Top 10 Unmissable Spots in Taipei
Taipei, the vibrant and modern capital of Taiwan, captivates visitors with its soaring skyscrapers and bustling shopping centers. But beyond the cityscapes, Taipei is a treasure trove of unique culture, incredible street food, and picturesque attractions.
Here's a list of the top 10 places you absolutely have to visit when in Taipei:
1. Taipei 101 – An Icon of Taipei
The tallest building in Taiwan, Taipei 101 once held the title of the world's tallest. Ascend via super-speed elevator to the 89th floor for panoramic city views. Don't miss the giant tuned mass damper, an engineering marvel protecting the building from earthquakes.
Tip: Explore the shopping mall below or enjoy dinner at Din Tai Fung, the globally renowned dim sum restaurant.
2. Jiufen Old Street – A Fairytale Village in the Mountains
Located about an hour from Taipei, Jiufen is an ancient village characterized by stone-paved alleyways, traditional teahouses, vibrant red lanterns, and breathtaking mountain and ocean vistas. It is believed to be the inspiration for the animated film Spirited Away.
Tip: Visit around 3–4 PM, sip tea, enjoy roasted sweet potatoes, and watch the sunset and the lights come on.
3. Shilin Night Market – A Food Paradise
The largest and most famous night market in Taipei features hundreds of food stalls, shopping opportunities, and games. Must-try dishes include giant fried chicken, stinky tofu, grilled squid, tanghulu (candied hawthorns), papaya milk, and honey sweet potatoes.
Tip: Go after 6 PM to experience the vibrant atmosphere. Bring cash and an empty stomach!
4. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall – Majestic Beauty in the Heart of the City
This architectural masterpiece reflects history and national spirit. The vast grounds include a plaza, ceremonial archways, and the main hall housing a statue of Chiang Kai-shek. The hourly changing of the guard ceremony is a popular attraction.
Tip: Visit in the morning for beautiful photos and fewer crowds.
5. Yangmingshan National Park – Nature Near the City
Located near downtown Taipei, Yangmingshan is a haven for nature lovers, boasting cherry blossom fields, golden calla lily fields, silver grass, natural hot springs, and gentle hiking trails.
Tip: Visit in spring (February–April) for blooming flowers, or in autumn for crisp, fresh air.
6. Ximending – Youthful and Vibrant
A bustling district where Taipei's youth gather every evening. Find trendy fashion, affordable local cosmetics, charming cafes, tattoo parlors, and street performances. It's also a great place to experience the local nightlife.
Tip: Try Chen San Ding bubble tea (50 Lan) and take photos at the electronic billboard intersection, similar to Shibuya in Japan!
7. Longshan Temple – Spirituality in the City
Taipei's oldest temple is revered by locals as a sacred place to pray for love, luck, and health. The ancient architecture and serene atmosphere offer a respite from the urban bustle.
Tip: Visit the nearby Huaxi Street Night Market in the evening.
8. Raohe Night Market – Eat and Chill
Smaller than Shilin Night Market, Raohe is appreciated for its cleanliness, high-quality food, and less crowded atmosphere. The standout dish is the baked pepper meat bun – unforgettable after just one bite!
Tip: Situated near Songshan Ciyou Temple – visit both in the afternoon.
9. National Palace Museum – Thousands of Years of Chinese Art
Home to over 700,000 precious artifacts from Chinese dynasties, including jadeite cabbage, meat-shaped stone, and sculptures from the 4th century.
Tip: If you are not familiar with history, rent an audio guide.
10. Tamsui – Taipei's Most Romantic Sunset
Take the MRT to the end of the Tamsui line and discover a different world: a rustic coastal town, riverside cafes, fresh seafood, and a romantic lover's bridge perfect for sunset viewing.
Tip: Rent a tandem bike along the river, and enjoy grilled squid or colorful ice cream.
Taipei is a destination that you'll want to revisit time and again.
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