Taiwan's technological revolution and the devoted work ethic of its people are well known, but this tiny island nation off the coast of China possesses a plethora of little known surprises, among them: misty towering peaks famous for sunrises and high-mountain tea; the world's finest Chinese art museum; coral reefs and sea critters that thrive in its tropical waters; aborigine people who are alive and well and still practice such age-old traditions as harvest dances; and undoubtedly the best Chinese cuisine in the world. National Geographic guides the traveller through this enchanting land of unexpected charms with this lavishly illustrated, fully updated guidebook. Broken into six regional chapters, this fully updated edition of the guide begins in Taipei, where traditional night markets and bustling Taoist temples contrast its 21st-century skyline (the tallest building in the world is under construction here). You then explore Taipei's surroundings and other sites in the North, including the potter's town of Yingko, where you can stroll down one long lane devoted to pottery shops featuring works made right in town; take the cure at Beitou hot springs; and hike through Yangmingshan National Park, popular for its mountain scenery and spring flowers. Next it's off to Taiwan's East Coast and one of Taiwan's major tourist sites, the stunning Taroko Gorge, a marble canyon etched with a roadway for easy access, but branched with lots of remote hiking trails. Take a drive farther down the coast through the East Coast National Scenic Area, along high-steeped cliffs past turquoise seas and sandy beaches. In the south of the island, you won't believe the gorgeous beaches lapped by turquoise waters; Kenting National Park is a prime birding spot, but is also known for its outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. Explore some of the remote offshore islands in the Taiwan Straits, including Penghu, famed for snorkeling, scuba diving, and charming fishing villages; and Kimen, a national park island whose underground military bases offer insight into the tenuous Sino-Taiwanese relationship. Wrapping back north through central west Taiwan, you can take the alpine railway to the tiptop of 10,000-foot Alishan, a mystical realm high above the clouds offering hiking, fabulous scenery, and the chance to relax. Neighboring Jade Mountain, Taiwan's highest peak, lurks in the distance, beckoning the brave and adventurous to climb its summit. Sun Moon Lake lies nearby, its peak-ringed waters changing hues with the daylight, creating romantic scenes popular among the honeymooners who flock here.

"The Rough Guide to Taiwan" is the ultimate guide to this fascinating island. Discover Taiwan's highlights with stunning photography, clear maps and detailed coverage of all the top attractions and lesser-visited sights. From the island's magnificent national parks and tranquil hot spring resorts, to its most lavish temples and the mind-blowing National Palace Museum. Find practical advice on what to see and do in Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung, relying on up-to-date descriptions of the best hotels, bars, clubs, shops and restaurants for all budgets. Explore Taiwan's fabulous culinary scene, from the top boutique restaurants to the best local street food. Plus, learn how to make the most of Taiwan's gasp-inducing hinterland; Alishan, Kenting, Yushan, Sun Moon Lake and the offshore islands are described in detail and made easily accessible, even for non-Chinese speakers. Accurate maps and comprehensive practical information help you get under the skin of this dynamic island, whilst stunning photography and a full-colour introduction make "The Rough Guide to Taiwan" your ultimate travelling companion. Make the most of your trip with "The Rough Guide to Taiwan".

Taiwan is one of the most crowded countries on Earth but beyond the ocean of people and vehicles, far from the neon and noise that confronts new arrivals, there's an island of breathtaking mountain vistas, bird-rich forests and quaint villages where folk religion thrives. This is the guide for individuals who want more than the treasures of the National Palace Museum, the beaches of Kending and the well-beaten trails of Alishan. Whether you aim to rough it on mountain peaks, observe age-old rituals in tucked-away temples or wallow in five-star comfort, Bradt's "Taiwan" will lead you on an unforgettable journey through Asia's newest destination.