So that you’ve been to Taipei earlier than. Sure, everybody and their grandma have heard of or have been to Taipei 101, Shilin Evening Market, Ximending, and the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial. However should you suppose you’ve seen all of it, Taipei’s right here to say, “Wait, maintain my bubble tea.”
Taipei is one metropolis we like to maintain visiting time and again as a result of each time we do, we uncover one thing we haven’t seen earlier than. On our most up-to-date journey, we went off the crushed path and dove into Taipei’s quirky underbelly, the place graffiti artwork meets peaceable temples, heart-shaped ponds pop up subsequent to wobbly bridges, and hidden markets are stuffed with Michelin-worthy bites.
So should you’re able to unlock a brand new degree of Taipei that’ll make your Instagram followers go, “Wait, the place is that?” — buckle up. Listed below are among the most underrated points of interest within the Taiwanese capital the place you gained’t be dodging selfie sticks and large tour teams.
1. Jian Tan Shan Climbing Path & North Eye Platform
In terms of mountaineering for an superior Taipei view, the go-to vacation spot has at all times been Elephant Mountain. However this isn’t the one one!
Taipei is surrounded by mountains, and when you’ve mountains you’ve mountaineering trails and lookouts. The Jian Tan Shan Path in Shilin, whereas frequented largely by locals, can also be worthy of a trek. It provides panoramic views of Taipei’s skyline which can be breathtaking —- figuratively and typically actually.
Tucked within the forested slope simply behind the Grand Resort, the beginning of the path just isn’t that simple to search out. It isn’t as crowded, however a lot of the pathway is paved and staired, so it’s beginner-friendly and also you gained’t fear about getting misplaced. OK, scratch that, spoiler alert: We bought misplaced. However solely as a result of it’s punctuated with a number of viewpoints, we didn’t know which was which!
You see, our finish aim was to succeed in the so-called North Eye Platform, an commentary deck the place we might catch peeks of iconic buildings on the opposite facet of town. However there have been lots of lookouts, we didn’t know if we have been following the proper signal. We even stumbled upon a quiet shrine that additionally permits unbelievable vistas, so all’s good!
However simply earlier than sunset, we have been capable of finding the white railings of the North Eye Platform, and it was value all the hassle and confusion. They are saying it’s much more gorgeous at sundown, however sadly the sky was overcast throughout our go to. One of the best half? Other than a few locals, we have been the one ones there!
On the way in which down, we additionally made a cease at among the different viewpoints to admire town lights! Sure, Taipei 101 is seen from among the stops, too, on the opposite facet.
2. Bishanyan Temple
Taipei has no scarcity of majestic, ornate temples, however one web site has an edge on the subject of its setting –- Bishanyan Temple. Hidden within the peaks of the Neihu District, this not only a place of worship but in addition a unbelievable viewpoint.
Perched on a hillside, Bishanyan Temple provides sweeping views of Taipei, mentioned to be particularly magical at sundown. We visited on a wet, foggy morning, so the solar was absent and the view was thinly shrouded. However we might completely think about how spectacular the view is from right here on common fair-weather days.
View apart, there’s so much to adore on this temple. The structure is wealthy intimately, with dragon-covered columns and complicated carvings. You’ll really feel such as you’re in the course of an historical legend as you wander the grounds. Plus, not like at most metropolis temples, the ambiance right here is serene. Even when vacationers are round, there’s a hush to the place that makes it really feel sacred and peaceable. Seize a spot, take within the metropolis views, and get in contact along with your interior zen.
Not too distant from the temple is Baishihu Suspension Bridge, which swings gently as you cross, supplying you with simply the correct quantity of thrill. I’m saying that within the second individual as a result of it was briefly closed throughout our go to.
Nonetheless, we bought to drop by the very Instagrammable star right here: the heart-shaped pond close by. It’s a unusual little characteristic, excellent for couple pictures or only a distinctive selfie spot.
3. Guandu
Beitou is best-known for its scorching springs, however there’s much more to on this nook of northern Taipei. One of many locations in Beitou that’s usually missed by vacationers is Guandu, identified for its wealthy pure magnificence and gorgeous riverside surroundings.
It’s the place you’ll discover Guandu Nature Park, a sprawling wetland the place birdwatchers can spot each native and migratory birds. Contained in the customer middle, you’ll discover interactive installations that inform the story of the location from being a dump web site to the sanctuary that it’s at the moment. And on the second flooring are large binoculars to observe the wildlife, particularly birds.
However why keep inside when you may expertise the outside? There’s a crab-watching walkway, a crescent-shaped pond, and quite a few tree tunnels, with nature-inspired artworks right here and there. You may stroll alongside picket trails and take within the marshy landscapes which can be very calming, contemplating you’re nonetheless inside Taipei.
However that’s simply the beginning! It’s additionally dwelling to Guandu Temple, formally often called Ling An Temple. It’s a historic gem devoted to Mazu, the goddess of the ocean and protector of sailors and fishermen. One of many oldest in Taiwan, Guandu Temple’s roots will be traced again to 1661. However probably the most fascinating bit? It was carved into the facet of a mountain.
Judging from the highway by the doorway, we truly thought it was fairly small, however once we entered, we have been greeted by a deep, winding cave tunnel, adorned with statues, altars, and stone reliefs, resulting in a small shrine. The expertise provides a extra non secular, nearly otherworldly really feel. And when you make it to the opposite facet, you’ll discover extra buildings together with a pagoda, a number of halls, and a manicured backyard with unnaturally square-shaped timber. However that’s not the tip of it. From right here, you’ll additionally get to take pleasure in an exquisite view of the realm.
For those who get hungry, simply throughout the road lies the Guandu Meals Park, the place you may seize fast snacks.
And beside it’s Guandu Wharf, subsequent to Tamsui River, the place you may take pleasure in a ship trip or a bicycle trip. It’s very quiet in the course of the day, however from late afternoon till the night, it involves life as meals stalls open and locals start to flock across the space.
4. Taipei EYE Theater
To be trustworthy, I’m undecided if I ought to embody this on this checklist as a result of it’s not precisely “off-the-beaten-path”. Whereas not as off-the-radar as, say, an obscure temple or a tiny neighborhood market, it’s positively much less crowded and extra low-key in comparison with Taipei’s main vacationer hotspots. Many vacationers miss it in favor of larger points of interest.
Taipei EYE is the place to be for a style of conventional opera, acrobatics, and folks dance. It’s a showcase of performing arts, with a twist! Typically, literal twist. The present we had the pleasure to see was known as Monkey King, primarily based on a Chinese language legend. However we’re getting forward of ourselves right here.
Earlier than the present, we tried a number of free actions accessible on web site, like coloring a standard masks like a pre-schooler or producing stamp arts like a professional. I spent most of my time ending a masks, whereas Vins was very pleased with his paper creations. You may additionally strive on elaborate costumes, store for souvenirs, and watch the actors do their make up for the present.
And when it’s showtime, we sat again, relaxed, and watched the story unfold. And man was it phenomenal! It was an amazing mix of drama, singing, dancing, and stunts! The actors have been all nice. Video recording isn’t allowed, however images with out flash is OK so listed here are some pics.
Don’t fear in case your Mandarin is rusty or non-existent; the drama and expressions say all of it. Plus, there are subtitles in English, Korean, and Japanese, so you actually gained’t get misplaced.
It was so good, I really consider it deserves extra consideration.
5. Taipei Cinema Park
Taipei’s map is shaded with numerous parks. We’ll be mentioning a couple of on this article, however that is maybe probably the most alive and colourful. This isn’t your common park. Hidden away within the stylish Ximending space, Taipei Cinema Park is a movie-themed complicated with open areas and out of doors installations, the place native and worldwide avenue artists unleash their creativity. On the middle of it’s this indoor gallery with artworks and pictures that narrate the historical past of the location.
However it’s additionally a spot the place artwork, city grit, and a splash of weirdness collide. It’s surrounded by graffiti-covered partitions that make you’re feeling such as you’ve wandered right into a rebellious teenager’s sketchbook. The park is an open canvas the place native artists exhibit their expertise with vibrant avenue artwork.
We first visited it at night time, and we stumbled upon this nook that appear like it got here from an otaku’s fever dream. The Japanese affect right here is so robust that I even joked that I’d see Mt. Fuji from right here. And I child you not, I did see Mt. Fuji right here. It was only a wall portray, however nonetheless.
We additionally noticed Wow Land, a room stuffed with claw machines and prizes, from kitschy toys to snacks to drinks. Now, you’ll discover 1000’s of claw machines scattered all through town, however what units this place aside is that it isn’t rigged (or not as rigged because the others). You probably have the ability, you may truly win one thing. Vins and I had a discipline day right here. Spent simply NT$ 40 (it’s NT$ 10 per recreation) and went dwelling with goodies, Milkis drink, and a toy. Not dangerous, not dangerous in any respect. It’s simply so good to not be duped by these machines for a change.
Even should you’re not into claw machines or avenue artwork, the park is a haven for people-watching and impromptu photoshoots. It’s a slice of Taipei’s cool, youthful facet—unpolished however wildly fascinating.
We visited it once more within the daytime, and we truly favored it higher at night time, so simply go to after sunset.
6. Xinzhongshan Park & Chifeng Avenue
Xinzhongshan Park is a captivating linear park working from Zhongshan Station to Shuanglian Station within the Zhongshan District. It’s a little bit of a neighborhood favourite hidden retreat, particularly for many who desire a quiet spot to calm down away from Taipei’s busier areas. The park has well-maintained strolling paths, lush timber, and open areas the place you’ll usually discover individuals unwinding, procuring, or simply having fun with the peaceable setting. Beneath lies Underground Guide Avenue, excellent for bookworms on the market.
One of the crucial fascinating options of Xinzhongshan Park is its proximity to Chifeng Avenue and its surrounding blocks, a classy space identified for its indie boutiques, native cafes, and artistic vibe. However what stole our consideration right here was the Coach Play – sure, that model — a classy fusion of a café and a retail area. The menu has a number of coffees, teas, and a few pastries.
However there are various different cafes right here which can be value your buck and time. My favourite spot is R9 Café’s mural that includes numerous espresso lovers!
Collectively, Xinzhongshan Park and Chifeng Avenue provide a mixture of nature, tradition, and creativity—supreme for anybody desirous to discover a lesser-known facet of Taipei!
For those who get hungry, stroll a bit to Chuan Mu Yuan, a hole-in-the-wall eatery serving Michelin-approved beef pancakes, served like a burrito. It’s among the finest dishes we’ve had in Taipei and was completely definitely worth the stroll.
It was the correct mix of candy and savory, and meaty and starchy. Their crimson bean pancakes are additionally one thing to jot down dwelling about! We additionally had fried rice, beef noodles, and xiao lengthy bao, however it’s actually their pancakes that it’s best to order.
7. Taipei Expo Park & Maji Sq.
For one thing quirky and colourful, head to Taipei Expo Park, full of character and enjoyable surprises, making it a enjoyable marriage of artwork, tradition, and meals. Initially the location for the 2010 Taipei Worldwide Flora Expo, the park now serves as a year-round hotspot for festivals, markets, and pop-up occasions.
One of many highlights is Maji Sq., a meals courtroom subsequent to the park the place meals stalls, artisanal outlets, and out of doors cafes create a market-like environment. It’s a spot to munch on native and worldwide fare (Indian, Italian, Korean!), purchase quirky souvenirs, and luxuriate in dwell music.
On our most up-to-date journey, this wasn’t a part of our unique plan. We have been speculated to go to an outside market but it surely was raining and we wanted a Plan B, and Maji Sq. has a roof above it, so we got here right here as an alternative. And good factor we paid it a go to! We actually loved this space. However our native companion Nelly mentioned it’s particularly enjoyable within the evenings when the lights come on, and the place buzzes with power. It’s bought a pageant power all 12 months spherical, making it excellent for informal get-togethers.
On the outskirts of the park lies Linji Huguo Temple, a lesser-known cultural treasure in Taipei. It’s a Buddhist temple that isn’t as crowded as Longshan Temple. It’s identified for its elegant, conventional design. One distinctive side of Linji Huguo is its emphasis on the Linji college of Zen Buddhism, identified for its deal with interior peace and knowledge. It’s an ideal spot to get a glimpse of Taipei’s non secular facet.
8. Huashan 1914 Artistic Park
Initially inbuilt 1914 as a sake distillery, the Huashan 1914 Artistic Park is an industrial complicated remodeled right into a cultural and humanities middle. It has a uncooked, industrial look, full with uncovered partitions and open-air courtyards.
However it’s not all high-brow artwork right here; Huashan 1914 has loads of cafes, boutique outlets, and design studios scattered across the complicated, so it’s simple to spend a complete afternoon exploring. Whether or not you’re a devoted artwork lover, a espresso connoisseur, or simply somebody trying to escape Taipei’s typical vacationer spots, Huashan 1914 Artistic Park is a artistic playground that has one thing that’ll make you linger. For us, that one thing was ice cream and low.
I had a yogurt ice cream that tasted actually pure and do-it-yourself, whereas Vins is simply at all times completely happy together with his espresso.
9. Dihua Avenue
One of many oldest streets in Taipei, Dihua Avenue is extra just like the cool great-grandma of strolling streets within the metropolis. For the longest time, it was the locals’ go-to spot for tea, dried herbs, and textiles, but it surely has one way or the other managed to remain related throughout generations. It’s a pleasant mashup of historical past and hipster, with old-school herbalists side-by-side with glossy bookstores and outlets. Assume apothecaries rubbing shoulders with standard meals spots—the place else are you able to decide up some dried ginseng and scrumptious strawberry mochi and dried squid?
After which there’s the Xiahai Metropolis God Temple, the place hopeful or hopeless romantics make choices to the god of matchmaking. Yep, you learn that proper—this little temple is principally Chinese language Cupid’s Taipei workplace, well-known for bringing like to the lovelorn. For those who’re feeling fortunate (or in determined want of romance), mild a couple of incense sticks and ask for a bit divine intervention in your love life.
Don’t count on a enjoyable, wild social gathering avenue, except it’s Lunar New 12 months. More often than not, it’s very quiet. It’s extra like a reminiscence lane the place you may store, snack, and possibly even meet your soulmate—that’s, if the Metropolis God’s feeling beneficiant!
10. Uncrowded Evening Markets
Taipei is thought for its night time markets, particularly its three hottest: Shilin, Raohe, and Ningxia. However the metropolis has loads extra that vacationers don’t normally go to!
One among them is Gongguan Evening Market, located near the Nationwide Taiwan College, which suggests (1) most of its common prospects are college students, and (2) the costs are reasonably priced! It’s fairly small. Tiny, in comparison with different night time markets, but it surely nonetheless has the mouthwatering aromas wafting from numerous meals stalls and the fixed chatter from individuals having fun with scrumptious snacks.
On this market, don’t miss Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancake, a Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee. It’s stationed near the doorway to the market. You gained’t miss it as a result of there’s normally an extended queue snaking towards it. And naturally, we fell in line, too. It moved quick so we have been face-to-face with the flat grill very quickly. There’s an choice so as to add cheese, ham, bacon, and egg. We ordered one plain and one with all our favourite trimmings, and we weren’t disenchanted.
The pancakes have been half tender, half crispy, and totally scrumptious for its value. No surprise it has garnered a loyal following amongst locals!
One other spot to think about is Shuangcheng Avenue Evening Market, tucked away within the Daan District. It’s additionally very quick and small, however stuffed with choices from fruits like custard apples to Japanese pancakes to Taiwanese sausages.
Simply stroll throughout the close by park and also you’ll attain Huang Chi Lu Rou Fan, one other Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, well-known for its signature braised pork rice. It’s at all times full of prospects, most ready for his or her takeaway containers. They serve pocket-friendly however comforting bowl of rice topped with tender, flavorful fatty pork bits that may have you ever dreaming about it lengthy after you’ve left. Fatty, sure, but it surely nonetheless ate clear.
Shuangcheng Avenue Evening Market can also be adjoining Qingguang Market, a procuring arcade lined with meals stalls, attire shops, and different trinkets catering largely to locals.
Taipei is bursting on the seams with underrated points of interest simply ready to be found — quirky temples, hidden night time markets, and scenic parks. They is probably not as standard, however they provide a very good look into Taipei’s native scene with out the touristy fluff. So even should you’ve been to Taipei earlier than, go forward and guide that flight as a result of within the phrases of 1 world boy band, the very best is but to return.
Sure, I do know it’s BTS and so they’re Korean, however I can’t consider something from F4 proper now. 😅
The place to Keep in Taipei
Listed below are among the lodges we have now tried in Taipei by means of the years.
Seek for extra Taipei Accommodations!
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