For my own reference, you are free to take a look :-)
This map was created after many hours spent traversing forums, travel websites, and racking my brains out trying to decipher Mandarin. Focusing on Taichung then Taipei for a leisurely trip, as I don't think traveling across the island is a good plan with heavy luggage in tow.
Day 1:
Upon touching down at Taoyuan International Airport, head directly to Taichung via the HSR (High Speed Rail). Tickets can be purchased online in advance, with a discount for early booking.
If reach Taichung early, we could stroll along West District (經國綠園道)
Spend the night at Taichung at a hotel within walking distance of Fengjia Night Market.
Day 2:
Head out early for a visit to Lavendar Cottage, or Monster Village by bus, followed by a visit to Sun Moon Lake. You could either take a taxi there (if 4 or more), or hop on the bus. Go on a cruise across the lakes to visit the many attractions. Ride the cable car for the marvellous view. The Aboriginal Village Amusement Park is worth a visit if you like One Piece.
Spend the night at Sun Moon Lake.
Day 3:
From Sun Moon Lake, take a taxi to CingJing. Puli Brewery is somewhere between SML and CingJing so you could make a stop there. Alternatively, take the bus.
Have a relaxing day there. Some places to visit include Green Green Grassland, Swiss Garden and Carton King.
Spend the night in CingJing.
Day 4:
Rise and shine early (really early) for sunrise at HeHuanShan. After checking out at noon, head to Taipei. There are 3 options:
Take a cab, board a bus to Taichung and hop on the HSR, or take a bus direct to Taipei by E-go (slowest)
After reaching Taipei and checking into your minsu or hotel, drop by Wu Fen Pu for some retail therapy. Have dinner at Raohe Night Market before calling it a day. Backup plan: Eat and browse in Taipei Underground Main Station.
Day 5:
Visit Taipei 101. Good news! The MRT Line to Taipei 101 is now open! For something different, go to Maokong and hop on a cable car ride. Relax while enjoying tea at one of the many hillside cafes. Or if you reached Taipei too late yesterday, drop by Wu Fen Pu for some shopping. Have dinner at ShihLin Night Market.
Day 6:
First stop of the day: Ye Liu Geopark, try to go early to avoid the tourist crowds. If time permits, visit Jinguashi as well.
Spend the afternoon at the streets of Jiufen. Visit Kee Lung night market but remember to hop on the bus by 9+, as the last bus to Jiufen departs by 9:40. Back to Taipei. Some might opt to spend the night in Jiufen to experience the wonderful views.
Day 7:
Start the morning with CKS Memorial. From there, go to Long Shan Temple and Bo Pi Liao.
Walk around Xi Men Ding at night.
Day 8:
Catch spring blossoms in full bloom at Yangming Shan. Make a stop at Bei Tou followed by Dan Shui. Stroll along Dan Shui old street, and catch sunset at Fisherman's Wharf and Lover's Bridge.
Day 9:
Free and Easy in Taipei. Shop for souvenirs.
Note: most shops in Taipei will not open before 11AM.
Day 10:
Free and Easy until departure time.
Most people would opt to go to Taipei first. It all boils down to personal preferences.
Would it be best to experience the warmth of Taipei first, take a relaxing break in between, before heading back again to Taipei to continue shopping?
Or would it be easier to take the trip down South first so that less time is spent traveling to and fro?
Is there a place where heavy luggage can be placed temporarily, or do we need to take the luggage with us?
Go figure. I hope this will be of help to someone.
