Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei blends Chinese traditions, Japanese influences, and modern innovation into one of Asia's most underrated capitals. The city that gave the world bubble tea and Din Tai Fung dumpling mastery offers night markets rivaling any in the region, hot springs in the surrounding mountains, and a creative energy expressed in everything from coffee culture to design hotels. Taipei 101 was once the world's tallest building; now it symbolizes a confident, democratic society with a distinct identity. Efficient, safe, and endlessly delicious, Taipei rewards curious travelers with discoveries around every corner.
Top Attractions in Taipei
- Night Markets — Taipei's night markets are legendary for street food, games, and shopping. Shilin is the largest and most famous; Raohe offers a long, narrow street of culinary treasures; Ningxia focuses on traditional Taiwanese foods. Stinky tofu, bubble tea, grilled squid, and shaved ice await adventurous eaters.
- Taipei 101 — The 508-meter bamboo-shaped tower was the world's tallest building from 2004-2010. Indoor and outdoor observation decks offer 360-degree views, while the massive tuned mass damper—a 660-ton golden sphere that stabilizes the tower—is an engineering marvel visitors can see.
- National Palace Museum — Housing treasures the Nationalists brought from mainland China, this museum contains one of the world's greatest collections of Chinese art—nearly 700,000 pieces spanning 8,000 years. The Jadeite Cabbage and Meat-Shaped Stone draw crowds, but the depth of bronzes, ceramics, and paintings is staggering.
- Jiufen — This atmospheric hillside town an hour from Taipei inspired scenes in Spirited Away with its narrow lanes, red lanterns, and teahouses perched over coastal views. Despite the crowds, the old mining town's ambiance—especially at dusk—creates genuine magic. Try taro balls at A-Mei Tea House.
- Beitou Hot Springs — Taipei's former Japanese hot spring resort district remains a popular escape from the city. The restored Beitou Hot Spring Museum explains the area's history, while public baths and hotel spas offer various soaking experiences in the mineral-rich thermal waters.
Travel Info
- Best time to visit: October to December, March to May
- Average temperature: 23°C (73°F) annual average
- Currency: TWD (Dollar)
Typical Costs
- Quick Lunch (Beef Noodle Soup): NT$120 – NT$200
- Dinner (Mid-range Restaurant): NT$400 – NT$800
- Coffee (Bubble Tea): NT$50 – NT$100
- MRT (Single Ride): NT$20 – NT$65
- Airport Transfer (MRT to City): NT$160