Fall Foliage Viewing Spots And Best Time In Taipei

Autumn Maples in Taipei: A Guide to Fall Foliage and Hidden Gems

Want to experience Taiwan’s version of autumn magic? While Japan gets most of the attention for fall colors, Taipei quietly transforms into a red-and-gold wonderland between October and December. The city’s mountainous terrain and mild climate create perfect conditions for maple trees, liquidambar, and Taiwanese cherry plump trees to burst into vibrant hues. Unlike crowded destinations, Taipei offers intimate, off-the-beaten-path spots where you can soak in autumn without the chaos. Here’s your guide to when, where, and how to catch Taipei’s fleeting fall beauty—plus tips to make the most of your visit.

When is the best time to see autumn maples in Taipei?

Taipei’s fall foliage season peaks from late November to early December, but timing can vary based on altitude and weather. Lower-altitude areas like Yangmingshan National Park (阳明山) start showing color in mid-October, while higher regions such as Mt. Arayaya (阿拉亚山) and Beitou Hot Springs (北投温泉区) reach their peak by late November. For the latest updates, check Taiwan’s official tourism website or local social media pages—many spots post real-time photos of leaf changes. Pro tip: Visit on a crisp, sunny morning to catch the light dancing through the leaves!

Where are the top spots for fall foliage in Taipei?

Here’s your shortlist of must-visit locations:

1. Yangmingshan National Park: Taiwan’s most famous autumn destination. Hike the Zhuzihu Trail (竹子湖步道) for views of maples reflecting in volcanic lakes, or snap photos at the Liaojiao Bridge (寮桥) surrounded by red-orange trees.
2. Daqiaotou Riverside Park (大沟溪畔公园): A hidden gem in the city’s north. Walk along the riverbank to see liquidambar trees (台湾枫香) turning fiery red, framed by Taipei’s skyline.
3. Mt. Qixing (七星山): For adventurous hikers, this dormant volcano offers panoramic views of fall-colored valleys. Start early to avoid cloud cover!

How do I get to these spots without a car?

Taipei’s public transport is your best friend. Here’s a quick guide:

• Yangmingshan: Take Taipei Metro’s Red Line to Jiantan Station (剑潭站), then transfer to bus 109 or 111. The park’s visitor center provides maps and hiking tips.
• Daqiaotou Park: Ride the Taipei Zoo Station (动物园站) on the Brown Line, then walk 15 minutes northeast. The path is flat and stroller-friendly.
• Mt. Qixing: From Beitou Station (新北投站), take bus 108 to the trailhead. Expect a steep 2-hour hike—pack water and snacks!

What else can I do near these attractions?

Turn your foliage hunt into a full-day adventure:

• Yangmingshan: After hiking, warm up with hot tea at a mountainside teahouse or bathe in Qinshan Hot Springs (擎天岗温泉). Don’t miss the nearby Tianxia Weili (天下第一财神庙) for Instagram-worthy photos.
• Beitou: Combine fall vibes with relaxation. Soak in hot springs at hotels like Lavish Resort, then explore the Beitou Museum of Calligraphy (北投书法博物馆) to learn about Taiwan’s cultural heritage.
• Wenshan District: Visit the Cat’s Village (猴硐猫村) after seeing maples in Maokong Mountain (猫空山). It’s a cute detour for animal lovers!

Any tips for photography or avoiding crowds?

Absolutely! For photo-perfect shots:

• Visit during weekdays or early mornings to dodge tour groups.
• Use the golden hour (sunrise/sunset) to enhance autumn colors.
• Bring a wide-angle lens for landscape shots, but don’t forget close-ups of dew-covered leaves! Pro tip: Mt. Arayaya (乌来拉拉山) is lesser-known but worth the trip. Its mix of maples and Aboriginal culture makes for unique albums.

Table: Fall Foliage at a Glance