TAIPEI

A study in history and modernity, the port city of Taipei found its identity as a political, cultural and economic power. The electronics hub and capital of Taiwan, officially the Republic of China, is home to approximately 2.6 million people. Any number of sights — from the third-tallest building in the world to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall — and activities —tai chi in area parks, hiking in Yangmingshan National Park, relaxing in the public hot springs or shopping in the famed night markets — await the traveler eager to learn more about Taiwan’s most populous city.

GETTING THERE

Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is 30 miles from the city center and about a one-hour drive. A number of international carriers serve the airport, including the country’s national carrier, EVA Air. From the airport, it’s easy to hail a cab; the ride will cost around $50. Two bus services — Airbus and Evergreen — operate 6 a.m. until midnight. The 60- to 90-minute ride is about $5.

GETTING AROUND

A traveler’s best three options for navigating Taipei are the MRT metro system, taxis and the bus. The MRT operates every three to eight minutes; day passes can be purchased for travel from 6 a.m. until midnight. A one-day pass is about $8; two-, three- and five-day increments are available. A one-way trip on the citywide bus system is approximately 50 cents. Yellow metered cabs are plentiful in Taipei, starting at about $3 for the first 0.8 mile and about 20 cents for every 0.15 mile thereafter.

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Longshan Temple
Originally constructed in 1738, the oldest temple in Taiwan was damaged and rebuilt and renovated several times as a result of earthquakes, fires and bombings in World War II. Today the popular temple is a communal place to worship Buddhist, Taoist and folk deities. The dragon details throughout pay homage to the Dragon Mountain Temple translation of its name.

National Palace Museum
The collection of nearly 700,000 ancient artifacts and artworks housed here celebrate 8,000 years of Chinese history. The museum’s must-sees include the Zong Zhou Zhong Bell, in the bronze collection, an important musical instrument commissioned under King Li of Zhou; and the jadeite cabbage and piece of pork in the jade collection.

Taipei 101
Once the world’s tallest building (for more than five years), Taipei 101 is today the third-tallest but still the record holder for the Guinness Book of World Records Fastest Passenger Elevator and the tallest green structure worldwide. Zoom to the top of the nearly 1,700-foot-tall skyscraper and acquaint yourself with the city of Taipei below.

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

Dragon Boat Festival
During this annual festival, dragon boat races are held on Taipei’s rivers and lakes to commemorate former poet and statesman Cyu Yuan.

Taipei Lantern Festival
Held on the 15th day of the first lunar month, the annual festival offers 11 days of elaborate lanterns and celebrations throughout the city.

Yangmingshan Flower Festival
For four weeks, festival-goers celebrate the annual arrival of spring by admiring and celebrating the foliage in Yangmingshan National Park.

RESOURCES

For more information, visit taipeitravel.net