The Top 3 Biking Routes in Taipei

Apr 19, 2020

In a city as compelling as Taipei, building a comprehensive itinerary seems like an impossible feat.

So, what’s the best way to pack all of Taipei’s top destinations into a limited timeframe? Two words: city cycling.

The scenic riverside bike paths that weave in and around the city are hugely underutilized by tourists. But with bike rental hubs at every MassRapid Transit (MRT) station, exploring Taipei has never been more convenient.

Following are a few of the best one-way cycling routes for sightseeing in the city.

Yuanshan to Nangang
Length: 9 miles (one hour)
Before taking off on this route, cyclists should check out the cultural attractions near Yuanshan MRT station, from the wonderfully curated Taipei Fine Arts Museum to the culinary hub of Maji Square. Nearby, the Keelung River Bicycle Trail leads cyclists on a leisurely route.

Some recommended detours include the city’s trendy Fujin Street, as well as the Wufenpu Shopping District, a retail complex that contains unique clothing vendors.

If the timing is right, cyclists can pop into Raohe Night Market after sunset and try some of Taipei’s most famous street food snacks, such as blackpepper bao and mango shaved ice.

Post-feast, head home from Songshan MRT Station, or continue along the bike path to Nangang Exhibition Center.

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall to Taipei 101
Length: 3 miles (30 minutes)
The only way to really take in the size and scale of the gargantuan Taipei 101 skyscraper is to ride a bike directly toward it.

Starting at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, cyclists can pedal along Xinyi Road while exploring neighborhoods along the way. Suggest travelers take a quick loop around Da’an Forest Park before continuing straight toward Taipei 101.

Another short detour will lead to the historic Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall.

Treasure Hill to Tamsui
Length: 19 miles (two hours)
Beginning in the busy university neighborhood of Gongguan, cyclists can admire the uniquely Taiwanese architecture of Treasure Hill. Once a densely populated village, the complex now serves as an artistic space for various galleries and exhibitions.

Pedal down from Treasure Hill directly onto Tamsui Riverside Path. This path is beautifully decorated with flowers, making for an idyllic ride. Cyclists should follow signs to cross Keelung River and head north into the seaside town of Tamsui.

For a cool down after the ride, recommend a stop at Tiger Sugar for some delectable brown sugar bubble milk tea. Fort San Domingo, a historic landmark built by Spanish imperial forces in 1628, is nearby and worth a visit. After checking out the fortress for a dose of history, suggest that travelers end their day at the Fisherman’s Wharf, which is the perfect spot for catching a panoramic sunset view.

How to Rent a Bike

There are many ways to rent a bike in Taipei, but the most convenient (and locally beloved) method is YouBike. Tourists can register for YouBike with a credit card deposit of about $65 and a local phone number. (Picking up a local SIM card at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is a good idea — visitors can get unlimited data at an affordable price and navigate all their bike adventures with ease.)

For more dedicated cyclists, a three-day rental from Giant Bicycles costs about $50. Other rental companies can be found along the city’s numerous riverside paths.

The Details
Taiwan Tourism Bureau
eng.taiwan.net.tw