Everyone is traveling to Japan. Here's why you should book a trip to Taiwan instead
Japan has well and truly cemented itself as a favoured Aussie holiday destination - nearly one million of us visited the country last year.
So if you've already checked it off your list, you might be wondering where to head next.
Many Aussies are now setting their sights on an underrated Asian destination.
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Taiwan has everything from beautiful landscapes to bustling cities. Getty Images/iStockphoto
According to travel booking platform Klook, there has been a 41 per cent surge in searches for Southeast Asia among Aussies in the last year.
And while Japan and Vietnam remain in the top searches, an interesting new destination has seen a spike in popularity: Taiwan.
The number of Australians choosing Taiwan for their next holiday has increased by 21 per cent.
A small island between China and Japan, Taiwan has everything that travellers love about Japan, but with much fewer crowds.
Think vibrant, fun cities, a ton of history, beautiful landscapes to explore, and delicious food.
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There's been a 21 per cent increase in Aussies visiting Taiwan. Getty Images/iStockphoto
"We know Taiwan is especially appealing to Aussies because it offers similarly vibrant and cosmopolitan experiences to Japan or South Korea, often with a more affordable price tag," a spokesperson from Klook tells 9Travel.
Taipei, the capital, is a great alternative to Tokyo.
"As a city bursting with energy through the day and night, the capital of Taipei could easily rival Tokyo for its towering skyscrapers, quirky hotels, shopping, and vibrant street food markets."
It's also safe and easy to get around, thanks to their efficient public transport system.
The beaches in the south are clean and beautiful. Getty
Outside of Taipei, quickly growing tourist infrastructure means that there is plenty to explore for first-time visitors.
The Central Mountain Range, which runs down the centre of the island, offers great hiking opportunities with amazing views.
Kenting National Park, in the south, has amazing beaches and dramatic cliffs which almost look like Hawaii.
For another Japan comparison, Yangmingshan National Park, just outside Taipei, has hot springs and comes alive with cherry blossoms during spring.
It's also cheap and easy to visit Taiwan. Aussies don't need a visa and there are several direct flights to Taipei from Sydney and Melbourne, which take nine to 10 hours.
Taiwan is lush and green. Getty
Can Australians visit Taiwan?
Taiwan has a visa-exempt entry scheme, so Australian citizens are able to travel there for stays of up to 90 days without needing to apply for a visa.
Is Taiwan expensive for Australian tourists?
Taiwan is a relatively small island, which means that prices are typically higher here for tourists, when compared to other Asian holiday spots like Japan or Thailand.
However, a holiday in Taiwan will still be cheaper than going to the US or many spots in Europe.
Ximending is a lively part of Taiwan. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Things to do in Taipei
Taipei will be your first stop on a trip to Taiwan, and it's worth spending at least a few days exploring the capital.
Here are some must-sees:
- Hike Elephant Mountain for a panoramic view of the city
- Head to the top of the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper
- Grab dinner at one of the city's famous night markets
- Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a grand monument with a famous changing of the guard ceremony
- Wander around Ximending, a trendy shopping neighbourhood often compared to Tokyo's Harajuku
- Take a day trip to hike through the volcanic landscapes of Yangmingshan National Park in the city's northern suburbs
- Enjoy amazing views on the Maokong Gondola as you ascend to tea fields above the city
Take a boat trip around the famous Sun Moon Lake. Getty Images/iStockphoto
What are the top things to do in Taiwan?
Outside of the capital city of Taipei, there are plenty of things for tourists to do. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Hike the scenic trails around the marble cliffs of Taroko National Park
- Cycle or take a boat tour around the beautiful Sun Moon Lake
- Take a day trip to the historic village of Jiufen Old Street, known for its narrow alleys, traditional teahouses, and red lanterns
- Relax in the geothermal waters of the Beitou Hot Springs, just outside Taipei
- Visit Yehliu Geopark, a narrow cape jutting into the sea with otherworldly rock formations
- Get in touch with nature at Alishan National Forest, where there are misty forests, ancient cypress trees, and amazing sunrises
Visit in spring for cherry blossom season. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Which month is best to visit Taiwan?
The best time to visit Taiwan is generally during the autumn and spring, from September to November and March to May.
During these months, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower humidity.
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