Taiwan lies on the eastern edge of the Asian continent, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Taiwan Strait. In terms of both climate and geography, the island runs the gamut from temperate to tropical landscapes. It is a land with regions of enchanting scenic beauty, including solemn, majestic mountains and deep, magnificent valleys. Winter, spring, summer and fall--each season paints a unique picture of natural beauty.
It is said that nature is the eternal friend of humankind. The deep blue sea and verdant earth embody Taiwan's vitality and provide the foundation on which its flora and fauna grow.
Visitors to this island can enjoy a day by the seashore watching the rolling waves and listening to the sounds as they crash ashore, or head high into the hills to experience the unbroken quiet and stillness of a picturesque mountain view. The beaches, cliffs and islets of Taiwan offer the perfect environment to enjoy the meeting of land and sea.
From the bustling prosperity of the island's great cities to the quaint charm of tiny villages nestled in remote mountain locales, Taiwan is full of sights unseen in the West and places where visitors can experience the enthusiastic hospitality and warmth of the people.
This collection of images from some of Taiwan's top photographers seeks to give a feeling for the splendid natural attractions of this ocean isle; a small, but precious jewel in the geography of East Asia.
Winter snow stays as late as April or May on the slopes of Taiwan's highest peak, Jade Mountain, which is also known as the "snowy mountain of the tropics." (Photo by Sie Sin-tian)
Protected butterflies abound in the Maolin National Scenic Area spanning Kaohsiung County and Pingtung County in southern Taiwan. (Photo by Tsai Tung-chin)
Taiwan is often called a flower lover's paradise. Here, the sunlight of early morning infuses lakeside water lilies with elegance and beauty. (Photo by Pan Kun-shen)
The first shaft of morning light brushes softly against the worn sandstone of Taiwan's northeast coast, highlighting the natural beauty of the stone. (Photo by Yan Ming-bang)
The busy fishing port of Nanfang-ao in Yilan County is a major base of operations for Taiwan's deep-sea fishing fleet. (Photo by Li Jian-ren)
The serene waters of Songluo Lake, Yilan County, also known as Sweet Seventeen Lake or Dream Lake, make for a tranquil retreat. (Photo by Lin Jyun-wang)