Taipei, Taiwan

🌆 Discover Taipei: The Modern Soul of Ancient Taiwan

From soaring skyscrapers to steaming night market stalls, Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is a city of contrasts—where tradition meets innovation at every corner. Nestled between lush green mountains and infused with a unique blend of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences, Taipei offers a journey that is as flavorful as its famed street food.

📍 Where is Taipei?

Located in northern Taiwan, Taipei is the political, economic, and cultural center of the island. Set in a basin surrounded by mountains, it’s easily accessible via Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), about 40 kilometers west of the city center.

Coordinates: 25.032969° N, 121.565418° E

🏯 Top Attractions in Taipei

🗼 Taipei 101

Once the tallest building in the world, this 508-meter skyscraper is Taipei’s most iconic landmark. Head up to the 89th-floor observatory for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Don’t forget to check out the massive wind damper, a marvel of engineering that stabilizes the building during typhoons and earthquakes.

🏞️ Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan)

For the best view of Taipei 101, hike up Elephant Mountain—just 15 minutes from the base to the main viewpoint. Time your climb for sunset and watch the city sparkle to life.

🏛️ National Palace Museum

Housing one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts in the world (over 700,000 pieces), this museum is a treasure trove of history. Highlights include ancient jade carvings and the famous Jadeite Cabbage.

🏮 Longshan Temple

Built in 1738, this historic temple in the Wanhua District is a peaceful retreat adorned with intricate wood carvings and incense-filled air. It's dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy (Guanyin) and serves as a spiritual hub for locals.

🌃 Night Markets and Local Life

🍜 Shilin Night Market

Taipei's most famous night market, Shilin, offers everything from stinky tofu to bubble tea. Be sure to try the giant fried chicken cutlet, grilled squid, and pearl milk tea. Bring cash, patience, and an adventurous appetite.

🧧 Raohe Street Night Market

More traditional and compact, Raohe Market is known for its pepper buns (胡椒餅) baked in tandoor-like ovens. It also offers clothing, accessories, and fortune-telling booths—all under rows of red lanterns.

🥢 Must-Try Taiwanese Foods

🍲 Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵)

Taipei’s national comfort food—rich broth, tender beef, and chewy noodles. Every restaurant claims a secret recipe, so sample a few!

🥟 Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)

Head to Din Tai Fung (original branch near Taipei 101) for world-famous dumplings bursting with savory broth.

🌿 Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice)

A home-style dish that’s deeply flavorful, featuring minced pork slow-cooked in soy sauce, spices, and served over rice.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Taipei

🏨 Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Taipei

Elegant and opulent, this 5-star hotel offers a refined blend of East and West, with spa services, fine dining, and grand interiors.

🏙️ Mid-Range: Hotel Proverbs Taipei

Trendy and centrally located in Da’an District, perfect for foodies and fashionistas. Great rooftop pool and bar.

🛌 Budget: Meander Taipei Hostel

Clean, friendly, and fun—this hostel near Ximending is ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.

🚇 Getting Around Taipei

Taipei’s MRT system is one of the most efficient in the world: clean, affordable, and bilingual (Chinese and English signage).
You can also use the EasyCard, a rechargeable card for MRT, buses, and even convenience stores.

Taxis are plentiful, but not all drivers speak English—carry your destination in Chinese characters.

🌄 Day Trips from Taipei

🏞️ Jiufen

A mountain village that inspired Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, Jiufen is just a 1-hour bus ride away. Wander its misty streets, visit teahouses with views of the Pacific, and sample taro balls.

💦 Beitou Hot Springs

Located just 30 minutes by MRT, Beitou is home to natural hot springs and the unique Thermal Valley, with steaming turquoise water. Relax in a public bathhouse or luxurious hot spring resort.

🌋 Yangmingshan National Park

Hike volcanic trails, soak in natural hot springs, and enjoy cherry blossoms in spring. Great for nature lovers and a peaceful escape from the city.

💡 Tips for First-Time Visitors

Language: Mandarin is widely spoken. English is common in tourist areas but limited in local shops.
Wi-Fi: Free public Wi-Fi (iTaiwan) is available in many places; most hotels and cafés also offer it.
Weather: Taipei is humid year-round. Best time to visit is October to April, when the weather is cooler and drier.
Etiquette: Show respect at temples—no photos in prayer areas, and dress modestly.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Taipei is a city that wears many faces—futuristic yet deeply rooted in tradition, fast-paced yet surrounded by tranquil mountains. Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or nature seeker, Taipei welcomes you with open arms and a bowl of warm noodle soup.

Come for the skyline, stay for the smiles.