19 Recommended tourist attractions in Taipei, Taiwan! Introducing spots for a fulfilling sightseeing experience

Taipei, the central city of Taiwan, is a popular tourist destination that can be visited easily, almost like an extension of a domestic trip. Its compact size allows visitors to enjoy a fulfilling sightseeing experience even with just a 2-night, 3-day stay.

From local gourmet restaurants to stylish spots, Taipei is full of attractions! Combining both "sophisticated urban charm" and "simple warmth," the city offers a delightful walking experience. Additionally, the surrounding areas feature breathtaking scenic spots perfect for relaxation. This time, we introduce 19 diverse sightseeing spots, mainly focusing on must-visit classic attractions for first-time visitors to Taipei.

1. Taipei 101

The iconic skyscraper of Taipei City, "Taipei 101," stands at 509.2 meters tall, with 101 floors above ground and five basement levels. Until it was surpassed by Dubai’s Burj Khalifa in 2007, it held the title of the tallest building in the world. The observation deck offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Taipei City—an experience that will undoubtedly heighten the excitement of your Taipei trip. At night, the atmosphere is completely different, offering a romantic view of the city's nightscape.

The lower levels, from the basement floor to the sixth floor, are home to a shopping mall that attracts both tourists and locals. The mall's appeal lies in its well-curated selection of shops and high-quality food court. A visit here provides a clear glimpse into Taiwan’s latest fashion trends.

In Taiwan, where dining out is deeply ingrained in the culture, an ordinary food court would not attract much attention. However, Taipei 101’s food court features over 30 restaurants that impress even the most discerning locals. You’re sure to find a favorite spot here. Starting your Taipei adventure at this landmark is a fantastic idea!

2. National Palace Museum

The National Palace Museum is one of Taipei’s most renowned attractions. It is so prestigious that it ranks among the world's four greatest museums and is consistently crowded with tourists. Apart from a few iconic exhibits, the museum rotates its collection every three to six months. It is said that seeing all the artifacts would take ten years due to the museum’s vast collection.

The museum houses countless priceless treasures once collected by the emperors of the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, making it an unparalleled destination for those interested in Chinese history and art. Even visitors who are not particularly interested in Chinese artifacts will be amazed by the intricate craftsmanship of the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat-shaped Stone, which closely resembles a piece of braised pork.

The museum shop on the basement floor offers stylish and sophisticated souvenirs, making it a great spot for picking up gifts. The jade charms, in particular, are an excellent choice for older family members. If you need a break after exploring the exhibits, stop by Sanxitang Tea House, which is designed to resemble an ancient Chinese study. You can relax while enjoying Taiwanese tea, desserts, and light snacks in an elegant atmosphere.

3. Longshan Temple

Longshan Temple is the most famous temple in Taipei. Established during the Qing Dynasty, it is the city's oldest and most historic temple. It has long been a place of worship for the people of Taiwan, embracing Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism without distinction. While it is a popular stop for tourist groups, it remains a highly active place of worship for locals. Regardless of the time of day, you’ll find worshippers fervently offering prayers. The temple enshrines deities for various aspects of life, including love, health, wealth, and academics, each represented by seven incense burners.

Among them, the God of Love, Yue Lao, attracts the most visitors. Worshippers pray at his altar and then drop two crescent-shaped wooden blocks. If they land with one face-up and one face-down, they receive a red thread charm, symbolizing the connection of destined lovers. This ritual makes the temple a hotspot for those seeking romantic guidance. Volunteers are present at the temple, offering explanations about worship procedures, fortune-telling methods, and the temple’s history.

The most convenient way to get there is via MRT Bannan Line, exiting at Longshan Temple Station, Exit 1.

4. Taipei Eye

Established in 2002 under the supervision of the government and private enterprises, TaipeiEYE (臺北戯棚) was created to introduce traditional Taiwanese culture to international visitors. It offers a fascinating lineup of performances, including instrumental music, lion dances, plate-spinning, Peking opera, folk dances, acrobatics, and puppet shows.

Before the show starts, visitors can enjoy an erhu (Chinese violin) performance in the lobby and watch actors applying their dramatic Peking opera makeup up close. Photography is allowed, and there’s even a section where you can try on traditional costumes for a unique cultural experience.

Each performance lasts about 90 minutes, with the first half featuring lion dances and folk dances and the second half showcasing Peking opera. Even if you don’t understand Chinese, subtitles in multiple languages, including Japanese, are displayed on a screen to help you follow the story.

After the show, you can take photos with the performers, making for a memorable experience. TaipeiEYE is one of the best places to experience traditional Taiwanese culture, which can be difficult to encounter elsewhere in the city. A Japanese-language website is available, so be sure to check the schedule before visiting.

5. Fortune Telling Alley (Meiji Street)

Taipei is home to a well-known fortune-telling hub located in the underground passage of Xingtian Temple, often referred to as "Fortune Telling Alley". This spot is frequently featured in Japanese media, so many visitors may have heard of it before. The underground corridor is lined with various fortune-telling booths offering services such as Four Pillars of Destiny (Bazi), face and palm reading, name analysis, feng shui, Bagua divination, rice divination, and bird fortune-telling.

Since this area is often included in tourist itineraries, many of the fortune tellers speak Japanese, making it a convenient place for foreign visitors. Some booths are so popular that people line up for readings. You'll also find unique fortune-telling methods not commonly seen in Japan, making it a fun and memorable part of your Taipei trip. Just be sure to confirm the price in advance to avoid any misunderstandings later.

6. Daan Forest Park

Opened in 1994, Daan Forest Park is located near the popular shopping district of Yongkang Street. Surrounded by four major roads—Xinyi Road, Jianguo South Road, Xinsheng South Road, and Heping East Road—this park is truly an urban oasis. Covering approximately 260,000 square meters, it is the largest park in Taipei.

The park features play areas for children, a roller-skating rink, and basketball courts, making it a lively spot for Taipei residents, especially on weekends. A tree-lined jogging and walking path encircles the park, providing a cool, shaded escape from the sun—a perfect spot to relax on hot days.

The beautifully maintained pond is home to numerous bird species, with signs displaying their names and illustrations, making it a great place for birdwatching in the city. If you're looking for a peaceful place to rest after sightseeing in Taipei, Daan Forest Park is an ideal choice.

7. Elephant Mountain

If you want to capture a breathtaking view of Taipei, including its iconic Taipei 101, Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) is the place to go. It’s no exaggeration to say that most of Taipei’s stunning skyline photos are taken from this spot, making it one of the best photography locations in the city.

Elephant Mountain is part of the Four Beasts Mountain range, which also includes Lion Mountain, Leopard Mountain, and Tiger Mountain. Getting there is easy—take the MRT Xinyi Line to Xiangshan Station, then follow the stone steps leading up the hiking trail. At 128 meters, it’s a moderate climb rather than a serious hike.

The first viewpoint you'll encounter is the "Six Giant Rocks" (六巨石), a famous photo spot with massive boulders. Next is the "Camera Platform" (相機平台), and finally, the "Chaoran Pavilion" (超然亭) at the summit. The Camera Platform is the best spot for sunset and night photography, attracting crowds of photographers setting up tripods before dusk.

Although there are still people around after dark, the area is not as brightly lit as downtown Taipei, so it's advisable to descend before it gets too late for safety reasons.

8. Maokong

A rising star among Taipei’s tourist attractions is the charmingly named Maokong (Māokōng). Famous for its Tieguanyin tea plantations, Maokong's hillsides are covered in lush tea fields.

Since the Maokong Gondola opened in 2007, the area has grown in popularity, leading to the establishment of many tea houses (茶藝館). Most of these are run by tea farmers, offering a more rustic and authentic atmosphere compared to Taipei’s bustling city center. Visitors can enjoy not only premium Taiwanese tea and tea snacks but also tea-infused cuisine and vegetarian dishes, making for a refreshing lunch in the cool mountain air.

To get there, take the MRT Wenhu Line to Taipei Zoo Station, then transfer to the Maokong Gondola. The ride takes about 20 minutes, offering a spectacular aerial view of the tea plantations below. For those who love adventure, some gondolas feature glass floors, providing a thrilling "floating" experience. Hiking enthusiasts will also find several scenic trails in the area. If you have time to explore beyond Taipei, Maokong is well worth the visit!

9. Yangmingshan National Park

Often called "Taipei’s backyard," Yangmingshan National Park has long been a favorite retreat for Taipei residents. Contrary to what its name suggests, Yangmingshan is not a single mountain, but rather an entire region filled with scenic attractions.

One of its highlights is Zhuzihu (竹子湖), famous for its flower fields. On weekends, flower markets selling roses, carnations, sunflowers, and other ornamental plants attract many visitors. From February to April, azaleas, osmanthus, plum blossoms, and cherry blossoms bloom in succession, creating a colorful spectacle. Calla lilies, which are rare in most parts of the world, bloom from March to April, drawing crowds eager to experience the beauty of spring.

The park also features the former summer retreat of Chiang Kai-shek, the first President of the Republic of China (Taiwan). This historic villa showcases rooms and exhibits about Chiang Kai-shek’s life and legacy. Yangmingshan is also known for its hot springs, which are popular among both tourists and locals. If you're hesitant about traditional public bathhouses, consider visiting one of the modern resort spas in the area. To get there, take Bus 260 from Taipei Main Station (about 1.5 hours) or take the MRT to Jiantan Station, where buses to Yangmingshan are available.

10. Presidential Office Building

The Presidential Office Building is where Taiwan’s President conducts official affairs. Originally built during Japanese rule, this historic structure was designed by Uheiji Nagano, an architect known for designing branches of the Bank of Japan. Completed in 1919, the building features red brick and white granite in a Renaissance architectural style. It was partially damaged by air raids during World War II but was restored in 1948.

Since it serves as Taiwan’s equivalent of the White House, access is restricted. However, Taiwanese and Japanese citizens can visit on weekday mornings. Inside, exhibits display the history of Taiwan and the Presidential Office, including a grand hall for welcoming foreign dignitaries, banquet rooms for official receptions, and press briefing areas. Guided tours are available in Japanese.

When viewed from above, the layout of the Presidential Office resembles the Chinese character for "sun" (日), making it an interesting architectural attraction. Once a month, a special public tour grants access to additional areas of the building. If you’re in Taipei, this is a must-visit historical site!

11. Huashan 1914 Creative Industry Park

One of Taipei’s most exciting emerging cultural destinations, Huashan 1914 Creative Park was originally a sake brewery during the Japanese colonial period. After the factory relocated, the abandoned site became an underground art space where young artists secretly painted murals and created graffiti. Recognizing its creative potential, the site was later transformed into an official venue for cultural events. Since 2009, the park has evolved into a hub for Taipei’s creative scene, housing live music venues, cafes, restaurants, shops, and even an independent cinema. Today, it is a key location for art exhibitions, pop-up markets, and performances, making it a hotspot for discovering Taipei’s latest trends.

A major feature of the park is its preservation of historic elements, where old railway tracks, wooden beams, and tiles from the original factory have been cleverly repurposed. The result is a space that beautifully blends retro aesthetics with modern creativity. Even if you don’t attend an event, strolling through the park is a wonderful experience in itself.

12. Ximending

Named after its location outside the old Taipei city’s West Gate, Ximending is often referred to as "Taipei’s Shibuya" or "Taipei’s Harajuku" due to its vibrant youth culture and shopping scene. The area is packed with department stores, commercial buildings, karaoke bars, and casual street food stalls, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere similar to Japan’s trendiest districts.

A standout landmark in Ximending is the Red House Theater (西門紅樓). Built in 1908 by Japanese architect Kondo Juro, this octagonal red-brick structure was originally a public market. Today, it has been repurposed into a multipurpose cultural space, housing a live music venue, cafes, and boutiques.

Despite being a busy district, Ximending offers delicious local street food, including the famous Ay-Chung Rice Noodles (阿宗麵線), known for its rich bonito broth and silky thin noodles. Another must-try snack is the crispy fried mushrooms, which are fried using soybean and rice oil for a lighter taste compared to typical deep-fried snacks.If you're looking for a dynamic mix of fashion, culture, and food, Ximending is a must-visit destination in Taipei.

13. Shilin Night Market

Night markets are an essential part of Taiwanese culture, and among them, Shilin Night Market is the largest and most famous. With a history dating back over 90 years, this bustling market has long been a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Unlike traditional Japanese street festivals, Shilin Night Market is massive in scale. As soon as you enter, you’ll be immersed in a chaotic yet lively atmosphere filled with bright lights, food stalls, and crowds.

While the market includes sections for clothing, accessories, and old-school arcade games, the highlight is undoubtedly the street food stalls. You’ll find an overwhelming variety of local delicacies, from oyster omelets to mango shaved ice, and even trendy new dishes that change seasonally. Adventurous foodies can try Taiwanese stinky tofu, a specialty that locals love!

The night market is open until late at night, but the busiest hours for food stalls are 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. If you want to avoid crowds, it’s best to visit around 5:00 PM when vendors start opening. However, if you go too late, popular stalls may sell out early.

To get there, take the MRT to Jiantan Station—not Shilin Station, despite the name. Jiantan is closer to the night market entrance.

14. Raohe Street Tourist Night Market

One of the two most famous night markets in Taipei alongside Shilin Night Market, Raohe Street Night Market is more compact, running along a 600-meter-long street with shops and food stalls on both sides.

The best way to enjoy this market is by sampling various street foods while walking. The most famous dish here is the Pepper Pork Bun (胡椒餅) from Fuzhou Shizu Hu Jiao Bing (福州世祖胡椒餅). These buns are stuffed with a peppery minced pork filling and scallions, then baked in a traditional clay oven for 15 minutes. The result is a crispy, golden exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior—a must-try dish that draws long lines every night!

In addition to classic mango shaved ice and fresh watermelon juice, Raohe Street Night Market also offers unique shopping stalls selling accessories and souvenirs. Keep an eye out for beauty services like "Threading (挽面)," a traditional Taiwanese facial hair removal technique using fine cotton thread.

15. Taipei Zoo

Home to a wide variety of animals, Taipei Zoo is one of the largest zoos in Asia, covering an area of 182 hectares. The zoo is especially famous for its giant pandas, which are so popular that entry to the panda exhibit sometimes requires a timed ticket on weekends and holidays.

Unlike traditional zoos with metal cages, Taipei Zoo creates naturalistic enclosures, allowing animals to roam in open spaces. This barrier-free environment provides a more natural and relaxed atmosphere for both animals and visitors.

Aside from pandas, some of the most popular animals include koalas, penguins, elephants, and hippos. The zoo is a favorite among families with children, but it's enjoyable for animal lovers of all ages. Since the zoo is quite large, it is built on a gently sloping hill. If you prefer a less strenuous visit, take the shuttle train inside the park. A great strategy is to take the train from Koala House Station (near the panda exhibit) to the Bird Aviary Station at the top of the hill, then explore as you make your way down. The zoo also features cafes, snack stands, and a well-stocked souvenir shop.

To get there, take the MRT Wenhu Line to Taipei Zoo Station, which is located right next to the entrance.

16. Tamsui

For a quick getaway from Taipei’s bustling city center, consider visiting Tamsui (Danshui), a charming riverside town just 40 minutes away from downtown Taipei. Often called “Taiwan’s Venice,” Tamsui is famous for its stunning sunsets, making it a popular dating spot for local couples and a scenic destination for visitors who want to enjoy Taipei’s waterfront views.

The lively Zhongzheng Road, which leads from the MRT station to the river, is lined with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and street food stalls, giving it the vibrant atmosphere of a festival market. Signature local snacks include fried dried clams and grilled squid, perfect for snacking while strolling along the waterfront. Tamsui’s famous soft-serve ice cream is available in three sizes—small, medium, and an impressive 30 cm “large” version!

As a former trading port, Tamsui has a fascinating colonial history. During the 1600s, both Spanish and Dutch forces occupied the area, leaving behind European-style buildings, such as Fort San Domingo, which once served as the British consulate. These historic red-brick structures add to Tamsui’s unique charm, making it a relaxing escape from Taipei’s hustle and bustle.

17. National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine

Managed by Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense, the National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine was built to honor the 330,000 soldiers who sacrificed their lives in battles such as the Xinhai Revolution, the Second Sino-Japanese War, and the Chinese Civil War.

This shrine plays a significant role in Taiwan’s national ceremonies, with the President and government officials visiting every spring and autumn to pay their respects. Foreign dignitaries and state visitors also frequently offer floral tributes here as part of official visits.

The shrine’s most famous attraction is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, held daily at 9:00 AM sharp. The elite honor guards, selected based on strict criteria (including height over 178 cm and superior physical fitness), perform a precisely synchronized military drill.

Becoming a ceremonial guard at this shrine is considered a great honor, and their perfectly choreographed routine is a must-see for visitors.

18. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Named after Chiang Kai-shek, the first President of the Republic of China, this grand memorial hall was built as a tribute to his leadership. It was officially opened to the public on April 5, 1980, exactly five years after his passing.

The memorial complex features a vast central plaza, which is frequently used by Taipei residents for Tai Chi, dance rehearsals, and public events. Originally a military site during the Qing Dynasty and Japanese colonial era, this area is now the size of 25 soccer fields, making it one of Taipei’s largest open spaces—a great place to relax and unwind during your sightseeing tour.

The design of the main hall was inspired by the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. Inside, you’ll find a massive bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek, as well as exhibits displaying his personal belongings, historical records, and artifacts. The complex also includes a library and exhibition hall dedicated to his legacy.

A popular attraction here is the hourly Changing of the Guard ceremony, which draws large crowds. Chiang Kai-shek remains a controversial figure in Taiwan’s history, with mixed opinions about his rule, but this historically significant site is definitely worth visiting.

19. National Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall

Known as the “Father of the Chinese Revolution,” Sun Yat-sen is one of the most influential figures in Chinese history. This memorial hall was built to commemorate his achievements and preserve his teachings for future generations.

Inside the main memorial hall, a massive 8.9-meter bronze statue of Sun Yat-sen is guarded by ceremonial honor guards. The museum houses his handwritten letters, books, and historical documents, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs. The site also features a library with over 300,000 books, a gallery for exhibitions, and educational displays about his revolutionary efforts.

The surrounding Zhongshan Park spans 40,000 square meters, providing a scenic spot with stunning views of Taipei 101—a favorite photography location. Unlike the Martyrs’ Shrine and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial, the Changing of the Guard ceremony here allows visitors to take photos with the guards after the ritual.

A unique attraction at the memorial is the free foot reflexology path, designed for visitors to walk barefoot. It may feel intense at first, but walking the entire path is said to improve circulation and leave you feeling refreshed. Like Chiang Kai-shek, Sun Yat-sen remains a debated figure in history, but visiting his memorial is a valuable way to learn about Taiwan’s revolutionary past.

◎ Summary of recommended tourist spots in Taipei

Taipei, Taiwan’s largest city, offers a rich blend of history, food, and culture, making it a fantastic travel destination. The warm and welcoming nature of its people—many of whom have a positive view of Japan—adds to the charm of visiting. With a short 3.5-hour flight from Japan and only a one-hour time difference, Taipei is an easy and convenient getaway.

Although Taipei is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is October and November, when the weather is cool and comfortable. Summers can be extremely hot and humid, with frequent typhoons, so planning your trip during autumn will ensure a more enjoyable experience. Many visitors fall in love with Taipei and return multiple times. Whether it’s exploring historical sites, indulging in night market street food, or hiking in the scenic outskirts, Taipei has something for everyone. If you haven’t been yet, now is the perfect time to experience this vibrant city for yourself!