North Taiwan – The Best Things To Do in Taipei
The capital city of the beautiful island nation of Taiwan offers an enchanting tapestry of sights, sounds and flavours to captivate any traveller. Make sure you don’t miss the hidden treasures of Taipei’s historical neighbourhoods and modern landmarks such as the iconic Taipei 101, with its sweeping city views.
In this post, we dive into the best things to do in Taipei, but there is so much more to do in the surrounding areas – don’t forget to check out my guide to the best day trips from Taipei.
Sweeping Views
One of my favourite things to do in any city is to find a high point which offers sweeping views of the nearby area. There are a few such points in Taipei and the surrounding mountains serve as the perfect backdrop for Instagramable pictures!
Taipei 101
The iconic Taipei 101 was once the world’s tallest building. Whilst it may have lost that title some time ago, the tower still offers panoramic views over Taipei. The observatory deck is on the 89th floor, which you’ll reach within 37 seconds in one of the world’s fastest elevators.
You can buy your tickets on the 5th floor of the 101 shopping mall – just head to the 4th floor and follow the signs for the observatory. Alternatively, buy your ticket online here. Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass holders can enter for free – simply head to the Taipei Fun Pass redemption machine.
Note: children under 115 cm tall get free entry with a paying adult.
Maokong Gondola
You can find the bottom station for the Maokong gondola beside the Taipei Zoo MRT station. The cable car takes you 4km up into the mountains with incredible views over the city.
On your way up the mountain, stop at Zhinan Temple station to admire one of Taiwan’s most famous Taoist temples which also boasts an incredible view over Taipei. Then, continue on to Maokong, where you can enjoy the afternoon in a traditional tea house, or simply explore some of the area’s hiking trails.
Two rides on the gondola are free for Taipei Fun Pass holders (e.g. exit at one station on the way up and then take a ride back down the mountain). You can also buy two rides plus entry to Taipei Zoo here.
Note: Before you go, do check the ‘Operation Bulletin’ section of the Taipei Maokong Gondola website, as the gondola may be closed during high winds.
Shrines, Temples & Memorial Halls
One of the most enchanting things to do in Taiwan is to visit some of the many shrines, temples and memorial halls. Although it can be hard to miss some of the smaller temples dotted all around the city, there are a few must-see places that really highlight the beauty and immaculate detailing of Taiwanese temple architecture.
Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
Boasting a 16m high statue of the late President of the Republic of China, the hall is flanked by the National Theatre and National Concert Hall, as well as several beautiful gates.
You can climb the 89 steps (representing the president’s age at the time of his death) to reach the upper level. Alternatively, take the elevator from the ground level, where you will also find a small gift shop.
The changing of the guard takes place on the hour between 9 am and 5 pm. Also, stop by the gallery and museum which documents Shek’s life and career.
Finally, check out the grounds surrounding the hall. Here you will find a koi carp pond which is home to several terrapins and is often frequented by small herons.
National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine
Another great option for those wanting to watch the changing of the guards, this shrine is a memorial for the soldiers who died in the war against mainland China. The changing of the guard takes place every hour until 5 pm and lasts around 20 minutes.
Dalongdong Bao’an Temple
Dedicated to the Taoist saint Baoshen Dadi, this temple received a UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Culture Conservation in 2003. You will find numerous ornate shrines, carved columns and colourful detailing all around.
This is also the perfect temple to visit on a rainy day as its walkways are covered, allowing you to enjoy its various shrines without getting wet. Behind the main temple, accessed from the rear corners of the courtyard, you can find a 4 storey building, which is home to the temple’s library. Make sure not to miss the 4th floor for views over the temple’s roof. Here you will also find another impressive shrine.
Between April and June, the Baoshen Cultural Festival Festival is celebrated with parades, fire-walking rituals and lion dances. See the website for a schedule of events.
Another great thing about Bao’an Temple is that it is just across the road from another beautiful Temple – Taipei Confucius Temple (see below).
Taipei Confucius Temple
Built in 1879, Taipei Confucius Temple is dedicated to Confucius, the esteemed Chinese philosopher whose teachings laid the foundations for Confucianism over 2,500 years ago.
The temple’s architectural beauty and serene ambience make it a popular destination for those looking to learn about the Confucianism system, which emphasizes the importance of moral values, respect for traditions and the pursuit of personal and societal harmony.
Do note that Taipei Confucius Temple is closed on Mondays.
Mengjia Longshan Temple
Possibly one of the most iconic temples in Taipei, Longshan Temple was built in 1738 and honours the Goddess of Mercy. Situated in Wanhua District, you can find a waterfall, koi carp pond, beautifully carved columns and colourful lanterns here. The temple and waterfalls are illuminated at night, making it worth a visit during both day and night.
Due to the temple being so popular with worshippers and tourists alike, it can get quite busy at times. The condition and colouring of the buildings aren’t quite as impressive as Dalongdong Bao’an Temple, where the shrines are more ornate. So, If you only have time to visit one, opt for Bao’an temple!
If you do visit Longshan Temple, also head a little further down the road and check out the restored Bopiliao Historical Block, which was once home to various merchants. Here you will find information and exhibitions about the coal market, pattern making, printing and more.
Between Longshan Temple and the historical block, you can find Herb Alley (Lane 224 of Xichang Street). This is another small area retaining some of its original design and function, in contrast to the surrounding areas which have since been redeveloped. A few information boards display information about the “barefoot quacks” (vendors) and the herbs they sold.
National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall
Dedicated to the founder of the Republic of China, this memorial hall is surrounded by Zhongshan Park, which is home to Lake Cui (also known as Emerald Pond).
Museums
Whether you are looking for things to do in Taipei when it is raining, or simply wish to learn more about the history of Taiwan, there are a whole host of museums for you to choose from. However, do note that most museums are closed on Mondays.
National Taiwan Museum and Land Bank Exhibition Hall
The National Taiwan Museum is a small but well-curated museum housed in a beautiful heritage building. Exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, including the history of Taiwan and its indigenous tribes, Taiwan’s financial system and a little about the building itself.
Tickets also include entry to the Land Bank Exhibition Hall, which is situated across the road. Here you can see numerous fossils and an impressive exhibition about dinosaurs.
Behind the National Taiwan Museum, you can find the 228 Peace Memorial Park. Dedicated to the 228 Massacre, the park is home to the 228 Peace Monument as well as pagodas and ponds. If you are interested in learning more about the massacre, you can also visit the National 228 Memorial Museum, which is a 20-minute walk to the south of the park.
Presidential Office Building
A short 8-minute walk to the south of the National Taiwan Museum, you can find the impressive Presidential Office Building. Free tours are available Mon – Fri at 9.30 am and 11 am.
The Miniatures Museum of Taiwan
Asia’s first contemporary miniature art museum contains architecturally accurate dollhouses and famous buildings from around the world, on a 1:12 scale. The museum founders first came across miniature art in Amsterdam and have since procured hundreds of pieces of works from Europe and America.
National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum is home to almost 700,00 ancient Chinese artefacts and artworks, as well as books and scrolls dating back to the 10th century. The museum shop is one of the largest I have ever visited.
You have the option to buy a combined ticket and learn about Taiwan’s Aboriginals at the nearby Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines. Between the two sites, you will find Zhishan Garden and Indigenous People’s Park where you can enjoy beautiful ponds, pavillions and artwork.
Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence
Just a short bus ride from the National Palace Museum, the Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence allows you to delve into the private life of President Chiang Kai-Shek and his wife. You can learn about how the couple used the various rooms of the house as well as some of the important figures that dined there with them.
Entry costs 100 TWD and includes an informative audio tour which guides you through the house. You can also enjoy a stroll through the beautifully manicured Shilin Residence gardens for free.
Old Taipei Police Department
The Old Taipei Police Department features several exhibits which make use of AR and Kinect technology which brings a modern twist to this traditional building from the Japanese colonial era.
Whilst some displays are only in Chinese, there is enough English for you to learn about Taiwan’s democratic and social movements. You can also learn about the incredible attention to detail which went into restoring the building to its former glory.
Make sure you don’t miss the prison cells and the water jail, where prisoners were unable to sit or stand as a form of punishment.
Admission is free and, once you have finished exploring, you can enjoy some nice refreshments in the comfortable cafe.
Hiking Trails
The scenery is what made Taipei such a special destination for me and there are so many hiking trails to do in Taiwan. Here I list just a couple of the trails which are accessible from Taipei, for those who don’t fancy heading further afield.
The Ziazhulin Hiking Trail
Located in Tienmu, the Xiazhulin Hiking Trail is home to a long and steep stairway leading to a flat trail winding through the trees. Simply take the MRT to Shilin Station and then take a bus to Tienmu. From the bus stop, walk north (up the hill) towards the trees until you see a sign for the trail.
As you approach the top of the hill, you will find Taipei’s original water system, originally built by the Japanese. If you do see any monkeys, be careful not to provoke them as they can be aggressive.
Elephant Mountain
A 15-20 minute (one way) starting near Taipei 101. The trail is steep but it provides great views over the city.
Shopping
Ximending District
A bustling shopping district which is home to various stores and an array of street performances, Ximending is the place to go for some retail therapy. You can also find a whole host of food vendors and milk tea shops to refuel after a long day of shopping.
Dihua Street
Dihua Street is home to shops selling dried fruit, nuts and fungi with some more modern souvenir shops dotted along the way. The street is full of traditional buildings which will help you to feel as though you have been transported back in time.
Make sure to stop at the visitor centre to learn a little about the street’s importance, as well as the Taipei Xiahai City God Temple.
You can also find a variety of tea and coffee shops on the side streets. Some of my favourites were in Lane 239 and Lane 14 (which are next to each other).
If you are lucky enough to visit when the famous pork ball soup is being sold in the street, make sure not to miss out as it is delicious and cheap! Alternatively, you can find dishes such as sailfish rice noodles, shrimp roll with rice or mackerel soup at the food stands near Yongle Fabric Market.
Huayin Street
If the traditional vibe isn’t for you and you are looking for a more modern and touristy shopping street, head to the colourful Huayin Street. Here you will find various souvenir shops and leather goods – don’t forget to also check out the side streets and the nearby Taipei City Mall.
Taipei City Mall
Also known as Taipei Underground Market, Taipei City Mall stretches for over 825 meters and is home to various food, games and souvenir shops. It also connects several MRT stations, making it the perfect place to escape the elements as you make your way around the city.
Night Markets
One of the best ways to enjoy cheap food in Taipei has to be at the night markets. You’ll find a whole selection of treats to try, as well as various other items that you may need!
Of all the night markets that I visited, my favourite was Sanhe Night Market. It is one of the less touristy markets due to its position to the west of the river but it is huge! Aside from the myriad of food options, you will also find a whole host of clothing, underwear and shoe stores as well as numerous nail and massage salons in the area. Whilst you are there, head down Wenhua N Road to find a small but beautiful temple.
Jianguo Jade Market
Taipei is home to a whole host of shops selling jewellery and figures made from precious and semi-precious stones. Whether you want to own a piece for yourself, or simply admire some of the incredible craftsmanship, head to Jianguo Jade Market (weekends only). There are so many stalls, you can easily spend a whole morning or afternoon here – just make sure you haggle if you do decide to buy something!
Conclusion
Taipei is an amazing city with something for everyone. From lively night markets filled with delicious food to serene temples steeped in history, there’s an authentic experience waiting around every corner. I hope you enjoy your time in this fabulous city – don’t forget to check out my list of the best day trips from Taipei whenever you’re ready to escape the bustle of the city.
