Snow L.Looking to experience Taiwan beyond its bustling night markets and famous dumpling houses? From vibrant urban art scenes to quirky literary nooks and picture-perfect café gems, there’s plenty on offer for curious travellers seeking a fresh perspective. Whether you’re in the south or up north, immerse yourself in creativity, culture and off-beat charm on your next trip. Check out our curated list of things to do in Taiwan for all you artsy folks out there!
Also read: 7 Hidden Gems in Taipei, Taiwan for Singaporeans to Explore
Kaohsiung
1. Taking in the Gorgeous Art in Kaohsiung
Image credit: Tsaiian | Flickr
The artsy fartsy environment of Pier 2 Art District is almost comparable to that of Huashan 1914 in Taipei. The entire street is filled with graffiti, murals and statement-inducing sculptures.
Taipei
2. Café Hopping in Taipei
Image credit: Far East Film Festival | Official Website
If you watched the movie, Café Waiting Love, written by Giddens Ko (the same writer of You Are the Apple of My Eye), then this scene is not foreign to you. The Lady Boss specialty coffee is one-of-a-kind, leaving an alluring taste in your taste buds to make you crave for more. Be prepared for a long queue. Meanwhile, don’t forget to take some artistic shots to leave your footprints. Café Waiting Love is located at Wen Shan District, No. 1, Level 1, Yishou Street, Lane 44.
3. Boarding Jimmy’s Moon Bus
Image credit: Taipei Travel | Official Website
Located near the Taipei 101 building, this stationary mini bus is inspired by When the Moon Forgot, a book by Taiwanese author-illustrator Jimmy. Inside the cosy bus, the typical sight of passengers dozing off and holding on to the handrails are replaced by illustrations from the book. The soothing instrumental music creates a dreamy and magical atmosphere.
Yilan
4. Strolling in Jimmy’s Park
Image credit: Walden Hotels | Official Website
If you can’t get enough of Jimmy’s artworks, visit a park in the Yilan country entirely based on his other books. Stroll along the park, and admire the meaningful mandarin quotes scattered around.
Tainan
5. Browsing pages in Tainan
Image credit: Tainan Top Hotels | Official Website
Spend an afternoon at the Caoji secondhand bookstore in Tainan. The layout of the three-storey building is unique and captivating: it totally redefined the space! Explore the endless maze of books ranging from history, classical Chinese philosophy, geography, cooking, fengshui and the list goes on. If this is still not enough to satisfy the book worm in you, check out the traditional stationery shops in the vicinity.
Wrap Up Your Creative Taiwan Tour
From coastal Kaohsiung’s industrial-chic art precincts to Taipei’s hidden café retreats and Yilan’s story-book parks, Taiwan’s lesser-known cultural spots promise surprise and delight at every turn. Grab your walking shoes, pack a notebook and set out to discover islands of inspiration off the beaten path: Your most memorable Taiwan moments may lie just around the corner!
Also read: 7 Scenic Destinations in Taiwan for Nature Lovers
