Day Trips & Excursions: Taichung

Sun Moon Lake 日月潭

Taiwan's largest and most famous lake. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, calm waters, and surrounding cultural sites like Wenwu Temple and Ci'en Pagoda.

Direct buses run from Taichung HSR Station or Taichung Main Station to Sun Moon Lake, taking approximately 1.5-2 hours. Buses are comfortable and frequent. Independent travel permits flexibility, while organized tours feature structured experiences.

Experience the Lake

Enjoy boat cruises on the serene waters.
Explore scenic cycling paths around the lake.
Visit historical sites like Wenwu Temple.
Ascend Ci'en Pagoda for panoramic views.

Nearby Natural Escapes

Taichung features several natural escapes that are easily accessible for a refreshing break from the city.

Gaomei Wetlands 高美濕地

A popular half-day trip, especially at sunset, with its unique ecological environment and impressive views.

Accessing the Wetlands

Take TRA from Taichung Main Station to Qingshui Station.
From Qingshui, special buses (e.g., Route 178 or 179) connect.
Taxis are also available from Qingshui.

Dakeng Scenic Area 大坑風景區

This area is a great option for a half-day hiking escape from the city, with varied trails.

Trails and Transport

Easily accessible by Taichung city bus from various city points.
Many bus routes go directly to the Dakeng area.
Varied trails cater to different fitness levels.

Cultural Excursions

Lukang 鹿港

Historic coastal town with well-preserved architecture.
Home to ancient temples like revered Longshan Temple.
Sample traditional crafts and local snacks.
It offers a strong sense of old Taiwan.

Wufeng Lin Family Mansion and Garden 霧峰林家宅園

A significant historical site showing traditional aristocratic life.
Accessible by local bus or taxi from Taichung Main Station (~30-40 min).
Guided tours are generally required for entry to most parts.
A glimpse into a prominent historical family's wealth.

Multi-Day Extensions

TaipeiExplore modern capital, night markets.
Tainan & KaohsiungSouth for history, art scene.
Alishan & Sun Moon LakeClassic central Taiwan nature loop.
HSR for quick travelMore time for sightseeing.

NorthwardDirect HSR to Taipei.
SouthwardDirect HSR to Tainan, Kaohsiung.
Buses & TRASlower, more scenic alternatives.
East CoastTrain from Taipei to Hualien.

Planning Longer Journeys

Consider combining your Taichung visit with a broader Taiwan exploration. The High-Speed Rail connects major cities seamlessly, shaping itinerary planning straightforward.

Alishan National Scenic Area

Alishan is renowned for its beautiful tea plantations, spectacular sunrise views over a sea of clouds, ancient giant cypress trees, and the Alishan Forest Railway.

High-Speed Rail

Take the HSR from Taichung HSR Station to Chiayi HSR Station (approximately 30 minutes).

Bus Connection

From Chiayi, take a bus or a pre-booked tour to Alishan (approximately 2.5-3 hours).

Sunrise & Stay

A full day provides a rushed visit; 1-2 nights for sunrise and thorough exploration.

Tea Plantations

Alishan is famous for its high-mountain oolong tea, grown in the cool, misty climate.

Tea Culture

Visit tea farms and enjoy fresh brews.
Learn about tea cultivation and processing.
Admire stunning hillside tea landscapes.

Forest Railway

The Alishan Forest Railway features an unique journey through tunnels and over bridges.

Railway Experience

Historic narrow-gauge railway experience.
Scenic routes through lush forests.
Access various trailheads within the park.

Time Required for Destinations

Sun Moon LakeFull day or overnight

LukangHalf to full day

AlishanIdeally 1-2 nights

Gaomei WetlandsHalf-day (sunset)

Dakeng Scenic AreaHalf-day hike

Wufeng Lin MansionHalf-day cultural visit

Maximize Your Experience

Check bus schedules and tide times (for Gaomei) in advance.
Consider pre-booking Alishan transport during peak season.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking trails.
Bring sun protection and water for outdoor activities.
For a relaxed pace, consider overnight stays for nature spots.

Multi-Day Itinerary Extensions

Taichung's central location integrates seamlessly into longer Taiwan itineraries, with easy connections to other major cities.

Northward to Taipei

Head north to Taiwan's capital, a contrast to Taichung's pace.

Taipei Highlights

Explore iconic Taipei 101.
Visit the National Palace Museum.
Discover bustling night markets like Shilin.

Southward to Tainan & Kaohsiung

Journey south to Taiwan's historical and modern port cities.

Southern Charm

Tainan's rich history and ancient temples.
Kaohsiung's harbor and arts scene.
Enjoy large green spaces in Kaohsiung.

Alishan and Sun Moon Lake Loop

A classic central Taiwan loop ideal for nature lovers, combining serene lake beauty with majestic mountains.

Nature's Best

Experience the serene beauty of Sun Moon Lake.
Discover the majestic mountains of Alishan.
Visit tea plantations and unique railways.

Transportation Connections

Taiwan's efficient transport network ensures smooth travel between destinations.

Travel Options

HSR (High-Speed Rail) for rapid city-to-city travel.
Long-distance buses for scenic, budget-friendly routes.
Conventional TRA trains for a slower pace and smaller towns.

Suggested Longer Routes

North to South Exploration

Start in Taipei, HSR to Taichung, then south to Tainan and Kaohsiung, covering major western cities.

Central Taiwan Immersion

Use Taichung as a base for day trips or overnights to Sun Moon Lake and Alishan, spotlighting nature and culture.

East Coast Adventure

Extend from Taipei to Hualien for Taroko Gorge, experiencing Taiwan's rugged eastern beauty.

Itinerary Planning

Plan your route considering HSR connections for efficiency, or buses/TRA for more scenic or local travel. Always check schedules and book tickets, especially during busy periods.

Day Trips & Excursions