Chiayi is Taiwan’s top emerging destination – Agoda
Taipei, 2 January 2025 – Chiayi has emerged as the fastest growing destination for attracting international travelers visiting Taiwan, according to digital travel platform Agoda. The travel platform’s New Horizons list further reveals Taoyuan to be the top trending domestic destination and Kumamoto to be the top emerging international destination among Taiwanese travelers.
Agoda’s New Horizons ranking, which is released annually, compares the accommodation booking ranks of the two previous years to identify the highest climbers in both domestic and international travel.
Chiayi’s growing appeal stems from its reputation as a gateway to the Alishan National Scenic Area, one of Taiwan’s most iconic mountain destinations. Visitors are captivated by its natural beauty, tranquil landscapes, and the renowned Alishan Forest Railway. Chiayi is also gaining recognition as a food lover’s haven, offering local delicacies such as turkey rice and braised fish head in casserole to experience uniquely Taiwanese dishes.
Taoyuan, on the other hand, is rising in popularity among domestic travelers. Its strategic location near Taipei and Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, coupled with its rich cultural heritage, makes it a convenient and attractive destination. Known for its tea farms and traditional tea-making culture, Taoyuan provides travelers with a blend of modern convenience and historic charm.
For outbound Taiwanese travelers, Kumamoto has become a favorite. Known as the “Land of Fire,” Kumamoto captivates visitors with its volcanic landscapes, particularly Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest active volcanoes. Travelers are drawn to its breathtaking natural scenery and unique cultural experiences, such as exploring the iconic Kumamoto Castle, making it a must-visit destination in Japan.
Mike Chi, Country Director Taiwan at Agoda said, “It’s exciting to see up-and-coming destinations like Chiayi and Taoyuan gain recognition among international and domestic travelers alike for their unique local offerings and authentic Taiwanese charm. Meanwhile, hidden gems like Kumamoto in Japan offer Taiwanese travelers more opportunities for novel experiences in emerging destinations. At Agoda, we’re committed to making travel more accessible by offering great value deals and inspiring travelers to explore more of the world in 2025.”
Looking at the top emerging destinations for Asian travelers combined, it is Shanghai that tops the New Horizons list. The Chinese metropolis is followed by Jeju (South Korea), Paris (France), Nha Trang (Vietnam), and Fukuoka (Japan).
Travelers preparing for their travel plans for 2025 are encouraged to check out Agoda’s great value deals on over 4.5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities and experiences that are available on the platform. The latest deals are available in the Agoda app or on agoda.com/deals.