Especially popular as a way of welcoming the New Year, sunrise viewing in Taiwan is a beloved pastime. It's no wonder too as there are plenty of incredible scenic spots, perfect for witnessing the first rays of the day. Whether you're looking for places to watch the first sunrise of the new year or any day, here are the top seven spots for viewing the sunrise in Taiwan.
Fulong Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in the north of Taiwan, Fulong Beach is popular for its long and wide stretch of golden sandy beachfront. Every summer, music fans flock to the beach for the annual Hohaiyan Rock Festival that takes place at Fulong. However for the most beautiful view here, consider staying there for the sunrise. From it's position on the east coast of Taiwan, the views of the sunset are absolutely gorgeous. The local tourism bureau also usually holds events for watching the sunrise including during the first sunrise of the year at Fulong Beach during New Year's Eve.
In addition to Fulong Beach, the scenery at Sancho Point, the coastal bicycle path of Zhuangwei Dunes Visitor Center and various places around Yilan are all beautiful spots to catch a sunrise.
Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
One of the most famous sunrise spots in Taiwan, this iconic view is famous for watching the golden sun make its way above the dramatic peaks of the national scenic area. To view the sunrise here you'll want to stay overnight in Alishan, unless you're up for the long drive from the west coast. The Alishan Forest Railway runs trains before dawn specifically for sunrise viewing, take the train to Zhushan Station and walk to the Xiaoliyuanshan Lookout Platform, it's usually less crowded than the platform right next to the station and is more picturesque.
Erliao Sunrise Pavilion
Located in the beautiful Siraya National Scenic Area, Erliao is easy to get to from the southern city of Tainan. Under an hour's drive from most areas in Tainan, the viewing platform is located right next to the road, meaning there's no need for climbing or hiking. Despite its fairly easy to reach location however, the view is absolutely stunning, especially during sunrise when surrounding mountains and hills peak out of the morning fog.
Hualien Qixingtan Scenic Area
An exceptional example of Hualien's beautiful sea-meets-mountains landscape that Taiwan's east coast is famous for, Qingxitan or Chisingtan is a beautiful spot for sunrise viewing. As the sun rises up above the Pacific Ocean, the rays of light gleam off the seemingly endless sea.
Sanxiantai, Taitung
The scenery of Sanxiantai is formed by the erosion of offshore islands over thousands of years and is shrouded in legends and tales from long ago. As the sun rises slowly over the cross-sea walkway that connects the islands to the mainalnd, shimmering off the waters of the sea, it's no wonder Sanxiantai is one of the most beautiful sunrise spots on the island.
Sun Moon Lake Jinlong Mountain
A short distance from the popular vacation spot of Sun Moon Lake, Jinlong Mountain or Golden Dragon Mountain is only 820 meters high, but is one of the top three sunrise viewing spots in Taiwan because of the stunning sea of clouds. From October to March every year, it's the most common time to see the sea of clouds at Jinlong Mountain, which looks especially stunning with the glare of the sun rising above.
Green Island Zhaori Hot Springs
Off the mainland of Taiwan, Green Island is home to Zhaori Hot Spring, once known as Asahi Hot Spring during the Japanese era when it was discovered. This rare underwater hot spring on the coast of the island is perfect for watching the sunrise. Enjoy in the healing properties of the outside heated pools here as you watch the beautiful golden rays reflect off the Pacific Ocean, for the ultimate relaxation.