taipei temple tour

Taipei's Origin & Longshan Temple - Taiwan Cultural Free Walking Tour

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Uncover the essence of Taiwanese culture at Taipei's ancient Longshan Temple, a 300-year-old treasure nestled in the heart of the city's oldest district. Dive deep into the beginning of Taipei, the true Taiwanese way of life, the captivating tales of our folk gods, and their role in shaping the lives of Taiwanese believers. Dive into the rich fabric of Taiwanese culture and history. Discover how our ancestors thrived in Taiwan and how they treated illnesses without doctors. Looking for a bit of extra luck? Longshan Temple, filled with colorful dragons, is home to over 100 folk gods who oversee everything from the sea to battles. Share your wishes with gods like Wenchang Dijun, known for helping with learning, and the Old Man Under the Moon, who brings couples together. Our guide will show you how to throw 'moonstones' and interpret messages from the heavens. Get your fortune read and learn about the temple's long history and the traditions of Buddhism and Taoism that have made it a beloved place for centuries. Join us for an unforgettable journey as we discover the authentic spirit of Taiwan. Major Stops: Mengxia Park Bopiliao Historical Block Herbal Alley Longshan Temple

Length: 2 - 2.5 hours

Meeting point: longshan temple mrt station exit no.1 see google map, book now >, more tour ..., "i've attended quite a few walking tours and always love how much i learn about a city from them. having recently attending the longshan temple and nearby area tour with jenny hsieh, i really enjoyed experiencing the history of bangka, the skin peeling street, herbal alley, and the longshan temple itself. i came out of the tour with a much better understanding of how taipei was founded and the religion behind not just longshan but all the temples in taipei. thanks for a great tour", rob f - 2023 april, "the tour was great easily one of the best walking tours that i’ve been (if not the best). i feel i’ve learnt a lot from it. our guide james was very knowledgeable, has good humor and it was enjoyable to listen to him. he was friendly, and willing to answer whatever questions we had. the tour was well-organised, fun and informative. i look forward to joining another tour that is hosted by them again", oi y - 2023 mar, "april and josh were informative, humorous, and helpful. april gave me a far better grasp of taoist and confuciuian belief, which was one of my desires for the tour. they both could answer any question i had, even why trash cans are so rare in taiwan. i was happy with the tour and would recommend it to others.", jack spat - 2023 feb, "the tour with ale and leo was just fantastic. both of them are very knowledgeable about the city and the taiwan in general - we highly recommend it we especially loved how enthusiastic they are for the city they live in, making us even more excited to spend some time here and explore the city. ale and leo, we could very easily tell that you love doing what you're doing you made this tour very special for us - thank you so much again", "a very informative tour of the localized/non-urbanized part of taipei. charles and juno were very accommodating and great at making the history of the temple area into funny and engaging stories. would recommend 10/10.", jean mika - 2023 march.

How much does this tour cost?

We believe that personal satisfaction is the key. that's why, at the end of the tour, you have the joyful opportunity to express your appreciation through a donation that feels just right for you. typically ranging from $300 twd - $600 twd($10 - $20 usd) per person, your contribution reflects the incredible journey we'll embark on together, book your tour now, to reserve a spot, fill out the form below, *the name cannot be empty., *please enter a valid email address., *the nationality cannot be empty., 4">{{($index)+1}}th tour:, second tour:, third tour:, fourth tour:, fifth tour:, *the tour cannot be empty., *the date cannot be empty., *the time cannot be empty., *the group size cannot be empty., *these field cannot be empty., *these fields cannot be empty., confirmation, cancellations made within 24 hours of departure are non-refundable. cancellations made more than 24 hours before departure will receive a full refund..

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Ultimate Taipei Day Tour

• • Explore 5,000 years of Chinese art, history and culture at the National Palace Museum
• • Marvel at Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest buildings
• • Discover Longshan Temple, one of Taiwan's most visited religious sites
• • Take a look at a visible showcase of Chinese architecture, Taipei Grand Hotel
• • Eat your way through Taipei’s famous Shilin Night Market

Ancient China, colonial Taiwan, and ultra-modern Taipei are all yours to experience with the added perk of an interactive and knowledgeable tour guide. You'll visit Taipei’s must-see attractions on this full-day tour of the capital’s traditional religious venues, historical spots, and places of scenic beauty. Highlights of this hand-crafted guided tour include a brief visit to Taipei 101, an hour's viewing of ancient Chinese art collections at the National Palace Museum, and free time to explore the bustling, exotic Shilin night market on your own. A whirlwind tour designed for business travelers or visitors looking to experience as much of Taiwan's capital as possible in one day.

▴ Learn about the history of Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall from your knowledgeable tour guide

▴ Learn about Taiwan’s religious rituals through an interactive tour at Longshan Temple

▴ View Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest buildings and Taipei’s landmark skyscraper

▴ Explore Taiwan’s history with traditional Chinese architecture at the Lin An Tai Historical House

▴ Eat your heart out at Taiwan’s Michelin-listed Shilin night market

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• • A professional English speaking tour guide
• • Admission to the National Palace Museum
• • Travel Insurance
• • Admission to Beitou hot springs & Taipei 101 observatory

Cancellation Policy

Very good day

Better than subway, great learning experience, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ taipei city day tour, a complete taipei tour, ultimate tour & guide, awesome tour, best way to see taipei in a day, great tour of taipei, all the top spots, great time in taipei for a short visit, great tour company, the best tour company for taiwan, thank you mytaiwantour, awesome customer service, a brilliant lay over in taiwan, good job mytaiwan tour and iris, the tour exceeded my expectations, incredible tour guide kelly, you are the best, the heart of asia, other recommendations.

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DISCOVER LONGSHAN TEMPLE IN TAIPEI [FULL GUIDE]

WHY VISIT LONGSHAN TEMPLE IN TAIPEI?

In our recent trip to Taipei , we visited Longshan Temple, one of Taipei’s most revered and beautiful temples.

This remarkable site, located in the bustling Wanhua District, is not just a place of worship but a vibrant testament to Taiwanese culture and spirituality. It is in fact, one of the best places we visited in Taipei!

We highly recommend visiting the temple at night to discover all of its splendor! In this post, we explain all you need to know about a visit to Longshan Temple in Taipei!

Key Takeaways From a Visit to Longshan Temple in Taipei

– The temple, dating back to 1738, showcases a traditional Taiwanese architectural style with amazing features! – We strongly recommend visiting the temple at night. – A visit to the temple takes about 1 hour – The Entrance is Free – You can combine your visit with Bopiliao Old Street , and Huaxi Street Night Market.

Watch this video for a glimpse of Longshan Temple:

History of Longshan Temple in Taipei

The Longshan Temple in Taipei has a rich and fascinating history, reflecting the cultural and spiritual heritage of Taiwan . Here’s a brief overview of its historical journey:

• Origin (1738) : The Temple was originally established in 1738 by settlers from Fujian province in China. They brought with them their religious beliefs and constructed the temple to serve as a place of worship.
• Japanese Occupation (1895-1945) : During the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, The Temple continued to be an important spiritual center. The Japanese authorities allowed religious practices to continue, and the temple remained a symbol of Taiwanese cultural identity.
• World War II Damage : The temple suffered significant damage during the American air raids of Taipei in World War II but was rebuilt by local residents, symbolizing their resilience and dedication to preserving their cultural heritage.
• Cultural Revolution Impact : The Cultural Revolution in China led to a surge in the temple’s significance as many Chinese cultural relics and practices were being destroyed in the mainland. Taiwan, and places like Longshan Temple, became refuges for preserving Chinese cultural and religious practices.
• Tourist Attraction and Cultural Site : In modern times, Longshan Temple has become a popular tourist attraction, known for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and vibrant atmosphere. It continues to play an important role in the religious and cultural life of Taipei.

Guide to Longshan Temple in Taipei

Opening Hours

• General Schedule : The Temple is open daily. The opening hours are from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. These hours may vary slightly on special occasions or festivals.
• Best Time to Visit : Early morning or late evening. We recommend going there in the evening when the sun is down! The temple is fully lit up and you can admire all the intricate details!
• There are also religious ceremonies or festivals offering a vibrant and colorful experience.

Admission Fee

• No Entry Fee : There is no admission fee. You can explore the temple free of charge.

How to Get There

Public Transportation : Taipei’s efficient public transport makes it easy to reach Longshan Temple.

• By MRT (Metro) : The easiest way is to take the Taipei Metro (MRT). The temple is conveniently located near the Longshan Temple Station on the Blue Line (Bannan Line). After exiting the station, the temple is just a short walk away.
• By Bus : Various city bus routes stop near Longshan Temple. Check Google Maps to get the easiest route.

By Taxi/Uber : You can easily hail a taxi to Longshan Temple from anywhere in the city.

> Exact Location of Longshan Temple in Taipei

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Best Things to See at Longshan Temple

1. The Impressive Architecture of Longshan Temple

Longshan Temple’s architecture is a stunning showcase of traditional Taiwanese design, infused with influences from various Chinese dynasties. Each structure within the temple tells a story!

2. The Dragon Pillars: Symbols of Power and Wisdom

Standing tall at the temple’s entrance, the dragon pillars captivated our attention. These majestic sculptures are believed to bring protection and good fortune.

3. The Main Hall at Longshan Temple

The main hall, dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, is the heart of Longshan Temple. The hall’s roof has amazing carvings and statues. It’s truly a masterpiece.

4. The Waterfall and Koi Pond

Right at the entrance of the temple, you will see the beautiful waterfall on 1 side and the Koi Pond on the other side.

It’s a nice blend of natural elements with the rest of Longshan Temple!

5. Stroll through Longshan temple

Simply stroll through the temple or sit down in a quiet corner and appreciate this architectural marvel right in front of you! We really loved our visit of Longshan despite being very tired from a long day walking through different parts of Taipei.

Other things to see nearby

1. bopiliao old street.

Just a few minutes walk from Longshan Temple, we recommend visiting Bopiliao Old Street.

Walking through Bopiliao Old Street felt like a journey back in time to the Qing Dynasty era, with its red brick walls, arched arcades, lanterns, and intricately carved windows.

> Read: Full guide to Bopiliao Old Street in Taipei

2. Huaxi Street Night Market

If you are hungry after your visit of the Temple, head to Huaxi Street Night Market pretty much across the street. As you know at night Taipei is filled with lively Night Markets all around the city.

We stopped there for dinner, eating plenty of street food! 1 stall we loved was the scallion pancakes! Super yummy!

>  The exact Location of Huaxi Street Night Market > Read: Complete Guide to Huaxi Street Night Market

3. Herb Lane

Another cool thing to do nearby is to stroll down Herb Lane in Taipei.

This unique street is lined with shops offering an array of herbal products, from dried plants to medicinal teas. Each store was a treasure trove of knowledge, with shopkeepers eager to share the uses and benefits of various herbs.

>  The exact Location of Herb Lane

Our Final Reflections

During our trip throughout Taiwan, this temple was probably the most impressive ones we visited!

The Architecture, the details, the feeling at night, the smell of incent, everything was truly amazing! Longshan Temple was one of the highlights during our visit to Taipei. So we highly recommend it, and it’s 100% worth visiting!

Related Posts

• FULL GUIDE TO TAIPEI
• HOW TO VISIT TAIPEI 101
• VISIT BOPILIAO OLD STREET IN TAIPEI
• GUIDE TO HUAXI STREET NIGHT MARKET GUIDE TO CHIANG KAI SHEK MEMORIAL
• DISCOVER THE RONGJIN GORGEOUS TIME IN TAIPEI
• BEST THINGS TO DO IN XIMENDING
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Taipei's Origin & Longshan Temple - Taiwan Cultural Walking Tour

• Local Guide
• Taipei's Origin & Longshan Temple - Taiwan Cultural Free Walking Tour Meeting Point - TourMeAway, No. 153號, Section 1, Xiyuan Rd, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108 Longshan Temple MRT Station Exit No.1 Street Level, Tour Guide with an Orange Badge. If you are running late or need to contact us, feel free to join this WhatsApp group.
• Longshan Temple, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108 The tour ends in Wanhua night market and can walk to Longshan Temple MRT station easily in 5 mins.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 50 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Longshan Temple

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Taipei's Origin & Longshan Temple - Taiwan Cultural Free Walking Tour Meeting Point - TourMeAway No. 153號, Section 1, Xiyuan Rd, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108 Longshan Temple MRT Station Exit No.1 Street Level, Tour Guide with an Orange Badge. If you are running late or need to contact us, feel free to join this WhatsApp group. See address & details
• 1 Bangka Park Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 2 Bopiliao Ancient Street Stop: 20 minutes See details
• 3 Longshan Temple Stop: 40 minutes See details
• You'll end at Longshan Temple Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108 The tour ends in Wanhua night market and can walk to Longshan Temple MRT station easily in 5 mins. See address & details

• 672kimberleyp 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Outstanding and a great way to start your Taipei visit! Excellent experience and a great overview of Taipei and Taiwan. Our guide Sun, had extensive knowledge of the sights we visited and the backstory. This was / is a great way to begin your visit here in Taipei. We liked this company so much we took their second free walking tour and the street food night tour. Chester and Ava as our guides respectively were great! Highly recommend all! Read more Written April 19, 2024
• 960zacharyw 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Elliot rocks What a great tour! Our guide Elliot was very knowledgeable and gave us some very insightful facts about the places we visited. He was conscientious about his word choice, which I respect a lot! He even suggested we try out a local drink :) Read more Written April 15, 2024
• spawn57 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles So engaging, I had a blast! The stories that aretalked about during this tour aren't over, Taipei is a hotspot for today's politics and we understand why it's such a big topic after doing this tour. The somber and bloody history of this place were insane to hear about, and the monument in the middle of the peace park about how it's uniting the people is great. Honestly it's my favourite walking tour. Read more Written April 7, 2024
• jilln153 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Wonderful Cultural Experience Violet provided an excellent tour at the Huaxi Night Market, the oldest with the most history in the city. She provided excellent background and a historical perspective of the market itself as well as the food we ate. It was a wonderful Taiwanese cultural experience. Read more Written March 31, 2024
• 930mayal 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 5 star tour! Chester the tour guide was great! So much amazing food! He explains everything and gave us some extra history about the city and culture. Definitely recommend Read more Written March 24, 2024
• anthonyaP4900CS 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles . Ava was very nice and an informative guide. After the tour I had experienced a lot of Taiwans traditional food and snacks. Read more Written March 18, 2024
• JS-JN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Absolutely great tour with our beautiful guide Chester So enjoyed the tour with Chester, great guide, spoke so clearly, very informative and funny. The food tastings were so varied and tasty, absolutely impossible for a tourist to find safely. I read very negative comments (from another reviewer with just ONE contribution on tripadvisor 🤔🤔🤔) that she hated almost everything but especially the visit to 7-11, this part of the tour was so unexpected but very interesting, as I have been into dozens of 7-11’s around the world but to be pointed out special tasty delights by a guide was invaluable. I bought the recommended chocolates and they were absolutely delicious. Readers please take note, I generally ignore extremely good or bad reviews from members who only have written ONE looks very suspicious. To conclude this food tour is really good with great foods, superb guide Chester, plus clear instructions on line where to meet before starting. Thank you so much. Read more Written March 14, 2024
• ferrano2024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Friendly and cozy tour. The tour was nice. The tour guide was well-educated and told about the history of Taiwan, buildings, and culture non-stop : ) Read more Written March 13, 2024
• C6466BGbonnieh 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Visit Taipei's Oldest--and Sketchiest--Night Market I'm not sure whether the website indicated the night market to be visited was the notorious Huaxi. If I'd known, I wouldn't have signed up. Besides spending two hours in this depressing place, the food choices were questionable, particularly the two kinds of stinky tofu (one is sufficient) and blood cakes. The concept of the "Free tour of a convenience store" as an extra added attraction is an insulting head scratcher. The guide tells you to go into the store and you reconvene outside a few moments later. Is a tour of a 7 Eleven really necessary anyway? The only positive was spending a couple of hours with a lovely group of fellow travelers. My recommendation is to pay a little more money and take a quality food tour offered by any another company. If you do decide to try this tour, a word of caution. Eat before you go because you may well leave this tour hungry. Caveat emptor! Read more Written February 25, 2024
• williamrT5498UR 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles History Tour of Taiwan. Shao was highly knowledgeable and passionate about the various stages within Taiwan’s history. As an educator, I walked away with a greater understanding and appreciation of this wonderful country. And the best part of the tour was that Shao was funny and serious too. It made for a nice day with other travelers. Read more Written February 16, 2024
• 742beats 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles did not take place Nobody was there on February 3 ... (booked some 4 hours ahead on the same day, my Taiwanese partner found it a bit strange that it was not sold out already, as may be usual in Taipei for such events) - Read more Written February 6, 2024
• endtried 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Super interesting and informative Bridget was a great tour guide and gave interesting insights into the history of Taiwan. Would definitely recommend the tour. Read more Written February 2, 2024
• CaptainCookieDaddy 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Good tour The tour was great. Our guide was Manu, he took us all over the old town and gave us a great interesting history lesson. He gave us a great overview of history and culture. Read more Written January 25, 2024
• lindsaylangstaff 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun tour! Very nice and friendly tour. Very informative and nice pace! Enjoyed it very much and would recommend! Read more Written January 20, 2024
• petergL4596XC 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Sun an excellent guide Sun is an excellent guide. Knowledgeable and easy to understand. Her talk was pitched just right, neither simplistic nor preachy. Great way to see the center of Taipei. Read more Written January 17, 2024

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8 Things to Do Around Longshan Temple

• taiwanscene

Longshan Temple in Taipei’s Wanhua district is a Chinese folk religious temple built by Chinese settlers from Fujian in the early-to-mid 18 th century. Also known as Bangka Longshan/Lungshan Temple due to Bangka being the Taiwanese Hokkien name for Wanhua, the temple has strong Buddhist elements as well as alters to various other gods, including sea goddess Mazu. ( Read more: Ultimate Taipei Day Tour )

Wanhua is Taipei’s oldest district and home to well-known shopping destination Ximending. During the Qing era, huge amounts of trade were conducted in the Wanhua (Bangka) area, making it one of the most important places in northern Formosa, and during Japanese rule, it was the third most populous city on the island (at the time it was a city part of the Taihoku [Taipei] capital area).

Longshan Temple is one of Taipei’s premier tourist attractions and a great location to plan a day around. Here are eight fantastic things to do in the Longshan Temple and Wanhua district area during your next visit to Taipei. ( Read more: Taipei: a museum without walls )

Longshan Temple itself

Longshan Temple is considered one of the three great (or “big three”) temples of Taipei; the other two being Qingshui Temple and Dalongdong Baoan Temple. Ten gods are commonly worshipped there, including sea goddess Mazu (who has her own hall at the northern end of the temple), the god of marriage Yue Lao, and goddess of mercy Guanyin. ( Read also: The Mazu Pilgrimage Experience )

Reconstructed in 1920, the temple now houses fine examples of traditional folk art. The Fore Hall, for example, is home to Taiwan’s only pair of bronze dragon columns, while the Main Hall, in the temple’s center, features many fine wooden carvings and designs. A dedicated municipal historical site, you won’t go wrong with a visit to Longshan if you want to see a traditional, authentic Taiwanese temple for yourself. ( You might also like: Shaping the Memories of a Century: Master Guo Gengfu’s Life of Mortar Shaping )

Pop into Qingshan Temple too

One temple not enough for you? Qingshan Temple on Guiyang Street is home to the Qingshan King Rituals (青山王祭典), a series of pilgrimages/religious activities are held annually from October 20-23 of the lunar calendar. A brilliant example of southern Chinese temple architecture, Qingshan Temple is one of Taipei’s oldest, being built in 1854. It even survived WW2, which a lot of parts of the city, including the original incarnation of Longshan Temple, did not. ( Read more: The Qingshan King Rituals of Bangka )

Complete a Hattrick of Temples at Qingshui Temple

Another of Taipei’s great temples located in this historic district, Qingshui Temple was built in 1787 and is a protected cultural relic. It is one of three temples in Taipei/New Taipei dedicated to Master Qingshui (清水祖師), the other two being in Sanxia and Tamsui respectively. There are two separate shrines for Master Qingshui, as well as shrines dedicated to the likes of Mazu, the Earth God, and the God of Literature. Used as a school during Japanese rule, nowadays, the temple celebrates this fact and is a leader in the promotion of education in Taiwan.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chen Wan Ning 陳婉寧 (@wn1203) on May 22, 2019 at 3:58am PDT

Explore Bopiliao Historic Block

Not a temple (sorry), but still one of the most historic locations in Taipei. As the city has developed over the years, going through eras such as Japanese rule and post-WW2 recovery, Bopiliao Historic Block’s architecture has maintained its Qing Dynasty feel and aesthetic. Restored and opened to the public in 2009, nowadays, the area is home to many art exhibitions.

Sip on Tea Down Herb Alley 

Also know as Life-Saving Street, Herb Alley is a small alley a stone’s throw away from Longshan Temple. The alley is door-to-door herb shops, ranging from big sacks of dried herbs to products like cacti and aloe. Everything you find will be a remedy used in Chinese medicine, hence the alley being dubbed Life-Saving Street. The stores all have transparent roofs and the street has excellent airflow, in order to maintain the herbs’ freshness for as long as possible. 

Browse a Traditional Market

Traditional yet modern, like so much these days in Taipei, the markets from East San Shui Street down to Xinfu Market (also known as U-mkt) are definitely worth your time. The latter is part of the JUT Foundation’s Project UrbanCore and has been the base for the study of traditional market culture and day-to-day life in Taipei for the past three years, while the former is as authentic as they come. ( You might also like: Three Alternative Ways to Experience Food in Taipei )

Gorge Yourself on Street Food

All that wandering around temples is bound to make you work up an appetite, so you’ll be pleased to find out that there are plenty of market options in the local area. Bangka Night Market is over on Guangzhou Street to Longshan Temple’s west, while to the north of here is Huaxi Street Night Market, commonly known as Snake Alley, where you can get all the usual night market fare but in the past was a destination for more exotic offerings ranging from snake blood to deer penis wine, which, nowadays, unfortunately, you most likely won’t be able to get your hands on due to issues with legality.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by PopYummy 波波發胖 (@popyummy_mag) on Dec 19, 2018 at 12:30am PST

Shop ‘til You Drop in Ximending

Ok, while not exactly “near” Longshan Temple, Ximending is still part of Wanhua district, so it makes the list. From high street brands to more unique, one-of-a-kind stalls, Ximending is the perfect place to fill your shopping bags and empty your wallet. There are also heaps of restaurants, bars and arcades to while away some time, as well as cinemas and iconic Taipei venues and attraction such as the Red House and the rainbow flag crosswalk. ( Read more: 8 Awesome Things to Do on American Street, Ximending, Taipei )

Learn More about Temples and Religion in Taiwan

• 13 Tips for having a deeper Taiwan Temple experience
• Season of Folk Beliefs: Fun Cultural Festivals in Taipei
• Baosheng Cultural Festival: A Festive Event Full of History, Religion and Community
• An End to Loneliness: One String to Entwine Destinies
• Ten Festivals Worth Planning your Taiwan Holiday around (Part one)
• Ten Festivals Worth Planning your Taiwan Holiday around (Part two)

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Longshan Temple: How to Pray for Love at Taipei’s Top Temple

Longshan Temple is indisputably the most famous temple in Taipei city , Taiwan. And it’s not just a tourist-trap, either.

Locals really do consider Longshan to be the most important temple in the city. It is an active place of worship, always buzzing with energy and devotion. Three daily chanting ceremonies take place in the temple grounds.

In the streets around the temple, fortune tellers dish out guidance, vendors display an array of herbs and medicines , and no less than four night markets come alive in the evening (the most famous being Huaxi Night Market ). This is the throbbing heart of Wanhua, the oldest district of Taipei.

In this article, I’ll provide some tips for having an enjoyable visit at Longshan Temple, including the temple’s history, best times to go, temple etiquette, how to visit and pray for love in the temple, where to eat nearby, and other things to see and do in the area.

Table of Contents

Longshan Temple Quick Intro

Longshan Temple (龍山寺) literally means “ Dragon Mountain Temple “. Its name comes from a temple of the same name in Fujian province, China (where most of Taiwanese people’s ancestors come from). That temple sits at the base of Dragon Mountain.

The name is sometimes also spelled Lungshan Temple, or more complete forms like Bangka/Monga/Mengjia Longshan Temple (艋舺龍山寺). Bangka/Monga/Mengjia are older and Taiwanese language pronunciations of Wanhua district , the original walled city of Old Taipei.

These words also help to differentiate Bangka Longshan Temple from at least three other Longshan Temples in Taiwan ­– ones in Tamsui ( New Taipei City ), Lukang ( Changhua county ), and Kaohsiung .

Chinese settlers from Fujian established Taipei’s Longshan Temple in 1738 as a branch of the temple from their homeland. This makes it one of the oldest temples in Taipei, but not as old as many temples in Tainan , Taiwan’s original capital (see my Tainan guide ).

Like many old temples in Taiwan, the original structure has been destroyed by fires and earthquakes and rebuilt several times. American warplanes also bombed it during World War II , so the current structure dates to post-WWII, with even more renovations having been done since then.

Also like most temples in Taiwan, Longshan combines elements of Buddhism, Daoism, and folk religion . The temple’s Main Hall houses a large statue of Guanyin (the goddess of mercy) brought over from China, but many other deities are housed in the temple (we’ll get to that below).

Learn about other famous temples in Taipei here .

Getting There

The temple has a namesake MRT stop, Longshan Temple MRT Station , on the Taipei MRT Blue Line. It is one stop from Ximen and two stops from Taipei Main Station.

Alighting from the MRT, follow the signs to Exit 5 , the closest exit to Longshan Temple. Although not marked on GoogleMaps, the escalators at the exit will spit you out here in Bangka Park , which is just south of the temple.

You could also walk to Longshan Temple from popular Ximen (Ximending) neighborhood in 20 minutes. If you do so, consider visiting the area’s three other famous temples (Taipei Tianhou Temple, Qingshui Temple, and Qingshan Temple) along the way.

Want a local to guide you through Longshan Temple? Then join this free Longshan Temple tour .

Best Time to Visit: The Chanting Ceremony

Longshan Temple is open daily from 6 AM to 9:45 PM . If you want to visit the temple at its liveliest, try to come during one of the three daily chanting ceremonies .

These take place daily from 6:00 to 6:45 AM, 8:00 to 8:45 AM, and 3:45 to 5:00 PM . During these times, there will be a crowd of local worshippers, often mostly women, chanting in front of the Main Hall. Local devotees will join in the singing from positions throughout the temple.

You won’t be interrupting anything if you visit during the ceremony. Other locals will still be busy doing their normal prayers and rituals during this time.

You can still explore the temple freely as you wish. You can even join the chanters in front of the Mall Hall. The chanting will only add to your experience, providing a calming and meditative soundtrack to your visit.

Longshan Temple takes on a totally different, more chill vibe at night . If you’re in the area for visiting Huaxi Night Market, take another look at the temple after your night market visit.

Longshan Temple is also a great place to visit on Lunar New Year’s Day , if you happen to be in the city during the holiday.

Many locals visit a temple on the first day of the year to pray for good fortune in the year to come. There are usually extra decorations during the Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival period. Here are other ways to celebrate Chinese (Lunar) New Year in Taipei .

Visiting Etiquette

There is no particular dress code for visiting Longshan Temple or most Taiwanese temples. Whatever you’re wearing already is fine – just don’t do something silly like go in a bathing suit or barefoot, but this applies to pretty much anywhere in Taiwan besides the beach or pool.

Shorts, sandals, skirts, tank tops, hats – no one will bat an eye if you enter the temple wearing any of these.

What’s more important is that you visit the temple in a respectful manner. Don’t get in people’s way when they’re praying or doing rituals, don’t be loud, and follow the correct visiting route (I’ll cover that below).

Photography is allowed, but if you’re photographing people, do so either discreetly or not at all.

Longshan Temple Map

You can find a better version of the above map of Longshan Temple by clicking this link or scanning one of the QR codes on the poster just inside the temple.

When you open the map, you can click on the different numbers on the map to learn more about the typical steps for walking and worshipping inside the temple. There’s also the option for an audio guide.

I’ll describe in even more detail how to visit the temple according to steps 1 to 6 below.

How to Visit the Temple: Step by Step

To visit Longshan Temple in the correct traditional manner, follow these steps, as outlined here on the official temple website. I’ll add more tips and details to deepen your experience.

Step 1: MRT to Dragon Entrance Gate

Assuming you’re coming from the MRT, you’ll first walk through a small underground mall to Exit 5 for reaching the temple. This mall is filled with Fortune Teller Stalls , where locals go to ask about their future, determining auspicious dates for major life events, assessing compatability with partners, choosing names for children, and more.

You can also try traditional Taiwanese tea at LiuYu Teahouse ( 柳隅茶舍 ) near the escalators and stairs going up to the park.

The stairs or escalators will take you up to Bangka Park , where elderly men like to hang out and play Chinese chess. The park also has a pond and water fountains that kids could play in on a hot day.

Cross Guangzhou Street (廣州街) at the north end of the park to reach the entrance gate to Longshan Temple. There are often vendors selling religious items or monks/nuns asking for donations on the street in front of the temple.

There is only one Main Gate for entering the temple grounds. Take a moment to admire the vibrant porcelain tile mosaics and dragons atop the gate – standard features in Fujian and Taiwanese-style temples. Also note the characters 龍山寺 (Longshan Temple) on the gate.

Once you pass through the gate, you’ll find yourself in a small square in front of the temple. To the right, there’s an artificial waterfall. To the left, you’ll see a pond filed with coy fish.

In front of you will be the Front Hall of Longshan Temple. Again stop to take in the temple’s intricately carved columns, octagonal windows, and upward curving swallowtail roof tips – another trait distinct to the region.

Enter the temple from the Dragon Gate (龍門), which is to the right of the Front Hall.

Step 2: Front Hall

When you enter the temple, you’ll walk through a short hallway to the front courtyard . This hallway has a kiosk on the right where locals buy incense and cookies and candies for offerings. As a foreign guest, don’t feel you need to do this unless you really want to.

Also watch for the signboard which has a map of the temple and QR code to pull up the map and audio guide on your phone.

Upon entering the first courtyard, most locals will hang a sharp right and proceed directly to the inner side of the Front Hall (三川殿). From there, they will face inward to the courtyard and Main Hall and do some prayers.

If you want to pray , just find a spot among the worshippers in the Front Hall, face forward to the Main Hall and deity statues in it, and place your palms together. If you have incense, you can light it and place it between your palms while praying.

In your head, state your name, birthday, where you live, and things you want to ask the gods for. Go for realistic dreams rather than winning the lottery-type ones – the gods are pragmatic.

Local devotees will do this three times to three different god statues housed in the Main Hall, in this order: Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, Manjushri Bodhisattva, and Samantabhadra Bodhisattva. After doing this, bow three times.

Different deities can be asked for different things, depending on what their specialty is – that’s more than I want to get into here.

Step 3: Main Hall

After praying in the Front Hall, worshippers will then walk across the courtyard to the Main Hall (正殿), which is at the center of Longshan Temple. It is the tallest and most important structure in the temple.

As a visiting guest, there’s a good chance you’ll just go directly to the Main Hall upon entering the temple.

The Main Hall’s most important deity, right in the middle, is a golden statue of Guanyin (觀音) brought over from China. She sits cross-legged on a lotus, with flames emanating from the halo around her head.

This is an original statue – it survived the WWII bombing that otherwise destroyed the Main Hall.

There are small staircases on either side of the Main Hall for getting up to the prayer platform in front of it. Locals will do the same prayer I described above but now for Guanyin.

Next, they will turn around (facing back to the courtyard and Front Hall) and pray to Jade Emperor (天公) in the sky.

If you’re visiting during the chanting ceremony, this platform will be full of worshippers doing the chanting, but there’s usually still enough room to join them and peer into the Main Hall.

Step 4: Rear Hall & Asking for Love

Taiwan is known for its superstitions and numerous temple rituals, so now you’ll get to find out how to partake in one of them!

Walk to the right side of the Main Hall to reach the Rear Courtyard and Rear Hall of Longshan Temple. On the way, take note if the huge lanterns hanging from the side of the Main Hall. The Rear Hall actually consists of multiple small, adjacent rooms in the side and back walls, each housing different deities. Locals may pray to all of them or choose specific ones depending on what they’re wishing for that day.

One small but popular deity here is Yue Lao (月老), the matchmaker god, in a small hall on the left side – it’s marked on the official map. If you’re looking for love, you may want to pay him a visit.

To ask Yue Lao for love , first leave a candy or sweet treat on one of the red plates on the table to his left. You can bring this in from outside the temple or buy one from the kiosk I mentioned in the temple’s entrance hallway.

Now pray to Yue Lao in the same way I described for the other gods above. At the end, also describe the kind of person you are looking for and what kind of relationship you would like to have.

If you already have a partner but want the relationship to go to the next level, tell Yue Lao this. Make sure to mention the person’s name and picture them in your mind.

After this, you must throw a pair of red moon blocks (筊杯 or jiaobei ) on the ground three times, asking a different question about your future love each time. See here for how to read the moon block answers and more details about those answers here . The blocks will be on a table nearby.

After completing these rituals, you can take one of Yue Lao’s red strings (紅線), which are in a box in front of his shrine. There’s no fee for the strings.

Make sure to keep and protect the string if you want Yue Lao’s matchmaking skills to work. There’s one final step to seal the deal (see #5 below).

Step 5: Bless the Red String

If you have received a red string from Yue Lao, before leaving, you must bless the string. Do this by returning to the large incense pot in front of the Main Hall (pictured above). Hold your string over the incense pot and move it in a clockwise circle three times.

If you’ve purchased any religious souvenirs (see step 6), you can also bless them in this way before leaving.

Note: If Yue Lao’s blessing does the trick and you find the love that you asked him for, tradition has it that you must later return to Longshan Temple to thank him.

Step 6: Exit via the Tiger Gate

Your Longshan tour is now complete. You should exit via the Tiger Gate (虎門), which will be on the right side as you’re leaving. Just before exiting, there is a kiosk on the right selling some religious souvenirs. There’s also a staircase to the free restrooms on B1.

Where to Eat around the Temple

Whether you’re visiting Longshan Temple in the early morning, afternoon, or at night, there are multiple dining options around the temple.

For traditional breakfast around the temple, visit Yonghe Four Seas Soy Milk King ( 永和四海豆漿大王 ) or Original Under Xiyuan Bridge ( 原西園橋下燒餅油條 ). Both are about five minutes away on foot. (See other famous breakfast shops in Taipei and how to order Taiwanese breakfast ).

There’s also a modern café/bakery here , while 24-hour Cheng Ji Original Pork Ribs Soup ( 誠記原汁排骨湯 ) is popular among locals (see my list of 24-hour restaurants in Taipei ).

For lunch, I highly recommend Liang Xi Hao ( 兩喜號西園店 ), just west across the street from Bangka Park.

The extensive menu (Mandarin only – use GoogleTranslate’s picture scanning function) features satisfying squid/shrimp/cuttlefish thick soup with noodles, braised pork rice, burdock tempura, and other local dishes. It’s open 10 AM to 11:30 PM.

If you’re visiting Longshan Temple in the late afternoon (for the 3:45 to 5:00 PM chanting ceremony) or evening, then see my Huaxi Street Night Market guide for how to visit the four night markets around Longshan Temple .

Also consider walking 15 minutes to Nanjichang Night Market , which overall has better food selection than Huaxi Night Market.

Other Things to See and Do around Longshan

Right next to Longshan Temple, Herb Lane (青草巷), when vendors display various Chinese medicinal herbs, is worth a quick look.

These shops tend to be open from around 8 AM to 10 PM and some of them take a break on Sundays. You can taste various herbal drinks at this shop .

In the evening, the street next to Herb Lane becomes Xichang Night Market , but food options in this market are limited. It’s better to follow Guangzhou Street west of Longshan Temple, where it becomes Mengxia/Guangzhou Street Night Market .

You’ll need to walk down Mengxia/Guangzhou Night Market for accessing Huaxi Street Night Market and Wuzhou Street Night Market . Find a map of all four night markets in my Huaxi Night Market article .

Read about other night markets in Taiwan here .

Bopiliao Historical Block (剝皮寮歷史街區) is another interesting attraction in the area. It is a renovated street of historical buildings now housing little museums and galleries.

Wanhua’s two other most famous temples are Bangka Qingshan Temple (艋舺青山宮) and Bangka Qingshui Temple (艋舺清水巖).

Popular Ximending Walking District is a 20-minute walk (or 1 MRT stop) away. You could visit the above two temples on the way to Ximending, while another important one, Taipei Tianhou Temple , is in Ximending itself.

Visiting Taipei and Taiwan in June 2024

Visiting taipei & taiwan in july 2024, 3 thoughts on “longshan temple: how to pray for love at taipei’s top temple”.

Very helpful article will enjoy following this guide

I am currently planing my trip to Taipei ! Thank you so much for the advice ! Nowhere else could I find such elaborated and insightful recommendations !

Can’t say thank you enough

Very detailed article, thanks for writing!

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A Guide to Dihua Street in Dadaocheng, Taipei’s Oldest Street

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

Dadaocheng (大稻埕) is undoubtedly one of Taipei ’s most compelling neighborhoods and best places to explore on foot. While Wanhua, the historical Old City to the south, is a magnet for tourists, serious history, food & culture fans can’t miss Dadaocheng.

Twatutia , as Dadaocheng is pronounced in the Hokkien (Taiwanese) language , was once the second largest city in Taiwan after Tainan, the original capital in the south .

Most goods entered Taipei at Twatutia Wharf on the Tamsui (Danshui) River. Dihua Street, the area’s main thoroughfare and now considered Taipei’s oldest street, developed into a sprawling place of trade in tea, medicine, herbs, fabrics, and all manner of dried goods. Even today, it’s a great place to find traditional souvenirs from Taiwan .

The area also features some of the most interesting temples , best traditional street foods , and  most interesting cooking classes in Taipei .

Thanks to the neighborhood’s rich and colorful history, a variety of architectural styles are preserved on and around Dihua Street, representing the different phases of its history. Traditional Fujian-style Qing Dynasty homes can be seen alongside Baroque revival and modernist styles favored by wealthy Japanese at the time of the Japanese colonial occupation.

What truly makes Dihua street special is that many of these 100+ year-old businesses are still in operation, while cute modern cafés, craft shops and clothing boutiques make practical use of gorgeously restored ancient edifices. The area’s unique museums, intriguing temples, and traditional eats are the finishing touches on this quintessential Taipei experience.

Be sure to also check out my articles on Ximending and Beitou Hot Spring , my other two favorite neighborhoods in Taipei, or Jiufen , which also features Japanese-era architecture and tea houses, and 40 other day trips from Taipei that you may enjoy.

Useful resources – Find out whether the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass will save you money on your Taipei visit. – Learn how to plan your trip around Taiwan and read my recommended Taiwan itinerary . – Get discounts and travel deals here on Klook – Find out the best times to visit Taipei .

Table of Contents

Exploring Dihua Street with MyProGuide

I was invited to delve into the history and sights of Dihua Street on a customized tour by MyProGuide . While I’m going to briefly introduce the best things to do on Dihua street below, if you really want to dig deeper and get more information on each spot from a knowledgeable local, then I would highly recommend either their Dihua Street Walking Tour .

From the moment I was greeted by Sylvia, a professional licensed tour guide, and intern Effi, who arranged our day, I was taken aback by the depth of detail they were able to provide.

Since Dihua Street and Dadaocheng are quite big and there are SO MANY places to visit and stories behind them, I would recommend doing a little bit of research on your own first (like, ahem, reading this article!) This will help you to narrow it down and have a better idea of what you would like to see and do and make the best use of the limited time on your walking tour, as it would be impossible to see everything described in my article on one tour.

The company also offers walking tours of Longshan Temple and Ximending .

History of Dadaocheng

Twatutia was an area of rice cultivation in the Qing Dynasty, and Twatutia means “large square for drying rice husks and grains.” Tea traders began setting up shop in the mid-19th century, with the first teashop opening in 1851. Twatutia lies to the north the old city of Taipei, Bangka (艋舺, also called Monga, or modern-day Wanhua District 萬華區), which was not yet the capital of Taiwan.

The British also became involved in the tea trade in Twatutia, and many more locals settled there after a conflict among settlers from different parts of China in Bangka.

Following the Treaty of Tianjin , the port of Tamsui at the mouth of the Tamsui River was open to trade with foreigners, with Taipei as the main place of trade. The influx of trade led to rapid development in Bangka.

However, the muddy shore at Bangka made it difficult for boats to dock, so Twatutia to the north soon became the city’s main dock, and Twatutia was prospering by the 1880s. The first train station in Taipei was built in Twatutia in 1891, shortly before Taipei officially became the capital of Taiwan in 1894.

During the Japanese colonial occupation of Taiwan (1895-1945), Taipei (referred to by the Japanese as Taihoku) remained as the capital, while Twatutia (Daitōtei), was considered an extension of the city. Twatutia was home to many foreigners, and had a population of 30-40,000. When the KMT arrived, they called the area Tataocheng or Dadaocheng.

Dihua Street was always and remains the main thoroughfare and central place of commerce in Dadaocheng. It runs south to north parallel to the Tamsui River. It is considered the oldest street in Taipei , with a few sections that date back to the period of Dutch rule in Taiwan (1624–1661), but mainly it was constructed from the 1850s.

The street was originally called Central Street (中街), with the southern and northern sections called South Street (南街) and North Street (北街), respectively. Interestingly, the KMT named it Dihua Jie after the original name of Ürümqi, the capital of Xinjiang province in China.

To learn about the oldest street in all of Taiwan, read my guide to Anping Old Street .

Dadaocheng & Dihua Street Orientation & Access

Dadaocheng is not an official district but a neighborhood within larger Datong District (大同區).

As such, there is no official border, but what most people consider to be Dadaocheng is bordered by the Tamsui River to the west, Minquan W. Road (民權西路) and the orange MRT lines to the North (with Daqiaotou MRT station providing access from the north), Chongqing North Road Sect. 2 (重慶北路二段) to the east, and Beimen (North Gate or 北門, the original northern entrance to Old Taipei) to the south.

The traditional heart of Dadaocheng is much smaller though, and focused on the area nearest to the Dadaocheng Wharf (大稻埕碼頭). Dihua Street section 1 (迪化街一段) begins at the point where Nanjing W. Rd. (南京西路) briefly veers south before continuing west to the river.

Search for Mikkeller Taipei (米凱樂啤酒吧), a craft beer bar, to find the exact spot, and this is where we started our walking tour. You can walk there from Beimen MRT station on the gren line (10 minutes) or Zhongshan MRT station on the green or red line (15 minutes).

Find out how to include Dadaocheng in your visit by consulting my 2-day , 3-day , 4-day , and 5-day Taiwan itinerary !

Dihua Street section 1 runs north (parallel to the river) all the way to Minquan W. Rd., and it is worth walking it in its entirety. Beyond Minquan W. Rd. it becomes Dihua Street section 2, which I won’t cover in this article. There you can also find Yansan Night Market (延三夜市), while Ningxia Night Market (寧夏夜市), one of the most popular night markets in Taipei , is to be found just east of Dadaocheng.

Southeast of Dihua Street, Jiancheng Circle (建成圓環) was a large circular market dating to the Japanese colonial period that was closed in 2006 after two major fires, and is now a park. If you’re passing by, it’s worth stopping for a quick look at Ri Xing Foundry (日星鑄字行, No. 13, Lane 97, Taiyuan Road, 9:30-12, 1-6, closed Monday and Tuesday), the only remaining type foundry in Taiwan.

Where to Stay in Dadaocheng

If you are planning your Taipei trip and wondering where to stay in Taipei , Dadaocheng hotels and Dihua Street hotels are fine choices in the center of it all! Not only can you have access to Dihua Street, Ningxia Night Market, Beimen, Taipei Main Station, and more, but some of these hotels are housed in beautiful historic buildings with a vintage atmosphere. Here are my recommendations.

We Come Hostel Great location between Taipei Main, Beimen, Ningxia, few steps from start to Dihua Street. Highlyrated, dorms or doubles. (see on Agoda / Booking / TripAdvisor )

Jian Shan Hotel Cute vintage style rooms with cement and red brick, historical atmosphere, decent prices for doubles practically hostel price, on Guisui street a few steps from Dihua. (see on Agoda / Booking / TripAdvisor )

OrigInn Space Housed in a historic building owned by Lin family at entrance to Dihua street, nostalgic atmosphere, every room decorated with vintage items. (see on Agoda / Booking / TripAdvisor )

The Door Inn Minimalist style, white & gray, some rooms with balconies offering views over Dadaocheng, northern end of Dihua Street (see on Agoda / Booking / TripAdvisor )

Palais de Chine Hotel One of Taipei’s finest hotels and home to the only Michelin 3-star restaurant in the city, Palais de Chine is within walking distance of Dihua Street (see on Agoda / Booking / TripAdvisor )

Dihua Street during Lunar New Year

If you want to see Dihua Street at its most lively (and crowded!) then come in the weeks leading up to Lunar New Year , which usually takes place in late January or February in Taipei . At this time, half of Taipei’s residents seem to flock there to purchase goods for the holiday, such as dried treats, mullet roe, and Lunar New Year decorations.

The road becomes incredibly crowded, especially on weekends, and most shops set up additional stalls and hand out free samples in front of their businesses at this time. As this is the peak of winter in Taiwan , there are lots of tummy warming foods on offer and warmth produced by the crowds.

Dihua Street Walking Tour

The following are the best things to do on Dihua Street roughly in order from the start of Dihua Street and heading north. I saw some on my walking tour with MyProGuide, and others another day on my own; don’t try to do all of this in one day!

Dadaocheng Tourist Information Center

For information and a great English map of the area, start your Dihua Street tour at the the tourism bureau-run Dadaocheng Visitor Center (大稻埕遊客中心, #44 Dihua St.), which is across from the large Yongle Market.

Check the maps here, ask for info, or even rent a traditional qipao for free for taking photos on Dihua Street. These are very popular, so you need to book it online in advance. Find out how in my guide to renting qipaos and kimonos in Taiwan .

A.S. Watson & Co. Building

ASW is a 100+ year-old building at the corner of Dihua Street and Lane 32. The building once housed Taiwan’s first Western pharmacy, A.S. Watson and Co., but is now home to a few cute craft & souvenir shops, a café, and a bookstore.

One of those shops, ArtYard1 (listed as Small Arts Courtyard 小藝埕 on GoogleMaps, #34 Dihua Street) is run by ArtYard, a project devoted to breathing new life into numerous buildings in the Dihua Street Area. You may notice a few other other ArtYard establishments on the Dadaocheng map.

On the second floor, ASW Tea House (9 AM to 6 PM) is an elegant, British-themed tea shop. They do all-day breakfasts, but I went for the Tea Set, which includes a pot of Ceylon tea (which can be upgraded to a variety of select Taiwanese teas), butter scone with cream cheese, and snowball cookies (NT340). The cute window-side tables have a great view down on Dihua Street.

In the evening, the tea house becomes Watson’s Bar (7:30 PM to 12:30 AM, closed Monday and Tuesday) and features a selection of whiskeys and local craft beers from 55 Street Craft Beer.

Yongle Market

Yongle Fabric Market (永樂布業商場, #1 Minle St.) is a Dihua Street institution. Dating to the Japanese colonial area, the fabric market remains the largest in Taiwan. But there’s more than just fabric to see here.

The first floor of Yongle Market houses a small wet market. At the entrance, people line up to purchase oil rice ( you fan or 油飯), which parents customarily give away to family and friends to celebrate their child’s one-month birthday. Inside, there are several sushi bars, including one with a good range of craft beers.

For another interesting historic food market in Taiwan, check out Taichung Second Market on my list of things to do in Taichung .

The second floor is the actual fabric market, while the third floor is where people can take their fabric to be tailored. The 8th floor houses cultural exhibitions (currently there is one on traditional Taiwanese puppet theater), while Dadaocheng Theater can be found on the 9th floor.

On the south side of Yongle Market (on Minle street 民樂街), there is a collection of tasty, local eateries. Yongle Tainan Fried-Spanish Mackerel Thick Soup (永樂台南土魠魚羹) serves a specialty common at night markets in Tainan that I love: thick stew with breaded, deep fried mackerel strips. Next door, Minle Swordfish Rice Noodle Soup (民樂旗魚米粉) is another popular option.

At the front of Yongle Market, watch for Yanji Xingren Lu (顏記杏仁露), which specializes in traditional almond and shaved ice desserts. For vegetarians , watch for the Buddhist swastika denoting a vegetarian lunchbox shop on the north side of Yongle Market – it’s here on GoogleMaps .

On the backside of the Yongle Market, Yao De Herb Shop (姚德和青草號, #55, Minle St) is a photogenic Chinese herb shop dating to 1946. I found the chilled aloe vera tea (蘆薈茶) tasty and refreshing. They also serve perotis tea (茅根茶), bitter herbal tea (苦茶), and Taiwanese herbal tea (青草茶). There’s a similar business next door, but with a less beautiful shop.

Wang Tea (Youji Ming Cha)

A few blocks east of Yao De Herb Shop, Wang Tea (有記名茶, No. 26號, Lane 64, Section 2, Chongqing North Road, 9 AM to 7 PM, closed Sunday) is one of the most popular stops for Dihua Street Walking tours and visiting tourists interested in Taiwanese teas. And for good reason. This is the only tea manufacturer in Taipei where tea is roasted in the traditional manner, in baskets above hot coals, and you can even have a look at the roasting room at the back.

The tea shop dates to 1890, when the current owners’ great grandfather established it in Xiamen, China. He came to Taiwan in 1935 and establishing the current shop in 1949. They are known for their Baozhong and High Mountain oolongs , but sell several others at various price/quality points.

The tea shop faces Chaoyang Tea Park (朝陽茶葉公園), with several other tea shops around it.

See the end of this article for two more teas hops that I strongly recommend in the area, and learn more in my complete introduction to Taiwanese teas .

Xiahai City God Temple

Dadaocheng’s most famous temple is Xiahai City God Temple (霞海城隍廟, #61, Dihua Street). You may be surprised at how small the temple is, but what it lacks in sizes it makes up for in importance to the local people. The temple houses the Xia Hai Cheng Huang God (霞海城隍爺), which was brought over from Xia Cheng, Tong An County, Fujian province, China.

The statue was originally housed in Bangka, but moved to Dadaocheng following conflicts among people there. The city god is thought to protect the city, among other things, and there are numerous temples devoted to him in Taiwan and China.

The Xiahai City God’s birthday (the 14th day on the 5th month of the lunar calendar, usually around June in Taipei ) is celebrated with a boisterous parade around the neighborhood, and is one of the most important temple festivals in Taipei .

See my guide to what is probably the noisiest and most dangerous festival in Taiwan, the Yanshui Fireworks Festival .

Interestingly, the reason many Taiwanese people come to Xiahai City God Temple these days is to pray for success in their romantic lives. In the last 20 years, the god of love, Yue Xia Lao Ren (月下老人), or simply Yue Lao (月老), who actually comes from a novel, has come to be associated with the temple.

To improve your love life, follow the below 13 steps, which are further explained in Mandarin here with photos .

1. Enter the door on the right and make a donation for a bundle of joss paper and three sticks of incense. 2. Go to the counter in the main shrine room and exchange the joss paper for a pack of offerings, including a lucky bracelet and paper, candy, and cake (first-time visitors only). They will give you a number to reclaim your joss paper later. 3. Light the three sticks of incense over the candles and carry them with you for the following steps. 4. Go to the incense cauldron outside and introduce yourself to the Emperor of Heaven (天公). 5. Return to the counter and get your joss paper back. Go to the main shrine and introduce yourself to Cheng Huang and Yue Lao. Tell them who your Mr. of Mrs. Right is. Don’t forget to promise them something in return after your love succeeds (locals bring a box of treats from their wedding for them).

6. Go to the room on the right and pray to 義勇公 (the tiger figure) for safety. 7. Pray to Cheng Huang’s wife (城隍夫人) for happiness, family. 8. Pray to Pusa (菩薩) for serenity and wisdom. 9. Return outside and place your incense in the cauldron. 10. Eat the cake with some “blessed tea” found outside. 11. Give the candy back to the counter for good karma. 12. Turn the red paper and string over the smoke from the incense in the cauldron 3 times, then keep it on you in the future (most put it in their wallet, while some people wear the string as a bracelet, if they aren’t embarrassed for others to know). 13. Leave your joss paper in the bin or on the offering table. The temple will burn it elsewhere on your behalf.

Just past Xiahai City God Temple, there’s another ArtYard place, called Artyard 67 (民藝埕), which sells some beautiful ceramics.

Central Dihua Street

Next, we’re going to veer a little off Dihua Street to check out some cool spots nearby. Head west down lane 72, directly across from Xiahai City God Temple. At the end of the lane, on Xining North Rd., you’ll see Nadou Theater (納豆劇場), which stages traditional Taiwanese puppet theater performances, though it might be a little tough to catch a show.

Next door to the theater, the Taiyuan Asian Puppet Theater Museum (台原亞洲偶戲博物館, #79-1, Xining North Road, NT80) is the best place in Taipei to learn about this curious performance art form (unfortunately closed last time I checked).

The museum houses exhibits on not only Taiwanese puppet theater but other versions from around Asia. Note that the Taiyuan Puppet Theater closed for renovations in 2019 and hasn’t reopened yet. Check GoogleMaps to see if it has reopened when you go.

To learn more about Taiwanese puppet theater, see this article I wrote for Travel in Taiwan magazine introducing the Puppet Theater Museum in Huwei, Yunlin, the puppet theater capital of Taiwan .

One block closer to the river, Chen Tian-lai Residence (陳天來故居, formerly Jin Ji Tea House or錦記茶行), is the baroque-style former residence of a tea tycoon, and worth a quick look for architecture fans.

A few steps north to the point where Minsheng W. Rd. (民生西路) meets the river, you can take Evacuation Gate #5 (淡五號水門) to reach Dadaocheng Pier Plaza (大稻埕碼頭), with access to the riverside path, ferries bound for Tamsui , and a number of little temples. This is where all the goods traded in Dadaocheng once came in and left the city, and the place that is essentially the reason why Dadaocheng grew into what it is.

Come here for in the evening for the relatively new collection of food and booze stalls called Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market (大稻埕碼頭貨櫃市集), also called Dadaocheng Pier 5 or Pier 5 美食區). In recent years, this has become a popular place for a sunset drink or evening with friends. This is also the site of the popular Dadaocheng Fireworks Festival , which usually takes place in early August .

To see a few more historical sights, follow Minsheng W. Rd. east all the way past Dihua Street and Yanping N. Rd. (延平北路), to have a look at Xing Hua Ge Alcohol House (杏花閣大酒家) on the north side of the road, a last-of-its-kind institution where customers enjoy banquet meals and can pay extra for the company of women.

Facing it on the south side of the road are two identically named Bolero restaurants , who both claim to be the oldest continually operating Western restaurants in Taipei. In their heyday, parents brought their daughters here to meet prospective husbands, and the young women could indirectly decline by ordering nothing but a drink. Come here for a Taiwanese retro eating experience.

A few steps further down, on the north side of the road, Sin Hong Choon (新芳春茶行, #309, Minquan W. Rd.), formerly Guji Tea Factory or 古蹟製茶廠, #309, Minsheng W. Rd.) is a baroque building dating to 1934 that was once the area’s largest tea manufacturer, and is sometimes open to the public.

Back on Dihua Street, the section between Minsheng W. Rd. and Guisui St. (歸綏街) is stuffed with traditional herb shops. You can also expect to spot controversial items such as bird’s nests, shark fins, deer antlers, and more, such as in the photo below.

Dixie Lane (迪士巷咖啡, #117 Dihua St.) is a very cool jazz-focused cafe that sometimes has live jazz performances.

Chen Wey Tea House (臻味茶苑, #156, Dihua St.) is a particularly lovely little tea shop housed in an ancient residence. The tea leaves on offer are a little pricey but of exceptional quality, and free samples are offered.

If you take Guisui St. to the intersection of Yanping N. road, you can find a collection of shops and stalls selling traditional incense.

Northern Dihua Street

Venturing north of Guisui Street, Dihua street becomes a little quieter and feels less touristy, but the buildings and the business they contain are equally atmospheric. Many of the cafés, tea houses, restaurants, clothing shops, and dry goods businesses open into arresting, leafy internal courtyards.

At Taiwan Cooking 101 School (大稻埕台灣料理研習所, Dihua St. #221, 10 Am to 6 PM, closed Wednesdays), you can learn how to make all kinds of traditional Taiwanese food, including oyster omelets, bubble tea, beef noodles, or soup dumplings. You can sign up for one of the cooking courses here .

Right next to the cooking school, Ho Hsing 1947 (合興壹玖肆柒) is a famous traditional pastry shop that does a variety of steamed breads.

Just after Ho Hsing, inBloom Together (印花作夥) is a cute shop with woven and canvas products including lovely purses and laptop bags.

At the far northern end of Dihua street section 1, just before it reaches Minquan W. Rd, Lao Mian Cheng Lantern Shop (#298 Dihua Street) is the best place in Taipei to buy traditional handmade and embroidered lanterns.

Right next to it, Yehjinfa Rice Story Museum (葉晋發商號 Yehjinfa 1923, 1-6 PM, 10 AM to 6 PM weekends, closed Tuesday) is a small rice museum which also sells some local products. Further down the street Rice & Shine (稻舍URS329, 12-3 and 5:30 to 9 PM, closed Mondays) sells traditional meals in a historic Dihua street setting.

Nearby, Lee Cake (李亭香餅店, #309, Dihua St., 9 AM to 8 PM) is one of the oldest continuously running traditional pastry shops in Taipei, which I learned about in the book A Culinary History of Taipei: Beyond Pork and Ponlai .

AMA Museum (阿嬤家-和平與女性人權館), once located on Dihua Street, has moved to a new location here . It is a small but meaningful museum devoted to the “comfort women,” Taiwanese women used as pleasure slaves of the Japanese military during the colonial occupation of Taiwan.

See another fascinating small museum in New Taipei City : the Museum of World Religions .

Last but not least, Oriental Cuisine Guizhou (Qing Tian Xai or 東方饌黔天下貴州主題餐廳, #358-2, Dihua St, 11:30-2:30, 5:30-9:30) is one of my favorites in Taipei and one of the best restaurants on Dihua Street, serving up authentic dishes from Guizhou province in Southwest China in a modern setting.

Guizhou is known for its spicy-sour cuisine and pickled vegetables (醃菜), and some local foodie friends of mine once even preordered a whole chicken slow cooked for over 24 hours in a traditional clay plot for our visit (note: I don’t eat meat).

This is the furthest north we will go. The below sights are to the east of Dihua Street.

Starbucks Bao An Datong

It may seem strange to include a Starbucks on a Dihua Street walking tour, but this one is particularly gorgeous. Listed on GoogleMaps as Starbucks Reserve (星巴克典藏咖啡 保安門市, #11 Bao An Street), this may just be the most beautiful Starbucks in Taipei.

According to Sylvia, my MyProGuide guide, the building is a gorgeous example of a compromise between construction companies and those wanting to preserve old buildings: The bottom three floors (now occupied by Starbucks) preserve the original red brick building, while a modern building housing Taipei City Hotel 台北城大飯店 ( see on Booking / TripAdvisor ) sits on top. You barely even notice the tall building on top from street level.

The original building was constructed in 1929 by Yeh Jin-Tu (葉金塗) of the famous Yeh family. Starting out in seafood, the company Jin Tai Heng Shang (金泰亨商) made a fortune on canned pineapple and came to be known as the “Pineapple King” (鳳梨王) of Taiwan. Note the pineapples paying homage on the building’s exterior.

The interior of the Starbucks is gorgeously designed as well, and the views looking out past the exterior’s columns are majestic.

Dadaocheng Presbyterian Church

Around the corner from Starbucks, the Dadaocheng Presbyterian Church (“Ta Tao Cheng Presbyterian Church” on GoogleMaps, 台灣基督長老教會大稻埕教會, #40, Ganzhou Street) has an interesting story, also shared with me by Sylvia. When the Taipei City Government’s bureau of cultural affairs made an attempt to have the beautiful old church designated as a historical structure to ensure its preservation, the owners tore it down within days, not wanting the restrictions that come with official designation.

The church sued the government and vice versa, and the church won in the end. They later rebuilt a similar church on the same spot, with a surprisingly large addition behind it.

Dadaocheng Cisheng Temple

Another Dadaocheng Institution is Cisheng Temple (大稻埕慈聖宮天上聖母, #17, Lane 49, Bao An Street), sometimes referred to as the Dadaocheng Matsu Temple. What makes this temple special and unique is not so much the structure itself, which has been moved in the past from a different location, but the collection of 40+ food stalls in its forecourt.

Here locals gather for breakfast or lunch to be enjoyed under two large banyan trees in front of the temple. In the past it was primarily (male) laborers and taxi drivers who dined here, but now all manner of people come for the traditional food and experience.

Lin Mao Sen and Lin Huai Tai Tea Shops

Owned by two competing brothers, Lin Mao Sen Tea Co. (林茂森茶行, #195-3, Section 2, Chongqing North Road, 8:30 AM to 9 PM) and Lin Huai Tea (林華泰茶行, #193, Section 2, Chongqing North Road, 7:30 AM to 9 PM), are my two top recommendations for buying tea in Taipei . They are next door to each other at the northeastern fringe of Dadaocheng.

Lin Mao Sen has a fancier shop, but both sell a very similar range of bulk Taiwanese teas, with similar price/quality levels, covering all the main popular Taiwanese varieties, with a minimum purchase of ¼ jin (斤, a traditional Chinese measurement), or 150g.

The workers in both shops speak English and can help you find what you need. These are my go-to shops for buying high quality, locally produced Taiwanese teas at a decent price, just don’t expect fancy boxes or packaging.

So that sums up my suggested Dihua Street walking tour! I hope you’ve found some useful information here. If you find something has changed, or feel I missed something great, please let me know in the comments below! Disclosure: This article was written in cooperation with MyProGuide tours.

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16 thoughts on “A Guide to Dihua Street in Dadaocheng, Taipei’s Oldest Street”

Raymond, Very interesting post my friend. I haven’t been to Taiwan since 1976. That was my last buying trip with Six Flags. Did you visit the National Palace Museum where all the artifacts are that were smuggled out by Chiang kai-shek before they were invaded in China? I spent an entire day taking photos, etc and probably could have spent an entire week! What a collection of various and valuable art.

Funny I also visited a taylor, just like others in my group and had 3 suits made. One was suede (remember we were all hippies at heart back then). I aslo bought several jewels that were made into rings in Hong Kong on this trip. The suits were ready in 24 hours and my rings actually took about a day and a half and the Gold was of inferior quality. Your post brought back so many memories for this old man. Thank you kindly from the bottom of my heart! Mike

Hi Raymond, I’m really glad to hear my post brought back some memories for you! Taipei must have been an incredibly different place in 1976. It’s hard for me to even imagine, though I’ve seen photos. Yes, I’ve been to the National Palace Museum a few times. Recently they had a really interesting exhibit in which they animated traditional Chinese scrolls on digital screen, so all the little characters on them came alive and were shuffling around. Really cool stuff. Thanks again for reading!

Thank you so much for this post! Makes me want to go back there again 🙂

You’re very welcome!

Hi Nick, I lived in Taipei for a few years 20+years ago, and can’t help going back to visit every few years…it’s the kind of place that definitely gets under one’s skin the more you get to know it! Thanks so much for your awesome posts – I am visiting again later this year and reading your suggested itineraries has made me even more excited to go back and rediscover parts of the city! I have found every time I go back things have changed and I think it just keeps getting better and better!

Thank you Julie! I’ve been here for 12 years and it has changed a lot; I can’t even imagine 20+ years ago! Enjoy your next visit!

Hi there! Very insightful post 🙂 How long does this walking tour take, assuming one doesnt rush through the sights and sounds? Thanks!

I would say you could budget about two hours for it if you walk quickly, or make that 3 hours+ if you stop for lunch, shopping, or any of the little museums

Hi Nick, Thanks so much for this Great website! I have literally spent hours reading, and copy pasting, your info to follow on our trip to Taiwan a couple of weeks from now, from very chilly Calgary. I’ve also learned about and checked Klook, withlocals and Fun Pass, Easy card etc etc. Thanks for the info on the closure of the puppet theatre, the 2 day suggested itinerary, walking tours of Di Hua Street, Ximending and Beitou Hot Springs and so many restaurant and food suggestions! I’m sure there is more because I haven’t finished reading everything I want to on your site yet. So many tips!! Thank you! Thank you! Rhonda

Hey Rhonda, thanks so much for the positive feedback, I’m really glad my site helped with your planning! And I’m writing to you know from Edmonton, so I feel your pain ha ha! -Nick

Hi Nick, What a GREAT website you’ve created!! Your thoroughness is so appreciated!! I’ve read most of the info you’ve written about Taipei & I’m trying to incorporate your 2 or 3 day itineraries to get in the most we can in a short time. My husband & I will be stopping in Taipei at the end of March on our way to Myanmar for a dive trip. We have the option of being there either 2-1/2 or 3-1/2 days. We’re not big on museums & we’ve seen our share of temples, that said we’d enjoy seeing them on our way to other things that would give us a taste of the Taiwanese culture. What would you do if you had to choose 4-6 things each day including meals? I’d so appreciate your input

Hi Mindy, thanks for your kind comments! Considering what you said, I’d recommend the following: Day 1: I’d recommending visiting Beitou, Guandu temple, and Danshui (Tamsui), as recommended in my itineraries, but minus the stop at National Palace Museum. These gives you a great combination of nature & culture, Beitou being historically significant, with some really cool old Japanese buildings, hot springs, and so on. I’d recommend having hot spring ramen at one of the two shop noodle shops there (all the details in my Beitou article). Depending on timing, you could eat dinner on the Tamsui riverside promenade, or hot Shilin Night Market (the biggest and most famous one) on your way back to to town. Day 2: You could start with exploring historic Dadaocheng (see this article), then walk or hop on the MRT to trendy Ximending (lots of great lunch options there, just window shop to decide!), followed by Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall and Longshan Temple (you said you don’t care too much about temples, but it’s an easy add on, and the city’s most important). For dinner you could try one of the smaller night markets if you haven’t had enough of night markets yet. If you added a third day, I would say definitely try to do a day trip from the city. It’s hard to recommend just one or two because there are so many possibilities; I’ve chosen 40 ideas in my Taipei Day trips article. For breakfasts you can’t go wrong with Taiwanese breakfast shops; they are everywhere (just walk down any residential street and you’ll find one) and they all have similar menus. I hope this helps, but let me know if you have any more specific questions, and feel free to join my “Taiwan Travel Planning” group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TaiwanTravelPlanning/

Sadly, I learned from the visitor’s center that the popsicle shop you mentioned is gone.

Thanks for letting me know!

This, by far, is the best and most comprehensive article that I have ever read as an intro to a must-see visitor experience. Having traveled to Taipei for about 40 years and having visited Dihua Street, you have hit every note precisely in this well written piece. Whether for first-time visitors or long-time residents, this is truly a must-see experience and you have done great justice in describing it.

Thanks so much, I’m really glad to hear that!

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We offer three free walking tours in Taipei. Old Town Taipei Tour will take you through the old town of Taipei, including 228 Peace Memorial Park, The Presidential Office, Our Inner City Market, Zhongshan Hall, Ximending, and The Red House. By visiting the popular sites and hidden corners of this city with our guides, you are guaranteed to have an interesting, informative and unforgettable tour!

If you’re tired of touristic spots, we heard you. It’s time to see the other side of Taipei. Join our Taipei Chill Out Tour while you’re in the chillest city in Asia. With the most unique route into real hangouts and neighborhood in the city, we guarantee an adventure into the heart of modern Taipei like no other. So take it easy, keep it cool, and head out on a stroll to hang out with the locals! 

Last but not least, if you’re wondering what’s going on in the mysterious local temple, join us on a journey back into the past! In our Longshan Temple Tour , together we'll travel back in time to 18 century Wanhua district, where Taipei city was founded! Our local guides will walk you through all the amazing stories of this ancient neighborhood. On top of that, we'll show you how to be a real Taiwanese by worshiping at Longshan temple! So join us for an extraordinary day or night out in this city!

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A Local’s Taipei Itinerary: How to Spend 1-5 Days in Taipei

Taipei is a multifaceted city brimming with deep-rooted history, a pulsating culture, incredible architecture, and a fantastic food scene. But with so many layers to uncover, things to do, and street food to taste, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when planning a Taipei itinerary.

To help you figure out what to do and where to go, I’ve compiled this  fully flexible   itinerary in Taipei for 1-5 days . It’s packed with must-do activities, places to see, and top tips to make the most of your time during your 5-day stay.

Ready to find the absolute best things to do in Taipei and see all Taiwan’s colorful capital city has to offer? Let’s go! 

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

How many days to spend in Taipei

While one could easily spend weeks in Taipei, not everyone has the luxury of unlimited time in this megacity. With 1 or 2 days in Taipei, you’ll be able to see the city’s most iconic sights. However, to really uncover the city’s DNA, I recommend staying at least 3-5 days in Taipei. 

Plan Your Taipei Trip

Before you start your Taipei itinerary, read my detailed guides to help you better understand the city.

• Travel Tips for Taipei
• Where to Stay in Taipei
• Getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei
• Taipei Nightlife guide
• Solo Traveler’s Guide to Taipei
• Best Taipei Side Trips

In a rush? Pin this itinerary for Taipei to read later.

Taipei Itinerary Essentials

Want to maximize your time in Taipei? Here are a few essentials you’ll need for a stress-free 5 days Taipei itinerary. 

• Taipei has oodles of hotels and hostels. For the best prices,  search accommodation  at least 2-3 weeks in advance. Alternatively, see my insider’s guide on the best hotels & areas to stay in Taipei .
• Taipei has two airports, Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) and Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). While Songshan is closer to Taipei, Taoyuan is the main international gateway. Read my quick guide on how to get to Taipei from Taoyuan Airport . Alternatively, book a private transfer straight to your accommodation for a stress-free trip. 
• Grab a  Taipei Fun Pass  to see all the Taipei must-see sights at a discount. 
• While there are more than 4400 Wifi hotspots in Taiwan, it’s worth spending a few extra dollars on a local  4G Sim Card , Pocket Wifi , or this E-sim . By doing so, you can plan all your stops and access maps, schedules, and translations on the go. 
• Make sure to pack a  travel umbrella  as frequent downpours aren’t uncommon in Taipei. This guide on what to pack for Taiwan will also come in handy.
• Grab a  Lonely Planet guidebook  for more tips and things to do. It’s packed with awesome recommendations and insights into the culture, history, and more.
• Need travel insurance for your trip?  SafetyWing is my go-to travel insurance provider.

How to get around during your Itinerary in Taipei

Taipei is a sprawling city. While it is an exceptionally walkable city, an efficient transport network is ready to whizz you off to all corners. To maximize your 5 days in Taipei, use a mix of transport methods to access the best of Taipei’s attractions. Here’s how to get around during your 5-day stay.  

• MRT:  Taipei has an extensive subway system called the MRT. Tickets are cheap and you can buy them at any MRT station. However, to save time, grab Taiwan’s local top-up card, the  Easy Card . With this card, you can tap and go on the MRT, buses, and regional trains. See the metro map here . Also check out my guide on useful Taiwan travel apps to have on your phone.
• HOP ON HOP OFF BUS:  The Taipei sightseeing bus is a great way to get a well-rounded glimpse of the city while ticking off your Taipei must-visit list. The bus stops at all the major tourist attractions on this Taipei itinerary. It’s also a fun way to see the city from a different angle. There are two routes, and  9hr or 24hr passes  are available. 
• BY BIKE:  YouBike is an official bike sharing system in Taiwan. It allows you to rent a bike for as little as NT$10 per 30 minutes. You’ll find an endless supply of bicycle-sharing kiosks allover Taipei City, too. These are conveniently located outside MRT stations and tourist spots. Just a head’s up, you’ll need an  Easy Card  and a local number to register for this service. For single rent users, you’ll need to pay a NT$2000 deposit with your credit card. 
• TAXI:  Yellow taxis can be spotted and flagged down all over Taipei. They are reasonably priced, starting at around NT$120 for the first 1.25km and then increase with NT$5 for every 200m. Between 11 pm to 6 am, rates start at NT$140. 
• UBER:  Uber is a great and cheap alternative to get around Taipei quickly. Make sure to download the Uber app before you arrive. 

Best Hotels and Hostels to stay during an Itinerary for Taipei

Luxury: W Taipei  is the best luxury hotel in Taipei. The 5-star property features beautiful, spacious rooms accompanied by terrific views. But even on top of that, you’ll be steps from the trendy bars, shops, and restaurants of Xinyi.  Check rates/ availability here . 

Mid-Range: Via Hotel  is a 3-star hotel that combines comfort and design. It’s the perfect choice for mid-range travelers who want to be right in the city center. What’s more, it offers easy access to Taipei Main Station, as well as oodles of shops and eateries.  Check rates/ availability here .  

Budget:   Star Hostel  is a chic hostel offering both private and dorm rooms at great prices. Located mere steps from the Taipei Main Station, it’s the perfect base if you want to be close to the main transport hub.  Check rates/ availability here .  

Taipei Itinerary Quick Overview

Day 1 in Taipei:  Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall >> Longshan Temple >> Taipei 101 >> Elephant Mountain >> Raohe Night Market

Taipei Day 2:  Dihua Street >> North Gate >> Ximending >> Huashan 1914 Creative Park >> Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall >> Stroll the streets of Daan

Day 3 in Taipei:  National Palace Museum >> Beitou Hot Springs >> Tamsui >> Shilin Night Market

Taipei Day 4:  Yehliu Geopark >> Shifen >> Jiufen 

Day 5 in Taipei:  Taipei Zoo >> Maokong Mountain >> Taipei Fine Arts Museum >> Addiction Aquatic Development

Want to see the city’s best attractions without planning a thing? Check out this  city tour ,  night tour ,  walking tour , or this  popular sights private charter .

The Perfect Itinerary for Taipei: What to do in Taipei in 1-5 Days

Whether you have one day in Taipei or many, the city is jam-packed with places to see and fun things to do. 

Below you’ll find my top recommendations on how to spend up to 5 days in Taipei. I’ve included all the must-see attractions, iconic landmarks, and even a few hidden gems for those who’d like to experience Taipei’s quirky side! 

Throughout this Taipei itinerary, you’ll also get handy tips to help you experience the best of Taipei. With that said, though, feel free to mix things up as you see fit.

1 Day Taipei Itinerary

With only 1 day in Taipei, trying to figure out where to go and what to do in a megacity like Taipei can be challenging. While one day is not nearly enough to see all the city has to offer, it will allow ample time to get a taste of Taipei’s top attractions. Here are the best things to do in Taipei in 1 day. 

Oh, and travel tip – make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes . You have a lot of ground to cover on your first day! 

Get a glimpse into the past at Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

Kickstart your 1 day Taipei itinerary with a visit to the city’s most iconic square – Liberty Square ( 中正紀念堂廣場) .

Featuring neatly kept gardens, this sprawling area is home to the National Theater , the National Concert Hall , and of course, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall (中正紀念堂).

Besides strolling the beautiful grounds and taking Instagrammable photos, it’s also a great spot to get a better understanding of Taiwan’s complex history. 

Within the main hall, browse the exhibitions and learn more about the country’s liberation struggles. Afterward, climb the 89 steps leading to the massive statue memorializing Chiang, Taiwan’s first president. It’s also worth watching the changing of the guards’ ceremony, which happens every hour on the hour. Entrance to Liberty Square, as well as Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, is free. 

Insider’s Tips:  If time permits, take a stroll over to the  Presidential Palace  (中華民國總統府). It was built during the Japanese Colonial era and has a gorgeous red brick exterior and large balconies. Today, it serves as the workplace of Taiwan’s president. Join the free guided tour (weekdays only) to get a glimpse of the inside. Afterward, take a stroll through the serene  2/28 Peace Memorial Park  (二二八和平公園). The park commemorates the victims of the anti-government uprising movement in 1947. Don’t miss the huge memorial monument at the center of the park! The nearby memorial museum also offers more insights into Taiwan’s turbulent past. 

Experience the Culture at Longshan Temple

Next up on your Taipei itinerary, head to Taipei’s most famous religious complex, Longshan Temple (龍山寺). Dating back to 1737, Longshan Temple is one of the most famous landmarks in Taiwan and a great place to get acquainted with Chinese folk religion. To this day, locals journey from near and far to make prayers and wish for good fortune in these incense-filled halls. 

Right near the entrance, you can relish in the local custom of throwing moon blocks . Make sure to throw these tiny blocks in unison. The way they fall will reveal whether the gods favor you or not. 

There is no entrance fee for Longshan Temple. But please remember to dress appropriately as this is still a place of worship. 

Insider’s Tips:  A short stroll from here, head to the  Bopiliao Historical Block  (剝皮寮歷史街區) where you’ll find stacks of 18th-century houses. To learn more about the area’s history, you can also join this free  walking tour . Afterward, browse the  Huaxi Street Market  (華西街觀光夜市) filled with weird and interesting traditional snacks. Or better yet, join this  fun food tour . Just a word of caution; this is Taipei’s red-light district and it can be a bit seedy at night. Although Taipei is a very safe city, I wouldn’t recommend visiting here late at night if you are a solo female traveler.  

Take in the Views Atop Taipei 101  

In Xinyi, often dubbed as the Times Square of Taipei, you’ll find one of Asia’s most iconic landmarks – Taipei 101 (台北101). 

This imposing bamboo-shaped skyscraper towers 509m above the city and showcases exceptional design inside and out. Taipei 101 also houses the world’s 3 rd fastest elevator, traveling at a speed of 1,010 meters per minute. It is the most prominent landmark in the city, rightly deserving a spot on your Taipei itinerary.

Within the tower, you can browse the world’s best luxury stores. These include the likes of Bvlgari, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Patek Philippe, to name just a few!

But arguably, the best thing to do here is get a bird’s-eye view over the entire city. Once you’re done browsing the stores, head to the Observation Deck. Besides taking in the excellent vistas, don’t miss getting a close-up look at the massive damper housed here. The damper weighs a whopping 660 tons and stabilizes the tower during strong winds or typhoons.

Just a word of warning – the Observation Deck’s lines are always long, and one could easily queue for hours. Grab a fast track pass to skip the lines. 

Insider’s Tips:  While here, don’t miss Taiwan’s very own Michelin Star restaurant  Din Tai Fung  (鼎泰豐). The eatery serves up the juiciest xiao long bao ever! If time permits, take a stroll through the lively  Att 4 Fun  (信義店) pedestrian area. Here you’ll find loads of trendy hangouts, hip bars, Taipei’s coolest clubs, and great shopping hotspots. A few blocks further, explore the  Breeze Songgao Store  (微風松高) filled with shops, hip food trucks, and restaurants. There’s a great vibe here, so don’t skip it! 

Catch the sunset at Elephant Mountain

Just one stop down the MRT Red Line is one of Taipei’s most Instagrammable places – Elephant Mountain (象山) 

Popular among sunset chasers and nature seekers alike, Elephant Mountain offers spectacular views over the entire city bowl. While it’s quite a steep trek to the view points, the sights along the way will be more than enough reward. 

Depending on your fitness level, it takes about 20 minutes to reach the first observation platform. For the best views, though, continue on a bit further. There you can scramble up on the boulders and snap an iconic selfie with the entire city as your backdrop.

Feast at Raohe Night Market

After a day out exploring all Taipei’s iconic sights, it’s time to sample some of the city’s best street food. And the best place to do just that is at Raohe Night Market (饒河街觀光夜市).

Raohe is one of the most famous night markets in Taiwan , and no Taipei itinerary would be complete without a visit here. The best part? There are loads of street food snacks to try. These include bubble milk tea, grilled squid, fried chicken steak, pepper pork buns, and stinky tofu. Prefer to visit with a guide? Here’s a great Raohe night market tour .

Besides filling up with all the delicious food, it’s also a great place to bargain hunt. You’ll find everything from clothes, cellphone accessories, bags, earrings, and more here! If you’re looking to squeeze in a bit of shopping, the nearby maze-like alleyways of  Wufenpu  (五分埔) is for you. Here you’ll find tons of cheap clothing stores selling the latest Korean and Japanese fashion trends. It’s also a great place to practice your haggling during your itinerary in Taipei. 

2 Day Taipei Itinerary

With 2 days in Taipei, you can get a closer look at the city’s quirky pop culture, visit a few more historical sites, and of course, relish in its bustling food scene. 

Follow my sample itinerary above, and then on day 2 check out these cool places in Taipei. 

Browse the historic Dihua Street 

Start your morning bright and early with a visit to one of the city’s best-preserved streets, Dihua (迪化街).

Right in the heart of Datong, you’ll find a bunch of restored buildings dating back to the 1800s. It’s a great place to stroll, people watch and of course, get acquainted with authentic Taipei. Don’t miss the bustling market that sells a mix of weird and wonderful food, teas, spices, as well as traditional Chinese medicinal products.

After taking in the sights and sounds of Dihua Street, make a quick photo stop at the impressive 19th century  North Gate  (臺北府城 北門), which was built as part of the city’s fortifications. 

Enjoy the vibe at Ximending Walking District

Next up, head over to the massive pedestrian walking street of Ximending (西門町).

Ximending is a bustling youth district on the western side of Taipei City, rightly nicknamed the Shibuya or Harajuku of Taipei. With hip clothing stores, brightly-lit billboards, themed cafes like Modern Toilet (便所主題餐廳 西門店), and alleyways dotted with the city’s best street art, it’s not hard to see why its such a firm favorite among tourists and locals alike. All in all, Ximending is a great place to stroll around, shop, eat, hunt for street art, and people watch.

Another noteworthy attraction to check out while here is the  Red House Theatre  (西門紅樓), which showcases cheap live performances.  Ningxia Night Market  (寧夏夜市) is also just around the corner and is another great Taipei night market. Join this cool Michelin night tour at Ningxia  to sample the best street food on offer here! 

Check out the Quirky Displays at Huashan 1914 Creative Park

Built in 1914, Huashan Creative Park (華山1914文化創意產業園區) has quite a unique history. It was once a Japanese sake brewery, and then later a camphor refinery. Today, the park is the city’s most prominent art center and a popular go-to spot among art lovers and those looking to escape Taipei’s concrete jungle. 

There are several buildings to browse filled with cute artisan shops, designer stores, bookshops, as well as several gourmet eateries and hipster hangouts. Don’t miss the cool outdoor art displays dotted around sprawling gardens. 

Stroll through Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall

After getting a taste of Taipei’s artsy side, head over to Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (國立國父紀念館). It is one of Taipei’s most important historical buildings and another interesting place to learn a little about Taiwan’s history. 

The memorial hall was built in 1972 to honor Taiwan’s founding father, Sun Yat-sen. The main structure features intricate architecture and is surrounded by lovely gardens, which also house a massive fountain. Within its walls, you’ll find varied exhibitions offering insight into Sun’s life and his revolution efforts.

Insider’s tips:  Nearby, take a gentle stroll through the city’s largest park  Daan Forest Park  (大安森林公園). Alternatively, head over to  JenGuo Flower Market  or  Jianguo Jade Market  (建國玉市). Both are excellent places to shop for souvenirs and quirky trinkets. The buzzing alleyways jolting off from  Lane 137, Yanji Street  are just a stone’s throw from here and are chock-full with hipster hangouts, themed cafes, hidden izakayas, and posh international eateries. If you’re not hungry, it’s still an excellent place for a walkabout or to grab a cuppa. If you’re seeking a boozy cocktail, head out to the Instagrammable  Drunk Cafe  (爛醉咖啡). Alternatively, grab an ice-cold beer at the city’s best craft beer bar,  On Tap . 

Taipei 3 Days Itinerary

If you have 3 days in Taipei, you’ll have more than enough time to explore the far-flung corners of the city and get a closer look at a few more must-see attractions. Follow the steps above and on day 3 of your Taipei itinerary, head out to these places below. 

Browse the National Palace Museum 

Start your day early with a visit to one of the city’s most iconic museums, the National Palace Museum (國立故宮博物院).

Housing more than 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts, artworks, and relics, spanning over 8000 years of history, the museum holds the world’s most complete Chinese artifacts collection. The National Palace museum is a treasure trove for history buffs and art enthusiasts, rightly deserving a spot on any Taipei itinerary! 

The museum entrance fee is NT$350, but since the lines are always long, it’s worth grabbing a  discounted e-ticket here  in advance. 

Visit Beitou Hot Springs

Most visitors to Taipei don’t know that actual volcanoes are right within the city’s limits. So next up on your itinerary in Taipei, immerse yourself in nature with a visit to the steamy thermal pools of Beitou Hot Springs (北投溫泉).

Beitou  is one of Taipei’s most popular side trips, and it’s not hard to understand why. Surrounded by lush greenery and the allure of abundant hot springs is what really makes this Japanese-inspired retreat such a popular go-to spot among locals and those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban Taipei. This picture-perfect setting is perfect spot to unwind!

If you’re not checking in at one of the luxurious hot spring hotels, like  Grand View Resort , head out to one of the outdoor public baths to experience the geothermal activity like a local. 

Other things to do in Beitou include visiting the  Beitou Thermal Valley  or “Hell Valley” (地熱谷), the  Beitou Hot Spring Museum  (北投溫泉博物館), the  Beitou Museum  (北投文物館) and the  Xinbeitou Historic Station  (新北投車站).

For a unique experience, enjoy a traditional Japanese ceremony at the  Taiwan Folk Arts Museum  (北投文物館), visit the  Ketagalan Culture Center  (凱達格蘭文物館), or stop by one of the incense-filled temples like  Puji Temple  (北投普濟寺). 

Looking to get off the beaten path? Head out to one of Taipei’s best-hidden gems –  Wulai  (烏來). Wulai is an aboriginal village neatly tucked away in the mountains. Here you can soak in hot springs, hunt for waterfalls, eat traditional Atayal food, and take a fun ride on the cutest little train ever! Read my guide on  what to do in Wulai . 

Wander the streets of Tamsui

After enjoying a slice of nature, head out to Tamsui (淡水) – a scenic little town located on the Tamsui River banks right at the edge of Taipei City. 

Tamsui, also often spelled Danshui, has a lot going for it. From a bustling Old Street chock-full with cute artisan stores, souvenir shops, and vendors serving up the freshest seafood imaginable to several historical sites and a booming craft beer scene. But even on top of that, the star attraction here is the incredible sunset. 

While you can catch an epic sunset from anywhere along the boardwalk, the best spot to watch the sun melt away over the horizon is at Lover’s Bridge . It’s a popular spot among love birds and photographers, so expect it to fill up quickly!

Oh, and don’t miss stopping by the incredible Wuji Tianyuan Temple if you happen to visit Taipei during cherry blossom season.

Insider’s Tip: For those traveling between Hongshulin and Fishermen’s Wharf , the newly built Tamsui light rail line is a fun way to explore the area. The Blue Seaside Line, which will connect the Tamsui MRT and the Fisherman’s Wharf is scheduled to be completed in 2024.

Eat your way through Shilin Night Market

The last stop on your 3 days in Taipei itinerary is Shilin Night Market (士林夜市). 

Shilin is a bustling place jam-packed with food vendors and stalls selling all kinds of bits and bobs. What’s more, it is probably the best and most popular street food market in Taipei! It’s the perfect spot to sample local street snacks and authentic Taiwanese cuisine. 

Since the area really only comes alive at night, make sure to time your visit here. Whatever you do, though, come hungry, because there are lots to try! 

Taipei 4 Day itinerary

With so much to do in Taipei, it’s hard to get bored. But beyond the buzzing urban hub, there are a handful of must-see places worth a visit. So, on day 4 of your Taipei itinerary, it’s time to explore the city’s outskirts! Think quaint little towns, lush jungles dotted with waterfalls, epic ocean views, and great hiking opportunities! 

Visit the rock formations at Yehliu

Yehliu Geopark (野柳地質公園)   is a unique place along Taiwan’s north   coast that’s well worth a visit. Fringed by the Pacific Ocean, this massive geopark is home to cool fossils and the weirdest rock formations imaginable. Some of the most notable rock forms to look out for are the Queen’s Head, Fairy’s Shoe, Bean Curd, and Dragon Head. 

Yehliu is a great place to stroll around, take in the incredible ocean views and scenery, and of course, hunt for bizarre rock formations. Don’t forget your  camera , because you’ll want to take lots of photos of this alien-like wonderland! 

Insider’s Tips:  There is a small entrance fee (NT$120) to enter the park, but you can also grab an entry ticket online in advance. While it’s relatively straightforward to visit Yehliu independently, joining a day tour will save you the hassle of planning a thing. Another good option is this  tour which includes a pastry making sesh. If you have your own set of wheels, also check out the Twin Candlesticks and Shen’ao Elephant Rock nearby.

See Taiwan’s widest waterfall 

Just 32 kilometers northwest of Taipei City, lies Taiwan’s very own mini version of Niagara Falls measuring 40m in width – Shifen Falls (十分瀑布).

The waterfall is tucked away amid a lush jungle setting, and there are tons of lookout points covering all angles of the waterfall. It’s an incredibly scenic place to visit and the perfect choice for those wanting to spend a day immersed in nature.

I’ve written an extensive guide on Shifen , which includes absolutely everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful area – from how to easily get there to what to do in the quaint little town, as well as other cool places to check out nearby. If you prefer to join a guided tour,  this one  is a great half-day option. 

Wander the lantern-filled alleys of Jiufen

A visit to Taipei (or Taiwan as a matter of fact) would simply not be complete without a trip to Jiufen (九份). Located not too far from Shifen, this gorgeous little town is perched on a hillside and offers epic views over the ocean and mountains.

While the views are incredible and stand testament to Taiwan’s mind-blowing natural scenery, there is yet another reason to add Jiufen to your Taipei itinerary. Often touted as the inspiration to Miyazaki’s Spirited Away, Jiufen’s true charm lies in its rustic alleyways strewn with dangling red lanterns, charming traditional teahouses, hot spring hotels, and phenomenal food scene. 

While most people visit here on a half-day trip from Taipei, I highly recommend staying overnight if you can. The night view is absolutely breathtaking! And if you love photography, you could easily spend hours wandering through the little alleyways. Also read my guide on how to get from Taipei to Jiufen for the easiest routes there.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, hike up  Keelung Mountain  (雞籠山登山步道) or join this  Jiufen Village tour  to see other highlights like the  Golden Waterfall and the Ying Yan Sea  (陰陽海). 

Itinerary for Taipei 5 Days

On the final day of your Taipei 5 days itinerary, enjoy a different side of the city surrounded by greenery right in the heart of town. Pop by the zoo, take a thrilling gondola ride, and see some of the world’s finest artworks on display. Then, end your day with a massive feast at the city’s top seafood market. 

Meet furry friends at Taipei Zoo

If you’re visiting Taipei with kids, it’s worth stopping by the Taipei Zoo (臺北市立動物園). The zoo is the largest zoological garden in Taiwan, and is home to more than 2000 animals from various species, including pandas and koalas! 

While it is one of the city’s top attractions, the grounds are massive, making it quite easy to get away from the crowds and enjoy the varied animal life at your leisure. If you plan on spending several hours year, pack a picnic basket to enjoy on the grass. Grab a Taipei Zoo combo ticket here to skip the lines. 

Enjoy a tea ceremony at Maokong

After visiting the zoo’s furry friends, head over to the Maokong Gondola to  take a fun ride in a glass-bottom car  over the mountain tops. Besides enjoying the views below your feet, the views of the city’s skyscraper-studded skyline in the distance are just as magnificent. 

Once at the top, pop into cute coffee shops or tea houses offering  authentic tea ceremonies  and traditional Taiwanese fare with sprawling tea plantations at their doorstep.  

Browse Taipei Fine Arts Museum

If you still want to squeeze in another activity before dinner time, hop back on the MRT to Yuanshan Station and head over to the Taipei Fine Arts Museum (臺北市立美術館). 

Here you’ll find some of the best local and international artwork displayed in an impressive geometrical building. The museum showcases more than 5000 pieces of traditional and contemporary art, but I highly recommend checking out the photography section. The entrance fee is NT$30, and the museum is open until 20:30 on Saturdays. 

Insider’s Tips: If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Taipei, a stroll through the dreamy Floral Tunnel (花之隧道) or a visit to the Lin An Tai Historical House and Museum (林安泰古厝) should not be overlooked.

Enjoy the vibes at AAD

On the last night of your 5 days Taipei itinerary, head over to the city’s best indoor seafood market – Addiction Aquatic Development (上引水產). 

This massive complex is home to several eateries, dishing up everything from hot pot and barbecued skewers to melt-in-the-mouth sashimi, huge crabs and more. 

There’s also an incredible deli where you can buy all kinds of imported goods, tasty snacks, fresh seafood and Kobe beef. 

AAD gets quite lively at night, so don’t come too late. If the restaurants are packed, grab a few snacks at the deli instead. There are many seating areas scattered around the market where you can sit back and enjoy your food. Also, don’t miss the sangria! It’s the best you’ll find in the city! 

5 Days Itinerary in Taipei Conclusion

Taipei is truly a remarkable city with plenty to keep you busy. I hope this Taipei travel itinerary has helped you figure out what to do and where to go in Taipei!

That wraps up this Taipei itinerary for 5 days or less. Do you have any tips for fellow travelers planning an itinerary in Taipei? Feel free to share your top tips and epic things to do in Taipei below! 

Need More Help Planning a Taiwan Trip?

• 2 weeks in Taiwan
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• Alishan Travel Travel Guide  
• Kaohsiung 2 days itinerary
• Taitung Travel Guide

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October 9, 2023 at

Hello I am still confused of what to see in Taiwan…ours is pure cultural no adventure no beach. Can u help…with an itinerary For 7 nites..with 1/2 free days to walk around. Thanks Wynoma de Faria

October 11, 2023 at

Hey Wynoma,

Even if you’re looking for a more culturally oriented itinerary, there’s loads to do in Taiwan. With seven nights, you’ll have more than enough time to venture outside of Taipei and see a bit more of the island. Here’s some inspo:

– Spend 2-3 days in Taipei and visit the museums and temples. Check out the National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, and Taipei 101. Also, be sure to visit some of the night markets like Shilin or Raohe. – Take a day trip from Taipei to Jiufen. – Spend a day in Tainan (Taiwan’s ancient capital city). Visit Chihkan Tower, Koxinga Shrine, Anping Old Street, and the Anping Tree House. – Travel to Kaohsiung for 1-2 days and visit the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center, the temples and pavilions at Lotus Pond, and the Pier 2 Art Center.

Of course, there are loads more to see and do, but if you’re not really into nature/ adventure, the spots above should tick your boxes. Hope this helps!

December 19, 2023 at

Hello, I’m planning to visit Yehliu Geopark, Shifen and Jiufen for a whole day. I plan to go in that order and travel by public transport/taxi if needed, can you recommend me some bus/mrt I should take to go those places.

January 19, 2024 at

Hey Wendy, it might be tough to squeeze all three places in on one day, but if you start super early and make use of taxis/Uber it might be doable.

You can catch Kuo-Kuan Bus 1815 from TPE Bus Station. The journey takes about 1h30. From there, I’d suggest getting a taxi/Uber to the Ruifang Train Station so that you can catch the train Shifen. You can check with the driver if he’s willing to take you all the way to Shifen but it’s quite rural and it will be pricy. From Shifen, you’ll need to catch the train back to Ruifang from where you’ll need to get a bus to Jiufen. There aren’t many taxis in Shifen, but just walk around and ask the locals. We got a taxi there once and it saved us the hassle of dealing with public transport. It was rather expensive though for such a short distance.

Google Maps works extremely well in TW and once you have an idea of your timings it will give you the best options on which buses/ trains to take. Just make sure you check the timings of the last bus/train. Here’s a link to the TRA website if you want to get a better idea of the train schedules in the meantime.

January 17, 2024 at

I am traveling alone to Taiwan for 7D, possible to purchase a local day trip to Jiufengand Sifen Falls, another day trip to Tainan, and the third day to Sun Moon Lake? Please give me your suggestion.

Hey Sue, Jiufen and Shifen are popular day trips from TPE and there are loads of guided tours that will get you there (check on Klook).

Tainan is accessible from Taipei and the HSR (bullet train) can get you there is less than 2hrs. Here’s my guide on how to get to Tainan from Taipei . For SML, the best way to get there is to first take the HSR to Taichung where you can catch the bus to SML. I’ve written a guide on that too, see here . Just a side note, Tainan and SML are both really great places to visit with lots to do, so I recommend spending at least 2D1N in each to make the most of your time there.

February 15, 2024 at

Hello, I’m planning to visit Yehliu Geopark, Shifen and Jiufen for a whole day with my wife and would like to take a private tour (so that we can be flexible with the timing etc). Can you recommend any reliable companies that offer private tours? Thank you very much.

Hey TH, thanks for stopping by.

My go-to provider for tours in Taiwan is Klook . They have a wide selection of tours, so it’s easy to find the right option that suits your schedule and budget. (Here’s my affiliate link to all the tours they have to Yehliu, Jiufen & Shifen )

Alternatively, you can also check out this tour on GetYourGuide which has an option for a private tour.

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Home » Asia » Taiwan » Taipei

EPIC Taipei Itinerary • Plan Your Trip in 2024 (ATTRACTION GUIDE)

Taipei, the magnificent capital city of Taiwan, offers all the magic and wonder that we’ve come to expect from the cities of Southeast Asia and the far east! This city is a modern metropolis mixing Western, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

The city is known for its numerous street-markets including some famous street-foods that we’ve all come to love. The heart of this thriving city is, of course, its people! Getting to know the people behind the culture will go a long way while visiting this incredible destination!

If the bustling city is not your thing, there are heaps more things to do in Taipei than just explore its metropolis! Just outside of Taipei you’ll find thriving, luscious jungle terrain that seems untouched by human hands. Nature-lovers and city loathers will be able to craft an entirely different and unique itinerary for Taipei!

Whatever it is you’re looking for on your travels, Taipei is bound to provide! Here’s the latest and greatest, as well as the most ancient of relics, that the city has to offer – all packed into the one-stop Taipei itineary !

A Little Bit About this 3 Day Taipei Itinerary

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Taiwan has a unique history and culture that you won’t find anywhere else in Asia. The Taipei night markets and delicious street food scene are also something to be embraced.

It has something for every traveler: hot springs, incredible national parks, and world-class museums. You’ll never run out of things to do in Taiwan!

Whether you’re backpacking Taiwan or just planning a mini 3 day Taipei itinerary, there are some phenomenal options jostling for a spot on your list! I’d personally suggest taking at least two-three full days to explore the city.

If you want to see all of the important landmarks you could fit everything into 24 hours. But that guarantees a lot of stress. There are scenic spots on the outskirts of the city, that you should take your time to see.

In this itinerary, you’ll find three days packed with culture, history, and adventure. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rush from A to B trying to fit everything in.

I’ve chosen the ideal daily structure, added times, routes to get there and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot. Of course, you can add your own spots in, swap things around, or even skip some places. Use this itinerary as inspiration instead of a fixed plan to get the most out of your trip!

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3-Day Taipei Itinerary Overview

• Day One: Visit Bopiliao Old Street | Reboot at The Cat Coffee Garden | Visit Taipei 101 | Admire Taipei 101 from Elephant Mountain | Sunset at Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf
• Day Two: Visit the National Palace Museum | Visit the Liberty Square | Visit the Daan Forest Park | Visit the Huashan 1914 Creative Park | Visit the Thermal Valley | Let a Bird Tell Your Fortune
• Day Three: Pingxi Lantern Release | Spend a night in Ximending | Visit the Wufenpu District | Take your own Temple Tour

Choosing where to stay in Taipei is easy. It offers a diverse range of accommodation for every type of traveler!

Taipei itself is very budget-friendly, especially when it comes to accommodation choices. But don’t let that fool you! If you’re looking for something a little fancier, Taipei offers plenty of luxury accommodation too.

Taipei is divided into twelve districts. Xinyi is Taipei’s financial district and is a bustling hub of activity 24 hours a day.

If you’re into the city-that-never-sleeps kind of vibe, then Xinyi is the district for you! The shopping and restaurant options are limitless!

Wenshan is a district of Taipei, but is nestled in between the mountain ranges and feels far removed from the bustling city. If you’re looking for some great views of the natural surroundings, look no further.

It’s also great if you’re looking for some good ol’ peace and quiet! Wenshan is not very popular with tourists; it’s visited mainly by locals looking for a break from the city. They do, however, welcome tourists with open arms!

Best Hostel in Taipei – Meander Taipei

The Meander Taipei Hostel is arguably one of the best hostel in Taiwan ! Great interior design gives the hostel a very modern feel. Large, open communal areas encourage visitors to bond and make friends. This makes it a great place to stay, especially for solo travelers!

Their rooftop terrace is a great place for socials and mingling! Sleeping areas are very private for a hostel setting and give you the ability to spend some time by yourself.

Best Airbnb in Taipei – Charming Room in Prime Location

Located in the heart of Taipei this cosy little studio is a perfect choice.

Right in Ximen, you are just a few steps away from lots of the best restaurants, boutiques, cafes, and charm that you come to Taipei to see. You can’t beat the price with everything this room has and it’s a perfect base for enjoying your ultimate Taipei itinerary! If you want to stay at one of the overall best Airbnbs in Taipei , look no further than this home.

Best Budget Hotel in Taipei – Cho Hotel 3

This quaint hotel is the perfect place to stay in Taipei if you’re on a budget but you’re not sure about the hostels in Taipei . Neat, clean, and modern looking room designs make for a lovely dwelling while you’re staying in Taipei!

The hotel offers 24-hour service, so you’ll never feel neglected or alone! The location of the Cho Hotel 3 is a great plus. Located right next to a subway station, you are within easy reach of all the best sites in Taipei. Plus, you’ll be close to the Red House, Huaxi Street Tourist Night Market and Qingshan Temple. With so much action happening all around you, you’ll cut your travel costs during your stay in half by choosing this conveniently-placed dwelling!

Best Luxury Hotel in Taipei – Mandarin Oriental Taipei

This luxury hotel leaves nothing left for you to desire! If you decide to stay at the Mandarin Oriental Taipei you may just never leave the hotel. This gorgeous hotel boasts great service and the facilities lack nothing!

A full fitness center, equipped with a sauna and yoga classes, is available if you need to work out while staying in Taipei. The location is just a 5-minute drive from the airport and a mere 10-minute drive from the shopping district!

The first day of this Taipei itinerary will take you through some of the best places to visit : Old Taiwan history, stunning nature spots, and of course, indulge in some uniquely Taiwanese culture as well.

9:00AM – Visit Bopiliao Old Street

Feel like you’re stepping back in time as you visit this ancient portion of Taipei city. The houses on Bopiliao Old Street were built during the Qing dynasty – between 1600 and 1900. If you want culture, this is a great place to check out Taiwan’s cultural history!

This block is also a great place to take some photos, so enter the scene, camera ready! You’ll get the chance to explore the streets by yourself and chat with the people that live there. This is often the best way to add value to your experience of a city!

Ji Yuan Vegetarian is a great little spot just a 2-minute drive from Bopiliao old street! It serves all vegetarian food, as is a tradition in Taiwan, but it’s incredibly tasty and can be enjoyed by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

On your way into the Old Town, make sure to stop by the Longshan temple, a Taipei confucius temple that is ornately decorated and beautiful.

• Getting there: From Taipei Main Station, take the MRT to Lungshan Temple Station and walk from there.
• How long should I spend there: Around 1-2 hours should be enough time.

10.30AM – Reboot at The Cat Coffee Garden

Studies show that spending time with cats can lower your risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. So if you’re looking for an excuse to visit the incredible Kitten Coffee Garden, I’ve just given you one: your general health and well being!

Although I wouldn’t necessarily promote animal tourism , I think these cats are very playful and enjoy a lot of attention. So open your heart but don’t overstep the line.

If you’re more of a dog person, I totally understand, and I’m happy to let you know that you’re in for a treat too. There just so happens to be two very friendly dogs that live amongst the cats in the Kitten Coffee Garden.

Food is available at the Kitten Coffee Garden, so be sure to try one of their many delicious Japanese meals. Make sure you order a coffee at the Kitten Coffee Garden, just like everything else there, it’s cat-themed. Be sure to snap a pic for the ‘gram.

• Cost: Free, but be sure to buy a coffee or a snack while you’re there.
• Getting there: It takes 45 minutes from the last stop. Take the MRT to Zhishan MRT Station and walk.
• How long should I spend there: an hour is probably enough time.

Insider Tip: if you’re wanting to go on a family trip, note that children aren’t allowed in the Kitten Coffee Garden. They don’t advertise this fact so it’s important to note before adding it to your Taipei itinerary if you’re traveling with the kiddos.

11.30AM – Visit Taipei 101

Taipei 101 houses many offices and restaurants, and is connected to an adjoining mall. Being so big, it could take you all day to explore, but considering everything else Taipei has to offer, we recommend limiting your shopping time to just a few hours!

If you’d like to spend a whole day here, there are many restaurants and shops to be explored. (Because damn your Taipei itinerary; there’s shopping to be done!) While you’re at it, be sure to buy an extra bag as you’re sure to be leaving Taipei with more luggage than you arrived with!

This incredible skyscraper was once the world’s tallest building! It held this record from the year it was built, in 2004, until 2010 when a skyscraper in Dubai snatched the title.

What makes this building even more fascinating, is its ability to withstand pacific rim earthquakes!

• Cost: Free!
• Getting there: Ride the MRT for 20 minutes. Take the Tamsui-Xinyi line to Zhishan MRT Station.
• How long should I spend there: Unless you want to go up the tower, it shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes to see and get some photos.

1:00PM – Admire Taipei 101 from Elephant Mountain

So you’ve heard all about how incredible Taipei 101 is. But going there isn’t the only way to enjoy its incredible beauty.

The trail up elephant mountain requires a bit of a climb but the view is well worth it. You’ll get to choose from 3 amazing spots with great views.

If you’re not up for too much of a climb, a short set of stairs leading from the parking lot will lead you to your first spot. This is a great spot for picnics or sundowners, as you won’t have to carry your heavy picnic basket very far.

This hike is absolutely free! This means you won’t have to buy a ticket, and hiking at any time is permitted. Night hikes are also becoming increasingly popular because the views of the city that much better!

The best view of all is the one you’ll get of the great Taipei 101. Viewing this great engineering feat from Elephant mountain gives you a great view of the beautiful skyscraper and the twinkling lights of the city below.

If you’re traveling with your better half, this is a Taipei itinerary romantic must-do! It’s not often you get to look down on a bustling lit-up city from a secluded, quiet, and tranquil setting!

• Getting there: it’s a 30-minute hike from the last spot.
• How long should I spend there: You could spend anywhere from 1-2 hours admiring the view.

7:00PM – Sunset at Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf

Known for its sunsets, party boats and seafood, the Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf is an incredible place to spend your evening! Make an evening of it and sip sundowners near the harbor wall. Watching the sunset from this location is nothing less than epic, as myriads of purples, pinks, and reds fill the sky!

We only get to experience around 25, 000 sunsets in our lifetime, (if we’re lucky) so be sure to watch at least one of them from this incredible spot! Regret is the biggest killer of happiness, don’t let this one get you down!

• Getting there: Ride the 757 bus from Elephant Mountain for 2.5 hours.
• How long should I spend there: Spend as long as you want! But it is a long way out of town, so allow yourself plenty of time to get back to your accommodation.

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The second day of this 3 day Taipei itinerary will take you to incredible museums and some not-to-miss nature spots.

9:00AM – Visit the National Palace Museum

The Taipei National Palace Museum houses 700 000 ancient Chinese imperial artefacts and artworks! Some of these are high-quality artefacts that were collected by Chinese emperors. This collection spans over 8000 years of history!

There is nothing more beautiful than experiencing and getting to take in the incredibly delicate Chinese culture and cultural history of Taipei. Spend a few hours taking pictures and enjoying the artwork, this is definitely an experience you’ll want to remember!

• Cost: $1 – $2
• Getting there: Take the MRT to Shilin MRT station and then the 255 shuttle bus to the palace.
• How long should I spend there: It’s a huge complex so it could take anywhere from 2-3 hours to see it all.

11:00AM – Visit the Liberty Square

Explore the rich history hidden within the city of Taipei! Although this city is developing very fast, there are still pieces of history scattered throughout the city! In Liberty Square, you’ll find many historical buildings including the national concert hall, the theatre, and the Chiang Kai Shek memorial hall.

All of these places have a rich cultural history embedded in them that is so worth taking the time to learn about. The architecture is nothing less than spectacular with very obvious oriental influences!

• Getting there: Take the 255 bus back to Shilin MRT station and then ride the Tamsui-Xinyi line to Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall MRT station, and walk from there.
• How long should I spend there: You could spend around 1-2 hours walking around the garden complex.

1:00PM – Visit the Daan Forest Park

The Daan Forest Park covers an impressive 26-hectares of land. This park acts as the lung of Taipei city, producing clean air for its inhabitants. Daan forest contains 2 ponds, a walking path, and an amphitheater – it’s the perfect place to take a stroll!

Expect to see plenty of squirrels and ducks when you’re out and about, amongst the twisted trees. If you enjoy spending time in nature, take some bread crumbs, sit by the pond, and feed the ducks!

The squirrels tend to be rather friendly and may even eat out of your hand. Take some nuts with you, and if you’re lucky, you may experience hand-feeding a squirrel, which would make a very cute little memory to add to your list!

• Getting there: it’s a 20-minute walk from the last stop.
• How long should I spend there: You could spend 1-2 hours here if you really wanted to!

2:00PM – Visit the Huashan 1914 Creative Park

The Huashan 1914 Creative Park is an area in which artists and non-profit organizations can hold events. It has also become a place where theatre groups, sculptors, painters, writers, and movie directors can showcase their work!

If you’re creative, this visit will be right up your alley! Even if you’re not, Huashan 1914 Creative Park is still a must-see in Taipei!

The quirky nature of this park has brought it a lot of attention in recent years. Thanks to the charitable atmosphere, many people enjoy spending a significant amount of time there!

The free display of up-and-coming artists is a great way to showcase all of the city’s talents – whether they’re established or not!

Hello Kitty Kitchen and Dining is a themed restaurant that is just as quirky. From themed decor to themed food, everything has something to do with ‘Hello Kitty’. The food is tasty and the price is not too bad. Be sure to check it out after your stop off at the creative park.

• Getting there: it’s a 15-minute walk from the last stop.
• How long should I spend there: You could spend 1-2 hours here, depending on your interests.

5:00PM – Visit the Thermal Valley and Beitou Hot Springs

The thermal valley is one of the most popular attractions in Taiwan! Minerals in the water, including sulfur, cause the water in the valley to boil. Locals often refer to the thermal valley as hell valley because of the intense heat that is emitted.

Naturally, the water in this valley reaches a scorching 90 degrees Celsius. This causes a constant stream of steam to rise up out of the valley.

Despite the heat, the steam makes for a beautiful site and the valley is a great place to take photos. It’s a beautiful gem for anyone backpacking Taiwan and a not to be missed place to go in Taipei.

Kahurangi Cafe is a great place to stop off after a very warm visit to the thermal valley. After that experience, you’ll need a refresh! Serving good ol’ American pizza and beer and located just a 3-minute drive from the thermal springs, it’s the perfect place to refresh and refill after a sweaty trip.

While you’re in the area, you can check out the Beitou Hot Spring Museum and hot spring spas.

• Getting there: Ride the MRT from Zhongxiao Xinsheng MRT station on the Zhonghe-Xinlu Line, then change onto the Tamsui-Xinyi line to MRT Beitou Station and walk from there.
• How long should I spend there: You could stop off at a spa here and spend all afternoon soaking in thermal waters, but if you are just going to see the pools, then an hour should suffice.

7:00PM – Let a Bird Tell Your Fortune

“ So how does this work exactly? ” you might be asking. Well, no, the bird doesn’t speak directly to you.

When you step inside the cubicle, Big Luck Master will fly onto your shoulder so you can whisper in his ear. You need to let him know what fortune you’re addressing. He’ll then choose a tarot card he deems appropriate to tell your future.

Is it a scam? Who knows, but it’s something every local will tell you that you need to experience while visiting Taipei. Who are we to say whether this bird is a fortune-telling genius or just well trained?

A stall in the Langshan station underground mall might hold the secrets to your future. Step inside the small cubicle to find your fortune teller, ‘Big Luck Master’ the bird, waiting patiently for you.

Because the stall is located inside the underground mall, you’ll have so many food choices to choose from. Mi Jiao Izakaya Restaurant serves amazing Asian food and incredible sushi. Eating in the underground mall is an experience all on its own. Making this your choice of food stop makes the experience that much more unique.

• Getting there: Take the MRT to Langshan MRT Station and exit directly into the underground mall
• How long should I spend there: It will take you 30 minutes unless you stop for food.

Meander Taipei

The Meander Taipei Hostel is arguably the best hostel in the city! Great interior design gives the inside of the hostel a very modern feel.

• Free breakfast

If you are planning on staying for more than just a weekend in Taipei, then you’ll need a few more activities to fill up your itinerary. There are plenty of awesome things to get up to in Taipei, so don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

Here are a few extra things you need to add to your itinerary if you’re planning to spend more than 3 days in Taipei:

Pingxi Lantern Release

• Paying only for your lantern, join in on the festivities of releasing a lantern in a big group of people.
• Spend precious time with the locals and get to know them on a personal level.
• Join in on the festival of a lifetime if you’re in Taipei when it’s happening.

The Pingxi lantern releases take place all year round in the Old Street area! A lot of people decide to release lanterns around the train tracks as it’s a nice open area and you’ll be able to see your lantern for ages as they float up into the atmosphere! If you’re traveling with a group, be sure to all release you lanterns at the same or similar times. Seeing your lanterns drift upward in a group is an extra special sight!

The Pingxi Lantern festival happens once a year. Just watch the dates as they change every year. If you happen to be in Taipei over this period of time, it’s worth the time it takes to check out!

It’s a very surreal experience and will make for a truly magical evening! Standing in a group of thousands, all releasing lanterns is something you’ll very rarely be able to experience anywhere else so don’t let this opportunity pass you by!

The lanterns are released in batches, the first batch being released at 6:30 pm and the last batch being released at 9:00 pm.

The Shifen Old Street train tracks are the perfect place to buy your lantern at a decent price; release it when the evening light starts to fade and grab a bite to eat from one of the many street vendors that frequent that area! If you’re traveling with your other half then this is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening abroad!

Spend a night in Ximending

• Explore the thriving nightlife in the neighbourhood of Ximending.
• Spend time at quirky souvenir shops and stalls.
• Ximending is a neighborhood in Taipei that’s often thought of as the shopping district, attracting 3 million shoppers per month! But Ximending comes alive to another extent at night. If you’re into the party scene, this is an experience you won’t want to miss! This neighborhood is home to a variety of clubs and pubs for everybody’s taste.

Talking about taste, if you’d like to tantalize your taste buds, or shock the hell out of them, visit Snow King for a variety of freaky-deaky flavors! If you’re looking for flavors a little more tame on the tongue, don’t worry, they’ve got those too. Every ice-cream craving can be satisfied at this very strange little shop!

The neighbourhood of Ximending is home to theatre street, a street that houses a collection of, erm, theatres. This is a great way to start your night out with some top-class entertainment! Before the evening light fades, be sure to check out graffiti street. This street displays the artwork of a variety of street artists some of who are incredibly talented!

Pre-drink at the Driftwood taproom, where you can experience Taiwan’s finest beer! From there, prepare yourself for a night out on the town. Visit one of the many clubs you’ll find in the neighborhood and party-hard. That’s what this neighborhood does best!

Visit the Wufenpu District

• If you’re looking for a new wardrobe, this just might be the place to start!
• This district is devoted to bringing you affordable clothing! You’ll find alleys filled with vendors and stalls selling clothing at great prices.
• Whether you’re looking for quirky clothing or fashionable street style, they’ll have something for you!

Take your time, or even take a full day, exploring the ins and outs of this massive street market. This market can be described as a shopper’s paradise! Make sure that you visit in off-peak hours or risk being bombarded by crowds!

Bargain-hunters scurry from stall to stall finding the best deals of the day so visiting early might be a good idea! The market is open from 1 pm – 11 pm every single day, so even if you’re busy during the day, you’ll have the night to explore for some great deals.

You can expect to pay between 100 NTD and 500 NTD ($3-$16) for most items, but it’s always fun to challenge yourself to find the best deals. Tuesdays are generally the best days to visit as these are the days the stallholders refresh their stock.

Take your own Temple Tour

• Guided tours are great but sometimes you want to explore by yourself. Take yourself on a tour to explore the many temples in Taipei area!
• This can be a deeply spiritual experience so it honestly might be better without a guide, this way you have the freedom to choose how long you’d like to stay and which parts of each temple you’d like to spend the most time at!
• Most temples are free to visit but they may ask for a small donation towards the maintenance costs of the building.

Mengjia Longshan Temple was built in the 1700s by Fujian immigrants! This beautiful temple has been damaged by many fires and earthquakes over the years but has always been well-restored!

The temple was built to worship the God of mercy, Guanyin. However, you can find hundreds of other statues found throughout the grounds! The temple is fairly big, with 5 main sections, and the temple itself is guarded by statues of mythical creatures like dragons and phoenixes!

The Baoan Temple is located in the Datong District of Taipei. It was awarded the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage award!

The temple was originally erected in the mid-1700s. And since has been updated multiple times to become the vibrant temple it is now!

In the temple, you’ll find many stone sculptures! In the front hall, you’ll find the most impressive of the stone art collection, dragon columns that stretch up to the ceiling!

A folk art festival is held at the temple every year. Here you’ll find parades, opera performances and surprisingly a free health clinic! Although this may seem out of place, it is actually bang-on theming. The temple was created to praise the god of medical knowledge, Baosheng Dadi. Spend some time taking in the many artistic traits of this incredible temple!

The Ciyou Temple is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea, who is said to watch over all the fisherman and sailors that dock in her harbor!

The temple is near the ocean for that reason. There is a legend that has traveled through Taipei for centuries about how and why the temple was built! A traveling monk is said to have made Taipei his home for a while, he joined up with a group of Mazu followers and they teamed up to raise the money to build the temple.

All-in-all, Taipei is home to a wide array of stunningly beautiful temples. Make sure you add that little cultural whirlwind to your Taipei itinerary!

Enjoy the night markets

One of the most unique things to do in Taipei is to enjoy some delicious street food at one of the many night markets. One of the most traditional delicacies is stinky tofu, which you will 100% smell before you see (well, it is called stinky tofu!) It doesn’t taste as bad as it smells, but it is quite a powerful taste.

You also need to try bubble tea, which originates from Taiwan. Bubble tea can be found on nearly every corner in Taipei. It’s like Starbucks in New York City, it’s everywhere.

The most touristy night market is the Shilin night market, but the Raohe night market is also a great place to enjoy some street food.

You’ll find night markets in most districts in Taipei city, and they are all much of the same. Just make sure to visit them on an empty stomach!

Taipei doesn’t experience the huge swing in its temperature and climate during the year that would create four definitive seasons. But the weather should play a major role in what time of year you plan your trip to Taipei!

The rainfall difference between seasons is quite significant and could be the difference between staying inside your hotel room or roaming and exploring the streets of Taipei throughout your trip! Not everyone minds the rain, but it’s important to take note when planning an itinerary in Taipei!

Winters in Taipei are usually the busiest time because of the many festivals. While these are also the coldest months in Taipei, it never really gets “cold” here except during the dead of night.

Spring in Taipei is a good time to visit as the rain hasn’t started yet and the crowds are taking a break. Taipei’s rainy season is on the horizon though so watch out.

Taipei summers are hot, humid, and very wet. This is prime cyclone season, which means that storms come frequently. Visitor numbers are a lot lower during this period.

Autumn in Taipei is hands-down the best time to visit. The weather is great, the crowds are minimal, and the prices are excellent!

The gorgeous city has something for everyone. A bustling nightlife, juxtaposed with a rich cultural history and plenty of great shopping spots. In fact, there is so much going on and so many places to visit in Taipei that you may be overwhelmed with options.

The good news is that getting around Taipei couldn’t be easier. Their well-connected MRT metro system means you are never far away from an MRT station, making it really easy to navigate your way around the city. It’s also super affordable too.

Taipei also has a reliable bus network. The buses in Taipei are quite reliable and comfortable. Usually, I would only recommend taking the bus if you want to visit the National Parks such as Yangmingshan national park on the outside of the city, but the metro tends to go quite far out of the city center, so it might not be needed to take a bus.

You can also easily connect to other areas in Taiwan from Taipei Main Station quite easily.

Taxis are common in Taipei and the drivers are safe and honest. It is the most expensive form of transport, but if you are in a hurry to the Taiwan Taoyuan International airport, then you shouldn’t worry about taking a taxi.

Taipei is a lovely little tropical island that forms part of Taiwan! Although Taiwan is very safe,  it’s important to make sure you’re keeping an eye out for any danger that might arise: natural and manmade. So what are the dangers you should be looking out for?

• Typhoons – These storms bring plenty of wind and water. As scary as this sounds, it’s important to understand that many of these are not too dangerous, however, some of them could pose a threat to your travel plans in and around Taipei! Obviously, avoiding Typhoon season (summer) reduces this risk and check the local weather forecasts.
• Health – Although Taiwan isn’t exactly rampant with diseases, it’s still important to make sure you’re appropriately vaccinated before visiting Taiwan (Hepatitis A and, to a lesser extent, Hepatitis B). Stay hygienic and stay smart.
• Streets – Although paling in comparison to many of the more chaotic cities in Asia, the roads in Taipei (and the drivers) are still not on the same level as Western countries… they’re way more fun! Until your used to arcade-rules, make sure you keep a watchful eye and observant ear when crossing the street.
• Crime – The crime rate in Taipei is very low! Muggings are almost unheard of but pickpocketing is known to happen from time to time. Just follow standard safety practices and you should be fine.

Other crimes rarely happen in Taipei and if you’re a solo female traveler, you’ll be happy to know that you’re safer in Taipei than most other countries in Europe!

Travel Insurance for Taipei

It wouldn’t be a justified Taipei itinerary guide if I didn’t recommend that you take out good travel insurance before you travel to Taipei. That’s how you prepare properly after all.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

You probably have some questions while you’re planning your Taipei itinerary. No worries! Because I’ve got answers.

How many days are enough for Taipei?

3-5 full days in Taipei will give you plenty of time. You can see the city’s top tourist attractions without rushing too much then.

What should you include on a Taipei 3-day itinerary?

Don’t miss these awesome Taipei experiences: – Bopiliao Old Street – Taipei 101 – Elephant Mountain – Liberty Square

Where should you stay if you have a full Taipei itinerary?

Xinyi is a great base. You’ll be in the heart of the action here. Zhongzheng is another great alternative with loads of transport connections.

What are the best day tours from Taipei?

Enjoy a scenic tour to Jiufen, Yehliu, and Pingxi, head out to Taroko Gorge, or visit Thousand Island Lake & Pinglin Tea Plantation.

Taipei is an incredibly beautiful city to visit no matter your taste in travel experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with your pack, Taipei has different experiences for all situations!

The thriving nightlife in Taipei is one you need to experience, and be sure to put some money aside for a shop-till-you-drop experience. Needless to say, keep some space aside in your travel bag for all the added extras too!

The cultural experiences are more than abundant and the natural surroundings make for some great exploratory adventures!

If you’re planning a Taipei itinerary, be sure to add some of these activities to your ultimate adventure plans: you won’t be sorry! Travel safe and enjoy your journey, I’m sure it will be filled with amazing memories and adventures!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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