You're Going to Love Tainan
Think New York is the only city that doesn't sleep? Tainan will make you seriously reconsider. With its thriving night markets, incredible street food, one-off finds in boutique stores, and historical monuments, a Tainan adventure has a little bit of everything to experience.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Tainan
1. Celebrate Every Day at the Night Market
From the Flower Night Market to the Da Dong Night Market, this is one of the locals' (and travelers') favorite ways to pass the evening. Sample from fresh food stalls, bargain with street vendors, and enjoy the game booths.
2. Get Back to Nature at Taijiang National Park
The Sicao Green Tunnel in Taijiang National Park allows campers and park-goers to take boat rides to observe aquatic and bird life in the mangrove.
3. Bask in the Sacred Temples
Shrines and temples provide a true sanctuary for those looking to step away from the city. The gardens are serene and well planned, and the gates retain their historic majesty.
4. Visit the Anping Fort
Known also as "Taiwan Castle", this historical fort is also, coincidentally, the best place to take in ocean views and sunsets.
5. Check out Chihkan Tower
Built in 1653 by the Dutch and then developed further by the Japanese, this beautiful tower is best visited during twilight hours, when it's well lit and its interesting architecture is highlighted.
When to Visit Tainan
When visiting Tainan, note that November and December, as well as the months of March and April, are the best times to visit. Temperatures at this time are a pleasant 73. Winter is mild and dry.
How to Get to Tainan
Plane
For international flights, travelers will land at the Kaohsiung City Airport or the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport in Taoyuan. Use the Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) to get into Tainan for NT$1350.
Train
Tainan HSR Station is a major stop on the Taipei - Kaohsiung City line. Fares cost NT$1500. You can also use the regular railway train from the Shulin station. First-class fares from Taipei cost NT$758.
Car
Driving from Kaohsiung to Tainan, use Freeway 1 (also called Sun Yat-sen Freeway). It's a straight drive along this route north and the journey takes around an hour.
Bus
From other cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung, use premium bus services from Aloha, Ho-hsin, and Ubus. Buses arrive at the Beimen Station.
Airlines serving Tainan
Where to stay in popular areas of Tainan
Most booked hotels in Tainan
How to Get Around Tainan
Public Transportation
Bus routes start at the main Tainan train station. There are also sightseeing buses on the weekends that are marked 88 and 89. A one-way ticket costs NT$18 and a monthly pass is NT$700.
Taxi
Taxis in Tainan start at a flat rate of NT$85 and it's NT$12.4 per mile thereafter.
Car
Book car rentals from major companies like Avis, starting from NT$2687.69 for an economy, four-seater. You can also grab a scooter rental for a self-drive option for around NT$600 per day.
The Cost of Living in Tainan
Shopping Streets
For those who love malls and department stores, make sure to check out the variety at Shin Kong Mitsukoshi. South of the main Tainan Railway Station are several smaller boutique stores.
Groceries and Other
A quart of milk costs NT$85 and a dozen eggs will run you around NT$60.
Where to Eat in Tainan
What can you expect in the "City of Snacks"? Check out eats like Dan Zai Mian and or coffin bread at Chihkan Peddler's Noodles, a family-owned, home-cooked restaurant. Dishes cost between NT$151-800.