Songshan District is a fantastic place to discover Taiwanese culture, with a colourful Taoist temple and a bustling night market. Its central location also makes it easy to head downtown and hit up Taipei’s modern skyscrapers, world-class museums and trendy shopping strips.

Things to do

If you’re a self-confessed foodie, Songshan District is a great place to sample local delicacies. When it comes to choice, nothing beats the sprawling Raohe Street Night Market, where you can devour everything from stinky tofu to pineapple sponge cake.

Dedicated to the goddess Mazu, the triple-tiered Ciyou Temple is a Songshan icon. The Taoist temple is built in traditional folk style, with a colourful facade and a mosaic roof that give it a wonderfully quirky look.

For a tranquil escape from the city buzz, head to the grassy expanse of Yingfeng Riverside Park. You can also venture further afield to Yangmingshan National Park, an oasis of bubbling hot springs and forested trails.

The Songshan District borders downtown Taipei, which makes it easy to tick off top attractions. Raised more than 300 years ago, the Lungshan Temple of Manka dates back to the Qing Dynasty. After touring the temple, head to historic Qidong Street, where you can admire rows of beautifully preserved Japanese colonial houses.

Getting Around

Songshan District is dotted with MRT stations, which makes it easy to get from A to B. Buses are a budget-friendly way to get around, though taxis are much faster. If you’re heading to Taoyuan International Airport, allow at least 40 minutes of travel time.