first visits
Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
Set within 115,500 square meters of landscaped grounds, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall was the former office of Chiang Kai-Shek. Today, it houses a collection of historical records and preserved photographs, and also displays Chiang Kai-Shek’s vehicles in the central corridor.
The changing of the guards, which takes place every hour on the hour, is a magnificent spectacle. Between February and March, you can enjoy the added beauty of the cherry blossoms in the grounds.
location
21 Zhongshan South Road, Zhongzheng District
+886 2 2343 1100
Longshan Temple
Built in 1738 in the Qing Dynasty, Longshan Temple remains one of Taiwan’s most important temples, and is a national grade two historic site. Generations of Taiwanese have come to worship Guanyin, the Buddhist representation of compassion, and other divine spirits and to seek guidance, particularly on the 1st and the 15th of each month.
In addition to its traditional architecture, the temple is a showcase for some of Taiwan’s art and literature, featuring exquisite wood sculptures as well as Chinese poems, verses and lyrics.
location
211 Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District
+886 2 2302 5162
National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum in Shilin is home to, arguably, the world’s most complete collection of ancient Chinese artifacts including paintings, relics, calligraphy writings and valuable documents. It is a must-see for first time visitors.
Look for famous pieces such as jade cabbage, pork belly jade, and passenger boats carved from olive pips.
location
221 Zhishan Road, Section 2, Shilin District
+886 2 2881 2021
Shilin Night Market
Shilin Night Market in Northern Taipei is a must-visit for a taste of Taiwanese life. The market dates back to the 19th century when a collection of vendors traded their goods in the area along the Keelung River.
Today, it is the most famous and the largest night market in Taipei, frequented by both local residents and overseas visitors. The market stretches over several city blocks, featuring hundreds of trinket shops, eateries and also a new food court.
Go with an empty stomach and sample all of the tempting Taiwanese snacks: sweet pork sausages, oyster omelet, stinky tofu, fried chicken, bubble tea, grass jelly and more. Then, walk off the calories and browse in bargain shops, wandering through a maze of streets and alleys lined with knickknacks and cool digs.
location
101 Jihe Road, Shilin District
+886 2 2882 0340
Taipei 101
Take in stunning 360-degree views of the city from Taipei 101, one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world. Travel to the Indoor Observatory on level 89 or the Outdoor Observatory on level 91 by high speed elevators at 1,101 meters a minute.
Inspired by traditional Chinese architecture and the bamboo plant, the skyscraper resembles a pagoda and is a symbol of strength, fast growth, and flexibility. With a wide selection of shopping and dining options nearby, the surrounding area is great for strolling and for finding clusters of luxury brands.
Location
7 Xinyi Road, Section 5, Xinyi District
+886 2 8101 8960