Prime 10 Underrated TAIPEI Sights

So you’ve been to Taipei before. Yes, everyone and their grandma have heard of or have been to Taipei 101, Shilin Night Market, Ximending, and the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial. But if you think you’ve seen it all, Taipei’s here to say, “Wait, hold my bubble tea.”

Taipei is one city we love to keep visiting again and again because every time we do, we discover something we haven’t seen before. On our most recent trip, we went off the beaten path and dove into Taipei’s quirky underbelly, where graffiti art meets peaceful temples, heart-shaped ponds pop up next to wobbly bridges, and hidden markets are filled with Michelin-worthy bites.

So if you’re ready to unlock a new level of Taipei that’ll make your Instagram followers go, “Wait, where is that?” — buckle up. Here are some of the most underrated attractions in the Taiwanese capital where you won’t be dodging selfie sticks and massive tour groups.

1. Jian Tan Shan Hiking Trail & North Eye Platform

When it comes to hiking for an awesome Taipei view, the go-to destination has always been Elephant Mountain. But this is not the only one!

Taipei is surrounded by mountains, and when you have mountains you have hiking trails and lookouts. The Jian Tan Shan Trail in Shilin, while frequented mostly by locals, is also worthy of a trek. It offers panoramic views of Taipei’s skyline that are breathtaking —- figuratively and sometimes literally.

Tucked in the forested slope just behind the Grand Hotel, the start of the trail is not that easy to find. It is not as crowded, but much of the pathway is paved and staired, so it’s beginner-friendly and you won’t worry about getting lost. OK, scratch that, spoiler alert: We got lost. But only because it’s punctuated with multiple viewpoints, we didn’t know which was which!

You see, our end goal was to reach the so-called North Eye Platform, an observation deck where we could catch peeks of iconic buildings on the other side of the city. But there were a lot of lookouts, we didn’t know if we were following the correct sign. We even stumbled upon a quiet shrine that also allows incredible vistas, so all’s good!

But just before sundown, we were able to find the white railings of the North Eye Platform, and it was worth all the effort and confusion. They say it’s even more stunning at sunset, but sadly the sky was overcast during our visit. The best part? Apart from a couple of locals, we were the only ones there!

On the way down, we also made a stop at some of the other viewpoints to admire the city lights! Yes, Taipei 101 is visible from some of the stops, too, on the other side.

2. Bishanyan Temple

Taipei has no shortage of majestic, ornate temples, but one site has an edge when it comes to its setting –- Bishanyan Temple. Hidden in the peaks of the Neihu District, this not just a place of worship but also a fantastic viewpoint.

Perched on a hillside, Bishanyan Temple offers sweeping views of Taipei, said to be especially magical at sunset. We visited on a rainy, foggy morning, so the sun was absent and the view was thinly shrouded. But we could totally imagine how spectacular the view is from here on regular fair-weather days.

View aside, there’s a lot to adore in this temple. The architecture is rich in detail, with dragon-covered columns and intricate carvings. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of an ancient legend as you wander the grounds. Plus, unlike at most city temples, the ambiance here is serene. Even when tourists are around, there’s a hush to the place that makes it feel sacred and peaceful. Grab a spot, take in the city views, and get in touch with your inner zen.

Not too far away from the temple is Baishihu Suspension Bridge, which swings gently as you cross, giving you just the right amount of thrill. I’m saying that in the second person because it was temporarily closed during our visit.

Nonetheless, we got to drop by the very Instagrammable star here: the heart-shaped pond nearby. It’s a quirky little feature, perfect for couple photos or just a unique selfie spot.

3. Guandu

Beitou is best-known for its hot springs, but there is a lot more to in this corner of northern Taipei. One of the places in Beitou that is often overlooked by tourists is Guandu, known for its rich natural beauty and stunning riverside scenery.

It’s where you’ll find Guandu Nature Park, a sprawling wetland where birdwatchers can spot both native and migratory birds. Inside the visitor center, you’ll find interactive installations that tell the story of the site from being a dump site to the sanctuary that it is today. And on the second floor are giant binoculars to watch the wildlife, especially birds.

But why stay inside when you can experience the outdoors? There is a crab-watching walkway, a crescent-shaped pond, and numerous tree tunnels, with nature-inspired artworks here and there. You can walk along wooden trails and take in the marshy landscapes that are very calming, considering you’re still within Taipei.

But that’s just the start! It’s also home to Guandu Temple, officially known as Ling An Temple. It is a historic gem dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea and protector of sailors and fishermen. One of the oldest in Taiwan, Guandu Temple’s roots can be traced back to 1661. But the most interesting bit? It was carved into the side of a mountain.

Judging from the road by the entrance, we actually thought it was pretty small, but when we entered, we were greeted by a deep, winding cave tunnel, adorned with statues, altars, and stone reliefs, leading to a small shrine. The experience gives a more spiritual, almost otherworldly feel. And once you make it to the other side, you’ll find more structures including a pagoda, several halls, and a manicured garden with unnaturally square-shaped trees. But that’s not the end of it. From here, you’ll also get to enjoy a wonderful view of the area.

If you get hungry, just across the street lies the Guandu Food Park, where you can grab quick snacks.

And beside it is Guandu Wharf, next to Tamsui River, where you can enjoy a boat ride or a bicycle ride. It’s very quiet during the day, but from late afternoon until the evening, it comes to life as food stalls open and locals begin to flock around the area.

4. Taipei EYE Theater

To be honest, I’m not sure if I should include this in this list because it’s not exactly “off-the-beaten-path”. While not as off-the-radar as, say, an obscure temple or a tiny neighborhood market, it’s definitely less crowded and more low-key compared to Taipei’s major tourist hotspots. Many travelers miss it in favor of bigger attractions.

Taipei EYE is the place to be for a taste of traditional opera, acrobatics, and folk dance. It’s a showcase of performing arts, with a twist! Sometimes, literal twist. The show we had the pleasure to see was called Monkey King, based on a Chinese legend. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves here.

Before the show, we tried several free activities available on site, like coloring a traditional mask like a pre-schooler or producing stamp arts like a pro. I spent most of my time finishing a mask, while Vins was very proud of his paper creations. You could also try on elaborate costumes, shop for souvenirs, and watch the actors do their make up for the show.

And when it’s showtime, we sat back, relaxed, and watched the story unfold. And man was it phenomenal! It was a great blend of drama, singing, dancing, and stunts! The actors were all great. Video recording isn’t allowed, but photography without flash is OK so here are some pics.

Don’t worry if your Mandarin is rusty or non-existent; the drama and expressions say it all. Plus, there are subtitles in English, Korean, and Japanese, so you really won’t get lost.

It was so good, I truly believe it deserves more attention.

5. Taipei Cinema Park

Taipei’s map is shaded with countless parks. We’ll be mentioning a few in this article, but this is perhaps the most alive and colorful. This isn’t your average park. Hidden away in the trendy Ximending area, Taipei Cinema Park is a movie-themed complex with open spaces and outdoor installations, where local and international street artists unleash their creativity. At the center of it is this indoor gallery with artworks and photos that narrate the history of the site.

But it’s also a place where art, urban grit, and a splash of weirdness collide. It’s surrounded by graffiti-covered walls that make you feel like you’ve wandered into a rebellious teenager’s sketchbook. The park is an open canvas where local artists show off their talent with vibrant street art.

We first visited it at night, and we stumbled upon this corner that look like it came from an otaku’s fever dream. The Japanese influence here is so strong that I even joked that I might see Mt. Fuji from here. And I kid you not, I did see Mt. Fuji here. It was just a wall painting, but still.

We also spotted Wow Land, a room filled with claw machines and prizes, from kitschy toys to snacks to drinks. Now, you’ll find thousands of claw machines scattered throughout the city, but what sets this place apart is that it isn’t rigged (or not as rigged as the others). If you have the skill, you could actually win something. Vins and I had a field day here. Spent just NT$ 40 (it’s NT$ 10 per game) and went home with chocolates, Milkis drink, and a toy. Not bad, not bad at all. It’s just so nice to not be duped by these machines for a change.

Even if you’re not into claw machines or street art, the park is a haven for people-watching and impromptu photoshoots. It’s a slice of Taipei’s cool, youthful side—unpolished but wildly fascinating.

We visited it again in the daytime, and we actually liked it better at night, so just visit after sundown.

6. Xinzhongshan Park & Chifeng Street

Xinzhongshan Park is a charming linear park running from Zhongshan Station to Shuanglian Station in the Zhongshan District. It’s a bit of a local favorite hidden retreat, especially for those who want a quiet spot to relax away from Taipei’s busier areas. The park has well-maintained walking paths, lush trees, and open spaces where you’ll often find people unwinding, shopping, or just enjoying the peaceful setting. Underneath lies Underground Book Street, perfect for bookworms out there.

One of the most interesting features of Xinzhongshan Park is its proximity to Chifeng Street and its surrounding blocks, a trendy area known for its indie boutiques, local cafes, and creative vibe. But what stole our attention here was the Coach Play – yes, that brand — a stylish fusion of a café and a retail space. The menu has a selection of coffees, teas, and some pastries.

But there are many other cafes here that are worth your buck and time. My favorite spot is R9 Café’s mural featuring various coffee lovers!

Together, Xinzhongshan Park and Chifeng Street offer a mix of nature, culture, and creativity—ideal for anyone wanting to explore a lesser-known side of Taipei!

If you get hungry, walk a bit to Chuan Mu Yuan, a hole-in-the-wall eatery serving Michelin-approved beef pancakes, served like a burrito. It’s one of the best dishes we’ve had in Taipei and was totally worth the stroll.

It was the right mix of sweet and savory, and meaty and starchy. Their red bean pancakes are also something to write home about! We also had fried rice, beef noodles, and xiao long bao, but it is really their pancakes that you should order.

7. Taipei Expo Park & Maji Square

For something quirky and colorful, head to Taipei Expo Park, packed with personality and fun surprises, making it a fun marriage of art, culture, and food. Originally the site for the 2010 Taipei International Flora Expo, the park now serves as a year-round hotspot for festivals, markets, and pop-up events.

One of the highlights is Maji Square, a food court next to the park where food stalls, artisanal shops, and outdoor cafes create a market-like atmosphere. It’s a place to munch on local and international fare (Indian, Italian, Korean!), buy quirky souvenirs, and enjoy live music.

On our most recent trip, this wasn’t part of our original plan. We were supposed to go to an outdoor market but it was raining and we needed a Plan B, and Maji Square has a roof above it, so we came here instead. And good thing we paid it a visit! We really enjoyed this area. But our local companion Nelly said it’s especially fun in the evenings when the lights come on, and the place buzzes with energy. It’s got a festival energy all year round, making it perfect for casual get-togethers.

On the outskirts of the park lies Linji Huguo Temple, a lesser-known cultural treasure in Taipei. It’s a Buddhist temple that isn’t as crowded as Longshan Temple. It is known for its elegant, traditional design. One unique aspect of Linji Huguo is its emphasis on the Linji school of Zen Buddhism, known for its focus on inner peace and wisdom. It’s a perfect spot to get a glimpse of Taipei’s spiritual side.

8. Huashan 1914 Creative Park

Originally built in 1914 as a sake distillery, the Huashan 1914 Creative Park is an industrial complex transformed into a cultural and arts center. It has a raw, industrial look, complete with exposed walls and open-air courtyards.

But it’s not all high-brow art here; Huashan 1914 has plenty of cafes, boutique shops, and design studios scattered around the complex, so it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon exploring. Whether you’re a dedicated art lover, a coffee connoisseur, or just someone looking to escape Taipei’s usual tourist spots, Huashan 1914 Creative Park is a creative playground that has something that’ll make you linger. For us, that something was ice cream and coffee.

I had a yogurt ice cream that tasted really natural and homemade, while Vins is just always happy with his coffee.

9. Dihua Street

One of the oldest streets in Taipei, Dihua Street is more like the cool great-grandma of walking streets in the city. For the longest time, it was the locals’ go-to spot for tea, dried herbs, and textiles, but it has somehow managed to stay relevant across generations. It’s a delightful mashup of history and hipster, with old-school herbalists side-by-side with sleek bookstores and shops. Think apothecaries rubbing shoulders with popular food spots—where else can you pick up some dried ginseng and delicious strawberry mochi and dried squid?

And then there’s the Xiahai City God Temple, where hopeful or hopeless romantics make offerings to the god of matchmaking. Yep, you read that right—this little temple is basically Chinese Cupid’s Taipei office, famous for bringing love to the lovelorn. If you’re feeling lucky (or in desperate need of romance), light a few incense sticks and ask for a little divine intervention in your love life.

Don’t expect a fun, wild party street, unless it’s Lunar New Year. Most of the time, it’s very quiet. It’s more like a memory lane where you can shop, snack, and maybe even meet your soulmate—that is, if the City God’s feeling generous!

10. Uncrowded Night Markets

Taipei is known for its night markets, specifically its three most popular: Shilin, Raohe, and Ningxia. But the city has plenty more that tourists don’t usually go to!

One of them is Gongguan Night Market, situated close to the National Taiwan University, which means (1) most of its regular customers are students, and (2) the prices are affordable! It’s pretty small. Tiny, compared to other night markets, but it still has the mouthwatering aromas wafting from various food stalls and the constant chatter from people enjoying delicious snacks.

In this market, don’t miss Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancake, a Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee. It’s stationed close to the entrance to the market. You won’t miss it because there’s usually a long queue snaking toward it. And of course, we fell in line, too. It moved fast so we were face-to-face with the flat grill in no time. There’s an option to add cheese, ham, bacon, and egg. We ordered one plain and one with all our favorite trimmings, and we weren’t disappointed.

The pancakes were part soft, part crispy, and utterly delicious for its price. No wonder it has garnered a loyal following among locals!

Another spot to consider is Shuangcheng Street Night Market, tucked away in the Daan District. It’s also very short and small, but filled with options from fruits like custard apples to Japanese pancakes to Taiwanese sausages.

Just walk across the nearby park and you’ll reach Huang Chi Lu Rou Fan, another Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, famous for its signature braised pork rice. It’s always packed with customers, most waiting for their takeaway boxes. They serve pocket-friendly but comforting bowl of rice topped with tender, flavorful fatty pork bits that will have you dreaming about it long after you’ve left. Fatty, yes, but it still ate clean.

Shuangcheng Street Night Market is also adjacent Qingguang Market, a shopping arcade lined with food stalls, apparel stores, and other trinkets catering mostly to locals.

Taipei is bursting at the seams with underrated attractions just waiting to be discovered — quirky temples, hidden night markets, and scenic parks. They may not be as popular, but they offer a good look into Taipei’s local scene without the touristy fluff. So even if you’ve been to Taipei before, go ahead and book that flight because in the words of one global boy band, the best is yet to come.

Yes, I know it’s BTS and they’re Korean, but I can’t think of anything from F4 right now. 😅

Where to Stay in Taipei

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