Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

1. Experience Taipei Top View at Simple Kaffa

Dine in and see Taipei City at a glance in your window. This is an option for those who want to skip Taipei 101 Obserevatory. If you just want to have a peaceful way to see the whole metropolitan, then try this place. You have to have a reservation or you will have to wait from 60 to 90 minutes just to have a table.

Check website here: https://simplekaffa.com/journal/Simple-Kaffa-Sola

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

2. Houtong Cat Village Ruifang New Taipei City

Houtong Cat Village, a famous cat’s living place, contains rich layers of coalfields. It attracted many people coming to mine the black gold and made it into a very important town for the Taiwan coal mining industry in the past. Till today, it still retains rich mining relics, such as mine craters, trolleys, coal transportation bridge, miner’s dormitories, Ruisan Mining Industry Company and more. You even can take a trolley through the coal tunnel to feel the hardship life of the miners. You will never forget this unique experience.

Read more here: https://newtaipei.travel/en/attractions/detail/111588

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

3. LB Cafe Tamsui New Taipei City

Perfect place to enjoy the beautiful sunset in Tamsui and view the new Tamkang Bridge. It’s a cash only restaurant located in the most breathtaking spot in Tamsui Riverside Park. It is best to reserve a table to get the best seat for the sunset.

Official Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/longbeachcoffeeshop#

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

4. A Good Day Cafe Shimen New Taipei City

A Good Day coffee has the best hot chocolate in Shimen District, New Taipei City. There are so many tourist spots in Shimen too so before relaxing here, try the other landmarks. One best thing about this coffee shop is that it is near to the most famous rice dumpling shop in Shimen, so you can actually try the best rice dumpling in Taiwan while enjoying the relaxing view of the ocean and a cup of latte.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

5. Sanzhi New Taipei City

Sanzhi District is a scenic coastal and mountainous rural area in New Taipei City, Taiwan. Famous for its relaxing beachside cafes, early-blooming cherry blossoms, and local water bamboo, it is easily accessed from Taipei via Provincial Highway No. 2 or the Crown Northern Coast Shuttle Bus 716 from Tamsui.

Top Attractions:

Qianshui Bay (淺水灣): A popular coastal destination featuring a sandy beach, rock formations, and a long strip of Mediterranean-style seaside coffee shops and restaurants.

Zhilan Park (芝蘭公園): Known for its striking blue ocean-facing walking pier and sweeping views of the northern coastline.

Sanzhi Cherry Blossom Trail (三芝賞櫻步道): A sprawling network of mountain roads lined with over 15,000 cherry trees that peak in bright pink blooms during February and March.

Fude Waterwheel Ecological Park (福德水車生態園區): A peaceful community space centered around traditional waterwheels, local streams, and lush greenery.

Sanzhi Visitor Center (三芝遊客中心暨名人文物館): An informative local hub highlighting the district’s history, culture, and famous native figures like former President Lee Teng-hui.

Local Food & Culture

Water Bamboo (茭白筍): Known locally as “Beauty’s Legs,” this tender, crisp aquatic vegetable is Sanzhi’s signature agricultural product, celebrated every autumn.

Seaside Dining: Qianshui Bay is lined with popular eateries ranging from ocean-view cafes like Le Coq to diverse international bistros.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

6. Dadaocheng Wharf Taipei City

Dadaocheng Wharf (Taipei)To back up your point with facts, here is what makes this specific landmark a perfect example of great tourism management:

The Vibe: A historic port transformed into a trendy riverside container market with food stalls, bars, and live music.

The Amenities: Free entry, clean public restrooms, accessible walking paths, and a dedicated visitor center nearby in the historic Dihua Street area.

The Experience: Famous for its stunning sunset views, romantic cycling paths (with cheap public Ubike rentals), and a strictly regulated, safe environment free of tourist traps or aggressive vendors.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

7. Tokiya Taipei City 陶阪屋復興北

Experience the perfect blend of Japanese refinement and Western innovation at Tokiya Fuxing North Branch.

Whether you are planning a warm family gathering, a business luncheon, or a romantic dinner date, Tokiya Fuxing North Branch is your premier dining choice located right in the heart of the city.

Location and Accessibility

• Address: No. 375, Fuxing North Road, Minyou Li, Songshan District, Taipei City
• Directions: The location is highly accessible, situated just a 3-minute walk from MRT Zhongshan Junior High School Station, directly across from Sanmin Bookstore.

Why Choose the Fuxing North Branch?

• Elegant Contemporary Space: Step away from the busy office surroundings and enter a beautifully renovated modern space featuring Tokiya’s classic purple theme. The restaurant boasts expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that provide exceptional natural lighting and a comfortable atmosphere for your meal.
• Signature Multi-Course Menu: Enjoy our acclaimed multi-course Japanese-Western fusion set meals, featuring long-time crowd favorites such as the iconic Roasted Garlic Beef Steak and the comforting Cold Moon Purple Rice dessert.
• Attentive Hospitality: We deliver our signature warm and considerate table service to ensure that every special milestone celebration or gathering becomes a memorable occasion.

Treat your colleagues, friends, or family to an exceptional culinary experience today.

---

Reservations and Hours

• Phone: 02-2718-1268
• Operating Hours:
  • Weekdays: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM | 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Weekends: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Online Booking: Click here to secure your table via the Inline reservation system

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

8. Minglun Shengshen Temple Taoyuan

 Discover Taoyuan’s Scenic Sanctuary: Minglun Sansheng Temple (明倫三聖宮)

Perched on the foothills of Hutoushan (Tiger Mountain), this majestic temple perfectly blends rich cultural traditions with breathtaking city views! Whether you love exploring local culture or catching stunning panoramic views, here is why this spot belongs on your Taiwan travel list:

 The Grand 9-Dragon Wall: Guarding the entrance is an exquisite relief wall featuring nine lifelike dragons and a turtle-filled blessing pool below.

 The Giant 9-Meter Crescent Blade: Step up to a massive replica of Guan Gong’s legendary weapon! Legend says rubbing it drives away bad luck and brings absolute peace.

 The Miracle Beard: The temple houses a sacred, 360-year-old statue of Guan Gong, whose beard is said to miraculously grow longer year after year!

 Unmatched City Views: The temple’s wide-open courtyard serves as an incredible observation deck, offering sweeping, unobstructed views of the Taoyuan cityscape.

 Pro-Tip: The temple connects directly to Hutoushan Park, making it the perfect cultural stop after a morning hike or a casual mountain trail stroll!

 Address: No. 639, Sansheng Rd, Guishan District, Taoyuan City

 Hours: 4:30 AM – 7:00 PM Daily

 Admission: FreeTag your favorite travel buddy and start planning your next weekend escape! 

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

9. Hutoushan Park Taoyuan

Escape to Nature: Taoyuan’s Hutoushan Park (虎頭山公園)! 

Looking for the perfect green escape just minutes from the city? Known as the “Back Garden of Taoyuan,” Hutoushan Park is the ultimate destination for nature lovers, hikers, and families! 

Here is what makes this forest park a must-visit:

 Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore miles of fully paved, shaded eco-trails that weave through lush forests. The paths are gentle and perfect for all fitness levels!

 Owl Forest School: A magical, elevated wooden walkway built seamlessly into the treetops. It is fantastic for birdwatching, photography, and keeping kids entertained.

 Hutoushan Eco-Park: Walk over to the hilltop clearing to catch panoramic, unobstructed views of the Taoyuan cityscape—especially stunning at sunset!

 Children’s Playground: Packed with fun climbing structures, dinosaur statues, and picnic areas, making it a massive hit for families.

 Cultural Bonus: The park connects directly to Minglun Sansheng Temple and the historic Taoyuan Martyrs’ Shrine (a beautifully preserved Japanese Shinto shrine)!

Whether you want an energetic morning hike or a peaceful weekend picnic, this urban oasis has it all.

 Address: No. 42, Park Rd, Guishan District, Taoyuan City

 Hours: Open 24 Hours Daily

 Admission & Parking: Free!

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

10. Grand Mayfull Hotel Taipei

The Grand Mayfull Hotel Taipei is a palatial 5-star luxury hotel located in the upscale Dazhi district of Taipei. Housed in twin granite towers, it is highly celebrated for its immense sense of grandeur, exceptionally spacious rooms, and world-class culinary reputation.

Key Highlights for TouristsMichelin-Starred Dining: It features MIPON, one of Taiwan’s few Michelin-starred restaurants dedicated to upscale, authentic Taiwanese cuisine.Elite Amenities: It boasts Taipei’s only heated outdoor swimming pool adorned with intricate mosaic art.Massive Guest Rooms: The property offers 146 boutique-scale deluxe rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and premium marble bathrooms.Foodie Advantage: Owned by Mayfull Foods Corporation, the hotel leverages direct procurement expertise to source top-tier ingredients for its 5 theme restaurants.

Location & AccessibilityAddress: No. 55, Lequn 2nd Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City.The Neighborhood: Situated in a peaceful riverside area near the Neihu Technology Park. It is quieter and less crowded than central downtown, making it a peaceful retreat.Transit: A short walk to the MRT Jiannan Road Station, offering easy access to the Miramar Entertainment Park (famous for its giant Ferris wheel).

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

11. Waterfront Restaurant Tamsui New Taipei

The Waterfront Restaurant (Rongti Branch) 水灣餐廳榕堤店 is a premier, upscale resort-style dining spot located right along the Tamsui River. Famous for its 120-meter front-row river view and signature Balinese thatched-roof pavilions, it offers one of the best locations in Northern Taiwan to watch the Tamsui sunset against Guanyin Mountain.

Location: No. 229-9, Zhongzheng Rd, Tamsui District (about a 12–15 minute walk from Tamsui MRT Station along the riverside).

Operating Hours:
Monday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Saturday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Minimum Spend Requirements:
Lunch & Dinner Periods:
Entry requires ordering a full multi-course set menu (typically ranging from NT$800 to NT$1000+ per person).
Afternoon Tea Period (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM): A minimum spend of NT$250 per person applies for drinks and light snacks.

Cuisine & Vibe: A fusion of Balinese tropical flavors and local ingredients. Popular dishes include the Bali Fire-Roasted Kabobs, Roasted Pork Knuckle, and tropical fruit smoothies. It features live music sessions and open-air seating.

Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for weekend sunset windows.
Digital booking is available directly online via Waterfront Restaurant’s Inline Reservation System.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

12. Taipei Zhongshan Hall 臺北市中山堂

Taipei Zhongshan Hall 臺北市中山堂 is a designated national historic monument located in Taipei’s Zhongzheng District, serving as a massive cultural hub for arts, history, and nostalgic cafes.

Admission: Free general entry to the building and art gallery spaces (performances and theater shows are ticketed separately).

Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily.

Location & Transit: No. 98, Yanping South Road, Zhongzheng District. It is a 1-minute walk from MRT Ximen Station (Exit 5).

Free Audio Guides: 30 audio guide devices (offered in English, Japanese, Mandarin, Taiwanese, and Hakka) are available for free at the 1st-floor reception desk in exchange for a personal ID.

Free In-Person Tours: Daily scheduled tours start at 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM (with an extra 11:00 AM slot on weekends). Gather at the volunteer room to the left of the main entrance lobby.

Note: Public viewing to certain areas may be closed if a live rehearsal or performance is taking place.

What to See & Do inside Zhongshan Hall

Witness World War II History: Built in 1936 by the Japanese as the “Public Hall” (公會堂), this building was the official site where the Japanese forces in Taiwan signed their surrender documents on October 25, 1945. The signing took place in the grand Guangfu Auditorium (光復廳) on the second floor.

Appreciate Unique Architecture: The building is a rare architectural masterpiece blending Spanish-Islamic arched windows with modernist fire-resistant concrete and local Taiwanese green terracotta tiles, designed to make the building blend into the surroundings for camouflage during WWII military eras.

View a National Treasure: Located on the main staircase between the 2nd and 3rd floors is “The Water Buffalo” (水牛群像), a grand bas-relief masterpiece by Huang Tu-shui, who was the very first Taiwanese sculptor to win international acclaim in Japan.

Fortress Cafe (堡壘廳) on the 2nd floor: Features a high-ceilinged, pristine colonial dining space that once served as a VIP reception room for historical state guests.

Theater Cafe (劇場咖啡) on the 4th floor: A deeply atmospheric, retro literary cafe perfect for grabbing coffee, tea, and desserts away from the loud crowds of neighboring Ximending.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

13. Sanzhi Sansheng Trail New Taipei

Cherry Blossom Secret in New Taipei City!

Looking for a stunning spring escape? Check out the Sanzhi Sansheng Trail in Sanzhi District! 

 The View: A peaceful 2-kilometer riverside path lined with over 300 to 500 gorgeous pink Showa and Yoshino cherry blossom trees.

 Best Time to Visit: Mid-March to late March for peak blooms.

The Vibe: An easy, flat stroll featuring rustic farmlands, traditional arch bridges, and a beautiful murmuring stream.

 Location: Dakeng Creek Sansheng Trail, Sanzhi District, New Taipei City

 Admission: Free!Add this to your Taiwan spring bucket list! 

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

13. National Taiwan Museum Railway Department Park in Datong District, Taipei

National Taiwan Museum Railway Department Park in Datong District, Taipei, Taiwan.

A historic red-brick building from the Japanese colonial era that once served as the Railway Department of the Governor-General’s Office.

Exhibitions: Features permanent displays on Taiwan’s railway history, historical artifacts, and scale models.

Admission: General admission is NT$100, with concession tickets available for students and children.

Hours: Open daily from 09:30 AM to 05:00 PM (ticket counter closes at 04:30 PM); closed on Mondays.

Access: Easily accessible via Taipei MRT Beimen Station (Exit 2).

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

14. Tamsui MRT Station New Taipei City

As the northern terminus of the Taipei Metro Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line), Tamsui MRT Station serves as the primary coastal gateway to northern Taiwan’s historical heritage. The station features a distinct brick-red, castle-style architecture that complements the area’s rich history, dropping you directly in front of the scenic riverfront.

Station Facilities & Logistics

• Visitor Center: The Tamsui Station Visitor Information Center is located right at the station, open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. You can pick up free multilingual maps, brochures, and tourist guidance.
• Luggage Lockers: Electronic keypad lockers are available inside the station. Large lockers (fits a ~29-inch suitcase) and small lockers (fits a ~20-inch carry-on) are billed hourly. Payments can be made via EasyCard, coins, or mobile wallets like Apple Pay and LINE Pay. Note: Max storage limit is 24 hours before items are moved to holding.
• Bike Rentals: A YouBike station and local bicycle rental shops sit directly outside the station, providing quick access to the Tamsui Riverside Bikeway.

Top Attractions Right Outside the Station

The area around the station easily splits into distinct zones depending on what you want to explore:

1. Food & Shopping

• Tamsui Old Street: Located directly out of Exit 1, this flatter, highly stroller-friendly boardwalk stretches along the river. It is lined with traditional shops selling regional delicacies like A-Gei (stuffed fried tofu packets), fish ball soup, and iron eggs.

2. Waterfront Views & Sunsets

• Tamsui Golden Anchor & MRT Park: Directly behind the station, this wide grassy park and stone promenade offer panoramic views of Mount Guanyin and the river estuary. It is universally praised for its “god-tier” golden sunset views.
• Tamsui Ferry Pier: Strolled about 10 minutes down the Old Street promenade to catch a direct ferry across the river to Bali District or further down the coast to Fisherman’s Wharf. You can tap your EasyCard to board.

3. History & Culture

• Tamsui Cultural Park (Shell Warehouse): Located immediately to the right of the station exit (less than a 3-minute walk). This is a hidden-gem heritage park featuring beautifully preserved 19th-century red-brick warehouses formerly owned by the Shell Transport and Trading Company. It’s free to enter, less crowded, and features old rail tracks.
• Historical Hillside Sites: If you catch a short local bus (like the Red 26) from the station’s bus island, you can easily reach Tamsui’s iconic colonial fortresses including Fort San Domingo, the Little White House, and the traditional Japanese-style Tada Eikichi Residence.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

15. Lalaport Nangang Taipei City

Calling all shopping and food lovers! Taipei’s newest mega-mall, Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Nangang, is officially open and it is massive! 

With over 300 brands, it’s the perfect place to beat the heat or escape a rainy day. Here is what you can’t miss:

 The world’s first overseas official Harry Potter store (a total must-visit for muggles! 

 Japanese supermarket LOPIA for incredible fresh food and snacks 

 Huge flagship versions of MUJI, UNIQLO, and GU

 A massive food court featuring local favorites like Lin Congming Claypot Fish Head! 

It’s super easy to get to—just a 3-minute walk from Nangang Exhibition Center MRT Station.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

16. Harry Potter Flagship Store Lalaport Nangang Taipei City

Witches, Wizards, and Muggles… Taipei just got a whole lot more magical! 

The first official permanent overseas Harry Potter store, Harry Potter – Mahou Dokoro哈利波特–魔法之地, has officially cast its spell at Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Nangang! No need to fly to Japan or London to get your Hogwarts fix anymore. 

 Must-See Magical Spots:
• Snap a photo at the iconic Platform 9¾ complete with a luggage trolley
• Gaze at moving Hogwarts-style portraits and look for floating acceptance letters 

• Keep an eye out for a hidden Dobby the House-Elf hiding inside the store! 

Exclusive & Rare Merch:
• Official Hogwarts robes from all 4 houses, wands, and house scarves 

• A stunning 1:1 replica of the Nimbus 2000 broomstick

• Interactive voice-activated wands and a Chocolate Frog music box that responds to spells! 

Location: 1F, LaLaport Nangang (Just a 3-minute walk from Nangang Exhibition Center MRT Station!)

 Hours: Sun–Thu: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM | Fri–Sat: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Pack your galleons and grab your cloaks! Which house do you belong to? 

 Drop your house emoji below! 

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

17. Ximending Taipei City

Ximending (西門町) is the ultimate hub for youth culture, street fashion, and diverse food options in Taipei, Taiwan. Known as the “Harajuku of Taipei,” this vibrant pedestrian shopping district perfectly blends historic Japanese colonial-era architecture with modern retail shops, street art, and legendary Taiwanese snacks.

Top Attractions & Landmarks

The Red House (西門紅樓)

A historic 1908 octagonal red-brick building. Today, it houses a creative design market, independent artisan shops, a theater, and a lively outdoor cluster of LGBTQ+ bars and cafes.

Ximending Walking District

Taipei’s first and largest 行人徒步區 (pedestrian zone). Closed to vehicles in the afternoons and weekends, it is packed with clothing boutiques, cosmetics stores, and talented street performers.

Rainbow Six Pedestrian Crossing

Located right outside MRT Ximen Station Exit 6, this massive rainbow-painted crosswalk is one of the most popular photo spots in the city.

Tucked away near Kunming Street, this alleyway is famous for its vibrant street graffiti, skateboarding lifestyle shops, and vintage/second-hand clothing stores.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

Taipei Tianhou Temple (台北天后宮)

A centuries-old Mazu temple hidden seamlessly between modern commercial buildings, offering a peaceful glimpse into local religious traditions.

Legendary Local Food Spots

Ah Chung Flour-Rice Noodles (阿宗麵線)

Famous for its silky smooth wheat noodles in a rich, smoky bonito broth topped with braised pig intestines. There are no tables or chairs, so you will see crowds of tourists standing right on the street to eat.

Tiantianli Restaurant (天天利美食坊)

A local favorite serving comforting braised pork rice with a fried, runny egg (半熟蛋滷肉飯) and classic Taiwanese oyster omelets.

Lao Tian Lu (老天祿滷味)

A historical shop famous for traditional Taiwanese cold braised snacks (Lu Wei). Their braised duck tongues and wings are highly sought after by foreign visitors and celebrities alike.

Modern Toilet Restaurant

A unique, quirky themed restaurant where you sit on toilets and eat meals served in miniature porcelain toilet bowls.

Practical Travel Information

• How to Get There: Take the Taipei MRT Bannan Line (Blue Line) or Songshan-Xindian Line (Green Line) and get off at Ximen Station (西門站). Use Exit 6 to walk directly into the heart of the pedestrian shopping district.
• Best Time to Visit: While stores start opening around noon, the district truly comes alive after 5:00 PM when the neon lights turn on and night market-style food stalls set up along the pedestrian walkways.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

18. Soochow University Taipei City

Soochow University (東吳大學) is a highly respected private university in Taipei. Established in Suzhou in 1900 and later reactivated in Taiwan in 1951, it holds the distinction of being the first private university in Taiwan.

For travelers, the university offers a serene campus setting that stands in stark contrast to the busy streets of downtown Taipei. It is divided into two distinct campuses: the scenic Waishuangxi Campus (main campus) and the metropolitan Downtown Campus.

Main Campus: Waishuangxi Campus (外雙溪校區)

Located in the Shilin District, this is the primary location for tourists. Nestled against lush green hills with the Shuangxi River flowing right past its entrance, it is highly praised for its beautiful, semi-rural natural scenery.

• Chien Mu House (錢穆故居): Situated right inside the campus grounds, this is the preserved former residence of Dr. Chien Mu, one of China’s most historic and celebrated modern historians and philosophers. The serene courtyard and traditional study offer an insightful cultural stop.
• The Riverfront Walkway: A peaceful path along the edge of the campus running alongside the Shuangxi River, popular for relaxing strolls and viewing local birdlife.
• Ward Memorial Methodist Church: A beautiful on-campus chapel that speaks to the university’s historical Methodist roots, serving as a quiet architectural landmark.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

City Center: Downtown Campus (城中校區)

Located in the Boai District (Zhongzheng District) right in the political and financial heartbeat of Taipei. This campus is small and compact, housing the highly prestigious School of Law and School of Business.

• What to see: While it doesn’t feature natural landscapes, it sits right next to major historic sights like the Presidential Office Building, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and the judicial buildings of Taipei.

Nearby Attractions (Waishuangxi Area)

Because the main campus is nestled in a highly cultural corridor, it is exceptionally easy to combine a campus visit with other world-class sights:

• National Palace Museum – Located just a few minutes down the road, housing one of the largest collections of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts in the world.
• Shuangxi Park and Chinese Garden – A beautiful, quiet traditional Chinese garden featuring classic pavilions, stone bridges, and large lotus ponds.
• Shilin Night Market – One of Taipei’s largest and most famous night markets, located just a short bus or taxi ride away towards the MRT station.

Practical Information for Visitors

• Getting to Waishuangxi Campus: Take the Taipei MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Shilin Station (士林站). From Exit 1, you can take a short 5-minute taxi ride or catch frequent local buses (such as 255, 304, 620, or Small 18) directly to the Soochow University stop.
• Getting to Downtown Campus: Take the MRT to Ximen Station (西門站) or Xiaonanmen Station (小南門站); the urban campus is within a short 5-to-10 minute walking radius.
• Visitor Etiquette: Both locations are active, operating campuses. While the public areas, outdoor spaces, and Chien Mu House are open to visitors, please avoid entering academic buildings, classrooms, or libraries during school hours.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

19. Taipei Metro Mall Taipei City

Taipei’s network of underground metro malls offers one of the city’s most unique, weather-proof shopping experiences, spanning kilometers directly beneath the bustling streets. Rather than a single mall, “Taipei Metro Mall” typically refers to several major interconnected underground shopping districts spread across the Taipei MRT network. They are the perfect refuge on scorching summer afternoons or rainy days.

The Big Three Underground Metro Malls

1. Taipei City Mall (台北地下街 – Y Zone)

Located right underneath Civic Boulevard and connected directly to Taipei Main Station, this is the largest and most legendary underground market in Taiwan. Spanning over 825 meters, it is a bustling maze divided into clear retail zones.

• The Vibe: Often dubbed the “Akihabara of Taipei,” it is a massive paradise for anime lovers, gamers, and collectors.
• What to Find: A massive collection of capsule toy machines (Gashapon), video game stores, anime figurines, inexpensive clothing, and local food stalls.
• How to Get There: Head to Taipei Main Station and follow the bright yellow signs for the Y Zone.

2. Zhongshan Metro Mall (中山地下街 – R Zone)

This linear underground street stretches roughly 815 meters, linking Taipei Main Station, MRT Zhongshan Station, and MRT Shuanglian Station.

• The Vibe: Quiet, creative, and intellectual. It sits directly beneath the beautiful above-ground Xinzhongshan Linear Park.
• What to Find: It houses the Zhongshan Underground Book Street, lined with vast rows of independent and mainstream bookstores. You will also find boutique stationery shops, record stores, indie cafes, and open mirrored dance spaces where local students practice breakdancing.
• How to Get There: Enter from the underground level of MRT Zhongshan or Shuanglian Station (Red Line).

3. East Metro Mall (東區地下街)

Located in the trendy Da’an District, this 725-meter walkway bridges MRT Zhongxiao Fuxing Station and MRT Zhongxiao Dunhua Station.

• The Vibe: Modern, trendy, and lifestyle-oriented.
• What to Find: It features global retail anchors like the underground Eslite Spectrum Metro Dunhua, alongside cosmetics shops, trendy casual clothing, Korean fashion boutiques, and modern dessert cafes.
• How to Get There: Head underground at either Zhongxiao Fuxing or Zhongxiao Dunhua Station (Blue Line).

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

---

Quick Comparison Table

Metro Mall	Main Character / Specialty	Best For	Connected MRT Stations
Taipei City Mall (Y Zone)	Anime, Gaming, Bargains	Figurines, video games, cheap souvenirs	Taipei Main Station / Beimen
Zhongshan Metro Mall	Literary, Artsy, Relaxed	Books, stationery, cafes, local clothing	Taipei Main / Zhongshan / Shuanglian
East Metro Mall	Trendy, Fashion-Forward	Boutique shopping, cosmetics, modern lifestyle	Zhongxiao Fuxing / Zhongxiao Dunhua

---

Crucial Tourist Tips for Navigating

• Watch the Letters: Taipei Main Station’s underground network can be highly confusing and is widely nicknamed “The Great Taipei Labyrinth” by locals. Pay strict attention to the colored letter prefixes on signs: Y is Taipei City Mall, Z is the Station Front Mall, K is the Metro A8 Mall, and R leads to Zhongshan.
• Look for Tourist Centers: The main information counters inside Taipei City Mall (Y Zone) offer paper maps and a designated Taiwan Tourist Stamp station where you can stamp your travel journals.
• Operating Hours: Most shops across the underground malls operate roughly from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM or 10:00 PM daily.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

20. Tianmu Taipei City

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

Tianmu is Taipei’s premier international suburban enclave, nestled at the northern edge of the city against the foothills of Yangmingshan.

Originally a residential neighborhood for U.S. military personnel and their families from the 1950s to 1979, it features a distinct American-style grid layout, tree-lined avenues, and an exceptionally English-friendly environment. It remains home to Taipei’s major international schools, making it a culturally diverse, relaxed sanctuary away from the crowded city center.

Tianmu Historic Trail
A beautifully shaded, popular hiking trail located at the northern end of Section 7, Zhongshan North Road. It features stone steps tracking an old Japanese-era water supply pipeline up toward Yangmingshan. Keep an eye out for wild Formosan rock macaques (monkeys) jumping through the forest canopy!

Tianmu Creative and Flea Market (天母市集)Held on weekends at the intersection of Tianmu East and West Roads, this bustling open-air market is a treasure trove of handmade crafts, vintage goods, pre-loved clothes, and local art.

Zhishanyan Cultural and Historical Park
Located just south of central Tianmu, this isolated hill offers a quick 15-minute wooden boardwalk hike. It is packed with deep archaeological significance, ancient temple architecture, and views over northern Taipei.

Tianmu Sports Park & Baseball Stadium
A massive, lively green space featuring Tianmu Dreamland—home to a massive 9-meter-tall baseball-themed playground slide for kids. It is a prime community hub where professional CPBL baseball games are hosted.

Tianmu offers three major Western and Japanese-style department complexes packed with global brands: Dayeh Takashimaya (famous for its huge indoor aquarium), SOGO Tianmu (located right near MRT Zhishan Station), and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Tianmu.

Shidong Market (士東市場): Celebrated as one of the cleanest, most modern traditional indoor markets in Taiwan. The first floor features pristine fruit, vegetable, and seafood vendors, while the second floor serves up cheap, iconic local Taiwanese comfort food.

Charming Cafe Culture: The neighborhood boasts one of Taipei’s highest densities of specialty coffee shops. Strolling down the golden rain tree-lined Zhongcheng Road or exploring the residential lanes of Section 7 reveals beautiful boutique cafes, European bakeries, and brunch spots.

Tianmu does not have an MRT station directly in its central shopping blocks, which helps preserve its quiet, slow-paced charm.

By Metro & Bus: Take the Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) to MRT Zhishan Station or MRT Shipai Station. From there, take a short 5-to-10-minute bus ride (such as the Zhongshan Main Line, Chongqing Main Line, or Bus 616) straight into the heart of Tianmu.

Best Things to Do in Taiwan in 2026

Also Read: Exciting Tourist Spots in Taiwan https://everydaywithgen.com/exciting-tourist-spots-in-taiwan-2026/