Day 1, Friday/Saturday - Los Angeles or San Francisco/Taipei
Depart via China Airlines trans-Pacific flight for Taipei. Cross the International Date Line.
Day 2, Saturday/Sunday - Taipei
Arrive in Taipei, government seat of Republic of China. Transfer to your hotel. (Grand Victoria/Regent)
Day 3, Sunday/Monday - Taipei
After breakfast, take a classic Taipei day tour to explore the city’s iconic historic landmarks and the modern tourist spots. Visit the world-renowned National Palace Museum that houses the largest collection of ancient Chinese artifacts in the world; Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a prominent monument that symbolizes a significant period of Taiwan's history; Lungshan Temple, which represents the local religious beliefs and practices; and the famous skyscraper Taipei 101 (not including observatory ticket), which showcases the modern technology and globalization of the city. Remainder of the day free. (B)
Day 4, Monday/Tuesday - Taipei/Sun Moon Lake
In the morning depart from central Taipei and travel to the heart of the island, Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area. Sun Moon Lake, the largest freshwater lake on the island, 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 abundant natural beauty, Sun Moon Lake has earned its place as one of Taiwan's premier destinations. After lunch, continue with a scenic bus tour around Sun Moon Lake, where you could explore the most renowned attractions in this area. Begin with a visit to Ita Thao, an indigenous village that offers insights into the culture and lifestyle of the Thao people. Then, marvel at the grandeur of Ci'en Pagoda, an iconic Sun Moon Lake landmark constructed by the late President Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother. Then stop at two significant temples. First, Xuanzang Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary dedicated to the esteemed monk Xuanzang. Then, to Wenwu Temple, an imposing Taoist temple featuring three halls devoted to the Martial God and the God of Literature. In the evening enjoy a comfortable stay in a 5-star hotel in the serene surroundings of Sun Moon Lake. (Fleur de Chine) (B)
Day 5, Tuesday/Wednesday - Sun Moon Lake/Tainan/Fo Guang Shan Temple/Kaohsiung
After breakfast, hop on the bus and make your way to Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan, celebrated for its abundance of historic buildings and profound historical heritage. Visit Fort Zeelandia, 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 subsequently rebuilt by the Japanese. Take a leisurely walk along Anping Old Street. 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 known for its local specialties such as tofu pudding, shrimp rolls, fish skin dishes, beef soup, and many more. Don’t miss the chance to savor the city’s signature delicacies, adding a delightful culinary experience to this historical journey in Tainan. After lunch, travel to the romantic harbor city of Kaohsiung, the most populous city in Southern Taiwan. Upon arriving in Kaohsiung, first stop at the renowned Fo Guang Shan Monastery, 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-meter-tall golden statue of 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’ll have the opportunity to engage with a knowledgeable monk who provides insights into the doctrines and development of Buddhism. Tonight, you’ll have a pleasant stay in a conveniently located 5-star hotel, surrounded by department store, convenience stores, and drugstores. (Grand Hi-Lai) (B)
Day 6, Wednesday/Thursday - Kaohsiung/Kenting/Chihpen Hot Springs/Taitung
After breakfast, set out on your journey as you head south toward the border, where Taiwan’s first national park awaits. 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. Stops include Eluanpi Lighthouse, a Qing Dynasty-era construction that was recognized as one of the Eight Views of Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period; and Longpan Park, a coral limestone plateau overlooking the Pacific Ocean, 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 savor the continually shifting landscapes throughout your drive. Tonight, you’ll 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. Enjoy natural hot spring at Hotel Royal Chihpen. (Royal Chihpen) (B)
Day 7, Thursday/Friday - Taitung/Hualien/Yilan
Journey along the east coast, known as the last unspoiled place of the island. Visit some of the most impressive scenic spots along the way, including Xiaoyeliu, Sanxiantai, Shitiping, and Fanshuliao, each boasting its own distinctive geological features. The first stop is Xiaoyehliu (literally “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. Adventure continues with a visit to Sanxiantai (literally the terrace of the three immortals), which comprises an offshore island and coral reefs, with 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, make a stop at Shitiping (literally 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. From Hualien to Yilan, experience a one-way comfortable train ride. Tonight, stay at a 5-star hot-spring hotel in Jiaoxi. (Wellsping by Silks Jiaoxi) (B)
Day 8, Friday/Saturday - Yilan/Taipei
Today, the guide will take you to visit the King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery and the National Center for Traditional Arts. King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery is known worldwide for its exquisite flavors 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 flavors nurtured in oak barrels, embarking on a fascinating distillery exploration journey. Continue to visit National Center 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. Conclude your unforgettable round island tour by taking bus back to Taipei City, where you are dropped off at your hotel or designated drop-off point. (Grand Victoria/Regent) (B)
Day 9, Saturday/Sunday - Taipei/Los Angeles or San Francisco
After transfer to airport, board China Airlines flight to return to the US, arriving home the same day. (B)
%20Vietnam.jpg)
