Choose from 52 Fun Things to Do in Taipei
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Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Hiking Trail)
Don’t be deterred by the name Elephant Mountain. A relatively easy climb takes you to the top of a hill that affords panoramic views of Taipei. Nestled among other rolling green hills, Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Hiking Trail) is indisputably the best place in Taipei to enjoy a sunset over the capital’s skyline.
The Basics
Evening tours of Taipei usually stop at Elephant Mountain, where—even if you only ascend halfway—you can still enjoy great views of Taipei. The trail is well-lit and supported by handrails. At the summit, there are six giant rocks where you can perch for an epic photograph with the skyline behind you, or walk a little past the rocks and you’ll find a far less crowded viewing platform.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Use plenty of insect repellent before you climb Elephant Mountain, because there are lots of mosquitoes at the top.
- For travelers of a moderate fitness level, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the top.
- This is a must-visit for the best views of the Taipei skyline.
- Take a bottle of water for the ascent. At the bottom of the trail, there is a water fountain where you can refill.
How to Get There
From central Taipei, take the red line on the MRT to Xiangshan station, which is the final stop. From there, the base of Elephant Mountain is clearly signposted. If you want to walk from Taipei 101, you can do so in about 15 minutes.
When to Get There
The best time to hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Hiking Trail) is in the late afternoon, so that you can enjoy daytime city views, see the sunset, and then watch Taipei burst into a thousand lights. During the weekend, the trail can be crowded, so try to visit during the week if possible.
The Four Beasts of Taipei
Elephant Mountain is one of the Four Beasts, a name that refers to the four hills on the outskirts of Taipei. If you’re an avid hiker, you can challenge yourself to do a full-day hike of all Four Beasts: From the mountain summit, a trail continues for a few hours and reveals a Buddhist garden and an entirely different part of the city.
Address: Lane 150, Songren Rd., Xinyi District, Taipei, Taiwan
From $ 30
Kaohsiung
Taiwan’s second largest city was once a gritty, industrial port town, but in recent years it has undergone a revitalization that makes it a must-see destination for inventive food, endless sun and some of the biggest night markets in Taiwan. The Kaisyuan Night Market—open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday—has 1,000 stalls serving an incredible variety of foods, from fried squid to papaya milk.
From its position at the southern end of the island, Kaohsiung also boasts beautiful year-round weather. Take a ferry ride to Cijin to spend a day at the beach and sample fresh seafood along the waterfront, or opt for a walk or bike ride around Lotus Lake in the Zuoying District of North Kaohsiung, which offers glimpses of eight temples. While there you can visit the Dragon Tiger Pagodas—enter through the dragon’s mouth to explore the pair of towers before leaving through the tiger’s mouth.
Practical Info
Kaohsiung sits on the southwest coast of Taiwan, about 225 miles from Taipei. International flights from around Asia arrive daily at Kaohsiung International Airport, and if you’re coming from Taipei, the Taiwan High Speed Rail line offers fast, 90-minute trips between the cities.
Address: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
From $ 483
Leofoo Village Theme Park
The Leofoo Village Theme Park is a combined amusement park and safari experience located in Guanxi Town in Hsinchu County, Taiwan.
The park is divided into four themed areas, including African Safari, Wild West, South Pacific, and Arabian Kingdom. There are a number of roller coasters, including a twist-and-turn ride, an inverted shuttle coaster, and a Ushaped spiral coaster that makes 360 degree turns and drops at speeds of more than 120kph. The park also features various water rides, plus magic carpets and the Little Rattler, themed on an old mining railway.
The African Safari zone is the only safari park in Taiwan where more than 70 species and around a thousand wild animals can be seen. Visitors can tour the area by sedan, bus, or the Nairobi Express steam train. The Monkey Trail in this zone covers an area of more than two acres and features almost 30 species of rare and protected primates, such as baboons and orangutans.
Practical Info
The Leofoo Village Theme Park can be easily reached by car, with free parking available on-site. If arriving by public transport, alight at Chungli Station and switch to a Hsinchu bus to reach the park.
Address: No.60 Gongzigou, Guanxi, Taiwan
Hours: 9am-5pm (9am-8am July & August)
Admission: Adult: TWD 999 / Student (over 12): TWD 899 / Children: TWD 699
From $ 39
Daan Forest Park
Considered by some to be the Central or Hyde Park of Taipei, this brilliant green oasis tucked between narrow city streets offers locals and travelers alike a quick escape route from the urban hustle.
The park, which opened in 1994, is a hub for outdoor activities. The grounds include several pavilions where local acts put on public performances, as well as walking paths that weave between towering palm trees. The running loop is thick with recreational athletes in the early morning hours, while the amphitheater, playground and skating rink offer plenty of alternatives for travelers looking to connect with nature without leaving the city.
Practical Info
Travelers can access the park via the Taipei Metro Daan Park Station near the park’s north end. It is also accessible via the Daan Station.
Address: Xinsheng South Road, Daan District, Taipei, Taiwan
From $ 25
Fo Guang Shan Monastery
As one of the largest Buddhist temples in Taiwan, Fo Guang Shan Monastery is a must-see destination for first-time visitors. Home to a 100-meter (328-foot) statue of a golden Buddha, as well as 500 smaller versions of the religious deity, the complex promises epic photographs and scenic views of the nearby Gaoping River.
The Basics
The rural location of Fo Guang Shan Monastery and the unreliable nature of the public transport servicing the area means that many travelers opt to visit the monastery as part of a multi-day Taiwan tour. Typically, tours combine the Buddhist complex with visits to the dispersed Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, Kenting National Park, and the East Coast National Scenic Area. Plus, opting for a multi-day tour means that you’ll skip the hassle of arranging accommodations, transfers, and activities.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you’re visiting in summer, bring an umbrella and a hat as heat protection.
- This is a must-see for travelers interested in Buddhist architecture and history.
- There are coffee shops and vending machines at the complex.
How to Get There
Fo Guang Shan Monastery, located off of Xingtian Road, is accessible by bus from Kaohsiung Railway Station via the direct bus to Fo Guang Shan Monastery. The shrine is also accessible via train; from Jiuquatang, take a taxi or local bus.
When to Get There
In summer, it’s best to arrive at the monastery in the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Plus, arriving later means that you’ll get to catch the sunset and see more than 14,800 lanterns begin to illuminate.
The Fo Guang Shan Movement
Travelers assume that all Buddhist monuments have stood for hundreds of years, and many are surprised to discover that the Fo Guang Shan Monastery is only 50 years old. The Chinese-Buddhist movement, which counts as its headquarters the monastery, is founded in humanistic teachings and has garnered followers throughout the world.
Address: No.153, Xingtian Rd., Kaohsiung 84049, Taiwan
From $ 582
Maokong Gondola
The 25-minute, 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) journey on the Maokong Gondola takes visitors from Taipei Zoo up to Mount Maokong. You can simply take the gondola and enjoy the stunning views, or you can visit the many attractions along the gondola route—including the zoo, temples, shrines, tea plantations, teahouses, and nature walks and hikes.
The Basics
Built in 2007 and upgraded in 2010, Maokong Gondola features 147 cabins, of which 31 are “crystal cabins” (also called Eyes of Maokong Gondola) with reinforced glass bottoms. The gondola makes four stops in total: Taipei City Zoo Station, Taipei City Zoo South Station, Zhinan Temple Station, and Maokong Station.
You can visit the gondola independently and purchase tickets based on the number of stations between which you are traveling. If you have a particular interest in tea or Taiwanese culture, you can opt for an evening, full-day, or multi-day tour featuring a visit to Maokong, a ride on the gondola, and visits to a number of teahouses and tea plantations, or other cultural attractions like one of Taipei’s many night markets.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Maokong Gondola is lovely for all visitors to Taipei, especially first-timers.
- Regular gondola cabins can hold eight passengers; crystal cabins can hold only five.
- The gondolas are not air-conditioned.
- In the event of thunderstorms or inclement weather, the gondola stops running and buses are used to transport passengers.
- The gondola stations and cabins are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but not all attractions near a station may be accessible.
How to Get There
Maokong Gondola is located in Taipei’s Wenshan district. Take the MRT’s Brown Line to the terminus, Taipei Zoo; the gondola is about a 10-minute walk from the MRT station. A number of city buses also stop near the gondola.
When to Get There
Maokong Gondola is open Tuesday through Sunday; check the website for hours of operation. Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and the heat, especially if you’re planning on hiking as well. Sunset is a beautiful time to ride the gondola.
Attractions Along the Route
The gondola’s first two stops are at the Taipei Zoo, where there is also a dancing water fountain with performances every half hour. At Zhinan Temple Station, top attractions include Zhinan Temple, Zhinan Scenic Spot, and Chen Yan-Chun Art Gallery. The final stop, Maokong Station, features the Tianen, Zhangshan, and San Xuan temples as well as a tea museum and tea promotion center plus numerous teahouses and restaurants. More active visitors can pick up a hiking map at this station. There are many trails, ranging from easy to very difficult, and lasting from about 30 minutes to several hours round-trip. Popular hikes include the Camphor Tree Trail, the Enlightenment Trail, and the hike to Yinhe Cave.
Address: Taiwan
From $ 100
National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine
Taipei’s National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shine honors the men and women who died fighting on behalf of Taiwan in the second Sino-Japanese War, Chinese Civil War and both Taiwan Cross-Strait Crises among others. Around 390,000 names are listed on wooden plaques throughout the complex. The site has several structures, including a separate shrine for both military and civilian martyrs and a drum tower used during special rites ceremonies. Both the civilian and military martyrs’ shrines display profiles of some of the martyrs enshrined there and information about the conflicts.
The shrine was completed in 1969 and was inspired by the Hall of Supreme Harmony in Beijing. Plan your visit on the hour mark to witness the changing of the guard, an elaborate ritual similar to that seen at Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. Memorial rites take place on March 29 and September 3 each year when the president and other government leaders come to pay their respects.
The shrine was completed in 1969 and was inspired by the Hall of Supreme Harmony in Beijing. Plan your visit on the hour mark to witness the changing of the guard, an elaborate ritual similar to that seen at Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. Memorial rites take place on March 29 and September 3 each year when the president and other government leaders come to pay their respects.
Address: Taiwan
From $ 44
Hualien
Hualien sits between the Pacific Ocean and the Central Mountain Range on the eastern side of Taiwan, making it one of the most scenic spots in the country. With its pleasant climate and stunning views, international visitors flock to Hualien, where there’s plenty in the way of accommodation and other amenities – not to mention the famous Taroko Gorge just a few miles away.
Hualien is Taiwan's biggest county and much of it is made up of some of Mother Nature’s best work. From the impressive gorges at Taroko National Park to the striking natural landscapes of the East Coast National Scenic Area, visitors to the Hualien area will find themselves among some truly magnificent scenes of nature.
With its towering peaks and verdant valleys, plus its sweeping ocean views and friendly locals, Hualien has understandably become one of Taiwan's must-see travel destinations for both domestic and international visitors alike.
Practical Info
There are frequent trains from Taipei, with the journey taking anything from two to five hours, depending on the train type. For the fast train, hop on the Taroko Express and be sure to sit on the left-hand side of the carriage to ensure the best views of the coast along the way. On arrival in Hualien, the Visitor Information Center is located just in front of Hualien Station.
Address: Taiwan
From $ 45
Museum of Contemporary Art
Recognized as the first museum in Taipei, the Museum of Contemporary Art is housed in the former City Hall and displays work from local and international artists. No permanent exhibitions exist in this Mecca for modern art (which, ironically, is stationed in an outdated building), so travelers’ experience hinges on collections displayed at any given time. MOCA, as it’s referred to by locals, offers free Wi-Fi, so visitors can use phones for free guided audio tours. A popular café connected to the museum is a perfect spot for grabbing an afternoon snack before heading back out on the town.
Practical Info
The museum is located at No. 39, Chang’an West Road in the Datong District. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Address: No. 39, Chang’an West Road, Taipei, Taiwan
Hours: Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Admission: General Admission: NT$50
From $ 4
Beitou Hot Springs
Located just 30 minutes north of central Taipei, Beitou is a mountainous area full of natural hot springs and supporting spas, hotels, teahouses, and parks. It’s a popular destination for locals and visitors looking to escape the city and enjoy a soak in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush forests and beautiful scenery.
The Basics
The Japanese first developed Beitou into a resort destination during their occupation of Taiwan. Today Beitou features public hot spring pools as well as a number of private hot spring resorts and hotels. The public pools offer the best value, though they are also the most crowded. Generally mixed-gender and requiring swimsuits, public hot springs typically have several pools of varying temperature, from ice cold to extremely hot, and patrons often move between different pools during their visit.
Beitou is easy to visit independently. If you have an interest in hot spring culture and history, you can join a tour that also includes the Beitou Hot Spring Museum as well as Yangmingshan National Park, which is full of geothermal features. Or choose a tour that includes other top Taipei attractions such as Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, or the National Palace Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Each location has different rules and etiquette, such as whether the pools are segregated by gender and whether swimsuits are required.
- Bring a change of clothing and a bag for wet swimsuits, plus towels for the public hot springs.
- Photography is not allowed in the pool areas.
- Individuals with health issues, such as high blood pressure and heart problems, should not use the hot springs.
How to Get There
Beitou is north of central Taipei. Take the MRT’s Red Line to Beitou Station and transfer to the Pink Line for one stop; disembark at Xinbeitou Station, then walk five minutes to the hot springs. You can also take city bus 216, 218, 266, or S22 to the Beitou Park stop.
When to Get There
The hot springs in Beitou are open year-round. The public hot springs tend to be open-air, and you may find it more pleasant soaking in the hot springs when the weather is cooler. Public hot springs also tend to be open for set intervals, with cleanings in between; check online for the current schedule.
Thermal Valley
One of the most famous attractions in Beitou, Thermal Valley—also known as Hell Valley—is a natural sulfur hot spring filled with steaming greenish-blue water. This spring is a source of water that feeds all the hot springs in Beitou, and water temperatures here can reach 194°F (90°C)—too hot for bathing. Railings prevent visitors from touching the water, but it’s definitely a worthwhile sight to see.
Address: Wenquan Street, Taipei, Taiwan
Admission: Varies
From $ 52
Longshan Temple
The oldest temple in Taiwan, Mengjia Longshan Temple was built in 1738 by immigrants from Fujian, China. The ornate and exquisite structure has been damaged by war and natural disasters, but also rebuilt, expanded, and improved over the years. Today is remains a center of religious life and a bastion of local culture in Taipei.
The Basics
Considered one of the three great temples of Taipei, Longshan Temple is dedicated to Guanyin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. However, as is typical with temples in Taiwan, it actually houses hundreds of Buddhist, Taoist, and Chinese folk deities, including Mazu, goddess of the sea. Don’t miss the only pair of bronze dragon columns in Taipei; intricate and ornate decorations on the doors, walls, and roofs; and elaborate carvings out of stone and wood.
Many Taipei sightseeing tours stop at Longshan Temple as well as other attractions that may include nearby Bopiliao Ancient Street or Huaxi Night Market, Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, and the National Palace Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Longshan Temple is a must-see for those with an interest in history, architecture, and religion.
- This is an active place of worship, so please be respectful.
- The temple is free to enter but donations are accepted.
- Due to very thick crowds and stairs to some areas, the temple is not ideal for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Longshan Temple is located in Taipei’s Wanhua district. By MRT, take the Blue Line to Longshan Temple (Exit 1). By train, take the local service to Wanhua Station and walk north to the temple. A number of buses also stop nearby.
When to Get There
The temple is open daily until 10pm throughout the year. To hear the chanting of monks and gathered worshippers, visit around 6am, 8am, or 5pm, though it’s also worthwhile visiting at night to see the temple lit up.
Festivals and Gatherings at Longshan Temple
The temple holds a number of festivals and cultural activities a year. Guanyin’s birthday is a popular celebration. On the 1st and 15th of each month, worshippers gather to celebrate the sea goddess, Mazu, and the popular lantern lighting ceremony occurs on the eve of the Chinese New Year.
Address: Taipei, Taiwan
Admission: Free
From $ 31
Alishan National Scenic Area
Watching the sunrise over the Alishan National Scenic Area feels like being in a dream—thick white clouds cover the valley below and towering mountaintops look like tiny islands in an endless ocean. It’s worth visiting during the day too, with treetop boardwalks, forests, and temples making for incredible photos.
The Basics
A visit to the Alishan National Scenic Area is one of the main attractions of central Taiwan and a popular day trip destination from Chiayi or Taichung. Multi-day tours from Taipei often combine a tour of Alishan with regional sights, such as Sun Moon Lake and Puli.
To make the most of your visit, start early and ride the historic Alishan Forest Railway to Chushan to watch the sunrise. Additional highlights include a hike through the forests to the Sister Ponds and the Sacred Tree, the Giant Tree Plank Trail boardwalk, and the Shoujhen Temple, the area’s largest temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an admission fee to enter the Alishan National Scenic Area.
- Pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing (it can be chilly up in the mountains even in summer), mosquito repellent, and a raincoat.
- Tickets for the Alishan Forest Train must be booked in advance and can sell out weeks in advance during peak season (July–August).
- Many viewing areas are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Alishan National Scenic Area is in Chiayi County in central Taiwan. Take a high-speed rail train from Taipei to Chiayi. Then, take a bus, taxi, or the famous Alishan Forest Railway (one departure daily) to Fenqihu, where direct buses run to Alishan. From Alishan Train Station, various routes of the Alishan Forest Railway run into the park, including the sunrise train to Chushan (book your tickets the day before (times are announced daily).
When to Get There
It’s possible to visit the Alishan National Scenic Area year-round. Summer (July–August) is the busiest season, when it’s worth booking train tickets, tours, and accommodation well in advance. Autumn (September–November) is a particularly enchanting time to visit, when the multihued trees fill the landscapes with color.
Alishan Tea
Alishan’s misty high-altitude mountains provide the perfect terrain for growing Oolong tea, and the region is home to numerous tea plantations. The tea, which is irrigated using pure mountain spring water and harvested by hand, is renowned for its sweet, floral flavor and being rich in antioxidants. Alishan Tea is sold worldwide, and many teahouses and restaurants in the Alishan area can offer you a freshly brewed cup to sample.
Address: Taiwan
From $ 423
Huaxi Street Night Market
Established in 1951, Huaxi Street Night Market was the first night market in Taiwan built specifically for tourists. Despite being known as Snake Alley for the various serpent delicacies and drinks sold here, you can find more than just snake—the food stalls, restaurants, and shops sell an array of popular Taiwanese foods and other goods.
The Basics
Located near Longshan Temple, a traditional red Chinese gate marks the entrance to the covered marketplace, which stretches for about 1,300 feet (400 meters). Inside, festive red lanterns shine on small shops selling a variety of goods, as well as food stalls and restaurants selling traditional and exotic snacks and delicacies. For those who dare, this is the place try snake in different forms—snake soup and shots of snake blood are the most popular options. If you’re not feeling that ambitious, you can still try local favorites like Danzai noodles, oyster omelets, and Tainan rice cakes.
While you can stroll the market independently, Taipei night tours offer a more informative introduction to local tastes and treats.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Huaxi Street Night Market is a must for foodies.
- The market is covered so it’s a good option when it’s raining.
- Don’t forget to bring cash, as many small vendors don’t accept anything else.
- This area was formerly a red-light district and there are still a number of massage parlors in operation, so it may not be suitable for young children.
How to Get There
Huaxi Street Night Market is located in Taipei’s Wanhua district, just west of Longshan Temple. By MRT, take the Blue Line to Longshan Temple (Exit 1). A number of buses also stop near the market and temple.
When to Get There
Huaxi Street Night Market is open 4pm until midnight daily. To see the market at its liveliest, visit later in the evening or night.
Nearby Night Markets
There are several other night markets close to Huaxi Street Night Market, namely on Guangzhou, Wuzhou, and Xichang streets. All of these markets recently organized into the large Monga Night Market, which has become a popular destination for visitors—particularly foodies.
Address: Taiwan
From $ 42
Kenting National Park
White sandy beaches and swaying palms are perhaps not the first things that come to mind when you think of Taiwan, but that’s exactly what you’ll find in the Kenting National Park. This natural treasure has some of the best surf beaches in the region, as well as diving, jet-skiing and lots of other seaside fun.
The park’s beautiful scenic landscapes, with dramatic rocky outcrops, lush jungles and cliffs offering outstanding views over the sea and shoreline, make this a popular hiking destination.
Visit traditional fishing villages during the day and at night enjoy the numerous dining options and night markets in the area’s towns.
Practical Info
Kenting National Park forms the southern tip of the island of Taiwan and can be reached by high-speed rail from Taipei in just 2.5 hours. There is a range of accommodation options from camping to luxury resorts. Some beaches are privately run and charge admission.
Address: Taiwan
Admission: Free
From $ 207
Botanical Gardens
Established in 1921 during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, the Taipei Botanical Gardens displays more than 2,000 species of plants throughout its 17 garden districts and 20 acres (8 hectares). Walking paths take visitors past nine ponds and through two buildings, both registered historic sites. The first, built in 1888 was once a Qing-dynasty administrative building that currently houses the National Museum of History, and the other currently serves as a herbarium.
Apart from the mundane gardens -- bamboo, succulents, ferns and the like -- the Botanical Gardens maintains some interesting themed areas as well. Learn about plants used for daily life in the Economic Crops Garden, and see the hundreds of varieties of plants mentioned in ancient Chinese literature, like Journey to the West, in the Chinese Classical Literature Botanical Garden. Be sure to stop by the Sensory Garden, a space filled with plants you can touch and smell.
You might assume spring is the best time for a visit, but the botanists at the Botanical Gardens have carefully curated plants to ensure a year-round show of color.
Apart from the mundane gardens -- bamboo, succulents, ferns and the like -- the Botanical Gardens maintains some interesting themed areas as well. Learn about plants used for daily life in the Economic Crops Garden, and see the hundreds of varieties of plants mentioned in ancient Chinese literature, like Journey to the West, in the Chinese Classical Literature Botanical Garden. Be sure to stop by the Sensory Garden, a space filled with plants you can touch and smell.
You might assume spring is the best time for a visit, but the botanists at the Botanical Gardens have carefully curated plants to ensure a year-round show of color.
Address: NO.53, Nan-Hai Road, Taipei 10066, Taiwan
Hours: Daily 4:00am - 10:00pm
From $ 129
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is one of the most prominent landmarks and popular attractions in Taipei, and sees thousands of visitors daily. Learn about the life of Chiang Kai-Shek and the history of Taiwan inside this impressive building set within a 62-acre (25-hectare) memorial park with gardens, pools, and walkways.
The Basics
The white-marble memorial hall is topped with a roof of blue tile against a red background—the colors of Taiwan’s flag. Inside is a museum with exhibits chronicling Chiang Kai-Shek’s life. The National Theater and National Concert Hall are also located within the memorial park grounds. Don’t miss the impressive archway entrance, 98 feet (30 meters) tall and 262 feet (80 meters) wide.
The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall features on most sightseeing tours of Taipei. Choose a half-day or full-day tour, which typically also includes sights such as Taipei 101 and the National Palace Museum. Visit on a hop-on hop-off bus for the most flexibility, or experience Taipei like a local and join a bicycle, walking, and MRT tour of the city. You can also visit the hall and other top Taipei sights as part of a shore excursion from Keelung.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is a must-visit for those with an interest in Taiwan’s history.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to take photos of the stunning memorial hall, entry, and park.
- Guided tours are available in Mandarin, English, and Japanese. Book ahead for English and Japanese tours.
- The 89 steps leading to the memorial hall are steep and high. There is an elevator too, as well as an entrance on the ground floor next to the stairs.
How to Get There
The memorial hall is located in Taipei’s Zhongzheng district. By MRT, take the Red Line to Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Station. You can also take the Taipei Double-Decker bus to the Xinyi and Linsen intersection stop.
When to Get There
The memorial hall is open year-round except for Chinese New Year’s Eve and Day. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat. A popular event is the Changing of the Guard, which happens every hour on the hour from 9am to 5pm; get there a few minutes early to secure a good spot.
Exhibition Halls
On the memorial hall’s first floor are several permanent exhibits related to Chiang Kai-Shek, and his family life, ascent to power, time as a wartime leader of China, move from China to Taiwan, and presidency in Taiwan. His office, as well as uniforms, medals, and even some of his cars, are also on display. The exhibition halls also host temporary shows on occasion, some of which charge an admission fee.
Address: 21 Zhonghan South Road, Taipei 10048, Taiwan
Admission: Free
From $ 19
Ningxia Night Market
Located in Datong, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Taipei, the Ningxia Night Market is a small but energetic market filled with tasty local food, welcoming street vendors, and relatively tame crowds. It’s the perfect place to spend the evening slipping between brightly lit stands sampling “little eats” like salty chicken, dry tofu and muachi. Locals say the longer the line the longer the tradition—meaning vendors with queues snaking into the streets have likely been around the longest. It’s best to arrive with an empty belly and a full wallet. While the traditional street food is definitely on the affordable side, a huge variety and flavors, scents and dishes mean even these “little eats” can become a big meal.
Practical Info
The market is located near Taipei Circle along Ningxia Road in the Datong area of the city.
Address: Ningxia Road, Taipei, Taiwan
From $ 30
Jiufen Village
Located in northeast Taiwan, the mountainside village of Jiufen was once the gold mining center of Taiwan. Today it’s a popular tourist destination known for its quaint streets and alleyways, traditional teahouses, myriad food stalls and souvenir shops, and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
The Basics
Rich with culture and history, Jiufen is one of the most popular day trips from Taipei. Most visitors head straight to Jiufen Old Street, which winds through most of the village and is full of shops, cafés, and traditional food stalls. Must-try Jiufen dishes include taro balls, glutinous rice cakes, and peanut ice cream rolls. Wash down these treats with a cup of tea from one of the many teahouses in town. Other top attractions include Shengping Theater, Taiyang Co. Ruifang, Songde Park, and Wufan Tunnel. More active visitors may want to set their sights on hiking Mount Jilong.
Guided full-day tours from Taipei typically include other villages and attractions such as Pingxi, Jinguashi, Shifen, or Yehliu National Geopark. Alternatively, opt for a biking tour of Jiufen and nearby areas like Houtong.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jiufen is ideal for travelers interested in history, culture, and shopping.
- Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes. There are a lot of stairs and cobblestone streets in Jiufen.
- Bring sun protection, rain protection, and water if visiting in summer, which is also the wet season.
- Full-day tours from Taipei can last upwards of eight or nine hours.
How to Get There
Jiufen is located in northeast Taiwan, near Keelung. The easiest way to visit Jiufen is on a guided tour. Otherwise, take the train from Taipei to Ruifang Station and transfer to the Keelung bus; the ride is about 15 minutes. Or take the MRT to Zhongxiao Fuxing (Exit 2) and take bus 1062 for about 90 minutes to Jiufen. There is also a shuttle bus that leaves from Ximen in the morning and returns in the evening.
When to Get There
Jiufen is visitable year-round, though its popularity makes it extremely crowded on weekends and public holidays. Go during the week for smaller throngs. Jiufen is at its most scenic at and after sunset, when the village is alight with a sea of red lanterns.
Movie Setting and Inspiration
Jiufen has been the setting for several well-known films. It was featured in 1989’s Taiwanese historical drama A City of Sadness, which won the Golden Lion Award at the Venice Film Festival that year. It is also said to have greatly influenced Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli’s acclaimed Spirited Away. Fans of the movie have flocked to Jiufen—and in particular A-Mei Teahouse, said to be the inspiration for the bathhouse in the movie.
Address: Jiufen, Taiwan
From $ 33
Dihua Street
After you’ve seen the Taipei 101 and shopped the city’s mega malls, get a sense of what Taipei was like decades ago with a visit to Dihua Street. The street that once served as Taipei’s major commercial center during the late Qing Dynasty still caters to more traditional tastes.
You won’t find any souvenirs or trinkets here, but you will see a wide range of traditional Chinese goods, like tea, medicinal herbs, dried mushrooms and seafood, beans, rice and sweets, and many locals coming to shop. Dihua Street gets particularly busy in the days leading up to Chinese New Year when families come to stock up on traditional holiday foods. During this time, the street becomes a solid wall of people haggling for their ingredients.
If you’d like to sample some traditional Taiwanese foods, Dihua Street might be a good option. Most of the shopkeepers don’t speak English, but they’ll happily let you sample their products. You can always select dishes by looking around at what those around you are eating and simply point.
You won’t find any souvenirs or trinkets here, but you will see a wide range of traditional Chinese goods, like tea, medicinal herbs, dried mushrooms and seafood, beans, rice and sweets, and many locals coming to shop. Dihua Street gets particularly busy in the days leading up to Chinese New Year when families come to stock up on traditional holiday foods. During this time, the street becomes a solid wall of people haggling for their ingredients.
If you’d like to sample some traditional Taiwanese foods, Dihua Street might be a good option. Most of the shopkeepers don’t speak English, but they’ll happily let you sample their products. You can always select dishes by looking around at what those around you are eating and simply point.
Address: Taiwan
From $ 23
Guangxing Paper Mill
Travelers looking for a chance to experience “hands-on” Taipei need look no further than Guangxing Paper Mill. Located in the heart of Puli, visitors to this local gem can tour the history factory and learn about its unique process of papermaking. And while the tour alone may sound
less than gripping, for a small fee travelers can handcraft an item of their choice—like paper lamps, lanterns and fans—alongside local artisans, resulting in a truly unique experience.
Practical Info
The mill is located at 310 Tieshan Road in Puli Township. It’s easy to find a tour that stops at Guangxing Paper Mill and a visit to the factory is free. Travelers who want to learn the art of paper-making should allot at least two hours for the process.
Address: 310 Tieshan Road, Puli, Taipei, Taiwan
Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
From $ 228