Taiwan Sanrio Themed Sightseeing Train Full-Day Island Star – Travel Experience Taiwan Travel around Taiwan on a Sanrio-themed sightseeing train with colourful carriages, scenic views and onboard activities. The Taiwan Sanrio themed sightseeing train is one of the cutest and most unusual rail experiences in Taiwan. Also known as the Island Star, Formosa Express or Moe Journey train, this special sightseeing train turns a long rail journey into a themed travel experience filled with Sanrio character designs, comfortable seats, meals, drinks, activities and scenic views from the window. The Trip.com package is designed for non-Taiwan residents and offers east and west one-day round-island train options departing from Taipei. It is a fun…
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From Taipei MRT: Take the Brown (Wenshan–Neihu) Line to Taipei Zoo Station, then hop on the official festival shuttle bus (approx NT$50 one way; ~40 minutes).eWave+9gourmetflyer.com+9橘子貓TTtrips+9
Why use it: The festival area will be heavily traffic-controlled, banning most private vehicles.
By Train
Take a TRA local train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang (~45 minutes).
Heads-up: Expect crowded trains and platforms—arrive early.
By Tour Bus
Organized tours (via Klook, Viator, etc.) provide round-trip transport, English-speaking guides, and often include lanterns—great for stress-free participation.The Sensible Fay+2Taiwan Travel Blog+2eWave+1
Planning & Participation Tips
Register early: To join the official mass lantern release, arrive before 10:30 AM to get a free ticket and lantern—these are limited!Rove+5The Sensible Fay+5Taiwan Obsessed+5
Release waves: Lanterns are sent off in 20-minute intervals between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM—stay near your timeslot for the best experience.The Sensible FayRove
What if tickets run out? You can still buy a lantern from vendors along the railway tracks and release it independently—though not as part of the main ceremony.eWave+10The Sensible Fay+10AP News+10
Environmental note: Consider using eco-friendly lanterns (made of rice paper and bamboo) and visit cleanup initiatives—some are held after the festival.gourmetflyer.com+1
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Taiwan is home to 16 officially recognized indigenous groups, each with unique traditions, music, cuisine, and festivals. From the Amis on the east coast to the Paiwan and Rukai in the south, Taiwan’s indigenous heritage is a vital part of the island’s identity. As a visitor, you can experience this culture in enriching and respectful ways.
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Taiwan Sanrio Themed Sightseeing Train Full-Day Island Star – Travel Experience Taiwan Travel around Taiwan on a Sanrio-themed sightseeing train with colourful carriages, scenic views and onboard activities. The Taiwan Sanrio themed sightseeing train is one of the cutest and most unusual rail experiences in Taiwan. Also known as the Island Star, Formosa Express or Moe Journey train, this special sightseeing train turns a long rail journey into a themed travel experience filled with Sanrio character designs, comfortable seats, meals, drinks, activities and scenic views from the window. The Trip.com package is designed for non-Taiwan residents and offers east and west one-day round-island train options departing from Taipei. It is a fun…
Quick take: Trip.com helps you compare prices across accommodations. Use it to shortlist hotels, then click through to confirm the final price, room type, and inclusions on the booking site.
History: Taiwan’s indigenous peoples are Austronesian, sharing linguistic and cultural links with communities across the Pacific.
Where they live: Many communities are based in Hualien, Taitung, Nantou, and Pingtung, as well as mountain villages.
Today: Indigenous groups maintain traditional practices alongside modern life, with festivals, crafts, and eco-tourism helping preserve their heritage.
🎉 Festivals & Events
Amis Harvest Festival (Ilisin) – Held each July–August, celebrating harvest with music, dance, and feasting.
Paiwan & Rukai Ceremonies – Known for beadwork, weaving, and slate houses.
Thao Tribe at Sun Moon Lake – Performances and storytelling bring their lake-based traditions to life.
💡 Respectful Travel Tip: If you’re invited to observe or participate, ask before taking photos and avoid interrupting rituals.
🏞️ Where to Experience Indigenous Culture
1. Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village (Nantou)
A mix of theme park and cultural centre near Sun Moon Lake.
Live shows, reconstructed villages, and indigenous dance performances.
Easy to access via the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway.
Best for: Families and first-time visitors who want a broad introduction.
2. Lanyu (Orchid Island)
Home of the Tao/Yami people, famous for traditional canoes and fishing culture.
Remote and less touristy, offering deep cultural immersion.
Best for: Adventurous travellers seeking authentic experiences.
3. Hualien & Taitung
Strong Amis and Bunun communities, known for music, millet wine, and weaving.
Cultural tours often include dance, handicraft workshops, and cooking experiences.
Best for: Nature-lovers pairing indigenous tours with Taroko Gorge or East Coast trips.
4. Kenting & Pingtung
Paiwan and Rukai tribes showcase unique arts—especially beaded jewellery and slate houses.
Village homestays and guided tours help visitors connect directly with artisans.
Best for: Southern Taiwan explorers.
🚆 How to Get Around
HSR (High Speed Rail): Connects you quickly to Taichung, Chiayi, Tainan, and Kaohsiung before bus transfers to indigenous areas.
TRA Trains: Perfect for Hualien and Taitung on the east coast.
Guided Tours: Many include transport, meals, and cultural activities—ideal for travellers without Mandarin skills.
🏨 Where to Stay
Sun Moon Lake: Lakeside resorts with easy access to the Thao tribe’s performances.
Hualien/Taitung: Guesthouses and eco-lodges run by indigenous families.
Kenting/Pingtung: Village stays and B&Bs that support local communities.
🎟️ Best Bookable Tours
Indigenous Amis Harvest Festival Tour (Viator)
Sun Moon Lake Ropeway + Aboriginal Culture Village Package (Klook)
East Coast Indigenous Culture & Craft Experience (Musement)
Paiwan Beadwork & Village Tour in Pingtung (Viator)
🙏 How to Travel Respectfully
Ask before photographing people, homes, or rituals.
Buy local crafts directly from artisans rather than mass-market shops.
Participate mindfully in dances or activities if invited—follow local lead.
Respect traditions around food, sacred spaces, and clothing.
Support community-based tourism where your spending directly benefits indigenous families.
✨ Final Thoughts
Taiwan’s indigenous cultures offer some of the island’s most meaningful travel experiences. From dance festivals on the east coast to quiet homestays in mountain villages, each encounter is a chance to connect with people who have shaped Taiwan’s history for thousands of years.
By travelling respectfully—supporting local communities, learning before you go, and being mindful as a guest—you’ll leave with not just beautiful memories, but also a deeper appreciation for Taiwan’s living heritage.
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Taiwan’s temples are not just religious sites—they’re cultural hubs blending Taoist, Buddhist, and folk traditions. Each temple tells a story through intricate carvings, smoky incense, and lively festivals. Here’s a north-to-south route covering the most iconic temples in Taiwan.
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Quick take: Trip.com offers a worldwide selection of tours and attractions and hotels
Taiwan Sanrio Themed Sightseeing Train Full-Day Island Star – Travel Experience Taiwan Travel around Taiwan on a Sanrio-themed sightseeing train with colourful carriages, scenic views and onboard activities. The Taiwan Sanrio themed sightseeing train is one of the cutest and most unusual rail experiences in Taiwan. Also known as the Island Star, Formosa Express or Moe Journey train, this special sightseeing train turns a long rail journey into a themed travel experience filled with Sanrio character designs, comfortable seats, meals, drinks, activities and scenic views from the window. The Trip.com package is designed for non-Taiwan residents and offers east and west one-day round-island train options departing from Taipei. It is a fun…
Quick take: Trip.com helps you compare prices across accommodations. Use it to shortlist hotels, then click through to confirm the final price, room type, and inclusions on the booking site.
Why visit: Built in 1738, it’s one of the most famous temples in Taiwan, dedicated to Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy). A mix of Taoist and Buddhist deities makes it a spiritual melting pot.
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Quick take: Trip.com offers a worldwide selection of tours and attractions and hotels
Tiong Bahru Quaint Little Shops Experience Singapore – Guided Sightseeing Tiong Bahru Quaint Little Shops Experience (Singapore) A guided walk through Tiong Bahru: local shops, murals, and a food crawl in one of Singapore’s oldest housing districts. Tiong Bahru is one of Singapore’s most character-filled neighbourhoods—think art deco architecture, quirky local businesses, iconic murals, and a café scene that sits right alongside old-school tradition. This 2 hour 30 minute guided walking tour combines a shop-and-mural trail with a local food crawl. Check dates & book on Musement Source: Musement listing Quick facts From: $76.00 Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes Language: English Tour style: Guided walking tour (local touch, smaller group…
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Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Quick take: Trip.com offers a worldwide selection of tours and attractions and hotels
JR East Hotel Taipei Kai Hua Lou Banryu Palace Gozen Option for 2 –… China JR East Hotel Taipei Kai Hua Lou Banryu Palace Gozen Option for 2 (lunch or dinner voucher, no extra charge on holidays) explores the destination through flavour and regional customs. JR East Hotel Taipei Kai Hua Lou Banryu Palace Gozen Option for 2 (lunch or dinner voucher, no extra charge on holidays): experience overview Near Nanjing Fuxing MRT Station;Showcasing Chinese flavors with Beijing imperial cuisine;Exquisite creative Chinese cuisine Available from trip.com. This makes the experience a useful option when planning time in > Taipei local experienceSearch Results. The exact duration can depend on the selected date, option or operating schedule.…
Quick take: Trip.com helps you compare prices across accommodations. Use it to shortlist hotels, then click through to confirm the final price, room type, and inclusions on the booking site.
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Taiwan Sanrio Themed Sightseeing Train Full-Day Island Star – Travel Experience Taiwan Travel around Taiwan on a Sanrio-themed sightseeing train with colourful carriages, scenic views and onboard activities. The Taiwan Sanrio themed sightseeing train is one of the cutest and most unusual rail experiences in Taiwan. Also known as the Island Star, Formosa Express or Moe Journey train, this special sightseeing train turns a long rail journey into a themed travel experience filled with Sanrio character designs, comfortable seats, meals, drinks, activities and scenic views from the window. The Trip.com package is designed for non-Taiwan residents and offers east and west one-day round-island train options departing from Taipei. It is a fun…
Quick take: Trip.com helps you compare prices across accommodations. Use it to shortlist hotels, then click through to confirm the final price, room type, and inclusions on the booking site.
Street food to try at Liuhe Night Market, Kaohsiung
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Kaohsiung City Pass – Kaohsiung Fun Pass – Full – Day and Three – Day –… Kaohsiung City Pass | Kaohsiung Fun Pass | One-Day and Three-Day Passes | Recommended Kaohsiung Travel Guide gives independent travellers a flexible framework for organising several sightseeing stops. Kaohsiung City Pass | Kaohsiung Fun Pass | One-Day and Three-Day Passes | Recommended Kaohsiung Travel Guide: experience overview The MRT and light rail allow you to easily explore Kaohsiung, visit popular attractions, taste local delicacies, and take away a free pair of glasses from the "Kaohsiung Dragon Tiger Tower"!;self-guided tour flexible travel options with popular attractions and transportation options!; ️ All attractions do not require advance reservations, you can buy and…
Quick take: Trip.com helps you compare prices across accommodations. Use it to shortlist hotels, then click through to confirm the final price, room type, and inclusions on the booking site.
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
JR East Hotel Taipei Kai Hua Lou Banryu Palace Gozen Option for 2 –… China JR East Hotel Taipei Kai Hua Lou Banryu Palace Gozen Option for 2 (lunch or dinner voucher, no extra charge on holidays) explores the destination through flavour and regional customs. JR East Hotel Taipei Kai Hua Lou Banryu Palace Gozen Option for 2 (lunch or dinner voucher, no extra charge on holidays): experience overview Near Nanjing Fuxing MRT Station;Showcasing Chinese flavors with Beijing imperial cuisine;Exquisite creative Chinese cuisine Available from trip.com. This makes the experience a useful option when planning time in > Taipei local experienceSearch Results. The exact duration can depend on the selected date, option or operating schedule.…
Quick take: Trip.com helps you compare prices across accommodations. Use it to shortlist hotels, then click through to confirm the final price, room type, and inclusions on the booking site.
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Taipei Cooking Class & Market Adventure in Historic Dadaocheng – Food &… Taipei Cooking Class & Market Adventure in Historic Dadaocheng offers a hands-on way to engage with local skills or traditions. Taipei Cooking Class & Market Adventure in Historic Dadaocheng: experience overview From traditional markets to the creation of Taiwanese delicacies, immerse yourself in the historic Dadaocheng district of Taipei and experience a unique encounter with local culinary culture.;Local experts from Dadaocheng will guide you through Taipei's immigrant history and explore the city's colonial-era commercial center.;Small class sizes of up to 6 people allow for easy communication with the instructor about food and culture topics. Available from trip.com. This makes the…
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Whale watching tours in Hualien – best season and operators
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Hualien whale watching – Doloman Ocean Whale Watching Tour Experience –… Hualien whale watching | Doloman Ocean Whale Watching Tour Experience places landscapes, habitats or wildlife at the centre of the experience. Hualien whale watching | Doloman Ocean Whale Watching Tour Experience: experience overview Hualien is home to over 20 species of whales and dolphins. Boarding the Turumoan Whale Watching Experience boat offers the chance to observe various marine creatures, with a whale and dolphin sighting rate exceeding 90%.;Eco-tour with professional guided commentary by Kuroshio Ocean Education Foundation volunteers, exploring stories of mountains, seas, and whales;Each trip includes a beautifully designed whale and dolphin postcard, letting you "mail" home with these…
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Paragliding in Puli, Taiwan – how to book and what to expect
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Taiwan Sanrio Themed Sightseeing Train Full-Day Island Star – Travel Experience Taiwan Travel around Taiwan on a Sanrio-themed sightseeing train with colourful carriages, scenic views and onboard activities. The Taiwan Sanrio themed sightseeing train is one of the cutest and most unusual rail experiences in Taiwan. Also known as the Island Star, Formosa Express or Moe Journey train, this special sightseeing train turns a long rail journey into a themed travel experience filled with Sanrio character designs, comfortable seats, meals, drinks, activities and scenic views from the window. The Trip.com package is designed for non-Taiwan residents and offers east and west one-day round-island train options departing from Taipei. It is a fun…
Quick take: Trip.com helps you compare prices across accommodations. Use it to shortlist hotels, then click through to confirm the final price, room type, and inclusions on the booking site.
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This guide covers what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and the best bookable tours to make the most of your time.
Beitou Hot Spring Museum & Beitou Library & Yangmingshan National Park… Beitou Hot Spring Museum + Beitou Library + Yangmingshan National Park 1-day tour [Guaranteed departure] adds a restorative pause to the itinerary. Beitou Hot Spring Museum + Beitou Library + Yangmingshan National Park 1-day tour [Guaranteed departure]: experience overview Visit the world's urban quiet park certified by the International Quiet Parks Organization: Yangmingshan National Park;Discover the wonders of Datun Volcano Group and experience its unique charm in every season;Experience the Japanese ambiance of the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, a third-grade historic site, and visit the century-old Roman bath. Available from trip.com. This makes the experience a useful option when planning…
Quick take: Trip.com helps you compare prices across accommodations. Use it to shortlist hotels, then click through to confirm the final price, room type, and inclusions on the booking site.
