Taipei has thrived since World War II, and is now world-renowned as a fun, diverse destination. Find restaurants and market stalls full of delicious and unusual foods as well as the contrasting worlds of the trendy urban population and the island’s ancient temples and traditions.
Take in the views of the city from the top of its tallest skyscraper, Taipei 101. From this spectacular vantage point you can make out landmarks such as the Confucius Temple or see how the Tamsui River dissects the cities of Taipei and New Taipei.
Visit Shilin Night Market and sample one of the many local specialties like noodle soup or roast duck. You’ll find a quieter atmosphere in the city’s many religious buildings. Visit Longshan Temple to admire the impressive dragon sculptures.
Taipei is hot and humid year round, so outdoor attractions like the Taipei Zoo and the Maokong tea-growing area to the east are always popular attractions. The latter is where you will also find the Maokong Gondola, which offers stunning views back across the city.
Use the city’s efficient public transport system to get you between other downtown attractions like the National Palace Museum, and the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
Tapei hosts year-round festivals, but time your visit with the Chinese New Year and you will be in for a treat. This is when the city comes alive with colourful parades, music and lanterns. The 5th month of the lunar calendar is when the dragon boat festival takes place and colourful vessels make their way up the river.
Regular flights from Hong Kong make Taipei an easy place to visit, and domestic flights within the island also run regularly.