A 1,000km Bike Ride Around Taiwan
Wednesday, 2026/08/05188 words3 minutes2176 reads
The Huandao is a nearly 1,000km cycling journey around Taiwan. Every year, thousands of people ride the route, usually clockwise from Taipei. For many young riders, it is a rite of passage before university.
The route offers a different view of the island. Cyclists can pass dramatic northern rocks, quiet fishing villages, the more open eastern coast, southern beaches and busy western cities. BBC Travel says people do not have to complete the whole circuit; they can start anywhere or cycle one section.
The eastern coast is especially attractive to riders looking for open roads and a slower rhythm. The BBC writer completed a 500km journey from Taipei to Taitung in 11 days, staying in small guesthouses along the way. This was one traveller's experience, not a fixed plan for everyone.
The article recommends March to April or October to November, when riders can avoid the hottest weather and the summer monsoon season. Bike rental, convenience stores and local accommodation can make the journey more practical. The main attraction, however, is time: cycling lets travellers notice landscapes and communities that they might miss from a car or train.
