Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Taipei
02 / POP 2.6 MILLION
Why Go?
For a 300-year-old city, Taipei is having a very late coming-of-age party. But then again,
this unhurried but vibrant capital has taken a while to become comfortable in its own skin.
With Chinese, Japanese and Western influences in its food, culture, folk arts and architec-
ture, Taipei has finally decided that it's a mix, and all the better for it.
As with the multifarious street food, the traveller is advised to go for the
xiao chi
(little
snacks) in everything. Day trips are particularly delicious, and a quick MRT ride takes you
to tea fields, hot springs, river parks, and colonial towns backed by a mountainous nation-
al park. Within Taipei don't miss the Minnan-style temples beautified with unique decor-
ative arts, the heritage lanes turned gourmet cafe and boutique centres, the buzzing neon
neighbourhoods or the nightlife scene, growing in reputation yearly.
When to Go
Jan & Feb
The weeks before and after the Lunar New Year are a great time to visit.
Jun-Sep
Fresh, luscious tropical fruits are readily available.
