With its modern skyscrapers, traditional temples, and vibrant nightlife, Taipei in Taiwan is like a “mini Tokyo” but without a large number of tourists. Tucked in the northern part of Taiwan, the city is a perfect blend of modern and traditional architecture and amazing food choices.
Taipei is home to one of the tallest buildings in the world, which is the 508 metres tall Taipei 101. The building has a stunning observation deck on the 89th and 91st floors. The massive tuned mass damper (TMD) stabilises the building against earthquakes and typhoons. Not only this, but tourists can also visit the Taipei 101 Mall for luxury shopping and dining.
Longshan Temple in the city is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Taiwan. Built in 1738 during the Qing Dynasty, it serves as a centre for Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian worship, showcasing stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and a rich spiritual atmosphere.
The gorgeous temple features traditional Chinese architecture, including a red-golden roof, dragon pillars, and intricate wood carvings. The Main Hall houses Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, a central deity in Buddhism.
The city also boasts one of Asia’s most comprehensive public transport networks, making travel around the city convenient, affordable, and efficient.
The newly built Airport MRT has cut travel time between the city and Taoyuan International Airport to just 35 minutes. Meanwhile, the High-Speed Rail (HSR), reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h, allows travellers to reach destinations like Kaohsiung—350 km south—in just 96 minutes.
A social media user answering a Reddit question asking ‘Which Asian city people enjoyed the most’ visiting, one said: “I lived in Taipei for four years so it’s still got a hold of my heart. Great museums! Great nature, less than an hour out of the center. World-class food.
“See both traditional temples and uber-modern shopping complexes in the same stretch of road. Don’t forget the Night Markets! Oh my, the night markets! Finally, it’s chill. Not as rushed as Tokyo but also half the price.”
Another social media user commented: “My wife was born in Taipei. The city has a developed but hometown feel. I find it a comfortable and easy city. The people are friendly, and the food is great. We lived in Singapore for 10 years and travelled extensively. I do like Bangkok for the food; Hanoi has a unique charm. I do like Tokyo; it is big but very safe, and the food is exceptional. There are quite a few cities in China that I also like, again, great food.”
But the city’s famous night markets are beyond everything. Shilin Night Market, Raohe and Ningxia are among the best places to visit if you are looking to try some local foods
Beef noodle soup, Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings), Bubble Tea (Boba) and Gua Bao (Pork Belly Bun) are among the must-try foods in the city.
Calling it a “food haven,” one of the travellers who visited the Shilin night market wrote on the TripAdvisor forum: “This market is great. Plenty of stalls and so many things to try. Some you do have to queue for if you’re that tempted. Seems to have a real mix of locals and tourists, though many stalls didn’t have much English at all. Still, explore and feast. It’s an amazing market.”
