Tianyuan Palace

Introducing Tianyuan Palace

Tamsui Tianyuan Temple is a temple located in Shuiyuanli, Tamsui Township, Taipei County. Shuiyuanli is located on Highway 101 from Tamsui via Beixinzhuang to Sanzhi, only four kilometers away from Tamsui Township.

Tianyuan Temple is located next to the highway, with the Tamsui hilly plateau in front and the steep Miantian volcano behind. There are also undulating hills nearby. There is a mountain spring pavilion in Tianyuan Temple. The pavilion is built on the east side of the temple. There are eight bronze faucets on both sides. Clear mountain spring water flows out from the dragon's mouth continuously. Visitors can rest here and get water for drinking.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Tianyuan Palace

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Tianyuan Palace is an important cultural and religious site in Taipei, known for its beautiful architecture and its role in Taoist practices. It is a place of worship and a spiritual retreat, attracting visitors who wish to experience the tranquility and cultural heritage of Taiwan.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Tianyuan Palace is located in the Beitou district of Taipei. You can take the Taipei MRT Red Line to Beitou Station and then transfer to a bus or taxi for a short ride to the palace. Alternatively, you can take a 20-minute walk from the station.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Tianyuan Palace is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid large crowds. Weekend afternoons are generally busier.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance is free for most areas, but there may be small fees for specific events or guided tours. Tickets can be bought onsite or booked in advance for special events through the official website.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended for special events or festivals, particularly during peak tourist seasons. For regular visits, no advance booking is required.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore Tianyuan Palace in about 1-2 hours. This includes visiting the temple, walking through the gardens, and soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the stunning architecture of the temple, the tranquil garden, and the beautiful surrounding natural landscape. The view of the temple from the surrounding hill offers fantastic photo opportunities.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English services. Audio guides in multiple languages are also available for rent at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the top of the temple steps, where you can capture the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and gardens. The front of the temple is also great for photos, with its iconic design as the backdrop.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main temple area, then take a walk through the gardens. End your visit with a hike up the nearby hill for a panoramic view of the area and a peaceful retreat.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typically available, but special cultural and religious events are held at the temple throughout the year, particularly during major festivals like Chinese New Year.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The palace can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially during religious festivals. For a quieter visit, go early on weekdays, particularly in the morning.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The site has clean toilet facilities and rest areas for visitors. There are no food stalls directly inside the palace, but you can find local restaurants and cafes nearby. There is a small shop selling religious items and souvenirs at the entrance.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Tianyuan Palace is accessible for elderly visitors, though there are some steps and slopes. For disabled visitors, accessibility might be limited in some areas, but a wheelchair-accessible path is available to the main temple.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Credit cards are also accepted for larger purchases, but it’s advisable to have some cash for smaller transactions and donations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants in the nearby Beitou area, offering traditional Taiwanese dishes and tea. Beitou also has several cafes for a relaxing break after your visit.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at many local restaurants around Beitou. Vegan and halal food might be more limited but can be found in specialty restaurants within the district.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located in Beitou, including the luxurious Grand View Resort Beitou and the more budget-friendly Beitou Hot Spring Resort. These offer easy access to the Tianyuan Palace and the surrounding attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Beitou Hot Springs, Beitou Hot Springs Museum, and Yangmingshan National Park. These can be combined in a single day trip for a relaxing and scenic experience.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available at the entrance, selling religious items, incense, postcards, and small trinkets. Traditional Taiwanese tea sets and local handicrafts are also popular souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Tianyuan Palace, you can take a taxi or the MRT from Beitou Station to continue your journey. Beitou is well-connected to the rest of Taipei, so public transportation is an easy and convenient option for further exploration.