Taiwan Cycling Route 1 is one of Asia’s best-known long-distance cycling routes. The 960-kilometre loop circles the island and packs an impressive amount of riding into one journey. Over the course of a single journey, riders pass through energetic cities, quiet rural landscapes, dramatic coastlines and mountain scenery, all while experiencing the culture of daily life in Taiwan.
For many cyclists, the appeal of Route 1 lies in its variety. One day might involve weaving through historic streets and stopping at vibrant night markets; the next could mean rolling through rice fields, following the coastline or climbing into more remote landscapes. Along the way there are temples, beaches, hot springs, mountain passes and food stops that make the route feel as much about discovery as distance.
Route 1 has earned a reputation as one of the world’s great cycle touring routes and attracts riders from around the globe. It offers enough challenge to appeal to experienced cyclists while remaining accessible to those looking for a longer adventure at a more relaxed pace.
I first visited Taiwan in summer 2017, spending a week exploring Taipei and hiking in Yangmingshan National Park. Although I wasn’t there on a cycling trip, it gave me the chance to experience Taiwan’s landscapes, culture and welcoming atmosphere firsthand.
Since then, I’ve followed the country’s growing reputation as a cycling destination with interest. In this guide, I’ve combined that perspective with extensive research to help you plan your own journey on Cycling Route 1.
With that in mind, here’s a deep dive into what Route 1 has to offer and the best things to know before you undertake a cycling tour here.
All metrics in this article are approximate.
As ever, check current travel information and advice. For visitors from the UK, the UK government travel information pages are here.
You should also read and follow Taiwan’s highway code (more information below).
Table of contents
- Part 1: Overview of Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1
- Part 2: Highlights of Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1
- Part 3: Suggested Route 1 Itinerary
- Part 4: Route conditions and riding direction
- Part 5: Accommodation, bike hire and practical planning
- Part 6: Tourist highlights, food and culture along Route 1
- Part 7: Best time to ride, safety and travel tips
Part 1: What is Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1?
Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1 is a signed route that circles the entire island for approximately 960 kilometres. Officially launched in December 2015, the route was developed to encourage recreational cycling and make it easier for riders to explore Taiwan by bike. Since then, it has become the country’s flagship cycling route and a popular introduction to cycling in Asia.
The route combines dedicated cycle paths, quieter roads and sections of busier roads that include cycling infrastructure. Rather than following a single road continuously, Route 1 links together a network of roads and paths designed to guide cyclists around the island as efficiently and safely as possible.
Most riders begin and finish at Taipei Songshan Station, a practical starting point thanks to its excellent transport links within Taipei and connections across Taiwan’s wider rail network. However, there is no fixed place to begin; riders can join the route at any point and tailor it according to the time available and the areas they most want to explore.
One of the route’s biggest strengths is the contrast between different parts of the island. Taiwan’s western side contains most of the country’s larger cities and urban centres, while the eastern side is generally quieter and more rural. The east coast in particular has become a favourite among cyclists for its dramatic scenery and lower traffic levels.
There is also flexibility built into the network itself. In addition to the main loop, Taiwan has developed numerous official branch routes which connect riders to additional destinations and attractions across the island. These allow cyclists to add extra days and explore further if time permits.
All distances and route information are approximate, and it is always worth checking current travel information and local guidance before planning a trip.
Part 2: What are the highlights of Taiwan Cycling Route 1?
One of the reasons Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1 has become such a popular long-distance ride is the sheer variety packed into a relatively compact island. Over the course of a single route, riders experience everything from busy cities and historic towns to remote valleys, coastlines and mountain landscapes. The scenery changes constantly, and so does the riding experience.
While many cyclists choose to complete the entire loop, certain sections have developed a reputation as standout stretches in their own right.
Huadong Valley (East Rift Valley)
For many riders, the eastern side of Taiwan provides the most memorable riding of the entire route. The Huadong Valley – often referred to as the East Rift Valley – stretches for around 180 kilometres along Taiwan’s eastern side and is widely considered one of the country’s most scenic regions.
Framed by mountains on both sides, the valley combines broad open landscapes with quieter roads and a noticeably more relaxed atmosphere than Taiwan’s west coast. Rice fields, rivers and small villages replace urban development, creating long stretches of riding where the scenery becomes the main focus.
The valley also offers an insight into Taiwan’s indigenous heritage. Communities including the Amis and Bunun peoples have long histories here, and travellers passing through can encounter traditional crafts, local customs and cultural influences that differ from elsewhere on the island.
Scattered through the region are small towns and settlements that make worthwhile stopping points, whether for local food, a coffee break or simply a chance to slow the pace for a while.
For cyclists who do not have time to complete the full Route 1 loop, this is often considered one of the strongest candidates for a shorter standalone ride.
Tainan City: Taiwan’s historic heart
While Taiwan’s east coast is often praised for scenery, some of Route 1’s most exciting experiences come from riding through its cities.
Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city and former capital, offers a very different atmosphere from the country’s more modern urban centres. Historic buildings, temples and traces of earlier Dutch influence sit alongside busy streets and contemporary life, creating a city with a distinctive character.
Landmarks including Confucius Temple, Fort Provintia and the National Museum of Taiwan History provide opportunities to explore the island’s past, but many visitors arrive with another priority in mind: the food.
Tainan is frequently described as Taiwan’s food capital, and it has earned a reputation for local specialities ranging from seafood dishes and noodle soups to desserts and street food. For cyclists, the city can also provide a welcome opportunity to ease the pace, spend time off the bike and experience a different side of Taiwan beyond simply riding through it.
Shouka Pass
Among the route’s more demanding sections, the climb to Shouka Pass stands out as one of the biggest physical challenges.
Located between Pingtung County and Taitung County, the climb rises gradually over approximately 21 kilometres and reaches around 436 metres above sea level. Although that altitude may not seem especially high compared with major European mountain passes, its position within a longer multi-day route means many cyclists reach it with tired legs.
The climb is often described as the major test of the southern section of Route 1. It requires patience rather than explosive climbing ability, and the sense of achievement at the summit can feel particularly satisfying after several days of riding.
As with many climbs on Route 1, the reward comes not only from reaching the top but from the scenery and changing landscapes encountered along the way.
Part 3: What is your suggested Route 1 itinerary?
There is no single “correct” way to ride Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1. Some cyclists complete the full circuit in little more than a week, while others allow two weeks or more so they can spend time exploring the places they pass through. Fitness, sightseeing priorities and the type of riding experience you want all influence the ideal schedule.
For many riders, somewhere between nine and fourteen days strikes a good balance. This gives enough time to cover the distance at a manageable pace while still allowing opportunities to experience Taiwan away from the bike.
The itinerary below follows an anticlockwise direction around the island over nine days. This remains one of the most common approaches because it allows riders to tackle gentler terrain initially and reach the more physically demanding sections later in the journey. However, it is also a relatively ambitious schedule, with some substantial daily distances. Riders looking for a more relaxed experience should consider spreading the route over additional days.
The nine-day itinerary below is relatively ambitious. If you prefer more time to explore, one option is to spread the journey over 10 to 14 days.
With extra time, you could also build in one or two shorter or non-riding days. Tainan, Taitung and Hualien are among the places already covered in this guide that you might want more time to explore.
Cyclists should also remember that Taiwan’s excellent rail network creates useful flexibility. If time becomes limited or legs begin to feel the accumulated effects of consecutive riding days, it is possible to shorten certain stages by using trains between towns.
Day 1: Taipei to Hsinchu (approximately 91 kilometres)
The route begins at Taipei Songshan Station before heading southwest through New Taipei City and towards Hsinchu. The first day offers an introduction to Taiwan’s urban landscapes and transport corridors before gradually moving towards quieter surroundings.
Along the way there are opportunities to explore places such as Pingxi District, known for its famous sky lantern festival, while Taipei itself offers enough attractions to justify arriving a day or two early before beginning the ride.
Day 2: Hsinchu to Changhua (approximately 102 kilometres)
The second day follows sections of Taiwan Highway No.1 and Highway No.61 as the route continues south.
Compared with later days, this section is relatively straightforward from a climbing perspective, with flatter terrain and stretches of riding alongside the Taiwan Strait. Coastal views become more prominent and there is an opportunity to settle into longer-distance riding.
Day 3: Changhua to Chiayi (approximately 83 kilometres)
The route continues south through smaller towns and agricultural areas, passing places including Yuanlin, Xiluo and Dounan.
This section offers a different side of Taiwan from the larger cities, with farming landscapes and local communities providing a glimpse into daily life away from major urban centres.
Day 4: Chiayi to Kaohsiung (approximately 104 kilometres)
Riding south from Chiayi towards Kaohsiung generally involves smoother roads and more forgiving terrain.
Tainan lies roughly midway along this stage and makes a worthwhile stop. Nearby, the Sicao Green Tunnel offers one of the more distinctive landscapes on the route, with waterways framed by dense overhanging vegetation.
Day 5: Kaohsiung to Pingtung (approximately 95 kilometres)
This stage remains relatively gentle in profile, although local conditions can sometimes make it feel harder than expected.
Strong winds are not unusual in southern Taiwan and can influence riding conditions significantly. Depending on the direction and weather systems at the time, headwinds may become a greater challenge than gradients.
Day 6: Pingtung to Taitung (approximately 116 kilometres)
For many cyclists, this is among the toughest days on the entire route.
The climb to Shouka Pass forms the main challenge, involving around 450 metres of ascent before a long descent follows on the far side. While the climbing itself is not extreme by Alpine standards, fatigue accumulated over several days of riding often makes this section feel considerably harder.
The scenery becomes increasingly impressive as the route heads towards Taiwan’s quieter eastern side.
Day 7: Taitung to Hualien (approximately 86 kilometres)
Many cyclists consider this one of the most visually striking sections of Route 1.
The route travels through parts of the East Rift Valley, where mountains, rice fields and open landscapes combine to create some of Taiwan’s most memorable riding. Traffic generally becomes lighter here and the atmosphere noticeably more relaxed.
Day 8: Hualien to Yilan (approximately 97 kilometres, or approximately 111 kilometres when riding the Suhua Highway)
This stage requires a decision.
The traditional route follows sections of the Suhua Highway, a dramatic road squeezed between mountains and coastline. The scenery can be dramatic, but cyclists should be aware that the route has historically been known for heavy traffic, large vehicles and narrow sections of road.
Many riders instead choose to take the train between Xincheng Station and Su’Ao Station before continuing by bike. While this means missing part of the route, it remains a common option and one many cyclists consider the safer and less stressful choice.
Day 9: Yilan to Taipei (approximately 115 kilometres)
The final day returns riders to Taipei and completes the island circuit.
Although the finish may feel close, the final stage still includes climbing and rolling terrain that can feel surprisingly demanding after more than a week on the road. Riders who have paced themselves well throughout the trip often appreciate having something left in reserve for the closing kilometres.
Completing the final approach into Taipei brings a satisfying conclusion to one of Asia’s most distinctive long-distance rides.
Part 4: What are Route 1’s conditions like and which direction should you ride?
One of the strengths of Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1 is that it was designed specifically with cyclists in mind. The route combines dedicated cycle paths, quieter country roads and sections of larger roads with cycling infrastructure, creating a network that is generally straightforward and enjoyable to ride.
Road quality across much of the route is also typically very good. As Route 1 links major towns, cities and tourist destinations around the island, surfaces are generally well maintained and suitable for road bikes as well as touring and endurance setups.
Most sections consist of smooth paved roads and cycle paths, although riders should expect occasional variation depending on location. In more rural or mountainous areas there can be rougher surfaces, patches of gravel or debris, and occasional sections that become muddy or slippery following wet weather. These sections are usually limited, but they reinforce the importance of remaining attentive, particularly when descending or riding after rain.
Is Route 1 well signposted?
One of the reasons Route 1 works particularly well for independent travellers is that navigation is relatively straightforward.
The route uses a clear system of signposts that feature a distinctive brown background and Taiwan cycling logo. Signage appears regularly throughout the route and is positioned at major intersections, junctions, bridge entrances and decision points where riders need direction changes.
Outside cities, signs generally appear every few kilometres, while urban sections are usually marked more frequently.
That said, navigation is not entirely foolproof. Larger cities and busier urban areas can occasionally create confusion, and it is still possible to miss a turn or unintentionally leave the route. Most cyclists therefore choose to download GPX files or use navigation apps alongside physical signage.
Clockwise or anticlockwise?
One of the most common questions riders ask when planning a Taiwan Route 1 trip is which direction to ride.
There is no single correct direction, but many first-time riders choose to cycle Route 1 anticlockwise.
There are several reasons for this. The western side of Taiwan, where most of the larger cities are located, generally offers more services, bike shops and places to stop. Riding anticlockwise also allows cyclists to ease into the trip before reaching some of the more physically demanding sections later on, including Shouka Pass and the rolling roads of the eastern side.
Seasonal weather patterns can also influence the decision. During cooler months, particularly between late autumn and early spring, riders travelling anticlockwise may benefit from more favourable wind conditions associated with Taiwan’s northeast monsoon.
However, route direction also depends on priorities. Cyclists who are more interested in scenery than completing the full loop may decide to focus primarily on the eastern side of Taiwan, where quieter roads and more distinctive scenery have made it a particular favourite among riders.
The important thing to remember is that Route 1 is flexible. Completing the full island circuit can be enormously satisfying, but many cyclists choose to ride selected sections instead and still experience some of Taiwan’s most memorable cycling.
Part 5: What do you need to know before cycling in Taiwan?
Once the route itself has been mapped out, the next stage is thinking about the practicalities. One of the advantages of cycling in Taiwan is that much of the infrastructure needed for a multi-day ride already exists, from accommodation and rail connections to convenience stores and bike support facilities.
Where should cyclists stay on Route 1?
Accommodation options are widely available along most of the route, particularly in larger towns and cities. Hotels, guesthouses, hostels and smaller locally run accommodation can all be found throughout Taiwan, giving riders flexibility depending on budget and travel style.
While not every property specifically targets cyclists, many places are used to welcoming riders and may offer practical touches such as early breakfast options or flexible check-out times.
Cyclists should not assume that secure bike storage or maintenance facilities are always available, however. If travelling with a more valuable bike or arriving late in the day, it is worth checking arrangements in advance.
Many riders also find that accommodation planning becomes easier once daily distances are decided. Larger cities naturally offer more options, while smaller towns and more rural sections can require a little more organisation.
Is it possible to hire a bike?
Bike hire is generally easiest to arrange in Taiwan’s larger cities, particularly around Taipei and other major urban areas.
However, cyclists planning to ride the full Route 1 loop should try to arrange rentals well in advance. Longer trips require greater attention to bike fit and comfort, and availability can become more limited during busier travel periods.
Riders should also be aware that bike sizing and specifications can differ from what some international visitors are used to. Those planning a substantial trip may therefore find bringing their own bike offers more familiarity and confidence, particularly if they already have a setup tailored to their position and riding style.
What kind of bike works best?
Route 1 is versatile enough that several different bike styles work well.
For riders travelling with luggage transfers or lighter packing arrangements, a road bike can be a very good choice thanks to the generally good road surfaces and long paved sections.
For cyclists carrying their own bags, or those who want more flexibility for rougher surfaces and detours, endurance bikes, gravel bikes or touring bikes fitted with slick or fast-rolling tyres can also work well.
Comfort often becomes more important than outright speed on a route of this length.
It is also worth thinking about how you plan to carry your luggage before choosing your setup. Some riders carry their own kit in bikepacking bags or panniers. Others use luggage transfers or travel with a lighter setup. The amount you carry can have a noticeable effect on comfort during the longer stages.
Is mechanical support available?
Taiwan has a strong cycling culture and mechanical assistance is available in many towns and cities.
Bike shops can be found in most larger population centres and are usually the first place to look for repairs or maintenance. In smaller areas, riders occasionally find that scooter or motorbike workshops can assist with simple problems such as punctures or basic fixes.
Along sections of Route 1 there are also bicycle service stations and support facilities designed specifically for cyclists. Convenience stores and some public buildings may provide drinking water and basic tools, making them useful stopping points during the day.
Support does become more limited in remote or mountainous areas, so riders should still carry the essentials needed to deal with common roadside issues independently.
What should cyclists pack?
For most riders, standard cycling kit is likely to cover the essentials, although Taiwan’s climate and weather patterns make a few additional items particularly useful.
Lightweight waterproof layers are worth carrying throughout the year, as rain can occur in any season and conditions may vary significantly between regions. Bike lights can also prove useful, especially during early starts, evening riding or on quieter rural roads.
Temperatures can fluctuate more than some riders expect, particularly during early mornings or at higher elevations, so lightweight layers for cooler conditions are often helpful.
Sun protection should not be overlooked either. Sunglasses, gloves and sunscreen can become essential during long days riding in exposed conditions.
Where can you find food and water on Route 1?
One of Taiwan’s advantages for cyclists is the availability of food and supplies.
Convenience stores are found throughout much of the country and become a familiar part of many riders’ daily routines. Chains such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart are common and can provide drinks, snacks and quick meals, making it easy to refuel without carrying excessive supplies.
Food options become more limited in mountain areas and some rural stretches, so it remains sensible to carry snacks and enough water between larger stops.
Although drinking water is available in many places, many visitors prefer filtered or bottled water during shorter trips.
How do you get to the start of Route 1?
Most international visitors arrive through Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport before travelling onwards to Taipei.
Taipei’s transport system makes it relatively straightforward to reach Songshan Station, which is commonly used as the start and finish point for Route 1.
Taiwan’s rail network also creates flexibility throughout the journey itself, making it possible to shorten stages, avoid difficult sections or adapt plans if needed.
Can you take bikes on public transport?
Taiwan’s public transport network can be extremely useful for cyclists, although rules vary depending on the type of transport being used.
Some metro systems allow bikes at specific stations or during certain periods, while Taiwan’s standard rail services generally offer more flexibility for carrying bicycles than the high-speed rail network.
Bus policies can vary, and carrying bikes on board may depend on whether they are packed or partially disassembled.
For longer journeys or train travel during busy periods, checking current transport guidance before travelling is always worthwhile.
Part 6: What are the tourist highlights, food and culture along Route 1?
One of the things that makes Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1 different from many long-distance cycling routes is that the experience extends well beyond the riding itself. Completing the route is not simply about reaching the finish point; it is also about moving through the different landscapes, communities and cultures that make up the island.
Because the route circles Taiwan rather than passing through a single region, cyclists encounter a remarkable variety of places over the course of the journey.
Which cities and towns does Route 1 pass through?
Route 1 passes through many of Taiwan’s major cities as well as numerous smaller towns and settlements, meaning the riding experience changes constantly from day to day.
Larger urban centres such as Taipei, Kaohsiung and Tainan bring a very different atmosphere from quieter rural areas. Cyclists may spend one morning riding through busy streets and modern cityscapes before finding themselves in farming communities or coastal towns later the same day.
One of the advantages of following a route that links so many populated areas is the opportunity to pause and explore beyond the bike. Many riders choose to add additional days into their itinerary, allowing time to experience certain places more fully rather than simply passing through them.
Taiwan’s network of branch routes also makes this easier, providing opportunities to visit additional destinations and attractions away from the main island loop.
What arts, culture and history can you experience along Route 1?
Taiwan’s history reflects influences from different cultures and periods, and that variety becomes visible throughout the route.
Historic temples, museums and traditional architecture appear regularly along the journey, often sitting alongside contemporary buildings and modern city life. Cyclists interested in Taiwan’s cultural heritage will find opportunities to explore sites ranging from historic temples and former settlements to museums and important public landmarks.
Tainan in particular provides an especially strong sense of Taiwan’s past, but cultural experiences are not confined to the cities. Smaller communities and local traditions encountered along the route can sometimes provide equally memorable moments.
The route also introduces riders to Taiwan’s indigenous heritage in certain regions, particularly on the eastern side of the island where local communities maintain longstanding traditions and cultural identities.
What natural landscapes can you see along Route 1?
The changing scenery is one of Route 1’s defining characteristics.
Across the course of the island loop, riders pass beaches, mountains, wetlands, agricultural landscapes and forested regions, often encountering multiple landscapes within a single day’s riding.
Taiwan’s eastern side has become especially popular among cyclists because of its quieter roads and dramatic scenery, but variety exists throughout the route. Coastal riding, mountain passes and broad valleys all contribute to a journey that rarely feels repetitive.
Many riders discover that some of their most memorable moments happen away from major landmarks – perhaps on a quiet road through rice fields, an unexpected coastal viewpoint or a peaceful stop between towns.
What food and drink should you try?
For many visitors, food becomes one of the highlights of cycling in Taiwan.
Taiwanese cuisine reflects a wide range of cultural influences, including Chinese, Japanese, Southeast Asian and indigenous traditions. The result is a varied and distinctive food culture that riders can experience throughout the route.
Staples such as rice, noodles and dumplings appear regularly, whether from street stalls, small restaurants or larger markets. Local specialities vary between regions and can range from noodle dishes and seafood to snacks and desserts.
Night markets form an important part of Taiwanese food culture and can provide a memorable way to spend an evening after a long day in the saddle. These lively spaces bring together local dishes, snacks and drinks in one place and are often as much a social experience as a place to eat.
Taiwan also has a strong tea culture, and cyclists will inevitably encounter another local favourite along the way: bubble tea, which originated in Taiwan and remains a popular refreshment, particularly during warmer weather.
Food availability generally makes life easy for cyclists. Restaurants, cafés, street vendors and convenience stores are widespread across towns and cities, although riders heading into more remote mountain areas should still carry enough food and water between stops.
The combination of riding and food is one of the reasons many cyclists finish Route 1 feeling they have experienced far more than simply a long-distance cycling challenge. The route offers a way to travel through Taiwan at a pace that allows its landscapes, culture and everyday life to unfold gradually along the way.
Part 7: When is the best time to ride Route 1 and what safety tips should you know?
Choosing when to ride Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1 can make a significant difference to the overall experience. Weather conditions vary across the island and between regions, with temperature, rainfall and seasonal winds all influencing riding conditions.
When is the best time to cycle Route 1?
For many cyclists, spring and autumn provide the most comfortable riding conditions.
March and April typically bring warmer temperatures without the intense summer heat, while late September through November is also widely regarded as an excellent time to ride. Many riders consider late October and November particularly attractive, as temperatures are often pleasant and rainfall tends to be lower.
Summer months from June through August can become extremely hot and humid. Temperatures can climb well beyond what many riders from northern Europe may be accustomed to, and Taiwan’s typhoon season can also affect travel plans during this period.
Winter conditions are generally milder than many cyclists might expect, but rain becomes more common, particularly across the northern part of the island. Seasonal weather systems and monsoon patterns can create prolonged wet periods at certain times of year.
Regardless of season, most riders benefit from planning for a degree of unpredictability. Carrying lightweight waterproof layers and sun protection is usually worthwhile throughout the year.
Do you need cash in Taiwan?
Taiwan is highly developed and convenient for travellers, but carrying cash remains useful.
While electronic payments have become increasingly common, smaller shops, markets and local food stalls may still prefer cash payments. Having local currency available can make daily stops easier, particularly outside larger cities.
Taiwan’s convenience stores also become valuable resources for cyclists. Alongside food and drinks, many provide access to cash machines, basic supplies and places to stop briefly during long riding days.
What should you know about traffic and cycling etiquette?
Cyclists in Taiwan ride on the right-hand side of the road.
Larger cities including Taipei and Kaohsiung have extensive cycling infrastructure, and dedicated cycle lanes appear throughout many urban areas. Riders should pay attention to local signage and road markings, particularly where cycle routes intersect with busy roads.
Motorbikes form a significant part of Taiwan’s transport culture and are extremely common in urban areas. Riders quickly become used to sharing the road with large numbers of scooters and motorcycles, particularly at junctions and in city traffic.
In busier cities, traffic conditions can feel more hectic than many visiting cyclists are used to. Riding during peak commuting periods can involve heavier traffic and more frequent stops, so some cyclists prefer to avoid rush-hour conditions where possible.
Do you need to speak Mandarin to cycle Route 1?
Mandarin Chinese is Taiwan’s official language, although English is commonly encountered in larger cities, transport hubs and tourist areas.
Road signs, transport information and many public facilities often include English translations, making independent travel relatively straightforward.
Outside major urban areas, English may become less common, but visitors generally find people welcoming and willing to help. Learning a few basic greetings or simple phrases can still be useful and is often appreciated.
How useful is public transport when cycling Route 1?
One of Taiwan’s advantages as a cycling destination is its transport network.
The rail system circles much of the island and can provide valuable flexibility for riders who want to shorten stages, avoid difficult conditions or adapt plans during the journey.
For some cyclists, this becomes an important safety net. Not every day goes according to plan on a multi-day route, and the ability to adjust distances can remove some of the pressure associated with a longer ride.
Is Taiwan Cycling Route 1 safe?
Taiwan is widely regarded as a safe destination for travellers and is often praised for its low crime levels, reliable infrastructure and ease of getting around.
For cyclists, the main considerations are generally road-related rather than personal safety concerns.
Remaining aware of larger vehicles including buses, trucks and scooters is important, particularly in cities and on busier roads. Riders travelling through mountainous regions should also remain alert for changing road conditions, including wet surfaces, debris or slippery sections following rain.
The route itself is generally straightforward to ride and well supported, but as with any longer cycling trip, preparation and awareness go a long way.
What’s next?
- Cycling in Taiwan: the inside guide, with broader tips on cycling in the country.
- 7 of the best cycling tours in Asia, which includes Route 1 plus others across the continent.
- 10 hardest cycling climbs in the world, featuring the challenging Mount Wuling in Taiwan.
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First Published: 28 July 2023
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Thanks for this – it’s a really good rundown! We did the route in February and it was an amazing experience (Wrote it up on my linked blog). Personally, I think it provides perfect infrastructure for a first timer to explore Taiwan. I wish we’d had another couple weeks to take it more slowly, explore more of the cities, and ride both the Rift Valley and coastal alternate on the East side of the country. My one hangup with the 1 is that it’s a bit of a grind through the West Coast cities. A thing I don’t see mentioned that often is how much stoplights and traffic slow you down on the West Coast. It made it hard trying to both make miles and get some appreciation for the cities. Personally, I loved the cities, but often felt we had to keep moving through because it was so slow going. My advice would be to plan to spend a day or two as you go through each one so it seems like less of a grind and you get more of a feel for the culture. I’d plan at very least two weeks for the route, and 3 – 4 if you really want to get the full Taiwan experience. It’s an amazing, friendly place. Thanks again!
Hi Tim, thanks for the personal insights and the valuable points you raise!
Such valuable info! Thank you! I’m thinking of doing this to celebrate my 50th birthday next March. Can’t make up my mind if I should do the whole thing in 2 weeks or just spend longer around the East coast and skip the cities. What do you recommend? 😊. I’ll be exploring Taipei anyway this Dec as my son is moving there then for a year to study Mandarin. He will join my husband and I for a week of the cycle during his semester break 🙂
Hey there , ! Did you had a tent or did you sleep in accomodation? It is worst to to do the west or better to focus on a east coast?
Hi Tim, this is an interview article, we haven’t done it ourselves. See Q7 for your query on clockwise/anticlockwise. Have a great trip!
Thanks for the rundown of your cycling experience in Taiwan. We are also thinking of cycling route 1 from Kaohsiung to Taipei starting around Feb 24. I know weather is always a risk but in your Feb experience, did you have a lot of rain and unpleasant winds/weather? Appreciate any update you can provide. Tnx,
Joni
We just did the circumnavigation. You don’t need to worry about following a route or itinerary or pre book hotels or having a guide. Just hire your bike for 2 weeks, open up your google maps ‘directions’ and pick town 4 to 6 hours bike ride away and off you go. When you get t here type ‘hotel’ in the search of your google maps and all the options with prices and reviews come up. Super easy. Everywhere is mapped. Toilets in 99% of 7-Elevens which are on every block. Protip – take a 10kmAh+ powerbank and a phone holder for your bike handle bars so you can keep google maps directions running in front of you the whole day showing you exactly where to go turn by turn. Its super easy. If yo usee somewhere that looks nice – turn off the route and google maps replans your journey instantly for your custom tour of Taiwan. Your welcome. Enjoy.
Hi Simon, thanks so much for sharing your experience, it sounds like you had an amazing time!
Great information. Wish I read this before we went!
We’re just back from Taiwan, cycling the north and eastern sections of that route, down to rift valley to Taitung, back up to Taroko and over to Puli. Very lucky in to be in Tianxiang during the earthquake. Got stranded a few days but it was the safest place in the gorge.
The old Suhua highway from Xincheng to Su’ao was one of the highlights. Most of the route you have the road to yourself. There are about 15 km in total where they haven’t built a new highway and it’s shared with the main traffic. Those bits were pretty terrifying, but worth the pay off of all the empty road I think (and I’m a pretty timid cyclist in traffic.. just be well lit in the tunnels and ride like buggery). Trucks were generally pretty good at giving you space. Mopeds were the worst, followed by 4WDs and coaches. Riding anticlockwise is best to always be on the coast side.
All that section of road was damaged in the earthquake. Hope they reopen both roads, though their priority would obviously be on the newer highway.
Hi Mike, thanks for taking the time to share your experience and info. I’m so pleased to hear you were safe during the earthquake. Sounds like an amazing trip!
Hey! This is incredible info! Just what I need before I do this trip this fall! One question I had for you is what is the camping scenario in Taiwan. I was planning to take my camping gear with me on the bike. Did you find any campsites on your way that were being used by citizens/tourists? Thanks a lot for all this info!
Hi there, we don’t have any personal info on camping – sounds like we need a follow up article on this though! Have a great trip!
Hello,
Where can I find a list of the ’25 extra officially-planned branches’? I am trying to plan my route.
Check out Taiwan Tourism Administration’s website – they should have info there.