Between the mountains and the coast, there is so much to see and do in the most populous city of the Taiwan Metropolitan area that you’ll never want to leave.
Formerly known as Taipei County, New Taipei City completely surrounds Taipei City, providing the metropolis with a halo of historical and natural attractions. Head out here to discover charming old streets and colorful night markets. Then go to the northernmost tip of the island of Taiwan to see amazing coastal scenery.
The New Taipei City districts of Banqiao, Tucheng, Sanchong, Luzhou, Yonghe, Zhonghe, Xizhi and Xindian are closest to downtown Taipei City, so it’s logical to start your tour of New Taipei there. Visit the modern mega-malls, historic old streets and bustling night markets and bring small change for the delicious street food that is sold everywhere.
It’s easy and cheap to hop on the metro to visit the area’s attractions in the outer districts. Some of New Taipei City’s most popular night markets are held at Lehua, Wenhua North Street, Sanhe, Banqiao Nanya and Xinzhuang Old Street.
For something different to do at night, explore the Bali Left Bank, with its bobbing fishing boats, and the nearby Tamshui (or Danshui) Fisherman’s Wharf with its elegant Lover’s Bridge. While here, don’t miss the charming Tamsui Old Street.
On a rainy day head south to soak in the Wulai Hot Springs by the river and on a hot day, go swimming at Shalun Beach, Baishawan (Baisha Bay) or Fulong Beach.
In the Wanli District, in the northeast of this sprawling city, you can hike through Yehliu Geopark with its highly unusual rock formations and lighthouse. On the other side of Keelung City is the Shimen Cave.
From there, it’s not far to the fertile Riufang District, home to Jishan Street (or Jiufen Old Street). Its colonial Japanese architecture and cuisine inspired the famous Japanese anime movie Spirited Away.
Another popular daytrip in this area is a visit to Shifen Old Street and Pingxi Old Street with its floating lanterns, combined with a visit to “Little Niagara,” the horseshoe-shaped Shifen Waterfall.
New Taipei City is great to escape to after exploring the bustling downtown area of Taipei City. If you are mainly here for the natural attractions along the coast, visit outside of the monsoon season, which runs from October through to March.