Beyond Daan: Three parks in Taipei to hang out in
Green escapes other than Daan Forest Park
While Taipei is ringed by mountains, green space within the city itself is limited. According to a 2025 study published in the journal Land, Taipei provides just 5.36 square meters of public green space per person, well below the World Health Organization’s recommended minimum of 9 square meters. Less than 3% of the city's urban land is allocated to park space.
Still, Taipei has some fantastic green spaces in the city proper.
Daan Forest Park is a great example. Opened in 1994 after the clearance of illegal dwellings, it is often described, according to the Taipei City Government, as the “lungs of the city.” Today, it sits surrounded by high-end residential blocks, but walk around and you'll feel worlds away, surrounded by tree-lined paths, open lawns, and a mix of wildlife, from squirrels and birds to turtles.
Daan Forest Park might be Taipei's most well-known park, but dotted around the city are many smaller, quieter green spaces that are worth checking out.
#1: Central Art Park
A hidden green space behind Huashan 1914 Creative Park
Central Art Park is a sprawling green space behind Huashan 1914 Creative Park, which is easy for tourists to miss, despite it being larger than the former factory grounds themselves.
It’s a popular spot for picnics, casual football games, or just stretching out on the grass. Around the edges, perimeter paths fill with joggers and walkers, especially as the day cools off.
Because of its location, the park sometimes spills over with activity from Huashan, including live music and small-scale events.
There’s also a playground designed around the site’s railway history and its past as the Huashan brewery, according to the Taipei City Government. It features zip lines, a water and sand play area, and a large climbing structure.
It might not be the kind of park you plan your day around, but it's a good place to chill after visiting Huashan 1914 Creative Park.
#2: Xinsheng Park
A rose garden, maze, and playground all in one place
Xinsheng Park sits in a quiet stretch of Zhongshan District, not far from the riverside, and is divided into distinct sections.
The standout section is Taipei Rose Garden, the largest in Taipei, according to the city government. With hundreds of varieties that peak in spring, it’s well-maintained and draws a steady mix of photographers, couples, and people looking to chill.
Elsewhere, the park opens up into wider lawns and shaded paths, and there's a small hedge maze.
For children, there’s an expansive playground with climbing structures, slides, and space to run around. It’s one of the busier parts of the park, especially at the weekend.
It's also a couple of hundred meters from the Keelung River, which is convenient if you want to extend your walk or do a bike ride. It's also close to Lin An Tai Historical House and Museum, one of the oldest residences in Taipei, according to the city government.
#3: Nangang Park
Ponds, paths, and a slower pace
Established in 1987 around Houshanpi Lake, Nangang Park feels more natural than most of Taipei’s green spaces. Two large ponds anchor the park and are surrounded by bridges, pavilions, and shaded paths.
There are also mini hiking routes and quieter corners that feel a bit removed from the city. Some paths are close to Nangang Mountain if you want a longer route.
Around the water, you’ll likely see lots of men fishing. Older residents often come here for exercise or to spend time playing mahjong. The green spaces get especially busy in summer, with people setting up tents and settling in for the day.
There's a small-ish playground that includes a zip line, a jogging path, and tennis courts. From higher points in the park, you get views of the surrounding hills, parts of the city, and even Taipei 101 on a clear day.
Some local blogs describe parts of the park as having “good fengshui” or a calming energy. Whether or not you buy that, it’s a part of Taipei that feels removed from the busy city.
In conclusion...
Taipei may be short on green space, but these three parks are great if you need a respite from the busy urban landscape.
