Taipei

Once the world's tallest building (2004-2010), Taipei 101 remains Taipei's most iconic landmark shaped like a bamboo stalk. Take one of the world's fastest elevators to the 89th floor observatory for 360-degree panoramic views. The massive 660-ton wind damper ball protects the building from earthquakes and typhoons. The Skyline 460 experience offers rooftop access at 460 meters. Din Tai Fung in the basement serves world-famous xiaolongbao.

Widely considered Taipei's best and most manageable night market. One straight 600-meter street lined with food stalls offering authentic Taiwanese street food. Famous for the Michelin-recommended Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns with perpetual queues. The beautiful Ciyou Temple marks the entrance, with Rainbow Bridge nearby for evening photos. More local atmosphere than tourist-heavy Shilin. Best experienced hungry.

Taipei's most important and beautiful temple, built in 1738 and miraculously surviving Japanese bombing in WWII. A stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture with intricate carvings, colorful decorations, and active Buddhist-Taoist worship. Features the matchmaking deity Yue Lao who provides free red strings for those seeking love. Experience atmospheric incense smoke and observe locals throwing moon blocks for divine guidance.

The most iconic free viewpoint in Taipei, offering postcard-perfect views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. A short but steep 20-minute hike from Xiangshan MRT station through forested trail with stairs. Part of the Four Beasts mountain system. The Six Giant Boulders higher up offer less crowded photo spots. Extremely popular at sunset and New Year's Eve for fireworks viewing.

Houses the world's largest and finest collection of Chinese art, with over 700,000 artifacts spanning 8,000 years of history. The collection was transported from Beijing by the Nationalists in 1949. Star pieces include the impossibly detailed Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat-Shaped Stone carved from jasper. One of the four greatest museums in the world alongside the Louvre, British Museum, and Hermitage.

Massive white monument dedicated to the former ROC leader, set in a grand plaza flanked by the National Theater and Concert Hall. Features 89 steps representing his age at death, hourly changing of the guard ceremony with precise military drills, and impressive bronze statue inside. The surrounding Liberty Square hosts festivals and events. Beautiful blue roof tiles contrast against white marble.

Taiwan's largest and most famous night market, ranked by CNN as Asia's top street food destination. A sprawling maze of food stalls, games, clothing shops, and entertainment spread across multiple streets. The underground food court (Shilin Market) offers air-conditioned eating. Must-tries include XXL fried chicken cutlet, papaya milk, oyster omelette, and stinky tofu. More touristy than Raohe but unmatched variety.

A volcanic national park just 30 minutes from downtown Taipei, offering hot springs, steaming fumaroles, cherry blossoms in spring, and excellent hiking trails. Seven Star Mountain (1,120m) is the tallest peak in greater Taipei area. Includes the famous Beitou Hot Springs area at its base with public and private bathing options. Perfect escape from city heat and humidity, noticeably cooler year-round.