Things to do in Taipei
If it’s your first time in Taiwan, chances are Taipei is already on your itinerary. The capital is possibly best known for its iconic Taipei 101 building and bustling night markets that fill the streets. But of course, it’s not just another metropolis of skyscrapers.
We’ve done the legwork and sieved out 22 best things to do in Taipei. Yes, we’ve included must-visit attractions like Jiufen and sky lanterns at Pingxi, but we’ve also included lesser-known ones like a container market and former prison dormitory. Read on to find out more:
Table of Contents
- Things to do in Taipei
- 1. Search for unique Starbucks stores with killer views
- 2. Visit cute cafes in a former prison at Rongjin Gorgeous Time
- 3. Croon to Mandopop over the years at the Taipei Music Center
- 4. Tour Taipei on an electric skateboard
- 5. Feast at food trucks at Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market
- 6. Snap close up photos of planes at Airplane Lane
- 7. Thrift for branded vintage clothes at Zhongshan District
- 8. Dine on a hillside overlooking Taipei at Wonder.land
- 9. Play with hundreds of stray cats at Houtong Cat Village
- 10. Dine at the first Din Tai Fung restaurant in the world
- 11. Visit the Santorini of Taiwan at Jiufen Old Street
- 12. Visit a gold mine at the New Taipei Gold Museum
- 13. Be mesmerised by the Golden Waterfall
- 14. Marvel at the Yin Yang Sea
- 15. Climb Mount Keelung
- 16. Sip tea at sunset at Mao Kong Shan
- 17. Relive history at Lungshan Temple
- 18. Watch sky lanterns floating above Shifen Old Street
- 19. See Taiwan’s Niagara Falls at Shifen Waterfall
- 20. Make a wish at Pingxi Station
- 21. Explore hiking trails at Yangmingshan National Park
- 22. Visit Michelin-rated food stalls at lesser-known night markets
- Bonus: Boutique accommodations in Taipei
- 1. Roaders Plus Hotel
- 2. TW Hostel
- 3. CityInn Hotel
- 4. Check Inn Hotel
- Start your adventure in Taipei
1. Search for unique Starbucks stores with killer views
It’s only natural that when you’re in Taiwan, you’d want to drink copious cups of bubble tea. After all, boba did originate here, so totes get the puzzled looks as to why we’ve added Starbucks to a list of things to do. But hear us out: Taipei has a couple of unique Starbucks outlets that are worth checking out. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that these also come with killer views.
The first one is within Taipei 101, and no, it’s not the easily accessible one on the ground floor. It’s up on the 35th floor of the office building. You can’t just walk in, however. Call at least a day in advance and they’ll reserve a spot for you. Only then will you be given access to the office lift that’ll take you up. Run to get a seat by the window; you’ll be greeted with a stunning panorama of Taipei.
Do note that since this is located in the business side of Taipei 101, you’ll need to dress the part for entry. You won’t need a full suit and tie, but flip flops and tank tops are no go. At the very least, smart casual will be a safe choice.
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Image credit: stefanie Lin (林奕青) via Google Maps
The other Starbucks to check out will probably have less of a crowd and is easier to access. Located at Fulong Beach, this outlet has large windows that face the beach and open sea. If you plan your trip for summer, you’ll even be able to catch sand sculptors building impressive structures right in front of you.
2. Visit cute cafes in a former prison at Rongjin Gorgeous Time
Original prison wall from the Qing Dynasty.
Image credit: @rongjin167 via Instagram
Much like the Yellow Ribbon Project believes in second chances for former prisoners, the Rongjin Gorgeous Time is breathing new life into former prison quarters. The building has been around since the Qing Dynasty in 1896, first to house inmates then public officials in the 1950s.
Some walls have been knocked down and replaced with glass, but the original structure of the prison remains.
Image credit: @rongjin167 via Instagram
Today, it’s been converted into a small retail building where you can shop for trinkets or stop by a cafe for a drink and a bite. Much of the original structures have been preserved, such as the original prison wall and Japanese-influenced architecture. You can find out more about the history of the place at the museum on the first floor.
3. Croon to Mandopop over the years at the Taipei Music Center
Jay Chou, S.H.E, and Mayday. These names will no doubt be familiar to those of us who frequent karaoke joints. Now, you can find out more about the origins of popular Taiwanese singers and bands at the Taipei Music Center.
Image credit: Taipei Music Center
In an exhibit that spans 3 floors, you’ll trace the history of Taiwanese music from as early as the 1930s. See if you can spot household names like Eric Chou and Show Lo, and even legends from your parents’ generation like Teresa Teng and Jacky Cheung. Their stories and music are displayed in interactive displays that are also IG-worthy photo opps.
AR concert hall.
Image credit: Taipei Music Center
Even if you’re not a huge fan of Mandopop, the AR concert experience might just change all that. It’ll feel like you’re in the VIP section of musical productions by big names like Hebe Tien and JJ Lin once you step into the concert hall and see their images projected onto 360-degree screens.
4. Tour Taipei on an electric skateboard
Image credit: Metasurf
Just about any city in the world offers tours on bikes and segways. But Taipei has something a little different – electric skateboards. Before you knock it off as a “young person thing”, you might be surprised that learning how to ride an electric skateboard is much easier than learning to ride a bicycle.
Image credit: @jenny.0123 via Instagram
You’ll get the basics – kick off, balance, and ride – down in a matter of minutes. Then the rest of the 2 hours will have you coursing through the city to check out touristy sights. All equipment, such as the board, helmet, and protective pads will be provided.
Book the 2-hour electric skateboard tour.
5. Feast at food trucks at Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market
You can’t really call yourself a Singaporean if you’re not a fan of night markets. To ensure your red passport doesn’t get revoked even in Taipei, make your way to the Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market.
Image credit: Let’s Play TW
Shipping containers have been converted into shops that sell clothing and knick knacks. There’s also no shortage of cafes here, many of which sell an assortment of rainbow-coloured beverages and snacks.
Image adapted from: Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market Facebook
Our recommendation: take a walk around and grab small bites like grilled seafood and veggies from Yakitori House 29 and slices of pizza hot from the oven at Pizza Lab. Once you’ve loaded up on food, get a seat by the pier to enjoy the gentle breeze and calming views of the Tamsui River.
Address: No. 5, Minsheng West Road, Shuimen, Datong District, Taipei, Taiwan 103
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 4pm-10pm | Sat-Sun 12pm-10pm
Contact: +886 2 6605 7338
6. Snap close up photos of planes at Airplane Lane
Image credit: @sozoobee via Instagram
Look up in the sky – it’s not a bird, and it’s definitely not Superman. But that is a plane swooping over your head at Binjiang Street just outside Taipei Songshan Airport. Ready your camera because this will be a Kodak moment you’re not going to get anywhere else in Taiwan.
Image credit: @yuming0411 via Instagram
The publicly accessible road passes by Taiwan’s secondary airport that mainly serves domestic flights. You’ll easily spot low-flying planes as they prepare to touch down on the nearby runway. Try looking out for planes from airlines like Eva Air and All Nippon Airways – they often have limited edition livery featuring Pokemon and Sanrio characters.
Getting there: Make your way to Songjiang Nanjing Station then take the Songjiang Xinsheng Main Line to Taipei Fish Market bus stop. Binjiang Street is a 5-minute walk northwards.
Address: Lane 180, Binjiang Street, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491
7. Thrift for branded vintage clothes at Zhongshan District
Yes, wholesale garment market Wufenpu still exists in Taipei. But for a more sustainable option to retail therapy, thrifting at Zhongshan District might be your best bet. Right at Exit 4 of Zhongshan Metro Station are a number of second-hand clothing stores.
Image credit: A Prank Dolly
You won’t find a mish mash of outdated fast fashion here, however. Many of these stores source for the good stuff like vintage streetwear from brands such as Nike, Ralph Lauren, and Levi’s.
Image credit: Banana Cats
Stores that come highly recommended by local thrifters include A Prank Dolly and Banana Cats. You’ll be able to get your hands on authentic, vintage sukajan (Japanese bomber jackets), as well as upcycled bags and accessories from the likes of Dior, Burberry, and Sisley.
Getting there: Walk north from Exit 4 of Zhongshan Metro Station. You’ll find vintage clothing stores on Lanes 33-47.
8. Dine on a hillside overlooking Taipei at Wonder.land
If this isn’t your first rodeo in Taipei, you’ll already know that climbing up Mount Elephant or Taipei 101 will afford you gorgeous views of the city. We’ll let you in on a secret: Wonder.land is a restaurant on Mount Yangmingshan you can visit for banging vistas too.
Image credit: Alex青鳥（鶄）via Google Maps
You’ll need to spend a minimum of TWD500/pax (~S$21.75) to enjoy the scenery. Thankfully, that’s easily done if you dine here. You can fill up on Thai-Western dishes like pad thai (TWD320, ~S$13.92) or steak linguine (TWD480, ~S$20.88) at the indoor restaurant, then move out to the outdoor area to enjoy the day beds and loungers.
You can get a whole hotpot meal (TWD1,080, ~S$46.95) here as well.
Image credit: Ling via Google Maps
Pro tip: There’s a dining limit of 2 hours per party. Plan to come just as the resto opens at 5pm on weekdays, which will almost guarantee you a front-row seat at the daybeds. You’ll get to see Taipei City change from day to night within your dining time.
Address: No. 11 Lane 11, Section 2, Yangde Boulevard, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 5pm-12am | Sat-Sun 3pm-2am
Contact: +886 2 2831 9111
9. Play with hundreds of stray cats at Houtong Cat Village
Purr-adise is a lot closer than you think. In fact, it’s just an hour away from Taipei Main Station at Houtong Cat Village, home to hundreds of stray kitties. Houtong used to be a coal mining village before this place was overrun by cats. Then a resident started posting about the cats on the internet in 2008, which attracted fellow cat lovers to the area.
Image credit: @houtongcatvillage via Instagram
You’ll get your selfie moment with these felines at just about every corner. They’re friendly and easy to win over – just feed them treats you can easily get at any store in the village. Just be considerate in clearing up messes to keep the place clean.
Image credit: @life_is_all_about_me via Instagram
If you can’t get enough of cats, you can also spot the pointed ears, tiny paw prints, and curly tails in shops and signboards. There are cat-themed cafes and souvenir shops selling kitty-imprinted trinkets all around.
Getting there: You can take the Fuxing Shuttle train towards Su Ao from Taipei Main Station. You’ll drop directly at Houtong Station.
Address: Houtong Cat Village, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 224
10. Dine at the first Din Tai Fung restaurant in the world
Din Tai Fung needs no introduction. The restaurant famed for its juicy soup dumplings and fragrant fried rice has nearly 200 outlets all across Singapore and the rest of the world. And now, here’s your chance to visit Restaurant 0.
Image credit: @photographer_in_finance via Instagram
The original Din Tai Fung is located at Xinyi Street and is still open for business. The insides have been modernised since its founding in 1972, but there are traces of its heritage all around. See if you can spot the signboard that still bears the restaurant’s original name in Chinese calligraphy: “Din Tai Fung Oil Shop”.
Spicy beef tripe.
Image credit: Din Tai Fung
Once you’re seated, take a good look at the menu, as there are items here that are exclusive to Taiwan. Locals recommend the umami-rich truffle and mushroom soup (TWD230, ~S$10) and spicy beef tripe (TWD200, ~S$8.70) as must-orders on top of an order of soup dumplings.
Address: No. 194, Section 2, Xinyi Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am-8.30pm | Sat-Sun 10am-8.30pm
Contact: +886 2 2321 8928
11. Visit the Santorini of Taiwan at Jiufen Old Street
Many would have heard of Jiufen, but poke your head around nooks and crannies and you’ll be surprised at the food you’ll find beyond the usual tea houses that overlook the mountains and sea.
This place has a surprising number of dessert specialties that go well with the slightly bitter Taiwanese tea. A must-try for first-timers are the handmade taro balls from Lai Ah Por Taro Balls which are served in an icy cold dessert soup.
Image credit: 嘉蓉王 via Google Maps
There’s also Dorayaki Ice Cream Shop that sells Doraemon’s favourite food. No prizes for guessing what it is, but you can get it filled with all kinds of ice cream flavours here.
Image credit: Edward Chen via Google Maps
Jiufen is known to be quite humid and warm throughout the year. To keep cool, you can wash all you’ve scarfed down with iced coffee. Although Jiufen is known for its tea houses, many are also serving coffee to meet demands. CHLIV is one such shop that sells gourmet brews.
Getting there: You can take the Tze-Chiang Limited Express all the way to Ruifang Station. From here, there are several buses that will take you directly to Jiufen Old Street: 788, 827, 965, and F802. Take note that 965 and F802 do a more scenic route around Ruifang district before stopping at Jiufen Old Street.
12. Visit a gold mine at the New Taipei Gold Museum
Image credit: New Taipei Gold Museum
These gold mines that were once prosperous during Japanese colonialism in the 1900s have now been turned into museums for the public. The New Taipei Gold Museum would be an ideal place for learning if you want to know more about the industry, or even just to touch real gold.
13. Be mesmerised by the Golden Waterfall
All that glitters isn’t gold but the Golden Waterfall actually glistens and sparkles in the sunlight. There’s a scientific explanation to its attractive physical appearance. Though the gold and copper mines are no longer operational, the rain that seeped into these mines amalgamates with the metal deposits. The chemical reactions result in this stunning coppery Golden Waterfall.
Getting there: Take bus 788 from Keelung or Bus 886 from Ruifang. Both buses stop exactly in front of the falls.
14. Marvel at the Yin Yang Sea
Right beside the Golden Waterfall is the Yin Yang Sea. The physical phenomenon of this sea can be translated literally from its name – the intense contrast between the golden yellow water at the bay and the sparkling blue water from the endless sea.
Although many believe that the contrast is a result from the mining of gold from the factories aforementioned, it is actually a natural runoff from a geological feature nearby that contains large amounts of iron pyrite.
Getting there: From Ruifang Train Station, take bus 886 for 9 stops until you reach Shuinandong. The Yin Yang Sea will be right in front of you.
Address: Lianxi, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 224
15. Climb Mount Keelung
A pregnant lady, a bird cage and King Kong. Yes, those are the different optical illusions you can get from viewing a single mountain, Keelung.
588m above sea level, Mount Keelung is an extinct volcano with a panoramic top view. The view from the foot of the mountain is picturesque but if you want a breathtaking view, take a 45-minute hike to the top.
Getting there: Qiche Road, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 224
16. Sip tea at sunset at Mao Kong Shan
If you’re a sucker for sunsets, Mao Kong Shan or Mao Kong Mountain has great views. Thankfully, there’s no need to hike up the mountain to see them – there’s a gondola for that. The cable car starts at Taipei Zoo station and then winds up to the peak of Mao Kong Shan.
Image credit: @sheila870212 via Instagram
To escape the immense heat and for golden hour views, go up in the evening before sunset. You can also opt for the Crystal Cabin, which is a glass-floored gondola so you can see what’s going on below your feet.
Image credit: @merryjourneyy via Instagram
At the top of Mao Kong Shan, you will find many hidden tea houses along the winding lanes. Tea-sipping is a must when you are Mao Kong Shan, Taipei’s tea plantation.
Book tickets for the Mao Kong Shan gondola.
Price: TWD260 (~S$11.30) for a 1-day gondola ticket
Address: No. 8 Section 2, Xinguang Road, Wenshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 116
Opening hours: Tue-Fri 9am-9pm | Sat-Sun 9am-10pm (Closed on Mondays & CNY Eve)
Contact: +886 2 2181 2345
17. Relive history at Lungshan Temple
Lungshan Temple is not a multi-storey majestic attraction. However, it is one of the many places you must visit when you’re in Taipei City. Lungshan Temple carries the perfect fusion of tradition and modernity. You’ll get a glimpse of the daily religious life of some Taiwanese locals.
It is heartening to see how this temple built in the 5th year of Qing Dynasty is still part of the fast-moving 21st century; retaining much of its folk art and culture.
18. Watch sky lanterns floating above Shifen Old Street
Image credit: @victor.twk via Instagram
If you are a fan of old-school romance films such as You Are the Apple of My Eye, this is the place you should be at. It’s filled with groups of teenagers and lovers with high hopes and ambitious dreams, so look up and you’ll see sky lanterns hovering above.
Don’t just be mesmerised by the sky lanterns. Take a walk along the shops along the train tracks. There are some vintage and themed shops that you will want to stop by.
Getting there: Take the Fuxing Shuttle towards Yilan and drop at Ruifang Train Station. You’ll need to change to a different Fuxing Shuttle that heads towards Jingtong. Shifen Station is just 4 stops away.
19. See Taiwan’s Niagara Falls at Shifen Waterfall
Those Chinese watercolour paintings of scenic landscapes are a reality at Shifen Waterfall. While it’s not the tallest waterfall in the country, its breadth of 40m across makes it the broadest one in Taiwan.
They’re easily accessible if you’ve just come from Shifen Old Street. Just look out for the signs that will point you in the right direction. If you’re lost, look out for the suspension bridges and follow down that path. You’ll eventually end up at the observation decks where you’ll have a full on view of the waterfalls.
Getting there: Short walk from Shifen Station. There will be many signs leading you to the waterfall.
20. Make a wish at Pingxi Station
Pingxi Old Street is special for its unique architecture and design. Its marketplace is built through a hill, with a train track going overhead in the middle of the village.
While Shifen Old Street is known for its sky lanterns, Pingxi is less crowded and touristy. It’s much easier to get a clear shot of the floating sky lanterns without a throng of tourists in the background.
Image credit: @katephan91
Getting There: Take the Fuxing Shuttle headed towards Jingtong and stop at Pingxi Station.
21. Explore hiking trails at Yangmingshan National Park
The mention of Yangmingshan brings about associations to relaxation, recuperation and adventure. Lined with hot springs along the mountain, city dwellers often take day trips to soak their bodies in milky sulphuric baths and rest their eyes on miles of luscious green hills.
On the Juansi Waterfall Trail.
Image credit: @1010jenny via Instagram
For hikers, trekking up Yangmingshan will be a dream, as it has 10 different trails that range in difficulty. Beginners can start with the Juansi Waterfall Trail, a gentle 1-hour trail that leads you past Juansi towards Beitou, the town famous for its hot springs.
3 peaks of Mount Datun.
Image credit: @eddie.yen via Instagram
A bigger challenge would be the climb to Mount Datun, an active volcano. Prior experience in hiking is recommended, as you’ll need a moderate fitness level and proper equipment like poles and shoes as you make your way up. The trail takes about 6 hours to complete but you’ll get to ascend all 3 peaks.
Getting there: Bus 260 will take you to Yangmingshan from Taipei Station. The last bus departing Yangmingshan is at 10pm.
22. Visit Michelin-rated food stalls at lesser-known night markets
No trip to Taipei would be complete without at least a visit to a night market. You might’ve already visited the more popular ones like Ximending, Shilin Night Market, and Raohe Night Market, but there are plenty more to add to your list – especially if you’re looking for good eats.
Fang Chia Chicken Rice.
Image credit: @mia_eating_food via Instagram
Foodies – make a beeline first for Ningxia Night Market. Its size may pale in comparison to Shilin but in its short 150m stretch are 3 stalls that have won the Michelin Bib Gourmand: Fang Chia Chicken Rice, Rong’s Pork Liver, and Liu Yu Zai.
Taro balls from Liu Yu Zai.
Image credit: @everydayrestaurants via Instagram
Each stall sells simple dishes done well, such as shredded chicken on a sesame oil-flavoured bed of rice (TWD35, ~S$1.52), nourishing bowls of pork liver soup (TWD50, ~S$2.17), and deep fried taro balls (from TWD30, ~S$1.30).
Each pork belly bun is topped with crushed peanuts and pickled mustard greens.
Image credit: @ychang36 via Instagram
You’ll also find 2 Michelin Bib Gourmand stalls at Gongguan Night Market. Lan Jia Gua Bao is one of them and it sells pork belly buns. Each will set you back only TWD65 (~S$2.83) but be prepared to queue at least an hour to get your hands on one. The other stall is Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancake, which sells flaky pancakes topped with your choice of cheese, ham, and corn (from TWD45, ~S$1.96).
Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancake.
Image credit: @cccchhhhuuuu_eat via Instagram
Don’t be too bogged down by awards though – most of these food stalls in both markets see snaking queues filled with locals. If anything, that’s testament enough to the delectable goodies available at these night markets.
Bonus: Boutique accommodations in Taipei
1. Roaders Plus Hotel
Image adapted from: Roaders Plus Hotel
With a ball pit, carousel, and candy station, it wouldn’t surprise us if you thought Roaders Plus Hotel was a carnival you just walked into. But that’s just a couple of the amenities you’ll find at this accommodation.
Image credit: Roaders Plus Hotel
There’s more fun for guests once you’re checked in. The spacious lobby has a glamping setup with picnic tables where you can watch movies for free daily and Instagrammable backdrops with retro cars to take pics in.
Image credit: Roaders Plus Hotel
The hotel rooms aren’t themed like a carnival but they are modernly appointed with plush beds, round mirrors, and darkwood furniture.
2. TW Hostel
To stay in the heart of action in Taipei, book yourself a bed at TW Hostel, which is located within the Ximending shopping district. This no-frills dorm is ideal for travellers who just need a clean place to doze off and take a shower.
Image credit: 橙舍青年旅舍(台北一館) via Google Maps
You’ll have your pick of accommodation choices, such as dormitories that sleep up to 6 in a room for backpackers on a shoestring budget. For more privacy, they’ve recently added capsule bunks as an option, where you have your own mini TV, safe, and power points within arm’s reach in your cubby hole.
Capsule bunk.
Image credit: @kj_hsu via Instagram
Those who need more space can always upgrade to the private room that comes with an en suite bathroom. Regardless of which one you go with, you’ll get access to the shared lounge and kitchen – a great place to meet and make friends with other travellers.
Rates: From TWD530/night, ~S$23.06
Address: No. 41, Section 2, Hankou Street, Wanhua District, Taipei, Taiwan 108
Contact: +886 2 2311 9559
3. CityInn Hotel
You’ll find branches of CityInn Hotel all over Taipei, mainly situated near metro or railway stations for the convenience of travellers. In fact, there are 3 such hotels at Taipei Main Station alone – the heart of the city and a great jumping point for those taking day trips out of Taipei.
Image credit: CityInn Hotel
Rooms are kept simple with modern furnishings. They’re also able to accommodate groups and families of up to 4 with their 3-bed or 2-double bed rooms.
Full list of CityInn Hotel locations.
4. Check Inn Hotel
Image credit: Check Inn Hotel
The exposed brick and graffiti on the walls make the Check Inn Hotel feel more like a loft in NYC than a cosy hotel in Taipei. The rooms even have floor-to-ceiling windows from which you can view the hip neighbourhood of Zhongshan District.
Image credit: Check Inn Hotel
Forgetful travellers needn’t worry about having to run out to buy a toothbrush or toothpaste should you not have packed one. You’ll find all you need to wash up here, including mouthwash, dental floss, makeup remover, razors, and shaving cream. If there’s anything else you need, make a call to the concierge who’ll be able to provide more supplies for your stay.
Start your adventure in Taipei
Tempted to book a ticket and get right on with your adventure? I hope this list makes your Taipei travels more interesting. If you know of more exciting places to go to in and around Taipei, do let us know in the comments below. Although most of these moments were captured during my backpacking trip to Taiwan, we recently had the chance to visit Taiwan again and explore other aspects of it thanks to EVA Air and the Taiwan Visitor Association, Singapore.
We also got the chance to check out EVA Air’s Hello Kitty airplanes! Check out our Hello Kitty airplane review for an inside look at what passengers can expect on these flights.
More travel guides around Asia:
- Tegenungan Waterfall in Bali
- Places to visit in Thailand that aren’t Bangkok or Phuket
- Things to do in Phu Quoc, the Maldives of Vietnam
This post was made possible thanks to EVA Air and Taiwan Visitor Association, Singapore.
Cover image adapted from: @rongjin167 via Instagram, Let’s Play TW, Alex青鳥（鶄）via Google Maps, @houtongcatvillage via Instagram
Written by Yong Jing Yi and Raewyn Koh. Originally published on 21st August 2014. Last updated by Raewyn Koh on 28th April 2023.