Hostels in Shilin District, Taipei: A Backpacker's Guide
Shilin District in Taipei is where you get the best of both worlds—urban convenience mixed with authentic local charm. Known for its legendary night market, beautiful parks, and easy transport connections, it’s a solid choice for budget travelers who want to experience Taipei beyond the tourist hotspots. The district is home to some of the city’s best social hostels, making it a great place to meet fellow backpackers.
Why Stay in Shilin District?
Shilin is one of Taipei’s most traveler-friendly districts, offering a mix of cultural landmarks, cheap eats, and excellent connectivity. Staying here means you’ll be close to one of Taiwan’s most famous night markets and within easy reach of Taipei’s green spaces and hiking trails.
- Affordable and Social Hostels: Shilin has some of Taipei’s best budget accommodations, including hostels designed for backpackers who want a mix of comfort and social vibes.
- Shilin Night Market: A backpacker’s dream—cheap, delicious street food, vibrant energy, and late-night bites at one of Taiwan’s largest and most famous night markets.
- Great Transport Links: Shilin is well-connected via the MRT (Jiantan and Shilin stations), making it easy to explore Taipei without breaking the bank.
- Culture & History: You’ll find historic sites like the National Palace Museum and Confucius Temple within a short ride.
- Nature & Hiking: If you need a break from city life, Yangmingshan National Park and the hiking trails of Zhishan are close by.
Transportation
Shilin District is one of the easiest places in Taipei to navigate. The Red MRT Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) has stops at Jiantan and Shilin, both offering quick access to the city center in under 15 minutes. Buses run frequently to Yangmingshan National Park, Beitou Hot Springs, and other major attractions.
- MRT: The Red Line connects Shilin to Taipei Main Station and Ximending within a few stops.
- Buses: Direct buses to Beitou, Yangmingshan, and the National Palace Museum.
- Bike Rentals: Taipei’s YouBike system has multiple stations around Shilin.
Culture and Local Tips
- Eat Like a Local: The Shilin Night Market is famous for its massive fried chicken, stinky tofu, and bubble tea—perfect budget eats.
- Early Bird Advantage: While the night market is lively, heading out early in the morning to explore nearby temples and parks lets you see a quieter side of Taipei.
- Cash is King: Many street vendors only accept cash, so have some NT$ handy.
- Be Mindful of Crowds: The night market can get packed, so visit on a weekday if you prefer a less chaotic experience.
Final Thoughts
Shilin District is an ideal base for backpackers looking to experience the authentic side of Taipei while still staying well-connected. The mix of budget-friendly hostels, unbeatable street food, and easy access to nature makes it one of the best areas to stay in the city. Whether you’re here to eat your way through the night market, explore historical sites, or take in Taipei’s green spaces, Shilin has something for every traveler.