Independent, Shilin hotels

Known as one of Taipei’s more traditional areas, Shilin is located to the north of the downtown centre. Many expatriates make their homes here, as do a large number of university students as there are three universities in the district. It has a list of remarkable museums, not to mention several other famous landmarks to keep tourists entertained for several days. There are also a number of temples which can be visited. Shopping here is something tourists won’t forget, thanks to the large night market. Visitors can easily reach the district via the Metro Taipei.

The National Palace Museum is one of the top sights in Taipei and Taiwan. It is not only home to an unrivalled array of artwork and relics, but it has a fantastic history too. The museum is famous for its collection of Chinese art, including pieces like the jade cabbage and pork belly jade. It is open everyday between 08:30 and 18:30, except on Friday and Saturday, when it closes later, at 20:30.

Kids will adore the modern, hands-on Taipei Astronomical Museum. It has many interactive exhibits that uncover the universe. In addition, there is an observatory, IMAX dome theatre and a 3D movie theatre. It is free to enter, although the movie theatres do require a fee. There are also a number of nice parks in the area, including Shilin Residence, made up of the extensive grounds, laid out like a European garden, of a former home of Chiang Kai-shek. The park is open from 08:30 to 17:00 daily.

Plenty of traditional cuisine can be found at the night market. Everything from tofu to oyster omelets and fried chicken is available. Outside of the night market, restaurants line the streets of Shilin, offering a variety of cuisines, such as Cantonese, European, and Asian-Western fusion dishes. High tea at the historic Grand Hotel is another experience that should not be missed. The nightlife in Shilin is relatively limited. Most visitors head to a café or hotel bar after dark, and the atmosphere is these is generally quite subdued.

Sprawling across several blocks in Shilin, the local night market is an amazing shopping experience. An enormous range of merchandise and food can be purchased here, at very cheap prices. In addition to the night market, shopping can be done at several modern malls, including the 12-storey Dayeh Takashimaya and upscale EsliteTianmu.