New Taipei
· TW

New Taipei

New Taipei, Taiwan

New Taipei, located in Taiwan, is a vibrant and diverse destination that offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. As the most populous city in Taiwan, New Taipei is a bustling metropolis that boasts a rich cult…

#urban#metropolitan#cultural#historical#touristic
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Stay & flyThings to doPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into New Taipei.

Top Hotels in New Taipei

Top Flights to New Taipei

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in New Taipei.

Tours

Visit Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf

A scenic riverside spot known for its breathtaking sunset views, seafood dining, and lively atmosphere.

Shopping

Shopping at Banqiao District's Night Market

Experience local street food and shopping at its vibrant night market.

Outdoor

Hiking in Yangmingshan National Park

Explore beautiful hiking trails, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes in Yangmingshan.

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in New Taipei.

Currency
NT$ | TWD | New Taiwan Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of New Taipei, Taiwan is 4 million.
Languages
Chinese, Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka Chinese

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on New Taipei.

What people love

New Taipei City in Taiwan offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it a great destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to New Taipei include:

  1. Natural Beauty: New Taipei City is home to stunning natural landscapes such as the lush mountains of Wulai, the beautiful beaches of Gongliao District, and the scenic Yangmingshan National Park. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, hot springs, and beachcombing.

  2. Cultural Heritage: The city is rich in history and culture, with numerous temples, historic sites, and traditional markets to explore. Places like the Sanxia Old Street, Lin Family Mansion and Garden, and Yingge Ceramics Old Street offer a glimpse into Taiwan's cultural heritage.

  3. Modern Amenities: New Taipei City also has modern amenities and attractions, such as shopping malls, amusement parks, and entertainment districts. Visitors can enjoy shopping at places like Banqiao Mega City Mall or have fun at Leofoo Village Theme Park.

  4. Delicious Food: Taiwan is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, and New Taipei City is no exception. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of street food, local specialties, and international cuisines at the city's many restaurants and night markets.

  5. Convenient Transportation: New Taipei City is well-connected by public transportation, including an extensive MRT system, buses, and taxis, making it easy for visitors to explore the city and its surroundings.

Overall, traveling to New Taipei City offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, modern amenities, delicious food, and convenient transportation options for a memorable trip.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to New Taipei, Taiwan could include:

  1. Language barrier: While many people in New Taipei may speak English, there could still be challenges in communication, especially in more rural areas or with older generations.

  2. Traffic congestion: New Taipei is a densely populated area, and traffic congestion can be a common issue, particularly during rush hours.

  3. Air pollution: Like many bustling cities, New Taipei may have issues with air pollution, especially in certain areas with heavy traffic or industrial activity.

  4. Crowds: Popular tourist destinations in New Taipei, such as Jiufen Old Street or Shifen Waterfall, can get very crowded, especially during peak travel seasons.

  5. Weather: Taiwan's weather can be unpredictable, with typhoons and heavy rain possible, which could impact travel plans.

  6. Cultural differences: Travelers may experience culture shock or misunderstandings due to differences in customs, etiquette, and social norms.

It's important to note that these potential cons may vary depending on personal preferences and individual travel experiences. It's always a good idea to research thoroughly and be prepared when visiting a new destination.

New Taipei, officially known as New Taipei City (新北市), is a special municipality and the most populous city in Taiwan. It surrounds the capital, Taipei, and is located in the northern part of the island. Here's a detailed history of New Taipei:

Early History:

  • Prehistoric and Indigenous Era: The area where New Taipei is located has been inhabited for thousands of years. Indigenous groups such as the Ketagalan people were the original inhabitants of the region.
  • Dutch and Spanish Colonization (17th Century): During the early 17th century, both the Dutch and Spanish had colonial interests in northern Taiwan. The Spanish established a fort at Tamsui in 1629, but the Dutch expelled them in 1642.

Qing Dynasty:

  • Qing Rule (1683-1895): Taiwan was annexed by the Qing Dynasty in 1683. During this period, Chinese Han immigrants settled in the area, developing agriculture and trade.

Japanese Rule:

  • Japanese Occupation (1895-1945): Following the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan was ceded to Japan in 1895. The Japanese developed infrastructure, including railways and public works, which contributed to the urbanization of the region.

Post-World War II:

  • Retrocession to China (1945): After Japan's defeat in World War II, Taiwan was handed over to the Republic of China (ROC). The region experienced significant changes, including an influx of mainland Chinese immigrants following the Chinese Civil War.

Modern Era:

  • Creation of Taipei County: The area that is now New Taipei was originally Taipei County. It underwent rapid urbanization and industrialization in the latter half of the 20th century.
  • Upgrade to New Taipei City (2010): On December 25, 2010, Taipei County was upgraded to a special municipality and renamed New Taipei City, reflecting its urban development and population growth.

Significant Events:

  • Typhoon Nari (2001): This typhoon caused widespread flooding and damage in the region, prompting improvements in disaster response and infrastructure.
  • Economic and Industrial Growth: New Taipei has become an important industrial and economic hub in Taiwan, hosting many technology companies and manufacturing industries.

Historical Figures:

  • Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong): Although not directly associated with New Taipei, Koxinga played a significant role in Taiwan's history by expelling the Dutch from Taiwan in 1662. His influence extends to the entire island.
  • Chiang Wei-shui (蔣渭水): An important figure in Taiwan's early 20th-century social and political movements, advocating for reform during Japanese rule.

Important Landmarks:

  • Tamsui (Danshui) District: Known for its historical sites, old streets, and scenic waterfront, it was one of the earliest developed areas and a significant port during the Qing and Japanese eras.
  • Bitan Scenic Area: Located in Xindian District, it is a popular spot for boating and leisure activities.
  • Yehliu Geopark: Famous for its unique geological formations, including the iconic "Queen's Head" rock, located on the coast of Wanli District.
  • Jiufen and Jinguashi: Historic mining towns in the Ruifang District, known for their old streets, tea houses, and stunning views.

New Taipei City continues to be an important cultural, economic, and political center in Taiwan, offering a blend of historical significance and modern development.