Taipei the capital city of Taiwan is very famous because of Taipei 101 but this thriving land is more than just this tall building as there are lots of things to do in Taipei that is more than you can imagine. The city is very rich in history and culture that is evident in every corner of the place and tourist spots that you will visit.
1. National Palace Museum
This is one of the best places to visit in Taipei for a complete historical and cultural tour as it boasts a huge collection of Chinese art like paintings, ceramics, calligraphy, and religious objects. Inside is the most famous item which is the Jadeite Cabbage. You will get a pool of knowledge from diverse dynasties and even during the time of the Neolithic era.
2. Longshan Temple
Compared to other old Taipei attractions, the Longshan Temple has incurred several damages due to earthquakes, other natural disasters, and bombing during the Second World War that subject it to multiple rehabilitations over time. It managed to retain its bronze pillars located outside the front hall. You will hear the traditional hypnotic chants of worshipers if you will go to the temple around 8 in the morning until 5 in the afternoon.
3. Dihua Street
This old street in Taipei is popular for many Chinese Medicinal shops and markets especially the Lunar New Year sundry market. What to do in Taipei is not an issue if you will go to this part of the city as it is now filled with numerous cafes, restaurants, antique shops, and art studios to explore.
4. Hot Spring at Wulai
A small village on the outskirt of the city is Wulai and is one of the most popular places to visit in Taipei for its hot springs. There are myriad of hot spring hotels for you to choose from where you can spend hours of relaxation. If you do not want to spend, then opt for a more adventurous activity at the public hot spring situated along the riverside. Another activity to consider is a cable car ride going to the magnificent waterfall.
5. Maokong
A tea growing area not so far away from Taipei Zoo is Maokong. From the city center, you can take the MRT and ride the cable car to take you up to the mountain to reach Maokong. A very different from other things to do in Taipei is the experience of sipping a traditional homegrown tea while admiring the view of the entire city at any of the many restaurants or tea rooms. Try to visit the place before the sunset and grab some awesome photos.
6. Shilin Night Market
Your list of what to do in Taipei is not complete without buying something as memorabilia. You can go to Shilin if you want to experience something out of the extraordinary as there are shops that sell novelty items and clothes.
7. Yangmingshan National Park
This is known as the most picturesque park in Taiwan that is the proximity to the city center. It is one of the many amazing Taipei attractions that you can reach by riding the MRT going to Beitou and ride a bus to take you to the park’s information center. The highlight of the trip is its steaming fumaroles a reminder that it was an active volcano before.
8. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
The famous leader Chiang Kai-shek and his grandiose monument is a tourist magnet. The building was built using a neoclassical style that can be seen in its blue-roofed hall. Outside is a square that was named in 2007 as Liberty Square to commemorate Taiwan’s long journey to democracy. If you have plenty of things to do in Taipei, then keep in mind that the main hall is only open until 6 pm but the park is open up to midnight.
9. Huashan 1914 Creative Park
It was before a wine factory way back the 20th century and restored to become the country’s venue for retro-chic activities. The remodeled warehouse is now being used to hold live performances and place for pop up shops that sells locally made products.
10. Museum of Drinking Water
One of the most interesting places to visit in Taipei is the Museum of Drinking Water available during summertime only. It will give you detailed information about the history and the water treatment technology in Taipei. Aside from the knowledge, you will be amazed by its beautiful Baroque design, surrounding woodland and parkland.
