Things To Do
in Tainan
Tainan, located in southern Taiwan, is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, being the oldest city and the ancient capital of Taiwan. It is a treasure trove of traditional temples, historic sites, and colonial architecture, reflecting a blend of Chinese, Dutch, and Japanese influences.
Moreover, Tainan is also famous for its vibrant street food scene, offering a wide array of local Taiwanese delicacies that captivate both locals and tourists alike.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Qing" - Please
- "Duibuqi" - Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the iconic Chihkan Tower, a historical site that showcases Tainan's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a traditional Taiwanese breakfast nearby at a local eatery.
Head over to the Tainan Flower Night Market for some shopping and street food. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as you savor local delicacies.
End your day at Anping Fort, where you can admire the sunset views. Take a leisurely stroll along the nearby Anping Old Street for some souvenir shopping.
Explore the National Museum of Taiwan Literature, which highlights the literary history and culture of Taiwan. Spend some time relaxing in the surrounding park.
Visit the Fort Provintia, an early 17th-century Dutch fortification, and learn about its historical significance. Take photos of the unique architecture.
Enjoy dinner at one of Tainan's famous beef soup restaurants. Afterward, take a walk around the lively streets to experience Tainan's nightlife.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with many historical sites and temples.
- Delicious street food and famous local cuisine.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Vibrant night markets and shopping areas.
- Ideal climate for outdoor activities.
- Less crowded than major cities like Taipei.
- Can be hot and humid during the summer months.
- Public transportation may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Some areas have a higher level of air pollution.
- Limited English signage and communication in rural areas.
- Typhoon season can disrupt travel plans.
Best Activities in Tainan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore an abandoned historic warehouse that is now overtaken by banyan trees, offering a unique blend of history and nature.
Visit this ancient fort to take in scenic views of the surrounding area and learn about its historical significance.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic in this spacious urban park, complete with lush greenery, ponds, and pavilions.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tainan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tainan
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic building covered in banyan trees, offering a unique and picturesque setting for photos.
An ancient landmark with traditional Chinese architecture and city views from the top.
A bustling night market with colorful displays and food stalls, great for capturing the local atmosphere.
A historical site with scenic views of the sea and old fortress walls that make for stunning photography.
Food in Tainan
Tainan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Tainan specialty comprising thick, handmade noodles served in a savory broth, typically garnished with minced pork and scallions. Visit Du Xiao Yue, a long-standing eatery, for an authentic taste of this iconic dish.
Must-Try!
This comforting breakfast staple features tender milkfish in a fragrant rice porridge, often accompanied by flavorful condiments such as pickled radish and crispy shallots. Sample the best milkfish congee at A-Shin Milkfish Congee, a local favorite.
Embrace the culinary artistry of Tainan with this unique snack, consisting of a thick slab of bread hollowed out and filled with a delectable creamy concoction such as seafood or chicken. Experience the exquisite flavors at Ah-Hou Coffin Toast as they prepare this delicacy to perfection.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tainan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An epicurean paradise offering a plethora of delectable street food options, from grilled squid and oyster omelets to savory rice cakes and bubble tea. Wander through the bustling alleys and savor the vibrant flavors of Tainan at this lively night market.
This bustling market is a haven for food enthusiasts, where you can indulge in an assortment of local delicacies such as beef soup, tempura, and Taiwanese sausages. Be sure to explore Wusheng Night Market to relish the authentic tastes of Tainan.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tainan, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and gestures such as bowing or offering a small gift as a sign of respect.
When visiting temples and shrines, it is essential to observe proper etiquette such as removing shoes before entering, dressing modestly, and refraining from loud behavior or photography in sensitive areas.
When dining in Tainan, it is customary to wait for the host or the eldest person to start eating before you begin. Additionally, it is polite to use both hands when giving or receiving something, including money.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tainan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tainan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tainan, Taiwan, tipping is not a common practice. Most restaurants and service providers do not expect tips, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip or rounding up the bill as a gesture of appreciation is sometimes welcomed.
In Tainan, Taiwan, cash is widely used for daily transactions, especially in traditional markets and smaller establishments. However, credit cards are also accepted in many restaurants, hotels, and larger stores. It's advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards for convenience. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay are increasingly accessible in Tainan as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tainan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and the famous Tainan International Cherry Blossom Festival.
Hot and humid weather, with occasional typhoons. Great for enjoying local night markets and cooling off at the beach.
Mild weather with occasional rain. Ideal for exploring Tainan's historic sites and enjoying seasonal harvest festivals.
Cool and comfortable weather. Perfect for trying out Tainan's delicious hot pot dishes and visiting traditional temples.
Tainan at Night
Hiking in Tainan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot near Tainan, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels.
Known for its beautiful natural scenery and moderate hiking trails, Siyen Mountain is great for both novice and experienced hikers.
A scenic area with lush bamboo forests, this mountain provides a peaceful hiking experience with trails that lead to stunning viewpoints.
Located to the southeast of Tainan, Shuangxiu Mountain features various trails that allow hikers to explore diverse ecosystems and fauna.
A lesser-known hiking destination with well-marked trails, Kaiming Mountain is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tainan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tainan by plane.
The largest international airport in Taiwan, located approximately 295 kilometers north of Tainan. It serves as the main gateway for international flights to and from Taiwan.
Located about 50 kilometers southwest of Tainan, it is the second largest international airport in Taiwan, serving a significant number of international and domestic flights.
About 145 kilometers north of Tainan, it serves several domestic flights and some international routes, making it an important airport in central Taiwan.
Located approximately 65 kilometers north of Tainan, this airport mainly serves domestic flights but also has a few international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Tainan, comprising various subgroups including Holo and Hakka.
Includes various tribes such as the Siraya, who are the original inhabitants of Tainan.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries residing in Tainan.
Includes individuals from countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines who have settled in Tainan.
A small percentage of other ethnic groups forming a minority within the city.
The Soul of Tainan
Discover the essence of Tainan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is highly popular in Tainan, home to several professional teams and a rich history in the sport.
Soccer enjoys a growing following in Tainan, with numerous local clubs and youth programs promoting the sport.
Basketball is widely played in Tainan, with many public courts and a strong community involvement in leagues.
Traditional folk sports, including dragon boat racing and jianshu (swordplay), are celebrated in Tainan's local festivals.
Badminton is a popular recreational sport in Tainan, with many facilities dedicated to both casual and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tainan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Tainan's culinary landscape is predominantly focused on seafood and meats, several establishments cater to vegetarians and vegans. Look out for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants and modern cafes that offer plant-based dishes and creative vegan interpretations of classic Taiwanese fare.
For gluten-free dining, seek out restaurants with a focus on farm-to-table and organic cuisine, as they are more likely to accommodate dietary restrictions. Additionally, international dining venues and health-conscious eateries often provide gluten-free options on their menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tainan with these cultural adventures.