Jimmy’s Moon Bus

Description

Jimmy’s Moon Bus is one of those places that feels like it popped straight out of a dream—or more accurately, from the pages of a beloved picture book. Inspired by the whimsical art of Jimmy Liao, a Taiwanese illustrator known for his emotional and imaginative storytelling, this converted bus has become a small but meaningful landmark for locals and travelers alike. It’s not your typical tourist attraction with flashing lights or sprawling grounds, but rather a quiet, reflective nook that invites you to slow down and reconnect with your inner child. And honestly, that’s what makes it special.

The bus itself is painted in deep shades of blue, with smiling moons scattered across its body, as if the night sky itself decided to take a joyride through Taipei. Inside, the space doubles as a children’s reading corner—tiny chairs, shelves filled with picture books, and a cozy atmosphere that smells faintly of paper and curiosity. It’s small, sure, and you might not spend hours here, but the experience lingers longer than you’d expect. I remember stepping inside on a humid afternoon, the city buzzing outside, and suddenly feeling like I’d stepped into another world. There’s something about the way Jimmy Liao’s art captures both melancholy and hope that makes this bus more than just a photo stop—it’s a gentle reminder to look for wonder in ordinary places.

That said, not everyone falls under its spell. Some visitors find it smaller or more simplistic than they imagined, especially if they arrive expecting a full-scale museum. But if you come with an open heart (and maybe a love for stories), the Moon Bus has its own quiet magic. It’s the kind of spot where you can take a deep breath, flip through a book, and feel the noise of the city fade into the background. A few minutes of peace, wrapped in art and imagination—it’s a rare find in a place as bustling as Taipei.

Key Features

• Artistic Design: The bus is painted with Jimmy Liao’s signature moon motifs, creating a dreamy, storybook-like exterior that’s instantly recognizable.
• Children’s Reading Space: Inside, shelves of illustrated books encourage children (and nostalgic adults) to sit, read, and let their imaginations wander.
• Interactive Photo Spot: The whimsical artwork makes it a favorite backdrop for photos—especially at dusk when the soft lighting enhances the moonlit theme.
• Compact and Cozy: The entire attraction is contained within a single bus, making it easy to visit even on a tight schedule.
• Cultural Connection: The Moon Bus celebrates Taiwanese creativity and literature, offering a glimpse into the emotional storytelling that defines Jimmy Liao’s art.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Although small, it’s a safe and engaging stop for families exploring the city with young children.

It’s worth noting that accessibility is somewhat limited here—there’s no wheelchair-accessible entrance or parking, which can be a challenge for some visitors. Still, for those who can manage the steps, the experience inside feels intimate and heartfelt, almost like a secret shared between you and the artist.

Best Time to Visit

Now, timing your visit can make a big difference. The Moon Bus sits outdoors, and while it’s open year-round, the best time to go really depends on what kind of atmosphere you’re after. Personally, I think early evening is the sweet spot. The city lights start to flicker on, the air cools down, and the moon illustrations on the bus seem to glow just a bit brighter. It’s that perfect in-between moment—day slipping into night—that matches the dreamy tone of Jimmy Liao’s world.

Weekdays are generally quieter, so if you’d rather avoid crowds and take your time exploring, aim for a mid-afternoon visit during the week. Weekends tend to draw families and tourists, which can make the small space feel a bit cramped. Weather-wise, Taipei’s spring and autumn months (roughly March to May and October to November) are ideal—less rain, mild temperatures, and that soft golden light that makes photos look effortlessly beautiful. Summer can be hot and sticky, and if you’re anything like me, that kind of weather makes lingering inside a bus less appealing. But even then, it’s worth a quick stop, especially if you’re already exploring nearby attractions in the Xinyi District.

How to Get There

Getting to Jimmy’s Moon Bus is pretty straightforward, especially if you’re already in central Taipei. The Xinyi District is one of the city’s most accessible areas, well-served by public transportation. The easiest route is by MRT—hop off at one of the nearby stations and take a short walk. You’ll likely spot the bus before you even reach it; its cheerful moon designs stand out against the urban backdrop. If you’re not familiar with the area, just follow the flow of people heading toward the main shopping and cultural spots—it’s tucked right in that lively zone where art and city life meet.

Taxis and ride-sharing services are also convenient, particularly if you’re traveling with kids or carrying bags. Taipei’s taxi drivers are generally friendly and used to tourists, though it helps to have the name written in Chinese characters just in case. If you’re the adventurous type, renting a YouBike (Taipei’s public bike system) can be a fun way to get there too. The district is bike-friendly, and pedaling your way through the streets gives you a different perspective of the city. Just keep an eye out for traffic—it’s busy, and scooters tend to appear out of nowhere sometimes.

For those coming from outside Taipei, the city’s transportation network makes it easy to plan a day trip. High-speed rail, buses, and local trains all connect smoothly, and once you arrive in the city, it’s just a matter of navigating a few stops on the MRT. Honestly, half the fun is the journey itself—the anticipation of finding this little artistic gem tucked amid skyscrapers and shopping malls.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s where a few insider tips can make your visit smoother and more enjoyable. First off, don’t expect a large-scale attraction—it’s literally a single bus, and that’s part of its charm. Think of it as an art installation rather than a theme park. If you go in with that mindset, you’ll appreciate it much more. Bring a camera or your phone fully charged because the artwork is incredibly photogenic, especially from certain angles where the reflections of nearby buildings blend with the painted moons.

If you’re traveling with kids, plan to spend about 15–30 minutes here. That’s usually enough time for them to explore, read a few pages, and take photos. The reading space is small, so it’s best to visit when it’s not too crowded—again, weekday afternoons are ideal. And while there’s no admission fee, respecting the space is key. Keep voices low inside the bus, and remind little ones to handle books gently. It’s a shared public space, after all, and part of its magic comes from how visitors treat it with care.

There aren’t any restrooms or cafés directly attached to the bus, but you’ll find plenty of options nearby. Taipei is full of cozy coffee shops and snack stalls, so you can easily grab a drink before or after your visit. I personally like to pair a stop at the Moon Bus with a stroll through the surrounding area—it’s a nice way to balance art and city life. You might even stumble upon other hidden gems, like small street art pieces or local markets that don’t always make it into guidebooks.

One more thing: if you’re a fan of Jimmy Liao’s work, it’s worth reading one of his picture books before you go. Understanding his storytelling style—gentle, poetic, and often tinged with bittersweet emotion—adds another layer to the experience. You’ll see the bus not just as a piece of art, but as a living extension of his imagination. Even if you’ve never read his books, though, the Moon Bus has a universal appeal. It’s about slowing down, noticing beauty in small things, and remembering that wonder isn’t reserved for children.

So, if you find yourself wandering through Taipei and craving a moment of quiet creativity, make a detour to Jimmy’s Moon Bus. It won’t take much of your time, but it might just leave you with one of those unexpected memories that stick with you long after you’ve left. And honestly, isn’t that what travel is really about?

Location

Places to Stay Near Jimmy’s Moon Bus

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides