According to the latest data, Taipei City currently has over 200 kilometers of dedicated bicycle lanes, and the riverside bicycle path system has been rated as one of the best urban bicycle paths in the world. The riverside ride from Guandu Nature Park to the Tamsui Riverbank, about 25 kilometers, is the most popular classic route among cyclists; while hidden paths in the city's alleys, such as the Zhongshan North Road green tunnel and Zhinan Road Trail, offer a completely different urban cycling experience. Which cycling scenario do you prefer?
- Riverside Bicycle Path System: Connects five major riverside parks along the Tamsui River and Keelung River, with beautiful scenery and complete pedestrian-cyclist separation, View Route Guide
- YouBike: Over 1,500 rental stations throughout the city, available 24 hours for borrowing and returning, is the best transportation for exploring city secret paths, Rental Guidelines
- Shuanghe Bicycle Path: The hidden urban green corridor, with cafes and creative boutiques along the way
If you truly want to know Taipei, riding a bicycle might be more interesting than taking the metro. At first glance, this city appears crowded and busy, but once you turn onto the riverside bike paths or mountain trails, you'll discover another Taipei—peaceable, layered, and brimming with local living culture.
Taipei's cycling network has undergone revolutionary improvements over the past decade. Thanks to the well-developed riverside bike path system and recent bike-friendly policies, Taipei has become a new model for urban cycling in Asia. Unlike Kyoto's cycling culture in Japan or the leisurely cycling in Tainan's historic city, Taipei's unique cycling charm lies in its clever weaving together of modern urban landscapes, historical relics, and natural mountains and waters. Especially against the backdrop of Chinese outbound tourism reaching over 175 million trips, more and more international tourists are discovering the joy of cycling in Taipei, which has also driven further upgrades in rental services and cycling facilities.
Recommended Cycling Routes
Xindian River Riverside Bicycle Path: The Daily Cycling Trail of Taipei Residents
This route is the entry-level choice for cycling in Taipei, spanning approximately 75 kilometers. You can choose sections to ride based on your time. Starting from the south of the city and riding northward along the Xindian River, you'll pass the confluence of the Jingmei River and Xindian River. In the morning or evening, sunlight glistening on the water surface, cyclists and anglers create a tranquil riverside life scene. The most scenic section of the Xindian River Bicycle Path is from Jingmei to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, with gentle slopes suitable for family cycling. Importantly, the entire path is equipped with clear signage and barrier-free ramps, ensuring comfortable cycling for wheelchair users and families with children.
Keelung River Riverside Bicycle Path: A Poetic Stroll Through Urban Mountains and Waters
If the Xindian River represents Taipei's "everyday" cycling, then the Keelung River embodies "poetry." This path winds along the city's edge, with the bicycle path spanning approximately 28 kilometers. Starting from the lower Xizhi area, you'll ride through Sanchong, Neihu, and finally reach the river mouth wetland. Along the way, you'll encounter multiple meandering sections of the Keelung River—particularly the river bend at the border of Nangang and Neihu, a must-visit for photography enthusiasts. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the riverbank; in autumn, it's the best season for distant views of Five Finger Mountain. The Keelung River Bicycle Path has slight undulations in the Neihu section, making it slightly more challenging than the Xindian River, suitable for cyclists with some experience. Multiple rental stations are available along the route with complete facilities.
Xiangshan Circular Ride: A High-Angle Adventure Overlooking Taipei
The Xiangshan cycling route is the holy land for advanced cycling enthusiasts in Taipei. This is not a gentle riverside ride, but a real mountain road challenge—spanning approximately 15 kilometers with over 500 meters of cumulative elevation gain. However, when you reach the top of Xiangshan (at an altitude of 183 meters—don't laugh, Taipei is indeed this mild), overlooking the entire basin illuminated by Taipei's 101, the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, and the mountains surrounding you in the distance, all the fatigue becomes worthwhile. This route is best started after 3 PM, allowing you to catch both sunset and night views. Many smaller paths alongside the Xiangshan Trail are suitable for cycling, with difficulty ranging from green to black trails. Beginners can choose the more gentle outer route around Xiangshan Park.
Tamsui River Riverside Bicycle Path: A Blend of Cultural Relics and River Scenery
The historical depth of the Tamsui River far exceeds that of ordinary rivers—it has witnessed Taipei's evolution from a fishing village to a metropolis. The Tamsui River Riverside Bicycle Path spans approximately 42 kilometers, running northward from the Guandu Bridge to the Tamsui Historic Park, with rich and varied scenery along the way. You'll ride past multiple historic ferry sites, creative parks transformed from warehouse buildings from the Japanese colonial period, and ecological wetlands created by local communities. This route is especially suitable for culture enthusiasts—consider stopping at Tamsui Old Street to sample local snacks, or visit the Hobe Fort to learn about modern history. The accessibility facilities in the Tamsui section are quite well-developed, allowing elderly cyclists and family visitors to ride safely.
Yangmingshan Peripheral Wind Ride: The Green Corridor at the City's Edge
If you've mastered basic cycling skills, the peripheral Yangmingshan cycling route will bring new challenges and rewards. This approximately 30-kilometer route passes through Zhuzihhu, Xiaoyoukeng, and other scenic areas, as well as multiple cedar forest zones—particularly beautiful when azaleas bloom in spring. The Yangmingshan route has steep slopes and is not recommended for beginners attempting alone, but the viewing platforms and dining facilities along the way are complete, allowing ample rest stops.
Practical Information
*Bicycle Rental*: There are over 50 public bicycle rental stations in Taipei City (YouBike 2.0), with rental fees at NT$5-10 per 30 minutes, unlimited distance (time-based charging). To rent professional-level bicycles, bike shops in the city charge NT$800-1,200 per day for mountain bikes, and NT$1,000-1,500 per day for road bikes. Rental shops near Taipei Metro stations are recommended, as they are usually equipped with repair stations and safety gear.
*Best Cycling Seasons*: Taipei is cyclable year-round, but autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are the best choices—comfortable temperatures (18-25°C) with relatively less rainfall. Summer (June to August) is less ideal, but cycling from 5-7 AM can still avoid the heat. Winter occasionally brings strong winds, but early spring is particularly suitable for mountain bike enthusiasts.
*Transit Connections*: All riverside bicycle paths are connected to Metro stations. The most convenient way is to take the Metro to Jingmei, Nehu, or Xizhi Station, then rent a bike to start cycling. You can also load your bicycle onto bus or Metro bike racks to travel between different cycling routes.
*Safety and Facilities*: Taipei's riverside bicycle paths underwent major accessibility renovations in 2024, with all main routes equipped with wheelchair ramps, rest benches, and restroom facilities. Medical stations and rescue phones are available along the routes, and safety helmets must be worn during cycling (required by Taiwanese law).
Travel Tips
Remember to check the weather forecast before cycling—afternoon thunderstorms are particularly common in Taipei during summer, but they come and go quickly. It is recommended to carry lightweight rain gear and sports drinks when cycling. If you are an international tourist, remember to download the "Taipei Pass" or "YouBike" official app, which supports mobile payment and allows real-time route planning. Many cyclists prefer to resupply at convenience stores along the riverside bicycle paths—Taipei has the highest density of convenience stores in the world, available everywhere. Finally, if you are cycling long distances for the first time, it is recommended to start with the section from Jingmei to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall on the Xindian River (approximately 20 kilometers, cycling time 1.5-2 hours), find your comfortable speed and rhythm, then gradually challenge more difficult routes.
