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Journey Through Taipei: Culture, Cuisine, and More
Curated by
davidbrown
3 min read
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Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, offers visitors a captivating blend of modern urban life and rich cultural heritage. From its iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper to ancient temples and bustling night markets, the city presents a diverse array of attractions and experiences. With efficient public transportation, world-class museums, and a renowned food scene, Taipei caters to various interests, making it an exciting destination for travelers seeking to explore the heart of Taiwanese culture and contemporary Asian city life.
Arrival and Getting Around Taipei
Visitors to Taipei typically arrive at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located about 40 kilometers west of the city center.
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From the airport, travelers can easily access Taipei using the efficient public transportation system. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) subway network is a popular choice, offering clean and punctual service from 6am to midnight throughout the city.2
For those preferring road transport, airport buses and taxis are readily available. Once in the city, getting around is convenient with options including the extensive bus network, the eco-friendly YouBike bike-sharing system, and affordable taxis. Most visitors find the EasyCard, which can be used across various modes of transport, to be the most convenient payment method for navigating Taipei's well-developed public transportation infrastructure.3
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Iconic Taipei Sights
Taipei offers a diverse array of must-visit attractions that showcase its rich cultural heritage and modern marvels. The iconic Taipei 101, once the world's tallest building, provides breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck
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. For history enthusiasts, the National Palace Museum houses an extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts2
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. The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, with its striking architecture and surrounding gardens, offers insight into Taiwan's political history1
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. Nature lovers can explore Yangmingshan National Park or hike up Elephant Mountain for panoramic city views1
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. The city's spiritual side is evident in temples like Longshan Temple, a beautiful blend of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian faiths3
. For a taste of local life, the bustling Shilin Night Market is perfect for sampling street food and shopping1
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. Visitors seeking unique experiences can ride the Maokong Gondola for tea tasting in the hills or explore the quirky Modern Toilet restaurant for an unusual dining adventure1
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Taipei's Culinary Delights
Taipei's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, offering a diverse range of dishes that reflect Taiwan's rich cultural heritage. The city is renowned for its street food, with night markets like Shilin serving up local delicacies such as stinky tofu, oyster omelettes, and beef noodle soup
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. For a more upscale dining experience, restaurants like Addiction Aquatic Development offer fresh seafood at reasonable prices2
. Taiwanese cuisine often features pork as the most commonly eaten meat, with dishes based around white rice3
. The influence of various Chinese regional cuisines is evident, with Sichuan, Cantonese, and Shanghai-style delicacies widely available3
. Visitors can also explore fusion cuisine, which is popular in Taiwan, blending traditional flavors with international influences4
. For those seeking authentic Taiwanese flavors, dishes like braised pork rice with oysters and scallion pancakes with egg and basil are must-tries5
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Vibrant Nightlife and Markets
Taipei's nightlife comes alive after dark, with its vibrant night markets taking center stage. The city boasts numerous markets, each offering a unique atmosphere and culinary delights. Shilin Night Market, the largest and most famous, features over 500 food stalls and shops selling everything from local snacks to souvenirs
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. Raohe Street Night Market, stretching 600 meters, is known for its Michelin-listed beef noodles and entrails soup4
. For a more traditional experience, Huaxi Night Market (Snake Alley) offers a glimpse into Taipei's past with its nostalgic ambiance2
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. Fashion enthusiasts should head to Ximending Night Market, dubbed the "Harajuku of Taipei" for its trendy boutiques and department stores4
. These markets not only serve as culinary hotspots but also provide a window into local culture, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the pulsating heart of Taipei's nighttime economy2
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Essential Taipei Travel Tips
When visiting Taipei, there are several helpful tips to enhance your experience:
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Learn basic Mandarin phrases like "hello" (nǐ hǎo) and "thank you" (xièxie) to connect with locals, though many Taiwanese are happy to practice their English12.
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Purchase an EasyCard for convenient use on public transportation, including the MRT and buses. You can buy and top up the card at convenience stores like 7-Eleven123.
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Be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially during the summer monsoon season. Pack a lightweight raincoat or umbrella, and consider wearing flip-flops on rainy days2.
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Follow local food bloggers or search social media using hashtags to discover hidden culinary gems beyond touristy spots2.
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Tipping is not customary in Taiwan and may even be considered insulting in some cases2.
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Related
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