Visitors to Taipei are often shocked by the labyrinth of elevated roadways and hordes of scooters zipping down streets with little regard for speed or passenger limits. Thus, it’s often even more of a shock for tourists to learn that Taipei is actually one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in Asia. The city of Taipei itself is incredibly compact, making bicycles a smart transportation option for tourists and locals alike. Perhaps even more enticingly, the entirety of the Taipei and New Taipei area is spanned by a riverside trail that follows the course of the Keelung, Xindian and Tamsui rivers through the city. If you’re looking for a way to see the city, catch a breath of fresh air, and stay active, a one-day bike tour of Taipei is the perfect option for you. We’ve compiled a list of must-visit destinations near Taipei’s bike trail so you can make the most out of your day. Nearly all of these destinations can be fit into a one-day trip. Worried about renting a bike? Taipei’s got you covered. Taipei’s Ubike bike sharing system is both cheap and convenient, and there are stops located throughout Taipei to rent or return bikes.

A Breath of Fresh Air

If you’re traveling to Taipei, chances are you had a long flight. If you’re traveling with kids, they may have a lot of pent-up energy, or you might just want to stretch your legs. The riverside trail is dotted by numerous riverside parks, and even the smallest of parks boast tennis courts, basketball courts, and playgrounds for children. Take a picnic to the sprawling Dajia Riverside Park, known for its huge expanses of greenery and beautiful views of Taipei City. If you do make a stop here, it’s only a 5 minute ride to the Lin An-Tai Historical House and Museum, a Fujianese-style home and courtyard more than 200 years old. For more greenery, consider making a pit stop at the Taipei Botanical Garden or Expo Park, the home of weekend farmers’ markets and artistic and botanical exhibitions. If you’re feeling especially ambitious, head to the nearby Jiantanshan Hiking Trail. The trail takes little more than an hour round-trip, and you can take in beautiful panoramic views of the city at the top. The hike is even more famous for its beautiful night views of the city, so consider saving this for your last stop.

Dajia Riverside Park

Photo Credits: Wikipedia

An-Tai Historical House and Museum

Photo credits: Wikipedia

Riverside Bike Trail

Photo credits: Flickr

Taipei Botanical Gardens

Photo credits: Wikipedia

Experience the Culture

Taipei is known for its rich temple culture, and for good reason. Taiwanese religion is a unique mix of Taoism, Buddhism, and folk beliefs, creating a rich cultural tapestry unlike any other country in Asia. Less than two kilometers from the bike trail, tourists can choose between Longshan or Xingtian Temple. Longshan Temple is famous for its intricate architecture and mosaic artwork depicting figures from Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Here you can still see locals burning incense to various gods or throwing half-moon shaped blocks like dice to ask for guidance from the gods. If you visit Longshan Temple, be sure to make a stop at the nearby Monga Dizang Temple. Although quite small and less touristy, the temple was originally constructed in 1760 and offers a peek into Taiwan’s pre-colonial history. On the other hand, Xingtian Temple is the most popular temple in Taipei. It differs from Longshan Temple in that there is no paid fortune-telling or incense offerings. In fact, no commercial activities of any kind are allowed. If you want to experience the most authentic temple culture, Xingtian Temple is the place for you. If you’re bringing kids along, don’t worry about them being bored. The hundreds of statues of various gods and monsters at these temples will keep them entertained for hours.

Longshan Temple

Photo credits: Flickr

Photo credits: Flickr

Xingtian Temple

Photo credits: Wikipedia

Grab A Bite To Eat

A daylong bike trip is no joke, and you’re going to need to fuel up. However, if you’re making a trip to Taipei, you’ve probably already done your research on must-try foods. Instead, we’d like to recommend some areas that can satisfy your cravings while also giving you a taste of Taiwanese culture. For a fusion of traditional and modern, ride to Dihua Street, one of the most famous old streets in Taipei. Here, foodies can sample traditional Taiwanese foods, such as dried longan, mushrooms, and other local delicacies. Dihua Street is located in the larger Dadaocheng Area. Once Taipei’s old city center, Dadaocheng is now an upcoming artistic and cultural area. If you want the signature Taiwanese experience, finish your day trip at the Huaxi Street Night Market or Raohe Night Market. The Huaxi Street Night Market is located very close to Longshan Temple, so you can plan your route to finish there if you want to visit the night market. Huaxi Street Night Market is known best as Taiwan’s first night market, and in its early days its most famous delicacy was snake blood and organs (don’t worry, they don’t sell these anymore!). At either of these night markets, you can sample all of Taiwan’s most famous street foods, including stinky tofu, roasted squid, bubble milk tea, and fried sweet potato balls.

Dihua Street

Photo credits: Michael Rehfeldt

Huaxi Street Night Market

Photo credits: Flickr

Raohe Night Market

Photo credits: Flickr

Food at Raohe Night Market

Photo credits: Flickr

No matter if you’re traveling solo or with family, touring Taipei by bike is a great way to make the most out of your time here. It’s easy, cheap, convenient, and most importantly fun! Trails are well-maintained and easy even for novices. Traveling by bike, you don’t have to be confined to MRT stations or confused by complicated bus routes. And the good news is that all of the attractions mentioned can fit into an entire day’s itinerary. So what are you waiting for? Strap on your helmet and go explore!