Things To Do
in Gongguan

Deep-fried fermented tofu served with pickled cabbage and chili — a night-market staple you can find at the Gongguan Night Market stalls.

Must-Try!

Large, crispy, seasoned chicken cutlets served hot — popular at the night market and perfect for walking and eating.

Taiwan’s signature drink—chewy tapioca pearls in milk tea. Many shops near NTU offer varied flavors and customization.

Flaky savory pancakes or egg crepes for breakfast or a snack; commonly available at morning stalls around campus.

Centered around the MRT exit and the lanes near NTU, this compact night market is best for student-priced snacks: stinky tofu, oyster omelette, grilled squid, and bubble tea.

A cluster of small eateries and stalls catering to NTU students—cheap bento boxes, noodle soups, Taiwanese breakfasts and dessert shops.

A simple '你好 (nǐ hǎo)' and a smile go a long way. Use polite language and bowing isn’t required but a slight nod shows respect.

Queueing is expected in shops and at MRT entrances — don’t push. Keep noise moderate on public transport and avoid eating on the MRT.

Many homes ask guests to remove shoes; follow the host’s lead and wear clean socks or bring slippers when invited in.

Show deference to older people in conversation and give them seating priority on public transport when needed.

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan and service charges are rare at small eateries; round up or leave small change for exceptional service, but it’s not expected.

Cash (NT$) is widely used for night-market stalls and small shops, while credit/debit cards are accepted at most restaurants and stores. Use contactless payments like EasyCard for MRT, buses and many convenience stores; mobile payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are increasingly accepted.

Mild temperatures (15–22°C / 59–72°F) and occasional rain; cherry blossoms and campus greenery make it pleasant for walking and outdoor cafés, but bring a light rain jacket.

Hot and humid (25–35°C / 77–95°F) with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the occasional typhoon; plan indoor alternatives during heavy rain and stay hydrated.

Comfortable and less humid (20–28°C / 68–82°F), often the best time for outdoor activities, riverside cycling and clear skyline views.

Cooler and sometimes damp (10–18°C / 50–64°F) — rarely freezing but bring a warm layer and umbrella; some hiking trails can be misty.

A short MRT ride away; an accessible, steep trail with platforms offering one of the best views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline — popular at sunset.

Reachable via the Maokong Gondola (near Taipei Zoo); pleasant tea terraces and gentle trails with scenic views and tea houses.

A bit further north by bus or car, Yangmingshan offers volcanic landscapes, hot springs and a variety of hiking trails suited for half-day to full-day trips.

A group of smaller urban hikes around Taipei with short climbs and city views—good for quick morning exercise and scenic overlooks.

The main international gateway, about 40–60 minutes by taxi or 45–70 minutes by public transport (Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station then MRT). Expect immigration and transport queues during peak hours.

Closer domestic and some regional flights; around 20–35 minutes by car from Gongguan and accessible by metro transfers. Convenient for short regional hops to Japan, Korea and Hong Kong (limited routes).

A large population of NTU students and younger residents who shape the neighborhood’s cafés, bars and affordable eateries.

Recent graduates and young workers who enjoy the area’s cafés, co-working spaces and casual nightlife.

Long-term residents and families who use nearby parks and shops; elders often participate in morning exercises in parks.

Visitors exploring Taipei’s local food scene and using Gongguan as a base to reach nearby attractions like Maokong and Xiangshan.

Vegetarian options are abundant: many stalls and restaurants offer vegetable dishes, tofu-based meals and dedicated vegetarian eateries due to Taiwan’s Buddhist food culture. Look for '素' on menus and ask staff '你們有素食嗎?' (Do you have vegetarian options?).

Vegan options are available at some cafés and vegetarian restaurants, but dairy is common in popular items like bubble milk tea — ask for plant-based milk where offered.

Gluten-free can be more difficult at night markets: many snacks use wheat-based batters or soy sauce. Clear communication and choosing simple rice-based dishes (e.g., rice bowls) reduces risk.

Carry ingredient cards in Chinese, especially for shellfish, peanuts, or sesame, and confirm cooking methods with vendors to avoid cross-contamination.