Things To Do
in Waiyuanshan
Waiyuanshan is a verdant mountain region in northern Taiwan where emerald slopes meet tea terraces and misty ridges. The area blends outdoor adventures with quaint village life, offering fresh air, scenic viewpoints, and comforting Taiwanese cuisine. Temples, markets, and tea farms line the roads, inviting slow-paced exploration away from the city.
Easily reachable from Taipei by rail or bus, Waiyuanshan makes a convenient nature escape with panoramic rewards.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Waiyuanshan and check into your charming local accommodation. Take some time to refresh and enjoy a hearty Taiwanese breakfast in a nearby café. After breakfast, stroll through the picturesque village, absorbing the serene rural atmosphere.
Explore the nearby lush tea plantations, where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample some delicious locally grown teas. Take a guided tour through the fields, and enjoy the stunning views of the rolling hills. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for the region's rich agricultural heritage.
Savor a traditional Taiwanese dinner at a local restaurant while enjoying the sunset over the hills. The ambiance is serene, perfect for reflecting on the day's adventures. End your evening with a leisurely walk, taking in the tranquil sights and sounds of Waiyuanshan.
Start your day with a visit to a local market, where you can indulge in fresh produce and artisanal products. Engage with friendly vendors and learn about local customs and traditions. Don't forget to try some traditional street food snacks for a truly immersive experience.
Visit the local cultural center to participate in a workshop, perhaps learning some traditional crafts or cooking methods. This hands-on experience will allow deeper insight into the rich cultural heritage of Waiyuanshan. Take the time to appreciate the artistry and hard work that goes into each craft.
Attend a community event or a local festival happening in the area, where you can mingle with residents and celebrate Taiwanese customs. The vibrant atmosphere will be filled with music, dance, and local delicacies. Enjoy a memorable evening filled with laughter and cultural exchange.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧃Bubble tea / soft drink | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee / café drink | $3-6 |
| 🚆One-way public transit | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful mountain scenery and tea country atmosphere
- Accessible from Taipei with a relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Public transport can be less frequent on weekdays outside peak hours
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問最近的地鐵站在哪裡？" - Where is the nearest MRT station?
- "多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "可以便宜一點嗎？" - Could you make it cheaper?
- "洗手間在哪裡？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "我想要這個。" - I would like this.
Places to Visit in Waiyuanshan
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic valley views at dawn or dusk with rolling tea fields and distant city lights on clear days.
Tall, powerful waterfall framed by lush greenery; best captured in the morning light or after rainfall.
Terraced tea fields along winding lanes; capture geometric lines and seasonal harvest hues.
Traditional temple architecture with stone gates and lanterns, especially atmospheric at golden hour.
Food in Waiyuanshan
Waiyuanshan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Taiwanese staple found in many local eateries and night markets; slow-braised pork over fragrant rice with pickled greens.
Must-Try!
Rich, slow-cooked broth with tender beef and chewy noodles; best enjoyed at family-owned noodle shops on or near main streets.
Savory omelette with plump oysters and starch for a slightly crispy texture; popular at night market stalls.
A must-try street snack with a bold aroma; commonly fried and served with spicy sauce at night markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Cluster of stalls offering bite-sized snacks, soups, fresh fruit, and small plates; great for sampling multiple dishes in one outing.
Line of vendors selling fried snacks, bubble tea, dumplings, and seasonal specialties; ideal for an informal dinner or dessert break.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly in sacred spaces, remove hats, and avoid touching altars; refrain from pointing your feet toward statues or sacred objects.
Polite bargaining is common in some markets, but maintain a friendly tone and avoid pressuring vendors.
People generally queue patiently; giving others space on narrow paths and buses is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Waiyuanshan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common expectation in Taiwan; in upscale or international-style venues, a small tip may be appreciated but is not required.
Cash is widely accepted; many restaurants and shops also take credit cards and contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) in urban pockets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, wear breathable clothing, and be prepared for sudden rain.
Milder temperatures and clearer skies; ideal for hiking and photography with golden sunlight on terraces.
Cool to chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings; pack a light jacket and enjoy warm tea houses and hot springs.
Comfortable temperatures with blooming tea bushes and flowers; expect higher pollen and occasional showers.
Waiyuanshan at Night
Hiking in Waiyuanshan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Prominent ridge route offering panoramic views and forest scenery, suitable for day hikes.
Popular waterfall area with multiple viewpoints and short paths; easy to moderate difficulty.
Forest trails around Maokong, combining tea culture with hillside viewpoints and tea houses.
Airports
How to reach Waiyuanshan by plane.
Close to downtown Taipei; convenient for domestic flights and some international routes; easy rail and taxi connections to Waiyuanshan.
Major international gateway located near Taoyuan; frequent high-speed rail and bus connections to Taipei and the surrounding region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families, farmers, and small business owners form the enduring community that preserves local traditions.
Domestic tourists seeking nature escapes and cultural experiences.
Tourists attracted by tea culture, mountain scenery, and temple architecture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed sport across Taiwan; local parks and schools host community games.
Common in gyms and outdoor courts; casual pick-up games are popular in neighborhoods.
The region's trails attract outdoor enthusiasts and weekend hikers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Waiyuanshan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes with tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables; request no pork or broth made with meat; many places offer vegetable or mushroom-based noodle options.