My Taipei Travel Diary

Highlights of Taipei: 5 Must-visit Attractions 1. Taipei 101: A Landmark in the Clouds Observation Deck: After purchasing a ticket, take the world's fastest elevator (only 37 seconds to the 89th floor) to the 360° observation deck, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Taipei Basin. On a clear day, you can even see the mouth of the Tamsui River. New Year's Eve: Every year on December 31, starting at 23:00, a 288-second New Year's Eve fireworks display lights up the sky above Taipei 101. The best places to watch are the Six Giant Rocks on Elephant Mountain or the outdoor bars in the Xinyi District. Technology: The world's largest damper, the "wind damper ball," is hidden on the B1 floor. During typhoons, you can see it swinging to counteract the building's sway (the dynamic exhibition hall is open daily from 10:00–21:00). 2. National Palace Museum: A Treasure Trove of Chinese Civilization Museum Highlights: ▶ Jadeite Cabbage (3rd floor): A jade carving from the Qing Dynasty, the cabbage leaves with crickets and grasshoppers have profound meanings, symbolizing fertility and prosperity. ▶ Meat-shaped Stone (3rd floor): Its natural texture resembles a piece of Dongpo pork. ▶ Mao Gong Ding (2nd floor): A bronze vessel from the Western Zhou Dynasty, with the longest inscription (499 characters) on the inner wall. In-depth Tour: Rent AR guide glasses (TWD300/4 hours) and scan the artifacts to trigger 3D historical scenes. The museum is open until 21:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, allowing you to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more immersive experience. 3. Yangmingshan National Park: A Wonderful Blend of Nature and Hot Springs Seasonal Scenery: 🌸 Cherry blossoms bloom from February to March (the cherry blossoms on Pingjing Street Lane 42 are particularly charming). 🌿 Calla lilies and hydrangeas bloom from March to May (a limited-time view in the Zhuzihu area). 🍁 Silvergrass sways from November to December (the silver-white silvergrass on the Xiaoyoukeng Trail is like a wave). Hot Springs: The foot bath in Sulfur Valley is free (bring your own towel), or choose Kagaya, a Japanese-style hot spring hotel, to experience the comfort and pleasure of the green sulfur spring. 4. Shilin Night Market: A Lively Display of Taiwan's Night Food Culture Food Recommendations: 🍳 Zhongchenghao Oyster Omelet (No. 101, Jihe Rd): Fat oysters with special sweet and spicy sauce, delicious. 🐔 Hot Star Large Fried Chicken (No. 113, Wenlin Rd): A crispy chicken cutlet larger than your face, only available for takeout. 🍚 Guo's Scallion Pancake (No. 19, Danan Rd): A half-cooked egg with homemade spicy sauce, unforgettable. Cultural Exploration: Cicheng Temple (in the middle of the night market) is a great place to pray for wealth. Locals often come to pray for blessings. 5. Jiufen Old Street: A Fantasy World Like Spirited Away Golden Hours: ▶ 17:30–18:30 The sunset dyes the Keelung Mountain and sea red, a picturesque view. ▶ After 19:00, a thousand red lanterns light up. The terrace of Amei Teahouse is a popular photo spot (consumption required). Route: Start from Jishan Sea-view Pavilion, pass Shengping Theater (free nostalgic movie exhibition), stroll along the steps of Shuqi Road (classic lantern street), and finally enjoy Dongding Oolong tea at Qingbian Road Teahouse. Travel Tips 3-day Classic Route: D1 Taipei 101 + National Palace Museum / D2 Yangmingshan National Park + Beitou Hot Spring / D3 Jiufen Old Street + Pingxi Sky Lantern Photography Enthusiast Route: Go to Elephant Mountain to shoot the sunrise of Taipei 101 → the sunset of Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf → the night view of Maokong Gondola (💡Transportation between attractions: Take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle at Taipei Main Station to conveniently connect to attractions such as Yangmingshan and Jiufen. The journey takes about 40–90 minutes.)