Taiwan by Rail
From the lively streets of Taipei to the calm waters of Sun Moon Lake and the misty peaks of Alishan, this is a journey through Taiwan at its most scenic and soulful. Along the way, you’ll travel like a local, from the buzz of a commuter train to the sleek speed of the high-speed rail, and step back in time aboard two of the island’s most charming historic lines. Blending iconic sights with unforgettable rail experiences, Taiwan by Rail is a fresh and memorable way to explore this fascinating island.
- 06 May 2026 – 14 May 2026
from $5,880 pp twin share * - 14 Oct 2026 – 22 Oct 2026
from $6,180 pp twin share * - 04 Nov 2026 – 12 Nov 2026
from $6,180 pp twin share * - 10 Mar 2027 – 18 Mar 2027
from $6,880 pp twin share * - 24 Mar 2027 – 01 Apr 2027
from $6,880 pp twin share * - 07 Apr 2027 – 15 Apr 2027
from $6,880 pp twin share * - 05 May 2027 – 13 May 2027
from $6,880 pp twin share * - 08 Sep 2027 – 16 Sep 2027
from $6,880 pp twin share * - 13 Oct 2027 – 21 Oct 2027
from $6,880 pp twin share * - 03 Nov 2027 – 11 Nov 2027
from $6,880 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Days 1-2 – Fly overnight to Taipei:
Fly overnight to Taipei, Taiwan’s buzzing capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture. This evening meet with your National Escort and fellow travellers to enjoy dinner at a nearby, local restaurant. - Day 3 – Explore Taipei:
Start the day at the National Palace Museum, home to one of the world’s finest collections of Chinese imperial art. Continue to the historic Longshan Temple, an 18th-century place of worship filled with incense and intricate carvings. Stop by the impressive Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall before ascending Taipei 101’s 89th floor for sweeping views of the city skyline. This evening, head to a buzzing night market to sample some of Taipei’s most famous street food. - Day 4 – Ride the Pingxi Line:
Follow the scenic Pingxi Line through lush mountains and former mining towns on a journey once used to transport coal. Stop along the way to explore charming spots like Pingxi and Shifen Old Streets, and admire the impressive Shifen Waterfall. Try your hand at releasing a traditional sky lantern before continuing to Jiufen, a hillside town of narrow alleys, teahouses, and stunning coastal views. Return to Taipei in the evening. - Day 5 – Travel to Sun Moon Lake:
This morning, journey to the picturesque Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan’s most scenic natural treasures. Stop at a tea plantation nestled in the surrounding hills for a tasting session, before visiting the striking Wenwu Temple overlooking the lake. Later, board a leisurely cruise to soak up panoramic views of jade-green waters, forested slopes, and distant mountain peaks. - Day 6 – Travel to Alishan:
Head to Bantaoyao Craft Park, a revitalised pottery factory where you’ll try your hand at mosaic-making and design your own decorative tile. Later, travel into the misty hills of Alishan to visit Yuyupas Cultural Park. Here, you’ll learn about the traditions of the indigenous Tsou tribe and sample rich, aromatic coffee grown and handpicked in the surrounding mountain farms. - Day 7 – Board the Forest Train:
Hop on the Alishan Forest Train early this morning for the ride up to Zhushan Sunrise Platform, where, if the weather’s on your side, you’ll catch a stunning sunrise over the mountains. Afterward, spend time exploring Alishan’s peaceful forest trails, with stops at scenic spots like the Sister Ponds and the Three Generation Tree. - Day 8 – Return to Taipei:
Start the day in the quaint mountain village of Fenqihu, where you can stroll its narrow lanes lined with wooden shopfronts and try the town’s signature bento box lunch. Later, travel to Chiayi and hop aboard the high-speed train back to Taipei — a smooth, fast journey that reaches up to 300km per hour. On arrival, return to your hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner. - Days 9-10 – Fly Taipei to Australia:
Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.
Highlights
- Travel like a local on commuter, high-speed, and historic rail lines.
- Discover vibrant Taipei and its renowned street food scene.
- Cruise scenic Sun Moon Lake and try your hand at traditional mosaics.
From the lively streets of Taipei to the calm waters of Sun Moon Lake and the misty peaks of Alishan, this is a journey through Taiwan at its most scenic and soulful. Along the way, you’ll travel like a local, from the buzz of a commuter train to the sleek speed of the high-speed rail, and step back in time aboard two of the island’s most charming historic lines. Blending iconic sights with unforgettable rail experiences, Taiwan by Rail is a fresh and memorable way to explore this fascinating island.
Inclusions
- Discover vibrant Taipei.
- Explore along the Pingxi Line.
- Experience Taipei’s street food.
- Cruise scenic Sun Moon Lake.
- Try your hand at mosaics.
- Ride a high-speed train.
FAQs
- Caesar Park Banqiao
- Einhan Taihe Hotel
- Alishan Gou Hotel
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 10 days and 7 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 06 May 2026 and 11 Nov 2027, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
What style of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.
Fine Print
Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.