Taipei – the largest city in Taiwan has once served as the de facto capital of the republic of China. Although a major part of Taipei belongs to the industrial area, there are still many interesting tourist places to see. A visit to some of these places and you know what the city is all about. With more industries coming up, the city still remains the political, economic and cultural center of the country.
Museums
For those interesting in exploring history and knowing more what past Taipei still holds, there are several different kinds of museums and educational centers.
1. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
This one of the most remarkable monuments of Taipei memorial was built in memory of Chiang Kai-shek who was the former president of the republic of China. Besides an impressive statue of the president, there is a museum also exhibiting his photographs and other personal possessions.
After visiting this memorial, take time to walk to the National Theater and Concert Hall which is located close by, on the grounds of the Chiang Kai-shek.
2. Peitou Folk Art Museum
Originally a Japanese military officers’ club, Peitou Folk Art Museum was built in the early 1900s. During this time, Taiwan was occupied by Japanese. Thereafter this spot served as a special resort meant for high profile people like diplomats and governors. It was in 1983 that this building was changed into the present day museum with six exhibition rooms displaying traditional folk, art clothing and Peitou-related items.
3. National Palace Museum
This National Palace Museum is an art museum, situated in Taipei. A large number of visitors are attracted to this place as has a huge collection of more than 650,000 pieces of ancient Chinese artifacts. The most interesting fact is that most pieces showcased here are collected by the ancient emperors of China. As per the survey done in 2008, the National Palace Museum was the 15th most visited museum of the world.
4. Taipei Fine Arts Museum
Established in December 24th, 1983, the Taipei Fine Arts Museum is a museum that mostly showcases the artworks done by Taiwanese artists.
5. National Taiwan Museum
National Taiwan Museum is the oldest museum of Taiwan that was established in 1908. The museum now serves the public as an educational establishment only.
Temples
Though there are several temples but Bao’an Temple is the most visited one. This Taoist temple was actually built in 1830 to dedicate to the god of medicine but during Japanese rule, its site was treated as a language school. Later the site was refurnished and given the form of a proper temple. Longshan Temple, Taipei Confucian Temple, Xiahai City God Temple and Zhinan Temple are the other known temples in Taipei.
Parks and night market places
Apart from these buildings, Taipei has several parks and night market places to visit. Daan Forest Park (Taipei Central Park), Taipei Botanical Garden and 228 Peace Park are some of the famous parks in Taipei.
Amongst many night markets, the Shilin Night Market is the most famous one. As evening sets in, the surrounding streets by Shilin Night Market become extremely crowded. Most of these markets open around 4 pm and keep operating till late night. Ximending is another famous area for shopping and entertainment in Taipei.
Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is the one of the tallest buildings of the world that the city boasts. Although its position of being the “world’s tallest building” was challenged by Burj Dubai on the 21st of July, 2007, Taipei 101 still retains that title.
To explore the city in an organized way, draw out a complete Taipei travel itinerary including the key things you want to do. Book a Taipei hotel of your choice taking your travel plan as well as budget into consideration. Also check out Taipei hotel reviews posted by travelers like you so that your stay in this great city is comfortable and thoroughly enjoyable.