Guandu Nature Park
Located where the Keelung and Tamsui Rivers meet, Guandu Nature Park has become a favorite nature retreat for Taipei residents and visitors since its founding in 2001. Often referred to as Taipei’s backyard, the sprawling 141-acre (57-hectare park is home to wetland and marsh habitats, and is popular among birdwatchers.
The basics
Though Guandu Nature Park—just northwest of central Taipei—is accessible via the MRT, it feels like a world away from the Taiwanese capital’s frenetic pace. With its lush mangrove, marsh, and wetland habitats, the park is home to hundreds of plant and animal species. Birders will be excited to spot kingfishers, sacred ibis, egrets, herons, and other local and migratory species. A visitor center, variety of walking trails, and birdwatching cabins are all hosted on site.
Given its accessibility via public transportation, Guandu Nature Park is a popular spot for visitors, and it’s easy to plan your own, independent sightseeing itinerary.
Things to know before you go
- Guandu Nature Park is barrier-free and offers ramps, accessible toilets, and other facilities aimed at visitors with limited mobility.
- Tours of the facilities are held four times daily, on weekends.
- If you’re feeling hungry, head to the visitor center’s cafe, open from morning until early evening on weekdays (and a little later on weekends and holidays).
- Pick up nature-themed souvenirs at the on-site gift shop.
- Children under six years of age get free admission to the park.
How to get there
To reach Guandu Nature Park via public transport, take the MRT Red Line to Guandu Station; after that, walk to the park (roughly 10 minutes) or transfer to bus R35 or S23; alternatively, travel to the park via bus 302. There is also a YouBike bike sharing station at the nature park.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Guandu Nature Park is open every day except Monday, generally from 9am–5pm, although hours can vary with the seasons. The park is particularly busy on weekends during the summer months; arrive early or visit during the weekday for a more tranquil experience.
Annual Festivals at Guandu Nature Park
Guandu Nature Park hosts several major events every year. The highlight is the Guandu International Nature Art Festival. Held every November and December, the event sees themed artworks by a variety of international artists installed in situ. The Taipei International Birdwatching Fair, held every October, is also a great time to visit and sees amateur and experienced birdwatchers alike flock to the nature reserve.
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