The Ultimate List of Free Taipei Photo Spots
As a travel photographer, Taipei is a metropolis that offers an incredible urban landscape to capture. The star attraction for cityscape photography here is undoubtedly Taipei 101 – at one point the world’s tallest building. This bamboo-inspired steel and glass skyscraper is an architectural marvel that dominates Taipei’s skyline with its distinctive design.
Photographers can get creative with different angles and foregrounds to highlight the tower’s imposing yet graceful presence towering above the dense city sprawl. This list of Taipei photo spots is ever-growing, and I only want to expand on it when I myself have actually photographed at the locations. So be sure to check back periodically since I travel to Taiwan frequently!
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Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan 象山步道)
For some of the most breathtaking views of Taipei’s skyline take the MRT red line to the last stop, Xiangshan Station. From there, exit the station and look for signs that say “Xiangshan Hiking Trail.” Yes, you will need to do some actual hiking for this Taipei photo spot but it’s worth it. The trail is paved and is made up of stairs at an incline. Some physical fitness is required, but there is a railing and viewing platforms to take rests at.
This is one of the photographer’s meccas in the city and it does get crowded, especially at sunset. If you want to get a spot definitely go early! Alternatively, if you’re willing to spend some money and not wrestle for a photo spot, Shangri-La Taipei has undefeated sunrise views of the skyline.
Taipei Scooter Waterfall (民權西路機車海)
One of the most iconic Taipei photo spots. From the right angle below the elevated Taipei Bridge, the constant stream of moped scooters exiting the overpass blurs into an optical illusion. It’s an encapsulating scene that highlights Taipei’s extremely dense population and the ubiquity of two-wheeled transportation filling the streets.
You will need a telephoto lens because the ‘waterfall’ is a result of lens compression. The best time to go is between 7-9 am when morning rush hour has packed the bridge. Wear a mask to avoid inhaling smog from the mopeds.
How to get there
Take the MRT red line Tamsui-Xinyi to Minquan West Road or the yellow line to Daqiaotou Station and walk towards Taipei Bridge. Face the Taipei Bridge in the direction from Sanchong into Taipei onto Minquan West Road.
Tao Zhu Yin Yuan Building (陶朱隱園)
Known as “Agora Garden” in English, the Tao Zhu Yin Yuan tower is a high-rise building inspired by the double helix structure of DNA. Its unique design features two twisting towers representing the molecular shape. The Belgian architects, Vincent Callebaut Architectures, have seamlessly blended high-density urban living with sustainable green spaces in this striking residential complex. In a city where vertical living is the norm due to land constraints, few streets offer the respite of tree-lined avenues. This architectural marvel not only provides modern housing but also creates a refreshing oasis amidst the urban jungle. It’s super expensive to live here, though!
My mom used to reminisce about the days when streets in Hsinchu were lined with dense trees before rapid industrialization. The Agora Garden stands as a functional work of art that aims to revive that lost connection with nature while meeting the demands of contemporary living. It’s an innovative and eye-catching addition to Taipei’s skyline that harmonizes eco-friendly design with high-density housing.
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