Taiwan is one of the world’s most densely populated countries, yet almost a fifth of the island has been set aside for the purpose of conservation. In addition to nine national parks and one national nature park, the authorities manage a network of nature reserves, forest reserves, major wildlife habitats, and wildlife refuges.  Because Taiwan…

Pingtung is the county at Taiwan’s southern tip. It contains almost everything that makes Taiwan an excellent destination for travelers. Although Pingtung accounts for only about 3% of Taiwan’s population and 7% of its land area, it offers striking mountain scenery, delightfully bucolic villages, hot springs, the island’s most popular beach resort, and its oldest…

Overshadowed for most of its history by Taipei and Kaohsiung, Taichung’s recent growth spurt has caused it to overtake both Taiwan’s capital and the southern harbor city in terms of population. People are moving to this municipality of 2.9 million people in pursuit of business and employment opportunities and to enjoy a sophisticated urban lifestyle…

Long recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, Taiwan is a remarkable ecotourism destination that straddles the Tropic of Cancer. Between June and September, the country’s lowland landscapes swelter. In winter, by contrast, its rugged uplands receive dustings of snow. Between these two extremes, there are a dozen different environments, and each has distinct fauna and flora. …