TAIPEI TRAVEL
GENERAL INFORMATION- Taipei is the national capital of Taiwan. It is in the northern most part of the island. The fourth largest administrative area of Taiwan, after New Taipei, Kaohsiung and Taichung. Taipei serves as the island's financial, cultural and governmental centre. Taipei can boast for natural abundance of world-class, volcanically activated hot water springs on their doorstep. The area around Beitou, supplied naturally by the geothermal energy of neighbouring Yang Ming Shan (presently active volcano) became an obvious location for the bathhouses and intimate hotels.
HISTORY- The region known as the Taipei Basin was home to Ketagalan tribes before the eighteenth century. Han Chinese mainly from Fujian Province of Qing dynasty China began to settle in the Taipei Basin in 1709.
GEOGRAPHY- Taipei City is located in the Taipei Basin in northern Taiwan. The Xindian River on the south and the Tamsui River on the west border it. Two peaks, Qixing Mountain and Mt. Datun, rise to the northeast of the city. Taipei has been at the centre of rapid economic development in the country and has now become one of the global cities in the production of high technology and its components.
AREA- 271.80 km2 (104.94 sq. mi)
POPULATION- 27,05,000
CO-ORDINATES-25°02′N 121°38′E
TIME ZONE-UTC+8
CLIMATE- The summers here are hot and humid with heavy rain and typhoons. Winter here is warm and foggy. From June to October the Pacific Typhoon affects Taipei. Winter is the driest, but coolest season in Taipei.
MONTH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Av High 19 20 22 26 29 32 34 34 31 27 24 20
Av Low 14 14 16 19 22 25 26 26 25 22 20 16
Rainsmm 83.21 70.31 80.41 77.82 34.5 325.92 45.13 22.13 60.51 48.90 83.1 73.30
AIRPORT- Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (IATA: TPE) is the primary international airport of Taiwan located 40 km to the southwest of Taipei. Kaohsiung International and Taipei Songshan also serves extensive flights throughout Asia.Direct flights are available to North America, Europe and Oceania. The airport is connected to Taipei by Taoyuan Airport MRT, as well as to HSR Taoyuan Station. Alternatively, there are regular bus services to Taipei, Taichung, HSR Taoyuan Station and more. The freeway buses ply the route, picking up and dropping off passengers at most of the five star hotels. It also stops at the Taipei Main Station and Songshan Airport. There are also bus services connecting the airport to nearby cities and Taichung in central Taiwan. There are five transportation options at the airport: MRT, bus, AirPoPo: Taoyuan Airport Shuttle , taxi, and pre-arranged sedan.
i- Taoyuan Airport MRT- The line is the only rail line that connects the airport to the city directly. Two trains run every 15 minutes between 6:00 to 23:00, one Express (The top half of the front-end is coated in purple) and one Commuter (The top half of the front-end is coated in blue). The trip length is 37 minutes from Terminal 2 to Taipei by Express. Single-trip fares to Taipei for both train types are NT$160. One can buy a single ticket at the station from the kiosk, or use a rechargeable IC card. At the airport terminal, the station is located in the underground levels. Note that eating and drinking is prohibited past the fare gates. Airport Terminal 2 Station serves as the interchange point with eastbound heading Taipei Main Station, and southbound heading Zhongli Railway Station while passing by Taoyuan HSR Station. The route totals 53 km in length, MRT comprises 24 stations, including 15 elevated stations, 9 underground stations. The train has a maximum operating speed of 100km/h. Ticketing machine with touch-screen sells single-journey ticket and contactless smart card. There is also staff to sell the tickets. Commuter Train stops every station.
www.taoyuan-airport.com/english/taoyuan_metro
ii- Taipei Airport Shuttles- From Taoyuan Taipei Airport to Taichung and Taipei, AirPoPo costs 1/3 the price of Taoyuan Airport taxi and takes shorter transportation time than Taipei Taoyuan Airport MRT. AirPoPo also provide Taiwan Taoyuan Airport (TPE) to Taipei Downtown pickup service and a shuttle seat can be booked 15 minutes before you come out of Taiwan Taipei Airport Customs.
https://www.airpopo.com/en/taiwan
TAIPEI METRO- Taipei Metro, is a rapid transit system serving metropolitan Taipei. It consists of 108 stations and 5 main routes and 2 branch lines, operating on 131.1-kilometre track. It first began operations in 1996. The MRT system operates from 6 am to midnight daily. Trains operate at intervals of 1.5 to 15 minutes depending on the line and time of day. RFID single journey tokens and rechargeable IC cards are used. There are Travel Passes for One Day, 24/48/72 hours. Fares range from NT$20 to NT$65 with most locations accessible for around NT$20–30.
http://english.metro.taipei/ct.asp?xItem=1056373&CtNode=70241&mp=122036
http://mapa-metro.com/en/Taiwan/Taipei/Taipei-MRT-map.htm
SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS AT TAIPEI-
HISTORY- The region known as the Taipei Basin was home to Ketagalan tribes before the eighteenth century. Han Chinese mainly from Fujian Province of Qing dynasty China began to settle in the Taipei Basin in 1709.
GEOGRAPHY- Taipei City is located in the Taipei Basin in northern Taiwan. The Xindian River on the south and the Tamsui River on the west border it. Two peaks, Qixing Mountain and Mt. Datun, rise to the northeast of the city. Taipei has been at the centre of rapid economic development in the country and has now become one of the global cities in the production of high technology and its components.
AREA- 271.80 km2 (104.94 sq. mi)
POPULATION- 27,05,000
CO-ORDINATES-25°02′N 121°38′E
TIME ZONE-UTC+8
CLIMATE- The summers here are hot and humid with heavy rain and typhoons. Winter here is warm and foggy. From June to October the Pacific Typhoon affects Taipei. Winter is the driest, but coolest season in Taipei.
MONTH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Av High 19 20 22 26 29 32 34 34 31 27 24 20
Av Low 14 14 16 19 22 25 26 26 25 22 20 16
Rainsmm 83.21 70.31 80.41 77.82 34.5 325.92 45.13 22.13 60.51 48.90 83.1 73.30
AIRPORT- Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (IATA: TPE) is the primary international airport of Taiwan located 40 km to the southwest of Taipei. Kaohsiung International and Taipei Songshan also serves extensive flights throughout Asia.Direct flights are available to North America, Europe and Oceania. The airport is connected to Taipei by Taoyuan Airport MRT, as well as to HSR Taoyuan Station. Alternatively, there are regular bus services to Taipei, Taichung, HSR Taoyuan Station and more. The freeway buses ply the route, picking up and dropping off passengers at most of the five star hotels. It also stops at the Taipei Main Station and Songshan Airport. There are also bus services connecting the airport to nearby cities and Taichung in central Taiwan. There are five transportation options at the airport: MRT, bus, AirPoPo: Taoyuan Airport Shuttle , taxi, and pre-arranged sedan.
i- Taoyuan Airport MRT- The line is the only rail line that connects the airport to the city directly. Two trains run every 15 minutes between 6:00 to 23:00, one Express (The top half of the front-end is coated in purple) and one Commuter (The top half of the front-end is coated in blue). The trip length is 37 minutes from Terminal 2 to Taipei by Express. Single-trip fares to Taipei for both train types are NT$160. One can buy a single ticket at the station from the kiosk, or use a rechargeable IC card. At the airport terminal, the station is located in the underground levels. Note that eating and drinking is prohibited past the fare gates. Airport Terminal 2 Station serves as the interchange point with eastbound heading Taipei Main Station, and southbound heading Zhongli Railway Station while passing by Taoyuan HSR Station. The route totals 53 km in length, MRT comprises 24 stations, including 15 elevated stations, 9 underground stations. The train has a maximum operating speed of 100km/h. Ticketing machine with touch-screen sells single-journey ticket and contactless smart card. There is also staff to sell the tickets. Commuter Train stops every station.
www.taoyuan-airport.com/english/taoyuan_metro
ii- Taipei Airport Shuttles- From Taoyuan Taipei Airport to Taichung and Taipei, AirPoPo costs 1/3 the price of Taoyuan Airport taxi and takes shorter transportation time than Taipei Taoyuan Airport MRT. AirPoPo also provide Taiwan Taoyuan Airport (TPE) to Taipei Downtown pickup service and a shuttle seat can be booked 15 minutes before you come out of Taiwan Taipei Airport Customs.
https://www.airpopo.com/en/taiwan
TAIPEI METRO- Taipei Metro, is a rapid transit system serving metropolitan Taipei. It consists of 108 stations and 5 main routes and 2 branch lines, operating on 131.1-kilometre track. It first began operations in 1996. The MRT system operates from 6 am to midnight daily. Trains operate at intervals of 1.5 to 15 minutes depending on the line and time of day. RFID single journey tokens and rechargeable IC cards are used. There are Travel Passes for One Day, 24/48/72 hours. Fares range from NT$20 to NT$65 with most locations accessible for around NT$20–30.
http://english.metro.taipei/ct.asp?xItem=1056373&CtNode=70241&mp=122036
http://mapa-metro.com/en/Taiwan/Taipei/Taipei-MRT-map.htm
SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS AT TAIPEI-
001-TAIPEI 101-The Taipei 101 at 509.2 m, formerly known as the Taipei World Financial Center – is a landmark supertall skyscraper in Xinyi District. Taipei 101, is derived from the fact that the building encompasses 101 floors. The building was officially classified as the world's tallest in 2004, and remained such until the completion of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai in 2010. Taipei 101 was the world's tallest inhabited building, at 509.2 m (1,671 ft.) as measured to its height architectural top (spire), exceeding the Petronas Towers, which were previously the tallest inhabited skyscraper at 451.9 m (1,483 ft.). Taipei 101 comprises 101 floors above ground, as well as 5 basement levels. Taipei 101 is the influence of bamboo on the outside spire. The number eight, considered lucky in Chinese culture, has been incorporated by the use of eight sections of the outside building. There is a 660-tonne steel pendulum that serves as a tuned mass damper. Suspended from the 92nd to the 87th floor, the pendulum sways to offset movements in the building caused by strong gusts. Its sphere, the largest damper sphere in the world, consists of 41 circular steel plates of varying diameters.
It used to have the fastest double-deck elevator in the world, traveling at 60.6 km/h (16.83m/sec or 1010m/minutes) and transporting passengers from the 5th to 89th floor in 37 seconds. In 2016, the title for the fastest elevator was given to the Shanghai Tower in Shanghai, China. Construction on the 101-story tower started in 1999 and finished in 2004. A multi-level shopping mall adjoining the tower houses hundreds of stores, restaurants and clubs.
a-Two restaurants have opened on the 85th floor: Diamond Tony's, which offers European-style seafood and steak, and Shin Yeh 101, which offers Taiwanese-style cuisine.
b-Occupying all of the 86th floor is Taiwanese restaurant Ding Xian 101.
c-The 101st floor is home to a private VIP club named Summit 101. Access to the 101st floor requires two elevator transfers on the 89th and 93rd floors.
d-The 92nd through 100th floors are officially designated as communication floors.
e-The 91st-floor observatory is the highest floor that is open to the public.
f-On the 35th floor, Elly's Flower & Cafe is found and is known for their marvellous coffee and tea as well as western style lunches and dinners.
g- In the basement is a decent food court, and the first five floors are taken up by one of Taipei's malls.
TAIPEI 101 SHOPPING MALL-The world-famous Taipei 101 tower contains a first-class shopping mall on its lower floors. The Taipei 101 Shopping Mall includes 6 floors of shopping, hosting an impressive range of luxury brands. There is a particular focus on high-end fashion stores, such as Armani Exchange, Versace and French Connection. Other top stores include Montblanc, Chanel, and Dior.
OBSERVATION DECK-The observatory is spread over 4 floors where visitors can enjoy the fantastic scenery and learn about the engineering marvel that is Taipei 101, the tallest green building the world.
i- 5F Taipei 101 Mall - Here, visitors purchase tickets and take the Guinness World Record breaking high-speed elevator to the observatory on the 89TH floor.
ii- 88F Beauty of Taiwan Multimedia Corridor, Super Big Wind Damper, Treasure Sky - The corridor connecting the two decks is designed to showcase the natural beauty of Taiwan, providing 270-degree views of well-known scenic locations in Taiwan, leading to the engineering marvel known as a wind damper. Also included is Treasury Sky, a collection of unique jewel crafts.
iii- 89F Indoor Observatory - At 382 metres above the ground, the observatory deck provides an unobstructed view of the city in all directions. The observatory deck also houses a museum where visitors can learn about the design process and construction of Taipei 101 and other similar large-scale construction projects around the world, including a free audio tour in eleven languages, as well as high-powered binoculars, refreshments, and professional photography service.
iv- 91F Outdoor Observatory - The outdoor observatory is accessible by stairs from the 89TH floor. From the outside, it's possible to view the spire at the 508 metre high apex, but watch out for the strong winds. Inside the building on the 91ST floor is a small theatre displaying films about the construction and the annual New Year’s fireworks display. 91F is only open on days with favourable weather conditions.
Observatory Opening-every day from 9AM to 10PM. Ticketing and entrance
Tiketing and entrance-TAIPEI 101 Mall, 5th Floor.
Ticket-NT$600 (indoor and outdoor observation deck)
Address:- 89th Floor, No. 7, Xinyi Road Section 5, Taipei Cit
By MRT-Take the Red Line 2 (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) (Xiangshan train) to Taipei 101 station/World Trade Center.
https://www.taipei-101.com.tw/en/observatory-info.aspx
https://www.taipei-101.com.tw/en/observatory-ticket.aspx
It used to have the fastest double-deck elevator in the world, traveling at 60.6 km/h (16.83m/sec or 1010m/minutes) and transporting passengers from the 5th to 89th floor in 37 seconds. In 2016, the title for the fastest elevator was given to the Shanghai Tower in Shanghai, China. Construction on the 101-story tower started in 1999 and finished in 2004. A multi-level shopping mall adjoining the tower houses hundreds of stores, restaurants and clubs.
a-Two restaurants have opened on the 85th floor: Diamond Tony's, which offers European-style seafood and steak, and Shin Yeh 101, which offers Taiwanese-style cuisine.
b-Occupying all of the 86th floor is Taiwanese restaurant Ding Xian 101.
c-The 101st floor is home to a private VIP club named Summit 101. Access to the 101st floor requires two elevator transfers on the 89th and 93rd floors.
d-The 92nd through 100th floors are officially designated as communication floors.
e-The 91st-floor observatory is the highest floor that is open to the public.
f-On the 35th floor, Elly's Flower & Cafe is found and is known for their marvellous coffee and tea as well as western style lunches and dinners.
g- In the basement is a decent food court, and the first five floors are taken up by one of Taipei's malls.
TAIPEI 101 SHOPPING MALL-The world-famous Taipei 101 tower contains a first-class shopping mall on its lower floors. The Taipei 101 Shopping Mall includes 6 floors of shopping, hosting an impressive range of luxury brands. There is a particular focus on high-end fashion stores, such as Armani Exchange, Versace and French Connection. Other top stores include Montblanc, Chanel, and Dior.
OBSERVATION DECK-The observatory is spread over 4 floors where visitors can enjoy the fantastic scenery and learn about the engineering marvel that is Taipei 101, the tallest green building the world.
i- 5F Taipei 101 Mall - Here, visitors purchase tickets and take the Guinness World Record breaking high-speed elevator to the observatory on the 89TH floor.
ii- 88F Beauty of Taiwan Multimedia Corridor, Super Big Wind Damper, Treasure Sky - The corridor connecting the two decks is designed to showcase the natural beauty of Taiwan, providing 270-degree views of well-known scenic locations in Taiwan, leading to the engineering marvel known as a wind damper. Also included is Treasury Sky, a collection of unique jewel crafts.
iii- 89F Indoor Observatory - At 382 metres above the ground, the observatory deck provides an unobstructed view of the city in all directions. The observatory deck also houses a museum where visitors can learn about the design process and construction of Taipei 101 and other similar large-scale construction projects around the world, including a free audio tour in eleven languages, as well as high-powered binoculars, refreshments, and professional photography service.
iv- 91F Outdoor Observatory - The outdoor observatory is accessible by stairs from the 89TH floor. From the outside, it's possible to view the spire at the 508 metre high apex, but watch out for the strong winds. Inside the building on the 91ST floor is a small theatre displaying films about the construction and the annual New Year’s fireworks display. 91F is only open on days with favourable weather conditions.
Observatory Opening-every day from 9AM to 10PM. Ticketing and entrance
Tiketing and entrance-TAIPEI 101 Mall, 5th Floor.
Ticket-NT$600 (indoor and outdoor observation deck)
Address:- 89th Floor, No. 7, Xinyi Road Section 5, Taipei Cit
By MRT-Take the Red Line 2 (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) (Xiangshan train) to Taipei 101 station/World Trade Center.
https://www.taipei-101.com.tw/en/observatory-info.aspx
https://www.taipei-101.com.tw/en/observatory-ticket.aspx
002-SUN YAT-SEN MEMORIAL HALL- There is a statue of founding father (the first President of the Republic of China) in the building for the public to pay their respect. It is located in east side of Taipei and is close to Taipei City Government. The hall is situated in the beautiful Chung Shan Park, a charming little respite from busy Taipei. It's also a great spot for views of Taipei 101 as it is near to Taipei 101.
The entrance hall contains a 19-foot bronze statue of Sun, seated and positioned as the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC (USA).The memorial hall was built to commemorate the great founding father of R.O.C., Dr. Sun Yat-sen and was built on the 100th birthday of Dr. Sun. The building is inspired by structure of Chinese palace. It is grand and beautiful. There are exhibitions of historical items related to creation of R.O.C. The hall contains displays of Sun's accomplishments from the revolution during and after the fall of the Qing Dynasty, and today is a meeting ground for various social, educational, and cultural activities. The memorial hall has a concert hall that can accommodate more than 3,000 people.
Outside the main building, there is great space. You can usually see people flying kites here. It is a good place for the public for sports and recreation. The willow trees along the lake in Zhongshan Park, the garden with lush flowers, and the beauty of Chinese garden attract many visitors. There is a library in the main building housing 400 seats and 140,000 books.
There is a dramatic changing of the guard ceremony at the top of every hour here, with the silver-helmeted armed soldiers.
Taipei 101 is at a short walk.
**Dr Sun Yat-sen was a physician from Guangdong in the Qing Dynasty before playing an important role in the 1911 Revolution and becoming the first President of the Republic of China in 1912. Unlike some later figures in the Republic’s history, he is revered in both Taiwan (Republic of China) and mainland China (People’s Republic of China) for his efforts in overthrowing the imperial monarchies which had ruled China for nearly 2,000 years.
Visiting Hours of the exhibition halls: 9:00 - 17:00 entrance time of the auditorium: 19:00 performance time: 19:30
Location:- No. 505, Section 4, Ren-ai Road, Xinyi
MRT- i-Take the blue line to Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall, sometimes labelled as "S.Y.S. Memorial Hall Exit 3.
ii- Take the Red Line 2 (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) (Xiangshan train) to Taipei 101 station/World Trade Center.
The entrance hall contains a 19-foot bronze statue of Sun, seated and positioned as the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC (USA).The memorial hall was built to commemorate the great founding father of R.O.C., Dr. Sun Yat-sen and was built on the 100th birthday of Dr. Sun. The building is inspired by structure of Chinese palace. It is grand and beautiful. There are exhibitions of historical items related to creation of R.O.C. The hall contains displays of Sun's accomplishments from the revolution during and after the fall of the Qing Dynasty, and today is a meeting ground for various social, educational, and cultural activities. The memorial hall has a concert hall that can accommodate more than 3,000 people.
Outside the main building, there is great space. You can usually see people flying kites here. It is a good place for the public for sports and recreation. The willow trees along the lake in Zhongshan Park, the garden with lush flowers, and the beauty of Chinese garden attract many visitors. There is a library in the main building housing 400 seats and 140,000 books.
There is a dramatic changing of the guard ceremony at the top of every hour here, with the silver-helmeted armed soldiers.
Taipei 101 is at a short walk.
**Dr Sun Yat-sen was a physician from Guangdong in the Qing Dynasty before playing an important role in the 1911 Revolution and becoming the first President of the Republic of China in 1912. Unlike some later figures in the Republic’s history, he is revered in both Taiwan (Republic of China) and mainland China (People’s Republic of China) for his efforts in overthrowing the imperial monarchies which had ruled China for nearly 2,000 years.
Visiting Hours of the exhibition halls: 9:00 - 17:00 entrance time of the auditorium: 19:00 performance time: 19:30
Location:- No. 505, Section 4, Ren-ai Road, Xinyi
MRT- i-Take the blue line to Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall, sometimes labelled as "S.Y.S. Memorial Hall Exit 3.
ii- Take the Red Line 2 (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) (Xiangshan train) to Taipei 101 station/World Trade Center.
003-NATIONAL CHIANG KAI-SHEK MEMORIAL HALL-The most prominent historical landmark in Taiwan, the CKS Memorial Hall was erected in honour and memory of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, the former President of the Republic of China, and was opened in 1980 as part of a national park and gathering area after his death in 1975. Tiantan in Beijing inspires the architecture of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The four sides of the structure are similar to those of the pyramids in Egypt. The material is white marble. The roofs are decorated with deep-blue glass as part of the reflection of blue sky and bright sun. It adds a touch of grandeur. Chiang Kai-shek's body is not buried here but in the Cihu Mausoleum in Daxi Township, Taoyuan County.
The octagon-shaped white building rises 76 meters and is covered with blue tiles and red accents, echoing the flag of the Republic of China. The memorial hall has four sides and an octagonal roof. The eight sides represent the Chinese cultural symbolism of the number eight which is traditionally associated with fortune and wealth. The two sets of 89 steps represent Chiang's age of death and lead up to main hall housing a large bronze statue of Chiang protected by military personnel. A 10-minute performances of the ceremonial guard at the top of every hour draw many spectators.
Visit the Exhibition Hall before the Changing of the Guards, which happens every hour from 9am to 4pm, with the last change at 4.40pm.
Museum Hall- On the first floor of the Memorial Hall is the Exhibition Hall of Historical Relics of Chiang Kai-Shek, which contains a permanent exhibit of items related to President Chiang. They include the following: 1) Family Life, 2) Ascending to Power, 3) Wartime Leader of China, 4) From Mainland to Taiwan, 5) Presidency in Taiwan, 6) The gallery of President Chiang Kai-Shek’s office.
Besides the main hall, the large complex includes the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park, National Concert Hall, and the National Theatre. The various exhibits include the late president’s official cars and his clothes, medals, calligraphy and photographs.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park-In 2007 the surrounding park was renamed 'Liberty Square' in honour of Taiwan's long road to democracy. The place is enriched with the beauty of traditional Chinese gardens. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Park covers an area of 25 hectares. It is surrounded by white walls, blue tile roofed corridors and pavilions. On both sides near the front of the hall are the Yunhan and Guanghua ponds, where fishes swim. The ponds have artificial mountains and bridges and are ringed by quiet pathways. Walking on the paths, the scenery changes with each step and there is beautiful scenery at every turn.
**Chiang Kai-shek rose from army officer to President of the Republic of China. He led Republic forces during the Second World War and, after defeat by Chinese Communists in the civil war that followed, led his followers to Taiwan where he founded the ROC as we know it today.
Location: No. 21, Zhongshan S. Road, Zhongshan
MRT- Take Red Line 2 or Green Line 3 to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, sometimes labeled as C.K.S. Memorial Hall.
The octagon-shaped white building rises 76 meters and is covered with blue tiles and red accents, echoing the flag of the Republic of China. The memorial hall has four sides and an octagonal roof. The eight sides represent the Chinese cultural symbolism of the number eight which is traditionally associated with fortune and wealth. The two sets of 89 steps represent Chiang's age of death and lead up to main hall housing a large bronze statue of Chiang protected by military personnel. A 10-minute performances of the ceremonial guard at the top of every hour draw many spectators.
Visit the Exhibition Hall before the Changing of the Guards, which happens every hour from 9am to 4pm, with the last change at 4.40pm.
Museum Hall- On the first floor of the Memorial Hall is the Exhibition Hall of Historical Relics of Chiang Kai-Shek, which contains a permanent exhibit of items related to President Chiang. They include the following: 1) Family Life, 2) Ascending to Power, 3) Wartime Leader of China, 4) From Mainland to Taiwan, 5) Presidency in Taiwan, 6) The gallery of President Chiang Kai-Shek’s office.
Besides the main hall, the large complex includes the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park, National Concert Hall, and the National Theatre. The various exhibits include the late president’s official cars and his clothes, medals, calligraphy and photographs.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park-In 2007 the surrounding park was renamed 'Liberty Square' in honour of Taiwan's long road to democracy. The place is enriched with the beauty of traditional Chinese gardens. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Park covers an area of 25 hectares. It is surrounded by white walls, blue tile roofed corridors and pavilions. On both sides near the front of the hall are the Yunhan and Guanghua ponds, where fishes swim. The ponds have artificial mountains and bridges and are ringed by quiet pathways. Walking on the paths, the scenery changes with each step and there is beautiful scenery at every turn.
**Chiang Kai-shek rose from army officer to President of the Republic of China. He led Republic forces during the Second World War and, after defeat by Chinese Communists in the civil war that followed, led his followers to Taiwan where he founded the ROC as we know it today.
Location: No. 21, Zhongshan S. Road, Zhongshan
MRT- Take Red Line 2 or Green Line 3 to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, sometimes labeled as C.K.S. Memorial Hall.
004-NATIONAL CHIANG KAI-SHEK CULTURAL CENTER (National Theatre & National Concert Hall)- Built in 1987, the National Chiang Kai-Shek Cultural Centre at Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall are the first national-level cultural venues in Taiwan. In addition to hosting major performances, the two major buildings of the centre—the National Theatre and National Concert Hall—are major Taipei landmarks. The two buildings are designed in a traditional Chinese palace style, with distinctive yellow tiled roofs and red pillars adding to their stately elegance.
In addition to enjoying excellent musical, dance and theatre performances, centre visitors can also tour the cultural gallery and performing arts library.
Opening Hours-Daily 9:00~20:00
Tours: Monday 13:00 & 15:00; Weekends 11:00 & 13:00
Tour Tickets: Adults NT$100
In addition to enjoying excellent musical, dance and theatre performances, centre visitors can also tour the cultural gallery and performing arts library.
Opening Hours-Daily 9:00~20:00
Tours: Monday 13:00 & 15:00; Weekends 11:00 & 13:00
Tour Tickets: Adults NT$100
005-NATIONAL PALACE MUSEUM- Originally founded within the walls of the Beijing Forbidden City in 1925, the present-day National Palace Museum moved to Taipei's Shilin District following the Republic of China government relocation in 1949 with an official opening for the public in 1965. The National Palace Museum houses the world's largest collection of priceless Chinese art treasures, one which spans China's nearly 5,000-year history. Over 600,000 of the most precious artefacts within the collection were moved to Taiwan to prevent their desecration during and after the Chinese Civil War. Most of the collection are high quality pieces collected by China's emperors. It hosts the largest number of ancient artefacts, even more than the Forbidden City in Beijing. Spread over 4 floors and 2 exhibition halls, the museum's exhibits continuously rotate, as only a small percentage of the museum's collection can be displayed at a given time to prevent wear, only about 3,000 pieces can be displayed at any one time.
A number of the more famous items at the National Palace Museum are permanently on show, including the beautiful Jadeite Cabbage, an 18.7cm-long jade sculpture of a Chinese cabbage head with some small insects crawling on it, dating from the 19th century. Historically remarkable items include the Zong Zhou Zhong – a bronze bell, cast by royal decree from as early as 850 BC, which carries the longest Chinese bronze inscription so far found.
a- Zhishan Garden-Housed within the compound of the National Palace Museum, this classical Chinese Song and Ming style garden covers 1.88 hectares (18,800 m2). It contains numerous ponds, waterworks, and wooden Chinese pavilions. It was completed and opened in 1985. There is also another Chinese Style Garden nearby called the Shuangxi Park and Chinese Garden.
b- Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines- Originally opened in 1994, the museum is privately operated as an ethnology museum providing visitors with an understanding of Abroginal culture. The main displays introduce the natural environment of Taiwan as well as indigenous culture, including artefacts, clothing and personal decoration, tools and utensils, as well as ritual objects and religious life.
Opening Hours:- 9am- 5pm. Monday closed.
Address:No.221, Sec. 2, Zhishan Rd., Shilin District, Taipei City.
Admission Ticket- NT$250 (Admission ticket includes access to Zhishan Garden, a beautiful garden park next door to the museum, and the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines located a short distance away.)
Free Days-There are 6 free admission days for the National Palace Museum: New Year’s Day (January 1st), the Lantern Festival (January 15th on Lunar calendar, actual date varies each year) International Museum Day (May 18th), World Tourism Day (September 27th), National Day (October 10th) and Taiwan Culture Day (October 17th)
A number of the more famous items at the National Palace Museum are permanently on show, including the beautiful Jadeite Cabbage, an 18.7cm-long jade sculpture of a Chinese cabbage head with some small insects crawling on it, dating from the 19th century. Historically remarkable items include the Zong Zhou Zhong – a bronze bell, cast by royal decree from as early as 850 BC, which carries the longest Chinese bronze inscription so far found.
a- Zhishan Garden-Housed within the compound of the National Palace Museum, this classical Chinese Song and Ming style garden covers 1.88 hectares (18,800 m2). It contains numerous ponds, waterworks, and wooden Chinese pavilions. It was completed and opened in 1985. There is also another Chinese Style Garden nearby called the Shuangxi Park and Chinese Garden.
b- Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines- Originally opened in 1994, the museum is privately operated as an ethnology museum providing visitors with an understanding of Abroginal culture. The main displays introduce the natural environment of Taiwan as well as indigenous culture, including artefacts, clothing and personal decoration, tools and utensils, as well as ritual objects and religious life.
Opening Hours:- 9am- 5pm. Monday closed.
Address:No.221, Sec. 2, Zhishan Rd., Shilin District, Taipei City.
Admission Ticket- NT$250 (Admission ticket includes access to Zhishan Garden, a beautiful garden park next door to the museum, and the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines located a short distance away.)
Free Days-There are 6 free admission days for the National Palace Museum: New Year’s Day (January 1st), the Lantern Festival (January 15th on Lunar calendar, actual date varies each year) International Museum Day (May 18th), World Tourism Day (September 27th), National Day (October 10th) and Taiwan Culture Day (October 17th)
006-PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE BUILDING- Presidential Office Building is one of the most recognizable buildings in Taiwan. The style of the building is a combination of traditional European elements, including Baroque, Neo-Classical features, and Renaissance. Originally built to serve as the Office of the Governor-General of Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period. Located nearby Taipei Main Station, Ximending, 228 Park. The building has four ground floors and one underground floor, with a capacity of two thousand people. More than three hundred rooms were designed and most of them are functioned as office rooms. There are also many elegant and magnificent halls and gardens in the building, and a 60 meter tower built with cramp iron and cement. Since the 60 meter tower at the center was the tallest in Taiwan during Japanese-Occupied Periods, it had become the main target for American to bomb during World War II.
TOUR-Monday to Friday (except holidays)-The Presidential Office Building is partially open on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. (Visitors should enter the building before 11:30 a.m.)
Address:-No.122, Sec. 1, Chongqing South Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
MRT- i-Take the Red Line 2 to NTU Hospital Station, and get off at Exit 1. Get out at Hospital No.1 or 228 Park exits, follow Ketagalan Boulevard to reach the building.
ii- Take MRT Bannan Line, exit Ximen Station exit No.3, walk towards Far East Department Store to reach the building.
https://english.president.gov.tw/
TOUR-Monday to Friday (except holidays)-The Presidential Office Building is partially open on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. (Visitors should enter the building before 11:30 a.m.)
Address:-No.122, Sec. 1, Chongqing South Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
MRT- i-Take the Red Line 2 to NTU Hospital Station, and get off at Exit 1. Get out at Hospital No.1 or 228 Park exits, follow Ketagalan Boulevard to reach the building.
ii- Take MRT Bannan Line, exit Ximen Station exit No.3, walk towards Far East Department Store to reach the building.
https://english.president.gov.tw/
007-THE NATIONAL REVOLUTIONARY MARTYRS’ SHRINE - Built in 1969, the complex contains the main shrine, as well as several small exhibitions along the perimeter. The National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine in Taipei’s Zhongshan District is dedicated to all those who have died in the service of the Republic of China since its inception in 1911.
The shrine has nearly 390,000 spirit tablets devoted to the men and women who gave their lives during the revolution which saw an end to 2,000 years of monarchy rule in China and those who have since died to protect the initially very delicate democratic state. This includes those killed during the 1911 Revolution, the Second Sino-Japanese War (which was a part of the Second World War), and the Chinese Civil War which led to the split between the Republic of China in Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China on the mainland, as well as subsequent crises. The front gate is guarded by active ROC military personnel, and visitors are welcome to observe the changing of the guard at the top of every hour until 5PM, it is a 30 minute ceremony.
Location- 138 Beian Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City. It is located just east of the Grand Hotel and is approximately a five-minute walk from that hotel.
How to reach- For bus, take route 208, 21, 213, 247, 267, 287, 42, 646, 902, red 2 or red 3 to the Martyrs' Shrine Stop.
The shrine has nearly 390,000 spirit tablets devoted to the men and women who gave their lives during the revolution which saw an end to 2,000 years of monarchy rule in China and those who have since died to protect the initially very delicate democratic state. This includes those killed during the 1911 Revolution, the Second Sino-Japanese War (which was a part of the Second World War), and the Chinese Civil War which led to the split between the Republic of China in Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China on the mainland, as well as subsequent crises. The front gate is guarded by active ROC military personnel, and visitors are welcome to observe the changing of the guard at the top of every hour until 5PM, it is a 30 minute ceremony.
Location- 138 Beian Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City. It is located just east of the Grand Hotel and is approximately a five-minute walk from that hotel.
How to reach- For bus, take route 208, 21, 213, 247, 267, 287, 42, 646, 902, red 2 or red 3 to the Martyrs' Shrine Stop.
008-GRAND HOTEL- Set upon the hill, the famous The Grand Hotel is not just an elegant accommodation but also one of the most popular landmarks in Taipei. The hotel was first established in 1952 as Chiang Kai-shek felt Taipei had no proper hotels for hosting foreign dignitaries. The Grand Hotel is a 14-story palatial building towering on the hillside of Yuanshan and surrounded by Keelung River in the front, Mt. Yangmingshan in the back, Songshan to the east and Tamsui to the west. With its signature red columns and golden roof, the hotel’s magnificent exterior presents a sumptuously classic ambiance. Each floor of the hotel is with different decorations to present different periods of the Chinese history. The Grand Hotel has selected as the reception venue and accommodation for many distinguished foreign guests, as well as favoured by former President Chiang Kai-Shek, the presidential suite still keeps the former president Chiang Kai-Shek’s desk and Madam Chiang’s dressing table as mementos. The hotel has 487 classic rooms. Featuring a palace-inspired exterior of golden roof tiling and red columns, It houses a grand ballroom and conference facilities.
i-The century-old golden dragons- The bronze dragons were initially designed statues guarding the entrance to Taiwan Jinjia. The dragons were accentuated with 24-karat gold plating as part of the hotel’s renovation efforts in 1987. It is worth noting that these dragons have three claws only.
ii-Plum-flower caisson ceiling- On the centre of the hotel lobby’s ceiling is a plum blossom-shaped caisson, with five golden dragons encircling a pearl, suggesting the “Five Blessings.” The caisson ceiling is also a profound traditional symbol of prosperity, represented by the dragons and phoenixes.
iii- Glass doors of the hotel lobby- The gigantic, yet gracefully symmetrical, floor-to-ceiling glass doors of the lobby serve as the front entrance of The Grand Hotel. Look closely, and you will see six ancient Chinese characters signifying “Long Live the Republic of China”, hidden under the decorative patterns.
iv- Stone Tablet- Erected at the beginning of a stone staircase leading to the arched entrance is a giant stone tablet inscribed with the cursive-style characters “Jian-Tan-Sheng-Ji”.
Address:-No.1, Sec.4, Zhongshan N. Rd.,Taipei City, Taiwan
Shuttle- The hotel offers shuttle service to/from exit no. 1 of MRT Yuanshan Station every 20-30 minutes from 06:40 through 22:10.
Location- The hotel is about a 5-10 minute ride to both MRT Yuanshan Station and MRT Jiantan Station
i-The century-old golden dragons- The bronze dragons were initially designed statues guarding the entrance to Taiwan Jinjia. The dragons were accentuated with 24-karat gold plating as part of the hotel’s renovation efforts in 1987. It is worth noting that these dragons have three claws only.
ii-Plum-flower caisson ceiling- On the centre of the hotel lobby’s ceiling is a plum blossom-shaped caisson, with five golden dragons encircling a pearl, suggesting the “Five Blessings.” The caisson ceiling is also a profound traditional symbol of prosperity, represented by the dragons and phoenixes.
iii- Glass doors of the hotel lobby- The gigantic, yet gracefully symmetrical, floor-to-ceiling glass doors of the lobby serve as the front entrance of The Grand Hotel. Look closely, and you will see six ancient Chinese characters signifying “Long Live the Republic of China”, hidden under the decorative patterns.
iv- Stone Tablet- Erected at the beginning of a stone staircase leading to the arched entrance is a giant stone tablet inscribed with the cursive-style characters “Jian-Tan-Sheng-Ji”.
Address:-No.1, Sec.4, Zhongshan N. Rd.,Taipei City, Taiwan
Shuttle- The hotel offers shuttle service to/from exit no. 1 of MRT Yuanshan Station every 20-30 minutes from 06:40 through 22:10.
Location- The hotel is about a 5-10 minute ride to both MRT Yuanshan Station and MRT Jiantan Station
009-LONGSHAN TEMPLE- Longshan (lungshan) Temple is a famous old temple in Taiwan. Longshan Temple is one of largest and oldest temples in Taiwan. Entrance is free, but donations to maintain the upkeep of the temple are accepted. It is for worshiping Guanshiyin Budda and other divine spirits. Longshan (lungshan) Temple is facing the South. The layout is square and serene. The temple was built in Qianlong 5th year in Qing Dynasty in 1738 by settlers from Fujian as a gathering place for Chinese settlers.
Due to natural disaster and damages caused by men, the temple was restored for several times. The doors, beams, and poles are beautifully decorated. There is a pair of bronze dragon poles in the front hall, four pairs of dragon poles in the middle hall. Inside the temple, there is the entire family of ancient Chinese gods. God of War, God of Peace, God of Education… Taiwanese people buy sticks of incense at the main gate, light them up at gas burners on the right, and walk around (counter-clockwise) to pray to the different deities.
There are traditional streets/shops, antique shops; Buddhists article shops, and Chinese medicine shops surrounding the temple. These places are great to visit due to their richness in folk art.
Address:-No. 211, Guangzhou St., Wanhua District, Taipei City
MRT- Longshan Station. Take the Blue Line 5 to Longshan Temple, the temple is located just north of the station plaza, Exit 1.
Hours:- 6am to 10pm
Due to natural disaster and damages caused by men, the temple was restored for several times. The doors, beams, and poles are beautifully decorated. There is a pair of bronze dragon poles in the front hall, four pairs of dragon poles in the middle hall. Inside the temple, there is the entire family of ancient Chinese gods. God of War, God of Peace, God of Education… Taiwanese people buy sticks of incense at the main gate, light them up at gas burners on the right, and walk around (counter-clockwise) to pray to the different deities.
There are traditional streets/shops, antique shops; Buddhists article shops, and Chinese medicine shops surrounding the temple. These places are great to visit due to their richness in folk art.
Address:-No. 211, Guangzhou St., Wanhua District, Taipei City
MRT- Longshan Station. Take the Blue Line 5 to Longshan Temple, the temple is located just north of the station plaza, Exit 1.
Hours:- 6am to 10pm
010-SHILIN NIGHT MARKET- Shilin Night Market is the one of the largest night markets in Taipei. The market is cantered on Yangming Theater and Cicheng Temple. The night market is formed by many prosperous shops on Wenlin Road, Dadong Road and Danan Road, etc. Among them, Shilin Market was built as early as in 1899 and the market is famous for various snacks and eatery. The night market consists of two major elements: general merchandise and local cuisine. Many visitors have come to Shilin Night Market to enjoy the delicious foods, such as large pancake enfolding small pancake, hot pot on stone or Shilin sausage. Shilin Night Market has become a renowned place for great foods.
Address:-No.101, Jihe Rd., Shilin Dist., Taipei City 111, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
MRT- Jiantan Staion Stop. Take the Red Line 2 to Jiantan Station. After leaving Exit 1, diagonally cross the street to the left to enter the night market.
Address:-No.101, Jihe Rd., Shilin Dist., Taipei City 111, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
MRT- Jiantan Staion Stop. Take the Red Line 2 to Jiantan Station. After leaving Exit 1, diagonally cross the street to the left to enter the night market.
011-BEITOU HOT SPRINGS-Broadly speaking, the Beitou hot springs region refers to an area covering the Hell Valley, Longfeng, Fenghuang, Hushan Village and Xingyi Road.The region mainly refers to an area consisting of Zhongshan Road, Guangming Road, Xinmin Road and Quanyuan Road surrounding the Beitou Hot Springs Waterside Park.
Famous home of hot springs in the Taipei area, Beitou is the most convenient area for travellers visiting Taipei to enjoy authentic thermal hot springs. During the Japanese occupation, the area around the natural hot springs was developed into a resort destination filled with nice resorts, inns, hotels, tea houses, parks, and public baths. As a result of its immense popularity, a train line and station were built to attract visitors from far and wide to enjoy the beauty of the area. The area around Xinbeitou station is filled with various public and private baths. Each bath may have different etiquette and general rules.
The three common types of hot springs include green sulfur (slightly green coloured and only found in Beitou and Akita, Japan), white sulfur (a milky coloured spring which make up the majority of springs in the area), and iron sulfur (transparent springs found around the Ding Beitou area).
Each bath may have rules regarding gender separation, whether or not bathers are permitted to wear clothing, and other regulations such as those regarding food and drink.
Millennium Hot Spring is a public hot spring. At NT$40 (1.25 USD), it’s a cheap but rich experience, where there are several open-air bathing pools. Temperatures in the hot pools ranged from 42 to 46 degrees Celsius. The acidic water from Beitou’s Geothermal Valley (Hell Valley) is transported to the Millennium Hot Springs. The public hot springs operate on a schedule consisting of roughly two-hour segments, with a half hour between each one when the springs close for cleaning.
Beitou Museum- The Beitou Hot Spring Museum was originally a bathhouse built by the Japanese Colonial Government in 1913. At one time, the baths were the largest in East Asia. The museum is a wonderful brick structure to enjoy. Once inside, visitors can learn about Beitou and its hot spring history. The original bathing pools still exist in the structure along with old photos from when the pool was in use. Admission is free.
Thermal Valley- Thermal Valley is an incredible site when you consider that you are still in Taipei City. It is a 90 degree Celcius “lake” of sulpher hot spring water. The water is always steaming, has a beautiful greenish, blue hue, and of course emits a sulpher hot spring aroma. This water runs under Beitou and provides the water for all the hot spring baths. Beitou residents can even get hot spring water pumped into their houses for a small monthly fee.
MRT- Getting the red metro line to the Beitou Station and changing lines to Xin Beitou. And take the special, colourful train to Xin Beitou or “New Beitou”. It is the pink line on the MRT map. Once you exit the Xin Beitou station, you will see Beitou Park in front of you. Head in that direction.
Famous home of hot springs in the Taipei area, Beitou is the most convenient area for travellers visiting Taipei to enjoy authentic thermal hot springs. During the Japanese occupation, the area around the natural hot springs was developed into a resort destination filled with nice resorts, inns, hotels, tea houses, parks, and public baths. As a result of its immense popularity, a train line and station were built to attract visitors from far and wide to enjoy the beauty of the area. The area around Xinbeitou station is filled with various public and private baths. Each bath may have different etiquette and general rules.
The three common types of hot springs include green sulfur (slightly green coloured and only found in Beitou and Akita, Japan), white sulfur (a milky coloured spring which make up the majority of springs in the area), and iron sulfur (transparent springs found around the Ding Beitou area).
Each bath may have rules regarding gender separation, whether or not bathers are permitted to wear clothing, and other regulations such as those regarding food and drink.
Millennium Hot Spring is a public hot spring. At NT$40 (1.25 USD), it’s a cheap but rich experience, where there are several open-air bathing pools. Temperatures in the hot pools ranged from 42 to 46 degrees Celsius. The acidic water from Beitou’s Geothermal Valley (Hell Valley) is transported to the Millennium Hot Springs. The public hot springs operate on a schedule consisting of roughly two-hour segments, with a half hour between each one when the springs close for cleaning.
Beitou Museum- The Beitou Hot Spring Museum was originally a bathhouse built by the Japanese Colonial Government in 1913. At one time, the baths were the largest in East Asia. The museum is a wonderful brick structure to enjoy. Once inside, visitors can learn about Beitou and its hot spring history. The original bathing pools still exist in the structure along with old photos from when the pool was in use. Admission is free.
Thermal Valley- Thermal Valley is an incredible site when you consider that you are still in Taipei City. It is a 90 degree Celcius “lake” of sulpher hot spring water. The water is always steaming, has a beautiful greenish, blue hue, and of course emits a sulpher hot spring aroma. This water runs under Beitou and provides the water for all the hot spring baths. Beitou residents can even get hot spring water pumped into their houses for a small monthly fee.
MRT- Getting the red metro line to the Beitou Station and changing lines to Xin Beitou. And take the special, colourful train to Xin Beitou or “New Beitou”. It is the pink line on the MRT map. Once you exit the Xin Beitou station, you will see Beitou Park in front of you. Head in that direction.
012-TAIPEI ZOO-The Taipei Zoo is one of the ten largest municipal zoos in the world and the largest in Southeast Asia. The zoo was originally founded in 1914 by a Japanese citizen as a private zoological garden, and after the ROC relocation to Taiwan became a public zoo under the Taipei City government. The Taipei Zoo displays animals from Taiwan, Australia, Africa, the Asian tropical rainforest, the desert, and the temperate zones. The zoo also displays domestic animals in its Children's Zoo, as well as over 12000 birds of over 130 species in an aviary. Other exhibitions in the zoo include an insectarium, amphibian and reptile house, penguin habitat, koala habitat, nocturnal animals display, and a panda exhibition. Yuan Zai is the first giant panda cub born on Taiwan, and she is usually called by her name in Taiwanese Hokkien, pronounced similar to "yǐ à". The zoo includes 7 indoor exhibits, each with different themes. Taipei Zoo also features 8 outdoor exhibit areas.
Ticket-NT$60
Zoo Hours: 9AM - 5PM (no entry after 4PM)
Animals Exhibit: 9AM - 4:30PM (indoor and outdoor exhibits)
MRT- Take the Brown Line 1 to the southern terminus Taipei Zoo.
https://english.zoo.gov.taipei/
Ticket-NT$60
Zoo Hours: 9AM - 5PM (no entry after 4PM)
Animals Exhibit: 9AM - 4:30PM (indoor and outdoor exhibits)
MRT- Take the Brown Line 1 to the southern terminus Taipei Zoo.
https://english.zoo.gov.taipei/
013-MAOKONG GONDOLA- The Maokong Gondola was built in 2007 and with Crystal Cabins (glass-bottom cars) in 2010 to provide more viewing angles. With a total length of 4.03 kilometres, the Maokong Gondola is the first gondola system in Taipei City. One-way travel time on the gondola is about 20 to 30 minutes. The gondola ride includes four stops, namely the Taipei Zoo Station, Taipei Zoo South Station, Zhinan Temple Station, and the Maokong Station. As the gondola passes over the undulating terrain, you can glimpse moving Metro trains, the park along the Jingmei River, and the "giraffe" incinerator. When you reach the second stop, the gondola takes a big turn, and you will get a panoramic view of the landscape, including vehicles moving along the freeway below. After passing the Zhinan Temple Station, you will enter a steep V-shaped gully; this is the climax of the gondola ride, and is an unforgettable experience. The final stop is at Maokong, where numerous tea plantations and tea shops are located. Many visitors specially make the trip here to have tea.
Maokong Tea- Maokong is located in the southwest of Getou Mountain in Wenshan District of Taipei outskirts. It is said that tea farmers from southern China came here to open teahouses. The tea farms here are famous for Bouzhong tea and Taiguan Ing. Most tea farms provide tea tasting or meals. Visit a tea shop and order the famous “Muzha Tieguanyin” or “Wenshan Pouchong tea” when you visit Maokong.
Taipei Tea Promotion Center -The Promotion Center includes a display area, an instructional area, an ecological pond and so on. The display area includes information regarding the tea manufacturing process, the proper way to brew it and the way to store it. The center also provides information concerning the distribution of Taiwanese teas
How to Reach- Take the Brown Line 1 to the terminus station, Taipei Zoo. Transfer to the Maokong Gondola, a cable-car service that climbs up the mountain to the peak at Maokong.
Open from 8:30AM to 9PM (10PM on Fri & Sat).
Ticket- NT$120 each way for adults.
Maokong Tea- Maokong is located in the southwest of Getou Mountain in Wenshan District of Taipei outskirts. It is said that tea farmers from southern China came here to open teahouses. The tea farms here are famous for Bouzhong tea and Taiguan Ing. Most tea farms provide tea tasting or meals. Visit a tea shop and order the famous “Muzha Tieguanyin” or “Wenshan Pouchong tea” when you visit Maokong.
Taipei Tea Promotion Center -The Promotion Center includes a display area, an instructional area, an ecological pond and so on. The display area includes information regarding the tea manufacturing process, the proper way to brew it and the way to store it. The center also provides information concerning the distribution of Taiwanese teas
How to Reach- Take the Brown Line 1 to the terminus station, Taipei Zoo. Transfer to the Maokong Gondola, a cable-car service that climbs up the mountain to the peak at Maokong.
Open from 8:30AM to 9PM (10PM on Fri & Sat).
Ticket- NT$120 each way for adults.
014-TAIPEI MAIN STATION- This is the central railway station for the city and a hub for both the MRT and rail networks. As the main transport link for Taipei residents to reach the rest of the island, the station was designed to accommodate large numbers of waiting commuters and is impressive from both inside and out.
015-YANGMINGSHAN NATIONAL PARK- Yangmingshan National Park is one of the nine national parks in Taiwan, located between Taipei and New Taipei City. The districts that house parts of the park grounds include Taipei's Beitou and Shilin Districts. Spanning 114sq. km the area is home to numerous parks, hiking trails, interesting plants and wildlife, and the internationally famous hot springs. The National Park is also famous for its cherry blossoms, hot springs, sulphur deposits, fumaroles, venomous snakes, and hiking trails, including Taiwan's tallest dormant volcano, Seven Star Mountain (1,120 m). Mountain elevations range from only 200–1120 meters, beautiful landscapes such as ridges, valleys, lakes, waterfalls and basins are abundant. The tallest peak, Mount Qixing (Seven Star Mountain), has an elevation of 1120 meters (3,674 ft), and its peak is the highest point in Taipei City. February and March are the flowering season, and rhododendrons and cherry blossoms cover the mountain slopes to welcome the spring.
i- Yangming Park, Flower Clock- The Flower Clock is a large garden artwork nearby the western entrance to the park. Sized at 1.07sq km., the park contains a Chinese-style garden with elegant buildings, pavilions kiosks, streams, fountains and ponds for visitors to relax and enjoy the cooler climate.
ii- Qingtiangang Grassland Trails- Qingtiangang provides amazing views of Yangmingshan National Park. After the eruption of Mt. Zhugao, the lava flowed north towards the area, creating this unique landscape.
iii- Xiaoyoukeng- Xiaoyoukeng is located on Mt. Qixing's northwestern corner, located approximately 805 metres above sea level. The area is known for fumaroles (mountain-side sulphur gas exhaust), hot springs, sulphur crystals, is located close by to Mt. Zhuzi, Mt. Datun, and Mt. Xiaoguanyin, and provides views of the northeast coast outside Jinshan town area. Hiking from Xiaoyoukeng for around 1 hour along the Arrow Bamboo Trail to the top of Mt. Qixing reaches Taipei City's highest point at 1,120 metres above sea level.
iv- Lengshuikeng- The area is a popular rest spot for visitors hiking or touring Yangmingshan National Park, and houses a visitor centre, small restaurant/café, a formal hot spring building (where visitors are separated into genders and must enter nude), as well as an outdoor foot-soaking pool very accessible from the main road. All hot springs are free for the public.
v-Liuhuanggu Sulfur Valley Geothermal Scenic Area – An incredibly unique landform resulting from sulphur mining and hydrothermal activities, this scenic area is easily accessible from the Beitou Hot Springs area, and is one of the attractions in Yangmingshan National Park. Sulphur mining on Yangming Mountain has existed as far back as the year 1349, and flourished during the Dutch era trading with Chinese merchants. After the Sino-French War, in 1884 the production of sulphur was brought under monopoly control by the Qing Dynasty, and was brought under large scale production during the Japanese era. All mining operations have been shut down due to environmental effects, and visitors can check out the decommissioned mines such as the one at Liuhuanggu.
There is no fee to enter the park.
MRT-Take the MRT to Jiantan Station, continue by Bus Red-5 to Yangmingshan stop. Then take Bus No. 108 to Tourist Center stop.
i- Yangming Park, Flower Clock- The Flower Clock is a large garden artwork nearby the western entrance to the park. Sized at 1.07sq km., the park contains a Chinese-style garden with elegant buildings, pavilions kiosks, streams, fountains and ponds for visitors to relax and enjoy the cooler climate.
ii- Qingtiangang Grassland Trails- Qingtiangang provides amazing views of Yangmingshan National Park. After the eruption of Mt. Zhugao, the lava flowed north towards the area, creating this unique landscape.
iii- Xiaoyoukeng- Xiaoyoukeng is located on Mt. Qixing's northwestern corner, located approximately 805 metres above sea level. The area is known for fumaroles (mountain-side sulphur gas exhaust), hot springs, sulphur crystals, is located close by to Mt. Zhuzi, Mt. Datun, and Mt. Xiaoguanyin, and provides views of the northeast coast outside Jinshan town area. Hiking from Xiaoyoukeng for around 1 hour along the Arrow Bamboo Trail to the top of Mt. Qixing reaches Taipei City's highest point at 1,120 metres above sea level.
iv- Lengshuikeng- The area is a popular rest spot for visitors hiking or touring Yangmingshan National Park, and houses a visitor centre, small restaurant/café, a formal hot spring building (where visitors are separated into genders and must enter nude), as well as an outdoor foot-soaking pool very accessible from the main road. All hot springs are free for the public.
v-Liuhuanggu Sulfur Valley Geothermal Scenic Area – An incredibly unique landform resulting from sulphur mining and hydrothermal activities, this scenic area is easily accessible from the Beitou Hot Springs area, and is one of the attractions in Yangmingshan National Park. Sulphur mining on Yangming Mountain has existed as far back as the year 1349, and flourished during the Dutch era trading with Chinese merchants. After the Sino-French War, in 1884 the production of sulphur was brought under monopoly control by the Qing Dynasty, and was brought under large scale production during the Japanese era. All mining operations have been shut down due to environmental effects, and visitors can check out the decommissioned mines such as the one at Liuhuanggu.
There is no fee to enter the park.
MRT-Take the MRT to Jiantan Station, continue by Bus Red-5 to Yangmingshan stop. Then take Bus No. 108 to Tourist Center stop.
016-SHOPPING AT TAIPEI-
i-Xinyi Shopping District-the Xinyi shopping district is home to the famous Taipei 101, ATT4fun, the flagship Eslite bookstore, Neo19, Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Xinyi Place, Breeze Songgao as well as other entertainment, shopping, and dining complexes. The Xinyi District is most commonly known as the stretch of development between Xinyi Road and Zhongxiao East Road, in the area surrounding Taipei 101.
MRT-Red Line -Tapei 101 Station.
ii-Ximending Youth Shopping District-Ximending was founded during the Japanese colonisation era as a recreation district. One of the most popular destination for tourists, the Ximending Pedestrian Area is the centre of the district, and accessible from Exit 6 of Ximen Station. The area is very popular with tourists and Taipei youth, and, along with shopping and restaurants, also hosts street performances and exhibitions.
Address: Shi-men Ting, Taipei City, Taiwan 108
Nearest Station: Xi Men MRT Station(Blue & Green Line)
i-Xinyi Shopping District-the Xinyi shopping district is home to the famous Taipei 101, ATT4fun, the flagship Eslite bookstore, Neo19, Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Xinyi Place, Breeze Songgao as well as other entertainment, shopping, and dining complexes. The Xinyi District is most commonly known as the stretch of development between Xinyi Road and Zhongxiao East Road, in the area surrounding Taipei 101.
MRT-Red Line -Tapei 101 Station.
ii-Ximending Youth Shopping District-Ximending was founded during the Japanese colonisation era as a recreation district. One of the most popular destination for tourists, the Ximending Pedestrian Area is the centre of the district, and accessible from Exit 6 of Ximen Station. The area is very popular with tourists and Taipei youth, and, along with shopping and restaurants, also hosts street performances and exhibitions.
Address: Shi-men Ting, Taipei City, Taiwan 108
Nearest Station: Xi Men MRT Station(Blue & Green Line)
DAY TOUR – TAPEI
001-TAIPEI SIGHTSEEING HOP ON HOP OFF-
1-Day Ticket-It is valid within 24 hours from the first boarding. (Hop on and hop off during business hours Go on Red or Blue Line without any limitations). For sightseeing bus trips, please refer to timetable.
A-9 stops on blue line. From 9.10 to 20.00-One Hour 20 minutes loop.
B-14 stops on red line. From 9.40 to 16.00-One Hour Loop
Ticket =NT$600(approx. =20USD)
https://www.taipeisightseeing.com.tw/en/router
002-ULTIMATE TAIPEI SIGHTSEEING TOUR by Viator
from $100.00 USD - 10 hours (Approx.) -Hotel pickup offered - Small-group tour limited to 16 people - Tuesday, Friday, Saturday –
not included-The National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine
003- TAIPEI: PRIVATE DAY TOUR BY CAR-by Getyour guide
Duration 8 hours- Available from any hotel in Taipei City - ₹ 4,721/pp-
Explore Taipei at your own pace- create your own itinerary of the city and see the attractions that interest you most, once your reservation has been received, your itinerary will be built with you, according to your preference.
004- TAIPEI CITY: COMPREHENSIVE SIGHTSEEING TOUR-by Getyour guide - ₹ 7,263/pp
Same as viator
005- TAIPEI CITY AREA HALF DAY TOUR Price= 28USD- Taiwan Seat In Coach Tours
http://asiatravel.freechinalink.com/half-day.htm
Taipei City Tour (3 hours, morning or afternoon)-Presidential Building (pass by ), Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall, Martyrs’ Shrine, Chinese Temple, National Palace Museum, Handicraft Center.
006-TAROKO GORGE FULL-DAY TOUR FROM TAIPEI-Taroko Gorge is an impressive 19-km-long canyon, situated near Taiwan's east coast. The area of the gorge is also identified as Taroko Gorge National Park. Named after the local Truku aboriginal tribe, Taroko National Park is one of Taiwan’s most beautiful sights. The landmark gorge of the park carved by the Liwu River. One of the most spectacular canyons in the world, 20 kilometres of vertical cliffs, in some parts over 1000 meters high. Formally established on 28 November, 1986, the park’s opening was a milestone for the environmental protection movement in Taiwan. A journey by train from Taipei to Hualien takes 2 hours by express train (440NTD) and 3 to 4 hours by local trains. Besides the gorge, other attractions include aboriginal settlements, temples, museums, and numerous hiking trails for visitors to experience the true beauty of mountainous Hualien County and eastern Taiwan.
List of Attractions along Route-
1.1KM – Taroko National Park Main Visitor Centre- The National Park Visitor Centre is located on a terrace on the left side of the river, just at the beginning of the valley. The Visitor Centre is closed on the second Monday of each month. Opening hours are from 8:45am to 16:45 pm.2.5 KM – Eternal Spring Shrine (Chang Chun Shrine) - This small temple is built right on top of a mighty perennial spring. Dedicated to the 450 soldiers-workers that lost their lives building the Central Cross-Island Highway, the Shrine is one of Taroko landmarks.
10.2 KM – Buluowan- Buluowan was a main settlement of Truku aboriginals. Japanese forced them away about 100 years ago. There you can find a museum, live exhibitions of their traditional arts, such as weaving, and a handcrafts shop.
13.8 KM – Swallow Grotto – Yanzihkou- The place is so called because of the swallows were nesting on the cliff. Just after Swallow Grotto, you can have a stop at Liufang bridge. Here Jhuilu Cliff reaches a height of 1100 meters. It is the highest cliff of the whole gorge. The Swallow Grotto provides a great view of the river deep below, which has carved out a narrow gorge.
17.7 KM – Tunnel Of Nine Turns- Jiuqudong- Nine Turns Tunnel is another stretch of the old road, about two kilometres long. The whole section is reserved to pedestrian; the new road runs into a separate tunnel.
23.2 KM – Tiansiang (Tienhshiang) - Tiansiang is a very tiny village. There is a beautiful pagoda and a temple nested on a green hill, overlooking Tiansiang that can be reached easily crossing the suspension bridge.
TOURS-
Presented by- V P Gupta
001-TAIPEI SIGHTSEEING HOP ON HOP OFF-
1-Day Ticket-It is valid within 24 hours from the first boarding. (Hop on and hop off during business hours Go on Red or Blue Line without any limitations). For sightseeing bus trips, please refer to timetable.
A-9 stops on blue line. From 9.10 to 20.00-One Hour 20 minutes loop.
B-14 stops on red line. From 9.40 to 16.00-One Hour Loop
Ticket =NT$600(approx. =20USD)
https://www.taipeisightseeing.com.tw/en/router
002-ULTIMATE TAIPEI SIGHTSEEING TOUR by Viator
from $100.00 USD - 10 hours (Approx.) -Hotel pickup offered - Small-group tour limited to 16 people - Tuesday, Friday, Saturday –
- Visit Longshan Temple1
- Stop at the Presidential Office Building8 for a few photo ops
- Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall2, where you can walk up the 89 steps to the bronze statue.
- View Taipei 1013, with optional entry to the 89th-floor observatory(an hour of free time)
- Visit the Lin An Tai Historical House
- Pass by the Grand Hotel
- drive through Yangmingshan National Park and stop at a scenic overlook
- exploring the Thermal Valley5, including the Beitou Hot Spring Museum(one hour)
- Visit the National Palace Museum6(1- to 1.5-hour guided tour)
- drop-off at Shilin Night Market7 (one hour)
not included-The National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine
003- TAIPEI: PRIVATE DAY TOUR BY CAR-by Getyour guide
Duration 8 hours- Available from any hotel in Taipei City - ₹ 4,721/pp-
Explore Taipei at your own pace- create your own itinerary of the city and see the attractions that interest you most, once your reservation has been received, your itinerary will be built with you, according to your preference.
004- TAIPEI CITY: COMPREHENSIVE SIGHTSEEING TOUR-by Getyour guide - ₹ 7,263/pp
Same as viator
005- TAIPEI CITY AREA HALF DAY TOUR Price= 28USD- Taiwan Seat In Coach Tours
http://asiatravel.freechinalink.com/half-day.htm
Taipei City Tour (3 hours, morning or afternoon)-Presidential Building (pass by ), Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall, Martyrs’ Shrine, Chinese Temple, National Palace Museum, Handicraft Center.
006-TAROKO GORGE FULL-DAY TOUR FROM TAIPEI-Taroko Gorge is an impressive 19-km-long canyon, situated near Taiwan's east coast. The area of the gorge is also identified as Taroko Gorge National Park. Named after the local Truku aboriginal tribe, Taroko National Park is one of Taiwan’s most beautiful sights. The landmark gorge of the park carved by the Liwu River. One of the most spectacular canyons in the world, 20 kilometres of vertical cliffs, in some parts over 1000 meters high. Formally established on 28 November, 1986, the park’s opening was a milestone for the environmental protection movement in Taiwan. A journey by train from Taipei to Hualien takes 2 hours by express train (440NTD) and 3 to 4 hours by local trains. Besides the gorge, other attractions include aboriginal settlements, temples, museums, and numerous hiking trails for visitors to experience the true beauty of mountainous Hualien County and eastern Taiwan.
List of Attractions along Route-
1.1KM – Taroko National Park Main Visitor Centre- The National Park Visitor Centre is located on a terrace on the left side of the river, just at the beginning of the valley. The Visitor Centre is closed on the second Monday of each month. Opening hours are from 8:45am to 16:45 pm.2.5 KM – Eternal Spring Shrine (Chang Chun Shrine) - This small temple is built right on top of a mighty perennial spring. Dedicated to the 450 soldiers-workers that lost their lives building the Central Cross-Island Highway, the Shrine is one of Taroko landmarks.
10.2 KM – Buluowan- Buluowan was a main settlement of Truku aboriginals. Japanese forced them away about 100 years ago. There you can find a museum, live exhibitions of their traditional arts, such as weaving, and a handcrafts shop.
13.8 KM – Swallow Grotto – Yanzihkou- The place is so called because of the swallows were nesting on the cliff. Just after Swallow Grotto, you can have a stop at Liufang bridge. Here Jhuilu Cliff reaches a height of 1100 meters. It is the highest cliff of the whole gorge. The Swallow Grotto provides a great view of the river deep below, which has carved out a narrow gorge.
17.7 KM – Tunnel Of Nine Turns- Jiuqudong- Nine Turns Tunnel is another stretch of the old road, about two kilometres long. The whole section is reserved to pedestrian; the new road runs into a separate tunnel.
23.2 KM – Tiansiang (Tienhshiang) - Tiansiang is a very tiny village. There is a beautiful pagoda and a temple nested on a green hill, overlooking Tiansiang that can be reached easily crossing the suspension bridge.
TOURS-
- Taroko Gorge Full-Day Tour From Taipei by Viator- from $145.00 USD - 13 hours (Approx.). by Train.
- Taroko Gorge in a Day-by MyTaiwanTour https://www.mytaiwantour.com from $220 USD-14.30 hrs by Flight.
Presented by- V P Gupta