【台北植物園】Taipei Botanical Garden
When I was hanging out with my parents in Taipei, they suggested we stroll through the Taipei Botanical Garden after lunch — and if you've read anything else on here, you know my parents have a knack for finding the good stuff.
From the outside, the garden looked... alright. Plain. Nothing that screamed must-visit. But the second we stepped past the entrance, it opened up into something completely different — way bigger than I expected, and frankly, more interesting than any botanical garden I've wandered through before. There's history tucked between the plants, quiet little corners I didn't want to leave, and ponds that made me forget I was still in Taipei.
Fun fact: it's also Taiwan's very first botanical garden 🌿
Let's get into what makes it so special — plus a bit of history, nearby spots, and a few tips before you go!
brief history
Taipei Botanical Garden is like a living history book.
Established in 1896 during Japanese rule, this 8.2-hectare oasis is home to over 2,000 plant species. It’s a top spot for scientists and students to learn and discover. Hidden beneath the greenery is a secret from the past.
Approximately 4,500 years ago, an ancient lake in Taipei existed, making the area a desirable place to live. People settled there, leaving behind clues about their lives. That’s why the garden is also an important archaeological site.
You can even step back in time with two historic landmarks. The Herbarium (腊葉館), born in 1924, is Taiwan’s oldest.
And, the Guest House of Imperial Envoys (欽差行臺), built in 1889 during the Qing Dynasty, once hosted high-ranking visitors.
Right next to the Guest House of Imperial Envoys, you'll find Nanmon-cho 323 (南門町三二三).
During Japanese rule, this house served as a teahouse for visiting guests.
Abandoned for a time, it's now been beautifully restored by two internationally reformed architects, Kuo Chungrui (郭中端) and Horigome Kenji.
When you step inside, you can imagine yourself enjoying a cup of tea in this historic space, then wander out to admire the peaceful zen garden.
tours you might like
what’s nearby
know before you go!
🎟️ ADMISSION | Free!
☀️ BEST TIME TO VISIT | Mornings and evenings are usually less crowded.
🐾 PET POLICY | Not allowed
🚻 PUBLIC FACILITIES | You’ll find public restrooms and water fountains throughout the garden.
🪷 GARDEN ETIQUETTE | To keep the garden beautiful for everyone, please do not smoke, run, eat, make loud noises, or touch the monuments.
VISIT
HOURS
Monday - Sunday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
LOCATION
No. 53號, Nanhai Rd, Zhongzheng District,
Taipei City, Taiwan 100
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Taipei Botanical Garden: About Us
Taipei City Government: Nanmon-cho 323– The Reappearance of a Japanese Zen Garden
Taiwan Forestry Research Institute: Taipei Botanical Garden
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10272024 12:53
Last Updated: 06.17.2026
Need a nature break in Taipei? Daan Forest Park is the perfect escape — lush greenery, peaceful ponds, and plenty of wildlife make it a must-visit urban oasis! 🌿🦆