A Lazy Guide to Budget Travel in Northern Taiwan: 7 Free Must-Visit Attractions Here!

▲Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is one of the must-visit spots in Taipei. (Photo / Reporter Zhou Chen'gen)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Traveling doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Budget-conscious travelers need to watch their pennies and stick to a budget. Want to save money? Why not visit free attractions on your trip? The travel search engineSkyscannerrecently put together the “7 Free Popular Attractions in Northern Taiwan.” Whether it’s outdoor spots rich in natural ecology or historic buildings in the city, you’ll find them all here. Why not plan a low-budget, budget-travel adventure?

1. Beitou Geothermal Valley

The source of Beitou’s hot springs, “Geothermal Valley,” although its temperature reaches up to 100°C and you can’t actually soak in the hot springs, the year-round steam rising from the water surface and the crystal-clear hot spring water in a pale jade-green hue make it feel like you’ve entered a surreal place, making it one of the popular attractions.

Address: Next to Beitou Park, near the Zhongshan Road exit toward Wenhua Road, Beitou District, Taipei City
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:00-17:00, closed on Mondays

2. Yangmingshan National Park

Known as the “Back Garden of Taipei,” Yangmingshan National Park boasts rich natural ecology and a variety of attractions. Whether it’s the vast grasslands of Qingshan Pavilion or watching fireflies dance on summer nights, these are absolutely stunning sights not to be missed. Plus, the Yangmingshan Flower Season from February to June attracts visitors from all over who come to see the cherry blossoms and azaleas in full bloom on the mountains.

Address: No. 1-20, Zhuzihhu Road, Yangmingshan, Beitou District, Taipei City
Opening Hours: The scenic area is open all day; Visitor Center hours are 8:30-16:30

3. National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Symbolizing freedom and equality, the solemn and dignified Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall not only houses many exhibitions introducing President Chiang Kai-shek that provide insight into Taiwan’s history, but also the changing of the guard ceremony that takes place every hour from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm outside the memorial hall. The perfectly synchronized and spectacular scene is definitely one of its must-see highlights.

Address: No. 21, Zhongshan South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City (Memorial Hall)
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 9:00-18:00; Memorial Park: Monday-Sunday 5:00-24:00

4. Ximending Red House

Built over a hundred years ago, the well-preserved three-story historic site “Ximending Red House,” the oldest of its kind in Taiwan, is located in the bustling Ximending area of Taipei. It houses numerous theaters and cinemas and has become a famous cultural hub in Taipei. The two-story Red House features a first floor with themed exhibits on the history of the Red House, cafes, etc., and a second floor that hosts various art and cultural events in the Red House Theater.

Address: No. 10, Chengdu Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 11:00-21:30, Friday and Saturday 11:00-22:00 (closed on Mondays)

▲Xingtian Temple. (Photo / Reporter Xu Wenbin)

5. Xingtian Temple

Having comforted the hearts of many Taiwanese people, Xingtian Temple has become one of the must-visit attractions for international tourists. With many devoted followers, what sets Xingtian Temple apart from other temples is its unique practice of not burning incense or having donation boxes. Occasionally, it also offers spirit-calming services, allowing visitors to deeply experience Taiwan’s traditional cultural beliefs.

Address: No. 109, Section 2, Minquan East Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
Opening Hours: Daily 6:00-22:00

6. Longdong Cape

With a terrain that resembles a coiled dragon, Longdong’s unique geological landscape has made it one of the world’s top coastal rock climbing sites, attracting many domestic and international climbers to take on the challenge. Don’t worry if you’re not into climbing—whether you’re snorkeling to see the underwater scenery or swimming with tropical fish, the views above and below the water are absolutely breathtaking.

Address: No. 3, Lane 62, Longdong, Gongliao District, New Taipei City

7. Japan Pharmacy Museum

The Japan Pharmacy Museum, which sells Japanese pharmaceuticals and daily necessities, recreates scenes from Japan’s Showa era. The dim lighting exudes a strong nostalgic vibe, while the recreated old Japanese streets, a Japanese-style clinic, and a shrine are so authentic that you might think you’ve truly been transported to Japan.

Address: No. 83, Xining South Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City
Business Hours: 14:00–21:00