Things To Do
in Banqiao

Banqiao is a vibrant district in New Taipei City, Taiwan, known for its mix of modern urban living and traditional Taiwanese culture. It serves as a transportation hub, making it an ideal base for exploring the greater Taipei area. The district is rich in history, featuring historical sites such as the Banqiao Old Street and temples.

With a variety of shopping options, dining experiences, and cultural events, Banqiao attracts both locals and tourists alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the Banqiao Old Street, where you can explore local shops and try some traditional snacks.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lin Family Mansion and Garden, a beautiful and historic site that showcases traditional Taiwanese architecture.

evening
:

End your day at the Banqiao Night Market, where you can enjoy a variety of street food and local delicacies.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a stroll in the New Taipei City Plaza, enjoying the green space and fountains.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Bitan Scenic Area for some outdoor activities like paddle boating or cycling.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Taiwanese cuisine, followed by a walk along the riverbank.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Beef Noodle Soup$3
🥡Street Food Snack$1
Coffee at a Cafe$2
🍺Beer at a Bar$4
🛍️Souvenir from a Market$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich in cultural and historical sites.
  • Vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine.
  • Excellent public transportation options for exploring the region.
  • High humidity during summer can be uncomfortable.
  • Traffic congestion can be a challenge.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "謝謝" - Thank you
  • "請問洗手間在哪裡?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "可以幫我嗎?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Banqiao

Visit one of these nice places.

Banqiao Old Street

A picturesque street lined with historic buildings and traditional shops, perfect for capturing the essence of local culture.

Lin Family Mansion and Garden

An elegant garden with traditional architecture, offering stunning views and peaceful surroundings.

New Taipei City Plaza

A modern public space with beautiful fountains and sculptures, ideal for vibrant urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Banqiao

Banqiao offers a rich culinary landscape that reflects the diverse flavors of Taiwanese cuisine. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, there’s something for everyone to savor.

Banqiao Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beef Noodle Soup

A hearty bowl of noodles served with tender beef, flavorful broth, and fresh vegetables.

Must-Try!

Braised Pork Rice

Stewed pork served over a bed of fragrant rice, often accompanied by pickled vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Banqiao Night Market

A bustling night market filled with a variety of food stalls offering everything from stinky tofu to bubble tea.

Jinshan Street Food Market

A vibrant market where you can sample local snacks and sweets, perfect for a casual evening outing.

Climate Guide

Weather

Banqiao has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F). The region experiences a significant amount of rainfall, especially during the monsoon season from May to September. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them the most favorable seasons for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Elders are highly respected in Taiwanese culture, so it's customary to offer them your seat on public transport.

Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance while conversing; Taiwanese people value personal space.

Gift Giving

It's common to bring a small gift when visiting someone’s home, such as fruit or pastries.

Safety Guide

Safety

Banqiao is generally considered a safe area for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid flashing valuables. Traffic can be hectic, so pedestrian caution is essential. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119 for police or fire, and 110 for medical emergencies.

Tipping in Banqiao

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated but not expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in restaurants and shops. Mobile payments are growing in popularity.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, perfect for enjoying cold treats and evening night markets.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies provide excellent conditions for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Temperatures drop, and while it's cooler, the festive atmosphere and hot food make it a cozy time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Banqiao at Night

Banqiao boasts a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, nightclubs, and night markets. The Banqiao Night Market is a must-visit, offering a plethora of street food options and local delicacies. For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, there are cozy pubs and cafes where you can enjoy drinks and live music. The area is safe and well-lit, making it ideal for late-night explorations.

Hiking in Banqiao

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Guanyin Mountain Trail

A scenic hiking trail known for its panoramic views of Taipei and the surrounding areas, suitable for various skill levels.

Shenkeng Old Street to Pingxi

This trail offers a mix of cultural exploration and nature, taking hikers through picturesque landscapes and quaint villages.

Airports

How to reach Banqiao by plane.

Taipei Songshan Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Banqiao, this airport primarily serves domestic flights and some regional international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Banqiao is a walkable area with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets. The central district is compact, making it easy to navigate on foot. Public parks and markets are accessible, enhancing the walking experience. However, some areas may have heavy traffic, so caution is advised while crossing streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A significant demographic in Banqiao, young professionals are drawn to the area due to its job opportunities and vibrant lifestyle.

Families

Many families reside in Banqiao, attracted by the educational facilities, parks, and community amenities available.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is one of Taiwan's most popular sports, with many local teams and a strong following among fans.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played in Banqiao, with many clubs and facilities available for both recreational and competitive players.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Banqiao can be heavy, especially during rush hours. However, the public transportation system is efficient, with access to the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and buses making it easy to get around. Biking and walking are also viable options for navigating shorter distances. Ride-sharing services are popular and readily available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Banqiao.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's wise to ask about ingredients, as some dishes may contain fish sauce.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; it's essential to communicate dietary needs clearly when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Taiwan has an excellent healthcare system, with numerous hospitals and clinics available in Banqiao. Emergency services are prompt, and many healthcare providers speak English. The National Health Insurance system ensures that residents and visitors have access to affordable medical care. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health services while visiting.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2025 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide