Autumn in Taipei unfolds like the gentlest chapter of light and shadow. As morning sunlight graces the windows of ILLUME TAIPEI, it marks the perfect time to begin. Departing from Songshan, we’ve curated five scenic routes—leaf-peeping, picnicking, and cycling—for a poetic and refreshing Taipei hotel autumn foliage itinerary.
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Songshan Cultural and Creative Park|Autumn Whispers Amid Historic Architecture
Stroll along the lakeside path where fallen leaves dance in the wind, and the calm rhythm of historic architecture blends with surrounding greenery. Though not known for vivid maples, the park exudes a quiet autumn charm that flows gently with the shifting light and shadow. In the afternoon, sunlight spills over the ecological pond. Spread a blanket on the grass and ease into a relaxed picnic moment.

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We recommend Beryl & Co., a charming teahouse within the park that values the land and tea culture. It specializes in Taiwanese whole-leaf teas blended with herbs and florals—each cup a gentle note in life’s rhythm.

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How to Get There: From ILLUME TAIPEI, take the Chengde Express Bus from Nanjing–Dunhua intersection to the Taipei Motor Vehicle Office. Walk about 8 minutes to reach the park.
Daan Forest Park|Autumn Steps in a Symphony of Green
This urban oasis is home to abundant Formosan sweet gums and ginkgo trees. Come autumn and winter, their golden and crimson foliage intertwines with the park’s lush greenery and reflective waters. Wide lawns invite you to lay down a blanket with loved ones and feel the gentle autumn breeze. The well-designed cycling paths offer a tranquil encounter with fall—whether you walk or ride.

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We recommend NOON Taipei, tucked away in the lanes of Rui’an Street. This concept café merges “NO” and “ON” into a three-stage tasting experience—from pure brews to creative infusions—making it a sensory gallery for coffee lovers.

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How to Get There: Take the MRT to Daan Forest Park Station. By car it takes about 15 minutes; by Bus 254, around 25 minutes.
Zhongshan North Road|Unexpected Autumn Foliage in the City
As autumn deepens, Formosan sweet gums along Zhongshan North Road turn crimson—outside Taipei Fine Arts Museum (Section 3), near Shilin Residence (Section 5), and beside Fulin Bridge (Section 6). Even Miramar in Dazhi gets touched by fall’s palette.
Chengde and Zhishan Roads form a maple-lined route that transitions from urban Taipei into the hills—a gradient of colors mirroring the dialogue between city and nature. The maples are not far—they bloom right around the corner. A stroll down familiar streets might lead you to an unexpected autumn spectacle.

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Cap off your urban foliage walk with comforting bites from Shilin Night Market or the vibrant dining scene around Dazhi.

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How to Get There: From ILLUME TAIPEI, take the MRT to Yuanshan or Jiantan Station, then walk or transfer to a bus to reach each foliage spot. For Dazhi, ride to Jiannan Road Station. Rent a YouBike nearby for a leisurely ride.
Yangmingshan Taipei Aowanda|Dual-Season Maple Views in the Mountains
Taipei Aowanda is a hidden gem within Yangmingshan, where European-style spires rise among fiery maples. Green maples blaze red in fall and winter, while Japanese maples ignite the grounds with scarlet in spring.

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In the afternoon, settle into a Japanese-style cabin, sip tea, chat with friends, and let the mountain views sweep you into serenity. Don’t miss Aowanda Garden Café, known for wholesome vegetarian fare. Their hot pot sets are hearty and nourishing, and the maple-themed fried snacks and bento boxes offer a warm, comforting meal mid-journey.

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How to Get There: Take the MRT to Jiantan Station, then transfer to Bus 303 and alight at Xiaguoxi Stop. Walk 5 minutes to reach the site. Driving takes about 40 minutes.
Gongbeidian Trail (Xizhi, New Taipei)|Tranquility Woven with Maples and Heritage
Peak foliage arrives from late November to December, making this a beloved hidden gem for photographers and contemplative travelers alike. Fiery maples pair harmoniously with stone lanterns and twin arch bridges along the path from the main hall to the hillside, creating a scene of poetic beauty. Crossing the bridge, you’re flanked by majestic mountain views on one side and blazing red foliage on the other—like walking through a serene painting.

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We recommend exploring Xizhi Old Street, where you’ll find the nostalgic “Xizhi Red Tortoise Cake” shop and the popular “Just Donut.” Their donuts are crispy yet chewy, with a variety of flavors—each bite like autumn’s gentle afternoon light.

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How to Get There: Best accessed by car; approximately 35 minutes from ILLUME TAIPEI.
Let’s write our own Taipei Hotel autumn foliage itinerary in this season of golden light.
From ILLUME TAIPEI, every journey begins with the gentleness of dawn, revealing a different side of the city. These five landscapes are autumn’s five dialects—a journey that starts in the familiar and ends in surprise.
Alive With Light. Illuminating every departure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: Absolutely. ILLUME TAIPEI’s Premier Family Room is spacious and child-friendly, located near the cultural park and riverside—perfect for a trip with little ones. For more ideas, check out our Family Stay Guide.
A: From hidden alleyways and vintage homes to cozy cafés and corner leaves—Taipei is full of surprises. Start from ILLUME and follow our City Walk Guide to explore it step by step.
A: Absolutely! Try a half-day cycling trip from ILLUME to spots like Daan Forest Park, Zhongshan North Road, or the Rainbow Riverside. Find maps and tips in our Cycling Mini Itinerary.