Things to Do in Taiwan


9 Most Popular Things to Do in Taiwan

If you’re headed to Taiwan, then these are some of the Taiwan tourist spots you have to check out. From temples, museums to night markets full of delectable dishes and more – these are must-visits that you should add to your itinerary, whether you’re traveling solo or with friends.

1. Taipei 101

Standing tall at 508 meters, Taipei 101 is an engineering marvel that not only withstands earthquakes and typhoons – but is also a symbol of technology and Asian tradition fused.

The tower’s double-deck elevators set a record in 2004 by traveling from the the first floor to the observation deck in only 37 seconds.

  • Location: No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District (Southern end of the Xinyi Shopping District)
  • Operation Hours: 11AM to 9:30PM (Sun to Thurs) and 11AM to 10PM (Fri to Sat)
  • Fees: NT$600 (inclusive of entrance to observation deck and museum, and look at tuned mass damper which stops the building from swaying).
  • What You Need to Know: Just 15 minutes away is Elephant Mountain, which is perfect for travelers to trek up for a scenic view of Taipei City. Also, during New Years, Taipei 101 hosts a breathtaking fireworks display that draws in travelers from neighboring countries.

2. Longshan Temple

Built in 1738, Longshan Temple is one of the biggest and oldest temples in Taiwan – it has survived damage from World War II and natural disasters.

Worship at this temple entails a mix of Buddhism, Taoism and that of deities like Mazu.

There is no entrance fee to the temple. However, a donation for its upkeep is appreciated.

  • Location: No. 211, Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City
  • Operation Hours: 6AM to 10PM (daily)
  • What You Need to Know: Atop the temple’s roofs are figures of the phoenix, dragon and other creatures made with porcelain and colored glass – making them the mosaic art a stand out amongst the temple’s intricate details.

3. National Palace Museum

Originally built within Beijing’s Forbidden City in 1925, the National Palace Museum was moved to its current location following the Chinese government’s relocation in 1949.

The National Palace Museum has been fitted with technology that helps preserve over 600,000 Chinese artefacts.

Not all artefacts are displayed at once, they are rotated and spread across four floors and two exhibition halls to avoid wear.

  • Location: No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City
  • Operation Hours: 8:30AM to 6:30PM (Sun to Thurs) and 8:30AM to 9PM (Fri and Sat)
  • Fees: NT$250 (adults), NT$150 (students with ID)
  • What You Need to Know: The best time to visit the museum is during Friday and Saturday evening, and Mondays as well. There are strict rules about photography and no bags are allowed inside – there are lockers available to the side of the entrance wherein you can surrender and claim your belongings.

4. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

In memory of Chiang Kai-shek, former President of the Republic of China, this monument and and tourist attraction was erected in 1980.

The octagon-shaped white building stands at 76 meters, with its eight sides representative of the number “eight” which in Chinese culture is synonymous with fortune and wealth.

There are two sets of 89 steps leading up to Chiang Kai-shek’s bronze statue which is under military guard around the clock – the number of steps represent the age at which Chiang passed away.

  • Location: No. 21, Zhongshan South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
  • Operation Hours: 9AM to 6PM (daily)
  • What You Need to Know: After visiting the statue, make sure you head on down to the museum where you can learn about Chiang’s life and career. There are also several exhibits that cover Taiwan’s history.

5. Taipei Confucius Temple

Located in the Dalongdong Culture Area, the Taipei Confucius Temple is the symbol of Chinese Confucian culture.

Established in 1875, it holds a celebration every September 28 to celebrate Confucius’ birthday and to commemorate Teacher’s Day.

  • Location: No. 275, Dalong Street, Datong District, Taipei City
  • Operation Hours: 8:30AM to 9PM (Tues to Sat), 8:30AM to 5PM (Sun), Closed on Mondays
  • What You Need to Know: Fairly modest architecture-wise when compared to other temples in Taiwan, the temple is indeed of reflection of Confucianism with modest and humble detailing from the beams, to the windows and doors.

6. Shilin Night Market

Considered Taipei’s biggest and most bustling night market, locals and tourists alike can buy a myriad of knick knacks here.

But when push comes to shove, the real reason why people come here is for the food – from tempura, bubble tea, giant fried chicken steak, fried buns, stinky tofu and more, there’s so much to eat that you might leave two pants sizes bigger.

  • Location: No. 101, Jihe Road, Shilin District, Taipei City
  • Operation Hours: 3PM to 1AM (daily)
  • Fees: Prices vary per dish
  • What You Need to Know: The most recommended dish is oyster omelet. True to its name, it is an omelet who’s batter has been mixed with starch for a thicker consistency and with small oysters.A savory sauce may be served atop, though many prefer chili sauce mixed with lime juice.

7. Maokong Gondola

Maokong is a quaint mountain top village that has a scenic view of Taipei City. Known for its locally grown teas, tea aficionados make the trip up via gondolas to visit the many tea houses and stores.

Locals also make a trip to the top for a quick break from the city – the getaway usually entails a cup of tea, dinner and fresh, crisp air.

  • Location: There are three stations that take you to Maokong: Taipei Zoo Station, Taipei Zoo South Station, and Zhinan Temple Station.
  • Operation Hours: Opening hours vary dependent on holidays and weather. 9AM to 9PM (Tues to Thurs) and 9AM to 10PM (Fri to Sun)
  • Fees: Ticket prices vary from NT$50 to NT$350 (dependent on whether or not you’re a local and on which package you choose to avail of – full details here).
  • What You Need to Know: From January to February, guests are treated to a spectacular view of Apricot blooms coming to life. A sea of red, white and pink cover portions of mountain top. While from March to April is the Lupin Season. During this time the Lupin flowers bloom, treating people to a sea of yellow and a refreshing, floral scent.

8. Beitou Public Hot Springs

The Beitou Public Hot Springs stems back to the Japanese occupation, wherein the area began developing resorts, inns, tea houses, parks and public baths.

As a result, a train line and station were erected to accommodate visitors from afar to the relaxing and therapeutic hot waters.

There are three types of springs that can be found in the area: springs with either green sulfur, white sulfur and iron sulfur.

  • Location: No. 6, Zhongshan Road, Beitou District, Taipei City
  • Operation Hours: 5:30AM to 7:30AM, 8AM to 10AM, 10:30AM to 1PM, 1:30PM to 4PM, 4:30PM to 7PM and 7:30PM t0 10PM (daily)
  • What You Need to Know: Before you step in the hot spring, acclimate your body by wetting your foot first and slowly stepping down in to the hot water. Completely immersing yourself right away may lead to dizziness.

9. Museum of Contemporary Art

What was once an elementary school building, then the Taipei City Hall, is now home to several contemporary art pieces.

Although the building itself is a work of art, not to mention historic, many keep coming back to enjoy paintings and scultupres by local and foreign artists alike.

While you can opt to have a guide walk through the museum with you, there are also free audio guides that you can avail of.

  • Location: No. 39, Chang’an West Road, Datong District, Taipei City
  • Operation Hours: 10AM to 6PM(daily except Mondays)
  • Fees: NT$50
  • What You Need to Know: There are contemporary media, photography, architecture and graphic design exhibits from international and local artists who aim to bring world-class masterpieces to the forefront in Taiwan.

Attractions & Activities in Taiwan

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