Taipei, the vibrant capital city of Taiwan, is a treasure trove of captivating tourist attractions that blend tradition and modernity. From ancient temples to soaring skyscrapers, this bustling metropolis offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or an architecture enthusiast, Taipei has something to offer. Let’s delve into the top 10 tourist attractions in Taipei that will leave you mesmerized.
1. Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is a skyscraper in Taipei, Taiwan. It was the tallest building in the world from 2004 to 2010, when it was surpassed by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Taipei 101 is 508 meters (1,667 feet) tall and has 101 floors. It is used for a variety of purposes, including offices, shopping, and tourism.
The building is shaped like a bamboo stalk, which is a symbol of strength and resilience in Chinese culture. The exterior of the building is made of glass and steel, and it has a distinctive spire at the top. The spire is designed to withstand strong winds and earthquakes.
Taipei 101 is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can go to the observation deck on the 89th floor for panoramic views of Taipei. The building also has a shopping mall, a museum, and a variety of restaurants.
Here are some other details about Taipei 101:
- The building was designed by C.Y. Lee & Partners Architects and Engineers.
- The construction of Taipei 101 began in 1999 and was completed in 2004.
- The building is named after its address, 101 Changsheng Road, Taipei.
- Taipei 101 is a LEED Gold certified building, which means that it meets certain sustainability standards.
2. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is a large, white marble building in Taipei, Taiwan. It was built in 1976 to honor the former President of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-Shek. The hall is a popular tourist destination and is known for its grand architecture and its collection of artifacts related to Chiang Kai-Shek.
The hall is a rectangular building with a central dome. The exterior is made of white marble and the interior is decorated with marble, granite, and wood. The hall has a large auditorium that can seat up to 5,000 people. There is also a museum on the grounds of the hall that exhibits artifacts related to Chiang Kai-Shek’s life and career.
Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is a significant landmark in Taipei and is a popular tourist destination. The hall is a reminder of the history of Taiwan and the legacy of Chiang Kai-Shek.
Here are some additional details about the hall:
- The hall is located in the center of Taipei, on Liberty Square.
- The hall is 76 meters tall and has a dome with a diameter of 50 meters.
- The hall is made of white marble from China and Italy.
- The museum on the grounds of the hall has over 10,000 artifacts related to Chiang Kai-Shek.
- The hall is open to the public from 9am to 5pm daily.
3. Longshan Temple
Longshan Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Wanhua District, Taipei, Taiwan. It is one of the most important temples in Taiwan and is a popular tourist destination. The temple was built in 1738 and is dedicated to Guanyin, the bodhisattva of compassion. It is also home to a number of other deities, including Mazu, the goddess of the sea, and Tudigong, the god of the earth.
The temple is a beautiful example of Chinese architecture. It is made of wood and brick and has a distinctive pagoda-style roof. The interior of the temple is richly decorated with statues, paintings, and calligraphy.
Longshan Temple is a vibrant and active place of worship. It is open to visitors every day and is a popular spot for prayer, meditation, and cultural activities.
Here are some other things to know about Longshan Temple:
- It is the oldest temple in Taipei.
- It was built in the Qing Dynasty.
- It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- It is a popular tourist destination.
- It is a place of worship for people of all faiths.
4. Jiufen
Jiufen is a small town in Taiwan that is famous for its beautiful scenery and its role as inspiration for the Studio Ghibli film Spirited Away. The town is located on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and its narrow streets and colorful buildings are a feast for the eyes. Jiufen is also known for its delicious food, especially its seafood dishes.
If you are looking for a charming and picturesque place to visit in Taiwan, Jiufen is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared for the crowds, as the town is a popular tourist destination.
Here are some of the things you can do in Jiufen:
- Visit Jiufen Old Street, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and teahouses.
- Take a walk along the cliffside trails, which offer stunning views of the ocean.
- Visit the Jiufen Gold Museum, which tells the story of the town’s history as a gold-mining town.
- Enjoy a delicious meal at one of Jiufen’s many restaurants, specializing in seafood and other Taiwanese dishes.
- Take a boat ride to nearby Shifen, a small town known for its beautiful waterfalls.
If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli, you will definitely recognize some of the scenes from Spirited Away in Jiufen. The town’s narrow streets, colorful buildings, and cliffside location are all very similar to the setting of the film.
5. National Palace Museum
- The National Palace Museum is a museum in Taipei, Taiwan, that houses a collection of over 700,000 Chinese artifacts, including paintings, calligraphy, sculptures, jade, bronzes, ceramics, and textiles.
- The museum was founded in 1925 in Beijing, China, as the Palace Museum. After the Chinese Civil War, the museum was moved to Taipei in 1949.
- The National Palace Museum is one of the most visited museums in the world. In 2019, it had over 10 million visitors.
- The museum is divided into 11 exhibition halls, which showcase the different aspects of Chinese art and culture.
- Some of the most famous artifacts in the museum include the “Ding” bronzes, the “Admonitions of the Imperial Instructress” painting, and the “Meihua xueshi tu” painting.
- The National Palace Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6. Elephant Mountain
Elephant Mountain, also known as Xiangshan, is a mountain in Taipei, Taiwan. It is a popular hiking destination, offering stunning views of the Taipei skyline. The mountain is shaped like an elephant, hence its name. The hike to the top is relatively short and easy, and it can be completed in about 30 minutes.
The best time to visit Elephant Mountain is during sunrise or sunset. The views are simply breathtaking at these times of day. If you are visiting during the day, you can still enjoy the views, but the crowds will be larger.
Here are some tips for visiting Elephant Mountain:
- Wear comfortable shoes. The hike is not difficult, but it is important to have good shoes that will support your feet.
- Bring water and snacks. There are no food or drink vendors on the mountain, so you will need to bring your own.
- Be prepared for the heat. Taipei can be very hot and humid, so be sure to dress accordingly.
- Respect the environment. Please do not litter or damage the plants or wildlife on the mountain.
7. Beitou Hot Springs
Beitou Hot Springs is a collection of hot springs located in Beitou District, New Taipei City, Taiwan. The springs are known for their therapeutic properties and are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The Beitou Hot Springs are divided into two main areas: the Public Hot Springs and the Private Hot Springs. The Public Hot Springs are open to the public and offer a variety of different pools, including indoor and outdoor pools, as well as pools with different mineral content. The Private Hot Springs are located in hotels and resorts and offer more luxurious facilities.
The Beitou Hot Springs are said to have therapeutic properties for a variety of ailments, including arthritis, rheumatism, and skin conditions. The springs are also said to be beneficial for relaxation and stress relief.
If you are looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, the Beitou Hot Springs are a great option. Just be sure to book your stay in advance, as the springs are very popular, especially during the weekends.
Here are some of the benefits of visiting Beitou Hot Springs:
- Relaxation and stress relief
- Relief from pain and inflammation
- Improvement of skin health
- Boost of the immune system
- Increased energy levels
- Improved sleep quality
If you are interested in visiting Beitou Hot Springs, here are some tips:
- Book your stay in advance, especially during the weekends.
- Choose the type of hot spring that is right for you. There are public hot springs, private hot springs, and even foot baths.
- Bring a swimsuit and a towel.
- Be aware of the different mineral content of the springs. Some springs are high in sulfur, which can be strong-smelling.
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your visit.
- Listen to your body and take breaks if you need them.
8. Shilin Night Market
Shilin Night Market is a large night market in Shilin District, Taipei, Taiwan, often considered to be the largest and most famous night market in Taiwan. It is a popular tourist destination, and is known for its wide variety of food, clothing, and souvenirs. The market is open from 5pm to 11pm every day, and is busiest on weekends and holidays.
Here is a description of Shilin Night Market:
- The market is located in the Shilin District of Taipei, and is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest metro station is Jiantan Station, which is on the Red Line.
- The market is open from 5pm to 11pm every day, and is busiest on weekends and holidays.
- The market is home to over 500 stalls, selling a wide variety of food, clothing, and souvenirs.
- Some of the most popular foods at Shilin Night Market include stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and fried chicken.
- The market is also a great place to find souvenirs, such as T-shirts, keychains, and chopsticks.
- Shilin Night Market is a lively and crowded place, but it is also a lot of fun to explore.
9. Maokong Gondola
The Maokong Gondola is a cable car system in Taipei, Taiwan. It is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The gondola travels a distance of 4.4 kilometers (2.7 miles) between Taipei Zoo and Maokong, a tea-growing area. The journey takes about 20 minutes.
The gondola has two types of cars: regular cars and crystal cars. The regular cars have a solid floor, while the crystal cars have a see-through floor. The crystal cars offer a more immersive experience, as you can see the ground below you as you travel.
The Maokong Gondola is open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, 365 days a year. The ticket price for a regular car is NT$120 (US$3.70), and the ticket price for a crystal car is NT$180 (US$5.40).
Here are some of the things you can do at the Maokong Gondola:
- Enjoy the stunning views of Taipei and the surrounding mountains.
- Visit the Maokong Tea Garden, where you can learn about tea production and sample different types of tea.
- Have a meal at one of the many restaurants in Maokong.
- Take a walk through the forest.
- Visit the Zhinan Temple, a Taoist temple with a beautiful garden.
10. Yangmingshan National Park
Yangmingshan National Park is a national park located in Taipei, Taiwan. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and enjoying the scenery. The park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including hydrangeas, bamboo, and Formosan sika deer. The park also has several hot springs, which are popular for bathing and relaxation.
Here are some of the things you can do in Yangmingshan National Park:
- Hike the trails to the summits of Qixing Mountain, Xiaoyoukeng, and other peaks.
- Visit the Sulfur Valley, where you can see steaming vents and sulfur crystals.
- Go camping in one of the park’s campgrounds.
- Visit the Yangmingshan Botanical Garden, which has a variety of plants from around the world.
- Take a dip in one of the park’s hot springs.
- Enjoy the scenery from one of the park’s many viewpoints.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to visit in Taiwan, Yangmingshan National Park is a great option.
Here are some additional facts about Yangmingshan National Park:
- It is the most visited national park in Taiwan.
- It is home to over 1,700 species of plants.
- It has a volcanic history, and the park is still active.
- The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring or fall.
In conclusion, Taipei is an enchanting destination that seamlessly blends the allure of its rich cultural heritage with modern marvels. From towering skyscrapers to ancient temples, from bustling night markets to serene natural retreats, the city offers an array of tourist attractions that cater to every traveler’s preferences. Embark on this exciting journey, immerse yourself in Taipei’s charm, and create unforgettable memories in this captivating metropolis.
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- Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
- IATA code: TPE
- ICAO code: RCTP
- Location: Taoyuan City, Taiwan
- Opened: 1979
- Runways: 3
- Terminals: 4
- Airlines: Over 100
- Destinations: Over 200
- Songshan Airport (TSA)
- IATA code: TSA
- ICAO code: RCKH
- Location: Taipei City, Taiwan
- Opened: 1947
- Runways: 1
- Terminals: 1
- Airlines: Over 20
- Destinations: Over 40
