Traveling always involves spending money. And if you’re on a tight budget, things can get quite tricky. But fret not as some of the best attractions in the capital city of Taiwan wouldn’t cost you a single cent! Read up as we list down some of the best free things you can enjoy in Taipei:
Visit the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall
The Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall was built by the government to commemorate the former president of the Republic of China. Its main hall is octagonal in design, as the Chinese believe that eight is a lucky number. An impressive statue of the late president stands in the memorial and there is also a museum dedicated to the late president’s life and career.
The complex has a huge park built for large events and gatherings. On most days, you’ll see people practicing tai chi and other exercises together. Some people just take a leisurely stroll around, while others like to take pictures because of its beautiful gardens.
Walk the Elephant Mountain’s Trail
Elephant Mountain offers a breath of fresh air in the city. A unique feature of this mountain is how it treats you to two different views. The views you will see in the morning and at night offer unique perspectives that make for postcard-perfect pictures. The Elephant Mountain has Six Giant Boulders that visitors may climb for the best views of the city. Tourists get an amazing view of Taipei 101, which was once the tallest building in the world.
Just a tip, take a hike at 4:00 PM to avoid the midday’s harsh heat. It also allows you to see both the daytime view and sunset view of Taipei. The trail’s summit can be reached in about 30 minutes, but do bring some water and a towel for when you take a break.
Watch the Changing Guards of Martyrs’ Shrine
The National Revolutionary Martyr’s Shrine is on the ChingShan mountain and was built in 1969. This memorial holds the spirit tablets of approximately 390,000 brave souls who lost their lives during the many battles Taiwan fought such as the Chinese Civil War and the Sino Japanese War.
The Main Sanctuary’s Arcade has beautiful paintings telling tales of glorious battles fought. Its highlight is the changing of the guards every hour. You’ll see resolute soldiers dressed in military uniforms change to a new squad with their rifles in synchronicity.
Snap a Selfie with Taipei 101 in the Background
Taipei 101 used to be the tallest building in the world for at least six years from 2004 to 2010. It is now the second tallest building in the world ever since the construction of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa.
The building stands at 509 meters, promising to take its visitors to new heights. However, tickets to the observatory may set you back to a few hundred dollars. But that doesn’t mean you can’t take the obligatory Taipei 101 photo with the towering building in the background. Walk the areas surrounding the building for the perfect shot, or window-shop at the mall in the base of the building.
Ready for your adventure in Taipei? Make sure you book your tours and essentials on KKday now!
*Featured image from Shutterstock
