An oasis in the city, this 8-hectare park has well-stocked greenhouses, literature- and Chinese-zodiac-themed gardens, a lotus pond and myriad lanes where you can lose yourself in quiet contemplation. The gardens were established by the Japanese in 1921 and are part of a larger neighborhood that maintains an old Taipei feel. Within the park, look for the Qing administrative office, built in 1888, and a red-brick herbarium from 1924 (both only open 9.30am to 4pm Wednesday to Sunday).
This tranquil garden's top draw is its lotus pond, which, come summer, is a gorgeous blanket of green and blushing pink. Paths and wooded walkways crisscross the many themed gardens and woodlands, offering ample space for some quiet contemplation. This is a top spot for locals, usually retirees armed with zoom lenses taking close-ups of the birds. The gardens were established by the Japanese in 1921, and visitors can enjoy the numerous heritage buildings and the greenhouse among the maze of lanes (note these last two these are closed on Mondays). The gardens make for a pleasant hour’s stroll and pair nicely with a visit to the nearby National 2-28 Memorial Museum. Helpful maps are around in case you get lost.