This New Taipei City Travel Guide helps you make the most of your day in the city. It features a well-crafted travel itinerary and a detailed budget for the trip.
Disclaimer: Some information in this New Taipei City Guide changes too often. If you continue reading this article, you agree to cross-check information with the concerned authorities. Read the site’s full Terms.
Introduction
A visit to Shifen to marvel at the colorful sky lanterns would be a must-do activity on any trip to New Taipei City. This is among the three main reasons why, in spite of the inclement weather, I spent an entire day in the city.
It was raining when I arrived in Yehliu Geopark in New Taipei, my first stop in the northernmost city of Taiwan. This natural landscape is often renowned for its unique features. As much as I wanted to stay a little longer, I had to cut short my visit due to incessant rains.
I then made my way to Jiufen Old Street, which took me around two hours to reach the upland marketplace. It is well-known for shopping and dining, with rustic gift shops, and tea houses lining up along the winding and steep alleyways.
Though the afternoon weather remains entirely unbearable, I immediately left for Shifen. Shifen Old Street is the precise location where sky-lit lanterns, which reveal someone’s intentions, are thrown into the air. It would be a shame not to partake in this Taiwanese custom penning my wish, ‘Success for Traveledictorian.’
New Taipei City Travel Guide Contents
- Quick Fact About New Taipei City
- Visa in Taiwan
- Standard Time in New Taipei City
- Climate in New Taipei City
- Best Time to Visit New Taipei City
- Language in New Taipei City
- Currency in New Taipei City
- Modes of Payment in New Taipei City
- Ways of Getting to New Taipei City
- Getting Around New Taipei City
- Areas to Stay in New Taipei City
- Internet in New Taipei City
- Power Adaptor in New Taipei City
- New Taipei City Travel Guide Itinerary
- Budget for New Taipei City Trip
- New Taipei City Guidebook Resources
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Quick Fact About New Taipei City
New Taipei is the largest city in Taiwan. Urban expansion and administrative restructuring led to the formation of the former Taipei County.
Visa in Taiwan
Holders of foreign passports intending to visit New Taipei, Taiwan should contact the National Immigration Agency of Republic of China, or R.O.C, with regards to the entry requirements. Otherwise, consult iVisa.com, a reputable and trusted visa service provider.
Philippine passport holders traveling for tourism in Taiwan are visa-exempt until July 31, 2025, for a maximum of 14 days.
However, travelers must undergo stringent immigration procedures before departure. Read ‘How to Avoid Getting Offloaded at Philippine Immigration?’
Standard Time in New Taipei City
The Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC, in New Taipei City is UTC +08:00.
New Taipei City is four hours ahead of Dubai, six hours ahead of Paris, and seven hours ahead of London. Furthermore, New Taipei City is twelve hours ahead of New York City. Contrarily, New Taipei City is an hour behind Tokyo and three hours behind Sydney. New Taipei and Manila share the same time.
Climate in New Taipei City
The northern region of Taiwan has a climate that slightly differs from the south. As opposed to the southern sector, which has a persistently high temperature, the northern areas have a humid subtropical climate.
New Taipei City, which lies on Taiwan’s northern extremity, experiences a fairly hot and humid summers and a relatively cold winters.
Best Time to Visit New Taipei City
New Taipei City, like the rest of the island, is a all-year destination. However, it is ideal to visit when the weather is pleasant and bearable.
March to May
Visitors to New Taipei City may experience a moderately hot and humid temperature, which commences in March up until May. However, April has the most pleasant weather, which is appropriate for outdoor recreations, including flower viewing at Yangmingshan National Park.
June to August
Mild drizzles and intense downpours will likely to be experienced from June through August. The temperature and humidity in New Taipei City are at their peak, especially in July, which is the warmest month.
Moreover, New Taipei City is prone to typhoons in August, which makes it a least favored month to visit.
September to November
The months of October and November are the ideal months to visit New Taipei. The weather is mild and there is a slight chance of rain.
Apart from the agreeable weather, the autumn foliage also provides a visually arresting urban backdrop.
December to February
January and February are the coldest times of the year to explore New Taipei City. Besides the chilly and uncomfortable weather, this is also the busiest month in Taiwan.
Christmas, Chinese New Year, and the Lantern Festival in Pingxi District certainly draw a crowd during these months.
Language in New Taipei City
Majority of locals speak Mandarin Chinese, the official language in New Taipei City. In addition, the Taiwanese Hokkien, or simply Taiwanese, is also used in communication.
English, on the other hand, is rarely utilized in conversation. However, directional signs have translations in English. Here are the essential Mandarin Chinese words and phrases to learn before your trip to New Taipei City:
- Nǐ hǎo – Hello
- Nǐ jiào shénme míngzì? – What is your name?
- Wǒ de míngzì shì.. – My name is..
- Xìng huì. – It is a pleasure to meet you.
- Zài nǎ li? – Where is it located?
- Jǐnjí chūkǒu – Emergency exit
- Qǐng zài shuō yī biàn? – Could you repeat that?
- Zài jiàn – See you again
Currency in New Taipei City
New Taiwan dollar, abbreviated as NTD, or TWD, is the official currency of Taiwan. As of August 30, 2024, the exchange rate is NTD 1, PHP 1.76, or USD 0.031.
The laws governing foreign exchange services are more stringent in Taiwan. Only accredited banks, which include the Bank of Taiwan, are able to issue the currency. While independent money exchangers are not prevalent in Taiwan, foreign exchange booths in hotels, department stores, and airports is authorized to render the service.
In New Taipei City, automated teller machines are extensively dispersed and open around-the-clock. But inform your home bank in advance if you intend to use an ATM abroad.
New Taipei City Travel Guide Reminder: Any travelers are prohibited from carrying more than NTD 100,000, or USD 10,000, when entering and leaving Taiwan. Thus, any excess amount that is undisclosed will be confiscated.
Modes of Payment in New Taipei City
Standard methods of payment, including cash, plastic cards, and stored-value smartcards, are accepted in New Taipei City. Electronic wallets are also used for a variety of retail transactions.
Cash
In New Taipei City, cash is a prevalent form of payment. Therefore, it is recommended to have adequate cash on hand, particularly for retail purchases, as establishments in the city prefer cash transactions.
Bank Cards
In upscale establishments, bank cards are used in place of hard cash. Typically, high-end dining facilities, hotels, and shops accept debit, credit, and prepaid cards.
Transit Pass
For payments related to transportation in New Taipei City, EasyCard is an additional option, along with iPass and the iCash 2.0 card. These handy e-cards can be used for bike rentals and train and bus services. Additionally, it is also honored in shopping and dining transactions.
This non-refundable e-card, without a load, is sold and reloadable at rail stations and in most convenience shops for NTD 100, PHP 175.64, or USD 3.13.
Electronic Wallets
Online payment tools, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, are practical and offers a seamless retail and dining transactions.
Ways of Getting to New Taipei City
Taiwan constitutes the main island and Penghu archipelago. Situated around vast expanses of water, the island spans roughly 36,000 square kilometers.
Lies north, northeast, and east of Taiwan are the East China Sea and Pacific Ocean. The Bashi Channel, on the other hand, is bound to the south, while the Taiwan Strait is oriented to the west.
While traveling by sea is an option, flying is the most practical way to get to the mainland.
By Air
A good number of airports in major cities in Taiwan handle international flights, such as the Songshan Airport in Taipei and Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, the closest aviation hubs in New Taipei City.
There are reliable transport options from these airports, including subways and airport trains. Moreover, city buses and cabs travel to various points in New Taipei City.
New Taipei City Travel Guide Reminder: The length of journey between Manila and Taiwan is 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Taoyuan to New Taipei City
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, located in Taoyuan, is the primary gateway in Taiwan. This airport serves the majority of aircraft landings with ease of access to New Taipei City and the rest of the island.
Railway transits provide a convenient means to reach the city with Taoyuan and Taipei metros. Additionally, public buses and taxis are other alternatives for passengers from Taiwan’s main entry point to northern Taiwan.
Taichung to New Taipei City
Travelers arriving at the Taichung International Airport have the option to ride a bus or taxi to Taichung HSR Station or Taichung Main Station. Both stations connect Taichung and New Taipei City utilizing Taiwan High-Speed Rail, or Taiwan Railways, which travel as fast as an hour.
Alternatively, buses also run between these two cities.
Kaohsiung to New Taipei City
The primary gateway to the southern region of Taiwan, the Kaohsiung International Airport, caters to a number of international flights. From the airport, buses, cabs, and the MRT Red Line travel to Kaohsiung Main Station and Zuoying HSR Station.
Both stations bridge Kaohsiung and New Taipei City through high-speed rails and conventional intercity trains. The duration of journey between these two cities using the quicker rail transit is about an hour and 30 minutes.
By Water
Taiwan Strait separates Taiwan from mainland China. Ferries are in service, albeit with fewer departing times.
From mainland China, catch a ferry at Pingtan, which plies to Bali District in New Taipei City. Instead, embark on a sailboat at the seaports of Xiamen and Fuzhou to reach Keelung, New Taipei’s neighboring city.
Getting Around New Taipei City
The Greater Taipei Area, which consists of Taipei, Keelung, and New Taipei City, is the largest metropolitan area in Taiwan. Trains and other modes of transit form part of an extensive and dependable regional transportation network that links the three cities.
A major hub for transit in New Taipei, Banqiao, links the capital, Taipei, and various portions of Taiwan.
Train
The well-connected railway network in the Greater Taipei Area offers ease of access when navigating Taiwan’s largest metropolitan area. It is an economical and expedient method with a number of train lines currently in service.
Mass Rapid Transit
The Airport MRT under the Taoyuan Metro is a railway service connecting the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport with Taoyuan, Taipei, and New Taipei City. There are two rail lines in operation: the express train and commuter train, which run to the western portions of New Taipei City.
Normally, the hours of operation commence at 6:00 a.m. and cease operation at 11:30 p.m. daily. A single-journey ticket, on the other hand, starts at NTD 30, PHP 52.68, or USD 0.94. The passenger service also provides seasonal and group discounts.
The Taipei Metro, also the Taipei MRT, is an underground rapid transit system serving Taipei and the encompassing area, New Taipei City. Initially, it has five rail lines in service, along with Circular Line of the New Taipei Metro, traversing various locations.
This efficient and well-connected rapid transit provides a reasonable fare for passengers. The cost of a one-way ticket starts at NTD 20, PHP 35.12, or USD 0.63, while fare discounts are available to frequent riders. Usually, the hours of operation are from six in the morning through midnight, with longer hours on holidays.
Light Rail Transit
A level-ground and above-ground urban rail public transit system, the Light Rail Transit of the New Taipei Metro, serves portions of New Taipei City. Two lines are currently operational: Danhai Light Rail, which covers portions of the northern sections, and the Angkeng Light Rail, serving parts of the southern areas.
The cost of a one-way journey ticket starts NTD 20, PHP 35.12, or USD 0.63. On the other hand, the first rail service departs at 6:00 a.m. and leaves off at 12:00 a.m.
Bus
With hundreds of routes in Greater Taipei Area, taking a public bus is an option. This on-ground transport is cheap and dependable method to navigate the vast expanse of the metropolitan.
New Taipei City Travel Guide Reminder: How do I board and exit the bus in New Taipei City? In New Taipei City, two doors are common on buses. Proceed through any of the two doors and pay the exact sum of cash on the box located beside the driver. Instead, scan your transit pass over the sensor.
As you approach your destination, press the stop button. Tap your electronic card anew on the card reader machine as you leave either of the two doors.
Regular Bus
Areas in New Taipei City are well served by city buses, particularly in remote destinations where train service is not operational. They follow a predetermined route and drop off passengers at designated bus stops.
The fare, which starts at NTD 15, PHP 26.34, or USD 0.47, varies depending on the distance traveled.
Tourist Shuttle
A tourist shuttle is intended solely for tourism purposes. The low-floored bus service follows specified routes, passing through a number of tourist spots, like Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, and Shifen.
Depending on the route, a tourist shuttle in New Taipei City usually leaves as early as 5:00 a.m. The cost of the service charged per segment at NTD 15, PHP 26.34, or USD 0.47. Discounted tickets, on the other hand, are offered to seniors 65 years and over, children under 12 years, and disabled individuals.
As an alternative to cash, you can avail the Taipei Fun Pass, which entitles you unlimited access on the Taipei Metro, city buses, and tourist shuttles for up to three days. There’s more! You can also get free and discounted admission to a number of attractions with the pass.
Taxi
Some train and bus services in New Taipei City require lengthy waiting times. Hence, taking a taxi is an option. Cabs in the city are more expensive; however, they provide convenience as you journey throughout the city.
Fare is based on meter and charged NTD 85, PHP 149.26, or USD 2.66 for the initial 1.25 kilometers. Additionally, NTD 5, PHP 8.78, or USD 0.16 is charged for each subsequent 200 meters after reaching 1.25 kilometers. Extra fee applies for holidays, late-night trips, and waiting periods.
New Taipei City Travel Guide Tip: Nearly all taxi drivers in New Taipei do not speak English. Consequently, for convenience of navigation, it is important to obtain a copy of your hotel address or sites of interest.
Ferry
New Taipei City consists of 29 districts, which includes Tamsui and Bali. Tamsui River, a major waterway in New Taipei City, separates the two coastal neighborhoods. These suburban areas boast historical and colonial sites, greeneries, and riverbank promenades.
To reach Tamsui Ferry Pier from Bali Pier or vice versa, embark on a 10-minute ferry ride. The first trip is at 7:00 a.m., while the last is at 8:00 p.m. and goes until 9:00 p.m. on the weekends.
A one-way journey ticket is priced at NTD 23, PHP 40.39, or USD 0.72 for adult passengers. Children are entitled to a reduced fare of NTD 12, PHP 21.08, or USD 0.38.
Bicycle
New Taipei City, much like the other Taiwanese cities, have embraced the use of bicycle as an alternative mode of transportation. More than a thousand Youbike 2.0 kiosks are spread out across the city and are readily rented out.
The orange-white-colored bicycles are a cost-effective option when getting around the city. A half-hour usage costs NTD 10, PHP 17.57, or USD 0.31.
In order to use the bicycle rental service, it is required to install the Youbike 2.0 app with a Taiwan SIM card, then register your IC card or credit card.
Areas to Stay in New Taipei City
New Taipei City has become an ideal day trip destination for its proximity and ease of access from Taipei. Visitors prefer to stay in the capital due to its broad selection of hotels and other accommodations.
While there are a number of lodging options in New Taipei, it is worth spending at least a day acquainting oneself with the appeal of Taipei’s surrounding city.
Banqiao
Besides a thriving commercial district and the headquarters of New Taipei City’s government, Banqiao serves as a significant transit hub. The Taiwan High-Speed Railways, Taiwan Railways, Taipei Metro, and intercity buses traverse at Banqiao Station, bridging the city to the rest of Taiwan.
A plethora of retail establishments are also close to one of Taiwan’s busiest stations, which makes this neighborhood a hotspot for endless shopping.
Sanchong
The residential area of Sanchong District hosts fewer accommodation options and places of interest. However, its proximity to Taipei and ease of access to Taoyuan Taiwan International Airport, utilizing the airport MRT, makes it an ideal location for expedient transfers.
Tamsui
Historically a western colony, Tamsui is a coastal district located east of New Taipei City. Its cuisine, culture, and architecture bear traces of the deep influences of the West.
Some of its noteworthy collections of colonial structures are the Former British Merchant Warehouse, Fort San Domingo, and Hongmao Castle.
Ruifang
Ruifang, a mountainous district positioned to the northwest of New Taipei City, is an old mining town. Following the closure of the gold mining industry in the area, it has flourished into a tourism destination.
Well worth seeing are the two remaining reminders of its modest beginnings, the New Taipei City Gold Museum and the Jiufen Gold Mine Museum. Additionally, it is also home to the must-see attraction in Ruifang, the Jiufen Old Street.
Internet in New Taipei City
Free internet access is offered via the ‘New Taipei Free Wi-Fi Service,’ and ‘iTaiwan.’ To fully take advantage of the internet service inside public transits, rail stations, and establishments, registration is needed.
Additionally, complimentary Wi-Fi is offered in convenience stores, restaurants, cafès, hotels, and airports.
Power Adaptor in New Taipei City
New Taipei City operates on a 110 V supply voltage with a frequency of 60 Hz and uses two types of power adaptors:
- A or has two flat parallel pins
- B or has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin
New Taipei City Travel Guide Itinerary
Day 1 - Wanli, Ruifang, and Pingxi
New Taipei City Travel Guide Reminder: It takes around 750 meters to walk from point A to point B.
08:57 am Arrival in Taipei from Kaohsiung
08:57 am – 09:10 am Head to accommodation
- From Taipei Main Station
- Walk toward accommodation
09:10 am – 09:50 am Confirm reservation and early check-in at Re-Change Hotel, and prepare for the tour
New Taipei City Travel Guide Tip: Alternatively, stay in a hostel. A hostel is an inexpensive lodging facility that provides basic amenities, like bunk beds and shared bathrooms. Thus, book a hostel in New Taipei City if you are on a budget.
09:50 am – 10:05 am Head to Taipei Station
- From accommodation
- Walk toward Taipei Main Station
10:05 am – 11:30 am Head to Yehliu Geopark
- From Taipei Station, Kuo-Kuang Bus Terminal, East Gate, M2, Bay 5
- Take the Kuo-Kuang Express Bus 1815 toward Jinshan Youth Activity Center
- Alight at Yehliu Bus Stop, Gangxi Road
- Walk toward Yehliu Geopark
11:30 am – 12:25 pm Explore Yehliu Geopark
Yehliu Geopark
Yehliu Geopark, which spans 1,700 meters in length, is a coastal landform that lies northward of New Taipei. The natural landscape in Wanli features odd-looking rock formations formed through a variety of natural forces.
Among the unusual geological characteristics are rocks that resemble candles, mushrooms, a dragon’s head, bear’s paws, fairy’s shoes, etc. Additionally, the Queen’s Head, which draws hordes of photo enthusiasts, is the geopark’s most identifiable feature.
Yehliu Geopark is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., while the admission fee is NTD 120, PHP 210.88, or USD 3.75.
12:25 pm – 01:20 pm Head To Keelung
- From Yehliu Geopark
- Walk toward Yehliu Bus Stop, Gangxi Road
- Take Keelung Bus 790 toward Keelung Bus Station
- Alight at Maritime Plaza Bus Stop, Zhongyi Road
- Transfer
01:20 pm – 02:09 pm Head to Jiufen Old Street
- From Chenghuang Temple Bus Stop, Zhongyi Road
- Take Keelung Bus 788 to Shuinandong
- Alight at Jiufen Old Street Bus Stop, Ruijin Road
- Walk toward Jiufen Old Street
02:09 pm – 04:24 pm Explore Jiufen Old Street, have lunch and snacks, and buy souvenirs
Jiufen Old Street
Located on the northeast of New Taipei City, Jiufen is a small mountain town in Ruifang District. Back in the 1890s, this mountainous village had a rich deposit of gold. Hence, mining activities thrived and became the town’s main industry.
Following the downturn of the gold mining industry, the tourism sector flourished in the 1990s. With its fair number of tourist sites, Jiufen Old Street draws a massive crowd with its traditional Taiwanese setting. The highland shopping and dining destination is home to old tea houses and cafès, vintage souvenir shops, and old-fashioned eateries lining up along the winding alleyways.
Most establishments on Jiufen Old Street are open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., from Monday through Thursday. From Friday to Sunday, shops remain open up until 10:00 p.m.
04:24 pm – 04:55 pm Head to Ruifang Train Station
- From Jiufen Old Street
- Walk toward Jiufen Police Station Bus Stop, Jiubin Road
- Take Keelung Bus 1062 to Zhongxiao Fuxing Station
- Alight at Ruifang Train Station
- Transfer
04:55 pm – 05:32 pm Head to Shifen Old Street
- From Ruifang Train Station, Platform 3
- Take the Taiwan Railway – Pingxi Line 4834 to Jingtong
- Alight at Shifen Train Station
- Walk toward Shifen Old Street
05:32 pm – 06:30 pm Explore Shifen Old Street, release a sky lantern, and purchase souvenirs
Shifen Old Street
Shifen, a quaint little town in Pingxi District, is a famous destination for its traditional sky lantern festivity. During the Japanese colonial rule, it served as a passageway for coal mines.
Shifen’s old street is the precise location where sky-lit lanterns are flung up into the sky, with someone’s sincere intentions penned on the colorful paper lanterns. Hence, long rows of lantern shops line in this charming old street, in addition to many souvenir shops and eateries surrounding the old railroad.
It would be a loss to skip out on Shifen’s long-held tradition. Let your wishes do come true, book a Sky-Lantern Prayer Experience Ticket!
Furthermore, a 40-meter waterfall is another attraction worth visiting. The cascade is about a 30-minute walk from Shifen Old Street.
New Taipei City Travel Guide Tip: Witness Pingxi Mass Lantern Release held every fifteenth day of the first lunar month.
06:30 pm – 7:05 pm Head to Ruifang Station
- From Shifen Old Street
- Walk to Shifen Train Station, Platform 1
- Take the Taiwan Railway – Pingxi Line 4735 to Ruifang Train Station
- Alight at Ruifang Train Station
- Transfer
07:05 pm – 08:12 pm Head to Taipei
- From Ruifang Train Station, Platform 2A
- Take the Local Train 4209 toward Zhongli
- Alight at Taipei Main Station
Is our DIY trip to New Taipei City too much for you to handle? Instead, schedule a hassle-free Yehliu, Jiufen, and Shifen Day Tour.
08:12 pm – 09:30 pm Have dinner and walk toward accommodation
09:30 pm – 10:30 pm Prepare for sleep
10:30 pm Sleep
Budget for New Taipei City Trip
In 2024, I spent PHP 1,389.07 for one day in New Taipei City. However, costs may still vary depending on your travel lifestyle. Please read ‘35 Excellent Tips to Save Money on Travel.’
Below is New Taipei City Travel Guide budget for your reference.
Pre-Departure
- Yehliu Geopark admission ticket, PHP 203.70
- Sky Lantern Prayer Experience, PHP 295.40/2, PHP 147.70
1st Day
- Tapei Main Station to Yehliu Bus Stop via Bus, PHP 174.60
- Yehliu Bus Stop to Maritime Plaza Bus Stop via bus, PHP 52.91
- Chenghuang Temple Bus Stop to Jiufen Old Street Bus Stop via bus, PHP 52.91
- Lunch and snacks, PHP 276.52
- Jiufen Police Station Bus Stop to Ruifang Train Station via bus, PHP 26.45
- Ruifang Station to Shifen Station via train, PHP 52.91
- Shifen Station to Ruifang Station to Taipei Main Station via train, PHP 158.77
- Dinner and snacks, PHP 242.60
New Taipei City Travel Guide Resources
To help you with your travel plans, I’ve gathered a checklist of carefully chosen travel resources. These are the trusted online marketplaces that I highly endorse because of their excellent deals.
Looking for an easy-peasy solution to process your visa application and other travel documents? Consult iVisa!
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Reserve a room on one of the largest online hotel booking platforms, Agoda. It offers unbeatable hotel deals!
Explore the world with HostelWorld! Make a reservation and share a space with newfound buddies.
Drive your way to undiscovered places! Book a car via Discover Cars and experience hassle-free road trips.
New Taipei City Travel Guide Question: What is the annual festival that takes place in Pingxi District on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month?
Please drop your answers or messages in the comment section. Thank you, and see you on the road!
About the Author
J. Sac is the author of ‘New Taipei City Travel Guide: An Excellent Guide to the World.’ He is also the founder of Traveledictorian – a travel blog that publishes well-thought-out travel content.
His passion for writing, photography, and travel fueled him to explore Asia and the rest of the world. He also plans to undertake humanitarian work in his travels. Read his inspiring story and follow him on social media!
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