Introduction to Daan Forest Park
Often referred to as the “Central Park of Taipei,” Daan Forest Park is the largest urban park in the city and a beloved retreat for both locals and tourists. Located in the bustling Da’an District, it offers a refreshing escape from the city’s dense skyline, with over 26 hectares of open space filled with trees, walking paths, and calm ponds. It’s where nature and modern Taipei coexist in perfect balance.
A Favorite Spot for Locals
From early morning joggers to evening strollers, Daan Forest Park is a place where daily life flows gently around nature. Elderly groups practice tai chi, families ride bikes, students read on benches, and street musicians play near shaded walkways.
The park’s atmosphere is peaceful yet lively, making it a true neighborhood gathering place that reflects the rhythm of urban Taiwanese life.
Birdwatching and Nature Encounters
For nature lovers, the park is a surprise sanctuary. Its rich greenery attracts over 70 species of birds, including egrets, bulbuls, and kingfishers. Turtles bask on rocks near the pond, squirrels dart through trees, and butterflies flutter along flower beds.
Daan Forest Park isn’t just a place to walk—it’s a place to observe and connect with the biodiversity that still thrives in Taipei.
Family-Friendly and Accessible Design
With its spacious playgrounds, clean restrooms, accessible paths, and shaded picnic spots, Daan Forest Park is especially popular with families. Kids can run free in designated play areas or explore nature trails, while parents relax nearby.
The park’s design considers everyone—from children and elderly visitors to those with mobility needs—making it one of the most inclusive green spaces in the city.
Cultural Life and Community Events
More than just a park, Daan also serves as a cultural space. The outdoor amphitheater regularly hosts performances, concerts, and seasonal festivals. Yoga groups gather on the lawns, while occasional weekend markets bring in local artisans and food stalls.
It’s a park that feels alive—not just with nature, but with creativity and community energy.
A Place for Reflection and Wellness
Beyond its natural beauty and recreational value, Daan Forest Park also offers moments of quiet reflection and personal renewal. You’ll find serene spots around the lotus pond, shaded benches under banyan trees, and open lawns perfect for meditation or stretching.
Many locals use the park as part of their daily wellness routines—walking, stretching, journaling, or simply enjoying a mindful break from busy city life. It’s a gentle reminder of how important green spaces are for both physical and mental well-being.
Conveniently located right next to Daan Park MRT Station, the park is easy to access from anywhere in the city.
Taipei Full-Day Itinerary
- 08:00 – Hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan Trail)
MRT: Xiangshan Station (Red Line R02) → 5-min walk to trail entrance.
Start your day with a short hike (15–20 min up) for one of the best skyline views of Taipei. Go early to avoid heat and crowds.
Don’t miss the famous “Six Boulders” photo spot.
- 10:00 – Taipei 101 Observatory
Walk or take 1 stop west to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station (R03)
Take the ultra-fast elevator to the 89th-floor observatory for a panoramic view of Taipei.
Estimated time: 1 hour to explore, take photos, and browse the gift shop.
- 11:30 – Lunch in Xinyi District (Food Court)
Choose from Taipei 101 Mall, Breeze, or Shin Kong Mitsukoshi food courts.
Options include Din Tai Fung, Taiwanese bento, sushi, Korean BBQ, or light café fare.
- 13:00 – Daan Forest Park
MRT: Daan Park Station (Red Line G09)
Walk, relax, or enjoy birdwatching and the ecological pond. A great urban green space to rest after lunch.
- 14:30 – Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
MRT: Take Green Line to CKS Memorial Hall Station (G10)
Explore the grand plaza, traditional architecture, and Changing of the Guard (on the hour).
Allow around 1 hour for walking and photos.
- 15:30 – Taipei Botanical Garden
MRT: Go one stop to Xiaonanmen Station (G11), then walk ~5 minutes
Visit lotus ponds, shaded trails, and the historic Guest House of Imperial Envoys.
Best enjoyed at a slower pace in the afternoon light.
- 17:00 – Longshan Temple
Walk or MRT: Longshan Temple Station (BL10)
Explore one of Taipei’s oldest and most sacred temples. Don’t miss the incense rituals, waterfall wall, and nearby Herbal Alley.
- 18:30 – Explore Ximending & Red House
MRT: One stop to Ximen Station (BL11)
Shop, people-watch, and enjoy dinner or drinks in this youth culture hub. The Red House area is LGBTQ+-friendly and filled with bars and indie shops.
- 20:30 – Ningxia Night Market
MRT: From Ximen Station, transfer to Zhongshan Station (R11/G14), then walk ~10 mins or take a short taxi
A compact, food-focused night market known for oyster omelets, fried taro balls, sesame chicken wings, and more. Great spot to wrap up your foodie journey.
- Optional Tips:
Bring an EasyCard for seamless MRT travel.
Wear comfortable shoes—this itinerary includes walking, park trails, and markets.
Carry water and sun protection, especially during warmer months.
Things to Do in Daan Forest Park
Daan Forest Park is a fantastic spot in Taipei for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. With its lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and well-maintained paths, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Daan Forest Park:
Stroll Along the Walking Paths
Daan Forest Park is crisscrossed with wide, shaded walking paths perfect for a peaceful stroll at any time of day. Whether you’re an early riser looking to walk among chirping birds or visiting in the golden hour before sunset, the park’s gentle loops and leafy trails invite a slower pace.
Benches along the way offer moments of pause, and the flat, accessible layout makes it easy for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
The paths take you through scenic zones—past fountains, open lawns, small wooded areas, and even art installations. Walking here offers not just exercise, but a calming, green break from the city’s busier districts.
Key Points:
Shaded, scenic, and flat trails perfect for all ages
Benches and quiet corners ideal for breaks and people-watching
Relax by the Daan Pond
At the heart of the park lies the ecological pond, a peaceful oasis where water lilies bloom and turtles sunbathe on warm rocks. It’s one of the park’s most picturesque and tranquil spots, attracting couples, artists, and photographers throughout the day. The wooden observation decks let you get closer to the pond’s flora and fauna without disturbing its natural balance.
This area is also great for quiet reflection, with natural sounds of water and birds replacing the usual city buzz. Whether you’re sipping tea, sketching, or simply gazing at the ripples, the pond is a space to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Key Points:
Calm, photogenic setting ideal for quiet moments
Wooden decks offer a closer look at aquatic life and birds
Birdwatching
Daan Forest Park is a hotspot for urban birdwatching, with over 70 species recorded throughout the year. From elegant egrets to playful bulbul and even migratory species during certain seasons, the park’s trees and ponds offer ideal habitats. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to spot the most activity.
Bird enthusiasts often gather with binoculars and cameras near the pond and wooded sections of the park. Whether you’re a casual observer or a serious birder, Daan Forest Park surprises with the amount of wildlife living right in the heart of Taipei.
Key Points:
Over 70 species of birds spotted annually
Best observed in the early morning near ponds and trees
Visit the Children’s Playground
The park features a large, well-maintained children’s playground with colorful equipment and a soft-surface safety floor. It’s divided into areas suitable for different age groups, so toddlers and older children can both play comfortably and safely. Slides, swings, climbing structures, and sand play zones keep little ones engaged for hours.
Parents appreciate the clean facilities and shady seating areas nearby, making it a favorite weekend spot for local families. The surrounding greenery adds to the calming vibe, giving kids space to explore freely in a nature-filled environment.
Key Points:
Age-appropriate play zones with safe, modern equipment
Family-friendly layout with nearby seating and shade
Attend an Event at the Amphitheater
Daan Forest Park’s open-air amphitheater often hosts free concerts, community performances, and seasonal events. From local orchestras and dance troupes to cultural festivals and yoga gatherings, it’s a lively space that brings together people of all ages and interests.
The setting is casual—many bring mats or small chairs to sit on the lawn and enjoy the performances under the open sky. It’s a great way to experience local talent and culture in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
Key Points:
Regular performances and cultural events, often free
Open seating allows for a laid-back viewing experience
Picnic in the Open Spaces
Daan Forest Park offers expansive grassy areas perfect for spreading out a picnic mat and enjoying a slow, scenic lunch. Families, couples, and groups of friends often gather on weekends to relax under the trees with snacks, drinks, and games.
The clean, shaded areas and the peaceful ambiance make it an ideal location for picnics without needing to leave Taipei. Many convenience stores and bakeries are nearby, making it easy to grab supplies on the way in.
Key Points:
Large grassy fields perfect for casual gatherings and meals
Shaded spots and nearby stores make planning easy
Firefly Season at Daan Forest Park
Taipei’s Daan Forest Park is a hidden gem for firefly lovers in spring. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, these efforts successfully reintroduced fireflies to the park, making it one of the few urban areas in the world to have achieved firefly recovery.
In springtime, a small section of Daan Forest Park transforms into a magical habitat for fireflies. During April and May, designated areas are cordoned off in the evenings to protect these delicate creatures and allow the public to view them in low light.
This seasonal phenomenon is carefully managed, and volunteers often help guide visitors through the path. It’s a rare and beautiful sight—tiny glowing lights blinking in the darkness—right in the center of Taipei.
Key Points:
Rare chance to see fireflies in an urban environment
Peak Viewing Period:
The best time to observe fireflies is from mid-April to early May.
Species to Spot:
The most commonly observed species is Luciola ficta, an aquatic firefly known for its yellowish glow. These fireflies are an important environmental indicator, thriving in clean water sources.
Best Viewing Times:
Arrive around 6:30 PM to join guided tours, which typically start at 7:00 PM.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available in Mandarin, Japanese, and English. These tours provide insights into firefly ecology and conservation efforts.
Enjoy the Seasonal Flowers
The park’s landscaping changes with the seasons, offering colorful floral displays throughout the year. Cherry blossoms in spring, lotus blooms in summer, and golden foliage in fall turn the park into a living canvas. Visitors often plan return trips to see how the park transforms each season.
Designated flower gardens and tree-lined paths are especially popular for photography and casual strolls. Nature lovers will appreciate how thoughtfully the park highlights Taiwan’s seasonal beauty.
Key Points:
Seasonal blooms include cherry blossoms, lotus, and fall colors
Great for photography and nature walks throughout the year
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours
Price
Cost: Free Entrance
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Daan Forest Park in Taipei depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for, but generally, the park offers something beautiful to enjoy year-round. Here are some considerations for different times of day, week, and seasons to help you make the most of your visit:
Early Morning (around 6 AM – 8 AM)
This is the ideal time for a peaceful, serene experience in the park. The weather is cooler, and the park is less crowded, making it perfect for a relaxing walk, birdwatching, or meditation. If you’re a photographer, the soft morning light is also great for capturing the natural beauty of the park.
Late Afternoon (around 4 PM – 6 PM)
The late afternoon is another great time to visit. The weather cools down, and you can enjoy the park as the sun starts to set, creating beautiful golden-hour lighting. This is also when many locals come to exercise, and the park has a vibrant, yet peaceful atmosphere.
Weekdays (Monday to Friday)
Weekdays are generally less crowded compared to weekends, especially on Monday through Thursday. If you want to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed visit with fewer people around, these are the best days to explore the park.
You can stroll through the paths, sit by the pond, or engage in activities like yoga or reading without much interruption.
Weekends (Friday to Sunday)
The park can get busier during the weekends, especially in the late morning and afternoon. Many locals come to exercise, have family outings, or enjoy the park’s various amenities. While weekends are livelier and great for people-watching, it can feel crowded at times.
Best Time for Birdwatching
Early Morning (Spring and Autumn)
If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, early mornings in spring and autumn are the best times to visit. These are peak seasons for migratory birds, and Daan Forest Park is a popular spot for birdwatching.
During this time, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of local and migratory birds in their natural habitat, especially near the pond and wooded areas.
By timing your visit according to your preferences, you can enjoy all that Daan Forest Park has to offer, whether it’s a tranquil escape or an energetic outing.
How to Get to Daan Forest Park
By MRT (Metro)
Take the Red Line (Tamsui–Xinyi Line) to Daan Park Station (R06).
Use Exit 3, 4, or 5 — the park is just a 2–5 minute walk from the station.
By Bus
Buses that stop near the park include: 20, 22, 204, 226, 680, 74, and others.
Get off at stops like Daan Forest Park or Xinsheng S. Rd. Intersection (新生南路口).
By YouBike
YouBike stations are located at multiple corners of the park (e.g. Heping East Rd. and Xinsheng S. Rd. intersection).
You can ride to the park and dock your bike nearby—cycling inside the park is not allowed, but walking is easy.