Taiwan is on of the most exciting countries to visit in Asia. It’s capital city, Taipei is a modern metropolis with historic details and a culture that is both ancient and cutting edge.

Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest buildings, towers above everything else in the city. It is a symbol of the country’s economic prosperity. It is also an example of neo-classical Chinese architecture. The building is divided into eight sections (an auspicious number in Chinese mythology) and seems to resemble some of the ancient multi-layered temples scattered around the Taiwanese countryside.

Taipei is a place of history. When Chinese nationalists fled to the island, they brought with them a huge collection of artifacts. Many of these are housed at the National Palace Museum. This stunning building is not to be missed. Not every venue is so infused with history, though. Taiwan’s film scene is making waves worldwide. Spot - Taipei Film House is the best place to get a taste of the art house edge of the industry. Spot is more than a theater. Cafes and Bistros in and around the building make the art house scene move beyond the theater seats. There are literally a hundred exhibit halls around the city; some are offbeat (The Museum of Drinking Water), some unique (Museum of Formosan Aborigines).

Taipei is also a city of parks and temples. Longshan Temple is one of the most popular places of worship. Locals come in hordes to pray here and the architecture is sublime. The small, lotus-strewn lakes of Taipei Botanical Gardens are indelible image of the city. They seem ageless, even though the park itself is a mere hundred years old (young by Taiwanese standards). There are plenty of other chances to view nature in the mountainous areas outside the city.

Taipei boasts plenty of places to shop and dance the night away as well. All in all, it is a city with a strong sense of history and its eyes on the future.

Hotels in Taipei