Taipei is the Republic of China’s (or Taiwan’s) capital city. Located in East Asia, it is one of Asia’s most popular tourist destinations and for several reasons. Besides the numerous tourist sites, it is also Taiwan’s cultural, political, educational, and economic centre. When many people hear of Taipei, they think of Taipei 101, what was once the tallest building in the world. However, there is a lot more to Taipei than that. Here are some great reasons you should add ‘Visit Taipei’ to your bucket list.
The architecture.
When you visit Taipei, there are some remarkable architectural landmarks you do not want to miss. First, there is the world-renowned Taipei 101. From there, stop by Dr Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall, which has managed to blend traditional Taiwanese architectural forms with modern architecture. Next, take the MRT to Taipei Main Station and witness another blend of traditional Taiwanese architecture with the modern. Even if you are not staying at the Grand Hotel, don’t hesitate to stop by just for the view. This fantastic building has played host to many famous dignitaries from around the world.
There are hundreds of Temples in Taipei, and it is highly recommended that you take your time to visit some of them. You will see some jaw-dropping temples such as the Longshan Temple, one of the town’s oldest temples dating back to 1738, Bangka Qingshan Temple, Bangka Qingshui Temple, and Taipei Tianhou Temple, among many more
Great destinations to have fun with kids
One of the biggest fears some parents have when travelling with their kids is that there won’t be enough fun places to take their kids. Here are two examples of kid-friendly destinations to take your kids when in Taipei.
The Modern Toilet Restaurant
Not for everyone, but your kids will definitely marvel at this toilet-themed restaurant. They sit on toilets to eat, look through toilet-themed menus, and eat and drink from toilet-themed paraphernalia. This is a visit they will want to tell their friends about.
The Taipei Children’s Amusement Park
What’s not to love about a children’s amusement park. They will get to play in the playgrounds, enjoy more than ten fairground rides, and visit the children’s theatre. Some of the rides you and your kids can enjoy include bumper cars, the carousel, the Ferris wheel, and the spinning teacups. What’s more, there are some indoor activities available too for those days when it rains.
Interact with nature
If you love being out in nature, there are some places you would enjoy in Taipei. For example, you could visit the Da’an Forest Park. Here, you will find a serene environment to walk in as you see some of the animals such as egrets, turtles, squirrels, and ducks. If you have kids, you can all enjoy a wonderful day at the Taipei Zoo, one of Asia’s largest zoos. You will get to see many wonderful animals such as lions, giraffes, elephants, and pandas. If you love to hike, you could also go hiking up the Elephant Mountain. The hike provides good exercise to burn off all the fantastic food you will get to try in Taipei, and the view at the top is absolutely amazing.
Go shopping
There are two alternatives available for you when it comes to shopping in Taipei. First, you could visit actual shops to do your shopping. For example, you could do your shopping in Taipei 101 in some brand shops like Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior. You could also visit Core Pacific Living Mall, the underground East Metro Mall, or Ximending and shop till you drop. If you are a tech lover, please consider visiting the Guanghua Market and peruse through all the amazing technological devices they have to offer.
Alternatively, you could also do your shopping in the night markets. Taipei is famous for them, and they are one of Taipei’s greatest tourist attractions. The vendors are able to turn normal, ordinary streets into colorful places for shopping, eating, and interacting. Whether you want food, accessories, or clothes, you can find them in the night markets. Some famous night markets are Shi Lin and Liaoning.
The food.
Food lovers will not feel left out in Taipei. There are so many foods to try here, don’t be surprised if your clothes fit a little tighter when you go home. First, there is a lot of street foods you can try. Second, the night markets allow the Taiwanese people to showcase their delicious delicacies to the people, including tourists. For example, the Liaoning market is famous for the comprehensive array of seafood they serve. Third, many restaurants are littering the town, markets, and shopping centres; you will be spoilt for choice.
The nightlife
If you are going to Taipei to party, you will soon understand why Taipei is known as the city that never sleeps. Whatever music makes you want to move, there is probably a club playing it in Taipei. You will get to experience all-night clubbing followed by a morning metro ride home. Visit the 45 Pub, explore the Barcode, or M Taipei or the other clubs around and dance your worries away.
The lantern Festival
This is another thing that attracts many people to Taipei. Marking the end of the Chinese New year celebrations, the festival is one you may not want to miss. Taiwan’s tourism bureau hosts the famous Taiwan Lantern Festival every year. It is a spectacular event and many people, tourists, included, flock into Taipei to witness the beautiful high-tech light displays and the blend of culture and folk-art.
The weather
Just like most of Taiwan, Taipei experiences favourable weather year-round. It is warm during most of the year, but it does experience a mild winter and light spring rains. This makes Taipei one of the best tourist destinations all year round as far as the weather is concerned.
The fantastic thing is, this article does not cover all of the fantastic things you could see in Taipei. For example, there is a market specifically for book lovers. The people are also very friendly. These and more reasons are why you should consider getting your Cathay Pacific flight tickets and boarding that plane to Taipei. It’s time to make some amazing memories.
