Summer in Taipei can be exciting, colorful, and full of energy, but it can also feel extremely hot and humid. If you are visiting Taiwan in June, July, August, or September, spending a full day walking under the city sun may not always be the most comfortable plan. Read more of Taipei travel guide.
The good news is that some of the best waterfalls near Taipei are easy to visit as a day trip. Within one to two hours from Taipei, travelers can enjoy forest trails, mountain scenery, railway villages, river views, old streets, hot springs, and refreshing waterfall landscapes.
This guide introduces 10 beautiful waterfalls near Taipei, including famous places like Shifen Waterfall and Wulai Waterfall, as well as quieter local spots along the Pingxi Line and Yangmingshan area. Whether you are a first-time visitor, a family traveler, a photographer, a hiker, or someone who simply wants to escape the summer heat, there is a waterfall route near Taipei that can fit your travel style.
If you want to combine waterfalls, Jiufen, Shifen, Pingxi, and Yehliu in one smooth private day trip, our Yehliu Jiufen Pingxi Private Day Tour is one of the easiest ways to explore northern Taiwan without worrying about train transfers, bus schedules, or transportation timing.
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💁🏻 Quick Guide: Which Waterfall Near Taipei Should You Visit?
If this is your first time visiting Taipei, Shifen Waterfall is usually the best choice. It is famous, scenic, easy to understand, and can be combined with Shifen Old Street, sky lanterns, and Jiufen.
If you want hot springs and indigenous culture, Wulai Waterfall is a great choice. It is one of the most popular waterfall day trips from Taipei and works well for travelers who want both nature and culture.
If you enjoy hiking, Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail is one of the best waterfall hikes near Taipei. It includes several waterfalls and a more natural forest atmosphere.
If you want a quieter Pingxi Line experience, Wanggu Waterfall and Lingjiao Waterfall are good options. They are less crowded than Shifen and can be added to a Pingxi day trip.
If you prefer Yangmingshan, Juansi Waterfall, Xiao Yin Tan Waterfall, and Qingshan Waterfall offer a different mountain-and-forest experience near Taipei.
1. Shifen Waterfall: The Most Famous Waterfall Near Taipei
If you are searching for waterfalls near Taipei, Shifen Waterfall is probably the first place you should know. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in northern Taiwan and a popular stop on many Taipei day trips.
Shifen Waterfall is wide, powerful, and photogenic. The walking route includes bridges, river views, viewing platforms, and photo spots, making it a great choice for first-time visitors, families, couples, and photographers.
The best part is that Shifen Waterfall can be easily combined with Shifen Old Street, where travelers can enjoy railway scenery, local snacks, and the famous sky lantern experience. Many visitors also continue to Jiufen Old Street in the afternoon or evening for mountain views, teahouses, red lanterns, and street food.
For more information about this area, you can read our Shifen Old Street and Shifen Waterfall guide.
Best Route for Shifen Waterfall
A classic route is:
Taipei → Yehliu Geopark → Jiufen Old Street → Shifen Waterfall → Shifen Old Street → Taipei
This route is popular because it combines coastal scenery, mountain villages, waterfalls, railway culture, and old street food in one day. However, using public transportation for all these places can be time-consuming. A private tour is usually much easier if you want to visit several northern Taiwan highlights in one day.
If you want a comfortable private route with hotel pickup and flexible timing, consider our Yehliu Jiufen Pingxi Private Day Tour.
2. Wulai Waterfall: Waterfall, Hot Springs & Indigenous Culture
Wulai Waterfall is another must-visit waterfall near Taipei. Located in New Taipei City, Wulai is famous for its waterfall, hot spring culture, mountain scenery, and indigenous Atayal heritage.
Compared with Shifen, Wulai has a more relaxed mountain-town atmosphere. Travelers can walk around Wulai Old Street, enjoy local snacks, see the waterfall, learn about indigenous culture, and enjoy hot spring scenery in the area.
Wulai Waterfall is a good choice for travelers who want a slower, more cultural nature day trip from Taipei. It is also suitable for couples and families who do not want a difficult hike but still want beautiful mountain views.
Why Visit Wulai Waterfall?
Wulai is not only about the waterfall. It is a complete day trip destination. You can combine nature, food, culture, and hot spring atmosphere in one route.
A suggested route is:
Taipei → Wulai Old Street → Wulai Waterfall → Atayal cultural area → Hot spring area → Taipei
If you want a relaxing day outside the city, Wulai is a strong option. For travelers who want a private experience, our Wulai Day Tour from Taipei is the best tour.
3. Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail: Best Waterfall Hike Near Taipei
Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail is one of the best choices for travelers who want a real waterfall hike near Taipei. Instead of seeing only one waterfall, this trail takes you through forest paths and several waterfall viewpoints.
The main waterfalls in the Sandiaoling area include Hegu Waterfall, Motian Waterfall, and Pipa Cave Waterfall. The scenery is green, natural, and peaceful, making it a great choice for active travelers, hikers, photographers, and visitors who have already seen Shifen before.
This route feels more adventurous than Shifen Waterfall or Wulai Waterfall. The trail may include stairs, uneven ground, wet sections, and muddy paths after rain, so it is better for travelers who are comfortable walking outdoors.
Who Should Visit Sandiaoling?
Sandiaoling is best for active travelers who want nature, hiking, and waterfall scenery. It is not the best option for travelers with limited mobility, young children who get tired easily, or anyone who prefers very easy walking routes.
If you are planning a summer visit, start early in the day and avoid hiking after heavy rain or typhoons. Wear proper walking shoes, bring water, and be prepared for humid weather.
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4. Wanggu Waterfall: A Quiet Pingxi Line Waterfall
Wanggu Waterfall is a quieter waterfall near Taipei located along the Pingxi Line. It is close to Wanggu Station, a small railway stop surrounded by hills, trees, and a peaceful countryside atmosphere.
Compared with Shifen Waterfall, Wanggu Waterfall is smaller and less famous. However, that is exactly why many travelers enjoy it. It feels more local, less commercial, and more relaxing.
This is a good waterfall stop for travelers who like slow travel, railway scenery, photography, and quiet places away from large tour groups.
How to Combine Wanggu Waterfall
Wanggu Waterfall can be combined with Lingjiao Waterfall, Shifen Waterfall, Shifen Old Street, and Pingxi Old Street.
A suggested route is:
Taipei → Wanggu Waterfall → Lingjiao Waterfall → Shifen Waterfall → Shifen Old Street → Taipei
If you want to focus on Jiufen and Pingxi rather than Yehliu, you can use our Private Jiufen and Pingxi Day Tour as the main tour option for this route.
@rd_shadow “Rest your heart in nature's warm, and the deepest love of life will form.” 🍃🌳⛰️🏡📍Wanggu Waterfall 望古瀑布 … Wanggu Waterfall 望古瀑布 is small hidden waterfall with a green lush forest and beautiful surrounding scenery near Wanggu Train Station in Pingxi District, New Taipei City. … #nature #naturelover #waterfall #healing #pingxi #wangguwaterfall #望古瀑布 ♬ 오리지널 사운드 – 나이스 뮤직 투데이 – nmtmag.
5. Lingjiao Waterfall: Easy Hidden Waterfall Near Taipei
Lingjiao Waterfall, sometimes written as Linjiao Waterfall, is another easy waterfall stop on the Pingxi Line. It is close to Lingjiao Station and can be visited without a long hike.
This waterfall is less crowded than Shifen, making it a nice choice for travelers who want a short and simple nature stop. It can be added to a Pingxi Line itinerary with Wanggu, Shifen, and Pingxi Old Street.
Lingjiao Waterfall is especially useful as a flexible stop during a private tour. If Shifen is too crowded or if travelers want to see a quieter waterfall nearby, Lingjiao can be a good alternative.
Suggested Pingxi Waterfall Route
Taipei → Lingjiao Waterfall → Wanggu Waterfall → Shifen Waterfall → Shifen Old Street → Taipei
If travelers also want to visit Jiufen, the route can be adjusted:
Taipei → Jiufen Old Street → Lingjiao Waterfall → Shifen Waterfall → Shifen Old Street → Taipei
You may also like Private Jiufen and Pingxi Day Tour.
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6. Qingshan Waterfall: A Yangmingshan Nature Escape
Qingshan Waterfall is a refreshing option for travelers who want to visit waterfalls near Taipei but prefer the Yangmingshan area instead of Pingxi or Jiufen.
The atmosphere here is different from Shifen or Wulai. Instead of railway villages or old streets, Qingshan Waterfall offers forest scenery, mountain air, and a quieter side of northern Taiwan.
This waterfall is a good choice for travelers who enjoy nature but do not want an extremely difficult hike. The surrounding greenery makes it especially pleasant during summer.
How to Combine Qingshan Waterfall
A good route is:
Taipei → Qingshan Waterfall → Yangmingshan scenic spots → Beitou Thermal Valley → Taipei
This type of route is suitable for travelers who want nature, mountain scenery, and hot spring culture in one day.
7. Juansi Waterfall: A Peaceful Yangmingshan Waterfall Trail
Juansi Waterfall is another beautiful waterfall in the Yangmingshan area. It is a good option for travelers who want a peaceful forest walk without going too far from Taipei.
The trail has a quiet, green, and relaxing atmosphere. It is a nice choice for visitors who want to experience Yangmingshan beyond the usual viewpoints and flower fields.
Juansi Waterfall is best for travelers who enjoy light hiking and do not mind forest paths. Like many waterfall routes, it can be slippery after rain, so proper shoes are recommended.
Best For
Juansi Waterfall is best for nature lovers, photographers, couples, and travelers who want a calm forest escape near Taipei.
It can be combined with other Yangmingshan attractions or Beitou hot spring area for a full-day private tour.
For a comfortable route, add it to a customized version of our Yangmingshan and Beitou Private Day Tour.
8. Xiao Yin Tan Waterfall: A Short Scenic Stop in Yangmingshan
Xiao Yin Tan Waterfall (小隱潭瀑布) is a smaller waterfall option in the Yangmingshan area. It may not be as dramatic as Shifen Waterfall or Wulai Waterfall, but it works well as a short scenic stop for travelers who want an easy nature break.
This waterfall is best treated as a bonus stop rather than the main destination of the day. It is suitable for travelers who already plan to visit Yangmingshan and want to add a quick waterfall view to the route.
When to Visit Xiao Yin Tan Waterfall
Visit Xiao Yin Tan if you are already exploring Yangmingshan and want a short, refreshing stop.
A suggested route is:
Taipei → Yangmingshan scenic drive → Xiao Yin Tan Waterfall → Beitou Thermal Valley → Taipei
This route is especially good for travelers who want a less crowded Taipei nature day trip.
9. Yuanjue Waterfall: Easy Taipei City Waterfall for Families
Yuanjue Waterfall is a good option for travelers who want an easier waterfall experience without going too far from Taipei City. Located in the Neihu area, it is one of the more accessible waterfall choices for visitors who prefer a shorter trip.
The trail is generally easier than hiking routes like Sandiaoling, making it a good option for families, casual walkers, and travelers who want a quick green escape from the city.
Yuanjue Waterfall is not as famous as Shifen or Wulai, but it is useful for travelers who want to see a waterfall without spending a full day outside Taipei.
Best For
Yuanjue Waterfall is best for families, casual travelers, and visitors who want an easy nature walk near Taipei.
It can be combined with Neihu, Dahu Park, or other Taipei city attractions. If travelers want a flexible private route, use our Custom Taipei Private Tour to create a lighter Taipei nature itinerary.
10. Golden Waterfall: Best Photo Stop Near Jiufen
Golden Waterfall is located near Jiufen and Jinguashi. It is not a swimming waterfall, but it is one of the most unique waterfall photo stops near Taipei because of its golden-colored rocks and mountain mining history.
This waterfall is best for travelers who are already visiting Jiufen, Jinguashi, or the northeast coast. It is a quick scenic stop rather than a hiking destination.
Golden Waterfall is especially popular with photographers because the color of the rocks, the mountain background, and the nearby coastal scenery create a very different look from other waterfalls near Taipei.
How to Combine Golden Waterfall
A strong route is:
Taipei → Yehliu Geopark → Golden Waterfall → Jiufen Old Street → Shifen Waterfall → Shifen Old Street → Taipei
This is a very full day, so it works best with a private tour like Yehliu Jiufen Pingxi Private Day Tour, and our tours can be customized for you.
Best Waterfalls Near Taipei by Travel Style
Best waterfall near Taipei for first-time visitors: Shifen Waterfall
Best waterfall near Taipei for families: Shifen Waterfall or Yuanjue Waterfall
Best waterfall near Taipei for hiking: Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail
Best waterfall near Taipei for hot springs: Wulai Waterfall
Best waterfall near Taipei for photography: Shifen Waterfall or Golden Waterfall
Best quiet waterfall near Taipei: Wanggu Waterfall or Lingjiao Waterfall
Best Yangmingshan waterfall route: Juansi Waterfall, Xiao Yin Tan Waterfall, or Qingshan Waterfall
Best private day tour route: Yehliu, Jiufen, Shifen Waterfall, and Shifen Old Street
Best Waterfall Day Trip from Taipei for First-Time Visitors
For most first-time visitors, the best waterfall day trip from Taipei is:
Taipei → Yehliu Geopark → Jiufen Old Street → Shifen Waterfall → Shifen Old Street → Taipei
This route gives travelers a strong mix of northern Taiwan highlights. You can see coastal rock formations, old mountain towns, railway culture, sky lanterns, and one of the most famous waterfalls near Taipei in a single day.
Because these attractions are spread across different areas, transportation can be difficult if you try to do everything by train and bus. A private tour helps you save time and makes the route more comfortable.
For this route, we recommend our Yehliu Jiufen Pingxi Private Day Tour.
Best Waterfall Route for Families
For families, we usually recommend Shifen Waterfall because it is scenic, famous, and easier to visit than many hidden waterfall trails. Families can also enjoy Shifen Old Street, local snacks, and the sky lantern experience.
A family-friendly route can be:
Taipei hotel pickup → Shifen Waterfall → Shifen Old Street → Local lunch → Jiufen Old Street → Taipei hotel drop-off
If you are traveling with young children, senior travelers, or a multi-generation family, it is better not to make the day too packed. A private tour allows your group to slow down, skip difficult walking routes, and adjust the schedule based on energy level and weather.
For a flexible family route, use the Custom Taipei Private Tour.
Best Waterfall Route for Hikers
For hikers, Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail is the best choice. It offers a more natural experience and several waterfall viewpoints along the trail.
A hiking-focused route can be:
Taipei → Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail → Houtong or Pingxi Line stop → Local lunch → Taipei
This route is better for travelers who enjoy walking and outdoor scenery. It is not recommended after heavy rain or during unstable weather conditions.
You may also like:
“Taiwan Hiking: My Misadventures on the Top 10 Mountains in Taiwan.”
@ivy.luvv A nice nature spot accessible by MRT!🍃 Located in Neihu district, these 2 spots are perfect for 1 day exploration✨ 📍Yuanjue Falls 📍Mt. Long chuan yan The trail from the waterfall to Mt. Longchuanyan is pretty steep, make sure to wear proper shoes🥾 #hiking #taipei #taipei_taiwan #爬山 #waterfall #龍船岩 #圓覺瀑布 #neihudistrict #台北 ♬ as it was full speed audio – jem❤️🔥
Best Waterfall Route for Yangmingshan Lovers
If travelers prefer mountain scenery and hot spring culture, Yangmingshan is a good direction to choose.
A suggested route is:
Taipei → Juansi Waterfall or Qingshan Waterfall → Yangmingshan scenic drive → Beitou Thermal Valley → Taipei
This route is great for travelers who want a softer nature day without visiting the busy Jiufen and Shifen area.
For this route, use our Yangmingshan and Beitou Private Day Tour.
Best Time to Visit Waterfalls Near Taipei
The best time to visit waterfalls near Taipei is usually in the morning. Summer afternoons in northern Taiwan can bring sudden rain, thunderstorms, or very humid weather, so starting early gives you more flexibility.
Spring and early summer often offer good water flow, while autumn usually brings more comfortable walking weather. During typhoon season, always check the weather forecast and official notices before visiting waterfall trails.
If the weather is unstable, it is better to choose easier routes such as Shifen Waterfall, Wulai, or Yuanjue instead of more natural hiking trails.
What to Bring for a Taipei Waterfall Day Trip
Bring comfortable walking shoes, drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent, a small towel, and a light rain jacket. Even if the trail is short, waterfall areas can be slippery and humid.
Avoid smooth-bottom sandals on forest trails. If you plan to visit Sandiaoling, Juansi, Qingshan, or any hiking route, wear shoes with better grip.
For summer tours, light clothing is recommended, but bring a thin outer layer if you are visiting mountain areas or hot spring towns.
Safety Tips for Visiting Waterfalls Near Taipei
Waterfalls near Taipei are beautiful, but travelers should still be careful, especially in summer.
● Go earlier in the day when the weather is usually cooler.
● Avoid waterfall trails after heavy rain, typhoons, or official weather warnings.
● Do not swim under waterfalls unless the area is clearly designated as safe.
● Do not stand on slippery rocks for photos.
● Wear shoes with good grip.
● Bring enough drinking water.
● Check whether the route is suitable for children or senior travelers.
● Choose easier routes if you are traveling with family or guests who prefer light walking.
If you are not familiar with the route, a private tour can help you choose safer and more comfortable stops based on the season and weather.
Can You Visit Waterfalls Near Taipei Without a Car?
Yes, some waterfalls near Taipei can be reached by public transportation, especially places along the Pingxi Line such as Shifen, Wanggu, Lingjiao, and Sandiaoling.
However, public transportation may require transfers, waiting time, and more walking. If you want to combine several places in one day, such as Yehliu, Jiufen, Shifen Waterfall, and Shifen Old Street, a private tour is usually much easier.
For travelers with limited time, children, senior family members, or luggage, private transportation can make the day smoother and more comfortable.
Why Book a Private Waterfall Day Tour from Taipei?
A private tour is useful when you want to visit more than one place in a day. Many waterfalls near Taipei are located in mountain or railway areas, and public transportation can take longer than expected.
With a private driver-guide, you can adjust the route based on weather, traffic, walking ability, and personal interests. You can also combine waterfalls with old streets, hot springs, coastal views, local food, or cultural stops.
Popular private waterfall day tour ideas include:
Yehliu → Jiufen → Shifen Waterfall → Shifen Old Street
Wulai Old Street → Wulai Waterfall → Hot spring area
Yangmingshan → Waterfall stop → Beitou Thermal Valley
Pingxi Line → Wanggu → Lingjiao → Shifen Waterfall
For a fully flexible route, you can book our Custom Taipei Private Tour and let our local team design a waterfall-focused itinerary based on your travel style.
FAQ: Waterfalls Near Taipei
What is the best waterfall near Taipei for first-time visitors?
Shifen Waterfall is the best waterfall near Taipei for most first-time visitors. It is famous, scenic, photogenic, and easy to combine with Shifen Old Street, Jiufen, and Pingxi.
Is Wulai Waterfall worth visiting from Taipei?
Yes. Wulai Waterfall is worth visiting if you want a relaxing day trip with mountain scenery, hot spring atmosphere, indigenous culture, and local food. It is a good alternative to the Jiufen and Shifen route.
Can I visit Shifen Waterfall and Jiufen in one day?
Yes. Shifen Waterfall and Jiufen are often combined in one day trip from Taipei. Many travelers also add Yehliu Geopark or Shifen Old Street. For the smoothest route, consider the Yehliu Jiufen Pingxi Private Day Tour or the Private Jiufen and Pingxi Day Tour.
What waterfall near Taipei is best for hiking?
Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail is one of the best waterfall hikes near Taipei. It includes several waterfall viewpoints and a more natural forest trail.
What waterfall near Taipei is easiest for families?
Shifen Waterfall and Yuanjue Waterfall are good choices for families. Shifen is better for first-time visitors who want a famous attraction, while Yuanjue is a lighter option closer to Taipei City.
Can I swim at waterfalls near Taipei?
Swimming is not recommended at many waterfalls near Taipei unless the area is clearly designated as safe. Water levels, currents, hidden rocks, and slippery surfaces can be dangerous.
What should I wear for a Taipei waterfall day trip?
Wear breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light rain jacket, especially in summer.
When is the best time to visit waterfalls near Taipei?
Morning is usually the best time to visit waterfalls near Taipei. The weather is cooler, trails are often less crowded, and you have more flexibility if afternoon rain arrives.
Are waterfalls near Taipei good for summer travel?
Yes. Waterfalls near Taipei are great for summer travel because they offer cooler mountain air, forest scenery, and a refreshing break from the city. However, travelers should still check the weather and avoid waterfall trails after heavy rain or typhoons.
Which private tour is best for visiting waterfalls near Taipei?
For first-time visitors, the Yehliu Jiufen Pingxi Private Day Tour is the best choice because it can include Shifen Waterfall, Shifen Old Street, Jiufen, and Yehliu. For hot spring and mountain scenery, choose the Wulai Day Tour from Taipei. For Yangmingshan scenery, choose the Yangmingshan and Beitou Private Day Tour.
📣 Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Enjoy Waterfalls Near Taipei
The best waterfalls near Taipei are not only about the waterfalls themselves. They are about the full experience: mountain scenery, railway villages, old streets, local snacks, forest air, hot spring culture, and the feeling of escaping the city heat without traveling too far.
For the most classic route, choose Shifen Waterfall with Jiufen and Pingxi.
For a hot spring and cultural route, choose Wulai Waterfall.
For a hiking route, choose Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail.
For a quieter Pingxi Line experience, choose Wanggu Waterfall or Lingjiao Waterfall.
For a Yangmingshan nature escape, choose Juansi Waterfall, Xiao Yin Tan Waterfall, or Qingshan Waterfall.
Justaiwantour can help you design a private waterfall day trip from Taipei based on your travel style, walking ability, season, and interests. Whether you want a family-friendly route, a photography-focused trip, or a flexible private day tour, our local team can help make your Taiwan trip smooth and comfortable.
🤓 Related Reading
● Shifen Old Street and Shifen Waterfall Guide