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About Wulai Old Street
Wulai Old Street (烏來老街) is a picturesque mountain village nestled in the northern reaches of New Taipei City's southernmost district. Famous for its natural geothermal sodium bicarbonate hot springs, stunning emerald river gorges, and rich Atayal indigenous heritage, Wulai offers a peaceful escape from the concrete energy of downtown Taipei.
The main pedestrian thoroughfare of Wulai Old Street runs parallel to the pristine Nanshi River. Lined with wooden storefronts, traditional hot spring bathhouses, and stalls serving authentic aboriginal cuisine, the area provides a sensory blend of mountain air, geothermal steam, and unique Taiwanese flavors. Whether you are seeking a relaxing hot spring soak or looking to learn about Taiwan's indigenous history, Wulai Old Street is a rewarding day-trip destination.
History and Indigenous Heritage
The name Wulai comes from the indigenous Atayal phrase kilux-wulai, which translates to "scalding hot water." Legend has it that Atayal hunters discovered the area hundreds of years ago after spotting steam rising from the riverbank, realizing the waters held natural thermal healing properties.
During the Japanese colonial period, Wulai was developed into a logging site, and the famous Wulai Log Cart rail system was constructed to haul timber down the steep mountain slopes. The Japanese also began developing the thermal springs into formal bathhouses. Today, Wulai stands proudly as the northernmost settlement of the Atayal people in Taiwan, actively preserving its tribal customs, weaving traditions, and culinary heritage against the backdrop of its famous natural springs.
What to See
Wulai Old Street and its surrounding river valley offer remarkable natural landscapes and cultural landmarks. Here are five top sights you must see during your visit:
1. Wulai Suspension Bridge (烏來吊橋)
Stretching high across the Nanshi River near the entrance of the Old Street, this traditional red pedestrian suspension bridge offers sweeping views over the turquoise river, hot spring resorts, and surrounding green mountains.
2. Atayal Museum (烏來泰雅民族博物館)
Located right on Wulai Old Street, this free three-story museum showcases traditional Atayal attire, facial tattoo customs, intricate hunting tools, and hand-woven textiles, providing essential cultural context for the region.
3. Wulai Waterfall (烏來瀑布)
Plunging 80 meters down a sheer mountain cliff across the river gorge, this towering waterfall is one of the most famous natural cascades in northern Taiwan, especially breathtaking after rainstorms.
4. Wulai Log Cart & Vintage Station (烏來台車)
Originally built in 1928 for timber transport, these retro open-air mini-trains now carry passengers on a charming, breeze-filled 1.6 km track through forest glades connecting Wulai Old Street to Wulai Waterfall.
5. Nanshi River Thermal Riverbed
Observe the spots along the Nanshi River banks where natural hot spring water naturally bubbles up and mixes directly into the cool river water, creating a stunning visual contrast of rising steam.
What to Do
Visiting Wulai allows travelers to pair wellness with mountain adventure. Make sure to include these five signature activities in your itinerary:
1. Soak in Natural Hot Springs
Experience Wulai’s odorless, skin-softening sodium bicarbonate springs—often called "Beauty Baths." Rent a private hot spring room in a riverside resort along Old Street or visit a luxury open-air public bath.
2. Sample Authentic Atayal Street Food
Take a culinary walk down the Old Street to sample wild boar sausages seasoned with mountain pepper (makauy), bamboo tube rice, and wild mountain ferns stir-fried over high heat.
3. Ride the Wulai Cable Car to Yun Hsien Resort
Board the vintage cable car above Wulai Waterfall to soar over the top of the cascade, landing at Yun Hsien Resort—a tranquil mountain park featuring boating lakes, nature trails, and rainforest flora.
4. Take a Scenic Walk along Lover's Path
Stroll along the paved riverside walkway from Wulai Old Street up to Wulai Waterfall, enjoying fresh mountain air, river views, and shaded forest undergrowth along the way.
5. Shop for Atayal Crafts and Mountain Pepper Products
Browse local boutiques for handmade Atayal woven bags, traditional bead accessories, and jars of dried makauy (indigenous mountain pepper with a citrusy-lemongrass kick) to take home.
How to Book Activities
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How to Get There
Reaching Wulai Old Street from downtown Taipei is affordable and easy via MRT and local bus:
- By MRT + Public Bus 849 (Most Popular & Direct):
- Take the Taipei Metro Green Line to Xindian MRT Station (terminal station).
- Exit the station and head to the bus stop directly outside on Beixin Road.
- Board Xindian Bus 849 (bound for Wulai) and ride it to the last stop, Wulai Bus Terminal (approx. 40 minutes). The entrance to Wulai Old Street is a 2-minute walk from the bus terminal.
- By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Uber):
- A direct taxi or Uber ride from central Taipei (such as Ximending or Taipei 101) directly to Wulai Old Street takes roughly 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
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Where to Stay
While many travellers visit Wulai as a day trip from Taipei, staying overnight in a hot spring hotel allows you to enjoy peaceful soak sessions under the stars after day-trippers leave. Recommended options include:
Beimen Wow Poshtel
Combining modern industrial aesthetics with boutique hostel comfort, Beimen Wow Poshtel offers a high-end experience for budget travelers. Located near Taipei Main Station, it features sleek private rooms, dormitory options, a spacious communal lounge, and a shared kitchen. 👉 Book Beimen Wow Poshtel here! Special Offer: Book your stay through Agoda to unlock exclusive member discounts and instant confirmation.
Inn Cube
Offering a minimalist, capsule-inspired concept near major transit hubs, Inn Cube provides compact, private rooms for solo travelers and quick overnight stays. It is ideal for those who value privacy, clean air-conditioned spaces, and maximum convenience. 👉 Book Inn Cube here! Special Offer: Save on your trip by booking with Hotels.com to earn rewards nights on eligible stays.
Cavemen Hostel
Featuring unique interior styling and cozy pod-style bunk beds with privacy curtains, Cavemen Hostel offers a comfortable retreat in central Taipei. Situated within easy walking distance of CKS Memorial Hall, it provides fast Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a friendly vibe for global backpackers. 👉 Book Cavement Hostel here! Special Offer: Check rates on Trip.com to grab special mobile-only deals and flexible booking options.
Fun Inn
Positioned near Ximending and central MRT stations, Fun Inn is a bright, contemporary hostel known for high standards of cleanliness, keycard security, and comfortable privacy-screened dorms. It serves as a social, budget-friendly launchpad for exploring the city's historic landmarks. 👉 Book Fun Inn here! Special Offer: Reserve your bed via Booking.com for free cancellation flexibility on select room rates.
Meow Day Hostel
A delightful spot for pet lovers and social travelers, Meow Day Hostel is an inclusive, welcoming hostel located close to major night markets and attractions. Aside from its resident felines, guests enjoy modern common areas, shared kitchen amenities, and a warm atmosphere. 👉 Book Meow Day Hostel here! Special Offer: Plan your Taipei trip on Klook to bundle your stay with discounted travel passes and local attraction tickets.
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Local Delicacies
Wulai Old Street features distinct flavors influenced by the forest and traditional Atayal cooking techniques:
- Atayal Wild Boar Sausage (雅各原住民山豬肉香腸): Juicy, smoky sausages made from mountain wild boar seasoned with local garlic and indigenous makauy pepper, grilled fresh over charcoal.
- Bamboo Tube Rice (竹筒飯): Glutinous rice mixed with pork or peanuts, sealed inside a fresh green bamboo stalk and steamed until infused with natural bamboo aroma.
- Makauy Seasoned Dishes (馬告料理): Dishes cooked with makauy—an indigenous wild pepper with a unique profile tasting of black pepper, lemon, and lemongrass.
- Stir-Fried Wild Mountain Ferns (炒山蘇): Crisp bird's nest fern fronds stir-fried over high heat with small dried fish, garlic, and tree seeds.
- Deep-Fried River Shrimp & Small Fish: Freshly caught river fish and tiny shrimp fried extra crispy and tossed with pepper salt, scallions, and chili.
Travel Tips
- Bring a Small Towel: If you plan to use footbaths or private hot spring facilities, bringing your own hand towel saves rental fees.
- Check Log Cart Operating Times: The Wulai Log Cart typically operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; plan your walk accordingly if you miss the last train back.
- Tap Your EasyCard: Pay for Bus 849, the MRT, and the Wulai Log Cart quickly using your contactless EasyCard.
- Visit on Weekdays for Fewer Crowds: Wulai gets busy with local weekend crowds seeking hot springs; visit Monday through Friday for a quieter experience.
- Stay Hydrated After Hot Springs: Mineral spring baths can dehydrate you quickly; carry a water bottle and drink plenty of water after soaking.
Nearby Attractions
Pair your trip to Wulai Old Street with these nearby natural and cultural destinations in New Taipei City:
- Yun Hsien Resort (雲仙樂園): Accessible via cable car above Wulai Waterfall, offering lush hiking paths, rowing boats, and rainforest ecology gardens.
- Neidong National Forest Recreation Area (內洞國家森林遊樂區): Located a short bus or taxi ride further up the valley, famous for its multi-tiered forest waterfalls and rich negative-ion air.
- Bitan Scenic Area (碧潭風景區): Located right outside Xindian MRT Station on your way back, featuring a suspension bridge, pedal-boating on the river, and waterfront restaurants.
- Xindian Night Market: A local, authentic night market located near Xindian station perfect for grabbing dinner after a day in the Wulai mountains.
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