Why Taoyuan Should Be on Your Taiwan Itinerary
Taoyuan was the very first stop on our Taiwan adventure, making it the perfect introduction to the country. It also held a special place for us, as Andy lived here eight years ago while teaching English. Returning gave us the chance to catch up with old friends, revisit some of his favourite places, and see how much the city had changed over the years.
While many travellers only pass through Taoyuan on their way to Taipei after landing at Taiwan’s largest international airport, we quickly discovered it’s a destination that’s often overlooked. From bustling night markets and scenic parks to historic streets and fantastic local food, Taoyuan offers an authentic glimpse into Taiwanese life without the crowds found in some of the country’s more famous cities. If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan, don’t rush straight to Taipei—Taoyuan is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Best Things to Do in Taoyuan
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food or modern attractions, Taoyuan has something for every type of traveller. We were pleasantly surprised by just how much there was to see and do, from wandering traditional streets and relaxing by the water to exploring lively night markets and catching up with friends over incredible local food. Here are our favourite things to do in Taoyuan.
Visit Jingfu Temple
Located in the heart of Taoyuan, Jingfu Temple is one of the city’s oldest and most important places of worship. Dating back to the 18th century, the temple is dedicated to Kaizhang Shengwang, a deity revered by many of the area’s early settlers from Fujian, China.
As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by intricate carvings, colourful lanterns, ornate roof decorations and the scent of burning incense, creating a peaceful atmosphere that offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich spiritual traditions. Despite being surrounded by the busy streets of central Taoyuan, the temple provides a quiet escape where both locals and visitors come to pray and pay their respects.
We enjoyed taking our time admiring the incredible craftsmanship and watching locals go about their daily rituals. It’s a relatively quick stop, but one that’s well worth including while exploring Taoyuan’s city centre, especially if you’re interested in Taiwanese culture, history and architecture.
Explore Daxi Old Street
Lined with beautifully preserved Baroque-style buildings dating back to the Japanese colonial era, this historic district is full of charm and offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s past.
As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll find a mix of traditional snack stalls, local craft shops, souvenir stores and family-run businesses that have been here for generations. It’s the perfect place to slow down, browse at your own pace and sample some of Daxi’s famous local specialties, including handmade tofu products and peanut candy.
Beyond the main street, there are plenty of hidden alleyways, historic buildings and small temples waiting to be discovered. We found it easy to spend a few hours simply wandering around, soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying the blend of history and local life. If you’re looking for a destination that feels authentic and full of character, Daxi Old Street is one of the highlights of Taoyuan.
Experience Taoyuan’s Night Markets
No visit to Taoyuan is complete without spending an evening at one of its bustling night markets. Filled with the aromas of freshly cooked street food, colourful stalls and lively crowds, they’re the perfect place to experience Taiwan’s famous night market culture.
During our time in Taoyuan, we visited Zhongli Night Market, one of the city’s most popular markets, where we sampled everything from crispy fried chicken and grilled skewers to bubble tea and Taiwanese desserts. Alongside the food stalls, you’ll also find clothing vendors, arcade games and small shops selling everything from accessories to souvenirs.
Even if you don’t arrive hungry, the lively atmosphere alone makes a visit worthwhile. Night markets are an important part of everyday life in Taiwan, offering a great opportunity to try local dishes, mingle with locals and soak up the city’s vibrant evening atmosphere.
Visit the Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park
One of the more unusual attractions in Taoyuan is the Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park. Set beside a peaceful lake and surrounded by lush greenery, the park is home to hundreds of statues of former Taiwanese president Chiang Kai-shek that have been relocated from public spaces across Taiwan.
Walking through the park, you’ll see statues of all shapes and sizes lined along tree-lined paths, each telling part of Taiwan’s changing history. Whether you’re interested in politics, history or simply enjoy visiting unique places, it’s a fascinating attraction that offers plenty to explore.
The park itself is beautifully maintained, making it a pleasant place for a stroll even if you’re not familiar with the historical background. Combined with the nearby Cihu Mausoleum and surrounding countryside, it’s easy to spend a relaxing few hours exploring this scenic part of Taoyuan.
What to Eat in Taoyuan
One of the highlights of visiting Taoyuan is getting to experience Taiwan’s incredible food scene. From bustling night markets and traditional breakfast spots to cosy cafés and local restaurants, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to try. Whether you’re sampling classic Taiwanese street food or sitting down for a hearty local meal, Taoyuan offers plenty of flavours that shouldn’t be missed. Here are some of the must-try foods during your visit.
Try Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup
If there’s one dish you have to try while visiting Taoyuan, it’s Taiwanese beef noodle soup. Often considered Taiwan’s national dish, it features tender braised beef, chewy noodles and a rich, flavourful broth that’s been slow-cooked with soy sauce, spices and aromatic herbs.
We quickly discovered why it’s such a local favourite. Every restaurant seems to have its own recipe, with some serving a lighter, clear broth while others offer a deep, spicy version packed with bold flavours. No matter which you choose, it’s the perfect comforting meal after a day of exploring.
You’ll find excellent beef noodle soup all across Taoyuan, from small family-run eateries to long-established local restaurants. Pair it with a few side dishes such as braised tofu, pickled vegetables or a tea egg for an authentic Taiwanese dining experience.
Sample Xiao Long Bao
Another must-try dish in Taoyuan is xiao long bao, Taiwan’s famous soup dumplings. These delicate steamed dumplings are filled with seasoned pork and a rich, flavourful broth that bursts out with every bite, making them one of the country’s most iconic dishes.
While xiao long bao can be found throughout Taiwan, Taoyuan has plenty of fantastic local restaurants where you can enjoy them freshly steamed in traditional bamboo baskets. The key is to eat them carefully—take a small bite first to let the hot soup cool before enjoying the rest of the dumpling.
Whether you pair them with black vinegar and fresh ginger or enjoy them on their own, xiao long bao are an essential part of any trip to Taiwan and a meal you’ll likely find yourself craving long after you return home.
How Many Days Do You Need in Taoyuan?
We think 2–3 days is the ideal amount of time to spend in Taoyuan. This gives you enough time to explore the city’s main attractions, wander through Daxi Old Street, visit temples and parks, experience a traditional Taiwanese night market and sample some of the fantastic local food without feeling rushed.
Many travellers only spend a single night in Taoyuan before or after flying into Taiwan, but if your itinerary allows, it’s well worth staying a little longer. We found that having a couple of days gave us the chance to experience a more local side of Taiwan while still leaving plenty of time to continue our journey to destinations such as Taipei, Hsinchu or Sun Moon Lake.
If you’re short on time, you can still see many of Taoyuan’s highlights in one full day. However, staying for two or more nights allows you to explore at a slower pace and discover some of the city’s lesser-known attractions.
Where to Stay in Taoyuan
Taoyuan has accommodation to suit every type of traveller, whether you’re looking for a convenient hotel close to the airport, a modern city-centre stay or a quieter base near some of the area’s top attractions. We chose to stay in central Taoyuan, which made it easy to explore the city on foot, use public transport and enjoy the local restaurants and night markets in the evenings.
For most first-time visitors, Taoyuan District is the best place to stay thanks to its excellent transport links, wide choice of hotels and easy access to attractions such as Jingfu Temple and Taoyuan Night Market. If you’re catching an early flight, staying near Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is a practical option, with many hotels offering airport shuttle services. Alternatively, Zhongli District is another great choice, known for its lively atmosphere, shopping and the popular Zhongli Night Market.
No matter where you choose to stay, Taoyuan provides a convenient base for beginning or ending your Taiwan adventure while offering plenty to see and do in its own right.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Taoyuan
Is Taoyuan worth visiting?
Yes! Although many travellers simply pass through Taoyuan after arriving in Taiwan, the city has plenty to offer. From historic attractions like Daxi Old Street and Jingfu Temple to vibrant night markets, scenic parks and fantastic local food, it’s well worth spending a couple of days exploring.
What is Taoyuan best known for?
Taoyuan is best known for being home to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, the country’s main international gateway. It’s also known for attractions such as Daxi Old Street, Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park, Xpark Aquarium and its lively night markets.
How many days should you spend in Taoyuan?
We recommend spending 2–3 days in Taoyuan. This gives you enough time to visit the city’s main attractions, enjoy the local food scene and experience a more authentic side of Taiwan before continuing your trip.
Is Taoyuan a good base for exploring Taiwan?
Yes. Thanks to its excellent transport links, including the High Speed Rail and Airport MRT, Taoyuan makes a convenient base for exploring destinations such as Taipei, Hsinchu and other parts of northern Taiwan.
What is the best time to visit Taoyuan?
The best times to visit Taoyuan are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is generally lower. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is mild, making Taoyuan a year-round destination.
Can you visit Taoyuan without a car?
Absolutely. Taoyuan has a reliable public transport network, including buses, trains and the Airport MRT, making it easy to reach many of the city’s main attractions. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also widely available for places that are less accessible by public transport.
