Overview
The Taipei Botanical Garden is a tranquil 8.2-hectare oasis in the Zhongzheng district, home to over 1,500 plant species and a famous lotus pond that blooms spectacularly each summer.
Highlights
- Lotus Pond: In June and July, the central pond erupts with hundreds of blooming sacred lotus flowers — Taipei's most photographed seasonal spectacle.
- Herbarium: A research-grade collection of over 200,000 preserved plant specimens from across East Asia.
- Historic Trees: Centenarian banyan trees with dramatic aerial roots create a canopy-shaded oasis.
History
Founded in 1921 during the Japanese colonial period as a botanical research station, it is one of the oldest scientific gardens in Southeast Asia. The National Museum of History sits within its grounds.
Visitor Tips
- Lotus Season: Visit early morning in June-July for the best lotus photography — flowers open at dawn and close by midday.
- Mosquitoes: Bring repellent, especially near the ponds in summer.
- Duration: 45–60 minutes.