A condensed Taipei travel guide, as is represented by the following info, will enable you to briefly explore this capital of Taiwan, which is located on the Asian state’s northern tip. Sitting on the Tamsui River, the city of Taipei is home to over 2.5 million people and comprises an area of almost 105 square miles.
A City that Combines the Ancient with the Modern
A Taipei travel guide such as this one too can introduce you to the culture and contrasts of this dynamic Asian city. Whether you decide to visit the Taipei 101 building and take a ride on its express elevator or revel in the collections of ancient Chinese art at the National Palace Museum, you’ll find the journey to this city will be well to your liking.
A Variety of Things to Do
Take walks through the city markets, visit ancient temples or escape from urban life for a while by taking a hike in Yangmingshan National Park. Of course, you’ll want to partake in Taiwanese type dining too, sample delicate teas or brave eating such Chinese cuisine as fried crickets or frog soup. Fortunately, for the less adventuresome, Chinese fare is offered in the form of traditional Beijing duck or rice with vegetables and dumplings.
Shop Until You Drop
If you love to shop, then you’ll no doubt like pursuing the activity in Taipei. Spend time in upscale malls and emporiums as well small, out-of-the-way boutiques. Popular shopping locales include the on-trend Ximending, the 101 Mall or the shops along Dihua Street.
The Night Markets
For evening entertainment, Taipei offers ballet and theatrical performances as well as jazzy music at a variety of clubs or cocktail bars. The Wanhua District, the oldest section in Taiwan, is the hub for night market activities. The Longshan Night Market is made up of four primary selling locations, or:
- The Huaxi Street Market (the most popular);
- The Guangzhou Street Market (the largest);
- The Wuzhou Street Market; and
- The Xichang Street Market.
The Guangzhou Street Market
The large Guangzhou Street market is, again, the largest market that is featured in the Longshan Temple night market area. Tourists tend to migrate to the Huaxi Street Market while locals like the Guangzhou market area.
Market Offerings
Items sold at the markets include toys, electronics, socks, and small inexpensive lamps. Some of the food offerings include glutinous rice and peanuts and frog soup. All the market areas are connected. So, visiting the night markets is a great way to see and experience Taiwan.
Popular Taipei Attractions
Longshan Temple
Longshan Temple, built in 1738, is a beautiful temple in the Wanhua District. It takes about an hour to visit the religious site, which is often the host location for a number of Taipei festivals and celebrations.
Taipei 101
As previously noted, Taipei 101 is a must-see skyscraper too. As you might surmise from the number, the building features 101 stories. Take the elevator up 91 floors in lightning quick time (about a half a minute) to see the city’s sights.
Yangmingshan National Park
Another must-see attraction is Yangmingshan National Park, which is located about a half hour from the center of Taipei. The beautiful park is a wonderful natural escape with its peaceful lakes and meadows. Strive to see the park in the early spring when the cherry blossoms are blossoming.
Beitou Hot Springs
The Beitou Hot Springs is just one of the natural hot water bath locations featured in the capital. The springs have been attracting crowds since the late 80s.
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial is a landmark site that is frequently reserved for national celebrations and events. Within the white marbled structure, visitors can learn more about the famous Taiwanese leader.
The National Palace Museum
A must-see attraction as well, the National Palace Museum is home to a variety of beautiful Chinese and Taiwanese antiquities.
Recommended City Luxury Hotels
Suggested hotels to stay at in Taipei include the Landis Taipei, the Caesar Park Taipei, and the Sunworld Dynasty Hotel.
Sunworld Dynasty Hotel
Of the three listings, the Sunworld Dynasty Hotel is the least expensive, with nightly rates hovering around $90 per night. The 3.5 star rated hotel is close to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Taipei 101. Room service is available as is an outdoor pool, sauna and health facility. A restaurant and bar and lounge are also located within the property.
The Caesar Park Taipei
Situated close to shopping, the National Taiwan Museum and the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial, the Caesar Park Taipei is also near the Taipei Botanical Garden and night street market activities. Featuring such amenities as health club and sauna, the four star hotel also offers wireless Internet and roundtrip shuttle to and from the airport.
The Landis Taipei
The Landis Taipei, the most expensive of the grouping, is located in close proximity to the Taipei World Trade Center and Taipei 101. Three restaurants and a health club and sauna are located within the luxury residence.
