What to Do in Beitou Taipei Besides Hot Springs, Taipei, Taiwan

Before coming to Taipei I got the impression that each of its neighborhoods is quite diverse. So, I thought it would be neat to stay in a few different neighborhoods while there, to get more of a feel for each. As my week in the Taipei Main Station area draws to a close, I begin regretting my decision.

I find it ironic that when I first arrived in this neighborhood, I wondered if I made a mistake choosing it. It feels a little run down with it’s odd overhang above each street, lots of hardware stores, and rather ecclectic. But, somehow, I not only got used to the area, I’ve come to find it really convenient to get everywhere. I contemplate staying in the area, but decide to go for the adventure. And boy, am I glad I did.

I have to check out of my hotel by 11, but my room in Beitou at the Chyuan Du Spring Resort won’t be ready until 4pm. This is an annoyance I have to learn to work around. I arrive at my Beitou hotel, and the lobby is so narrow, I begin to worry I’ve chosen badly. I get the impression the hotel is old, and the rooms must be tiny. I leave my bags by the elevators which are about six feet from the small reception desk. Somehow I trust that they’ll be fine and I go for a walk. Pro Tip: The fastest way to Beitou is via the MRT to Beitou or Xinbeitou, depending where your hotel is located. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).