What to Experience in Taipei?

Taipei, Taiwan, is a unique destination that truly has it all. Its bustling city life covers quaint and vibrant neighborhoods, multiple international cuisine offerings, historic attractions, and some seriously exotic natural beauty. Whether it’s your first time in Taipei or your fiftieth, here is a comprehensive guide to all the must-do experiences in the city that you don’t want to miss.

Tranquil Scenery at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Start your exploration of Taipei with a visit to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a tranquil park perched atop a hill in the middle of the city. Along with lush greenery and tranquil lake, the hall features a large white stone monument engraved with words paying tribute to Taiwan’s former president, Chiang Kai-shek. The Memorial Hall is also home to the National Theatre and National Concert Hall which host traditional Chinese performances throughout the year.

Learn about History with a Tour at the National Palace Museum

Located at the foothill of Yangmingshan National Park, the National Palace Museum is one of Taiwan’s top tourist attractions. It houses over 650,000 artifacts from China’s imperial dynasties, and even presents some pieces that once belonged to China’s last emperor, Chiang Kai-shek. This is the perfect opportunity to learn more about Taiwan’s rich history and get a more in-depth look into Chinese culture.

A Cultural Exploration of Raohe Street Night Market

No trip to Taipei is complete without a visit to its famed street markets. Raohe Street Night Market is one of the oldest vendors in the city and offers an extensive selection of traditional housewares, apparel, and snacks that can take up an entire day of exploration. During the night market, browse through arrays of colorful lanterns, street vendors selling homemade treats, and quick eats. This is an experience not to be missed.

Indulge in Delicious Gourmet Cuisine

Be sure to sample some of the delicious gourmet dishes Taipei has to offer. Get lost in its endless mix of Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian restaurants. Make sure to check out some cool cafe concepts like Easy House, which is a chic cafe that serves breakfast all day long. Or, if you’re looking for something more out-of-the-box then try out one of Taipei’s themed cafes like Steampunk Cafe or B. Raoul Cafe.

Spend Time Visiting Iconic Shrines or Grottoes

For a more cultural experience, head over to Bao An Gong temple that was built during the Yuan Dynasty (1279–1368). This stunning temple features multiple stunning shrines and statues all perched atop a tranquil hill overlooking Taipei City. Afterwards, take a trip out to Matsu Quay for their iconic grotto cave shrines. A perfect spot for sightseeing with remarkable views of Danshui Riverfront Park.

Take a Hike at Yangmingshan National Park

Explore nature at Yangmingshan National Park, which covers 11,000 hectares of lush mountain ranges and is home to over 100 species of birds. Take a morning hike up Mt Qixing or Mt Sanxing and enjoy sprawling views of the city and its surrounding mountains. Alternatively, visit during cherry blossom season (April – May), where some parts of the park come alive with a sea of pink petals on the breeze.

View Modern Landmarks on The Tamsui River

Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Tamsui River, where you can catch iconic views of modern Taipei landmarks like the Uni-President Building and The Far Eastern Plaza Hotel. Here you can also find vibrant shops selling traditional street food and souvenirs or maybe even take part in an evening spin on their famous ferris wheel where you’ll have unparalleled views of the cityscape. Taipei is an authentic and vibrant destination where you’ll never run out of things to do. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes and endless things to see and do – no matter what kind of traveler you are – you’re sure to fall completely in love with this city. Whether you are looking for peaceful escapes or vibrant city life, you’ll find it all in Taipei! More tips on things to do in Taipei can be found here.

Insider’s Guide to Taipei: What to Experience Beyond the Tourist Spots

Taipei, the bustling capital city of Taiwan, is a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic cultural and culinary experience. Although there’s no shortage of popular tourist attractions like the Taipei 101 Tower or the National Palace Museum, the city has so much more to offer beyond these famous places. Here are some of the best-kept secrets of Taipei that locals love.

Hidden Gems: Discovering Taipei’s Best-Kept Secrets

At first glance, Taipei may seem like a city of high-rises, neon lights, and crowds of people. But if you step off the beaten path and venture into less-crowded corners of the city, you’ll discover a different side of Taipei. For example, the famous Raohe night market or Shilin night market are tourist hotspots. Instead, explore the Tonghua Night Market with its more relaxed atmosphere and excellent food. Or, head to Treasure Hill Artist Village in Gongguan and wander through the narrow alleyways adorned with murals and street art. Lastly, check out Zhongzheng Park, a little-known park filled with trees, ponds, and bridges.

Taipei’s Culinary Delights: A Foodie’s Paradise

Taiwanese cuisine is known for its diverse flavors and unique blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Western influences. Of course, there is the famous Taiwanese street food that you must try, such as stinky tofu, oyster omelet, beef noodle soup, and bubble tea. But, there’s also an abundance of restaurants specializing in traditional Taiwanese dishes like Lu Rou Fan, a minced pork rice bowl, or Din Tai Fung, the famous spot for steamed dumplings. In addition, there are plenty of vegetarian options, including Taipei’s excellent vegan cafes and restaurants.

Cultural Experiences: Uncovering the Heart of Taipei

Taipei is a city steeped in culture, with a wide array of festivals, arts, and customs. For example, the Lunar New Year is the biggest festival of the year, celebrated with parades, dragon dances, and fireworks. Another favorite yearly event is the Lantern Festival, which traditionally marked the end of the Lunar New Year festivities. Taipei’s art scene is impressive, too, with galleries and exhibitions scattered throughout the city. And don’t forget to check out the city’s many temples, including the elaborate Longshan Temple, the oldest and most famous in Taipei.

Exploring Taipei’s Unique History

Taipei has a fascinating and complex history dating back to the 18th century. You can learn about the city’s early days by visiting the historic sites like Taipei City Walls Ruins Park, where you can see the remnants of the city’s stone walls and watchtower. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall honors the former president of the Republic of China, and the Taiwan 228 Peace Memorial Park commemorates the mass killings and arrests that followed an anti-government uprising in 1947. And, for a more recent history lesson, head to the National Museum of Taiwan Democracy, housed in the former Kuomintang headquarters.

Adventures Beyond the City

If you have more time, make sure to take a day trip outside of Taipei. Yangmingshan National Park is an oasis of greenery and hiking trails, offering fresh air and stunning views of Taipei. Tamsui is a beautiful riverside town with a bustling night market, historic buildings, and romantic scenic walks. For a more active experience, take the Maokong Gondola to the top of the mountains, where you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Taipei while sipping on some local tea.

In Conclusion

Taipei is a city full of wonder and surprise. With this insider’s guide, you can unlock the best-kept secrets and experience the real Taipei beyond the tourist spots. Indulge in the world-famous Taiwanese cuisine, explore the rich cultural heritage, and wander the less-traveled paths that lead to hidden treasures. Taipei will leave an indelible impression on your heart and is sure to keep you coming back for more.