county in Taiwan that encompasses three major national scenic areas—Alishan, Yunlin–Chiayi–Tainan Coastal, and Siraya—boasting both mountain and coastal grandeur. Chiayi City is rich in historical sites, gourmet food, famous bakeries, temples, and traditional crafts, with an enduring artistic charm. The Greater Tainan area boasts a profound cultural foundation, abundant natural resources, some of the most authentic and flavorful cuisines, and a laid-back pace of life. It’s a perfect destination for a deep, leisurely wellness trip all year round.
Alishan Forest Railway
● When Sunshine Meets the Sea: A Sensory Feast That Touches the Heart
The romantic harbor of Qijin, the ancient charm of Fengshan, the Hakka village vibes of Meinong, the trendiest shopping malls, and the most delicious port city snacks—all can be found in sunny Kaohsiung, a vibrant ocean city. Pingtung County lies entirely south of the Tropic of Cancer, and its spring-like climate all year round has made this fertile land a kingdom of abundant agriculture, fisheries, and livestock. It not only leads Asia in blackfin tuna catches each year, but also thrives on its diverse environments, ecosystems, and ethnic communities. Then there’s the Penghu Archipelago, composed of islands and basalt formations, where you can enjoy delicious seafood, century-old bakeries, local snacks, and charming old temples, traditional houses, and heartwarming homestays.
Breathing in the mountain mist and sea breeze under the southern sun, it’s impossible not to fall for the little joys of life in this corner of the country. This book, “Fantastic Southern Taiwan: A Leisurely Little Journey,” not only covers the pristine hidden gems and introductions to the counties and cities of Southern Taiwan mentioned above, but also includes practical accommodation recommendations, travel information, and more than 170 exclusive deals from local Southern Taiwanese shops. Now is the perfect time to travel to Southern Taiwan!
To get a copy of “Fantastic Southern Taiwan: A Leisurely Little Journey,” visit any freeway service area, train station, high-speed rail station, MRT station, post office, or tourism service center nationwide. You can also download the e-book and app for free.
