Taipei is a blend of ultramodern and the traditional – experiencing a cultural renaissance
TAIPEI, TAIWAN: This island may not yet rival some of the most traditional hotspots. However, travel trends shift and more people seek authentic, diverse, and enriching experiences.Travelers from Europe and the US soon find that Taiwan is an emerging destination in years to the come. And capital Taipei will be the next big thing to explore.
Why visit Taiwan
Taiwan has a unique blend of Chinese culture, ethnic traditions, and Japanese influences. Temples, historical sites, and traditional festivals, making it a culturally rich destination. Capital Taipei is famous for its street food and night markets.
The country boasts stunning landscapes, mountains, hot springs, and coastal areas. Places like Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, and Alishan provide opportunities for hiking, relaxing, and enjoying nature, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
Taiwan has high-speed trains and convenient public transport in cities like Taipei. This makes it easy for travelers to explore different regions of the island.
Taipei is blend of ultramodern and traditional experiences, making it one of Asia’s captivating destinations. The city is currently experiencing a cultural renaissance, with new creative parks, innovative restaurants, and vibrant art scenes emerging alongside ancient temples and traditional markets. Taiwan´s capital is the next big thing!
Must-See Attractions
Taipei 101 – Once the world’s tallest building, offering spectacular city views.
National Palace Museum – Housing the world’s largest collection of Chinese artifacts.
Longshan Temple – A stunning 18th-century Buddhist temple.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall – Impressive architecture and changing of the guard ceremony.
Beitou Hot Springs – Natural thermal springs in a Japanese-style setting.
Major Night Markets
Shilin Night Market – The largest and most famous. Over 500 vendors. Specialities: Fried chicken cutlets, oysters omelette, stinky tofu, bubble tea.
Raohe Street Night Market – 600m long. Known for traditional snacks. Famous for meat buns, herbal soup, grilled seafood. Historic Ciyou at entrance.
Ningxia Night Market – Popular with locals and for traditional Taiwanese snacks. Specialities: Meatballs, grilled squid, and Oysters vermicelli – a noodle soup with oysters and misua (chinese vermicelli).
Huaxi Street – also known as “Snake Alley”, famous for exotic foods, focus on traditional medicine and seafood.
New food with traditions
What makes Taipei’s night markets special is density, variety, and deep cultural roots. While other cities in Taiwan and Asia have night markets, Taipei’s are unique for several reasons, as a cultural institution.
The vendors constantly create new foods while preserving traditions.
Quality control – Strict health inspections, Visible vendor licenses, while maintaining authenticity. The accessibility – public transport to most markets.
The food price: Generally, 30-50% cheaper than restaurants, small portions encourage trying multiple items, and competitive pricing between vendors.
Opening: Mostly 4pm to midnight, peak hours 7-11pm. Testing ground for new food trends, preserve traditional recipes and mix old and ny food techniques.
Three Top Restaurants
Mume. Known for innovative approach, blending flavors and techniques from Nordic and Asian culinary traditions, makes a unique dining experience. The price level is high-end. Address: No. 28, Siwei Road, Taipei.
Din Tai Fung (Original Xinyi Branch). World-famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings)
Address: No. 194, Section 2, Xinyi Road
Raw – Best in Taiwan. A contemporary dining experience with a focus on innovative and artistic dishes. Fresh, local ingredients, often presenting them in visually stunning ways. Awarded the best restaurant in Taiwan.
The price level on the higher end, serving a tasting menu from 60 USD that showcases the chef’s creativity.
Address: No. 301, Section 2, Jianguo South Road, Taipei.
Walking Tours
Historical Dadaocheng. Duration: 3-4 hours
Route: Dihua Street → Taipei Xiahai City God Temple – Old Merchant Houses. Focus: Architecture, tea houses, fabric markets.
Modern Taipei Circuit. Duration: 2-3 hours. Route: Taipei 101 – Xiangshan Hiking Trail – Elephant Mountain viewpoint. Focus: City views, modern architecture.
Cultural Heritage Walk. Duration: 4 hours.
Route: Longshan Temple – Bopiliao Historical Block – Ximen Red House
Focus: Religious sites, colonial architecture
Shopping Guide Taipei
Fashion Districts: Ximending – Youth fashion and street style
ATT 4 FUN – High-end international brands. East District (Dong Qu) – Luxury boutiques and department stores
Price Levels
Budget meal: NT$100-200 ($3-7 USD)
Mid-range restaurant: NT$300-600 ($10-20 USD)
Luxury dining: NT$2000+ ($65+ USD)
Public transport: NT$20-65 per trip ($0.65-2 USD)
Hotel room: NT$2000-8000 ($65-260 USD)
Local Perspective
While cross-strait tensions with China make headlines, daily life in Taipei continues normally. Locals maintain their routines while being pragmatically prepared, like how Tokyo residents view earthquake awareness. The city’s vibrant democracy, night markets, and cultural activities continue to bloom.
Travel Tips
– Purchase an EasyCard for convenient public transport
– Download the Metro Taipei app for navigation
– Learn basic Mandarin phrases (though English is widely used in tourist areas)
– Visit temples early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
– Make restaurant reservations for high-end dining
– Carry cash as some smaller establishments don’t accept cards
Out of the city to Jiufen
A trip to Jiufen Old Street is a good alternative. Located in the mountainous region, near the city of Ruifang in New Taipei City. Originally a thriving mining town, today a picturesque streets, traditional architecture, and colorful atmosphere.
Renowned for its variety of street food, local snacks and to taste authentic Taiwanese cuisine. Jiufen is perched on a hillside, providing stunning views of mountains and the East China Sea. The view, especially at sunset, is breathtaking.
Historic charm
Jiufen Old Street has preserved much of its historical charm, with narrow alleyways, traditional tea houses, and souvenir shops. Visitors can explore the rich culture and history reflected in the architecture and local crafts.
The picturesque setting has inspired various forms of art, and a popular spot for photographers and artists.
Streets are decorated with traditional red lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere in the evening when they are lit. This boosts the charm of the old streets.
Getting to Jiufen
Jiufen is easily accessible from Taipei via public transportation, making it a popular day trip destination. Many visitors combine their visit with nearby attractions like the gold mining town of Jinguashi.
Traveling from Taipei City to Jiufen by train and bus: Take the train (TRA) from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station. The journey takes about 40 minutes. From Ruifang transfer to a local bus. Look for the Keelung Bus No. 788 or 1062, which go to Jiufen. The bus ride takes about 15-30 minutes.
By Car or Taxi: The drive from Taipei to Jiufen takes about an hour, depending on traffic. Following the scenic coastal route (Highway 2).
By Tour Group: Tour companies offer packages that include transport with sightseeing and meals. This option is convenient if you want a guided experience.
Not to Forget
Taiwan is known for its safety and welcoming attitude towards tourists. The friendliness of the locals and the overall sense of hospitality create a positive travel experience.
One thing to consider: The subtropical climate can be challenging, with hot, humid summers (June-August) and a monsoon season (May-September). Plan your visit during October-April for more comfortable weather.
