Taipei Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Taipei
Taipei is the political, economic, educational and cultural center of Taiwan, with a population of 2.5 million. The region of Taipei had been mainly inhabited by the Ketagalan tribe prior to the large influx of mainland Chinese immigrants in the 17th century.
Under the Qing Dynasty of China, Taipei was made the capital of Taiwan in 1887 when the island was incorporated into a Chinese province. Following the first Sino-Japanese War of 1895, Taiwan was annexed by Japan. The Japanese colonized the island until 1945, when it was returned to China after the World War II.
Taipei is a home to various architectural and cultural landmarks, such as Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, Presidential Office Building, Taipei Guest House, Ximending and several night markets dispersed throughout the city.
Liberty Square is the political and cultural center of the city. At its east end stands the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, which is flanked by the National Concert Hall on the north and the National Theater on the south. The square is a place for public gatherings, as well as a home to civic parks.
Presidential Office Building and Taipei Guest House are the two historical buildings constructed during the Japanese colonial period. Designed by Japanese architects, both buildings feature a Baroque style that clearly takes inspiration from the classical European architecture.
No visit to Taipei is complete without a trip to one of its night markets. At the Ximending Night Market you will find hundreds of stalls selling clothes, accessories, makeup products, and traditional Taiwanese snacks. The latter are particularly tempting while watching an array of shows by the local street performers – an experience not to be forgotten for a long time!
Taipei is a fascinating place which blends seamlessly ancient Chinese traditions with modern trends. Follow this self-guided walking tour to see the key landmarks of Taipei and appreciate the city's vibrant culture in its entirety.
Under the Qing Dynasty of China, Taipei was made the capital of Taiwan in 1887 when the island was incorporated into a Chinese province. Following the first Sino-Japanese War of 1895, Taiwan was annexed by Japan. The Japanese colonized the island until 1945, when it was returned to China after the World War II.
Taipei is a home to various architectural and cultural landmarks, such as Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, Presidential Office Building, Taipei Guest House, Ximending and several night markets dispersed throughout the city.
Liberty Square is the political and cultural center of the city. At its east end stands the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, which is flanked by the National Concert Hall on the north and the National Theater on the south. The square is a place for public gatherings, as well as a home to civic parks.
Presidential Office Building and Taipei Guest House are the two historical buildings constructed during the Japanese colonial period. Designed by Japanese architects, both buildings feature a Baroque style that clearly takes inspiration from the classical European architecture.
No visit to Taipei is complete without a trip to one of its night markets. At the Ximending Night Market you will find hundreds of stalls selling clothes, accessories, makeup products, and traditional Taiwanese snacks. The latter are particularly tempting while watching an array of shows by the local street performers – an experience not to be forgotten for a long time!
Taipei is a fascinating place which blends seamlessly ancient Chinese traditions with modern trends. Follow this self-guided walking tour to see the key landmarks of Taipei and appreciate the city's vibrant culture in its entirety.
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Taipei Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Taipei Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: Taiwan » Taipei (See other walking tours in Taipei)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 10
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Author: irenebo
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Taiwan » Taipei (See other walking tours in Taipei)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 10
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Author: irenebo
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Liberty Square
- Taipei Guest House
- 228 Peace Memorial Park
- Presidential Office Building
- Ximending District and Red House Theater
- Ximending Night Market
- Nishi Honganji Square
- Bopiliao Old Street
- Longshan Temple
1) Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (must see)
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a famous national monument, landmark and tourist attraction erected in memory of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, former President of the Republic of China. Surrounded by a park, it stands at the east end of Taipei's Liberty Square and is flanked on the north and south by the National Theater and National Concert Hall.
The Memorial Hall is white with four sides. The roof is blue and octagonal, a shape that picks up the symbolism of the number eight, a number traditionally associated in Asia with abundance and good fortune. Two sets of white stairs, each with 89 steps to represent Chiang's age at the time of his death, lead to the main entrance. The ground level of the memorial houses a library and a museum documenting Chiang Kai-shek's life and career, with exhibits detailing Taiwan's history and development. The upper level contains the main hall, in which a large statue of Chiang Kai-shek is located, and where a guard mounting ceremony takes place at regular intervals.
Why You Should Visit:
The architecture is incredibly unique and views of the square are excellent from top of the Hall's stairs.
The Hall is also flanked by the National Theater & Concert Hall, which are good places to stop for lunch, tea, or gift shopping.
Tip:
The Military Honor Guard changes every hour, on the hour, from 9am to 5pm. Get there 10-15 mins early – it often draws a big crowd. Afterward, you may browse the garden downstairs or museum with its multiple exhibits.
Key tip for best viewing of the changing of the guard ceremony: If facing the statue, stand on the very right side closest to the elevator entrance. There you will see – and be able to take photos of – the new guards coming out, the entire ceremony unobstructed, and then the old guards exiting.
Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am-6pm
The Memorial Hall is white with four sides. The roof is blue and octagonal, a shape that picks up the symbolism of the number eight, a number traditionally associated in Asia with abundance and good fortune. Two sets of white stairs, each with 89 steps to represent Chiang's age at the time of his death, lead to the main entrance. The ground level of the memorial houses a library and a museum documenting Chiang Kai-shek's life and career, with exhibits detailing Taiwan's history and development. The upper level contains the main hall, in which a large statue of Chiang Kai-shek is located, and where a guard mounting ceremony takes place at regular intervals.
Why You Should Visit:
The architecture is incredibly unique and views of the square are excellent from top of the Hall's stairs.
The Hall is also flanked by the National Theater & Concert Hall, which are good places to stop for lunch, tea, or gift shopping.
Tip:
The Military Honor Guard changes every hour, on the hour, from 9am to 5pm. Get there 10-15 mins early – it often draws a big crowd. Afterward, you may browse the garden downstairs or museum with its multiple exhibits.
Key tip for best viewing of the changing of the guard ceremony: If facing the statue, stand on the very right side closest to the elevator entrance. There you will see – and be able to take photos of – the new guards coming out, the entire ceremony unobstructed, and then the old guards exiting.
Opening Hours:
Daily: 9am-6pm
Sight description based on Wikipedia.
2) Liberty Square
Liberty Square (also Freedom Square) is a public plaza. It serves as a major site for public gatherings in Taipei and is home to three major landmarks as well as civic parks. At the east end of Liberty Square stands the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The square is flanked by the National Concert Hall on the north and the National Theater on the south. A park surrounds the plaza and a wall surrounds the site.
Liberty Square regularly serves as the site of mass gatherings in Taiwan. It is the scene for red-carpet ceremonies when Taiwan's president greets foreign dignitaries. Crowds gather at the square throughout the year for outdoor festivals and concerts. The Taipei Lantern Festival regularly takes place on the square. On many days students, athletes and soldiers may be seen at the square, working on drills and dance routines. The National Theater and Concert Hall host over 800 events every year and provide iconic backdrops for events on the square.
The ponds and parks surrounding the memorial and cultural centers feature well-maintained lawns, trees, and pathways. The ponds are filled with colorful koi traditionally found in gardens in East Asia. The parks regularly play host to quieter forms of public activity, such as Go games and taekwondo, Tai Chi and other martial arts practices. Holiday marching band and drum and bugle corps concerts, honor guard drill shows and traditional Chinese dances are also held within the grounds.
Liberty Square regularly serves as the site of mass gatherings in Taiwan. It is the scene for red-carpet ceremonies when Taiwan's president greets foreign dignitaries. Crowds gather at the square throughout the year for outdoor festivals and concerts. The Taipei Lantern Festival regularly takes place on the square. On many days students, athletes and soldiers may be seen at the square, working on drills and dance routines. The National Theater and Concert Hall host over 800 events every year and provide iconic backdrops for events on the square.
The ponds and parks surrounding the memorial and cultural centers feature well-maintained lawns, trees, and pathways. The ponds are filled with colorful koi traditionally found in gardens in East Asia. The parks regularly play host to quieter forms of public activity, such as Go games and taekwondo, Tai Chi and other martial arts practices. Holiday marching band and drum and bugle corps concerts, honor guard drill shows and traditional Chinese dances are also held within the grounds.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.
3) Taipei Guest House
Taipei Guest House is a historical building that was originally constructed in 1901. The Guest House is used for accommodating important national and international guests, and hosting large state banquets and cultural activities. Built in a traditional Baroque style, this well-known structure is called the "most grateful residence house" of Taiwan.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.
4) 228 Peace Memorial Park
228 Peace Memorial Park is a municipal park in Taipei that is also a famous historic site. This park commemorates the victims of the February 28 incident in 1947. The monument at the park's center, designed by Cheng Tzu-Tsai, has an inscription that calls for peace and unity, an inscription with a statement from The 228 Peace Memorial Monument Preparatory Committee, and Micah 4:3-4.
The Taipei 228 Memorial Museum is at the site where the radio station once stood where the February 28 Incident occurred. Visitors can learn more about the history behind the incident and Taipei overall.
One of the things that stands out about this park is its tranquil setting, with a lot of green space. You'll be able to enjoy a leisurely walk around the area, as well as enjoy the chance to sit and enjoy the scenery. The tranquil setting is worth your time.
Opening Hours:
The park is open 24/7
The Taipei 228 Memorial Museum is at the site where the radio station once stood where the February 28 Incident occurred. Visitors can learn more about the history behind the incident and Taipei overall.
One of the things that stands out about this park is its tranquil setting, with a lot of green space. You'll be able to enjoy a leisurely walk around the area, as well as enjoy the chance to sit and enjoy the scenery. The tranquil setting is worth your time.
Opening Hours:
The park is open 24/7
5) Presidential Office Building
The Presidential Office Building was constructed during Japanese rule in Taiwan, bombed by the Allies during World War II, and rebuilt. The building features a Baroque style. The building has been the seat of the Republic of China's government and Presidential workplace since 1950. Today, this building enjoys status as a major historical landmark in the city of Taipei.
The entrance area has a relatively simple design. A marble grand staircase and porch featuring Corinthian and Ionic pillars help create an impressive reception area for visitors, as well as dignitaries who come here on official business. The Ching-Kuo Hall is the building's primary location for receptions, including visits from heads of state and presidential inaugurations.
An important historical document on display is the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, drafted after World War II. This building also has an internal courtyard that is worth a look at. Features present in this courtyard include gardens and a covered walkway.
Tip:
To take a free tour (circa 60-90 mins), go around to the side entrance and line up to go through security check first (passport/bags). Once inside, be sure to ask politely if you are allowed taking photos in some areas (video strictly forbidden anywhere). At the end, there's a nice small gift shop full of souvenirs and a spot where you can buy specialty stamps.
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 9–11:30am
The entrance area has a relatively simple design. A marble grand staircase and porch featuring Corinthian and Ionic pillars help create an impressive reception area for visitors, as well as dignitaries who come here on official business. The Ching-Kuo Hall is the building's primary location for receptions, including visits from heads of state and presidential inaugurations.
An important historical document on display is the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, drafted after World War II. This building also has an internal courtyard that is worth a look at. Features present in this courtyard include gardens and a covered walkway.
Tip:
To take a free tour (circa 60-90 mins), go around to the side entrance and line up to go through security check first (passport/bags). Once inside, be sure to ask politely if you are allowed taking photos in some areas (video strictly forbidden anywhere). At the end, there's a nice small gift shop full of souvenirs and a spot where you can buy specialty stamps.
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 9–11:30am
6) Ximending District and Red House Theater (must see)
The Ximending District is Taiwan's first pedestrian zone. In addition to being home to a large collection of stores, the district also attracts street vendors. As many as three million shoppers visit this area every month. Some of the larger stores represented in this area include Shizilin Square and Wannien Department Store.
One of the focal points in the Ximending District is the Red House Theater. This building dates back to 1908 when Tapei was under Japanese rule and originally served as a market building. This theater consists of an octagonal building for theatrical performances, along with a cafe and display showcasing the building's history and a cruciform-shaped building that hosts shops.
There is a square in front of the Red House Theater that has served as the location for the Lantern Festival in the past. You might even be lucky to see a celebrity performing an unannounced concert in the square area. The area immediately behind the theater is host to a number of bars that contribute to much of the city's nightlife.
One of the focal points in the Ximending District is the Red House Theater. This building dates back to 1908 when Tapei was under Japanese rule and originally served as a market building. This theater consists of an octagonal building for theatrical performances, along with a cafe and display showcasing the building's history and a cruciform-shaped building that hosts shops.
There is a square in front of the Red House Theater that has served as the location for the Lantern Festival in the past. You might even be lucky to see a celebrity performing an unannounced concert in the square area. The area immediately behind the theater is host to a number of bars that contribute to much of the city's nightlife.
7) Ximending Night Market
The Ximending Night Market is not just for night owls. This market is a great place to go shopping, try various types of food and go for an enjoyable walk in a safe space.
This market is a favorite among visitors because it is clean and has plenty of space. The street is closed to traffic, which contributes to the open nature of the market. Along with multiple restaurants, the market sees regular street performers who provide endless entertainment.
Though there are many night markets in Taipei, Ximending Night Market is unique because the neighborhood's routes are embroiled with Taiwan's Japanese era. As such, much of the visible architecture has a distinct Japanese influence. Many of the food stalls also get their flavor from Japan.
Ximending Night Market is popular among youth thanks to many quirky and interesting shops. Those traveling with youngsters may find a claw machine shop or bubble tea cafes that sell fun and trendy drinks.
Ximending Night Market opens at 5 PM and closes promptly at 11 PM every night.
This market is a favorite among visitors because it is clean and has plenty of space. The street is closed to traffic, which contributes to the open nature of the market. Along with multiple restaurants, the market sees regular street performers who provide endless entertainment.
Though there are many night markets in Taipei, Ximending Night Market is unique because the neighborhood's routes are embroiled with Taiwan's Japanese era. As such, much of the visible architecture has a distinct Japanese influence. Many of the food stalls also get their flavor from Japan.
Ximending Night Market is popular among youth thanks to many quirky and interesting shops. Those traveling with youngsters may find a claw machine shop or bubble tea cafes that sell fun and trendy drinks.
Ximending Night Market opens at 5 PM and closes promptly at 11 PM every night.
8) Nishi Honganji Square
Nishi Honganji Square is a park that is on a site once home to a 19th century Japanese temple. The main temple building was destroyed by a fire in 1975. Part of the mausoleum and the head priest's living quarters were the only parts of the building left.
Visitors can access this area by climbing a small hillock. One of the highlights that visitors will notice as they approach the original temple site is a wooden bell tower. The Taipei City Archives are in a building next to the steps that led to the original temple, where visitors can see a map of the square and pick up English-language guide.
Today, the priest's quarters, known as the Rinbansyo, are a teahouse. The teahouse features Japanese-style architecture and has large windows that let in plenty of afternoon light. Enjoy Taiwanese tea and rice dishes in the seating area or at one of the tables and enjoy the relaxing setting.
Visitors can access this area by climbing a small hillock. One of the highlights that visitors will notice as they approach the original temple site is a wooden bell tower. The Taipei City Archives are in a building next to the steps that led to the original temple, where visitors can see a map of the square and pick up English-language guide.
Today, the priest's quarters, known as the Rinbansyo, are a teahouse. The teahouse features Japanese-style architecture and has large windows that let in plenty of afternoon light. Enjoy Taiwanese tea and rice dishes in the seating area or at one of the tables and enjoy the relaxing setting.
9) Bopiliao Old Street
Bopiliao Old Street is one of Taipei's oldest historic streets. One of the things that stand out for visitors is its collection of buildings over 100 years old. The brick buildings on this street have a distinctive style from other buildings in Taipei, making this area stand out for the buildings alone.
There are historical markers providing interesting information about each of the historical locations that you'll find on this street. Preserved buildings open to the public help provide an exciting look into history in the Japanese colonial period. One of the preserved buildings representative of this period contains a schoolroom.
There are exhibits located along the street that provide interesting information about the buildings. You might be able to browse through some herbalists' stalls, as well as catch a street band performing while you are in this area. Regardless of what catches your interest here, you're sure to enjoy the time spent.
There are historical markers providing interesting information about each of the historical locations that you'll find on this street. Preserved buildings open to the public help provide an exciting look into history in the Japanese colonial period. One of the preserved buildings representative of this period contains a schoolroom.
There are exhibits located along the street that provide interesting information about the buildings. You might be able to browse through some herbalists' stalls, as well as catch a street band performing while you are in this area. Regardless of what catches your interest here, you're sure to enjoy the time spent.
10) Longshan Temple (must see)
The Longshan Temple was originally constructed in 1738 and was a place for Chinese settlers to worship. Part of the original construction included Buddhist elements, as well as altars and halls dedicated to the Chinese deities Guan Yu and Mazu. This temple has seen rebuilding and renovations because of earthquakes and fires over the years.
The last rebuilding of the temple took place after World War II. Today, one of the most noteworthy attractions is the outer courtyard, which has unique elements that include Taoist symbols, along with Buddhist and Confucian symbols. The temple and courtyard boast an impressive display of color.
Carvings found throughout the temple and on the exterior are intricate, with a lot of detail. Dragons are famous figures found throughout the temple, and the temple's name translates to "dragon mountain". Buddha figures in gold are also quite popular.
Decorations are popular in the temple, especially during certain holidays. For example, during the Lunar New Year, you are likely to see a lot of lanterns. Flowers are usually in abundance throughout this building.
One of the altars that attract a lot of attention is the altar to Yue Lao, a god revered as being a matchmaker. Single Taipei residents often come to this altar to pray for their true love to go to them and remain with them forever. There are pieces of string that worshipers can take to tie around their true love's wrist when they find them.
Why You Should Visit
The Longshan Temple is one of the oldest and most important temples in Taiwan.
Tip:
The temple can be quite full with tour groups during certain days so try to avoid peak hours. There are local food stalls around the temple and plenty of shops selling Buddhist merch in the nearby underground mall.
Opening Hours:
Daily: 6am-10pm
The last rebuilding of the temple took place after World War II. Today, one of the most noteworthy attractions is the outer courtyard, which has unique elements that include Taoist symbols, along with Buddhist and Confucian symbols. The temple and courtyard boast an impressive display of color.
Carvings found throughout the temple and on the exterior are intricate, with a lot of detail. Dragons are famous figures found throughout the temple, and the temple's name translates to "dragon mountain". Buddha figures in gold are also quite popular.
Decorations are popular in the temple, especially during certain holidays. For example, during the Lunar New Year, you are likely to see a lot of lanterns. Flowers are usually in abundance throughout this building.
One of the altars that attract a lot of attention is the altar to Yue Lao, a god revered as being a matchmaker. Single Taipei residents often come to this altar to pray for their true love to go to them and remain with them forever. There are pieces of string that worshipers can take to tie around their true love's wrist when they find them.
Why You Should Visit
The Longshan Temple is one of the oldest and most important temples in Taiwan.
Tip:
The temple can be quite full with tour groups during certain days so try to avoid peak hours. There are local food stalls around the temple and plenty of shops selling Buddhist merch in the nearby underground mall.
Opening Hours:
Daily: 6am-10pm
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