Seeing Taiwan by train: Soaking up art, scenery and architecture from Taichung to Taitung
Little prepares you for someone in a homemade Iron Man costume grabbing your phone for a selfie. But then, few places are like Rainbow Village, a quirky art project devised by an ex-soldier to save former military homes from developers in Taichung. Bright murals cover the surviving buildings, which are now among Taiwan's popular offbeat tourist attractions, along with their flamboyant,…
Traveling from Taichung to Taitung on Taiwan's train network offers a unique perspective on the island's art, scenery, and architecture. In Taichung, the city bursts with color during a lively parade en route to Fengchia Night Market. Riding the efficient rail network allows travelers to enjoy lush greenery and rugged coastlines without the stress of navigation.
The trip begins in Taipei and quickly takes passengers to Hualien, a coastal city near the Taroko Gorge National Park. Despite recent damage from a 7.4-magnitude earthquake, the park's marble canyon remains a breathtaking sight. Hualien is also home to Qixingtan Beach, where blue skies meet a dramatic grey shoreline. Visitors can appreciate Taiwan's love for the outdoors by exploring various parks, including medieval-themed Cikasuan and Taipingyang, which features beachside cycling tracks and animal sculptures.
In Meilunshun, travelers can view a historic viewing point with hula hoop enthusiasts and relish lemongrass tea and pepper pancakes at an indigenous cafe. The train ride to Taitung passes through mountainous settlements and ends in the town of Taitung, where the Makapahay indigenous culture festival showcases traditional performances and a central forest park.
The next day, heavy rain forces visitors to seek shelter at Tianhou Temple, an elaborate temple illuminated by numerous lights. Weather permitting, a taxi tour explores Xiaoyeliu, Water Running Upward, and Fugang Geopark, each offering unique geological features. A connection to Kenting by express bus and a scooter ride takes travelers to Taiwan's southernmost town, where a vibrant main street comes alive at night with food carts, games, and entertainment.
A short drive leads to Cape Eluanbi, where park trails and lookout spots showcase volcanic rocks, caves, and the historic Eluanbi Lighthouse. Finally, a return journey by train to Kaohsiung reveals the city's blend of traditional charm and modern attractions, including Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Centre, and Taiwan's largest shopping mall.
High-speed rail connections from Kaohsiung to Taichung allow travelers to explore the Rainbow Village and Wen-Xin Forest Park, as well as the city's contemporary art scene.
Written by urgent.news from The National Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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