jefegold

Hi all
I also have a long layover in Taipei coming up soon. The weather reports are for 15 degrees celcius and rain (probably light rain and overcast for both Taipei and Jiufen). I arrive at 530am and my flight out is at 730pm (so I figure I will miss the night markets).
I think Jiufen looks like a truly unique place and worth spending the entire morning there despite the distance. Is it worth going in the rain?
My preference in Taipei is to walk around the neighborhoods and get a feel for the smaller and some larger streets, maybe in Da'an, Ximan, Dihua Street, or the small streets around Yongkang park (east of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial). I'd love some recommendations!!!
Thanks
Jeff

crellston

Jiufen is unique but it is a long way from the airport, around 2.5 hours. The rain wouldn't bother me, indeed it will likely be a major relief from the heat and humidity! You can always grab a cheap umbrella if you want. The transit system is quick , efficient and spotless and you will get to see something of Taipei and some countryside from the train window.

The night markets are amazing as is the food in them but wont be running before you have to head back to the airport. The streets around streets around Yongkang park might be good combined with a visit to the Chiang Kai Shek hall some photos of our time in Taipei @ https://accidentalnomads.com/2017/07...rip-to-taipei/ . After a long flight I wouldn't bother with museums but a visit to Taipei 101 might be nice or a trip up on the Maokong cable car to the tea areas would provide some amazing views. Baoan and Confucious Temples are pretty special and may also provide the urban insight you seek (there are night markets there too but not sure what is going on during the day.