Traveling through Taiwan’s southern regions without the hassle of planning each stop sounds pretty attractive, doesn’t it? This 3-day private tour from Taipei offers exactly that—a guided, all-inclusive journey to some of the country’s most captivating destinations. From the vibrant arts scene of Kaohsiung to the natural wonder of Kenting National Park and the historic charm of Tainan, it packs a lot into a short timeframe.
Our review breaks down what makes this trip stand out, while also highlighting some considerations you might want to keep in mind. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just eager to see Taiwan’s diverse culture, this tour aims to meet many interests—all with the convenience of included transportation, accommodations, and expert guides.
What really shines about this experience is the knowledgeable guides, the seamless logistics, and the chance to see top sights without the stress of arranging your own transport. However, a possible downside is that the tour doesn’t include lunch or dinner, so appetite planning is up to you. Overall, it’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of southern Taiwan with a professional touch.
Key Points
- All-inclusive convenience, with guided tours, transport, and accommodations handled
- Expert guides provide insightful explanations, especially on cultural and historical sites
- Seamless logistics from Taipei using high-speed rail, ferry rides, and private transfers
- Rich variety of experiences—from temples and historic forts to scenic parks and islands
- Limited downtime: packed schedule suitable for those eager to explore intensely
- Value: around $1,095 per person for three days, including hotel stays and major entrance fees
A Perfect Blend of Culture, Nature, and Convenience
This tour packs three days into a well-structured itinerary that balances guided exploration with some free time to soak in your surroundings. It’s tailored for travelers who want to cover major highlights without the stress of planning each detail. The fact that it’s a private experience means your group can enjoy personalized interactions, making it perfect for couples, families, or small groups of friends.
Starting in Taipei, you’ll hop on the Taiwan High-Speed Rail to reach Kaohsiung, cutting down travel time dramatically. From there, the journey unfolds with visits to iconic sights, local markets, and scenic spots. What’s especially appealing is the inclusion of local experiences like a pedicab ride on Cijin Island and a stroll through Pier-2 Art Center—these give a flavor of authentic Taiwanese life and culture.
Looking for more options in Taichung? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Day 1: Kaohsiung’s Urban Charm and Coastal Flavors
The first day kicks off with a comfortable train ride from Taipei, which offers a quick, scenic journey. Once in Kaohsiung, the tour guides you through some of the city’s most engaging spots. Foremost is Fo Guang Shan, a sprawling monastery with the impressive gold Buddha Amitabha statue visible from miles away. Visitors often mention how the guide’s explanations make the visit more meaningful—one reviewer appreciated the “best, clearest explanation of Buddhism vs Taoism” they’d ever heard.
Next, you’ll wander through Pier-2 Art Center—an inspiring transformation of an abandoned warehouse district into a lively arts and culture hub. This is a must-see for art lovers or anyone interested in Taiwan’s contemporary creative scene. The fact that it’s free to explore makes it even more appealing.
Then, a ferry ride takes you to Cijin Island, where you’ll experience a nostalgic pedicab tour along Cijin Old Street, visiting the lighthouse, fortress, and the famous Cijin Tianhou Temple. The island is renowned for seafood, and reviewers often rave about the street food here—deep-fried snacks and fresh seafood offerings are highlights.
Later, the evening winds down at Liuhe Tourist Night Market, where food is the star. From seafood congee to stinky tofu, the market is a sensory overload but a delicious one. Staying at a 4-star downtown hotel gives you a comfortable base to rest after your busy day.
Day 2: Natural Wonders of Kenting
A hearty breakfast fuels your departure toward Kenting National Park, Taiwan’s first designated national park. This area is celebrated for its coastal landscapes and marine biodiversity, perfect for fans of sea and sand.
Highlights include Maobitou, whose unique rock formation resembles a crouching cat—perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots. The Eluanbi Lighthouse, with origins dating to the Qing Dynasty, offers scenic views and a glance into Taiwan’s maritime history.
Longpan Park is a highlight, with its coral limestone tableland facing the Pacific Ocean. The erosion patterns here are striking and give a raw, natural vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. The tour culminates with a visit to Hengchun Old Town, a well-preserved city surrounded by ancient walls and a great place to soak in local history and architecture.
This day involves a good deal of walking and sightseeing, so comfortable shoes are essential. The guides are noted to be very knowledgeable about the geology and history, adding depth to each stop. An overnight stay in Kaohsiung keeps things simple, allowing you to unwind before the final day.
Day 3: Tainan’s Historic Roots
Your last day takes you to Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city and a treasure trove of historic sites. The visit to Fort Provintia (also known as Chihkan Tower) is a highlight, with its Dutch colonial roots and Qing Dynasty renovations. Reviewers commend the guide for sharing fascinating stories about the fort’s history and architecture.
Next is Fort Zeelandia (Anping Fort), built by the Dutch East India Company, which played a significant role in Taiwan’s colonial past. Nearby, the Anping Tree House showcases a stunning natural display: banyan trees entwined with an old warehouse, creating an eerie yet beautiful scene. This spot seems to enchant visitors with its blend of nature and decay.
After a self-funded lunch, you’ll return to Taipei via the high-speed train, completing the trip with a quick, comfortable ride home. The entire experience is designed to maximize sightseeing while minimizing stress, making it accessible even for those with limited time or travel experience.
How Does it All Add Up?
The $1,095 price tag covers quite a bit: professional guides, all transportation (including high-speed train tickets), hotel stays, entrance fees, and ferry rides. It’s a good deal considering the convenience and depth of experience offered. The tours are thoughtfully curated to include both cultural sites and natural scenery, ensuring a well-rounded look at southern Taiwan.
Travelers from reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledgeability—with one even describing their explanations of Buddhism and Taoism as “the best I’ve ever heard.” The small group setting (private for your party) allows for a more intimate, flexible experience, which many find valuable.
However, it’s worth noting that meals outside of breakfast are not included, so planning ahead for lunch and dinner is recommended. Also, the packed schedule means you’ll need to keep comfortable shoes handy and be prepared for some walking.
This experience is ideal for travelers wanting an all-in-one, hassle-free way to see Southern Taiwan’s highlights. It suits those who appreciate guided insights, want to avoid the stress of planning logistics, and enjoy a mix of cultural and scenic attractions. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors or anyone with limited time but a strong desire to cover a lot of ground.
It’s less suited for travelers seeking a slow-paced, leisure-focused trip or those looking for in-depth exploration of any one site. If you’re comfortable with a somewhat busy schedule and want the assurance of a well-organized, professional tour, this is a strong contender.
This private 3-day tour offers an impressive snapshot of Southern Taiwan’s diverse attractions, blending historical sites, natural scenery, and lively markets—all with the convenience of guided tours and included transportation. Its value lies in the expert guides, seamless logistics, and the opportunity to see multiple highlights without the stress of independent planning.
For those eager to explore Taiwan’s southern gems efficiently, this tour delivers a comprehensive experience that balances cultural insight with scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, knowledge, and a curated itinerary over free-form exploration.
If your goal is to get a well-rounded, hassle-free introduction to this vibrant region, this tour ticks all the boxes.
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all transportation including high-speed train rides, ferry trips, and private transfers are covered, making travel between sites effortless.
Are the hotels comfortable?
Yes, the accommodation provided is a 4-star hotel in downtown Kaohsiung, offering a good standard of comfort and convenience.
What meals are included?
Breakfast is included for two mornings; lunch and dinner are not included, so you’ll want to plan for those yourself.
How long are the guided tours at each site?
The guide typically spends around 30 minutes at Pier-2 Art Center, an hour at Fo Guang Shan, and about 1.5 hours on Cijin Island, with additional time allocated for other stops.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the itinerary involves some walking and sightseeing suitable for families, but check with the provider if you have specific needs.
What makes this tour different from self-guided trips?
Guided commentary enriches your understanding with historical and cultural insights, and logistics are handled seamlessly, saving you planning time.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there is potential for some flexibility—discuss your preferences with the provider beforehand.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, cash for extra expenses, and possibly a hat or sunscreen for outdoor stops.
How far in advance should I book?
On average, it’s booked about 216 days ahead, so early planning ensures availability.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind should your plans change.
Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely—especially for travelers who want a mix of cultural, natural, and urban experiences in Southern Taiwan with minimal fuss.