17 Chill Spots to Discover in Taiwan

Taiwan might be famous for its bustling night markets and vibrant cities, but this island paradise also serves up some seriously peaceful spots that’ll make you forget all about the urban hustle. Whether you’re craving mountain serenity, beachside calm, or spiritual tranquility, Taiwan delivers in spades.

From hidden hot springs tucked away in volcanic mountains to ancient temples where time seems to stand still, the island offers countless opportunities to slow down and breathe. Here is a list of 17 chill spots that showcase Taiwan’s quieter, more contemplative side.

Sun Moon Lake

Located in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is renowned for hiking, boating, romantic walks, and countryside temples, making it the perfect escape from city stress. The lake gets its poetic name from its unique shape — one side resembles the sun while the other looks like a crescent moon. You can rent a bike and cruise along the shoreline on what’s considered one of the world’s most scenic cycling paths. The gentle lapping of water against the shore and the misty mountain backdrop create an atmosphere that’s pure Zen.

Beitou Hot Springs

Just a short MRT ride from central Taipei, Beitou offers the ultimate relaxation experience without venturing far from the city. Whether seeking relaxation at budget-friendly public baths or indulging in luxury spa treatments, Beitou’s hot springs cater to all. The area has been Taiwan’s premier hot spring destination since Japanese colonial times, and soaking in these mineral-rich waters while surrounded by lush greenery feels like hitting the reset button on life. The sulfur-scented air might take some getting used to, but trust us — it’s part of the authentic experience.

Alishan

This mountain paradise becomes magical at sunrise, but even during regular hours, Alishan delivers serious chill vibes. Ancient cypress trees tower overhead like natural skyscrapers, some over 2,000 years old, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere that demands quiet reverence. The cool mountain air and misty forests make it feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Take the historic narrow-gauge railway up the mountain for an extra dose of old-world charm that’ll transport you to simpler times.

Green Island

Green Island, located 33 kilometers off the coast of Taitung, has a distinct tropical/holiday feel, and is one of the best places in Taiwan to go snorkelling and scuba diving. But the real gem here is Zhaori Hot Spring, one of only three saltwater hot springs in the world. Picture this: soaking in naturally heated seawater pools while waves crash nearby and stars twinkle overhead. It’s the kind of experience that makes you question why you ever lived anywhere else. The island’s small size means you can explore everything at a leisurely pace without feeling rushed.

Penghu Islands

Locals love the southwest Penghu archipelago as a holiday destination for its white sand beaches, illustrious basalt columns, and pristine coral reefs. These windswept islands feel like Taiwan’s answer to the Greek Isles, complete with traditional fishing villages and crystal-clear waters. The pace of life here moves at the speed of gentle ocean breezes, and the stunning basalt rock formations create natural sculptures that artists could only dream of making. Island hopping between the different atolls adds adventure to your chill-out session.

Shizhuo Tea Village

Nestled in the foothills between Chiayi and Alishan, Shizhuo is a quiet mountain village where Taiwan’s most famous Alishan High Mountain Tea grows. Shizhuo (石桌) in Chiayi county is one of my favorite places in all of Taiwan. This small mountain village on the route between Chiayi city and Alishan is where Alishan High Mountain Tea is grown – Taiwan’s most famous tea. Five incredible hiking trails weave through bamboo forests and tea plantations, each with names that sound like poetry — Mist Trail, Sunset Trail, and Cloud Trail. The views looking down on those emerald tea terraces from mountain paths create scenes so perfect they look like someone painted them just for you.

Cingjing Farm

High up in Taiwan’s central mountains, Cingjing Farm feels like a slice of Switzerland dropped into Asia. Rolling green hills dotted with sheep create pastoral scenes that Instagram dreams are made of. The cool mountain climate provides relief from Taiwan’s heat and humidity, while the endless views stretch to distant peaks. It’s the perfect spot to practice the art of doing absolutely nothing while feeling completely content about it.

Yangmingshan National Park

This volcanic wonderland north of Taipei offers everything from bubbling sulfur springs to peaceful bamboo forests. Yangmingshan (Mount Yang-Ming) is arguably one of the most scenic areas in Taipei, and to be able to soak in a natural, sulphury hot spring near the source was truly quite remarkable. The park transforms dramatically with the seasons — cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and mystical fog in winter. Hot spring valleys create natural spas where you can soak your feet while surrounded by otherworldly volcanic landscapes.

Orchid Island

Lanyu (Orchid Island) is another remarkable offshore island in Taiwan. This one is best known as the home of the Tao people, Taiwan’s most isolated and traditional Indigenous tribe. The island’s rugged coastline and traditional culture create an atmosphere that feels untouched by modern rush. Traditional dugout canoes dot black sand beaches, while the ocean stretches endlessly toward the horizon. It’s like visiting a different world where time moves according to tides rather than clocks.

Da’an Forest Park

Nestled in the heart of Taipei’s bustling Da’an District, Da’an Forest Park offers a serene oasis of tranquility. Spanning 26 hectares, this urban green space serves as a ‘lung’ for the city. Sometimes the best chill spots are hiding in plain sight, and this massive park proves that point perfectly. Ponds reflect surrounding trees while families of ducks paddle lazily around islands of lotus flowers. It’s proof that you don’t need to travel far to find peace — sometimes it’s right under your nose in the middle of the city.

Jiaoxi Hot Springs

Located in Yilan County, Jiaoxi offers a more intimate hot spring experience than its famous cousin Beitou. The town’s compact size means everything is walkable, from traditional bathhouses to modern spa resorts. It’s famous for its hot springs, the most popular being Jiaoxi Hot Springs, where mineral-rich waters bubble up from deep underground. After a long soak, wandering through the quiet streets lined with local eateries completes the perfect low-key evening.

Lion’s Head Mountain

Shitoushan or ‘Lion’s Head Mountain’ is an off-the-beaten-track destination on the border between Hsinchu and Miaoli in Central Taiwan. This small mountain is dotted with Buddhist and Taoist temples, some of which are built into caves. What makes this place extra special is the opportunity to sleep overnight in Quanhua Temple, creating an authentic monastery experience. Imagine waking up to temple bells echoing through misty mountains while monks begin their morning prayers — it doesn’t get much more zen than that.

Shifen Waterfall

Taiwan’s widest waterfall creates a natural amphitheater where mist and rainbows dance in the sunlight. Falling in a long unbroken curtain, these majestic falls are a sight to behold. The waterfall opens into a dark green pool at the bottom, which remains covered in mist throughout the year. The sound of cascading water drowns out all other noise, creating a natural white noise machine that instantly calms frazzled nerves. Walking across the suspension bridge gives you front-row seats to nature’s daily light show.

Tainan Temples

Taiwan’s ancient capital houses countless temples where incense smoke curls lazily through ornate courtyards. Initially built in 1665, The Confucian Temple in Tainan City was created in order to educate intellectuals and provide a place for lectures to take place. These sacred spaces offer pockets of tranquility where you can sit quietly and watch devotees light incense or practice tai chi in temple courtyards. The architecture tells stories spanning centuries, while the spiritual atmosphere encourages quiet reflection.

Kenting Beaches

At Taiwan’s southern tip, Kenting’s beaches offer year-round tropical vibes that make every day feel like vacation. Baisha Beach is a favorite among travelers looking to relax by the water, with its powdery white sands and clear blue waters. Perfect for families, this beach features shallow waters ideal for kids. The laid-back surf town atmosphere encourages flip-flop wearing and sunset watching as official daily activities. Palm trees provide natural shade for afternoon naps, while gentle waves create the perfect soundtrack for doing absolutely nothing productive.

Taipingshan

Taipingshan, a magical destination known for its mist-covered forests and tranquil atmosphere, makes it feel like something out of a fairytale. This high-altitude forest recreation area offers hiking trails that disappear into clouds, creating an ethereal experience that photographers and daydreamers alike adore. The historic narrow-gauge railway adds vintage charm to your mountain adventure. After exploring misty trails, soaking in natural hot springs completes the perfect day of mountain therapy.

Penghu Traditional Villages

Beyond the main tourist areas, Penghu’s traditional fishing villages showcase island life at its most authentic pace. Due to a lack of building materials in Penghu, which is dry and desert-like in places, locals incorporated materials from the sea such as corallite, into their constructions, and you can spot seashells in the walls and fences on many homes. These communities move according to fishing seasons and ocean tides rather than business schedules. Wandering through narrow alleys lined with coral-stone walls while elderly residents play chess in doorways offers glimpses into Taiwan’s quieter rhythms.

The Peaceful Side Lives On

Taiwan’s chill spots prove that this island offers way more than just busy cities and crowded attractions. From ancient hot springs that have been soothing visitors for centuries to remote islands where traditional cultures still thrive, these peaceful destinations connect Taiwan’s past with its present. Today’s travelers are rediscovering what locals have always known — that sometimes the best adventures happen when you slow down enough to actually see where you’re going. Whether you choose mountain mists or ocean breezes, Taiwan’s tranquil side is waiting to help you remember what relaxation actually feels like.