Written/Compiled and Reported by MOOK Travel Life Network, Chen Guanxin
Bid farewell to the Year of the Dragon and charge ahead into the Year of the Horse with a uniquely “horse-themed” itinerary. The Taipei City Government’s Department of Information and Tourism has specially recommended a fun-filled one-day tour that’s perfect for both adults and children, inviting everyone to kick off the first month of the new year by heading to Taipei City Zoo in the morning to greet the Year of the Horse alongside Mongolian wild horses and zebras, then visiting Taipei Children's Amusement Park to ride colorful, joyous merry-go-rounds. Enjoy an energetic lunch brimming with vigor, head to a suburban horse riding club in the afternoon to experience the thrill of galloping, soak in the horse trough hot springs on Yangmingshan in the evening, and then cycle on a YouBike to a restaurant for some freshly baked pizza and piping hot coffee — a fiery way to celebrate the New Year.
The horse trough hot springs, nestled in the valleys on both sides of the horse trough bridge along the Yangjin Highway, though remotely located, always attract well-informed visitors who are willing to travel far to experience them. (Photo provided by Taipei City Government Department of Information and Tourism)
The Department of Information and Tourism noted that the zoo has always been a popular destination for family outings during the New Year. In celebration of the Year of the Horse, visitors can start their day by seeing the Mongolian wild horse foal “Yongchun.” This lively and adorable animal will ignite the vibrant energy of the new spring. She is an adorable female horse born last October and, along with the giant panda cub “Yuan Zai,” is among the most sought-after animal stars by Taipei citizens. Equally loved by both adults and children, riding a musical carousel is also a fittingly festive leisure activity.
The Mongolian wild horse pasture is located outdoors with wide-open views, offering a great chance to see the adorable Mongolian wild horse foal “Yongchun.” (Photo provided by Taipei City Zoo)
After seeing the Mongolian wild horse foal “Yongchun” and riding the musical carousel, you might want to head to a restaurant with “horse” in its name for a delicious meal. Options like steamed soup dumplings, steamed dumplings, and wraps are all great choices. After filling up, even in space-crunched Taipei, you can still enjoy a relaxing horseback riding session. At the horse riding club, receive guidance from national-level instructors, feel the rhythm of hooves flying, and breathe in the scent of fresh grass and earth — truly delightful.
Steamed soup dumplings have thin skins and rich fillings. When eating, bite a small hole first, let the broth flow into a spoon, and then sip it — giving you a refreshing feeling as if injecting new year vitality. (Photo provided by Taipei City Government Department of Information and Tourism)
After horseback riding, if you’d like to relax, you can also soak in the ever-flowing horse trough hot springs while enjoying the misty scenery. The horse trough hot springs are located in Yangmingshan, known as the “back garden of the city.” The milky-white waters flow from the mountain cliffs into the baths, with temperatures reaching up to 90 degrees Celsius. As a volcanic hot spring, it helps ward off the spring chill, and the surrounding natural landscape leaves you feeling refreshed and invigorated. After your soak, hop on a YouBike to find a restaurant with “horse” in its name and try unique vegetarian pizzas, pasta, risotto, and more — all excellent options.
Trying vegetarian pasta allows you to appreciate a refreshing and fresh taste through simplicity. (Photo provided by Taipei City Government Department of Information and Tourism)
Recommended Itinerary:
Zoo to see Mongolian wild horses and zebras → Ride a merry-go-round at the Children's Amusement Park → Lunch at a restaurant with “horse” in its name serving dumplings → Horseback riding at the equestrian club → Soak in the mountain hot springs of the horse trough → Cycle on a YouBike to a restaurant with “horse” in its name for vegetarian pizza, pasta, and more
● Extended Reading:
[Friday in Taiwan] Info on 7 Major Lantern Festivals Across Taiwan
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