New TaipeiPlay Recommendations

Wugu Shourang Hall in Wugu District is a century-old red-brick heritage house, now transformed into a free cultural library and family learning center. The preserved historic architecture hosts diverse cultural activities including reading, writing workshops, and Hanfu dress experiences, with a café area for visitors to relax. Ideal for families, students, and culture enthusiasts to explore local history and stories — also a great photo spot.

Houtong Cat Village in Ruifang District was originally a coal mining town, now famous for its large population of friendly cats. The village features a free mining exhibition hall, trendy cafés, and cat cafés where visitors can stroll, watch cats, and learn local history. Open 24 hours with convenient train access via the Yilan Line to Houtong Station, plus free parking. The nearby Houtong Pit Leisure Area offers guided mine tours (09:00–17:30). A peaceful destination for cat lovers and history enthusiasts.

Shifen Old Street in Pingxi District stretches along the railway, famous for sky lantern releasing. Visitors walk between the tracks right in front of the station, experiencing the unique sensation of 'trains passing through your doorstep.' Street vendors offer peanut ice cream rolls, grilled mountain pork, chicken-wing stuffed rice, and other local snacks. Nearby attractions include Jing'an Suspension Bridge connecting to Nanshan Village, and Shifen Waterfall — dubbed 'Taiwan's Niagara' with spectacular flow during rainy season. Whether releasing lanterns under starlight or savoring local flavors, Shifen is a Pingxi Line must-visit.

Nanziling Trail beside Nanya Fishing Harbor in Ruifang District is about 990 meters long with elevation under 200 meters. Starting from the small Nanya community, the path begins with wooden stairs at moderate grade before transitioning to stone steps with some uneven sections. The summit rewards hikers with 360-degree panoramic views of the Yin-Yang Sea, Jinshui Road, Jiufen mountain town, and Keelung Mountain Range — especially stunning at sunrise, sunset, and night from April to September. Best visited in the morning or after 3 PM; most comfortable in spring and autumn. Free parking at the trailhead. The most accessible mountain-and-sea hiking route in Ruifang.

Wanggu Waterfall in Pingxi District is one of the area's most easily accessible forest waterfalls. The trail starts from Wanggu Station — just 5 minutes' walk to the trailhead and another 10 minutes to the waterfall. Crystal-clear water flows year-round, and from April to May visitors can spot fireflies. Dense forest surrounds the path, and trains occasionally pass by, combining natural and railway scenery. Low difficulty makes it perfect for families, photographers, and casual hikers. Free and easily accessible, it's a hidden mountain gem.

Wang Wang Sweet Potato Story House at No. 197-6, Jiatou Road, Wanli District, sits right next to Jinshan Old Street. This sweet potato-themed park combines an industry museum, family play area, and café. Visitors enjoy kiln-roasted sweet potatoes, sweet potato lattes, cakes, and fries, plus a sweet potato classroom, interactive walls, and Shiba Inu-themed decorations. Free year-round admission with seasonal sweet potato digging experiences (July–November). Sandpits, splash pools, and slides add family fun — a perfect rest stop between Jinshan and Wanli for families and dessert lovers.