Taipei's Suburbs

Taipei is itself a vast city with numerous attractions vying for a visitor’s time. Still, the city limits hold only half the magic. Outer lying districts, or suburbs, if you will, hold numerous gems of their own.

Here are the best of the best of Taipei’s four major suburban areas (keep in mind that urban sprawl has made the entire area of Taipei country into one large metropolis. The “suburbs” mentioned below are those that are most accessible from central Taipei. They are near enough to be convenient for day trips from Taipei):

1. Beitou is famous for its hot springs. This northern suburb was once a rough and tumble place, most known for its red light district. There days, spas catering to hot springs visitors are the central attraction. The municipal government made a real effort at the turn of the century and was able to “clean up” the area. Qingshui Park is a popular place for public bathhouses. Millennium Hot Spring is a budget choice for spa goers. Many hotels in the area have spas as well.

2. Beitou’s neighboring district is Shilin. This area is known for its many museums. It is easily reached via train from anywhere in Taipei. The National Palace Museum is the biggest and most recognizable of Shilin’s museums. The Museum had an interesting start. As nationalist forces fled Beijing in front of the communist advance, they took with them as many of the country’s national treasures as they could carry. They were brought to Taiwan and are now on display in The National Palace Museums exhibit halls. The exterior of the museum is quite impressive. The Taipei Astronomical Museum is another Shilin exhibit hall worth a look. In addition to exhibits, there is an observatory and an IMAX theater.

3. Dahu Park is the main attraction in Neihu District. Swimming is possible in the park’s pools. There is also a crowded but nice trail for hiking.

4. Wenshan is located south of central Taipei. It is famous for its numerous tea plantations and also for the Taipei Zoo. Maokong area is home to many teahouses. It is also a pleasant place for a hike through mountainous terrain.

The best way to reach any of these destinations is rail or bus. There are also hotels and guesthouses in each of these areas. These are viable accommodation options depending on what you want to focus on in your trip. Keep in mind that staying in central Taipei would allow convenient transport to all four of the districts mentioned above.