Taiwan's Cycling Route No. 2 nears completion as island builds on cycling tourism appeal

Taiwan is stepping up efforts to become an even more bicycle-friendly destination, with Minister of Transportation and Communications Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱) confirming that the island's Cycling Route No. 2, a 1,020-kilometer cycling network around Taiwan proper designed to link scenic and cultural attractions, is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Chen made the remarks while attending a signing ceremony for a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Taiwan's Cycling Life Style Foundation and the Japan Cycling Congress, an agreement aimed at promoting cycling culture and bicycle safety education in both countries.

“We hope these facilities will boost cycling across the country and attract cyclists from Japan,” Chen said.

Chen also said about 40% of the route would consist of dedicated bicycle lanes, creating a safer environment for cyclists and allowing travelers to experience Taiwan's landscapes at a more leisurely pace.

This project marks the latest step in Taiwan's efforts to promote cycling tourism, an area in which the island has built an international reputation through its round-island cycling routes, extensive bike-friendly infrastructure, and dramatic mix of coastal, mountain, and rural scenery.

A nearly 1,000km journey

For many international visitors, cycling around Taiwan has become a bucket-list adventure. The island's official round-island cycling route, Cycling Route No. 1, spans a total length of 960.8 kilometers, takes riders through bustling cities, quiet farming communities, rugged coastlines, and some of East Asia's most scenic cycling roads.

Most riders complete the journey in 9 to 12 days, though some experienced cyclists finish it in less than a week. Others choose to spread the trip over two weeks or more, turning the ride into a slower exploration of Taiwan's culture, food, and natural attractions.

The route can be ridden clockwise or counterclockwise, with many cyclists opting for a counterclockwise direction to take advantage of prevailing winds along Taiwan's east coast.

Why cyclists keep coming back

Part of Taiwan's appeal lies in its remarkable geographic diversity. Within a single day, riders can cycle along dramatic coastlines, pass through agricultural plains, and climb into mountain landscapes. Few destinations offer such varied scenery within such a compact area.

The island's east coast is widely regarded as the highlight of the journey. Long stretches of road between Hualien and Taitung offer sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, while the East Rift Valley provides a quieter alternative lined with rice fields, small towns, and mountain backdrops.

Southern Taiwan offers a different atmosphere, with tropical scenery and coastal roads leading toward Kenting National Park. In central Taiwan, many cyclists choose to make a detour to Sun Moon Lake, home to one of the island's most popular cycling routes.

Planning your ride

Taiwan's round-island route is often recommended to first-time cycling tourists because of its accessibility and convenience.

Convenience stores, accommodations, and reliable mobile coverage are readily available throughout most of the journey, while the island's rail network also allows riders to shorten sections if needed. Clear route signage and a generally safe riding environment have also helped make Taiwan a popular destination among international cyclists.

While cycling is possible year-round, spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for a round-island journey. From October to April, cooler temperatures and lower humidity provide more comfortable riding conditions, while avoiding the peak summer heat and most of the typhoon season.