Escorted Tours
Today, you will be met in central Taipei for the start of our Taiwan round the island tour. Our tour will take us to the heart of the island, the Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area, which is the largest freshwater lake on the island and is divided by Lalu Island. The eastern side of the lake resembles the sun while the western side resembles the crescent moon, giving the lake its unique name. This picturesque area is also the ancestral home of the Thao people, one of Taiwan's indigenous groups. With its rich indigenous culture and abundance of natural beauty, the Sun Moon Lake has earned its place as one of Taiwan's premier destinations. After lunch, our journey continues with a scenic bus tour around the Sun Moon Lake, where you will explore the most renowned attractions in this area. Our first stop is to Ita Thao, which is an indigenous village that offers insights into the culture and lifestyle of the Thao people. Afterwards, marvel at the grandeur of Ci'en Pagoda, which is an iconic Sun Moon Lake landmark constructed by the late President Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother. Following our visit to Ci'en Pagoda, our exploration continues with stops at two significant Temples. This first is to Xuanzang Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary dedicated to the esteemed Monk Xuanzang and our second stop is to Wenwu Temple, which is an imposing Taoist Temple featuring three halls devoted to the Martial God and the God of Literature. With expert commentary from our tour guide, you will gain a deeper insight into the Sun Moon Lake that will enrich your appreciation for the area's history and significance. Afterwards, we will be transferred to the hotel for our overnight stay. Meals: Breakfast
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This morning, kick start the second day of your Taiwan adventure with a delightful breakfast before setting out for another day of exploration. Check out from the hotel and hop on the bus headed for Tainan, which is the oldest city in Taiwan. Tainan is celebrated for its abundance of historic buildings and profound historical heritage. In Tainan we will visit Fort Zeelandia, which was constructed by the Dutch East India Company during their 38 year administration of Western Taiwan. The original Fortress faced near destruction by the British Army in the 19th Century but was rebuilt by the Japanese. Afterwards, we will take a leisurely stroll along Anping Old Street, which is situated on the east side of Fort Zeelandia. This historic street was established by the Dutch over 300 years ago and holds the distinction of being the first officially named street in Taiwan. Besides its fascinating history, Anping Old Street is also known for its local specialties such as tofu pudding, shrimp rolls, fish skin dishes, beef soup, and many more. While you're here, don't miss the chance to savour the city's signature delicacies, adding a delightful culinary experience to your historical journey in Tainan. After lunch, our next destination is the romantic harbour city of Kaohsiung, which is the most populous city in Southern Taiwan. Upon arrival in Kaohsiung, our first stop is the renowned Fo Guang Shan Monastery (FGS), which is a significant Buddhist Monastery founded by the Venerable Master Hsing Yun in 1967. The Monastery is most famous for its Great Buddha Land, featuring a majestic 36 metre tall golden statue of the Buddha Amitabha, which stands as the tallest standing Buddha in Southeast Asia. It is encircled by an impressive array of 480 smaller statues depicting Buddha Amitabha. During your visit to Fo Guang Shan Monastery, you will have the opportunity to engage with a knowledgeable Monk who provides insights into the doctrines and development of Buddhism, which is the most widely practiced religion in Taiwan. Overnight stay in Kaohsiung, which is conveniently located around department stores, convenience stores and drugstores. Meals: Breakfast
After a hearty breakfast, we set out on our journey travelling south towards the border to Taiwan's first National Park. Kenting National Park is celebrated for its coastal geological formations, scenic landscapes and rich marine biodiversity, fostered by its unique combination of crustal deformation and tropical climate. Kenting is also a paradise for surfers and divers alike. On the third day of our round the island tour, we will make stops to Maobitou, which is known as cat's nose due to its resemblance to a colossal crouching cat when viewed from afar, Chuanfan Rock, which is also known as sail rock due to its distinctive natural formation that resembles the sail of a ship or a likeness of the former US President Richard Nixon, Eluanbi Lighthouse, which is a Qing Dynasty era construction that was recognised as one of the Eight Views of Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period, and Longpan Park, which is a coral limestone plateau overlooking the Pacific Ocean and shaped over time by rainfall erosion. Following your exploration of Kenting National Park, your journey will take you to Taitung via the scenic South Link Highway, allowing you to savour the continually shifting landscapes throughout your drive. Tonight, enjoy the pleasure of staying in a serene hot spring resort in Zhiben, Taitung County. Zhiben is renowned for its carbonate hot springs, which are known for enhancing blood circulation and alleviating fatigue, making it the perfect place to rejuvenate after a day of exploration. Meals: Breakfast
This morning after breakfast, our tour in Taiwan continues as we depart our hotel and journey along the east coast, which is known as the last unspoiled place of the island. Wherever you go, it never ceases to amaze you with its enchanting natural beauty. Our first stop is to Xiaoye liu, known as 'Little Yehliu', or officially 'Fugang Geopark'. This area is known for its natural rock formations, resembling those found in Yehliu Geopark on the northern coast of Taiwan, hence the name. Here, you can get up close to these unique landforms, shaped over time by weathering and sea erosion. Our adventure continues with a visit to Sanxiantai (known as the terrace of the three immortals), which is comprised of an offshore island and coral reefs. Sanxiantai also has a cross sea bridge that connects the mainland to the island, serving as a prominent landmark in the East Coast National Scenic Area. After exploring Sanxiantai, we will make a stop at Shitiping (known as stone steps). This area is a well developed sea erosion terrace, featuring promontories along the coastline that have been eroded by sea water over millions of years. This natural process has created an abrasion platform, sea grooves, sea cliffs and potholes, making Shitiping a world class outdoor geology classroom. Travel from Hualien to Yilan by train ride. Tonight, enjoy your stay at a hot spring hotel. Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast at the hotel, get ready for the last day of your tour. Today, the guide will take you to visit the King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery and the National Centre for Traditional Arts. Start the day with visit to 'King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery', known worldwide for its exquisite flavours brewed from the clear water sources of the Central Mountain Range and the Xueshan Mountain Range. Immerse yourself in the rich aroma of whisky and experience the unique flavours nurtured in oak barrels, embarking on a fascinating distillery exploration journey. Continue to visit the 'National Centre for Traditional Arts', a vast park featuring various exquisite traditional Taiwanese buildings. Here you can immerse yourselves in Taiwan's rich heritage through exhibitions, performances and workshops. From puppet shows to pottery making, there's something for everyone. Afterwards, transfer to Taipei City. End of Services. Meals: Breakfast
Tour Prices are per person twin share in Australian Dollars. Conditions apply and group tours are subject to change and availability. Prices are subject to currency fluctuations. (ets)
