In the heart of Taiwan, Taipei shines as a modern city reflecting a rich culture and history dating back centuries. The vibrant night markets, old Buddhist temples, and world class exhibitions and bars present a contemporary city where hints of tradition shine through. Read on for our guide to a hidden gem in the East…
STAY
Grand Hotel
This temple-styled palace building is a mix of tradition and contemporary touches with rooms made up by red columns and gilded tiles. The sublime view of the Keelung River and Yangming Mountain ahead makes the atmosphere even more delightful. Comforts that are friendly family comes suit with this cultural gem.
Grand Hotel, No.1, Section 4, Zhongshan North Road, Zhongshan District Taipei City, 104427
Humble House Taipei
Humble House is conveniently located within Taipei’s central business district of Xinyi District. Atop a shopping mall, the hotel also offers a view of the renowned Taipei 101 skyscraper. Find peace within their minimalistic style, alongside installations that merge art with living. Comfort and curiosity collide.
Humble House Taipei, No. 18, Songgao Road., Xinyi District., Taipei 110, Taiwan
DINE
Mitsui
Dine at a local favorite devoted to creating dishes from natural, locally sourced ingredients. This Japanese fine diner is easy two or family, pick from an extensive ala carte menu from Wagyu to fresh seafood platters, sushi, to Nigiri Omakase sets. On a long night out, don’t forget to complement your meal with sake or their curated list of Australian and European import wines.
Mitsui, No.34, Nong-an Street, Taipei City
Salt and Stone
After stopping at Taipei 101 swing by this East-West fusion haunt serving delectable house-made pastries, pastas, and pizzas. Sit down and unwind with a drink from a rich menu of local teas, beers, and cocktails.
Salt and Stone, 4F., No. 45, City Hall Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110
DRINK
INDULGE Bistro
A European-inspired bar true to its name. Indulgence, decadence and debauchery for the night owls that flock. Chester-field style leather couches in demure surrounds with crystal-studded light fixtures, and awe-inspiring drinks adapted from Taiwan’s local tea traditions. Bottoms up.
INDULGE Bistro, No. 11, Lane 219, Section 1, Fuxing S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106
VISIT
Taipei Fine Arts Museum
Taipei Fine Arts Museum pushes contemporary art exhibitions alongside local Taiwanese artists and international curators sharing their cultural perceptions in art and design. Most recently, TFAM hosted the 12th Taipei Biennial, which showcased the museum as a “planetarium” to examine people’s diverse perspectives on geopolitical affairs and the ecological crisis.
Taipei Fine Arts Museum, No. 181, Section 3, Zhongshan N Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491
Longshan Temple
The 300-year-old temple in Taipei’s Wanhua District will take you on a spiritual journey to visit the Buddhist deity, “Guanyin” known as the “Goddess of Mercy.” Being one of the ‘big three’ temples of Taipei, Longshan is a venerable cultural relic for people in Taiwan. After several reconstructions, it remains an embodiment of traditional folk art with halls and altars cast in bronze, and fine stone and wood carvings.
Longshan Temple, No. 211, Guangzhou St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10853
Shilin Night Market
For both locals and tourists alike, night markets in Taiwan are an exciting culinary experience for all. Filled with bright lights and tantalizing food aromas, Taipei’s Shilin Night Market offers an euphoric eating experience in a central marketplace, with food vendors, amusement arcades, souvenirs, and boutiques. Come for the buzz of a crowd that goes ‘til late
Shilin Night Market, No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111
Images sourced from Grand Hotel; Humble House Taipei via Instagram; Mitsui; Salt and Stone Instagram; INDULGE Bistro; Taipei Fine Arts Museum; Longshan Temple; Shilin Night Market via Instagram
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