If you’re looking to escape the neon hum of the city for something a bit more atmospheric, the Dakengli (大坑里) coastline in Toucheng, Yilan offers a perfect blend of brutalist charm and serene ocean views. At the heart of this coastal stretch stands the Octagonal Observatory Tower (八角瞭望台), a structure that has transitioned from a functional maritime lookout to one of the most Instagrammable "hidden gems" on the coast.

Located in Toucheng, Yilan, this architectural marvel is more than just a place to store artifacts; it’s a tribute to the land itself. Whether you’re an architecture geek, a history buff, or just someone looking for that perfect Instagram shot, here is why Lanyang Museum belongs on your Yilan itinerary.

Toucheng was once the economic heartbeat of Yilan. Its proximity to Wushi Harbor made it a massive distribution center for goods. However, a series of floods in the 1920s and the development of the railway eventually shifted the trade elsewhere, leaving Heping Street frozen in a beautiful state of decay and quiet preservation.

We leisurely spent the day in Beitou, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Shilin Night Market, which are all on the metro red line, on our fourth day in Taiwan. In the afternoon after our visit to Beitou, we moved to the magnificent Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (國立中正紀念堂) and the grand Liberty Square Arch (自由廣場牌樓). Every inch of the memorial was designed with intention and symbolism. 

Beitou is famous for its natural hot springs and rich history, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and culture. It was developed as a hot spring resort during the Japanese era. Beitou of today is characterized by its high quality spas and onsen hotels. 

Looking for an unforgettable day escape from Taipei? Taichung, with its vibrant mix of culture, history, and stunning natural beauty, is the perfect destination! Thanks to Taiwan's High-Speed Rail (THSR), a jam-packed day trip to Taichung is not only possible but incredibly rewarding.

921 Earthquake Museum of Taiwan (921地震教育園區) stands not just as a memorial to the devastating 921 Earthquake, but as a frozen moment in time. Built directly on the site of the former Guangfu Junior High School, the museum preserves the exact spot where the Chelungpu Fault ripped through a running track and collapsed classrooms like a deck of cards. The museum is such a gem! 

The popular trio of Yehliu, Shifen, and Jiufen offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural history outside of Taipei. If you want to see the unique geological formations of Yehliu Geopark, the captivating sky lantern tradition of Shifen Old Street, and the misty, lantern-lit alleys of Jiufen Old Street all in a single day, the most convenient way is to join a day tour like I did. 

Taipei is famous for its night market scene and no trip to Taipei is complete without visiting Ximending, often called the "Harajuku of Taipei." Ximending is a sprawling pedestrian labyrinth where high-tech 3D billboards tower over street performers, historical theaters, and the city’s most iconic rainbow-painted crosswalks. Raohe Street Night Market (饒河街觀光夜市), on the other hand, is a sensory pilgrimage for the hungry.