I thought about Tainan for a long time before I first visited in. In fact, Tainan was the first city in Taiwan I considered setting foot in—I briefly thought that I would move there.
The year was 2010, you see, and I was teaching English in Shanghai, China. On a much-needed trip to Southeast Asia during Chinese New Year, I met two other Americans, who were teaching in—you guessed it—Tainan. Together, we postulated that I could soon upgrade from Shanghai to their city.
Shortly after that, of course, I got my big blogging break, and was able to quit teaching once and for all. Indeed, while it took me almost another decade before I finally saw Taiwan’s original capital with my own eyes, the richness of this Tainan travel guide reflects the 15+ years it’s been in progress.
Where to Stay in Tainan
As is the case in most cities in Taiwan, there’s not a lot of rhyme or reason to where Tainan hotels are located. I personally prefer properties closer to Tainan Main Station, simply for the convenience factor, and even if hotels like the Grand Banyan aren’t my usual style. Conversely, I’m willing to walk for the homeyness of places to say such as Laile, which in spite of being a hostel has many private rooms.
A word to the wise: Don’t stay too far out unless you have car, as public transportation in Tainan needs something to desired. In particular, I avoid resisting the trap of staying at properties like Wu You Guesthouse near HSR Tainan Station, which is significantly outside the city center. Well, unless you want to have to ride a local train every day in order to go about your sightseeing.
My Favorite Things to Do in Tainan
Say a prayer at Tainan Confucius Temple
By comparison to some other temples in Taiwan, Tainan Confucius Temple is not an architectural powerhouse. Still, it exudes a certain energy, given that its construction dates back to the mid-17th century. I love strolling through here first thing in the morning for maximum effect, though your mileage may vary.
Go back in time at Chihkan Tower
Speaking of old structures, Chihkan Tower dates back to a similar time period as the Confucius Temple, making it a perfect example of what to do in Tainan for history-minded travels. The design here is much more distinctive, however; the structure is significantly more impressive in general, particularly if you go up in its viewing deck.
BONUS: Another old structure in Tainan (albeit not as old as these two) is the Hayashi Department Store. It’s an objectively beautiful structure, but specifically hearkens back to Taiwan’s Japanese colonial period.
Get some fresh air at Sicao Green Tunnel
Whether you go by Uber, private car or one of the admittedly limited buses that run outside the city, Sicao Green Tunnel just to the northeast of Tainan’s city center is a fantastic escape. There’s plenty of other things on offer in this area too, including ancient Banyan trees, and the Dutch-colonial Anping Tower.
Admire the architecture of the Chimei Museum
It might seem strange that someplace as…well, European as Chimei Art Museum would appear on a Tainan itinerary. Still, whether because of the distinctive Greco-Roman revivalist exterior, or the enviable collection of art inside, it’s nonetheless an awesome spot to beat Tainan’s often oppressive heat.
Eat your way through Garden Night Market
Tainan has many night markets, and a great number of street food areas beyond proper night markets. Still, Garden Night Market is the single most eclectic and impressive such facility, whether you go there to try iconic Tainanese dishes like migao or eat something less particular.
How Long Should I Spend in Tainan?
Tainan might be Taiwan’s former capital, but in many ways, it’s much smaller than its current one. Well, at least in terms of core attractions—you can come for the day from Kaohsiung or Taichung and see basically all the things to do in Tainan’s city center. On the other hand, Tainan is quite geographically spread out beyond this—you need a whole additional day to visit the Green Tunnel and Anping, especially if you’re depending on public transportation.
Another factor when deciding how many days in Tainan you should spend? How long you plan to stay in Taiwan more broadly, and whether or not this is your first trip. For example, if it’s your maiden voyage to Taiwan and you only have a week, Tainan might not fit into your itinerary at all. Conversely, if you’re here for two weeks—or four—and are exploring Taiwan beyond the basics, you can afford to sleep a few nights in Tainan.
Other FAQ About Things to Do in Tainan
Is Tainan worth visiting?
Tainan is absolutely worth visiting. Taiwan’s former capital, Tainan is replete with historical attractions, namely the 17th-century Chihkan Tower. It’s also home to natural beauty, such as in the form of the aptly-named Sicao Green Tunnel, as well as the nearby Anping Fort.
What is Tainan famous for?
Tainan is famous both for being Taiwan’s former capital, as well as for various foods, including migao (sticky rice with pork) and fried shrimp rolls. Well, at least among Taiwanese. Sadly, Tainan hasn’t gained much fame among foreign travelers, though I hope my post does its part to help change that.
Where should I go in Tainan?
If you’re coming to Tainan for the day from Kaohsiung or Taichung, focus on city center attractions like Chihkan Tower and Tainan Confucius Temple (and, if you’ll be here in the evening, Garden Night Market). If you have some time and flexibility, by contrast, Anping Fort could be a good option.
The Bottom Line
This Tainan travel guide has been almost two decades in the making. As I explained in the introduction to this piece, I almost moved to Tainan—and then I didn’t; and then it took me almost 10 more years to visit for the first time. Not that any of this is important to you: You probably just want to scale Chihkan Tower, or to eat your way through Garden Night Market, or maybe even just to see the city on a day trip from Kaohsiung. Whatever your motivation, I hope I’ve helped you make more sense of Tainan. Need personalized help putting your Taiwan trip together? Hire me to plan it!
