Yangmingshan & Wulai

Yangmingshan National Park — Taipei's Green Lung

Only 40 minutes by bus from the city center, the Yangmingshan National Park (陽明山) stretches over the hills north of Taipei. The park is of volcanic origin: steaming fumaroles, hot springs, sulfur scents, and lush vegetation make it the perfect day trip for nature lovers. In February/March the cherry trees bloom here, in May the hydrangeas turn the slopes into a violet-blue sea of flowers.

The main hiking trails: Qingtiangang Grassland (flat, water buffalo graze on green meadows with views of Taipei), Xiaoyoukeng (steaming volcanic fumaroles, intense sulfur smell), and the Seven Star Mountain Trail (Taipei's highest point, 1,120 m, about 2h ascent). Admission: free. Bus 260 or Red 5 from Taipei Main Station.

Wulai — Indigenous Culture & Hot Springs

The Atayal village Wulai (烏來) is located 40 minutes south of Taipei and offers a unique combination of indigenous culture, hot springs, and a spectacular waterfall. The Wulai Waterfall plunges 80 meters — a cable car takes you to a viewing platform with panoramic views. On the riverbank, there are free public hot springs where locals and tourists sit together in the warm water.

The Wulai Old Street offers indigenous specialties: wild boar sausages, mochi, bamboo rice, and millet wine. In the Atayal Museum, you can learn about the culture of Taiwan's indigenous people. Bus 849 from Xindian Metro Station (30 min).