Taiwan // You Don't Want to Miss

#1 Whitewater Raft the Liwu River!

Taroko National Park in Eastern Taiwan is famous for its rugged landscapes and canyons, particularly the impressive Taroko Gorge. This steep canyon has amazing views and historical shrines, hot springs, mountain forests with wildlife, whitewater rafting, and trekking. 
The Liwu River flows through the canyon and is excellent for rafting during the summer months.

#2 Surf the Taiwanese Coast

Taiwan holds some of the most wave-rich and uncrowded stretches of water, only meters from the beach. You'll find yourself immersed in the sound of crashing waves and stunning ocean and mountain views. Consistent swell patterns year round ensure plenty of water time and an abundance of waves.

#3 Study Mandarin Chinese Language

Studying Mandarin in Taiwan is not only great for college and future work in the world, but a fun and eye opening experience. After a few classes, you will not only have the ability to make lasting connections in the community, but also obtain a deep understanding of the power language holds in our lives.

#4 Food You’ll Crave for a Lifetime

The culinary philosophy of Taiwan is, “eat often and eat well”. Every time you think you've found the best street food, the most incredible restaurant, or your number one beef noodle soup, there's another experience that surpasses it. The island's food is a mash-up of the cuisine of Chinese communities along with Japanese cooking and aboriginal influences. Food is a serious business in Taiwan!

#5 Prepare and Teach English in a Native Village

A town full of children eagerly await their new “Laoshi” or teacher. As you arrive, children run out of every doorway and welcome you to their town. The ability to speak English is an important skill in Taiwan. You'll offer friendship and opportunities that your students will never forget.

#6 Night Markets

Taiwan's 300+ night markets await your midnight cravings. These open-air bazaars are particularly loved for street food, referred to locally as xiao-chi, literally "small eats".

#7 Hop Into The Hot Springs at Jiaoxi

The springs are located in Yilan County in the northeastern part of Taiwan. The park has several foot baths, water play areas, as well as sheltered resting areas. After washing your cares away, you might want to taste the local cuisine prepared with vegetables cultivated with waters from the hot springs.

#8 Learn the Art of Taiwanese Cooking

Whether you are dying to learn or just hungry for new experiences, learning Taiwanese cooking in Taiwan cannot be matched. Our cooking teacher opens her home and kitchen to us while teaching us about the unique flavors and recipes of Taiwan for a home-style cooking experience that you will never forget.

#9 Experience the City of Taipei  

A 300-year-old city, this unhurried but vibrant capital has taken a bit to find its own identity. With Chinese, Japanese, and Western influences in its food, culture, folk arts, and architecture, Taipei has finally decided that it's a mix, and better for it.

#10 Immerse Yourself in Native Cultures and Traditions

The Atayal (泰雅) are the second largest tribe of Taiwanese aborigines that still practice many of their traditions including dancing, singing, weaving, and speaking the Atayal language.

#11 Bubble Teas!

If you visit Taiwan you can't help but notice the unique bubble teashops on every corner. Bubble Tea to Taiwan is what coffee or soda is to the U.S. Stretch your horizons and try out a delicious glass!


#12 Toroko National Park and Gorge

The main attraction of Taroko Gorge is its phenomenal landscape. With a very steep relief rising from the sea level into high mountains, deep canyons, and mountain forests, you're destined to be amazed. The tunnel of Nine Turns, a twisting cave with spectacular views over the canyon, the Eternal Spring Shrine, the Swallow Grotto, the Wenshan Hot Springs, and Baiyang Waterfall are some of the most memorable sites along the way.

#13 Ride the Bullet Train

Taiwan’s High-Speed Rail is quick and stylish. There’s nothing like sitting in comfort sipping a coffee while the world blurs beneath you at 150mph. Taiwan has one of the fastest trains in the world, catapulting you from Taipei to Kaohsiung in just 90 minutes.

#14 Yangming Mountain

High in the north of Taiwan and very close to downtown Taipei, with volcanic sights, tranquil valleys, various plants and hot springs, this mountain is the largest and most beautiful natural area on the whole island. With exquisitely designed bridges, elegant pavilions, and beautiful flowers, the Back Mountain Park, also called Yangming Mountain Park, is well known for its volcanoes, crater lakes, and hot springs.