Best National Parks in Taiwan

Taiwan is famous for its bustling cities and delicious street food, but its natural landscapes are just as impressive. From dramatic marble gorges and towering mountains to tropical coastlines and volcanic peaks, Taiwan's national parks showcase the island's incredible biodiversity and scenic beauty.

1. Taroko National Park

Located on Taiwan's east coast, Taroko National Park is one of the country's most iconic destinations. The park is renowned for Taroko Gorge, where the Liwu River has carved deep marble canyons through towering cliffs.

Best time to visit: March to May and October to November.

Highlights

• Taroko Gorge
• Marble cliffs and the Liwu River Valley
• Xiangde Temple
• Taroko Visitor Center

Best Activities

• Hiking
• Scenic driving
• Photography
• River valley sightseeing

2. Yushan National Park

Home to Jade Mountain (Yushan), Taiwan's highest peak at 3,952 metres, this park attracts hikers from around the world. The park features alpine forests, dramatic ridges, and diverse wildlife.

Note: Climbing Jade Mountain requires advance permits.

Best time to visit: October to April for clearer skies.

Highlights

• Jade Mountain Summit
• Tataka Recreation Area
• Alpine forests
• Mountain sunrises

Best Activities

• Multi-day hiking
• Birdwatching
• Camping
• Stargazing

3. Kenting National Park

Taiwan's southernmost national park combines white-sand beaches, coral reefs, tropical forests, and coastal cliffs, making it a favourite destination for beach lovers.

Best time to visit: November to April for pleasant weather.

Highlights

• Eluanbi Lighthouse
• Longpan Park
• Nanwan Beach
• Coral reef coastline

Best Activities

• Snorkelling
• Diving
• Swimming
• Coastal walks

4. Yangmingshan National Park

Just a short drive from Taipei, Yangmingshan National Park is famous for volcanic landscapes, hot springs, seasonal flower blooms, and hiking trails.

Best time to visit: February to April for blossoms or autumn for hiking.

Highlights

• Qixing Mountain
• Xiaoyoukeng fumaroles
• Hot springs
• Cherry blossoms (spring)

Best Activities

• Day hiking
• Hot spring visits
• Flower viewing
• Nature photography

5. Shei-Pa National Park

Shei-Pa National Park protects Taiwan's second-highest mountain, Xueshan, along with ancient forests, alpine lakes, and rich biodiversity.

Best time to visit: Autumn and spring.

Highlights

• Xueshan (Snow Mountain)
• Alpine forests
• High mountain ecosystems
• Wildlife habitats

Best Activities

• Mountain trekking
• Wildlife observation
• Landscape photography

6. Kinmen National Park

Located on Kinmen Island, this national park blends nature, history, and culture. It is known for traditional villages, military heritage, wetlands, and migratory birds.

Best time to visit: October to April.

Highlights

• Historic villages
• Wetlands
• Coastal scenery
• Military tunnels

Best Activities

• Cycling
• Birdwatching
• Cultural exploration
• Photography

7. Taijiang National Park

Situated along Taiwan's southwest coast, Taijiang National Park protects extensive wetlands, lagoons, and mangrove forests.

Best time to visit: Winter, when migratory birds arrive.

Highlights

• Sicao Green Tunnel
• Mangrove forests
• Coastal wetlands
• Birdwatching areas

Best Activities

• Boat tours
• Wildlife photography
• Birdwatching
• Eco-tourism

Wildlife You May See

Taiwan's national parks are home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including:

• Formosan macaques
• Sambar deer
• Taiwan serow
• Black-faced spoonbills
• Mikado pheasants
• Numerous butterfly species
• Colourful mountain birds

Always observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid feeding animals.

Tips for Visiting Taiwan's National Parks

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.
• Carry sufficient drinking water and snacks.
• Check weather forecasts before mountain hikes.
• Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
• Apply sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Bring lightweight rain gear, especially during warmer months.
• Reserve permits in advance for restricted hiking routes.

Best Time to Visit Taiwan's National Parks