Things To Do
in Wandan

Wandan is a picturesque township located in southern Taiwan, known for its stunning natural landscapes and pleasant climate. The area is surrounded by lush mountains and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and bird watching. Visitors can also explore local cultural attractions, including temples, traditional markets, and historic sites.

Wandan is a peaceful retreat for those seeking a tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

  • "Ni hao" - Hello
  • "Xie xie" - Thank you
  • "Zai jian" - Goodbye
  • "Qing" - Please
  • "Duibuqi" - Sorry

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.5 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Hiking Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a hike at Wandan Park, enjoying the beautiful scenery and fresh air. Bring along some snacks to enjoy at one of the scenic lookout points.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market for lunch and try some traditional Taiwanese street food. Afterward, explore the shops and souvenir stands near the park.

evening
:

Wind down with a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant serving fresh seafood. Take a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the sunset views.

day 2
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Join a cooking class in Wandan to learn how to make traditional Taiwanese dumplings. You'll get hands-on experience and a delicious meal to enjoy afterward.

afternoon
:

Visit a local tea house and sip on some freshly brewed Taiwanese tea. Participate in a tea ceremony and learn about the culture behind this beloved beverage.

evening
:

Dine at a highly rated local restaurant featuring Taiwanese hot pot. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and share dishes with friends or family.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
  • Access to a variety of local cuisine and delicious street food.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
  • Occasional natural disasters, such as typhoons.
  • Public transportation options may be less extensive than in major urban areas.
  • Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Less access to high-end shopping and entertainment facilities.

Best Activities in Wandan

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Wanshou Mountain

Enjoy a scenic hike to the peak of Wanshou Mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the nearby reservoir.

Exploring Wandan Sunflower Garden

Visit the beautiful sunflower garden in Wandan, which offers picturesque views and a wonderful opportunity for outdoor photography.

Cycling along Wandan Bike Trail

Explore the natural beauty of Wandan and its surroundings by cycling along the Wandan Bike Trail, which offers a picturesque route for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tours

Uncover the best of Wandan with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Wandan

Visit one of these nice places.

Sun Moon Lake

Offers stunning views of the surrounding mountainous landscape and crystal-clear lake, perfect for beautiful photos.

Aowanda National Forest Recreation Area

Scenic spot with dense forests, rivers, and diverse wildlife, providing great photo opportunities of nature.

Cingjing Farm

Known for its picturesque green meadows and grazing sheep, ideal for capturing the natural beauty of the area.

Food in Wandan

The cuisine in Wandan, Taiwan is a delightful fusion of traditional Taiwanese flavors and influences from nearby countries. The area is renowned for its fresh seafood, mouthwatering street food, and a wide variety of local dishes that showcase the vibrant culinary heritage of Taiwan.

Wandan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Oyster Omelette

A popular street food made with fresh local oysters, eggs, and savory sweet potato starch, fried to perfection and served with a tangy chili sauce. Head to Wandan Night Market for an authentic taste.

Must-Try!

Grilled Squid

Tender and succulent squid grilled to perfection and seasoned with aromatic spices. You can find this delectable dish at the seaside stalls along Wandan Beach.

Bawan

A traditional Taiwanese snack consisting of a large, smooth, chewy dumpling skin filled with a flavorful mixture of minced pork, bamboo shoots, and shiitake mushrooms. Look for it at local eateries and street food vendors.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Wandan better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wandan Night Market

This bustling night market offers a wide array of delectable street food, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and countless snacks and desserts. It's a great place to sample the local flavors and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the region.

Wandan Fish Market

A seafood lover's paradise, this market features an impressive selection of freshly caught fish, shellfish, and other marine delicacies. Visitors can enjoy savoring the catch of the day at the market's seafood stalls.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as subtropical, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Temperatures typically range from decently warm to hot, with the summer months often reaching highs around 30°C (86°F) or more. Winters are milder, with average temperatures generally ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is abundant, particularly during the summer months, when the area experiences a monsoon season, leading to frequent downpours and occasional typhoons. These intense weather patterns can contribute to high humidity levels year-round. The spring and autumn months usually see more moderate temperatures and less rainfall, making for a more pleasant climate during those times. Overall, the climate supports a rich biodiversity and lush vegetation, common in subtropical regions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Wandan, Taiwan, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and by deferring to their opinions and decisions.

Customs and Traditions

It is important to familiarize oneself with local customs and traditions in Wandan, Taiwan, and to adhere to them in order to show respect for the local culture.

Etiquette in Dining

When dining in Wandan, Taiwan, it is customary to follow dining etiquette such as waiting for the elders to start eating, and not leaving any leftover food on the plate as it may be seen as disrespectful.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Wandan with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in the region is generally considered to be quite high. Crime rates are low, with violent crime being rare, and the community tends to be very welcoming and friendly. Public spaces are usually well-maintained, and transport systems are safe to use. Natural disasters, such as typhoons and earthquakes, can pose risks in Taiwan, but local authorities are well-prepared to respond to such events, and there are safety protocols in place. Residents and visitors are advised to stay informed about weather conditions, especially during typhoon season. For personal safety, standard precautions apply, such as being aware of one’s surroundings and securing personal belongings. Overall, many people find the area to be a safe place to live and visit.

Tipping in Wandan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Taiwan, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected or required in most situations. However, in some upscale hotels and restaurants, a 10% service charge may be added to the bill.

Payment

In Taiwan, cash is still widely used, especially for small transactions. However, credit cards are accepted in many places, especially in urban areas. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Android Pay are also becoming increasingly popular.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Wandan.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit Wandan, Taiwan is in spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in bloom. Expect beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer (June to August) is also a good time to visit Wandan, Taiwan with warm weather and opportunities for beach activities and water sports.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) brings pleasant temperatures and the stunning colors of fall foliage, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.

Winter

Winter (December to February) is the least popular time to visit due to cooler temperatures, but it can still be enjoyable for those who don't mind the cold and want to experience the local winter festivals.

Wandan at Night

Nightlife in Wandan tends to be more laid-back and community-focused compared to the bustling scenes in larger Taiwanese cities. Small local bars and night markets are popular spots where residents and visitors alike gather to unwind. The night markets are particularly vibrant, offering a variety of traditional street foods, snacks, and beverages. These markets not only provide culinary delights but also serve as social hubs where people can shop for local crafts, clothing, and other goods. Karaoke bars, known locally as KTVs, are also a staple of the nightlife scene, where groups of friends can rent private rooms and sing their favorite songs late into the night. For those interested in a more relaxing evening, teahouses and coffee shops remain open into the night, providing cozy environments for conversation and relaxation. While Wandan may not have the extensive nightlife options found in major cities, its charm lies in its community-oriented atmosphere and the opportunity to experience authentic local culture.

Hiking in Wandan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wandan Mountain Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and lush vegetation, suitable for all hiking levels.

Baihe Mountain

A popular hiking destination with well-marked paths and stunning panoramic views. Ideal for a full day hike.

Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area

Features coastal trails and unique coastal ecosystem. It is great for both hiking and wildlife watching.

Guanshan Mountain Trail

This trail provides a moderate challenge and rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding mountains.

Taimali Riverside Trails

A peaceful hike alongside the river, with the opportunity to explore natural beauty and local flora.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Wandan through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Wandan by plane.

Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

The largest international airport in Taiwan, located in Taoyuan City, serving as the main gateway for international flights.

Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)

The second largest airport in Taiwan, located in Kaohsiung City, it handles both domestic and international flights.

Taichung International Airport (RMQ)

An international airport located in Taichung, it serves both domestic and limited international flights.

Hualien Airport (HUN)

A regional airport that offers some international flights and is situated in Hualien, known for its proximity to natural attractions.

Taitung Airport (TTT)

Small airport located in Taitung City that offers limited international flights in addition to domestic services.

Walkability

This coastal town offers a mix of urban and natural environments, contributing to its overall walkability. The layout features a compact and interconnected street network, making it relatively easy for pedestrians to navigate. Sidewalks are available in many areas, and local amenities such as shops, markets, and eateries are often within walking distance for residents. In addition to urban areas, Wandan is close to natural attractions, allowing for pleasant walking routes that incorporate scenic landscapes and coastal views. The presence of parks and recreational areas also enhances the walkability, providing places for leisure walks and outdoor activities. Overall, the combination of accessible amenities, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and natural beauty contributes to a generally walkable community, encouraging locals to explore on foot and enjoy their surroundings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Wandan, consisting of various subgroups including Hoklo and Hakka.

Indigenous Peoples

Smaller demographic groups including the Puyuma and Paiwan tribes, who have their own distinct cultures and languages.

Foreign Residents

Includes expatriates and migrants from various countries living in Wandan, contributing to its multicultural landscape.

The Soul of Wandan

Discover the essence of Wandan through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Wandan, with many local teams and schools participating in leagues and tournaments.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played in Wandan, enjoyed by both youths and adults, with local clubs competing regularly.

Baseball

Baseball has a rich tradition in Taiwan, including Wandan, where local teams train and compete in various amateur leagues.

Volleyball

Volleyball is a popular sport in Wandan, with community tournaments and school competitions fostering local talent.

Swimming

Swimming is a favored recreational and competitive sport in Wandan, with many facilities available for training.

Traffic

In the coastal town, traffic tends to be relatively light compared to larger cities. The area's road network primarily consists of local streets and highways connecting to nearby regions. Most residents rely on scooters and motorcycles, which are a common sight, navigating through the streets with ease. Cars are also prevalent, but due to the compact nature of the town, many residents opt for two-wheeled vehicles for convenience and efficiency. Public transportation options, including buses, provide connectivity to surrounding areas, although they may not be as frequent as in urban centers. During peak hours, particularly in the morning and late afternoon, there can be congestion near schools and popular local markets. The town’s layout and slower pace of life contribute to a more relaxed driving experience, though some areas may require caution due to pedestrians and cyclists sharing the road. Overall, traffic conditions are manageable, making it easier for residents and visitors to navigate the town comfortably.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Wandan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Taiwanese cuisine predominantly features meat and seafood, many establishments in Wandan offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetable stir-fries, tofu-based meals, and fresh fruit smoothies. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when ordering.

Gluten-Free Choices

Visitors with gluten intolerances can opt for rice-based dishes, such as rice noodle soups, as well as naturally gluten-free local specialties like grilled meats and fresh seafood. However, it's advisable to inquire about preparation methods and cross-contamination potential at eateries.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Wandan with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this region is characterized by a well-structured public health system that integrates both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medical practices. The National Health Insurance (NHI) program provides coverage for a wide range of medical services, ensuring that residents have access to necessary treatments and preventative care. Local clinics and hospitals are equipped with modern facilities and staffed by qualified healthcare professionals. There is a strong emphasis on community health services, with initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles and preventive care. Traditional Chinese medicine also plays a significant role, with many residents opting for herbal treatments and acupuncture in addition to conventional therapies. Emergency services are responsive, and there are protocols in place to handle various health crises. Overall, the healthcare landscape benefits from a combination of public health initiatives, private healthcare options, and a deep-rooted cultural appreciation for holistic and traditional health practices.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2024 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide