Stinky Tofu Vendor in Taipei
Credit: Leo Lin
The region’ s geothermal foundation is well known as the source of local hot springs. The Beitou Hot Spring Museum preserves what was once the city’ s largest public baths and tells the story of the Beitou District’ s many active natural hot springs, including their locations. Millennium Hot Spring is one of several options for a steamy soak.
The Taipei Botanical Garden also offers a serene setting amid natural beauty. Located in the Zhongzheng District, the eight-hectare display garden features more than 2,000 plant species, organized into several sections. The Zodiac Garden and Poetry and Literature Garden will surely spark conversation. The Lotus Pond and Fern Garden create a calm ambience ideal for reflection and relaxation. The Botanical Gardens change with the seasons, offering something new throughout the year.
DAY TRIP
Daniel Chao answered immediately when asked about his favorite day trip.
“ This is ambitious,” he says.“ Take advantage of the Taiwan High Speed Rail and travel south to Tainan for a day trip. Start in the historic district and check out Anping Tree House, a former warehouse completely enveloped by a single banyan tree. Taichung is a foodie city, so you can’ t go wrong with any restaurant. Wander around the West Central District, check out Fuzong Street and Hayashi Department Store, and stop by Du Hsiao Yueh for a delightful bowl of noodles.”
Jiufen Old Street in Taipei
Credit: Elena Ermakova
Don’ t have much time? Chao suggests taking the MRT Red Line all the way to Tamsui, then walking along the waterfront and strolling among shops and restaurants while soaking up the charm of the old village.
Jill and Patrick Linn took a day trip to Jiufen in New Taipei City, about 85 minutes by train with one transfer. They walked to Shifen Waterfall, a 66-foot cascade famous for the rainbow that appears over the water most evenings. They also visited Jiufen’ s historic Old Street, a warren of narrow lanes that has changed little since the mid-19th century. Old Street is filled with small restaurants, cafes, and shops.
For Chao and Linn, returning to Taipei was more than just a family visit; it became a journey of rediscovering their identity through a city that constantly evolves. Amid its night markets, mountaintop temples, glass skyscrapers, and historic streets, they found a place that both honors its heritage and embraces its future. Whether visiting for the first time or returning after many years, visitors quickly realize that Taipei is not merely a waypoint but a dynamic story— one best explored by wandering its neighborhoods, sampling its cuisine, and allowing the city to unfold its vibrant layers.
GETTING THERE
Starting June 26, 2026, EVA AIR will operate nonstop flights between Taipei’ s Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport( TPE) and Washington Dulles International Airport( IAD). The service will run four times weekly on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner that features their next-generation Premium Economy product. Passengers flying from Washington, D. C., will be able to seamlessly connect to more than 20 destinations across Asia, including Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Manila, and Singapore.
SPRING & SUMMER 2026 11 FLYWASHINGTON. COM