New TaipeiPlay Recommendations

Tamsui Old Street on Zhongzheng Road in Tamsui District is a historic pedestrian street brimming with atmosphere. Stroll along tasting local specialties like a-gei (fried tofu stuffed with glass noodles), fish crisps, and shaved ice, while enjoying sunset views over the Tamsui River. Adjacent to Fort San Domingo, Customs Wharf, and Fisherman's Wharf, it's easily accessible — just a 3-minute walk from Tamsui MRT station. Free and open year-round, it's a must-visit for walking, photography, and experiencing local culture.

Wulai Old Street in Wulai District combines indigenous Atayal culture with mountain charm. Both sides are lined with local restaurants and snack stalls serving wild mountain vegetables, indigenous cuisine, and specialty ice desserts. Beyond shopping and dining, visitors can ride the nostalgic Wulai mini-train or cable car to Yunxian Amusement Park, Neidong Forest Trail, and Wulai Waterfall, and soak in natural hot springs at free foot baths or private bathhouses. Just 30 minutes by bus from Xindian MRT station, it's ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers on a relaxed day trip.

Yehliu on the North Coast in Wanli District is a natural wonderland of bizarre sea-eroded rock formations. The iconic Queen's Head rock leads a geological classroom of mushroom rocks, candlestick rocks, ginger rocks, and honeycomb formations. The area is free to explore, suitable for day trips by car or public transport, combining scenic views, photography opportunities, and geological learning — an unmissable stop along the northern coastline.

Bitou Cape Trail in Ruifang District is a 3.5km circular coastal path with paved stone slabs and concrete stairs — low difficulty, ideal for families and hiking beginners. Divided into the Coastal Line, Lighthouse Line (temporarily closed due to rockfall), and the most popular Ridge Line, the trail offers magnificent ocean panoramas, ridge views, sea-eroded landforms, and lush vegetation. Rainbow stairs and a café at the Tingtao Camp provide rest stops. Starting from Bitou Elementary School or Bitou Fishing Harbor parking, the loop takes about 1–1.5 hours. No mountain permit needed. A free, well-maintained easy coastal hike in New Taipei City.

Yunsen Waterfall in Sanxia District is a popular summer retreat combining hiking with water play. The trail gently ascends through shaded forest for about 30–40 minutes to reach the waterfall, where visitors can enjoy the gentle cascades and cool mist up close. On holidays, park at the 'Xiongkong Waiting Pavilion' to avoid narrow-road parking issues. Nearby Xiongkong Tea Garden offers terraced field views and seasonal plantings with a restaurant for refreshments. Naturally cool and refreshing, it's ideal for hiking, photography, and family outings — a perfect escape from city heat.

Neidong National Forest Recreation Area in Wulai District sits at 230–800 meters elevation with high forest coverage. Waterfall mist and negative ions keep temperatures cooler than the city, making it a greater Taipei summer retreat. The 1km Waterfall Viewing Trail is flat and stroller/wheelchair accessible; the 1.7km Forest Bath Trail winds through Japanese cedar and broadleaf forest with educational signage. The upper and lower waterfall cascades create a photogenic spot with cooling breezes. Formerly called 'Baby Valley,' this nature haven welcomes couples, families, seniors, and pets.