Yunlin is a rural county in western Taiwan that for many expats is simply a large landmass on their way to another destination. However, there are many worthwhile places to visit here, such as interesting historical sites, natural beauty, and rich culture worth exploring.
Below I will list some of the best places in Yunlin that I have visited. I will be sure to update this blog as I visit more places later. □️ Planning your trip to Yunlin? □ Here are some top travel tips for you:
Historical Background:
Before Han Chinese settlement, Yunlin was inhabited by native peoples. During the Dutch era in Taiwan in the 1600s, Chinese farmers first began to move here. One notable Chinese pioneer was Yan Siqi (also known as Pedro Chino, or the Pioneer King of Taiwan). He created a settlement in Ponkan (modern day Beigang, Yunlin) and recruited over 3000 farmers from Fujian and nearby regions in China to come farm in Taiwan. He also had 13 ships and a merchant trade and formed an alliance with the local indigenous population.
Dutch and Chinese farmers introduced mango, sweet potato, pineapple, and many other crops to Taiwan at this time. During the Qing Dynasty, Yunlin became its own county under governor Liu Mingchuan. The most economically important town, Douliu, continued to be the center of commerce in the Japanese era, and the area was combined with Tainan County. In 1950 Yunlin became its own county again, and Douliu was upgraded to a city. Douliu is unique because it is the largest city in Yunlin, but is not named after Yunlin County like all the other largest cities in each county (there is no Yunlin City). Currently, Yunlin's economy is mainly composed of agriculture and fishing. The population of Yunlin County is about 650,000 and continues to drop every year due to emigration, with young people moving to bigger cities for work opportunities. In addition, the area is underdeveloped compared with other places in Taiwan. How to get around in Yunlin?
As always, we recommend renting a scooter as the best way to see Taiwan. However, you can also a great deal of Yunlin by taking the train, inter-city bus, or local bus (there is no MRT in Yunlin). Getting around in a car is also a convenient option as there is plenty of parking pretty much everywhere in this less crowded county.
By Scooter:
Looking for scooter rental in Yunlin? Check out Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here.
By Car:
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.
By Bus/Train:
You can book tickets to travel to Yunlin via inter-city bus on Klook here.
You can book tickets to Yunlin via high speed rail (HSR) on Klook here or KKDay here. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. By Bicycle:
Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can search on KKday here and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here.
Basic Yunlin Travel Tips:
When should you go to Yunlin?
In my opinion, the best weather in Yunlin is from October - March, when the temperatures stay around 26 degrees Celsius and there is not as much rain.
Summers are also nice, with the most sunny weather, but also hot and rainy. Winters can be cold and windy but usually dry. Overall, there is no wrong answer as to what time of year you should visit Yunlin. You will have a great time here at any time of year. Where to stay:
We have stayed at and recommend Ai Ni Ya Hotel, with great quality and service right in downtown Beigang (book on Agoda here or Booking.com here).
We also recommend the Grand Earl Hotel, a high class hotel in central Douliu (book on Agoda here or Booking.com here) Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Agoda here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation on the islands. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Tours in Yunlin:
Tours and activities in Yunlin include Janfusun Fancy World Amusement Park, Kite Surfing, Tree Climbing , Chaoyang Green Energy Farm, Sam Siu Garden, Pink Castle Park, Gukeng Green Tunnel, Caoling Highway, and more.
You can find more tours of Yunlin on Klook here or KKday here. Yunlin Tourist Sites Map:
You can see a map of all the places that we will visit in this blog below:
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Current time and date in Taiwan:
Did you know that Taiwan once used daylight savings time? In this blog, in addition to the current time and date in Taiwan, we will cover the history of telling time in Taiwan, as well as a table of ROC years, Japanese Imperial Years, and Chinese Dynastical Years which can be a useful reference when researching Taiwan's history.
Q: What time is it in Taiwan right now? A: You can check the current time and date for Taiwan above (12-hour): You can also check the current time for Taiwan below (24-hour): Q: What is the current date in Taiwan right now? A: You can check the current date for Taiwan above.
Q: What is the current date in Taiwan right now in ROC years? What is the ROC year for Taiwan?
You can check the current date for Taiwan in ROC years below:
Current Date, ROC Year:
Q: What Time Zone does Taiwan use?
A: Taiwan uses the China Standard Time (CST) time zone, which is UTC/GMT +8 hours, in other words, it is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Q: Does Taiwan have different time zones? A: No, Taiwan has the same time zone throughout the whole country, which is China Standard Time (CST) (UTC/GMT +8 hours). This means it is the same time in Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung, along with all the outer islands like Kinmen, Matsu, Green Island, and Lanyu.
Is Taiwan a country? Yes, Taiwan is a country. Here is why.
Taiwan is a country because it has its own government, free elections, its own military, and the people of Taiwan consider themselves Taiwanese, and not part of China. Sadly, the status of Taiwan as a country is often disregarded or ignored due to pressure from China which claims Taiwan as its territory. In this blog, we will explain why Taiwan is a country in simple terms for all those who are truly curious regarding the geopolitical status of Taiwan. Taiwan meets the dictionary definition of a country. (臺灣符合字典中對國家的定義.) Nanjichang Night Market (南機場夜市) is a large night market area in Zhongzheng District of Taipei known for its variety of food stalls and local crowds. The night market sits far away from the MRT station, meaning that usually only locals will snack here and prices are generally cheaper. Popular foods here include meatballs, sesame flatbread, stinky tofu, and more. It is definitely an authentic Taipei night market experience.
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Historical Background: Nanjichang Night Market Market was first established on February 3, 1986. Its name originates from the fact that before the construction of Taipei Songshan Airport, this area was used as an airport during the Japanese era, hence the name “Nanjichang” (literally meaning Southern Airport). Later on during the ROC era, several public housing communities here for the families of the Republic of China military personnel were constructed over the former airstrip. Over time, due to the large number of people frequenting the area, a variety of food stalls gathered here, gradually developing into the bustling Nanjichang Night Market. Known for its affordable and reasonably priced food, Nanjichang Night Market mainly serves local residents instead of tourists. Most of the stalls here are independently operated, and most of the vendors sell food. Notable foods here include “ba-wan” (Taiwanese meatballs) which were featured on CNN, as well as the Michelin Guide recommendations for sesame flatbread, stinky tofu, spring rolls, and sesame oil chicken. Although it is called a “night market,” some vendors operate throughout the morning, afternoon, and evening. The night market is usually not too crowded even on weekends and holidays. Hours: Roughly 5 PM to 12 PM. Price: Free Where to stay: We have stayed at and recommend the Taipei Marriot (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). We have also stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Activities in Taipei: You can look for more activities in Taipei such as Rock Climbing, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, Diving, Snorkeling, Cooking Class, Glamping, Motorcycling, and more on Klook here or KKday here. How to get there: By Car/Scooter: The night Market is between Xizang Road and Nanhao Road in Zhongzheng District. There is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bus/MRT: From Taipei Main Station, you can take bus 249 right to the night market. The trip takes about 15 minutes. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map: Please see below to see: Shen Ao Railbike is a short bicycle ride on an old Railway line on the coast of Ruifang, New Taipei. Visitors are seated two people per bicycle car, which has a roof and great views of the ocean scenery nearby. Overall it is a fun adventure for the whole family.
Historical Background: Originally the Shen’ao Railway was constructed during the Japanese era in 1936 for transport of coal and other mine exports. After World War II, Taiwan Metal Mining Co. took over but ceased operations in 1962 due to financial difficulties. TRA built a new Shen’ao Line that opened in 1965 for freight, extending passenger services in 1967. Services ended again in 1989 due to the completion of the new oceanside highway and the closure of a coal power plant in the area, but the line was revived in 2014 to support the museum and related tourism activities. In 2019, a Railbike attraction was introduced between Badouzi and Shen’ao using the old railway tracks on a 1.3 KM long track. In 2024, services between the National Marine Science Museum and Badouzi were suspended for slope improvement works, expected to be completed by 2025. Hours:Roughly 9 AM to 5 PM. Price:150 NT per one-way trip per person 300 NT per round trip per person You can book tickets for a discount on KKday here. Schedule: Departure Times: Badouzi Station → Shen’ao Station09:00 10:00 11:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 Departure Times: Shen’ao Station → Badouzi Station09:30 10:30 11:30 13:30 14:30 15:30 16:30 For up-to-date times, please check the Shen’ao Railbike website here. Rules:
Where to stay: We recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). We have stayed at and recommend Gold Mountain Ranch, which is a horse ranch and glamping destination in Jinshan. You can book a night at Gold Mountain Ranch on Klook here. You can also check out our full blog on the ranch here. We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Activities in Taipei:At Shen’ao there are many activities available to enjoy such as kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, SUP / paddle boarding, water biking, and more activities which you can book on Klook here or KKday here. How to get there: By Car/Scooter: Drive to Keelung, then from downtown take provincial Highway 2 east about 10 KM until you reach the Badouzi Station, and there is some free parking parking across the street. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. Looking for scooter rental in northern Taiwan? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Train/Bus: Take the TRA to Badouzi (八斗子) station, then walk about 200 M east until you reach the rail bike station. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT and buses from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a cycling tour on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map: Please see below to see: Beitou Park is a large park near Xinbeitou MRT Station with a hot spring river running through it. It is a nice place to enjoy natural scenery inside the bustling Beitou hot springs district. The park is also full of history, dating back to the Japanese area, and there are many interesting sites within the park.
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Historical Background: Beitou Park (aka New Beitou Park) was the third park established in Taipei City, following Yuanshan Park and 228 Peace Memorial Park, and was the first hot spring park in Taiwan, covering an area of approximately 3.98 hectares. During the Japanese era of Taiwan in 1901, the completion of the railway between Taipei and Tamsui led to a surge in visitors to Beitou. In 1911, Beitou Park was established and included features such as water channels, fountains, and public bathhouses. On June 17, 1913, Beitou Park officially opened, and the Beitou Hot Spring Public Bathhouse was constructed at that time. The bathhouse was managed by the public health office of the Taipei District and cost a total of 56,000 yen to build. Alongside the bathhouse, the surrounding environment was also improved. In April 1916, the New Beitou Line, a railway branch from Beitou Station, was completed to facilitate access to the hot springs. The park featured a circular plaza with planted trees, ponds, small bridges, fountains, and benches for visitors to rest. Around the park, hot spring inns, restaurants, clubs, and other entertainment facilities were established, making the park the core area of Beitou’s hot spring tourism. The fountain in front of the library was featured in the movie Turn Left, Turn Right as the meeting place of the film’s protagonists. Local residents later petitioned to revert the park’s name to “Beitou Park,” arguing that the longer name “Beitou Hot Spring Waterside Park” was too cumbersome. In 2020, Beitou Park and its surrounding landscape, including the children’s playground, were officially registered as a cultural landscape of Taipei City. Hours: 24/7 Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours: You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can also take the S9 or S26 bus further up the mountain if needed. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. Many of the hotels here provide free parking for guests. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Please see a list of places we will cover in the map below: Beitou ‘s Hot Spring Museum (北投溫泉博物館) was once the largest bathhouse in East Asia during the Japanese era, dating back to 1911. However, after its heyday, the bathhouse fell into disrepair. Now it has been renovated into a museum celebrating the hot spring history and culture in Beitou. It is a must-see if you visit Beitou.
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In 1894 during the Qing Dynasty, the first person to establish a hot spring in Beitou was German sulfur merchant Ouely. The following year, Japanese Rear Admiral Tsunoda Hidematsu and Taipei County Secretary Nirei Keiji inspected the hot springs. On November 10, 1895, Governor Kabayama Sukenori also visited, and a public bath area began to form near today’s Beitou Hot Spring Museum. In 1905 funds were raised to construct Puji Temple, dedicated to the goddess of hot springs, Kannon, to bless the local hot spring industry. In 1911, construction began on the Beitou Public Hot Springs which was established under the direction of the Taipei Prefecture, modeled after the hot springs of Izu in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. It cost more than 56,000 yen to build, and construction was finally finished in 1913. In the late 1920s, members of the Japanese imperial family, including Prince Asaka Yasuhiko, visited Beitou’s public baths. In 1954, Beitou became a legally recognized red-light district. The practice was abolished in 1979, and Beitou has since shifted focus to tourism and leisure. In the 1960s and 1970s, the number of hot spring inns in Beitou peaked, with over 70 inns in operation. However, from 1975 onwards, the industry began to decline due to poor management, lack of public infrastructure, and excessive development. In 1995, a local movement to save the Beitou Public Bathhouse succeeded, leading to its restoration as the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, which was designated a historic site in 1998. In 1999, the Tourism Bureau declared it the “Year of Beitou Hot Springs,” revitalizing the industry. Beitou Hot Springs, along with Caoshan, Guanziling, and Sichongxi Hot Springs, was one of the four major hot springs in Taiwan during the Japanese era. Beitou Hot Springs is a popular tourist attraction, especially with local Taiwanese people and Japanese tourists. The winter is the most popular season. Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM Closed Mondays Price: Free Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. The museum is about a five-minute walk from the MRT station. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. There is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map:Please see a list of places we will cover in the map below: Thermal Valley (aka Geothermal Valley, Ghost Lake, Jade Spring Valley, or Hell Valley 地熱谷) is a bubbling and steaming turquoise pool, that is one of the sources of Beitou’s hot springs and one of only two green sulfur hot springs in the world. Here you can take a walk around the entire pool, enjoy the scenery, and understand more about the history and geology of the area. With convenient transportation from the MRT and free entrance, it is a popular tourist destination in Beitou. It is definitely a must-see spot if you visit Beitou.
Table of Contents Historical Background: Thermal Valley is called Ghost Lake or Hell Valley because the constant steam and rising heat evoke an eerie image of hell. In the past, some visitors have accidentally fallen into the scalding hot springs and were tragically burned to death, which is why it is also known as “Hell Valley.” The narrow definition of Beitou Hot Springs categorizes the springs by their composition: the geothermal springs of Thermal Valley (green sulfur springs, 50–90°C and highly acidic), the white sulfur springs of Sulfur Valley (pH of 3–5, and a temperature of about 45°C), and iron-sulfur springs located in Upper Beitou (neutral carbonate hot springs, with a lower temperature of about 40–60°C). During the Japanese occupation period, Geothermal Valley was rated as one of Taiwan’s eight scenic spots and twelve landscapes, renowned as “Sulfur Spring Jade Mist.” This is due to the mesmerizing play of light and steam in the morning when the sunlight hits the rising steam, creating an enchanting, dream-like scene. The water’s faintly green, jade-like clarity led some to call it “Jade Spring Valley.” The spring contains trace amounts of radium, which is said to have health benefits, and supplies hot springs to nearby public bathhouses or hotels near Beitou Park. In earlier times, locals would bring eggs to Geothermal Valley to cook “hot spring eggs.” However, due to scalding incidents and environmental concerns, this practice was stopped. The Taipei Water Department, responsible for maintenance, also noted that the hot springs are sulfate and sulfate chloride springs with heavy metals, which pose health risks and are not recommended for cooking eggs. The government renovated Thermal Valley in 2023, channeling the spring water into a lake surrounded by pathways and railings. There are pavilions along the walkways where visitors can enjoy the view, and shallow stone and concrete water channels that were previously available for free foot soaking, but that are now closed off. The city government has incorporated Thermal Valley into Beitou Hot Spring Park, now designated as the Beitou Hot Springs Water Park. The area is usually popular, especially on weekends and holidays. Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours: You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can walk about ten minutes to Thermal Valley. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. There is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Penghu Serpent Head Mountain (Shetoushan) 澎湖蛇頭山 – Explore Ruins of the First Dutch Fort in Taiwan10/23/2024 Serpent Head Mountain is the highest point in Penghu and is one of Taiwan’s top 100 lesser peaks. It is also home to the first western fort built in Taiwan; this was the first spot where the Dutch established a trading post in Taiwan before colonizing the island. It also has a memorial to French soldiers and the wreck of a Japanese warship. It is a beautiful and historically important location in Penghu that is definitely worth a visit.
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Historical Background: Shetou Mountain is a peak located in Fenggui Village, Magong City, Penghu County, Taiwan, with an elevation of 20 meters. It is one of Taiwan’s “Small 100 Peaks” but is the shortest in this list in terms of altitude. The mountain is situated at Fengguiwei Peninsula. The hill is part of the Shetou Mountain Recreation Area. The Dutch Fort at Fengguiwei (馬公風櫃尾荷蘭城堡), also known as Penghu Fortress (澎湖堡壘) or Tianqi Red-Haired Castle (天啟紅毛城), was built by the Dutch East India Company in December 1622. The Dutch referred to it as Het Fort, Péou (Piscadore). The fortress was part of the Dutch East India Company’s broader strategy in the 17th century to establish a trade network and gain access to lucrative routes in East Asia. Initially, the Dutch sought to set up a base in Macau but turned to Penghu after encountering resistance. Constructed with local materials like soil, grass, and rocks, it was intended to protect Dutch interests against the Portuguese and Spanish forces active in the region. However, after a series of conflicts with the Ming Dynasty, the fortress was demolished by the Dutch as part of an agreement with the Chinese in September 1624. Today, the site remains a historic landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into Taiwan’s colonial past. Although the fort was functional and strategically located, it faced challenges such as food shortages and damage from typhoons. The remnants of Fengguiwei Fort are now recognized as a national heritage site. Activities: Besides soaking in sun rays at the beach, there are many activities available in Penghu such as snorkeling, diving, wind surfing, sailing, canoeing, wakeboarding, massage, yachting, glamping, trampoline Water Sports, SUP / Paddle Boarding, kayaking, night fishing and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:There are many tours and activities available on the islands such as Island Hopping Tour, starlight Marine Ranch, seafood Barbeque, Sheraton Four Points Eatery, Dragon Palace Intertidal Zone, Jibei Sand Tail, and many more options on Klook here or KKday here. For more information, look at other tour/ferry sites or book a personalized tour with Klook here or KKday here. Where to Stay:We have stayed at and recommend Han’s Hostel which had great service and is right next to Shanshui Beach, the best beach in Penghu (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, or Trip.com here) a newly renovated homestay in downtown Magong with great service and great prices (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Agoda here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation on the islands. You can also find out more about where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide here. When to go to Penghu:The best time to go is Autumn. Spring is also a nice time to go, but there is a greater chance of spring showers during that time. The summers may be too hot, and winters too cold and windy. How to get to Penghu: By Plane: There are daily flights from Taipei Songshan, Taichung, and Kaohsiung airports to Makung. the flight takes roughly under an hour. Rates can range from around 2200-6000 NT for a round trip. There are also flights to and from Chiayi, Tainan, Kinmen, and Chimei, with charted flights to Hong Kong starting in September 2018. There are flights to and from Taipei Songshan Airport three times a day via Uni Air. You can book flights on KKday here, Trip.com here, CheapO Air here, or Kiwi here. By Boat: There are daily ferries from Chiayi and Kaohsiung. A one-way trip takes about 4 hours from both locations. A one-way ferry from Kaohsiung costs about 900 NT for just a reclining seat, and a one-way ferry from Chiayi costs about 1000 NT. By Ferry: You can book ferry boat tickets from Chiayi on Klook here, or ferry boat tickets from Tainan on KKday here. How to Get to Serpent Head Mountain: By Scooter: From Makung, take Highway 201 southwest until it ends. You will find the hill at the end of the road past Fenggui Fishing Harbor. There is a free parking lot there. We recommend taking a scooter as the most efficient and convenient type of transport on the islands. However, most places require a local scooter license. You can rent a scooter for Penghu on Klook here or on KKday here. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Car / taxi: From Makung, take Highway 201 southwest until it ends. You will find the hill at the end of the road past Fenggui Fishing Harbor. There is a free parking lot there. A car is also sensible in Penghu because the main island is pretty spread out. You can rent a car for Penghu on Klook here or on KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bus: You can get to Serpent Heand Mountain via bus 51 on the Fenggui Line. The bus stop is called Fenggui. The Serpent Head Mountain is about a 20 minute walk north from the bus stop. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can search on KKday here and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Puji Temple (普濟寺 aka Lingquan Mountain Puji Temple 靈泉山普濟寺 or Tiezhenyuan, 鐵真院) is a Buddhist temple in Beitou, dating back to the Japanese era of Taiwan. It is one of the most well-preserved temples dating back to the Japanese era and is definitely worth a stop if you visit Beitou.
Table of Contents Historical Background: After the Japanese took control of Taiwan in 1898, three Buddhist monks of the Myoshinji Branch of the Rinzai Zen Sect were sent to Taiwan. In 1905 funds were raised from Railway Department employees to construct Puji Temple, dedicated to a statue of the goddess of hot springs, Kannon or “Guanyin of Hot Springs,” to bless the local hot spring industry. In January 1916, a shrine was hastily set up to hold a memorial service for the passing of Murakami Shoichi, an employee, even though the temple had not yet been completed. The local followers decided to name the temple “Tiezhenyuan 鐵真院” after Murakami. Construction began in 1915 and was completed in January 1916. The temple served as a place of worship and gathering for Railway Department employees in Beitou. In 1923, Crown Prince Hirohito visited the temple. In 1934 the temple underwent a major expansion and was officially recognized as a full temple. After World War II, the temple was renamed “Lingquan Mountain Puji Temple 靈泉山普濟寺.” In 1998, Puji Temple was listed as a historical monument. The temple suffered damage during the 921 earthquake in 1999 and was further impacted by heavy rains in 2000. A restoration project took place in 2000 to restore the area. Currently, the temple is popular on weekends and holidays, especially with tourists. Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Price: Free Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there:By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can also take the S9 or S26 bus further up the mountain if needed. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. Many of the hotels here provide free parking for guests. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Aimen Beach is the longest beach in Penghu and may be the most popular beach in Penghu for water activities (澎湖隘門沙灘及林投公園). Popular activities include jet skiing, surfing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. The beautiful golden sand and clear blue waters are also great places for taking photos. In addition, Lintou Forest Park next to the beach is also a nice place to relax. It is an amazing beach destination in Penghu.
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Historical Background: Originally Aimen Beach was not a popular beach destination, but it began to gain recognition in 1998, when the village chief of Aimen initiated a community beach restoration plan. They installed sand fences and other facilities to intercept the wind and sand brought by the northeast monsoon, gradually accumulating sand. Their efforts eventually caught the attention of the county government and the Penghu National Scenic Area Administration, which allocated funds for the renovation of Aimen Beach, transforming it into a beautiful beach favored by tourists. In the summer, Aimen Beach becomes a popular spot for water activities. Aimen Beach is composed of coral, shell fragments, and the remains of foraminifera, among which the star-shaped foraminifera impresses visitors the most. The beach was a filming location for the popular TV drama “Love on the Chrysanthemum Island” (菊島之戀). Activities: Besides soaking in sun rays at the beach, there are many activities available in Penghu such as snorkeling, diving, wind surfing, sailing, canoeing, wakeboarding, massage, yachting, glamping, trampoline Water Sports, SUP / Paddle Boarding, kayaking, night fishing and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:There are many tours and activities available on the islands such as Island Hopping Tour, starlight Marine Ranch, seafood Barbeque, Sheraton Four Points Eatery, Dragon Palace Intertidal Zone, Jibei Sand Tail, and many more options on Klook here or KKday here. For more information, look at other tour/ferry sites or book a personalized tour with Klook here or KKday here. Where to Stay: We have stayed at and recommend Han’s Hostel which had great service and is right next to Shanshui Beach, the best beach in Penghu (you can book on Agoda here, Booking.com here, or Trip.com here) a newly renovated homestay in downtown Magong with great service and great prices (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Agoda here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation on the islands. You can also find out more about where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide here. When to go to Penghu:The best time to go is Autumn. Spring is also a nice time to go, but there is a greater chance of spring showers during that time. The summers may be too hot, and winters too cold and windy. How to get to Penghu: By Plane: There are daily flights from Taipei Songshan, Taichung, and Kaohsiung airports to Makung. the flight takes roughly under an hour. Rates can range from around 2200-6000 NT for a round trip. There are also flights to and from Chiayi, Tainan, Kinmen, and Chimei, with charted flights to Hong Kong starting September 2018. There are flights to and from Taipei Songshan Airport three times a day via Uni Air. You can book flights on KKday here, Trip.com here, CheapO Air here, or Kiwi here. By Boat: There are daily ferries from Chiayi and Kaohsiung. A one-way trip takes about 4 hours from both locations. A one-way ferry from Kaohsiung costs about 900 NT for just a reclining seat, and a one-way ferry from Chiayi costs about 1000 NT. By Ferry: You can book ferry boat tickets from Chiayi on Klook here, or ferry boat tickets from Tainan on KKday here. How to Get to Aimen Beach: By Scooter: From Makung, take Highway 204 southeast and then turn north on County Road 14. Then turn toward to coast once you come to Aimen Village. There is plenty of parking nearby. We recommend taking a scooter as the most efficient and convenient type of transport on the islands. However, most places require a local scooter license. You can rent a scooter for Penghu on Klook here or on KKday here. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Car / taxi: From Makung, take Highway 204 southeast and then turn north on County Road 14. Then turn toward to coast once you come to Aimen Village. There is plenty of parking nearby. A car is also sensible in Penghu because the main island is pretty spread out. You can rent a car for Penghu on Klook here or on KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bus: You can get to Aimen Beach via many buses. The bus stop is called Aimen Beach. The beach is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can search on KKday here and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Xinbeitou Historic Station (aka New Beitou Station 新北投車站) is an old train station originally built by the Japanese to bring tourists to the Beitou Hot Spring area. Now it has been restored into a museum and gift shop for visitors to enjoy. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Taipei.
Table of Contents Historical Background:The New Beitou train line, also known as the “Bath Line 湯線,” was a branch line of the TRA Tamsui line, connecting Beitou Station to the Beitou Hot Spring area, with a total distance of 1.2 KM. During the Japanese occupation, Hirata Gengo established Taiwan’s first hot spring inn, Tengu-an, in 1896, which spurred the development of the Beitou Hot Spring area. Soon, many other hot springs were formed in the area, including the Beitou Public Hot Spring. The New Beitou line was finished in 1916, and was constructed solely for hot spring tourism. After it began operation on April 1, 1916, the New Beitou Line helped boost the development of the hot spring area, which at its peak in 1935, boasted 35 hot spring inns. However, during World War II, in 1945, the tracks were removed and repurposed for defense needs (allegedly to prevent Allied forces from landing by placing the rails along the Tamsui coastline). The line was restored in August 1946, after the war. The original terminal, Xinbeitou Station, was initially planned for demolition during the construction of the MRT Xinbeitou Branch Line in the 1990s. However, the Taipei City Government symbolically sold the station to the Taiwan Folk Village for one New Taiwan dollar, preserving it in Changhua County. The station was donated to Taipei City, after which a work team from the Taipei City Government began architectural surveys and structural numbering at the Taiwan Folk Village, after which the station was dismantled and transported back to Beitou for reconstruction. Reconstruction on the station began in 2014 and was completed in 2016. Currently, the station is a popular historical site in Beitou. Hours: 24/7 Activities: Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can also take the S9 or S26 bus further up the mountain if needed. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. Many of the hotels here provide free parking for guests. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Please see a list of places we will cover in the map below: Beitou Public Library, also known as Beitou Green Library (北投綠色圖書館), is perhaps the most beautiful library in Taiwan. Built inside Beitou Park, it has great views of the park and includes high ceilings, large windows, and wooden floors and walls harking back to the Japanese era. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Beitou.
Table of Contents Historical Background: Beitou Library is a branch library of the Taipei Public Library system. It was originally established as a library under the Yangmingshan Management Office. In 1963, it was incorporated into the Taipei Public Library system. However, due to the use of beach sand in its construction and the insufficient strength of the concrete, the library was closed in 1987, and the building was demolished and rebuilt in 2002. The current library reopened in late 2006. The design focuses on integrating with the park’s natural environment, considering Beitou’s unique sulfurous geography by using wooden structures. The building also maximizes the use of large floor-to-ceiling windows to collect natural light. It is regarded as Taiwan’s first “green building” library, certified with a Diamond Grade Green Building Label. It is also perhaps Taipei’s most beautiful library. Hours:Monday9 AM–5 PM Tuesday8:30 AM–9 PM Wednesday8:30 AM–9 PM ThursdayClosed Friday8:30 AM–9 PM Saturday8:30 AM–9 PM Sunday9 AM–5 PM Activities:Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one-day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou. Where to Stay:High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We also recommend Fullon Hotel which has locations in Tamsui and Fulong near the beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Budget Hotels: We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend Hai Xia Your Home which is right in front of Fulong Beach (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there:By MRT: Take the MRT to Xinbeitou MRT station. From there you can also take the S25 bus Beitou Green Library. You can book tickets to travel to Taipei via inter-city bus on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: From downtown Taipei, take Provincial Highway 2 north to New Beitou MRT Station. There is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? Check out Klook here, or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan’s landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan’s many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. The Beitou Museum (aka Taiwan Folk Art Museum 北投文物館) is a former Japanese-era Hot Spring hotel that has now been turned into a museum and art exhibition space in Beitou District of Taipei. The building also includes restaurants and great views of Beitou. It is a great place to enjoy the history and culture of Beitou.
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Historical Background:In 1894 during the Qing Dynasty, the first person to establish a hot spring in Beitou was German sulfur merchant Ouely. The following year, Japanese Rear Admiral Tsunoda Hidematsu and Taipei County Secretary Nirei Keiji inspected the hot springs. On November 10, 1895, Governor Kabayama Sukenori also visited, and a public bath area began to form near today’s Beitou Hot Spring Museum. In 1905 funds were raised to to construct Puji Temple, dedicated to the goddess of hot springs, Kannon, to bless the local hot spring industry. In 1913, a public hot spring bath was established under the direction of the Taipei Prefecture, modeled after the hot springs of Izu in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. It cost more than 56,000 yen to build. In the late 1920s, members of the Japanese imperial family, including Prince Asaka Yasuhiko, visited Beitou’s public baths. The Beitou Museum was originally known as the Kazan Hotel and was built in 1921. It was known as the best hot spring hotel during the Japanese era and was used by Kamakazi pilots before their final flights. After the ROC took control of Taiwan, the building was converted into a dormitory for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was known as the Old Moon Manor 佳山宿舍. Later the building was taken over by a private owner and remade into the Taiwan Folk Art and Antique House (臺灣民藝文物之家), which preserved folk art and aboriginal art. Its name was later changed in 1987 to the current name, Beitou Museum (北投文物館). In 1998, the museum was designated as a national historic site. It is one of the largest wooden structures left from the Japanese era. Later, the building underwent renovations from 2002 to 2008. The museum is usually not very crowded and provides great views of the area. Hours:10 AM to 6 PM Closed Mondays Price120 NT per person You can book tickets for a discount on Klook here or KKday here. Yiran House 怡然居: Set meals are about 500-1000 NT You can book a discount meal on Klook here. Beitou Public Hot Spring (aka Millennium Hot Springs or Beitou Outdoor Public Hot Springs 北投公共溫泉) is a large outdoor public hot spring area in Beitou, Taipei. With a price of only 60 NT, and discounted tickets for locals, it is one of the most popular and economical ways to enjoy Beitou’s hot springs. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Beitou.
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Historical Background: Beitou’s hot springs are distributed along the Huangxi Valley, with such springs as Thermal Valley Hot Springs, Sulfur Valley Hot Springs, Upper Beitou Hot Springs, Shuangchong Creek Hot Springs, and Longfeng Valley Hot Springs. The Beitou Hot Springs are categorized as green sulfur springs (Thermal Valley, 50–90°C and highly acidic), White Sulfur springs (Sulfur Valley, pH of 3–5 and a temperature of about 45°C), and iron sulfur springs (Upper Beitou, eutral carbonate hot springs, with a lower temperature of about 40–60°C). In 1894 during the Qing Dynasty, the first person to establish a hot spring in Beitou was German sulfur merchant Ouely. The following year, Japanese Rear Admiral Tsunoda Hidematsu and Taipei County Secretary Nirei Keiji inspected the hot springs. On November 10, 1895, Governor Kabayama Sukenori also visited, and a public bath area began to form near today’s Beitou Hot Spring Museum. In 1954, Beitou became a legally recognized red-light district. The practice was abolished in 1979, and Beitou has since shifted focus to tourism and leisure. In the 1960s and 1970s, the number of hot spring inns in Beitou peaked, with over 70 inns in operation. However, from 1975 onwards, the industry began to decline due to poor management, lack of public infrastructure, and excessive development. In 1995, a local movement to save the Beitou Public Bathhouse succeeded, leading to its restoration as the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, which was designated a historic site in 1998. In 1999, the Tourism Bureau declared it the “Year of Beitou Hot Springs,” revitalizing the industry. Beitou Hot Springs, along with Caoshan, Guanziling, and Sichongxi Hot Springs, was one of the four major hot springs in Taiwan during the Japanese era. Beitou Hot Springs is a popular tourist attraction, especially with local Taiwanese people and Japanese tourists. The winter is the most popular season. Beitou Public Hot Springs, the open-air hot spring bath at Beitou Park, also known as “Millennium Bath,” opened in December 1999. The bath covers an area of about 1,000 square meters and is designed with a Japanese architectural style, utilizing natural materials such as stone and wood. The ticket booth and restroom roofs are built with black tiles. To maintain a hygienic environment, there are strict rules for bathers: they must wear swimsuits, shower caps, and shower before entering the hot spring pool. The facility operates six different time slots each day for visitors to enjoy. In 2022, partial renovations were carried out to update the aging handrails, uneven flooring, pool filtration systems, doors, and shading nets over the hot spring area. Hours: 5:30–7:30 AM 8–10 AM 10:30 AM–1 PM 1:30–4 PM 4:30–7 PM 7:30–10 PM Price: 60 NT per person Rules:
Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activities available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Marshall Zen Garden (also known as Shaoshuai Zen Garden 少帥展館) was originally a Japanese era Inn and home to Zhang Xueliang, an outcast Chinese warlord who spent more than 50 years on house arrest here. Now it has been renovated and converted into a restaurant, museum, and hot spring bath. Sitting in the hills of Beitou, it has great views of the surrounding area and Mount Guanyin. It is a great place to enjoy the scenery in Beitou.
Table of Contents Historical Background:Marshall Zen Garden was originally known as Xintaka Inn 新高旅社 which was built in 1920. Later, during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, served as a comfort station for Kamikaze pilots before their suicide missions. In the 1960s, Zhang Xueliang 張學良, the “Young Marshal” (Shaoshuai 少帥 in Chinese) who was placed under house arrest by Chiang Kai-shek, and also lived here in seclusion with his wife, Zhao Yidi 趙一荻. Zhang Xueliang, who lived through significant moments in Chinese modern history, was born in 1901 and was the son of a Chinese Warlord. After his father’s assassination by the Japanese in 1928, Zhang Xueliang took over leadership and played a critical role in the unification of China. Zhang initiated the Xi’an Incident. The Xi’an Incident occurred in December 1936, when Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng detained Chiang Kai-shek to force him to stop the civil war against the Chinese Communist Party. They demanded that Chiang focus on uniting with the communists to resist the growing threat of Japanese invasion. As a result, Chiang harbored deep hatred for Zhang especially because of losses during the Chinese Civil War, and kept him under house arrest for more than 50 years. Following the suggestion of Soong Mei-ling and with the approval of Chiang Ching-kuo, Zhang purchased the land with his own money and built a residence. He remained there until 1995, when he moved to Hawaii and sold the property. Xueliang passed away in Honolulu in 2001, at the age of 101, concluding a life that spanned a century and mirrored China’s turbulent history. Marshal Zen Garden is now a popular spot for tourists and can get crowded on the weekends. Wondering where to stay in the Beitou Hot Spring Area (北投最佳的溫泉英文介紹)? There are so many hot spring hotels in this area, that it may be hard to choose from. There are many hotels within walking distance from the MRT station as well as museums and historical sites. There are also hotels that are more secluded and private. In this blog, I will take you on a virtual tour to discover the best hotels in Beitou.
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Activities in Beitou:Besides soaking in hot springs, there are many activites available in Beitou such as Rock Climbing, Water Skiing, Kani Kimono Rental, Escape Experience, Beitou Museum, and more on Klook here or KKday here. Tours in Beitou:You can check out tours to Beitou such as a Beitou and Yangmingshan Day Tour, Beitou and Yeliu Day Tour, Beitou and Tamsui Day Tour, Beitou and National Palace Museum Tour, Beitou Muslim Friendly Tour, Beitou Arts and Culture Tour, Flower Season Tour, and more on Klook here or KKday here. You can also check out the Beitou Fun Package from KKday which includes a one day transportation coupon, hot spring coupon, and coupon for over 8 souvenir shops in Beitou.
The Taipei Sugar Factory (aka Wanhua Sugar Factory Park, Tangbu Cultural Park 糖廍文化園區 or Taisugar Taipei Warehouse 臺糖臺北倉庫) is a historical sugar refining Factory in Wanhua District of Taipei City. It was the only sugar refinery built north of Taoyuan during the Japanese rule. Now it has been converted into a museum and cultural center with DIY activities for kids and is a popular attraction in the area.
Background: In 1901, during the Japanese era, the first sugar factory in Taiwan was built in Qiaotou. At its height, it was producing 18,000 tons of sugar per year. Established in 1911, the Taipei Sugar Factory was the only sugar refinery built north of Taoyuan during the Japanese rule. However, due to the Pacific War and the subsequent shortage of sugarcane and labor, the refinery was shut down in 1943. After the fall of sugar production in the late 1900s, due to the reduction of available land and the growing cost of producing sugar in Taiwan, many sugar factories began to shut down. The factory and its equipment were gradually dismantled, leaving only the warehouses, which were later used by the Taiwan Sugar Corporation. In 2003, the Taipei City Government designated three remaining warehouses and an old platform from the refinery as municipal historic sites. In 2011, the area was renamed the Tangbu Cultural Park. Since 2000, in November each year, the Tangbu Cultural Park has hosted the annual "Bangka Sugarcane Festival 艋舺甘蔗季," which includes performances, sugarcane-cutting competitions, and various cultural activities celebrating the area's sugar industry heritage. Due to its convenient transportation from both the MRT and TRA, the Sugar Museum has become a popular attraction. Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM Please note that the museum is closed at noon from 12:30 to 1:30 and then last admission is at 4:30 PM. Closed Mondays Price: Free When to go: Anytime, it never gets really crowded here. Where to stay: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Nangang Marriott (book on Booking.com here or Agoda here). We have also stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here or Agoda here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By Car/Scooter: The Museum is down the street from Wanhua TRB Station. There is limited parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bus/MRT: The museum is within walking distance of Longshan Temple MRT Station on the Blue Line or Wanhua TRB Station. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map: Please see below:
Taipei Martyrs' Shrine (also known as the National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine 國民革命忠烈祠, Yuanshan Martyrs' Shrine 圓山忠烈祠, or Dazhi Martyrs' Shrine 大直忠烈祠) in Zhongshan District of Taipei City is dedicated to honoring fallen heroes of the Republic of China. Traditionally known for honoring fallen ROC soldiers who fought against the Japanese and Communists in China, but lately, other citizen heroes have been added to the shrine. Located near the Yuanshan Hotel and Dazhi MRT, it is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Taipei.
This shrine is not to be confused with Nangang Martyrs' Shrine, which is also known as the Taipei Martyrs' Shrine. Background: Before the Martyrs' Shrine was established, it was formerly a Japanese Shinto Shrine called Taiwan Gokoku Shrine, which enshrined Taiwanese soldiers who died in battle and were honored at Japan's Yasukuni Shrine. Taiwan was once home to hundreds of Shinto Shrines during the Japanese era. After the ROC took control of Taiwan, many of these shrines were either destroyed or converted into Martyr's Shrines. After the ROC took Taiwan, President Chiang Kai-shek deemed the original Taiwan Gokoku Shrine too simple and lacking in dignity for honoring the martyrs of the ROC. He ordered its reconstruction led by General He Yingqin, a senior commander of the ROC Army. The architectural style is modeled after the Hall of Supreme Harmony in Beijing’s Forbidden City. The Taipei City Martyrs' Shrine was established in 1969 under President Chiang Jing-kuo, the son of Chiang Kai-shek, who is also buried here. For more information on the history of this shrine, you can check out Josh Ellis' Blog here. The shrine honors over 400,000 soldiers and civilians who sacrificed their lives during various periods, including the founding of the Republic, the campaigns against Yuan Shikai, the Constitutional Protection Movement, the Eastern Expeditions, the Northern Expedition, anti-Communist operations, anti-Japanese efforts, and the isolated troops in Thailand and Myanmar. Besides the bodies of soldiers killed in action here, there is also the grave of Lin Qingjuan (林靖娟) who was also considered a martyr and honored here for losing her life trying to save preschool children from a terrible incident in which a preschool bus caught on fire. You can listen to that story on Formosa Files here. In addition, 7 doctors and nurses who died in Heping Hospital during the SARS epidemic in 2003 are also honored as martyrs here. As per Article 8 of the "Martyrs' Shrine Sacrifice Regulations," issued by the Executive Yuan in 1969 and revised in 1999, a martyrs' shrine is required to be established in the capital city of the central government. March 29 and September 3 are marked for ceremonies of all martyrs' shrines in Taiwan, with the president leading the national ceremonies at the capital shrine. The area is very popular, especially on weekends and holidays, and the site attracts many foreign tourists. Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM every day Price: Free Tours: You can book a tour shrine and nearby sights on Klook here, or KKday here. How to get there: By Car/Scooter: The Shrine is a big square building in Taipei near Shilin and Neihu on the Keelung River. There is not a lot of parking nearby and you may have to walk quite a distance from the nearest parking lot. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bus/MRT: The shrine is about a 20 minute walk from Dazhi MRT Station. From the MRT Station, you can also take bus 902 or another bus that will get you there in about ten minutes. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map: Please see below:
The Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei (aka Moca Taipei) is a former Japanese colonial school building and also served as Taipei City Hall before it was converted into a modern art and exhibition space in Datong District Taipei. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Taipei.
Historical Background: The building where the Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei is currently housed was originally built in 1921 by the Japanese Jian Cheng Elementary School (Kensei Shogakko). The building was made using red brick western style architecture with classical and baroque elements. In 1945 when the KMT took over rule of Taiwan, it was converted into Taipei City Hall and was used for that purpose until 1994. After that, the building and Jian Cheng Junior High School which sits behind it were both renovated. The museum opened to the public in 2001. Since then, the museum has hosted numerous international exhibitions from artists around the world. The museum is popular on weekends, especially for elementary students who have free admission. Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM. Ticket Price: 100 NT per person. You can book discount tickets on KKday here. Museum Website: https://www.moca.taipei/en/ Tours: You can book discount bundle tickets to multiple museums in Taipei on KKday here or Klook here. Hotels in Taipei: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: The closest MRT station is Zhongshan Station and is about a five minute walk. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: Driving or taking a scooter there can be hard because there is limited paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map: See below:
Shilin Official Residence (aka Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence 士林官邸 英文介紹) is a historic mansion surrounded by a beautiful park and other historical buildings. The building was the residence of Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Meiling and housed many prominent guests. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Taipei.
Background: The Shilin Official Residence was built in 1950 by the ROC for the president Chiang Kai-shek, as a two-story western style home. Before the ROC took Taiwan, the grounds where the residence was built was a Japanese Horticulture Experimental Station. While in use, the grounds were highly militarized and closed off to the public. After Chiang Kai-shek's death in 1976, Soong Meiling continued to use the residence until her last visit in 1991. In 1996, the grounds were opened to the public as a park and a museum. The grounds include the Chiang's old Cadillac limousine, the Victory Chapel which was the Chiang's personal chapel, and Xinlan Pavilion, among other structures. The park is now popular with the public, especially on weekends. Hours: 11 AM to 5 PM and closed Mondays Price: 100 NT per person Free entrance to the park and other buildings. Cherry Blossom Season: Cherry blossoms can be seen in the park from February to late March. Check our our full guide to Cherry Blossom Season in Taiwan here. Tours: You can book tickets to the Taipei Shilin Residence for a discount on Klook here or KKday here. Where to Stay: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT: The closest MRT station is Shilin Station, and is about a five minute walk. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Car/Scooter: Take Provincial Highway 2 north to Shilin and continue right toward the National Palace Museum. There is plenty of paid parking near the park. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map: See below:
Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is a former tobacco plant in Taipei that has now been converted into a park, exhibition space, museum, and more. In this multifunctional park, you can enjoy the history of the old tobacco plant buildings, as well as ongoing exhibitions, art shows, restaurants, bookstores, and cafés. It is a great tourist stop in the heart of Taipei for both geeks and hipsters.
History The buildings where the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park currently lies were constructed in 1937 as the Matsuyama Tobacco Plant of the Monopoly Bureau of the Taiwan Governor's Office during the Japanese rule of Taiwan. After WWII, the ROC government took control of the plant and renamed it the Songshan Tobacco Plant of the Taiwan Tobacco and Wine Bureau. Due to declining demand for tobacco in Taiwan, the factory stopped producing cigarettes in 1998, and the area was converted into a park in 2001. In 2011, the old buildings here were renovated to accommodate exhibitions and performances on the site. The area includes old warehouses, inspection rooms, office buildings, a tobacco factory, an ecology pond, and more. In 2024 Eslite began 24-hour operations of their bookstore here. The park is usually busy especially on weekends, due to many ongoing art exhibitions. Hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day Price: Free to visit Hotels in Taipei: We have stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). We have stayed at and also recommend Fu Chang Hotel in Ximending, which is within walking distance of Ximending shopping district (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. How to get there: By MRT/Bus: The building is close to Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall MRT station. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. By Car/Scooter: The building is just a few blocks west of Taipei City Hall Station on Zhongxiao East Road. There is limited parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. Map: Please see below:
The Taipei Museum of Drinking Water is both a children's water park and a museum of tap water engineering dating back to the Japanese Era. It is definitely worth a visit on your next trip to Taipei.
Background: The Water Treatment Facility at the Drinking Water Museum was built in 1908 during the Japanese era to provide drinking water to local residents. The main reason it was built is because so many Japanese soldiers died from disease during the occupation of Taiwan (4,600 disease deaths compared to 164 deaths from war). Waterworks were created to draw water from the Xindian River, purify it, and store it. In addition, infrastructure was built to pump drinking water to the city. Later, the rest of Taiwan's cities also had their drinking water systems modernized. In 1952 and 1974 under the ROC capacity was expanded. In 1977, the old water drawing station was decommissioned. The area was later renovated in 1997 and opened to the public as a museum in 2000. The area is a popular destination, especially in the summer when many parents bring children to play in the splash pool and water slides. Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9 AM to 5 PM every day. Swimming pool: July - August only Price: Summertime (July - August): 80 NT Non-summer time: 50 NT Kids 12 and under: Free You can buy discounted tickets to the tap water museum and water park on Klook here. Hotels in Taipei: High end: We have stayed at and recommend the Taipei Marriot (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, Agoda here, or Hotels.com here). We have also stayed at and recommend the Yuanshan Grand Hotel, once the tallest building in Taiwan and still the most grand (book on Booking.com here, Tripadvisor here, or Agoda here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Activities in Taipei: You can look for more activities in Taipei such as Rock Climbing, Surfing, Speedboat Surfing, Diving, Snorkeling, Cooking Class, Glamping, Motorcycling, and more on Klook here or KKday here. How to get there: By Car/Scooter: From Roosevelt Road, turn left onto Siyuan Street until you reach the museum. There is paid parking nearby. Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bus/MRT: Take the MRT to Gongguan Station. The museum is about a ten minute walk. You can purchase a discount easy card to use on the MRT from Klook here or KKday here. You can also book an MRT travel pass on Klook here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map: Please see below:
Erlun Story House (formerly Erlun Police Station) was the first police station built in Yunlin County in 1899. It acted as both a police station and a dormitory for police officers. Now it has been renovated and converted into a communal space to tell the stories of Yunlin's history. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Yunlin.
Historical Background: Before Han Chinese settlement, Erlun was inhabited by native peoples. During the Kingdom of Tungning after Koxinga's conquest of Taiwan from the Dutch, the first Chinese farmers began to settle here due to the fertile land and mild climate. At the time it was situated in the middle of two other settlements: Lukang and Beigang. After the Japanese took control of Taiwan in 1895, Erlun Police Station was built in 1899 as the first police station in Yunlin and was officially called Douliu District Erlun Police Substation. The Erlun Police Station's jurisdiction included Erlun, Huilaicuo, Tianwei, and Sankuai Village. In 1926, it was rebuilt on the original site into its current form. The main office was made of brick and the left and right sides were wooden dormitories, making an "i" shape. After World War II, the original Erlun Police Station continued to be used as a police station until a new Erlun Branch Office was built right next door. It was recognized as a historical building in 2005. In 2014 it was renovated at a cost of roughly 8 million NTD and renamed the Erlun Story House. The building is now used for cultural promotion and performances. Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM, closed Mondays and Tuesdays Saturday hours: 1 PM to 9 PM Price: Free Where to stay: We have stayed at and recommend Ai Ni Ya Hotel, with great quality and service right in downtown Beigang (book on Agoda here or Booking.com here). We also recommend the Grand Earl Hotel, a high class hotel in central Douliu (book on Agoda here or Booking.com here) Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Agoda here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation on the islands. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Tours in Yunlin: Tours and activities in Yunlin include Janfusun Fancy World Amusement Park, Kite Surfing, Tree Climbing , Chaoyang Green Energy Farm, Sam Siu Garden, Pink Castle Park, Gukeng Green Tunnel, Caoling Highway, and more. You can find more tours of Yunlin on Klook here or KKday here. Just to let you know, if you book using the links above, we get some commission at no cost to you, and you can help support our blog. You can click here to receive $5 USD on your first Klook purchase. How to get there: By Scooter: From Provincial Highway 1, go south to the Xiluo Great Bridge until you reach Xiluo Town. Then continue along Highway 154 until you reach Erlun. The police station is in the center of town. There is free parking on the side of the road. Looking for scooter rental in Yunlin? Check out Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here. By Car: From National Freeway 1, get off at the Xiluo Exit and keep going until you reach Xiluo Town. Then continue along Highway 154 until you reach Erlun. The police station is in the center of town. There is limited free parking on the side of the road. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here. By Bus/Train: From Yunlin HSR Station, you can take bus 7718 for about 20 minutes to Erlun Village. The Erlun Story House is near Erlun Station. You can also book tickets to travel to Yunlin via inter-city bus on Klook here. You can book tickets to Yunlin via high speed rail (HSR) on Klook here or KKDay here. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can search on KKday here and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. Map: Please see below:
Taoyuan Shinto Shrine (also known as the Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine, or Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine and Cultural Park 桃園忠烈暨神社文化園區) is a former Japanese Shinto Shrine that has recently been renovated and refurbished in Taoyuan. It is said to be the best-kept Shinto Shrine outside of Japan. It is like getting a taste of Japan without having to leave the country.
Brief Historical Background: The Taoyuan Shinto Shrine was built on Hutou Mountain in 1938 during the Japanese era in Taiwan. The purpose of the shrine was to help promote the Shinto Religion within the Japanese Empire. The Shrine is mainly made from unpainted and unvarnished cypress and cedar wood. The shrine is comprised of three main sections: the main stairway at the base of the hill leads to the first section with green areas, stone lanterns, and a Torii gate. The second section includes the main entrance and surrounding walls. The third section includes the main worship hall which was used for Shinto worship but is now used to remember ROC military veterans. Taiwan was once home to hundreds of Shinto Shrines during the Japanese era. After the ROC took control of Taiwan, many of these shrines were either destroyed or converted into Martyr's Shrines, so it is rare for a Shinto Shrine such as this one to still stand so complete and undefiled. After the ROC took control of Taiwan, it was renamed the Taoyuan Martyr's Shrine in 1950. In the 1907's after the ROC and Japan broke off official relations, plans were made to remove monuments of Japan's past colonial rule. Like many other former Shinto Shrines in Taiwan, plans were made for the Taoyuan Martyr's Shrine to be converted into a modern Chinese-style building. However, many local prominent figures advocated for the preservation of the historical wood building, and eventually, the Taoyuan City Government agreed. In 1986, a restoration project began which was completed in 1987. Further improvements were made in 1995. The area is very popular, especially on weekends and holidays. Most of the visitors are local Taiwanese, but the site also attracts many Japanese tourists. For an in-depth look at the history of the site, check out this blog by Josh Ellis. I highly recommend checking out his two-part blog on the shrine before you try to write a blog or give a tour of the area so you don't sound like a doofus. Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9 AM to 6 PM Price: Free Where to stay: Looking for a hotel in Taoyuan? We recommend the Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport which has great service and is conveniently located right next to Taoyuan Airport, the MRT, and HSR station (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here). We also recommend the Fullon Hotel Taoyuan which also has great service and is located in downtown Taoyuan City (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here). Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan. Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here. Activities in Taoyuan: Ice Skating, Rock Climbing, Mountain Climbing, Cycling, High Ropes, Ziplining, Archery, Vietnamese BBQ, Batting Cages, Glamping, Van Camping, Photo Shoot, Turkish Mosaic DIY, Thai Massage, Painting, Baking, Go Karting, Imax Theater, Japanese Style Buffet, Tourist Factory Experience, peach and fruit picking, Ring-making DIY, handmade popsicle DIY, and more on on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here. How to get there: By Car: From central Taoyuan City, take Chenggong Road north up toward Hutou Mountain. The Shinto Shrine is on the side of the road before it goes up the mountain. There is a small paid parking lot next to the temple. If the parking lot is full, there is parking on the side of the road on Chenggong Road or at the hospital nearby. If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. By Scooter: From central Taoyuan City, take Chenggong Road north up toward Hutou Mountain. The Shinto Shrine is on the side of the road before it goes up the mountain. There is a small paid parking lot next to the temple. If the parking lot is full, there is parking on the side of the road on Chenggong Road. Looking for scooter rental in Taoyuan? Search Klook here or KKday here to look for options. By Bus: From Taoyuan TRA Station, you can take bus 213 to Taoyuan Martyrs' Shrine bus station. You can book tickets to travel to Taoyuan via inter-city bus on Klook here. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here. By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a cycling tour on TripAdvisor here. For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here. Map: Check out the map below: |
Author 作家I am an American expat who has extensive experience living, working, and traveling in Taiwan. In my day, I had to learn many things about Taiwan the hard way. But I have come to learn that Taiwan is one of the best places in the world for Foreigners to live. This blog does not represent the opinions of every foreigner in Taiwan. I am just trying to help others learn more about this beautiful country. Categories
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□ Planning your trip to Taiwan? □
Here are some top travel tips for you:
- Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn when it is not too hot or cold and less rainy
- How to get there: Plane tickets via Trip.com
- Best places to stay can be found on Agoda
- Book tours and activities in Taiwan on Klook
- Stay connected with a local SIM
- Rent a car to explore distant sights