• Taiwan has a unique geography that can’t be found in any other country in the world

• Jade Mountain is Taiwan’s tallest mountain, at a height of 3,952 meters

• Qingshui Cliffs is one of the best places to watch the sunrise in Taiwan

When the Portuguese first encountered Taiwan in the 16th century, their first words are “Iiha Formosa!” which means the island of beauty. From the tall mountains to the dense forests, Taiwan has a unique geography that can’t be found in any other country in the world. Here are some awesome places in Taiwan that tourists should visit.

1. Blue tears in Matsu island

Do you remember the magnificent scene of the blue whale in the movie “Life of Pi”? There is a place that looks just like it on Matsu island. You can only spot them near the coasts and beaches of Matsu. The tears are formed by algae; when they are disturbed by the ocean, they release fluorescence, causing the effect of the blue tears. The blue tears appear every year during late spring to summer, so nature lovers and photographers, make sure you don’t miss this opportunity!

2. Jade Mountain

Photo by Kailing3

Jade Mountain is Taiwan’s tallest mountain, at a height of 3952m. It is the most famous therefore most popular mountain in Taiwan. Every hiker and adventurer wants to climb Jade Mountain so they can get a wonderful view from the highest place in Taiwan. It usually takes 10-15 hours of hiking to reach the peak, so some travelers will be able to finish the hike in one day if they are fast enough. You won’t regret climbing Jade Mountain, because when you reach to the very top peak and look down at the world, everything that you’ve worked so hard for is worth it.

3. Sun Moon Lake

Photo by Justin Hwang

Sun Moon Lake is the largest lake in Taiwan and is surrounded by mountains. The Thao people named it Sun Moon Lake because the east side of the lake looks like the sun, whereas the west side looks like a crescent moon. Dubbed one of the eight wonders of Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is also the most famous hydroelectric power source in the country. During the spring, there are beautiful sakura flowers growing all around Sun Moon Lake, giving it some of the most beautiful scenery on the island. While admiring the beauty of Sun Moon Lake, you can also learn about the 14 aboriginal tribes of Taiwan, making a trip to Sun Moon lake not just beautiful, but also historical.

4. Qingshui Cliffs

Photo by Fred Hsu

Located near the Suhua Highway, the Qingshui Cliffs is one of the most magnificent places in Taiwan. Facing the Pacific Ocean and towering more than 1000m over the sea, these near vertical cliffs are formed out of marble, gneiss, and green schist, making them very hard and stable. With it’s unique location, Qingshui Cliffs is one of the best places to watch the sunrise in Taiwan, and you may also spot people boating across the ocean as the day begins. When you pass by Hualien, make sure to check out this amazing natural spectacle.

5. Ali Mountain

Photo by Michael Cannings

Famous for its sea of clouds, the vast forests of kamiki, and right next to the vast Jianan Plains, Ali Mountain has a very deep history in Taiwan, especially since the Japanese colonial period. There are many Japanese colonial houses and old logging railways. The Alishan Highway is the main road that crosses the Ali Mountain scenic area, and it is the most classic route to take at Ali Mountain. Along the way, visitors can see splendid views of tea farms, old Qing Dynasty routes, and the beautiful sunset. If you wish to see some of the most legendary scenery in Taiwan, you must come and visit Ali Mountain.

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Even though Taiwan is a small island country, it has so many splendid wonders that can’t be seen in any other place. Not many people know how amazing Taiwan is, which makes it one of the most underrated destinations in Asia. Although these places are located in different spots in Taiwan, they all have one thing in common; they all have an awesome view and all of the places above have good public transport, making it convenient for you to go from place to place. So what are you waiting for? Come and explore this stunning island of beauty now!