Taipei is a beautiful city with a lot of things to do and places of interest. The capital of Taiwan has a bit of everything for tourists who want to experience a bustling metropolis, accessible small towns, nature trips and local markets. Filling your itinerary with interesting activities will come easy.
If you’re planning to visit Taipei, here are destinations to include in your Taiwan itinerary.
Taipei 101
This towering building is a city icon; Taipei 101 is easily recognisable among the many buildings in the city’s cityscape. The structure’s distinct design grabs the attention of tourists and makes a lasting impression. Go up the viewing deck at night to see the galaxy-like lights of the metropolis.
Yangmingshan National Park
The city’s frenetic lifestyle and pace may tire visitors; escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis by going on a day trip to Yangmingshan National Park. The park has many sections and trails worth following.
You might be the only person in the forest when you follow a certain path through Yangmingshan. Soak in the cool, fresh breeze and just leave your worries behind while experiencing Mother Nature. Some buses travel from one point to another in Yangmingshan.
It is tourist-friendly with toilets and some shops to quench your thirst or satiate your hunger.
Longshan Temple
This city icon is a popular destination for both locals and visitors. It was in ruins after bombings by the Allied Forces during World War II. After the dust and feelings of war cleared, the community decided to rebuild it from the ground up.
Fast forward to today, the temple is bustling with crowds of people praying, leaving their offerings or just marvelling at its beautiful architecture.
Get Lost in the Markets
Taipei is a concrete jungle with everything you are looking for in a modern city, despite these, you can still get a glimpse of its past. The local night markets provide a wormhole into how the city was before. Try all sorts of street food (stinky tofu is an exotic and popular choice), look for bargains on apparel and knickknacks, or just get lost in nostalgia while weaving in and out of the narrow alleys.
Explore Shifen
Shifen is an easy day trip from Taipei; this destination has some noteworthy attractions. Walk along the old railway town while poking in and out of the quaint shops and cafes. Write your wishes on a lantern before lighting it and letting it fly.
After exploring the old town, go to Shifen Waterfall for pictures and follow it trails for a leisurely day out.
Go Up Elephant Mountain
After getting lost in Taipei’s urban jungle, go up Elephant Mountain to see the city in all its concrete glory and mess. The trail is easy but still requires effort and a level of fitness from visitors. Once you reach the viewing area, you will see the bustling metropolis below you with Taipei 101 as the centrepiece.
Taipei has more to offer visitors than what one can put on a list. These are suggestions for your planned trip. Visit the city to experience all that it can offer.
