Minor error: it is true that Wulai is outside of Taipei proper, but Beitou has been part of Taipei City for half a century. It's a quiet area located not far from my own mostly residential district (Tianmu), an upscale area whose residents actually rejected (!!!) a projected MRT line in order to remain quiet and free of crowds. There are quiet places in Taipei, if you know where to look.

There's not much to do in Beitou besides enjoying the hot springs and restaurants. One more choice is to cool off by hiking in the hills. I'm glad to see you enjoyed it, "Steam Girl!"