A modern city with ancient roots, home to the 508-meter Taipei 101 skyscraper, vibrant night markets, and the National Palace Museum housing 700,000+ Chinese artifacts.
Taipei, Taiwan's capital, is a city where you can experience both ancient traditions and modern technology. As you explore, you'll see the towering Taipei 101, smell the aromas of night market food, and hear the buzz of the Ximending shopping district. You can view millennia-old artifacts at the National Palace Museum or hike through Yangmingshan National Park, all within reach of this vibrant urban center.
Taipei 101: A Modern Icon
Taipei 101, a 508-meter skyscraper, dominates the city's skyline. You can take an elevator to the observation deck on the 89th floor to see Taipei from above. The building includes a multi-level shopping mall and many restaurants, attracting both locals and tourists.
National Palace Museum: A Treasure Trove of Chinese Art
The National Palace Museum contains over 700,000 pieces of Chinese art and artifacts, dating back 8,000 years. You'll find ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings. One of the most interesting pieces is the Jadeite Cabbage, a small sculpture carved from a single piece of jade.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: A Monumental Landmark
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall commemorates the former president of the Republic of China. A white marble building with a blue octagonal roof sits in the center of a large plaza. You can often see public gatherings and performances here, giving you a glimpse into local culture and community life.
Night Markets: A Feast for the Senses
Night markets are central to Taipei's food culture. At Shilin Night Market, the largest in the city, you can find a wide range of street food, clothing, and souvenirs. Try local foods like stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and bubble tea. You can also explore Raohe Street Night Market and Ningxia Night Market, each with its own character and food options.
Yangmingshan National Park: Nature at the City's Doorstep
You can reach Yangmingshan National Park just north of Taipei for a quick nature break. The park has hiking trails for different skill levels, hot springs, and seasonal flower fields. In spring, many people come to see the cherry blossoms. For a shorter nature trip, climb Elephant Mountain within the city to see Taipei 101 and the surrounding urban area.
Getting Around Taipei
You'll find Taipei's public transportation system easy to use. The Taipei Metro (MRT) covers most of the city and runs on time. Buy an EasyCard to use on buses and the MRT. Taxis are also easy to find and relatively cheap, useful for direct trips to specific places.
