Things to Know About Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is a bustling metropolis known for its modern skyline, lively night markets, rich history, and cultural heritage. This city seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary influences, offering visitors a unique experience of East meets West.
Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.
Currency: The official currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD).
Transportation: Taipei has an efficient public transportation system, including the Taipei Metro (MRT), buses, and taxis. The EasyCard is a convenient way to pay for public transport.
Safety: Taipei is generally very safe for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Attractions to See in Taipei
Taipei 101: One of the world’s tallest buildings, Taipei 101 offers panoramic views of the city from its observatory on the 89th floor. The skyscraper also houses a shopping mall with high-end stores and restaurants.
National Palace Museum: Home to one of the largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts in the world. The museum features ancient treasures, including jade, porcelain, and calligraphy spanning over 5,000 years of history.
Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall: A grand monument dedicated to Taiwan’s former president, Chiang Kai-Shek. The site includes a museum, gardens, and a large plaza that hosts cultural events and ceremonies.
Shilin Night Market: One of Taipei’s most famous night markets, offering a wide variety of street food, snacks, clothing, and souvenirs. It’s a must-visit spot for experiencing local cuisine and vibrant market life.
Ximending: A bustling shopping and entertainment district known as the “Harajuku of Taipei.” It features trendy shops, restaurants, street performers, and a lively nightlife scene.
Longshan Temple: One of Taipei’s oldest and most important temples, dedicated to Buddhist and Taoist deities. The temple is known for its intricate architecture, dragon sculptures, and serene atmosphere.
Elephant Mountain: A popular hiking spot offering stunning views of Taipei, especially Taipei 101. The hike is relatively short but steep, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Beitou Hot Springs: Located in the Beitou district, this area is known for its natural hot springs. Visitors can enjoy hot spring baths, visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, and explore thermal valley parks.
Taipei Zoo: One of Asia’s largest zoos, featuring a diverse range of animals and a special area for the giant panda exhibit. The zoo is a family-friendly attraction with beautiful gardens and educational displays.
Yangmingshan National Park: A scenic national park located just outside Taipei, known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, hiking trails, and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
Weather and Conditions at Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
Weather: Taipei has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Summers (June to September) are hot and rainy, with temperatures averaging around 86°F (30°C). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 54-64°F (12-18°C).
Current Weather: For current weather conditions and forecasts, consult a reliable weather forecasting service.
Travel Tips
Dress Code: Dress comfortably for the humid climate. Light clothing is recommended during summer, and a light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler winter evenings.
Local Cuisine: Taipei offers a diverse culinary scene with specialties like beef noodle soup, dumplings, stinky tofu, and bubble tea. Night markets are great places to sample a wide variety of local dishes.
Health Precautions: Stay hydrated and use sunscreen to protect against the sun. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but many locals prefer bottled or filtered water. Consider carrying an umbrella or raincoat during the rainy season.
Bargaining: Bargaining is not common in most stores, but you may be able to negotiate prices in night markets and with street vendors.
Time Zone: Taipei operates on Taiwan Standard Time (TST), which is UTC+8.
Taipei is a dynamic city offering a blend of traditional culture and modern attractions. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, enjoying panoramic views from skyscrapers, or indulging in local delicacies at night markets, Taipei provides an enriching and memorable experience for every traveler.
