Solo Travel: Enjoy Taichung and Kaohsiung with Taiwan High-Speed Rail Unlimited Pass!
Purpose:
- Shop in the stylish interior of Miyahara Ophthalmology.
- Appreciate art at the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum.
- Experience the trendy atmosphere at Kaohsiung's art district.
Itinerary:
Day 1:
Arrive in Kaohsiung via flight. Direct flights from Japan are available, taking about 4 hours. From the airport, take a train to the city center, reaching the beautiful Formosa Boulevard Station with its stunning stained glass ceiling in about 10 minutes. Be sure to admire the stained glass artwork.
Taiwan has coin lockers at major stations, making it convenient to store luggage. Large lockers that fit suitcases for up to 3 hours cost around 300 yen.
After storing your luggage, take a bus to the art district. This area, a renovated warehouse district, features galleries and cafes, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Located by the water, it offers a refreshing and open atmosphere.
In the evening, visit the illuminated Sanfeng Temple. Although the rainy weather prevented the lanterns from being lit, the temple still exuded grandeur.
Travel to Taichung via Taiwan High-Speed Rail. Online reservations are recommended for convenience.
Stay at the Blue Sky Hotel Taichung, designed by the same designer as Miyahara Ophthalmology. The hotel is stylish, with a standout feature being the suitcase wall at the front desk.
Day 2:
Taichung is home to the original Chun Shui Tang, famous for its bubble milk tea. Enjoy drinks and breakfast options like toast. Nearby, there are markets offering a variety of Taiwanese delicacies.
Take the high-speed rail to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum, located in Chiayi. From the station, buses are available, including free ones at certain times. Explore Asian art exhibitions, including seasonal displays of ukiyo-e.
Return to Taichung via high-speed rail and dine at the second-floor restaurant of Miyahara Ophthalmology. The food and desserts were delightful. Stay overnight at the Blue Sky Hotel Taichung.
Day 3:
Wake up leisurely and purchase sandwiches from Hong Rui Zhen, located next to the Blue Sky Hotel. This retro-style shop offers a variety of sandwiches and has branches in Japan. Since dining inside is not allowed, enjoy the sandwiches back at the hotel with coffee brewed using the in-room coffee maker.
The Blue Sky Hotel is highly recommended for its stylish design and affordable rates, around 6,000 yen per night for solo travelers (except on Saturdays).
For the return journey, take the high-speed rail to Taoyuan Station, then transfer to a train to Taoyuan Airport. Consider buying a station bento box for the trip. The journey from Taichung to Taoyuan Airport, including the transfer, takes about 90 minutes.
From Taoyuan Airport, flights to Japan are frequent, taking just over 3 hours.
Taiwan Transportation:
The Taiwan High-Speed Rail Unlimited 3-Day Pass is ideal for visiting multiple cities. It allows reserved seating and costs around 10,000 yen, making it affordable. Be sure to bring your passport for verification. Since the pass is valid for three consecutive days, plan your route carefully.
For buses, the EasyCard is recommended and can be recharged at convenience stores.
Recommended Accommodation:
The Blue Sky Hotel Taichung does not have an in-house restaurant, but it is close to Miyahara Ophthalmology, delicious sandwich shops, and numerous other restaurants. The hotel offers complimentary snacks in a fisherman's bag, drinks in the fridge, and additional snacks and drinks at the front desk. The hotel logo is featured on slippers and bottled water. Solo stays cost around 6,000 yen, making it a great choice. Hotel prices in Taichung are generally lower than in Taipei.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
- Miyahara Ophthalmology: A Harry Potter-like atmosphere with beautifully wrapped sweets.
- Blue Sky Hotel Taichung: Stylishly renovated interiors, including the suitcase wall at the front desk.
Important Notes:
- Be cautious of typhoons.
- In summer, take measures to prevent heatstroke.