Temples & Tea: Discovering the Heart of Taiwan
Taiwan Highlights Tour: Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan & Kaohsiung
From the neon buzz of Taipei’s Ximending district to the tranquil waters of Sun Moon Lake, and from the misty cedar forests of Alishan to the riverside creativity of Kaohsiung, this 11-day small-group journey reveals Taiwan in all its diversity.
Go beyond the guidebook with authentic cultural encounters: learn to make bubble tea and dumplings, taste oolong at a mountain tea farm, cycle scenic lakeside trails, and ride the historic Alishan Forest Railway through clouds and cypress trees. Discover Taiwan’s spiritual soul at Wenwu Temple and the vast Fo Guang Shan Monastery, while savouring its modern pulse through night markets, street food adventures, and LGBTQ-friendly nightlife — from Ximending’s bars to a group karaoke night in Kaohsiung.
Stay in hand-picked boutique 3–4 star hotels that balance comfort with local charm, plus a heritage mountain lodge in Alishan. With curated meals, inclusive experiences, and the warmth of travelling in a close-knit group of like-minded explorers, you’ll discover why Taiwan is one of Asia’s most welcoming and unforgettable destinations.
Quick Facts
Countries visited: Taiwan
Duration: 10 Nights / 11 Days
Starts in: Taipei
Ends in: Taipei
Group size: Minimum 6; Maximum 16
Accommodations: Boutique 4-star hotels + 1 night mountain lodge
Physical rating: 2/5 (light walking, some cycling, early sunrise excursion)
Theme: Culture • Nature • History • Community • Pride
Activities: Street food tours, temple visits, tea tasting, cycling, hot springs, scenic train ride, nature walks, art districts, boat cruises, LGBTQ-friendly nightlife
Dates and Prices
2026
7 June – 17 June 2026
TWIN SHARE $4,995 AUD
SINGLE $6,495 AUD
SINGLE TO SHARE $4,995
Pricing is also available in USD & EUR
Highlights:
- LGBTQ-friendly small-group travel (6–16 guests) with an inclusive, community-minded ethos
- Explore Taipei’s queer history, indie design shops, and vibrant nightlife in Ximending
- Join hands-on bubble tea and dumpling workshops celebrating Taiwan’s food culture
- Soak in Beitou Hot Springs and feast your way through Shilin Night Market
- Cycle the world-famous Sun Moon Lake trails and enjoy a private sunset boat cruise
- Taste oolong at a mountain tea farm and visit Wenwu Temple overlooking the lake
- Ride the historic Alishan Forest Railway and wander through misty cedar forests
- Cruise along Kaohsiung’s Love River and explore the creative Pier-2 Art District
- Reflect at Fo Guang Shan Monastery, one of Asia’s largest Buddhist sites
- Celebrate with a group karaoke night at a local LGBTQ-friendly venue
Tour Map
Temples & Tea: Discovering the Heart of Taiwan
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Taipei – First Taste of Taiwan
Bright lights, warm welcomes, and your first glimpse of Taiwan’s vibrant capital.
Arrive at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), where a private transfer takes you to your boutique 4-star hotel in Ximending, Taipei’s energetic hub. After settling in, meet your group for a stylish welcome dinner at a modern Taiwanese restaurant in the area.
This evening, soak up the buzz of Ximending, known for its LGBTQ-friendly spirit, street fashion, and endless energy. Wander freely, explore local cafés and shops, or simply enjoy people-watching in this colourful heart of the city.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight: Taipei (Ximending)
Day 2 Taipei – Heritage & Hot Springs
Temples, traditions, and steamy escapes in the city’s northern hills.
Start your day with a visit to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, one of Taipei’s most iconic landmarks, before sitting down for a fun and flavourful hot pot lunch. Continue to Bao’an Temple, a beautifully preserved heritage site that showcases Taiwan’s rich religious architecture and artistry.
In the afternoon, unwind at Beitou Hot Springs, where geothermal waters invite relaxation. Experience the traditional public bathhouse (optional clothing-free section) before returning to the city. This evening, discover Shilin Night Market, a lively maze of street food and local delights (at your own expense).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Taipei (Ximending)
Day 3 Taipei – Culture, Cooking & Community
Discover flavours, friendships, and the stories that shape modern Taiwan.
Join a hands-on cooking class and learn to make Taiwan’s iconic bubble tea and dumplings — a delicious insight into the country’s food culture. After lunch, visit 228 Peace Park and the Presidential Palace for a glimpse into Taiwan’s history before heading to The Red House for a guided Ximending walking tour that celebrates Taipei’s LGBTQ+ heritage.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and perhaps a nightcap with your fellow travellers back in the heart of Ximending.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Taipei (Ximending)
Day 4 Taipei to Sun Moon Lake – Temples, Traditions & Tranquil Waters
From city streets to mountain air, discover Taiwan’s spiritual and natural heart.
Depart Taipei after breakfast, stopping first at the Tu’er Rabbit God Temple, a shrine with deep roots in local folklore and queer history. Continue south toward Taichung, where you’ll enjoy lunch at an indigenous restaurant highlighting Taiwan’s First Nations flavours.
This afternoon, arrive at Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan’s most beautiful natural wonders. Cycle along the lakeside trail surrounded by emerald hills and calm waters, then take a relaxing sunset boat cruise to soak in the views.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Sun Moon Lake
Day 5 Sun Moon Lake – Tea Fields & Tranquillity
Steeped in heritage and mountain mist — a day of reflection and taste.
After breakfast, visit the graceful Wenwu Temple, perched above the lake with sweeping panoramic views. Continue to the Antique Assam Tea Farm, where you’ll learn about Taiwan’s rich tea traditions and enjoy a tasting among lush green fields.
Savour a local specialty lunch before returning to your hotel for a free afternoon to relax, explore, or simply enjoy the lakeside serenity. Dinner tonight is at your own leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Sun Moon Lake
Day 6 Sun Moon Lake to Alishan – Forests, Peaks & Cloud Seas
A journey through winding mountain roads to Taiwan’s most magical highlands.
Depart for Alishan, a region famed for its mist-shrouded forests and scenic railways. Visit the Alishan National Scenic Area and board the charming Alishan Forest Railway, once used for logging, now a nostalgic ride through towering cypress trees.
After lunch at a local restaurant, walk the serene Sisters Pond and Sacred Tree Trail, where ancient trees and fresh mountain air create an atmosphere of quiet wonder.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Alishan
Day 7 Alishan to Tainan – Sunrise Peaks & Ancient Streets
Watch dawn unfold above the clouds before tracing the roots of old Taiwan.
Rise early for an optional sunrise at Alishan Peak, a truly unforgettable sight as sunlight spills across the sea of clouds (unguided). Return for breakfast and a short rest before your late-morning transfer to Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city.
After lunch featuring local jar-roasted chicken, explore Anping Fort, a former Dutch stronghold, and stroll along Shennong Street, where traditional houses now host artisan shops and cosy cafés.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Tainan
Day 8 Tainan to Kaohsiung – Temples, Art & River Lights
From ancient heritage to creative energy on Taiwan’s southern shores.
Travel from Tainan to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s lively port city. Visit the dramatic Dragon & Tiger Pagodas and Beiji Xuantian Shang Di Pavilion overlooking Lotus Pond, then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Pier-2 Art District, where warehouses have transformed into colourful creative spaces. End your day with a scenic Love River ferry ride before checking into your hotel. Dinner tonight is at your own leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Kaohsiung
Day 9 Kaohsiung – Monasteries & Music
Peaceful moments and joyful nights in southern Taiwan’s cultural hub.
Begin the day with a visit to Fo Guang Shan Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist complexes in Asia, known for its serene atmosphere and impressive Buddha statue. Enjoy a wholesome vegetarian lunch at the temple’s canteen before returning to your hotel.
Spend the afternoon at leisure, then, in the evening, join your group for a karaoke night at a local LGBTQ-friendly venue — a fun and inclusive way to celebrate Taiwan’s warm and open spirit.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Kaohsiung
Day 10 Kaohsiung to Taipei – High-Speed Return & Farewell Feast
A journey from the south to the capital, and a celebration of new friendships.
After a relaxed morning, transfer to Kaohsiung HSR Station for your high-speed train back to Taipei. Enjoy a bento box lunch on board as the countryside rushes past.
Upon arrival, check in to your Taipei hotel and enjoy a free afternoon for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. This evening, gather for a memorable farewell dinner at a local LGBTQ+ restaurant, celebrating connection, diversity, and the adventures shared.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Taipei (Ximending)
Day 11 Departure from Taipei – Until Next Time
One last goodbye to the island of temples, tea, and treasured memories.
After breakfast, transfer to Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) for your onward flight. Take with you the warmth of new friendships, unforgettable experiences, and the spirit of Adventure Proud.
Meals included: Breakfast
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Arrival & departure transfers to/from the joining & finishing point hotel in Taipei
- English-speaking Adventure Proud Group Leader throughout the journey
- High-Speed Rail (HSR) tickets and all private transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation in boutique 4-star hotels, plus 1 night heritage mountain lodge in Alishan
- Daily breakfast, plus 3 dinners and 9 lunches as listed in the itinerary
- All guided activities, cultural workshops, and entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
- Air-conditioned private transport for all included activities and transfers
- Unique local experiences: tea tasting, lakeside cycling, dumpling & bubble tea workshop, hot spring entry, sunset boat cruise, and more
What’s Not Included
- International airfare to/from Taiwan
- Visa Costs (if applicable)
- Meals and optional activities not specifically listed in the itinerary
- Gratuities for drivers, porters, and local activity guides (suggested: USD $3–$5 per person, per day)
- Gratuity for the Group Leader (budget approx. USD $45–$60 total, at your discretion)
- Mandatory travel insurance (must include medical and evacuation coverage — see details here)
