The Ultimate Guide to Northern Taiwan: Must-Visit Attractions in Taipei, New Taipei, and Taoyuan

Northern Taiwan, covering Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Keelung, and Yilan, boasts a rich tapestry of natural landscapes, historical culture, and modern cityscapes. From the bustling Taipei 101 to the serene Jiufen Old Street, and from the magnificent Yehliu Geopark to the stunning Taroko National Park, the region offers a diverse travel experience for every visitor.

# The Ultimate Guide to Northern Taiwan: Must-Visit Attractions in Taipei, New Taipei, and Taoyuan Northern Taiwan encompasses Taipei City, New Taipei City, Taoyuan City, Keelung City, Hsinchu County/City, and Yilan County, offering a rich blend of natural landscapes, historical heritage, and modern city life. From the bustling Taipei 101 to the tranquil Jiufen Old Street (九份老街), and from the spectacular Yehliu Geopark (野柳地質公園) to the magnificent Taroko National Park, the northern region provides a diverse range of experiences for travelers. This guide will detail the must-visit attractions, transportation methods, best travel times, and practical tips for your journey. ## Taipei City: A Perfect Fusion of Modern Metropolis and Traditional Culture As the capital of Taiwan, Taipei City (台北市) is not only a political and economic hub but also a major center for culture and tourism. The city masterfully blends modern skyscrapers with traditional temples and vibrant night markets, creating a unique urban landscape. ### Taipei 101: Taiwan's Iconic Landmark Once the world's tallest building, Taipei 101 (台北101) stands at 508 meters and features one of the world's fastest elevators, whisking you to the 89th-floor observatory in just 37 seconds. The observatory offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire Taipei Basin, and on a clear day, you can even see Taoyuan Airport. The building's design, inspired by a bamboo stalk, symbolizes prosperity and growth. The annual New Year's Eve fireworks display is an internationally acclaimed event, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators. **How to get there:** Take the MRT Bannan Line to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station and walk for about 3 minutes. **Best time to visit:** Late afternoon to enjoy both the sunset and the city's night view. **Ticket information:** Full price NT$600, concession NT$540. ### National Palace Museum: Treasures of Chinese Culture The National Palace Museum (故宮博物院) houses nearly 700,000 pieces of Chinese imperial artifacts, including national treasures like the Jadeite Cabbage, the Meat-shaped Stone, and the Mao Gong Ding. The museum's architecture is in the style of a Chinese palace, and its collection spans calligraphy, ceramics, bronzes, and jades, showcasing 5,000 years of Chinese cultural essence. With regularly rotating exhibits, every visit offers new discoveries, making it an unmissable destination for a deep dive into Chinese culture. **How to get there:** Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line to Shilin Station, then transfer to bus 255, 304, or 815 to the National Palace Museum stop. **Opening hours:** Tuesday to Sunday 09:00-17:00, with extended hours until 21:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. **Ticket information:** Full price NT