Overview
This is a sweet visit to a city where few have expectations and this will deliver surprise.
Taipei is a tough little city whose beauty lies in its blend of Chinese culture with a curious fusion of Japanese, Southeast Asian and American. It is far more modern than you would expect and yet, as with many of the Asian capitals, it speaks to its past. Nature rules here and there is plenty to find and very accessible to visitors.
Begin your day with an informative drive into Taipei. Your guide can answer questions and address the day ahead during your ride.
While energy is high and the temperature is the most moderate of the day, we begin at Elephant Mountain. This trail does offer the best close up views of Taipei 101 and eastern downtown Taipei but remember that it is a steep path with lots of steps. Steps mean uphill so please up the mountain can be completed in under 2 hours but allow yourself more time to take in the scenery. Please evaluate this activity during your participation as it is not an easy climb and you can turn around at any moment of your hike.
Your vehicle will look particularly special after your hiking adventure and now you will dive into the city. You may think that the best part of your visit to Taipei 101 is that you are taking an express elevator and it is true that is wonderful, as are the views from the top. But you are surely hungry by now and in the lower level is one of several locations of the very famous Din Tai Fung dumpling shop. This organization has won a Michelin Star for its fabulous soup dumplings and after you watch the line of dumpling making chefs, you will want to try them all. And we second that motion - they are beyond wonderful. So the sights from above and below are very fulfilling in the center of Taipei.
In the midst of the commotion is the Miramar Entertainment Park and here you can enjoy another lofty venture on the famous Miramar Ferris Wheel. This again will deliver another view of Taipei and along with the locals, you can enjoy it to its fullest.
Timed correctly, your visit to the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall will deliver the changing of the guards. This vast solemn building does speak to the period when Chian Kai-Shek ruled. This does remain one of the country’s most famous buildings. Your visit will last as long as you wish. You can tour this impressive blue and white structure and learn about the history of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek and the historic split between mainland China and Taiwan and note the guards around the property. This is most impressive from the outside.
Food is part of culture and if you saved some room, we will move to Yongkang Street for a little bubble tea and beef noodle soup. This does not have to be more than a taste before you head back to the pier. Learning about how different people live is so much about their food, the culinary aspect of what they eat and how it is prepared. So give it is try before completing your day and your ride back to your starting point.
- Food, beverages, gratuities are not included.
- Admissions are not included. Express tickets will be provided whenever available.
- Please dress in comfortable clothes particularly for your hike.
- The ride from Keelung to Taipei is about 40 minutes.
- Maokong Gondola is closed on Monday.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:00 AM, duration: 8 hours Length approximate
