A vacation to Taiwan with kids is fun! Taiwan is a country increasingly discovered by families with kids, and for good reason! You can make a nice tour in this country, combining culture, nature and beach. We made a tour through Taiwan with our family and in this blog we list the best family-friendly destinations in Taiwan. We also give a lot of family-friendly tips and information about this country.
Best travel time Taiwan with kids
Taiwan has several climate zones and generally has a mild climate. The best travel time to visit Taiwan with kids is in spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November). During this period, the weather is pleasantly mild, with less rain and fine temperatures. The summer months (May to September) can be very hot and humid, with a chance of typhoons. You have a chance of this especially in the months of June, July and August.
For families who love outdoor activities and nature, autumn (September to November) is a particularly good time to explore the country, as it is usually dry and not too hot. Spring (March to May) is also perfect for those who love blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. Taiwan unfortunately experiences frequent natural disasters.
Indeed, this area is particularly vulnerable because of the stresses created by the interaction of the Philippine Sea Plate and Eurasian Plate. The East in particular is often affected by earthquakes because this is where the main fault lines are located. However, Taiwan is excellently prepared for possible natural disasters and strict construction standards are enforced. Residents also receive regular education and there are excellent warning systems.
This is not to scare anyone, but in the spirit of “Prevention is better than cure.” we therefore recommend downloading the following apps. It is helpful to download the app Taiwan Weather for up-to-date information and warnings about typhoons. The app Earthquake Alert provides notifications of earthquakes in Taiwan. It is a reliable app with quick alerts.
Transportation to and in Taiwan
Taiwan has a well-developed network of transportation options. Public transportation is efficient, affordable and provides an easy way to explore the island. Taiwan has an excellent train system, including the TRA (Taiwan Railway Administration) for regional travel and the faster HSR (High-Speed Rail) that connects the west coast from north to south.
HSR trains are used for longer distances and connect the largest and most famous cities. You can easily buy a ticket at the station. Do keep the Google Translate app handy. In our experience, the further south you get in Taiwan, the less people speak English. Nevertheless, they will do everything they can to help you, using hands and feet or drawings if necessary.
In Taipei and other major cities like Kaohsiung, the subway (MRT) is a great way to get around the city quickly. A one-way ticket costs between €0.70 and €1.89, depending on the zones you travel in and how many stops you have. Kids up to 6 years old travel free on the subway. Kids between the ages of 6 and 12 pay 40% less for a ticket.
Traveling by bus is even cheaper, paying as little as 40 cents for a one-way ticket. For longer distances, there are comfortable long-distance buses that offer connections to other cities and tourist destinations. Despite the fact that open transportation is excellent in Taiwan, we still recommend renting your own car with kids.
This gives you just that extra flexibility for a successful road trip and gets you to places you can’t get to on public transportation that way. We have made excellent experiences with the party Coolaboola. Eddie the owner is from South Africa, so is fluent in English and this makes communication no problem at all.
They are not brand new cars but excellently maintained cars. Fancy an adventure? Taiwan is known as outdoor country and there are many camping sites available. You can also rent small RVs through Coolaboola. You need an international driver’s license to drive in Taiwan. Don’t worry when it comes to orientation. All road signs are written in English.
Here are also some tips for renting a car in Taiwan. Look carefully to see if the rental price includes tolls. At Coolaboola it was and you don’t have to do anything else. Gas stations can be found regularly. Especially along the east coast, however, it became a bit less and Eddie gave us the following tip. Always make sure your tank is at least half full.
We found the restrooms at gas stations not always neat and clean. However, you do often come across a Family Mart or 7/11 where you can use clean toilets for free. Parking is quite expensive compared to other activities on the island. We therefore recommend to always rent an accommodation with a (free) and private parking space.
Children’s activities northern Taiwan
Taipei
In this blog, we describe the different family-friendly destinations in Taiwan. Of course, you should also visit Taipei while touring Taiwan with kids. However, we have written a separate blog titled Taipei with kids, in which you will find all the information about this city. This also describes Yehliu Geopark and Jiufen as day trips that you should also definitely visit when visiting northern Taiwan with kids.
Shifen
Shifen is a short half-hour drive from Jiufen, making it great to combine these two family-friendly destinations. Also a charming village, Shifen is known for lighting lanterns and beautiful waterfalls. Shifen Waterfall is an impressive waterfall about 40 meters wide and 20 meters high. Also called the Niagara of Taiwan, the waterfall is one of Taiwan’s most impressive natural wonders.
Perhaps we have already seen too many waterfalls. It is certainly impressive, but we liked the scenery and the fine walk through the beautiful area, which includes temples. The waterfall was a fine and fun addition. It is easily accessible via a short hiking trail, and along the path are several vantage points where you can take pictures.
This path is also passable with small kids and a stroller. At the starting point you will find sanitary facilities, which are also scattered throughout the park. Entrance is free, but you do pay a small fee for parking your car. In addition to the waterfall, Shifen is also known for the tradition of lighting large wishing lanterns. Visitors can buy a lantern, write their wishes on it and then let it rise into the air.
This ritual is often associated with good luck and good wishes for the future. The lighting of lanterns takes place along the track of the old railroad line in Shifen.
Children’s Activities Eastern Taiwan
The east coast is a hidden gem you really shouldn’t miss! The drive along the coast is an experience in itself. The highway runs directly along the coast and the sea, and you drive past quaint villages where you can stop at market stalls. Here you can stock up on tropical fruits such as sugar apple (highly recommended for tasting).
Farglory Ocean Park
As you travel south, you will also encounter Farglory Ocean Park. This sprawling theme park has a Disney-like atmosphere and combines the magic of a theme park with the beautiful world of the ocean. The park has several themed areas, including a beautiful aquarium, fun water rides and a zoo. You will also find amusement park attractions, including a roller coaster and a Ferris wheel.
Perhaps the best part is the breathtaking view of the ocean from the amusement park. The park offers a nice change between culture and nature and is sure to make kids’ hearts beat faster.
Taroko National Park
Taroko National Park is one of Taiwan’s most beautiful natural areas and an absolute must-visit. Taroko’s most famous attraction is the Taroko Gorge, a gigantic gorge that flows into the sea. In addition to the gorge, the park is also home to many temples and cultural sites that reflect Taiwan’s rich history.
Popular stops include the Xiangde Temple and the Swallow Grotto, where you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Own transportation is really a must here, as this gives you the necessary freedom. First, make a stop at the visitor center at the park entrance, where you can learn more about this beautiful park. There is also a family-friendly play area and a museum.
To visit Taroko, you pay 3 euros entrance fee per person. Kids up to 6 years old can enter for free. Due to the many hairpin bends, you can easily get motion sickness. We therefore recommend taking something against car sickness just to be sure. It is also wise to bring plenty of snacks, as there are only a few places where you can stop for lunch or snacks.
The park has been closed for quite a while in the past due to an earthquake, so always check in advance if the park is open if you want to visit this park.
Children’s Activities Southern Taiwan
The south is known for its long tropical sandy beaches, diving and snorkeling areas, and the beautiful Kenting National Park. Kenting is the center and starting point for many activities in the area.
Beaches around Kenting / Life of Pi beach
Want to enjoy beautiful, clean and long sandy beaches and tropical vibes? Then you are Kenting in the right place. There are plenty of beautiful beaches you can visit with your kids. Life here, we noticed, doesn’t start until noon. If you want to be sure of a nice spot on the beach and enjoy the peace and quiet without many other people around you, make sure you arrive before 10 am.
We always got to the beach around 9:00/9:30 and were often completely alone until noon. That made the experience even more wonderful. One of Kenting’s most famous beaches is the beach from the movie Life of Pi (Baishawan Beach). This idyllic beach, with its crystal clear waters and fine white sand, served as the backdrop for some of the film’s most famous scenes.
Caution! The current is very strong, and we do not recommend swimming here with small kids. But you can bathe, find shells, build sandcastles, get ice cream and have a great time. Other beautiful beaches around Kenting are Baisha Beach, Nanwan Beach and Dawan Beach.
Eluanbi Lighthouse
Kenting National Park is also famous for its spectacular hiking trails, and one of the most family-friendly and beautiful (with paved surfaces, so also ideal for small kids and strollers) is the hike to Taiwan’s southernmost point. This iconic spot marks the tip of Taiwan, where the ocean seems to stretch endlessly.
It takes an average of about 15 to 25 minutes to get to the viewing platform. The starting point of the hike is the lighthouse at Eluanbi Cape. You can also park your car here for a fee. You can also take a look around and near the lighthouse. Because of its intense light, the lighthouse is known as the “light of East Asia.” It was built in the nineteenth century.
If you would like to visit the lighthouse, it is advisable to look up the opening hours online in advance. Unfortunately, when we were there, it was closed.
National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium
If you are in Kenting and love marine life, a visit to the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium is highly recommended! This extraordinary museum and aquarium gives you the chance to explore Taiwan’s rich underwater world without the need for your scuba gear.
Located in the middle of beautiful Kenting National Park, the museum offers a perfect combination of learning, exploring and having fun. What makes the aquarium so special are the large and fun interactive displays and huge underwater tunnels, where you are literally surrounded by marine life.
There is also a nice exhibit on history and marine life. Kids up to 6 years old have free admission. Adults and kids over 6 pay about 13 euros entrance fee.
Kenting Forest Recreation Area
This beautiful area, just steps from the main Kenting Street, offers a nice change from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a wonderful place for a walk among the tall trees, caves and rainforest. The hiking trails wind through lush forests and offer occasional scenic views.
What makes this park extra nice is that it is not only a green oasis, but also contains a piece of Taiwanese culture. There are a few small temples and traditional wooden buildings that add charm to the area. Go prepared and take a look at the official website of Kenting Forest Recreation Area beforehand. Here all the different attractions and hiking trails are explained.
Children’s Activities Eastern Taiwan
Kaohsiung
A 2-hour drive from Kenting is the beautiful port city of Kaohsiung. Kaohsiung is known for the Lotus Pond, the many Night Markets and the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts. We personally found Kaohsiung to be the nicest city in Taiwan.
Lotus Pound
When in Kaohsiung, the Lotus Pound is not to be missed. Located in the northeastern part of the city, this beautiful lake offers a nice change from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a place where you can enjoy nature, culture and typical Taiwanese charm. Lotus Pound is famous for the large number of impressive temples such as the Tiger and Bear Bridge. No one temple looks alike.
Thus, at the Tiger and Dragon Temple, you go through the mouth of the dragon and exit through the mouth of the tiger. This is how you regain your lost happiness. About 500 m away you have the Spring and Autumn Pagoda where in summer the whole water is covered with colorful lotus flowers. The pagodas are connected by a charmingly decorated bridge, and climbing the stairs to the upper floors is highly recommended.
From there you have a magnificent view of Lotus Pond and the surrounding nature. Also here you have the opportunity to walk through the temple’s dragon or you can feed the turtles that swim here. A fun activity for kids. Besides the large amount of beautiful and most unusual temples, there is a large market and perhaps the most fun playground we saw at the time.
Fo Guang Shan
Fo Guang Shan, located just outside Kaohsiung, is one of the most important Buddhist temple complexes in Taiwan and an important spiritual destination for Buddhists around the world. It is not only a temple, but also a vibrant community and a center for Buddhist education and meditation.
This impressive place, with its huge Buddha statue and serene surroundings, is a must-see for anyone visiting Taiwan. Even if you are not a follower of Buddhism, this place exudes tranquility and the serene atmosphere is felt throughout. The iconic large Buddha statue stands a whopping 30 meters tall.
After a leisurely walk through the temples and grounds, there is a small cafe where you can unwind with a nice ice cream or snack. And best of all? It’s completely free to visit Fo Guang Shan! So take your time, explore the temples and enjoy the view.
Tainan
Tainan, Taiwan’s former capital and oldest city, is definitely worth a visit with kids. There are a number of fun sights to visit here.
Shennong Street in Tainan is one of the oldest and most beautiful streets in the city. Many of the buildings have been converted into quaint boutiques, art galleries, cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal place to wander around and score unique souvenirs. Across Shennong Street, you’ll find a traditional market where you can sample local delicacies and buy handmade products. Lovely to walk around here for a while.
Tainan Park is the green lung of Tainan and ideal for a picnic, walk or just enjoying nature. There are many shaded areas, ponds with ducks and beautiful walking paths. Kids can run around here, play on one of the many playgrounds and maybe even spot some animals.
Children’s activities Central Taiwan
Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s most beautiful and popular destinations. The lake, surrounded by mountains, offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for a day out with the family. It is best to explore the area by bicycle or drive from sight to sight by car.
If you choose to rent a bike, there are several rental outlets around the lake. There are several bike paths that meander along the water, where you can enjoy the views and get nice and active. For those who prefer something quieter, there are boat tours of the lake. One of the most famous buildings around Sun Moon Lake is the Ci’en Pagoda and Lalu Island.
Family-friendly restaurant Taiwan
Taiwan is known not only for its impressive nature and rich culture, but also for its amazing cuisine. It is a mix of Western, Chinese, Japanese and indigenous influences. From street food to sophisticated meals, eating in Taiwan is an adventure in itself and one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the island.
As indicated earlier, you can get by just fine with English in the major cities. As you visit further inland and southern Taiwan, however, you will have to rely more on your great friend Google Translate. There is a true foodie scene and you will come across the most bizarre and unique restaurants throughout the country.
Alice is Coming restaurant – Taipei
Alice is Coming in Taipei is truly a gem for families with kids! The restaurant is inspired by the famous “Alice in Wonderland” theme, and you can see that throughout the decor. Think colorful, playful details and furniture that instantly transport you into a fantasy world. It really is a place where your kids can marvel, while you can quietly enjoy a delicious meal.
The menu is also very family-friendly: from cheerfully prepared plates to dishes specially adapted for little ones. For example, they have cute kids’ portions and healthy options, so you don’t have to worry about eating. And what makes it extra fun is that there are often special activities, such as craft corners or toys to play with.
Shiba Inu Themed Cafe
If you are a Shiba Inu lover (or just love dogs in general), then you absolutely must visit Do-Zai Cafe & Bar in Hualien! This cafe has a super cute theme, as everything here revolves around the adorable Shiba Inu dog. The decor is all Taiwanese style, with cute Shiba Inu characters, posters and even decorations that will immediately put a smile on your face.
But what makes the café really special is that the food and drinks are all inspired by the Shiba Inu. The dishes are not only delicious, but also adorable! Think cakes shaped like Shiba Inu heads, Shiba Inu coffees with latte art and even dog cookies for your four-legged friend if you come with your dog.
YUME cafe – Winnie Pooh cafe in Tainan
All Winnie Pooh fans beware! This is your chance to dive into the world of Winnie Pooh. This adorable restaurant is all about the beloved bear character and his friends. As soon as you step inside, you are embraced by a world full of Winnie the Pooh decorations – from the tableware to the tables to the walls, everything is decorated with images of Pooh and his friends.
It is truly a paradise for fans of the classic Disney cartoon. However, the café is a bit hidden. In fact, it is located on the second floor of a hair salon! It is a bit of a search, but once you are inside, just let the staff know that you want to go to the second floor, and they will guide you to the café.
It almost feels like a secret hideaway for Pooh fans! The dishes are cheerfully presented, with cute details that immediately remind you of the famous bear world. Think pancakes shaped like Pooh’s face, for example, or cute sweets that look like the characters from the stories. The menu also offers many family-friendly options, so it’s a great place to go with the whole family.
Night Market
You can go to a Night Market in Taiwan with kids in almost all cities. Here you can also eat delicious food with kids, and below are some typical Taiwanese dishes you can try here:
Stinky Tofu: This may sound a little strange, but Stinky Tofu is really a Taiwan specialty! It is deep-fried tofu that has a strong smell, but believe us, it tastes much better than it smells. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is usually served with a little spicy sauce and pickled vegetables.
Bubble Tea: Everyone has heard of bubble tea, but at night markets you can find it in all shapes and sizes. It is an ice-cold, sometimes hot sweet tea with large tapioca balls (the boba). You can choose from different flavors and toppings, such as milk, fruit or even pudding. We personally liked the Bubble Caramel Tea in Taipei (Ximending) the best.
Gua Bao: Gua Bao is a kind of sandwich, but Taiwan-style! The bread is soft and steamed, and the filling is usually a piece of steamed pork, pickled vegetables and some cilantro.
Crispy Chicken: This crispy chicken is one of the most popular snacks at night markets. It is super crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is a bit like a Schnitzel on a stick. Tasty, easy and definitely a must try once.
Taiwanese Sausages: Taiwanese sausages are nicely seasoned and are often served on a stick. Sometimes it is even served in a piece of steamed bread, making it a mini sandwich. Our kids absolutely loved these.
Shaved Ice: If you go to Taiwan in the summer, Shaved Ice is a must-try! It’s a huge plate of shaved ice, often topped with all sorts of sweet toppings like fruit, jelly sugars, and even a little sweet milk.
