Introducing Yushan National Park & Western Taiwan
If you want contrasts, head to western Taiwan and start at the coastline, continue through rich farmland and end in the high mountains of the central range. In fact, for a study in contrasts, just head to the Alishan National Scenic Area. Here you can travel through three biogeographical zones – tropical, subtropical and temperate – in just three hours (a rare old single-track alpine railway is your carriage).
But unless you have unlimited time, the west’s contrasts will demand you choose from among them. Should you explore Taiwan’s southern Chinese heritage (which includes a great collection of temples) or its aboriginal culture? Should you join a pilgrimage for the goddess of the sea or learn to meditate at a Buddhist temple? Should you climb one of the highest mountains in East Asia or cycle easy bike lanes through the countryside?
Of all the regions in Taiwan, this is one we suggest you follow our advice for most carefully (which includes letting you know those areas you don’t need to follow our advice). While there are some real treasures out there, there’s also a lot of dismal wasteland. In general, the cities can be given a miss except as jumping-off points. For smaller towns, don’t miss Lukang, Puli and, to a lesser extent, Changhua, even if your time is tight. Forget the miles of coastline unless you like Styrofoam, cables, plastic and – you get the picture. Look to the rice fields, the mountains and Sun Moon Lake, the largest body of water in Taiwan, for your scenic fix.
Activities in Yushan National Park & Western Taiwan
Taichung
Under Japanese, and later KMT, economic planning, Kaohsiung became the centre of heavy industry; Taipei the centre of colonial administration; and Taichung? The centre of light industry.
Alishan National Scenic Area
If you want to see Taiwan's natural environment raw in tooth and nail, visit a national park.
Yushan National Park & Western Taiwan destination guides
Lukang (Lugang)
Ninety percent of Lukang (Lùgǎng) is as nondescript as most small towns in Taiwan.
Hotels in Yushan National Park & Western Taiwan
Budget Hotels & Hostels in Yushan National Park & Western Taiwan
Guesthouses and B&Bs in Yushan National Park & Western Taiwan
Apartments in Yushan National Park & Western Taiwan
Changhua
Changhua City (Zhānghuà), the capital and political heart of Changhua County, has usually been thought of as a gateway to the old town of Lukang, but there are some treats in the town itself, including stately old temples, a giant Buddha on a...
Need to know
Entertainment in Yushan National Park & Western Taiwan
Chiayi
While Chiayi (Jiāyì) is not part of the Alishan National Scenic Area, almost every traveller will have to pass through here on the way there.
Shopping in Yushan National Park & Western Taiwan