# Family Guide to Taiwan: Top 10 Things to Do with Kids

By [Your Name], Family Travel Asia

If you’re looking for a destination that checks every box for a family vacation—safe, clean, easy to navigate, packed with kid-friendly attractions, and bursting with delicious food—Taiwan should be at the top of your list. As a travel writer for Family Travel Asia, I’ve explored this incredible island with my own two children (ages 7 and 10), and I can tell you without hesitation: Taiwan is a dream for families.

From the bustling night markets of Taipei to the natural wonders of Hualien, from the cultural treasures of Tainan to the family-friendly parks of Taichung, Taiwan offers a perfect blend of urban adventure and outdoor exploration. Best of all, the country’s excellent high-speed rail network makes getting around with kids a breeze.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the top 10 things to do with kids in Taiwan, complete with specific prices, practical tips, and a suggested itinerary for a 5-7 day trip. Let’s dive in!

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Why Taiwan for Families?

Before we get into the top 10, let me address the question you might be asking: Why Taiwan?

First, Taiwan is incredibly safe. Violent crime is virtually non-existent, and the locals are famously friendly and helpful, especially toward families with children. You’ll see kids out and about at all hours, even at night markets, because the culture is so family-centric.

Second, the infrastructure is superb. High-speed trains, clean subways, and affordable taxis make getting around effortless. Most attractions are stroller-friendly, and you’ll find baby-changing facilities in almost every public space.

Third, the food. Taiwanese cuisine is a sensory explosion, and kids love it. From fluffy scallion pancakes to sweet bubble tea, from juicy dumplings to grilled corn on the cob—there’s something for even the pickiest eater.

Finally, the cost. Taiwan offers incredible value for money. A family of four can eat like kings for under $30 USD, and many attractions are either free or very cheap.

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Top 10 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Taiwan

1. Taipei Zoo & Maokong Gondola (Taipei)

Why kids love it: Giant pandas! The Taipei Zoo is one of the largest in Asia, and it’s home to the famous giant pandas, Yuan Yuan and Tuan Tuan, along with their cub, Yuan Zai. The zoo is also home to koalas, penguins, elephants, and a fantastic children’s zoo with petting areas. Entry fee: NT$60 per adult (about $2 USD); children under 6 are free. The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Maokong Gondola: Right next to the zoo, you can take the Maokong Gondola up into the hills for stunning views of Taipei. The gondola has glass-bottomed cabins (ask for the “Crystal Cabin”) that kids absolutely love. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes, and at the top, you’ll find tea houses, walking trails, and more great views. Gondola cost: NT$120 per adult one-way (about $4 USD); children under 6 are free. Practical tip: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and the afternoon heat. Bring water and snacks, as the zoo is huge and you’ll be walking for 3-4 hours. Strollers are available for rent at the entrance for NT$100. Where to stay nearby: Consider booking the Grand Hyatt Taipei (approx. $180-250 USD per night) via Booking.com for a luxurious stay close to the zoo and Taipei 101. For a budget option, the CityInn Hotel Taipei Station (approx. $80-120 USD per night) is clean, family-friendly, and near the main train station.

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2. Taipei 101 & Observatory (Taipei)

Why kids love it: Elevators that go super fast! Taipei 101 was the world’s tallest building for years, and the high-speed elevator ride to the 89th-floor observatory is a thrill in itself—it takes just 37 seconds. Once at the top, kids can look through giant telescopes, see the massive damper ball that keeps the building stable during earthquakes, and enjoy 360-degree views of Taipei. Entry fee: NT$600 per adult (about $20 USD); children under 6 are free. Family packages are available for NT$1,500 (about $50 USD) for two adults and two children. Kid-friendly menu: The food court in the Taipei 101 mall is a lifesaver for families. Try Din Tai Fung (famous for soup dumplings) or Kiki Restaurant (Taiwanese home cooking). Kids love the chocolate bubble waffles at Bubble Waffle on the ground floor. Practical tip: Book your tickets online in advance to skip the long queues. The observatory can get crowded on weekends, so try to visit on a weekday morning.

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3. Shilin Night Market (Taipei)

Why kids love it: The energy, the smells, the endless choices! Shilin is Taipei’s largest and most famous night market, and it’s a sensory playground for kids. They’ll love watching the street performers, playing carnival games, and—of course—eating. Kid-friendly eats:

- Scallion pancakes (NT$30-50) – crispy, flaky, and mild

- Grilled corn on the cob (NT$40-60) – brushed with soy sauce and butter

- Taiwanese sausages (NT$30-50) – sweet and savory

- Bubble tea (NT$40-60) – the original! Try the classic milk tea with tapioca pearls

- Fried chicken cutlet (NT$70-100) – huge, crispy, and kid-approved

Safety tip: Night markets can be crowded, so establish a meeting point with older kids and keep younger ones in a stroller or carrier. Hold hands in busy areas. Most vendors accept cash only, so bring small bills. Practical tip: Go around 6:00 PM to avoid the worst crowds. The market is open daily until midnight. Where to stay: The CitizenM Taipei North Gate (approx. $100-150 USD per night) is a stylish, family-friendly hotel near the market. Book via Booking.com for the best rates.

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4. National Palace Museum (Taipei)

Why kids love it: This isn’t just a museum—it’s a treasure hunt! The National Palace Museum houses one of the world’s greatest collections of Chinese art and artifacts, including the famous “jade cabbage” and “meat-shaped stone.” Kids can pick up a free activity sheet at the information desk and search for specific items throughout the museum. Entry fee: NT$350 per adult (about $12 USD); children under 18 are free. Audio guides are available for NT$150. Kid-friendly menu: The museum’s Silks Palace Restaurant serves a “National Palace Museum-themed” meal that includes miniature versions of the jade cabbage and meat-shaped stone made from food. Kids love it! Expect to pay around NT$400-600 per person. Practical tip: The museum is huge, so focus on the highlights with younger kids. The second floor has the most famous pieces. Allow 2-3 hours maximum.

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5. Taroko Gorge National Park (Hualien)

Why kids love it: This is nature at its most dramatic. Taroko Gorge is a marble-walled canyon with turquoise rivers, suspension bridges, and easy walking trails. Kids will feel like explorers as they walk through tunnels carved into the rock and cross the famous “Eternal Spring Shrine” bridge. Entry fee: Free! The park is open year-round, though some trails may close during typhoon season (July-September). Kid-friendly trails:

- Shakadang Trail – 1.5 km, flat, easy, follows a crystal-clear river

- Baiyang Trail – 2.1 km, easy, leads to a waterfall

- Lushui Trail – 1.1 km, easy, with great views

Practical tip: Rent a car or hire a driver for the day (approx. NT$3,000-4,000, about $100-130 USD). Public buses exist but are infrequent and can be crowded. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. Wear sturdy shoes. Where to stay in Hualien: The Silks Place Taroko (approx. $200-300 USD per night) is a luxury resort inside the park with a kids’ club, hot springs, and stunning views. For a budget option, Hualien Ocean Hotel (approx. $60-90 USD per night) is clean and family-friendly. Book via Booking.com.

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6. Rainbow Village (Taichung)

Why kids love it: This is a tiny, colorful village painted by a 98-year-old veteran named Grandpa Rainbow. Every surface is covered in bright, whimsical murals of animals, people, and flowers. Kids can take photos, explore the narrow alleyways, and meet Grandpa Rainbow himself (if he’s around). Entry fee: Free! Donations are welcome. Practical tip: The village is small—you can see everything in 30-45 minutes. Combine it with a visit to the nearby Carton King (a restaurant and craft shop made entirely from cardboard) or the Miyahara Ice Cream shop (famous for pineapple cakes and ice cream). Where to stay in Taichung: The Tempus Hotel Taichung (approx. $90-130 USD per night) is modern, clean, and has a great breakfast buffet. Book via Booking.com.

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7. Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village (Nantou, near Taichung)

Why kids love it: This is part theme park, part cultural village. Kids can ride roller coasters, watch aboriginal dance performances, and take a cable car over Sun Moon Lake. It’s a full-day adventure. Entry fee: NT$850 per adult (about $28 USD); children aged 6-12 are NT$750; children under 6 are free. The price includes all rides and shows. Kid-friendly menu: The park has several restaurants serving Taiwanese and Western food. Kids love the UFO-themed restaurant near the roller coasters. Practical tip: Go on a weekday to avoid long lines for rides. The park is a 40-minute drive from Taichung. You can also take a bus from Taichung Station.

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8. Anping Tree House & Fort Zeelandia (Tainan)

Why kids love it: Tainan is Taiwan’s oldest city, and its historical sites are fascinating for curious kids. The Anping Tree House is a former warehouse that has been taken over by the roots of a giant banyan tree—it’s like walking through a real-life jungle temple. Fort Zeelandia is a 17th-century Dutch fort with cannons, tunnels, and great views. Entry fee: NT$50 per adult (about $1.70 USD) for the Tree House; NT$70 per adult for Fort Zeelandia. Children under 6 are free. Practical tip: Tainan is hot and humid, so visit early in the morning or late afternoon. Bring hats and water. The two sites are a 10-minute walk apart. Where to stay in Tainan: The U.I.J Hotel & Hostel (approx. $70-100 USD per night) is trendy, family-friendly, and has a great rooftop terrace. Book via Booking.com.

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9. Beitou Hot Springs (Taipei)

Why kids love it: After a day of sightseeing, nothing beats a soak in a natural hot spring. Beitou is a hot spring district in northern Taipei, and many hotels offer private hot spring baths that families can rent by the hour. Kids love the warm, mineral-rich water. Entry fee: Public hot springs cost around NT$100-200 per adult. Private baths at hotels start at NT$500-1,000 per hour. Kid-friendly option: The Beitou Public Hot Spring (NT$100 per adult, free for children under 6) has a large pool with warm water and a cold plunge pool. It’s clean and well-maintained. Practical tip: Bring swimsuits and towels. Many hot springs require swim caps (available for purchase on-site). Avoid going on weekends when it’s crowded. Where to stay: The Grand View Resort Beitou (approx. $150-200 USD per night) has private hot spring baths in every room. Book via Booking.com.

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10. Yehliu Geopark (New Taipei City)

Why kids love it: This is like visiting another planet. Yehliu Geopark is a coastal area filled with strange, wind-carved rock formations, including the famous “Queen’s Head” (a rock that looks like a woman’s profile). Kids can climb on the rocks (carefully), explore tide pools, and watch waves crash against the shore. Entry fee: NT$120 per adult (about $4 USD); children under 6 are free. Practical tip: The park is very exposed, so bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat. The park is a 40-minute bus ride from Taipei.

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Practical Tips for Families

Transportation

Trains: Taiwan’s High-Speed Rail (HSR) is a game-changer for families. It’s clean, fast, and punctual. From Taipei to Taichung takes just 50 minutes; to Tainan, 90 minutes. Children under 6 ride free if they don’t occupy a seat. Book tickets online in