In Taiwan, a mountainous land of stark and seemingly picture perfect landscapes, waterfalls are among one of the most beautiful and diverse natural features. However, as waterfalls are often more remote than public transport can reach, it can be difficult to know just where is worth your while. Check out our list of the ten most spectacular waterfalls in Taiwan to save you time and confusion. Rest assured, every one of these unique waterfalls are well worth a visit, and are guaranteed to be a memorable experience during your travels in Taiwan.
1. Golden Waterfall: Rich Experience
Jiufen’s Golden Waterfall looks like a cascade of gold because of the nearby mining and abundance of heavy metal elements deposited in the riverbed. The luminous green grass at the head of the water flow adds to this natural beauty. Needless to say, this is a popular destination for newly-weds, who flock to this location for some serious photography. READ MORE
2. Shifen Waterfall: Most Impressive of All
Shifen Waterfall is the most renowned cascading waterfall in Taiwan. Although not nearly the tallest the island has to offer, it’s is certainly the widest at an impressive 40 meters. Because of its horseshoe shape and powerful flow, it is nicknamed the Little Niagara of Taiwan. Recessed within a beautiful forested mountainside setting, this waterfall often delights visitors with a bright rainbow on sunny days. READ MORE
3. Wulai Waterfall: Tallest of All
At a height of 80 meters and width of 10 meters, Wulai Waterfall is the tallest waterfall of all and seriously impressive. As a wonderful place for seasonal cherry blossom viewing and with diverse aboriginal foods and handicrafts nearby, Wulai Waterfall is a tourist hot-spot for a reason. READ MORE
4. Neidong National Forest Recreation Area: Rich Ecology
Neidong National Forest Recreation Area is the perfect place for a “forest bath”. Situated just a few minutes’ drive from Wulai Old Street, this is such an ecologically rich area that butterflies, beetles, lichen and diverse plants are commonplace here. Take a deep breath here – this three tiered waterfall is known for having the most abundant anions in Taiwan! READ MORE
5. Five-Peak Flag Waterfall: Bang for Buck
Come to Five-Peak Flag Waterfall and experience five waterfalls in one go! With an amazing spectacle of two waterfalls overlapping vertically, this is a different experience from other waterfalls in Taiwan. At a massive 42 meters high, the view is gorgeous and the water is powerful. Enjoy the kiosks, observation stages and resting places along the way for a great day. READ MORE
6. Zhushan Sky Ladder: From the Heights
Zhushan Sky Ladder is a 136 meter long suspension bridge created to assist visits to Taiji Canyon. You can get really close to the waterfall here, but even from a distance, the moisture from the spray cleans your pores and eases your tension. There are many waterfalls to appreciate here, all of which are of natural and impressive beauty. READ MORE
7. Datun Waterfall: Picnic Place
Datun Waterfall refers to a series of small waterfalls in Yangmingshan National Park. More than anything, it is a brilliant place for a picnic with the backdrop of the gentle sound of the waterfalls. To digest your meal, it is also a nice idea to take a walk among the waterfalls on a 30 minute roundtrip stroll. READ MORE
8. Guanyin Waterfall: Quiet and Clean
Before the 921 Earthquake, Guanyin Waterfall was one of the most popular tourist attractions in Puli. Today, the area is quieter, giving it a mysterious, and possibly even more beautiful atmosphere. Of the two waterfalls here, the inner one at 60 meters high, is the most impressive. Wander among the butterflies and breathe in the clean, fresh air at Guanyin Waterfall. READ MORE
9. Shuangliu Forest Recreation Area: Restorative Day
Most miss the natural beauty of Shuangliu Forest Recreation Area out of haste, but would hate themselves if they knew it. Although this is not the most impressive waterfall in the whole of Taiwan, it makes this list because is relatively unfrequented, making it a wonderful place to relax and play in the water. Bring a picnic, and your swimsuit, and enjoy a day trip in this restorative recreation area. READ MORE
10. Lingjiao Waterfall: Mysterious Beauty
Lingjiao Waterfall is little-known and under-frequented, giving it a sense of mystery, especially on weekdays. Get off the train at Lingjiao Train Station instead of continuing on to Jiufen for an adventure into a simple wonderland. READ MORE
Taiwan may be a small country but it has numerous natural scenic spots that a local might not even know it exists. For years, roundTAIWANround has not only successfully captured the beauty of Taiwan, we have also discovered various secret spots. It’s not one that any random travel guidebook or website would circulate. Visit our website and expose yourself to these hidden gems.
