TAIPEI: Taiwan is stepping up efforts to attract more international visitors by introducing new routes, nature trails and island experiences to encourage travel beyond its capital.
Deputy director-general of the Taiwan Tourism Administration, Huang Shih-Fang, said tourist arrivals reached 4.2 million in the first half of this year, up 10% from the same period in 2024, with Japan, Hong Kong, Macau and South Korea among the key markets.
To boost visibility, Taiwan has been active at major trade shows, including Singapore’s NATAS Holidays 2025, PATA Travel Mart in Bangkok and the upcoming Tourism Expo Japan.
In Pingtung, eight themed travel routes were launched to showcase the county’s culture and natural attractions, while national parks are working with the Tourism Administration to promote sustainable travel through public transport and hiking trails.
Highlighting its appeal, the New York Times recently listed Alishan among its “52 Places to Go” in 2025, spotlighting the 113-year-old Alishan Forest Railway in Chiayi. The Matsu islands, famed for their seasonal “blue tears” bioluminescence, are also being promoted as part of Taiwan’s wider push to spread tourism across the island.
