Taipei

Taipei is Taiwan's capital and largest city, set in the Taipei Basin in the island's north. The city blends dense modern districts, temple-rich old neighbourhoods, mountain trails and a famously rich food culture, with Taipei 101 rising over the skyline as its most recognisable landmark.

Taipei's identity is shaped by layers of history, from Qing-era temples and Japanese colonial architecture to Nationalist-era monuments. The National Palace Museum holds one of the world's most important collections of Chinese art, while Longshan Temple, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and the old city gates connect visitors to different periods of the city's past.

Districts such as Xinyi, Daan, Zhongzheng, Wanhua and Datong each offer a different atmosphere: Xinyi for skyscrapers, shopping and nightlife, Daan for cafés and green space, Wanhua for historic streets, and Ximending for youth culture and street food. Beitou's hot springs, Maokong's tea houses and the Elephant Mountain hike add easy outdoor escapes within the city.

Taipei is a major business and technology centre, home to leading electronics and semiconductor firms, international trade shows and a growing start-up scene. Its food culture is a major draw, from Shilin and Raohe night markets to beef noodle shops, dumpling houses and the city's famous bubble tea.

For both leisure and business travellers, Taipei combines efficient infrastructure, a clean and reliable MRT system, welcoming hospitality and a distinctive mix of traditional and contemporary experiences.