Taipei is the bustling capital of Taiwan, a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new. Its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes make it a paradise for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts alike making it one of the world’s most Instagrammable cities. In this photography guide to Taipei, we’ve curated 15 of the most Instagram-worthy spots for a photoshoot that will make your followers swoon.
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1. Ximending District: Taipei Rainbow Flag Crossing
The Ximending District is a bustling hub of activity, known for its vibrant street art, trendy shops, and the iconic Taipei Rainbow Flag Crossing. This colorful pedestrian crossing is a symbol of Taipei’s progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights and is a must-visit for any Instagram enthusiast.
The district illustrates Taipei’s youthful energy and creative spirit. As you wander through its busy streets, you’ll find a plethora of unique boutiques, hip cafes, and street performers that add to its lively atmosphere. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity, making it a fascinating backdrop for your Instagram shots.
The Rainbow Flag Crossing, in particular, is a popular spot for photographers. Its vibrant colors stand out against the urban landscape, creating a striking contrast that’s sure to catch your followers’ attention. Whether you’re capturing a candid street scene or posing for a photo, this spot is a must-visit when in Taipei.
- Address: Rainbow Road
- Best Time for Photos: Early morning or late evening when the streets are less crowded.
2. Treasure Hill Artist Village
Nestled on a hillside overlooking the Tamsui River, the Treasure Hill Artist Village is a thriving community of artists and creatives. The village’s narrow alleyways, colorful murals, and unique architecture make it a perfect backdrop for your Instagram feed.
The village is a testament to Taipei’s surprisingly robust art scene. As you explore its winding paths, you’ll come across a variety of art installations, workshops, and galleries, each offering a glimpse into the creative minds of its residents. It’s a place where art and life intertwine, creating a unique atmosphere that’s both inspiring and captivating.
One of the highlights of the village is its architecture. The buildings here are a mix of old and new, with traditional Taiwanese houses sitting alongside modern art studios. This blend of styles creates a visually interesting landscape that’s perfect for photography.
- Address: No. 2, Alley 14, Lane 230, Section 3, Tingzhou Rd, Zhongzheng District
- Best Time for Photos: Late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm glow on the village.
3. Elephant Mountain
For the best panoramic views of Taipei, make your way up to Elephant Mountain. The hike may be steep, but the breathtaking view of the Taipei skyline and Taipei 101, especially at sunset, is well worth the effort.
The trail to the top is quite a picturesque journey as well. As you ascend, you’ll pass through lush forests and rocky terrain, offering plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The sound of chirping birds and the scent of fresh greenery add to the experience, making the hike as enjoyable as the view at the top.
Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with an unbeatable view of Taipei. The city’s skyscrapers stand tall against the backdrop of rolling hills and the blue sky, creating a striking contrast that’s perfect for photography. The most iconic sight is the Taipei 101 tower, which dominates the skyline and makes for an impressive photo.
- Address: 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District
- Best Time for Photos: Sunset for a stunning silhouette of the Taipei skyline.
See also: 11 Best Photo Spots in Riga for the Perfect Instagram Photo
4. 228 Peace Memorial Park
The 228 Peace Memorial Park is a serene oasis in the heart of Taipei. Its lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and historic 228 Memorial Monument make it a peaceful spot for contemplative photography.
The park is a place of reflection and remembrance, dedicated to the victims of the 228 Incident in 1947. As you stroll through its paths, you’ll find a variety of monuments and statues, each telling a story of Taiwan’s past. It’s a place where history and nature converge, offering a unique setting for your Instagram shots.
The 228 Memorial Monument is a popular spot for photographers. Its striking design stands out against the greenery of the park, creating a powerful image that’s sure to leave an impression on your followers. Whether you’re capturing the monument’s shape or the quiet moments of reflection it inspires, this monument is a must-visit when in Taipei.
- Address: Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100
- Best Time for Photos: Early morning when the park is quiet and the light is soft.
5. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a grand monument dedicated to the former President of the Republic of China. Its majestic architecture, beautiful gardens, and the changing of the guard ceremony offer endless photo opportunities.
The hall itself is a marvel of architecture. The blue roof and white marble facade stand out against the backdrop of Taipei’s modern skyline, creating a striking contrast that’s perfect for photography. Inside, you’ll find a museum dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek’s life and legacy, offering a glimpse into Taiwan’s history.
The gardens surrounding the hall are also impressive. With their manicured lawns, colorful flowers, and tranquil ponds, they offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re capturing the grandeur of the hall or the quiet beauty of the gardens, this spot is a must-visit for any photographer in Taipei.
- Address: 100, Taiwan, Taipei City, Zhongzheng District
- Best Time for Photos: Mid-morning when the sunlight illuminates the hall’s facade.
6. Longshan Temple
Longshan Temple, one of the oldest temples in Taiwan, is revered as a testament to the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Its intricate carvings, ornate decorations, and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit spot for photographers.
The temple is a place of worship and celebration. As you explore its halls, you’ll come across a variety of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian deities, each housed in its own shrine. The scent of incense fills the air, adding to the temple’s spiritual atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the temple is its architecture. The temple’s intricate carvings and colorful decorations are a feast for the eyes, offering endless photo opportunities. Whether you’re capturing the grandeur of the main hall or the quiet corners of the temple, this spot is a must-visit when in Taipei.
- Address: No. 211, Guangzhou St, Wanhua District
- Best Time for Photos: Early morning or late evening when the temple is beautifully lit and less crowded.
7. Huashan 1914 Creative Park
Once an old winery, the Huashan 1914 Creative Park is now a vibrant cultural and creative hub. Its blend of historic architecture and modern art installations offers a unique setting for your Instagram shots. As you explore its grounds, you’ll come across a variety of art installations, exhibitions, and performances, each offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant art scene. It’s a place where creativity thrives, making it a must-visit for any art enthusiast.
One of the highlights of the park is its architecture. The old winery buildings have been repurposed into art studios and galleries, creating a unique blend of old and new. This contrast between the historic architecture and modern art creates a visually interesting landscape that’s perfect for a stunning contrast shot.
- Address: No. 1, Section 1, Bade Rd, Zhongzheng District
- Best Time for Photos: Afternoon when the park is bustling with activity.
8. Tamsui Old Street
Tamsui Old Street, located along the Tamsui River, is famous for its sunset views, historic buildings, and street food. The lively atmosphere and picturesque setting make it a favorite among photographers.
The street is like a museum of Tamsui’s rich history. As you stroll along its cobblestone paths, you’ll come across a variety of historic buildings, each telling a story of the town’s past. It’s a place where history comes to life, offering a unique setting for your Instagram shots.
One of the highlights of the street is its food scene. The street is lined with food stalls selling a variety of local delicacies, from fresh seafood to sweet treats. The sight of vendors preparing these dishes, the smell of the food, and the bustling atmosphere make it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
- Address: No. 1, Zhongzheng Rd, Tamsui District
- Best Time for Photos: Sunset when the setting sun casts a golden glow over the river.
9. Taipei 101
Dominating the Taipei skyline, Taipei 101 is an architectural marvel and a symbol of Taiwan’s economic prowess. The skyscraper’s unique design and stunning city views make it a must-visit spot for any Instagram enthusiast.
The tower is a testament to Taiwan’s technological advancement. Its unique design, inspired by the bamboo stalk, stands out against the backdrop of Taipei’s skyline, creating a striking image that’s perfect for photography. The tower’s observation deck offers a panoramic view of the city, making it a must-visit for any photography enthusiast.
One of the highlights of the tower is its elevator. Recognized as one of the fastest in the world, the elevator whisks visitors to the observation deck in just 37 seconds or 37.7 miles an hour up to the 101st floor. The ride itself is an experience, with the elevator’s interior lighting up with a light show during the ascent.
- Address: 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District, Section 5, Xinyi Rd, 7號89樓
- Best Time for Photos: Night when the skyscraper is beautifully illuminated.
10. Shilin Night Market
Shilin Night Market, the largest and most famous night market in Taiwan, is a paradise for food lovers. Its bustling atmosphere, a wide variety of street food, and colorful stalls mean there are plenty of photography subjects.
The market is a hotspot for Taiwan’s vibrant street food culture. As you wander through its busy streets, you’ll come across a plethora of food stalls selling everything from bubble tea to stinky tofu. The sight of vendors preparing these dishes, the smell of the food, and the bustling atmosphere make it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
One of the highlights of the market is its games section. Here, you’ll find a variety of traditional Taiwanese games, from ring toss to claw machines. Whether you’re capturing the excitement of the games or the vibrant colors of the stalls, you’ll definitely want photos of the Shilin Night Market while you’re in Taipei.
- Address: No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District
- Best Time for Photos: Evening when the market is bustling with activity.
11. Beitou Hot Springs
Beitou Hot Springs, located in the northern part of Taipei, is a popular retreat for locals and tourists alike. Its tranquil atmosphere, lush greenery, and steaming hot springs make it a perfect backdrop for a relaxing phot in your Instagram feed.
The hot springs underline that Taiwan is a hotbed of volcanic activity. As you explore the area, you’ll come across a variety of hot springs, each with its own unique characteristics. The sight of the steaming water, the lush greenery, and the tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit for any nature enthusiast.
One of the highlights of Beitou is its traditional Japanese architecture. The buildings here are a blend of Taiwanese and Japanese styles, creating a unique landscape that’s perfect for photography.
- Address: No. 6號, Zhongshan Rd, Beitou District
- Best Time for Photos: Morning when the area is quiet and the light is soft.
12. National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese art, is a must-visit for any art enthusiast. Its grand architecture, beautiful gardens, and vast collection make it a perfect spot for photography.
The museum displays a treasure trove of China’s rich cultural heritage. As you explore its halls, you’ll come across a variety of artifacts, from ancient bronzes to imperial jade. One of the highlights of the museum is its architecture. The building’s traditional Chinese design stands out against the backdrop of Taipei’s modern skyline, creating a striking contrast that’s perfect for photography.
The sight of the treasures on display set in the grandeur of the museum’s architecture and the tranquil atmosphere make this an essential stop on your Taipei photo tour.
- Address: No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District
- Best Time for Photos: Mid-morning when the sunlight illuminates the museum’s facade.
13. Maokong Gondola
The Maokong Gondola is a cable car service that offers stunningly photogenic angles of Taipei. Its panoramic views, lush tea plantations, and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect backdrop for your Instagram feed.
The gondola ride is an experience in itself. As you ascend, you’ll pass over lush forests and tea plantations, offering a bird’s eye view of Taipei’s stunning landscape. The sight of the city from above, the lush greenery, and the tranquil atmosphere will give your Instagram feed a touch of green while you explore Taipei’s urban jungle.
One of the highlights of Maokong is its tea culture. The area is known for its high-quality tea, and you’ll find a variety of tea houses where you can sample different varieties. Whether you’re capturing the tea-making process or the stunning views from the gondola, you’ll definitely want to get some photos here while in Taipei.
- Address: No. 8, Section 2, Xinguang Rd, Wenshan District
- Best Time for Photos: Late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm glow on the landscape.
14. Yehliu Geopark
Yehliu Geopark, located on the north coast of Taiwan, is a natural wonder that’s perfect for photography. Offering unique rock formations, stunning sea views, and diverse wildlife.
The geopark showcases Taiwan’s geological diversity. As you explore its trails, you’ll come across a variety of rock formations, each with its own unique shape and size, while enjoying the natural sculptures, the crashing waves, and the tranquil atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the geopark is the Queen’s Head, a rock formation that resembles the profile of a queen. Its unique shape and the surrounding seascape create a striking image that’ll perfectly fill your frame 📸
- Address: 207, Taiwan, New Taipei City, Wanli District, 港東路167-1號
- Best Time for Photos: Morning when the area is quiet and the light is soft.
15. Jiufen Old Street
Jiufen Old Street, located in a mountain town east of Taipei, is a popular spot for photographers and Instagrammers. The narrow alleyways, vibrant red lanterns, and breathtaking sea views create a familiar image that captures what most people imagine when they think of Taiwan.
The street stands as a tangible reflection of Taiwan’s mining history. As you wander through its narrow paths, you’ll come across a variety of tea houses, souvenir shops, and food stalls, each adding to the street’s lively atmosphere. It’s a place where history and culture converge, offering a unique setting for your Instagram shots.
One of the standout features of the street is its food scene. Known for its local delicacies, ranging from taro balls to herbal rice cakes, it offers a sensory experience that entices any food enthusiast. The captivating sight of vendors skillfully preparing these dishes, accompanied by the enticing aromas, create a fantastic atmosphere to capture Taipei.
- Address: Jishan St, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 224
- Best Time for Photos: Late afternoon when the lanterns are lit and the streets are bustling with activity.
Bottom Line
And there you have it, 15 of the most Instagrammable spots in Taipei. From the colorful streets of Jiufen Old Street to the breathtaking views from Taipei 101 Observatory, each location provides a captivating backdrop for your photos, allowing you to capture the essence of Taipei’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re strolling through the artistic district of Ximending or marveling at the architectural beauty of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, these spots are fantastic for your Instagram feed. So grab your camera, hit the streets, and embark on a visual adventure through Taipei’s hidden gems. Don’t forget to tag us in your captures using #TravelSpill. Happy shooting!
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