Wonderful Places in Taiwan – Sun Moon Lake and Taipei

Taiwan is an interesting country which acquired the name Ilha Formosa, Gorgeous Island, after Portuguese navigators were stunned by its beauty. This sweet potato shaped island is located in eastern Asia near China and is surrounded by the Philippine Sea, the Taiwan Sea and South China Sea.

Taiwan is privileged by having a picturesque landscape being covered by rolling hills and cliffs of Penghu, the majestic Mountains of Wulai, ruggedness of Taroko Gorge and Taian Hot Springs. Culture and heritage are quite rich in Taiwan as it is influenced by Chinese, Taiwanese aboriginal and a hint of Western culture. Tourists of the wonderful places in Taiwan all agree that the hospitality of the locals is unmatched worldwide.

Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake is Taiwan’s largest natural lake and is shaped as a crescent which is open towards the west and round in the east. The lake with a surface area of about 8 km^2 is surrounded by marvelous mountains. Sun Moon homes the Aboriginal tribe, Thao, whose members are the only ones allowed to visit the sacred island for Shao worshippers located in the middle of the lake. However, visitors can get informed about Thao’s history at the Aboriginal Cultural Village which is constructed near the lake.

Taipei

No one can visit Taiwan without stopping at its cosmopolitan capital and largest city, Taipai. Taipei means ‘North Taiwan’ as it place lies in the central basin of north Taiwan Island. A major attraction in Taipei is Longshan Temple which was constructed by Han Chinese settlers in 1738. The temple is adorned by a Chinese courtyard, called a siheyuan, and an architectural design resembling palaces. Another must see landmark in Taipei is the Taipei 101 building. This masterpiece is made of 106 floors, 5 underground and 101 above ground. Even though Taiwan is prone to natural catastrophes such as typhoons and earthquakes, Taipei 101 is a well-prepared skyscraper that can survive such harsh conditions.

Sun Moon Lake

Taipei