There are many things Taiwan is famous for, from its popular big cities and amazing hospitality to great food. However, have you ever heard of Taoyuan? It may not be as popular as other Taiwanese cities, but it will still give you plenty of unforgettable moments. What to do in Taoyuan, you ask? Visit the historic wonders of Daxi Old Street and explore the lush surroundings of Xiao Wulai Scenic Area. Taoyuan is where you can truly appreciate northern Taiwan. If you’re worried about where to stay in Taoyuan, then you’ll be glad to know that there are numerous accommodations in great neighborhoods that await you, including some great Airbnb vacation rentals. These are the top things to do in Taoyuan, Taiwan. Discover this industrial city and let the epic journey begin!
1. Craftsman Story House, Daxi Wood Art Ecomuseum
One of the unique places you should see in Taoyuan is Daxi Wood Art Ecomuseum. Aiming to preserve cultural assets and the local community, the ecomuseum complex is home to Craftsman Story House which was built in 1941. The Japanese-style historic building served as a dormitory of Daxi police, then home for politician Chiang Kai-shek’s workers, and was ultimately renovated to become a part of the museum, displaying the carpentry developments during the Qing Dynasty.
The other parts of the complex include Native History Hall and Martial Arts Dojo Daxi.
Craftsman Story House, Daxi Wood Art Ecomuseum
Address: No. 52號, Puji Rd, Daxi District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 335
Website: Craftsman Story House, Daxi Wood Art Ecomuseum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
2. Jurassic Museum
Nope, you won’t be seeing dinosaurs here. Although what’s waiting for you is equally cool and exciting! Jurassic Museum in Taoyuan is a gold mine of gems. You’ll get to learn about gems and ancient fossils on display, and for a minimal fee!
You can participate in activities such as stone grinding and polishing and transforming it into a gem, while the little ones can clean fossils. At the end of your visit, you can drop by the gift shop to get yourself something shiny and special!
Jurassic Museum
Address: 33858, Taiwan, Taoyuan City, Luzhu District, Section 1, Xinnan Rd, 125號B1
Website: Jurassic Museum
Opening hours: 10:30am - 7:30pm (daily)
3. Carmine Gallery
If you’re a fan of the arts, don’t forget to include Carmine Gallery in your itinerary. The gallery rallies for and introduces Chinese artists to the international art scene and practices the coexistence of contemporary life and art culture. Established over 20 years ago, Carmen Gallery aids older-generation Chinese painters through research and analysis of the market, making sure that each and every exhibit is worthy of being viewed by the rest of the world. Come visit the gallery soon!
Carmine Gallery
Address: No. 201, Section 2, Chenggong Rd, Taoyuan District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 330
Website: Carmine Gallery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 7pm (closed on Sun)
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4. Daxi Old Street
Formed during the Japanese colonial period, Daxi Old Street in Heping Road is your chance to revisit the past. It’s where you will see several Baroque-style shops, all of which are decorated with impressive carvings. You can visit the shops to buy traditional furniture and toys related to renowned folklores. There are also stores offering famous local treats such as tofu pudding and peanut caramel candy. When you reach the Daxi Bridge, prepare to be enthralled by the view of the sunset and the night lights in this top Taoyuan attraction.
Daxi Old Street
Address: Heping Road, Daxi District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 335
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Contact: +886 3 388 2201
5. Shihmen Reservoir
It’s one of the country’s largest reservoirs, and apart from providing water and electricity, it’s also a beloved Taoyuan tourist spot. Shihmen Reservoir will astound you with its lake and mountain views as well as its blooming flowers. Winter is the best time to see the maple leaves and plum blossoms while spring is the season where peaches, cherries, and azaleas shine. If you visit during the rainy season, you will witness the dam release large amounts of water. Don’t forget your camera when you drop by this place.
Shihmen Reservoir
Address: 68, Sec. 1, Huanhu Rd., Daxi Dist., Taoyuan City, Daxi Dist., Taoyuan City
Price: from 3 USD
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Contact: +886-3-471-2000
6. Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park
Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park in Fuxing Road is dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek, the former president of China and a controversial figure in Taiwan. It has over 150 sculptures of Kai-shek, all of which are from government organizations and schools. The most popular is the four-story sculpture in the middle of the garden. Learn more about the politician’s legacy as well as the history of China and Taiwan on your visit here. At the back of the park, there’s a former military zone where you can watch the changing of the guard ceremony at 9:00 AM. Entrance fee to this area is around 3 USD.
Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park
Address: 1097, Sec. 1, Fuxing Rd., Daxi Township, Taoyuan County 335, Taiwan
Price: Free; 3 USD for the military zone
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Contact: +886-3-3884437
7. Jiaobanshan Park
Located in Fuxing District, Jiaobanshan Park is where you can appreciate nature and art. Take a stroll and let the different types of trees fascinate you. The maple trees turn red during autumn while the plum trees become pink around February and March. There are also two huge banyan trees resembling a couple embracing each other. Another highlight of the park is the collection of sculptures from some of the most talented artists from Taiwan, Europe, and America.
Jiaobanshan Park
Address: 2, Zhongzheng Rd, Fuxing District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 336
Price: Free
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Contact: +886-3-394-6061
8. Sanmin Bat Cave
Even though bats are rarely seen here now, it still has a lot to offer to nature lovers. Sanmin Bat Cave in Fushin Town is well-known for its amphitheatre-like interior and odd-looking rocks. The cave can accommodate over a thousand people. Outside, there’s a waterfall where you can relax after the hike. With its cool breeze, it’s an ideal destination for those who want to escape the summer heat.
Sanmin Bat Cave
Address: 336, Taiwan, Taoyuan City, Fuxing District
Price: Free
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Contact: +886-3-382-5052
9. Hutou Mountain Park
This tiger-shaped mountain is considered one of the highest grounds in Taoyuan, and it’s a perfect recreation spot and is one of the best places to visit in Taoyuan. Hutou Mountain Park in Gongyuan Road will enchant you with its natural forest, Chinese-style tree houses, and views of the Taoyuan Terraces. The park is also the location of historic structures such as the Sansheng Temple, which is dedicated to the heroes of the Three Kingdoms. You can go for a stroll or enjoy a picnic with your family or friends. There’s even a playground for the kids. If you visit at night, you will get a magnificent view of the city lights.
Hutou Mountain Park
Address: 42, Gongyuan Rd, Taoyuan District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 330
Price: Free
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Contact: +886 3 394 6061
10. Jhongli Xinming Night Market
This night market in Xinming Road has over 580 stalls, and it’s sure to give you a memorable shopping and dining experience. Head to Jhongli Xinming Night Market and enjoy some of the most delicious Taiwanese dishes such as onion pancakes, spicy tofu, fried squid, and pig trotters. If you’re not hungry, then visit the stores selling imported clothes and electronics. What makes this night market even more awesome is its convenient location. If you’re coming from Jhongli Station, you can reach it by a 10-minute walk.
Jhongli Xinming Night Market
Address: Xinming Road, Zhongli District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 320
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Access: 10-minute walk from Jhongli Station
Contact: +886 3 494 8816
11. Xiao Wulai Scenic Area
More natural wonders are waiting for you at Xiao Wulai Scenic Area in Fuxing Town. Go for a journey on the transparent skywalk and fall in love with the lush scenery and the panoramic view of the three-tiered Xiao Wulai Waterfall. The waterfall is about 50 meters (164 feet) high and is one of the area’s most popular attractions. You will also see the huge 50 ton (110,231 pound) Wind Moving Rock, which remains balanced despite its precarious position.
Xiao Wulai Scenic Area
Address: 42,Yixeng,Fuxing Town,Taoyuan County,Taiwan
Price: from 2 USD
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
12. Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour from Taipei with Pickup (from USD 110.0)
When in Taiwan, have a go on the private road trip by car with the opportunity to see the most scenic attractions around Northern Taiwan. See the unique rock formations at YehLiu Geopark, find hidden nooks and crannies at Jiuden Old Street, and get a stunning photo of the Shifen Waterfall for just 100 USD. Conclude the tour with a lantern activity at Shifen Old Street and see your lantern float up the sky, a great way to end a wonderful day trip to Northern Taiwan.
Private Full-Day Northern Taiwan Tour by Car from Taipei
Website:
Duration: 8 hours
Price: 100 USD
Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour from Taipei with Pickup
Duration 8 hours
13. Window On China Theme Park
Window On China is recognized as the first theme park in Asia to have miniature displays of world-renowned buildings. Bring your family or friends and see the impressive little versions of the architectural wonders of Taiwan, China, Europe, America, and the rest of Asia. From Ming Dynasty structures to the Statue of Liberty, this theme park will certainly give you lots of photo opportunities.
If you want a thrilling experience, then try out the Crazy Rapid ride. It’s where you will sit on a rafting boat and go through several exciting rapid streams. The Tour Train offers a more laid-back journey. You will board a train and take a trip through the picturesque Lungchan Tea Plantation. Other rides include the roller coaster, Euro Riverboat, Wipe Out, Jumping Stars, and the Egyptian-themed Jumbo Wave. There are also shows featuring acrobatics, magic, and mascots, all of which will entertain both kids and adults.
Window On China Theme Park
Address: 891, Gaoyuan Rd, Longtan District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 325
Price: from 26 USD
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Contact: +886 3 471 7211
Website: Window On China Theme Park
Window on World Theme Park Ticket in Taoyuan - Klook
14. Baishajia Lighthouse
This marvelous piece of architecture has been a long-standing piece of Taoyuan history. Originally built by the Japanese, this lighthouse has stood witness to the historic turn of events of the quaint city of Taoyuan. It was damaged during World War II but has since been rebuilt, renovated, and preserved. Originally built in 1902, this centuries-old attraction is definitely a must-visit. Make sure to take some pictures. Whether a selfie, a groupie, or just scenic pics of the attraction, you’re sure to take some of the most Instagram-worthy photos here.
Baishajia Lighthouse
Address: No. 216號, Guangming Road, Guanyin District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 328
Website: Baishajia Lighthouse
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
15. Gloria Outlets
Shop until you drop at Gloria Outlets. Taiwan is known to have some of the most lucrative and popular markets all over Asia. Don’t miss the chance to go shopping while in Taoyuan. Gloria Outlets has some of the best luxury brand items, high-end boutiques, and even interesting shops for trinkets and souvenirs. If you start feeling peckish while shopping, you can also stop by one of the cafes or restaurants inside the shopping center. Do some retail therapy, go shopping alone or with your best buddies, friends, and family. Gloria Outlets is a must-visit when in Taoyuan.
Gloria Outlets
Address: No. 189號, Chunde Rd, Zhongli District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 320
Website: Gloria Outlets
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 10pm
Lovely Taoyuan
Taoyuan is proof that even the lesser-known cities of Taiwan are marvelous. Let the treasures of this northern city leave you in awe. These are only ten places, and there’s definitely more for you to see.