Complete Guide to Taipei’s Must-Visit Attractions
Taipei is a city where modern skyscrapers like Taipei 101 stand beside ancient temples and energetic night markets. Guests can savor world-renowned street food and explore attractions from bustling urban centers to serene hot springs and mountains.
Taipei, Taiwan evening skyline.
The city’s cultural heritage is showcased in both its historic temples and insightful museums, offering a journey through Taiwanese history. Night markets delight visitors with authentic street food, adding flavor to the city’s dynamic atmosphere.
Beyond the city, day trips feature scenic waterfalls, tranquil beaches, and quaint mountain towns. Each neighborhood boasts its own character, and numerous family-friendly attractions guarantee memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Top Landmarks and Must-See Tourist Spots
Taipei’s skyline is defined by its iconic structures, reflecting the city’s contemporary spirit. This capital city impresses with skyscrapers that provide world-class vistas, scenic hiking trails with panoramic city views, and historic memorials that celebrate Taiwan’s political legacy.
Taipei 101 and Observatory
Taipei 101, Taiwan’s foremost landmark and former world’s tallest building, rises 508 meters above the city with its bamboo-inspired silhouette.
The high-speed elevators whisk visitors to the observatory on the 89th floor in just 37 seconds, revealing sweeping views of Taipei and its mountainous backdrop. The skyscraper’s lower levels feature luxury stores and fine dining, while the 91st-floor outdoor deck offers an exhilarating open-air vantage point.
After dark, Taipei 101 is illuminated with vibrant LED displays. The building also allows guests to see the massive tuned mass damper, which helps stabilize the tower during earthquakes and strong winds.
Elephant Mountain Trail
For those seeking the best view of Taipei 101 and the city, Elephant Mountain is the ideal viewpoint. Begin your 20-30 minute hike at Xiangshan MRT Station, following the well-kept stone path. Along the way, several viewing platforms offer varied city and skyscraper perspectives.
Photographers will find sunrise and sunset the most appealing, though these times are also popular, and the trail can get crowded, particularly on weekends.
The trail is moderately challenging with steep stairs and rocky segments. Bring water and wear appropriate footwear for safety.
Liberty Square and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Covering 25 hectares, Liberty Square is anchored by the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall—renowned for its blue tiles and white marble. This central monument houses exhibits on Taiwan’s former president and key moments in the nation’s political history, offering artifacts and displays for visitors to explore.
Bordered by traditional Chinese gates and gardens, the square is also famous for its hourly changing of the guard at the main hall, a spectacle that attracts many. The National Theater and National Concert Hall, located on either side, regularly present cultural performances, cementing the square’s reputation as an artistic and historical center.
Vibrant Night Markets and Local Experiences
Taipei is renowned for its night markets, where you can experience Taiwan’s lively street food scene and local culture. Neighborhoods like Ximending are popular for shopping and entertainment, while Dihua Street is known for its traditional atmosphere and becomes especially vibrant during Lunar New Year celebrations.
Shilin Night Market
Taipei’s largest and most famous night market, Shilin Night Market, is conveniently located near Shilin MRT Station and opens daily from 4 PM to midnight.
The market consists of two main sections. The underground food court hosts well-known vendors selling specialties like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), beef noodle soup, and bubble tea. Above ground, the lively street-level area offers games, clothing stalls, and a wide variety of other food vendors.
Must-try foods include:
- Pepper pork buns
- Oyster omelets
- Fried chicken cutlets
- Stinky tofu
- Fresh fruit juices
The market becomes extremely crowded on weekends and holidays. Visitors are advised to arrive in the early evening for easier navigation and shorter food lines.
Shilin Night Market is directly connected to an underground mall, offering air-conditioned shopping and dining options during the hot summer months.
Ximending Neighborhood
Often called the “Harajuku of Taipei,” Ximending is the city’s primary entertainment district and is known for its pedestrian-friendly streets bustling from afternoon until late night.
Within the neighborhood, the Ximending Pedestrian Area brims with street vendors, boutique stores, international brands, and several multi-level shopping centers, offering a wide range of shopping experiences.
In the main plaza, street performers—including musicians, dancers, and artists—fill the evenings with vibrant entertainment, energizing the entire district.
Key attractions include:
- Red House Theater (historic venue and weekend market)
- Modern cinema complexes
- Themed cafes and restaurants
- Vintage clothing stores
The area is popular with young travelers and pop culture enthusiasts, thanks to food courts and restaurants serving both Taiwanese specialties and international cuisine. Conveniently located, Ximending can be reached directly via Ximen MRT Station on the blue line.
Dihua Street and Lunar New Year Festivities
Dihua Street stands as a symbol of Taipei’s traditional commercial heritage. Particularly lively in January and February during Lunar New Year preparations, the street is lined with historic shophouses from the Japanese colonial era.
Here, vendors specialize in goods like traditional Chinese medicine, dried goods, and textiles. During the lead-up to the holiday, the street comes alive as vendors offer festival essentials such as dried fruits, nuts, tea, snacks, and decorative items. Red lanterns and banners adorn the area, enhancing the festive spirit.
Popular purchases include:
- Premium teas and traditional herbs
- Dried seafood and preserved fruits
- Fabric and traditional clothing
- Handmade crafts and souvenirs
Several trendy cafés and restaurants are set in renovated historic buildings along the street, blending modern dining with traditional architecture. You can conveniently reach Dihua Street via Dadaocheng Wharf MRT Station or by taking bus routes from central Taipei.
Wufenpu Shopping District
Wufenpu, Taiwan’s largest clothing wholesale market, is conveniently located near Songshan Station. The shopping district features several interconnected buildings filled with vendors offering affordable fashion and accessories. Shoppers flock here for its wide selection and budget-friendly wholesale prices.
Shopping highlights include:
- Women’s fashion and accessories
- Trendy streetwear and casual clothing
- Shoes and handbags
- Jewelry and small accessories
Wufenpu operates daily from late morning through the evening. For a more comfortable shopping experience, consider visiting on weekdays, as weekends are usually very crowded.
While the district primarily targets women aged 15 to 35, shoppers can also find men’s and unisex clothing options.
Most stalls expect bargaining, and vendors are often willing to discount prices for bulk purchases or cash payments.
Exploring Taipei’s Cultural and Historical Heritage
Taipei’s vibrant cultural scene weaves together centuries of Chinese history, Taiwan’s colonial heritage, and a thriving modern creative spirit. Visitors can discover ancient artifacts, traditional temples, well-preserved historic streets, and revitalized cultural spaces that illustrate the city’s ongoing evolution.
National Palace Museum
Home to the world’s largest collection of Chinese art and artifacts, the National Palace Museum holds over 700,000 pieces spanning 8,000 years of history.
Iconic treasures like the Jade Cabbage and meat-shaped stone, renowned for their intricate craftsmanship, draw millions of visitors each year. The Jade Cabbage, created from a single piece of jadeite during the Qing Dynasty, is especially famous.
Bronze vessels, ancient paintings, and imperial porcelain are displayed throughout the museum, with each floor focusing on different dynasties and artistic traditions. Most visitors spend between three and four hours touring the main exhibits.
Audio guides are available in several languages, and the gift shop offers high-quality replicas and books about Chinese art.
Lungshan Temple
Built in 1738, Lungshan Temple is regarded as Taipei’s most significant Buddhist temple, having endured both earthquakes and World War II bombings.
At its heart, the main hall honors Guanyin, the goddess of mercy, where worshippers burn incense and pray for health, prosperity, and protection. Every day, the temple welcomes both spiritual devotees and curious tourists.
The temple’s interior is richly decorated, featuring intricate wood carvings, vibrant paintings, spiral dragons on red pillars, and mythical creatures guarding the entrances—all hallmarks of traditional Taiwanese temple design.
Outside, local fortune tellers offer their services, and visitors can observe time-honored rituals like tossing moon blocks for divine guidance.
Bopiliao Old Street
Visiting Bopiliao Old Street offers an immersive journey through over 200 years of Taipei’s history and culture. Nestled in the city’s historic Wanhua District, Bopiliao features beautifully restored Qing Dynasty-era buildings with distinctive red brick, arched facades, curved roofs, and wooden shutters, transporting visitors back to the 1800s. The street leads directly to Dadaocheng, known for its traditional medicine and fabric shops, both of which played pivotal roles in Taipei’s early commercial development.
Admission is free, and well-placed information boards recount the stories behind each building and illuminate the daily routines of former residents. Inside, modern exhibitions highlight local heritage, education, and the evolution of the city’s urban landscape.
The area is perfect for photography, leisurely strolls, and gaining a deeper appreciation for how historic Taipei has shaped the modern metropolis. Conveniently located near Longshan Temple and easily accessible by MRT, Bopiliao Historic Block is a must-see for those interested in history, architecture, and local culture.
Huashan 1914 Creative Park
Once a wine factory, Huashan 1914 Creative Park has become Taiwan’s premier cultural hotspot. Its colonial-era buildings now host galleries, theaters, and creative studios, while art exhibitions rotate monthly to spotlight both local and international talent. The park regularly features live performances, film screenings, and design markets, and its studios serve as hubs for workshops and collaborative projects.
Legacy Taipei, the park’s renowned music venue, attracts top performers from all over Asia. Meanwhile, the park’s cafés and restaurants, located within repurposed warehouses, offer distinctive dining options. Throughout the complex, the fusion of historic industrial architecture and innovative art installations creates a visually striking environment for visitors.
Natural Attractions and Outdoor Activities
Taipei provides wonderful escapes from urban life, with mountain parks offering hiking trails and volcanic hot springs. Its green spaces ensure fresh air and scenic views, making outdoor recreation easily accessible from the heart of the city.
Yangmingshan National Park
Nestled just north of Taipei, Yangmingshan National Park boasts extensive hiking trails, dramatic volcanic scenery, and seasonal cherry blossoms. Covering 11,338 hectares of mountainous terrain, the park is home to hot springs and sulfur vents.
Hikers can choose from a variety of trails, from gentle walks to strenuous mountain ascents. The Qixing Mountain trail climbs to Yangmingshan’s highest point at 1,120 meters.
The area’s distinct volcanic features include bubbling fumaroles and mineral-rich hot springs, with sulfur deposits coloring the rocks and landscape.
Best visiting times:
- Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom
- Fall (September-November): Clear mountain views and comfortable temperatures
- Winter: Fewer crowds but cooler weather
The park has visitor centers, restrooms, and food vendors at main entrance points. Public buses connect the park to Taipei’s MRT system for easy access.
Daan Forest Park
Spanning 25.9 hectares in Taipei’s city center, Daan Forest Park is the city’s largest urban green space. It features walking paths, grassy fields, playgrounds, and a pond with ducks and fish. Tall trees throughout the park offer shade and help filter the urban air.
Visitors often come to jog, practice tai chi, or have family picnics. The park also includes outdoor exercise stations and accessible paved paths for wheelchairs and strollers.
Park features:
- Multiple entrance gates
- Public restrooms
- Drinking fountains
- Benches and pavilions
The park provides direct access to Daan Park MRT station on the brown line. While it’s open 24 hours a day, it is most lively during daylight hours.
Beitou Hot Springs and Thermal Valley
Located in the northern mountains, Beitou District is famous for its hot springs that use natural volcanic heat. The area is filled with public baths, hotels, and spas offering a wide variety of mineral water treatments.
One of Beitou’s highlights is Thermal Valley, with dramatic scenery created by steaming sulfur springs that reach up to 90°C. The strong sulfur smell and year-round mist add to the unique atmosphere.
Visitors can relax in free public foot baths or choose private bathing facilities. The Beitou Hot Springs Museum, a former Japanese-era bathhouse, details the area’s history and culture.
To reach Beitou, take the red MRT line from central Taipei. The main hot springs and Thermal Valley are a short walk from Xinbeitou MRT station.
Exciting Day Trips from Taipei
Within two hours of Taipei, visitors can explore breathtaking coastal formations, stroll through historic mountain villages, and participate in traditional lantern festivals. These destinations showcase Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage and scenic diversity.
Jiufen: Santorini of Taiwan
Perched high on Keelung Mountain with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Jiufen was once a bustling gold mining town. Today, it’s known for its narrow, stone-paved steps and traditional teahouses built into the mountain.
Nicknamed the “Santorini of Taiwan” for its impressive clifftop setting, Jiufen comes alive at night with red lanterns lighting up the main street. Visitors can enjoy tea and traditional Taiwanese snacks at various charming tea shops, many of which offer scenic views.
Jiufen is about an hour from Taipei by bus, or you can take a train to Ruifang Station and transfer to a connecting bus. The village is especially popular and busy on weekends and holidays.
Street vendors sell local favorites like taro balls and fish ball soup. Jiufen is also famous for inspiring scenes in Studio Ghibli’s beloved film “Spirited Away.”
Pingxi and Sky Lanterns
Pingxi Village is renowned for preserving Taiwan’s 200-year-old sky lantern tradition. Visitors inscribe their wishes on large paper lanterns and release them into the sky, symbolizing hope and good fortune.
Pingxi Old Street, lined with traditional shops and food stalls, winds alongside historic railway tracks. Trains continue to run straight through the heart of the village multiple times a day, adding to its unique charm.
Throughout the day, crowds gather to witness the lantern releases, culminating in the annual Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, which draws thousands. Each colored lantern carries a different wish.
Traveling from Taipei takes about 90 minutes by train, with a transfer at Ruifang Station. Local vendors offer a variety of pre-made and customizable lanterns for purchase.
Shifen Waterfall and Shifen Old Street
Shifen Waterfall, Taiwan’s widest, cascades 20 meters down a 40-meter-wide curtain into a rocky natural amphitheater. To reach the falls, visitors follow a scenic 15-minute forest trail from Shifen Old Street, with several viewing platforms along the way for unique perspectives.
Shifen Old Street is uniquely situated on active railway tracks. Between trains, visitors can stroll along the tracks and enjoy browsing local shops selling sky lanterns and traditional snacks.
As the train line also connects Shifen with Pingxi, many visitors explore both villages in a single day. Food stalls offer bamboo tube rice and other local treats.
Yehliu Geopark and Queen’s Head
Yehliu Geopark, located on Taiwan’s coast, is famous for its unique rock formations sculpted by ocean erosion over thousands of years. Notable features include mushroom rocks, candle rocks, the striking Fairy Shoe, and Elephant Rock. Walking paths wind through the park, connecting various viewing areas along the scenic coastline, and the park can be explored in about two hours.
The park’s main attraction is the Queen’s Head rock, an iconic formation resembling a woman’s profile facing the ocean. Erosion continues to change its appearance gradually.
Yehliu Geopark is easily accessible from Taipei, with direct buses taking around 90 minutes. A small entrance fee applies, and visitors are advised to wear warm clothing due to the strong ocean winds year-round.
Northeast Coast Instagram Tour in New Taipei
Take a leisurely stroll along Taiwan’s stunning northeast coast, where you can gaze out at sweeping ocean vistas and the rhythmic waves crashing against rocky shores. Explore the region’s most stress-relieving trail, renowned for its spectacular panoramic views of the sea and lush green hills. Capture memorable photos at the historic, 200-year-old fishing port, now beautifully revitalized into a vibrant, colorful harbor bustling with charming boats.
Savor the flavors of Keelung Night Market, famous for its diverse, mouthwatering local cuisines and lively evening atmosphere. Your tour includes a knowledgeable guide and convenient shuttle service to and from Taipei Main Station, ensuring a seamless and comfortable travel experience.
Scenic Waterfronts and Distinct Neighborhoods
Tamsui is Taipei’s premier waterfront escape, known for its historic sites, romantic bridges, and tranquil river walks. The district seamlessly blends Dutch colonial heritage with modern attractions along the Tamsui River.
Tamsui and Lover’s Bridge
With its iconic white cable design, Lover’s Bridge stretches across the Tamsui River, linking both sides of the waterfront and providing stunning sunset vistas. Couples often flock here at golden hour, when soft lights illuminate the pedestrian-only walkway against the evening sky, creating perfect settings for photos.
The bridge lies close to the Tamsui MRT station, allowing easy access from central Taipei. A leisurely 10-minute stroll across the bridge reveals sweeping river panoramas. At the entrance, street performers entertain visitors, and nearby food vendors serve up traditional snacks and drinks along the lively promenade.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf boasts a large wooden boardwalk that juts into the Tamsui River, lined with seafood restaurants offering water views and boat ride opportunities.
One highlight is the famous red suspension bridge, a frequent photo spot where visitors enjoy walking across for panoramic river mouth views.
The atmosphere comes alive in the evenings: sunsets reflect in the water, walkways light up, and restaurants stay open late for leisurely dining.
Local seafood dishes, such as grilled squid, fish soup, and steamed crab, are specialties at the wharf’s many eateries.
Fort San Domingo
Taiwan’s oldest European-style building, Fort San Domingo was built in 1628 by the Spanish using red brick, later falling under Dutch control. Now a museum, it showcases the region’s colonial history and features artifacts such as maps, weapons, and historic documents.
The striking red brick architecture contrasts with the surrounding gardens, which offer paths and benches for visitors to rest. English information guides are provided, and a small entrance fee applies.
Dadaocheng Wharf
Visiting Dadaocheng Wharf offers a perfect mix of Taipei’s history, culture, and riverside leisure. Once a bustling 19th-century trading port along the Tamsui River, it has been revitalized into a trendy destination where locals and travelers gather to enjoy scenic sunsets, cycling paths, and weekend markets.
The area blends old and new — you can explore Dihua Street’s historic architecture, traditional tea shops, and fabric stores before relaxing at the wharf’s modern cafés, container bars, and food stalls. In the evening, the wharf transforms into a lively social hub with live music, art events, and stunning views of the city skyline across the river. Whether you’re there for culture, photography, or a laid-back vibe, Dadaocheng Wharf captures the essence of Taipei’s evolving urban charm.
Tamsui River Strolls
Stretching for several kilometers along the western shore, the Tamsui River waterfront path features a wide, paved route. Both cyclists and pedestrians can enjoy pleasant river views as they travel the path.
Popular walking routes include:
- Tamsui MRT station to Fisherman’s Wharf (2.5 km)
- Lover’s Bridge to Fort San Domingo (1.8 km)
- Full waterfront loop (4.2 km)
The path is lined with rental bike stations every few hundred meters, making it convenient for cyclists of all fitness levels thanks to its flat terrain.
Sunset walks are especially popular between 5-7 PM. Throughout the path, visitors have access to rest areas, public bathrooms, and drinking fountains.
Family-Friendly Attractions and Unique Activities
Taipei features a variety of family-friendly activities, blending wildlife experiences, outdoor adventures, and cultural walks. The city’s attractions focus on engaging children with hands-on learning while providing opportunities for adults to explore Taiwan’s heritage.
Taipei Double Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour
Discover Taipei in comfort and style with a flexible bus tour that lets you plan your itinerary with ease. The service features two carefully designed routes encompassing 23 stops, each strategically located near some of Taipei’s most famous attractions. Hop on and off as you please to visit iconic landmarks such as Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Ximending, and a host of other must-see destinations, with each route offering a unique perspective of the city.
On board, enjoy complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring you stay connected throughout your journey. The buses are equipped with informative audio guides available in Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean, providing fascinating insights and stories about the history, culture, and scenery of Taipei as you travel.
Taipei Zoo
Recognized as one of Asia’s top zoological parks, Taipei Zoo houses more than 2,000 animals within its 165 hectares. The zoo features several themed sections such as the African Animal Area, Desert Animal Area, and the notable Giant Panda House.
Must-See Animals:
- Giant pandas Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan
- Formosan black bears
- Asian elephants
- Penguins at the Temperate Zone
Families can take advantage of the zoo’s gondola system, which connects to Maokong and offers breathtaking city views during the ride.
At the Children’s Zoo, kids love participating in interactive feeding sessions with farm animals. This area also provides educational programs focused on wildlife conservation and animal behavior.
Practical Information:
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Admission: Adults NT$60, Children NT$30
- Transportation: Take MRT to Taipei Zoo Station
Rock Climbing at Dragon Cave
Dragon Cave provides indoor rock climbing tailored for families with children aged 6 and above. Beginners receive professional instruction and all necessary safety equipment.
The walls feature routes of varying difficulty, from easy options to advanced challenges. Certified instructors lead families through safe climbing practices and teach the proper techniques.
Available Activities:
- Indoor bouldering walls
- Top-rope climbing courses
- Kids’ climbing programs
- Equipment rental services
Our top priority is safety: all participants receive mandatory harnesses and helmets. Children must be accompanied by adults at all times during climbing.
We offer birthday party packages and group discounts for families. Reservations in advance are recommended, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Songshan Cultural and Creative Park
Visiting Songshan Cultural and Creative Park in Taipei provides a unique mix of history, art, and innovation within a beautifully preserved setting. Originally a 1930s tobacco factory, the 6.6-hectare site has been transformed into a lively cultural hub that showcases Taiwan’s creative spirit. Visitors can enjoy design exhibitions, art galleries, pop-up markets, or relax in peaceful courtyards surrounded by historic architecture.
The park also features cultural events, film screenings, and workshops that celebrate local craftsmanship and modern design. Blending industrial charm with contemporary creativity, and conveniently located near Taipei 101 and the Xinyi District, Songshan Park is a must-visit for anyone interested in Taipei’s dynamic artistic identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions to visit in Taipei for first-time tourists?
For first-time visitors, Taipei offers a perfect blend of modern attractions and rich cultural experiences. Must-see landmarks include Taipei 101, the city’s iconic skyscraper with panoramic skyline views, and the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a grand historical site surrounded by gardens and ponds. Explore Longshan Temple, one of Taipei’s oldest temples, and stroll through Dihua Street in the Datong District for traditional shops and local crafts. Food lovers shouldn’t miss Shilin Night Market or Raohe Street Night Market for authentic Taiwanese street food. For nature and relaxation, visit Beitou Hot Springs and Yangmingshan National Park, or hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) for a breathtaking sunset view of the city. Don’t forget to stop by Ximending, Taipei’s lively shopping and entertainment district.
Can you recommend some hidden gems in Taipei for experienced travelers?
For experienced travelers seeking Taipei’s lesser-known treasures, venture beyond the usual sights to discover the city’s authentic charm. Explore Treasure Hill Artist Village, a quirky, semi-hidden artist community built into hillside homes, or wander through the Dihua Street area in Dadaocheng for vintage shops, tea houses, and traditional apothecaries. Escape the crowds at Qixing Mountain or the Maokong tea plantations, where you can sip oolong tea with sweeping views of the city. Visit the Taipei Grand Mosque and nearby Yongkang Street for a mix of culture and gourmet eats. For something truly unique, check out the Beitou Thermal Valley, Bitan Scenic Area, or the atmospheric Jiufen Old Street just outside the city. Art lovers will enjoy the Huashan 1914 Creative Park and Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, both hubs for local design and exhibitions.
Where can I find the best street food experiences in Taipei?
The best street food experiences in Taipei are found in its vibrant night markets, each offering unique local flavors and atmospheres. The iconic Shilin Night Market is a must for first-timers, famous for XXL fried chicken, oyster omelets, and bubble tea. For a more local vibe, Ningxia Night Market specializes in traditional Taiwanese snacks like taro balls and braised pork rice. Raohe Street Night Market, one of the oldest, is known for its pepper buns baked in clay ovens near the entrance. Foodies seeking variety should also explore Tonghua (Linjiang) Night Market and Lehua Night Market, where locals flock for stinky tofu, grilled squid, and mochi ice cream. For a modern twist, Huaxi Street Night Market (also called Snake Alley) offers both classic and adventurous eats. Each market captures a different side of Taipei’s street food culture, making them essential stops for any food lover.
What cultural and historical sites should not be missed in Taipei?
Taipei is rich in cultural and historical landmarks that reveal the city’s deep heritage and evolving identity. The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall stands as a grand symbol of Taiwan’s modern history, surrounded by Liberty Square’s serene gardens and traditional architecture. Nearby, the National Palace Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, spanning over 8,000 years. In the Wanhua District, Longshan Temple offers a glimpse into Taipei’s spiritual heart, while the adjacent Bopiliao Old Street preserves Qing Dynasty architecture and local stories. The Presidential Office Building and 228 Peace Memorial Park reflect Taiwan’s complex political past, while Ximending Red House, a century-old structure turned cultural hub, showcases the city’s creative revival. Together, these sites offer an immersive journey through Taipei’s artistic, religious, and historical evolution.
Are there any outdoor activities or natural sights near Taipei?
Yes — Taipei is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures, all easily accessible by public transport. Just north of the city, Yangmingshan National Park offers lush hiking trails, volcanic hot springs, and seasonal cherry blossoms. The Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) hike provides one of the best panoramic views of the Taipei skyline, especially at sunset. For a relaxing escape, head to Beitou Hot Springs, where you can soak in geothermal waters amid mountain scenery. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore the Pingxi area, famous for the Shifen Waterfall and sky lanterns in Pingxi Old Street, or visit the Maokong tea plantations, reachable by a scenic gondola ride. For coastal beauty, take a short train ride to Tamsui, where riverside sunsets and fresh seafood await. These destinations make Taipei a paradise for nature lovers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
How can one navigate Taipei’s night markets for the best experience?
To get the best experience navigating Taipei’s night markets, go with an open mind, an empty stomach, and a sense of adventure. Arrive early evening (around 6–7 p.m.) to avoid the biggest crowds but still enjoy the lively atmosphere. Start by walking the entire market once to scope out stalls before committing — many locals do this to find the freshest or most popular vendors. Bring small bills and coins, as most stalls are cash-only, and don’t be afraid to politely queue; long lines usually signal great food. Try a mix of iconic dishes like pepper buns, oyster omelets, stinky tofu, and bubble tea, but also sample local specialties unique to each market — for example, pork pepper buns at Raohe, taro desserts at Ningxia, and fried chicken at Shilin. Wear comfortable shoes, bring wet wipes, and pace yourself — portions are small but filling. Finally, engage with vendors; many love sharing stories behind their dishes, adding a personal touch to your culinary adventure.
Taipei Travel Tour Packages You Should Try
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