Taipei Unveiled: Where Ancient Arts meet Modern Horizons

Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel at 9:00am to start the day.

Morning Taiji Lesson

The morning begins with a skilled taiji (tai chi) master guiding a profound spiritual and physical journey, immersing participants in an ancient Chinese tradition practiced for centuries. Deliberate, flowing movements introduce basic techniques of this meditative and martial art, fostering a sense of balance, harmony, and inner peace. The practice unfolds against the stunning backdrop of an iconic building in Taiwan.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Step inside one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Standing as a symbol of the Kuomintang and Taiwan’s first president, Chiang Kai-shek, the massive commemorative monument is said to mirror the national anthem, with its architecture embodying the “clear blue sky, white sun, and a wholly red earth.” Make your way up the 89 steps – how old Chiang was when he died – to reach the main hall that houses a bronze statue of the former leader. On the hour, watch the changing of the guards before heading back to the main square to wander down the promenade flanked by the National Theater and the National Concert Hall.

Din Tai Fung

The legend of Din Tai Fung needs no introduction; it’s a must-eat for everyone who visits Taipei. Embracing the wait is part of the experience—take a number and explore the surroundings, knowing that Taiwan’s most celebrated specialties await inside. From its humble origins as a small Taipei eatery, Din Tai Fung has grown into a global dumpling sensation while staying true to its roots. Its dedication to excellence shines in every detail, from the precisely crafted 18 folds in each dumpling to its diligent customer service.

Taipei 101 with Fast Track

The world’s tallest building from 2004 to 2010, Taipei 101 is a towering testament to symbolism and sustainability. Traditionally, the number 100 represents perfection, so adding another floor (100 + 1) represented a further breakthrough, of going beyond perfection. The 508-meter-tall skyscraper stands in the Xinyi District of Taipei, and its pagoda-like design has become iconic around the world. After exploring the multi-story shopping mall on the lower floors, ascend to the 89th floor observation deck for stunning 360-degree views of Taipei and mountains. Enjoy easy access to Taipei 101 with the guided fast track pass.

Dadaocheng

Dadaocheng is the most historic area in all of Taipei. Here, age-worn shop fronts selling all manner of goods, produce, spices and medicines await. Dip in to a traditional pharmacy where an array of fragrant herbs sit on display, each with their own healing traits. Name an ailment and the pharmacist will compile a bespoke concoction promised to ameliorate. No ailments to speak of? Then why not purchase a hand-made lantern or a custom tea blend from the shop next door.

Dadaocheng Family Run Tea Factory

This century-old tea house is now run by the 5th-generation of the Wang family and is a popular destination for tea lovers. WangTea began life as a tea wholesaler, one of many in old Dadaocheng, the historic marketplace district of Taipei. Today, in a city transformed it has evolved into a sleek modern space where visitors can learn about, sample and purchase some of their remarkable brews. In a nation of religious tea drinkers, this family is the most devout, and their lab appropriately offers a ‘tea bible gift box’ for visitors to share in their beliefs.

Raohe Night Market

Night markets in Taiwan are a way of life. For any Taiwanese youth, naming the best night market in a given city comes as second nature, often accompanied by a detailed list of must-try dishes and personal favorites. In Taipei, Raohe Night Market is often regarded as a standout, recently surpassing the long-reigning favorite, Shilin. Entering through the towering gates near Ciyou Temple, a sensory journey of enticing flavors and aromas begins. Must-try dishes include Michelin-recommended Fujianese black pepper buns, crispy fried potato spirals, fragrant stinky tofu (an acquired taste), and a selection of classic Taiwanese desserts.

Your guide will return you to your hotel at the end of the day (around 8:00 pm).

Meals included: breakfast and lunch

Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel at 9:00 am to start the day.

Longshan Temple

Located in the heart of old Taipei, Longshan Temple has witnessed a rich history over its nearly 300 years of existence. This colorful, lively, and inclusive temple has survived earthquakes and bombing raids, thanks largely to the strong community that has developed around this sacred space. Wander through the active temple complex, keeping an eye out for the dragon in the lake, locals young and old reading scripture, and the small booths of fortune-tellers.

Lin An Tai Historical House and Museum

Saved from disrepair and near destruction by scholars and historians in the late 1970s, the Lin An Tai house was rebuilt on its current site and opened as a museum in 2000. It now stands as one of the last remaining old Taipei homes, built around a southern Fujianese-style courtyard. The peace and tranquility you’re likely to encounter on a stroll around here are all intentional: the house and gardens were designed to incorporate the principles of feng shui. Look out for the different elements of earth, wood, fire, metal, and water integrated into the buildings and outdoor spaces.

Private calligraphy class at Lin An Tai Historical House

Step into a beautiful oasis for a private, undisturbed calligraphy experience at the historic Lin An Tai Historical House. A serene pavilion is nestled gracefully by the pond amidst lush gardens – where the stillness of the pond and the gentle rustle of trees inspire the ink strokes on paper. This immersive session unfolds within the hushed embrace of this century-old heritage site, offering a deep sense of peace and connection to the past. Following the focused calligraphy practice, the beauty of the entire historical grounds is open for exploration at leisure.

National Palace Museum

With 700,000 pieces spanning thousands of years, the National Palace Museum has one of the largest collections of ancient Chinese artifacts in the world. Once located in Beijing’s Forbidden City, the museum’s collection moved to Taiwan in the 1940s. Now spread across four floors and a rotating series of exhibitions, many of the most important relics of ancient China are on show for the world to admire. This experience is enhanced by an industry expert, offering deep knowledge and unique insights that bring these ancient treasures to life. Breathe in millennia of history and culture while wandering through the museum’s collection of well-kept treasures.

Beitou Villa 32 Hot Spring Experience

Developed around its own hot springs, with water from two different mountains, Villa 32 offers a more privatized Beitou hot spring experience. Overlook the mystifying Thermal Valley in the resting lounge before choosing between a selection of revitalizing hot spring infusions. Sit back and soak in the blissful treatment while enjoying the excellent on-site service and handmade delights on offer.

Meals included: breakfast

Depart: Taipei

Your WildTaiwan guide and private chauffeur will escort you to the Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (~1.5-hours traffic dependent) and help you check in for your flight home.

Meals included: breakfast