Tianmu

Peaceful expat enclave

Word to the wise: Check out the weekend market in Tianmu Circle for secondhand ware and new clothing, accessories and housewares.
Long Taipei's expat enclave, Tianmu's leafy streets and wide sidewalks more resemble a neighbourhood in the West than a district of Taipei. The expat-centric area north of Shilin district is brimming with Western-style restaurants, department stores and businesses that cater to foreigners.

This is where you'll find Taipei American School and Taipei European School, amongst others, as well as the useful resource for foreigners, the Community Services Centre, which puts on cultural events. For short-term visitors, Tianmu offers easy access to Yangmingshan via the Tianmu Steps, a clutch of fine dining restaurants and a peaceful respite from the downtown hustle and bustle.