Things To Do
in Xindian

Hearty bowl of stewed beef and noodles available at local noodle shops; try places along Xindian Old Street or nearby neighborhoods for robust broths.

Must-Try!

Popular Taiwanese breakfast — thin egg crepe and warm or cold soy milk from morning stalls and small breakfast shops in Xindian.

Classic night-market dish found at local stalls; crispy, savory and often served with sweet-spicy sauce.

In eateries near the reservoirs and Wulai you can find dishes featuring seasonal mountain vegetables and fresh local fish prepared simply.

Stretch of shops and stalls selling snacks, sweets, small eats and souvenirs — great for sampling local street food and casual dining.

A short trip away; these markets offer a wider selection of Taiwanese street foods, desserts and carnival-style games.

A simple '你好' (nǐ hǎo) or nod is polite. Address elders with respect and use formal language when appropriate.

Keep voices low on the MRT, give up priority seats to the elderly/pregnant and queue patiently at stations and stops.

Use both hands when offering or receiving items like business cards or gifts; try a dish when offered and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice (associated with funerary rites).

Remove shoes if invited into someone’s home; be respectful at temples—dress modestly, follow signs and avoid loud behavior.

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; service charges are sometimes included at hotels or higher-end restaurants. Small tips are appreciated but not expected — rounding up is fine.

Cash (NTD) is widely used for markets and small vendors. Credit/debit cards are accepted at most restaurants and hotels; contactless mobile payments and the EasyCard transport card are very convenient for MRT, buses and some shops.

Mild temperatures and blossoming trees make it pleasant for hiking and outdoor cafes; occasional rain showers are common — bring a light jacket and umbrella.

Hot, humid and rainy with the plum-rain season (May–June) and typhoon risk (July–September). Plan indoor alternatives for heavy rain days and stay updated on weather advisories.

One of the best times to visit — cooler, clearer skies and comfortable conditions for hiking and sightseeing; ideal for reservoir views and photography.

Mild to cool (rarely freezing) with occasional chilly nights; fewer tourists and good deals, but layers are recommended for early mornings and evenings.

Scenic trails around the reservoir with forested stretches and viewpoints overlooking water; options range from short walks to longer loop hikes.

Easy, flat paths along the river ideal for walking, running and photography — family-friendly and accessible from the MRT.

Short, accessible trail to a dramatic waterfall and scenic viewpoints; pairs well with visits to Wulai’s cultural sites and hot springs.

Steeper hill trails in the southern hills offering panoramic views of the district and Taipei basin — suitable for more experienced hikers seeking a morning workout.

Main international airport serving Taipei region. To reach Xindian: take the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei, then transfer to the Taipei MRT (red/green lines) and local buses or the Xindian MRT line; allow 60–90 minutes depending on connections and traffic.

Smaller domestic and regional airport closer to central Taipei. From Songshan take the MRT to Taipei Main stations then transfer to the Xindian line; faster for domestic/regional arrivals.

Many residents commute into central Taipei for work; the area has a mix of families living in medium-density housing and apartment complexes.

The population reflects Taiwan’s main Han subgroups, including Hokkien (Minnan) and Hakka heritage, which influence language and local traditions.

Wulai and surrounding hills are home to Atayal and other indigenous groups, contributing crafts, food and cultural tourism to the area.

Proximity to Taipei makes Xindian home to students and young workers seeking lower-cost housing with city access.