Taipei
Taiwan’s capital city is never short of pleasant surprises
Taipei’s skyline | munduuk / Shutterstock
Taipei is certainly a city of contrast. One moment you’re haggling at a stall that has been in the same spot for at least five generations, the next you’re in a world of neon and glass skyscrapers, including a former world’s tallest. This is a place where the temples squeeze in next to the busy night markets and the pace is rarely slow.
Begin in Ximending, a pedestrian-friendly shopping district that often draws comparisons to Tokyo’s famous Harajuku district. It’s a great spot to get to grips with Taipei’s culture, with indie boutiques, street performers and vintage art, clothes and coffee all within strolling distance.
While you’re over that way, Longsham Temple is a must. Taipei’s oldest and definitely most atmospheric Buddhist temple is still packed with local worshippers. Stop by, enjoy some peace and breathe in the incense.
Now you’ve had a taste of Taipei’s past on the ground, it’s time to head up into the clouds to get any idea of its present and future. Taipei 101, once the world’s tallest building, has a high speed elevator that whisks visitors up to the observatory near the top. Once your ears have finished popping enjoy the panoramic views that shows the sprawl of the city and the mountains and sea beyond.
After your visit, drop by the Shin King Mitsukoshi department store for some high-end shopping and the usual ultra-fashionable clothes you’ll be used to if you regularly shop in Asia. When your bags are getting heavy and your stomach is rumbling, follow the locals to the Tonghua Night Market just around the corner.
The guidebooks will tell you to go to Shilin night market, but you’ll soon this less touristy alternative instantly feels more authentic. Check out the lu rou fan (braised pork rice) or the pepper buns, both delicious.
On the subject of food, Taipei doesn’t mess around. Leave enough time and stomach space for Din Tai Fung on Xinyi Road, the flagship location of the now globally renowned chain of dumpling restaurants. It’s worth any queues you encounter.
If you want a more traditional Taiwanese meal, then try Addiction Aquatic Development, an upscale seafood market-meets-sushi bar that serves up anything and everything you’ll find in Taiwan’s waters, probably caught earlier that day.
If Taipei’s busy streets become overwhelming, then remember your hiking boots. Elephant Mountain is a moderate 20-minute climb that rewards hikers with some epic views of the city. Further out lies Beitou, a hot spring with Japanese-era bathhouses. Hop on the MRT to get there or book a Beitou tour with transfers.
If you’ve got additional time, then take a gondola to Maokong, where the hills are lined with traditional tea plantations. Tea is still a major deal in Taipei, so pick some up to take home.
Clean, safe, fascinating and full of surprises, you can easily snack and stroll your way around this busy capital without seeing the same thing twice.
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