Taiwan is a scenic island, fitting a lot of different scenery into its relatively compact area. The capital Taipei alone contains a lot of scenic spots. So whether you are on a transit tour, a weekend break or a longer visit, there is no shortage of interesting, beautiful places to see in Taipei.

From classical Chinese architecture to striking modern buildings, tranquil green scenes to the throb of a popular shopping area, Taipei has all sorts of scenery. Both interesting and photogenic, it offers an ideal combination for all sorts of travellers. Here we share eleven great scenic places for you to see in Taipei.

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and Cultural Centre

The most famous landmark in the Zhongzheng area is this massive hall which commemorates Taiwan’s first president.

It was constricted in the 1970s but with its distinctive blue tiles and white walls it has a timeless feeling. Although it is a popular site, its sheer size means that at least in the grounds you rarely feel crowded. The grounds are well-maintained, offering lovely views. Both building and gardens lean heavily on symmetrical designs from traditional Chinese building layout.

Grand Hotel

Most tourists pass this imposing building travelling between Taoyuan airport and Taipei. With its distinctive classical Chinese design on an unparalleled scale, it makes for a lovely view from afar and also up close. Its enormity means that it is visible for miles around, but because it is traditionally proportioned it fits into the landscape well.

Even if you are not staying at the hotel, it is worth a visit to see the building’s fine details. The classical design makes it an inspiring place to stop for Chinese tea and enjoy the decoration.

Taipei 101

This building looms tall across the city almost wherever you are in Taipei. Once the world’s tallest building, it remains an awesome and unique sight.

Although it is internationalist in style, one reason many tourists like to see 101 up close is that it is also a very Asian building with a host of specifically Asian design touches.

From outside the building offers all sorts of excellent photography angles. Or you can go inside and up to the observation decks on the 89^th floor and the outside deck two floors higher. There you will enjoy an unimpeded view in every direction over the Taipei area. The massive dampener which helps keep the building’s balance is also a popular sight.

Ximending

Different people like different kinds of scenery. If you are looking for a buzzing trendy street scene surrounded by traditional buildings, Ximending can be just the spot.

Ximending is a perennial tourist favourite due to its happening vibe and wide assortment of small shops selling cut price clothing and souvenirs. But even if you are not ready to shop till you drop, its lively bustle and atmosphere can make it a lovely place to spend some time.

National Palace Museum and Zhishan Garden

The National Palace Museum has a stunning collection of antiquities and objects from Chinese history, and is well worth a visit. Even if you are not a museum fan, however, the large, distinctive building depicted on many postcards of Taipei is worth a look. With a lot of space around it, and a tranquil traditional park called Zhishan Garden from which to get the perfect angle for photographs, this is a scenic spot in the heart of the city.

Sanxia

Take a step into the past in the Sanxia district of New Taipei City.

Formerly an economic centre, merchants’ wealth helped build the red brick buildings and small lanes in the early twentieth century. Today, these are well preserved in Old Street. Sanxia offers an atmospheric opportunity to immerse yourself in the kind of aesthetically compelling streetscape you may imagine from classic Asian movies.

Huajiang Waterfowl Park

This park offers lovely views of various birds in a pretty waterfront setting.

It has a lot of the standard sports facilities of other large parks. What makes it special is that the environment here is built to encourage visits from water ducks and other fowl. So if you want somewhere green by the water to get up close with nature, it is the perfect scenic setting.

1914 Creative Park

This collection of former industrial buildings has been transformed into a hipster hangout. The artisanal shops, boutique cafes and trendy eateries provide lots to do. Its mixture of old-school buildings, in leafy grounds with trees and walkways, mean that it is a scenic spot in the city.

This is a charming collection of old buildings with individual character. Walking in the alleyways which wind between them, you can see modern Taiwan and old Taiwan merge seamlessly in a single place.

Elephant Mountain

The name Elephant Mountain makes this sound very exotic, yet the area is easily reachable by MRT. Also known as Xiangshan, the hill is home to a walking trail and many locals feel it offers the most scenic panorama in Taipei. From the first step, it rewards visitors with an excellent vista out over the city of Taipei. At the top is a viewing platform which allows for the best view of all. The hill is not very high and so not too difficult to climb for walkers of even moderate ability. Its outdoors beauty and breathtaking view make it a worthwhile spot to visit.

Wulai Cable Car

Finally, if you are willing to travel a little bit outside of the city for a good view on it, it is difficult to beat Wulai.

Sitting around half an hour from Taipei, Wulai has a countryside feeling. With hot springs, waterfalls, and traditional villages this is a very picturesque place in which to spend a few hours. Take the cable car which soars up above the village and you are rewarded with a panoramic view out across Taipei and the surrounding countryside.