Taiwan by train: Dragons, temples and waves

Packed your fave fits in your suitcase, your travel guide in your backpack and a thirst for adventure in your heart? While you're flying over Asia, your journey rushes through your head like a reel. 'Taiwan, here I come – ready for memories that will last!'

The moment has finally come; your plane is about to land! The sight of the sea of houses beneath you fills you with excitement beyond belief, and almost as soon as you collect your bags, you're off on your own to the railway station, where you catch a train to Taichung.

If you've never heard of this city before your trip, you're in for a treat! Taichung is filled with Insta spots, and Rainbow Village – a small village painted in vibrant colours by a former veteran entirely on his own – is definitely one of them. So, you head over, pick a nice corner and snap some pics in front of the colourful houses. All the brilliant hues put you in a fantastic mood, and your colourful adventure continues! You stroll through a sea of tulips, past a picturesque windmill and a bright pink piano set right in the middle of the flowery meadow. At the Zhongshe Flower Market, you feel like you've entered a world straight out of a Dutch fairytale. The sun is shining from the sky, the flowers are glowing in the most beautiful colours, your smile keeps getting bigger and bigger and you’re ready for even more!

You wake up, and the sun is shining! You already ticked off the first sights on your list yesterday, but don't worry; the fairytale continues. Xinshe Castle immediately reminds you of a Disney film and the castles in Europe. The picturesque bridges, green meadows and babbling fountains make it all perfect. Not really a fan of Disney? Taichung's got you covered! Whether it's Super Mario, the Minions or the Simpsons, you can marvel at many of your favourite animated characters portrayed life-size on Painted Animation Lane. Hungry from all the sightseeing, you set off in search of a tasty bite to eat. Hongrui Zhen Bakery is said to sell the best sandwiches in the city, so go see for yourself. And if you'd rather try something typically Taiwanese, you're sure to find something that slaps at the Fangja Night Market, the largest night market in the country.

Today's destination has you up and out of bed early. Where are you off to? Tainan! So, you hop on the train and off you go.

Welcome to Taiwan’s former capital – a city bursting with contrasts! Your self-led tour of Tainan starts in the West Central District with over 1,600 temples. And the Confucius Temple, with its glowing red facade, is a true highlight. Next stop: Shennong Street! This historic alley decorated with tons of colourful lanterns is the perfect spot to find all kinds of souvenirs and treats – and, of course, another temple. When it's time to switch off for a bit, you head to Tainan Park and stroll between the lotus-filled lake and the pavilion and feel like you're in a whole other world. And when you get hungry, you're in just the right place. With everything from beef soup to eel noodles and coffin bread, Tainan is a true foodie heaven!