Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Taipei 101

Why Visit?

Start your adventure at Taipei 101, the iconic skyscraper that once held the title of the world"s tallest building. To reach Taipei 101, take the Taipei Metro to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station on the Red Line. The towering structure is easily visible from the exit, drawing your eyes up to its 508-meter height.

Begin your visit early in the day to avoid crowds. Purchase tickets on the fifth floor to ascend to the observatory. As you ride one of the world’s fastest elevators, reaching speeds of 60.6 km/h, you"ll arrive at the observation deck in just 37 seconds! Here, feast your eyes on breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei. The observatory also houses a massive damper sphere, which stabilizes the building against strong winds—a fascinating feature for both kids and adults.

After enjoying the views, head down to the 89th-floor indoor observatory where you can learn about the construction of Taipei 101 through multimedia exhibits—perfect for curious minds. Kids will be thrilled by the "damper babies," cute mascot versions of the damper sphere. Don"t forget to pick up a souvenir from the gift shop!

Next, explore the Taipei 101 Mall, located at the base of the tower. This upscale mall offers a variety of shopping and dining options. Treat the family to a meal at Din Tai Fung, renowned for its delicious xiao long bao (soup dumplings).

Wrap up your visit by strolling through the adjoining Xinyi District, a bustling area full of shops, eateries, and a lively atmosphere. This neighboring area provides a perfect blend of modern city vibes and traditional Taiwanese culture, making your family’s visit to Taipei 101 unforgettable.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bao"an Temple

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Bao"an Temple

Morning Arrival

Start your day at Bao"an Temple, a well-preserved religious site known for its magnificent architecture and bustling cultural atmosphere. Located in the Datong District of Taipei, it"s easily accessible by MRT. Get off at Yuanshan Station and take a short walk to the temple.

Exploring Bao"an Temple (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM)

Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the temple’s stunning details. Built during the Qing dynasty, Bao"an Temple has won awards for its meticulous restoration. The temple complex is rich in traditional folk art, intricate carvings, and colorful decorations that embody centuries of Taiwanese culture.

Participate in a Traditional Ritual (10:30 AM - 11:00 AM)

Engage with local customs by observing or participating in a traditional prayer ritual. It’s a wonderful way for the family to experience local religious practices first-hand. The temple is dedicated to Baosheng Dadi, a god of medicine, making it a center of healing and spirituality.

Visit the Herbal Medicine Garden (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Don"t miss the medicinal herb garden within the temple grounds. It"s a great educational spot for kids to learn about traditional Chinese medicine and the importance of plants in Taiwanese culture.

Lunch and Adjacent Attractions (12:00 PM onwards)

For lunch, explore the surrounding area, which is dotted with eateries offering local Taiwanese cuisine. Post-lunch, consider a leisurely walk to the nearby Taipei Confucius Temple, just a few minutes away, where educational and cultural insights continue.

Wrap Up

End your day by grabbing a traditional Taiwanese tea as you reflect on the rich cultural tapestry you’ve explored. Bao’an Temple not only offers a deep dive into Taiwan"s religious practices but also a vibrant snapshot of its community spirit and artistic heritage.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Ningxia Night Market

Why Visit?

Welcome to Ningxia Night Market, a vibrant hub of Taiwanese street food and bustling activity perfect for a family adventure in Taipei! Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.

### Arrival and Getting There

Ningxia Night Market is situated in the Datong District, easily accessible by Taipei MRT. The closest MRT stations are Shuanglian or Zhongshan, both on the Red Line. From either station, it"s a mere 10-minute walk to the market. Alternatively, numerous buses stop nearby, making public transport a convenient option.

### Explore and Eat

Start your evening around 5 PM when the stalls begin to open. Ningxia Night Market is renowned for its array of traditional Taiwanese foods. Some must-try dishes include:

- Oyster Omelette: A savory treat made with eggs, oysters, and greens, topped with a tangy sauce.

- Braised Pork Rice: Succulent pork belly served over rice, a staple Taiwanese comfort food.

- Mochi: Chewy and sweet, perfect for the kids.

While you munch, take in the sights and sounds of this lively market. The market is smaller and more manageable than some others in Taipei, making it easier for families to navigate.

### Attractions for Kids

Head to the game stalls where kids can play simple games like balloon darts or ring toss to win prizes. It"s a great way for them to engage with the local culture.

### Shopping and Souvenirs

Beyond food, the market offers various stalls selling toys, accessories, and trinkets. These make for perfect souvenirs to remember your trip by.

### Wind Down

As the night progresses, consider a leisurely stroll back towards the MRT station, enjoying the city’s evening ambiance. You might stop by a local tea shop to experience Taiwan"s famous bubble tea—a sweet finish to a delightful exploration.

This compact, family-friendly market not only offers a taste of Taiwanese culinary delights but also provides a vibrant slice of Taipei life that will captivate visitors of all ages.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Raohe Street Night Market

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful evening adventure at the Raohe Street Night Market in Taipei, perfect for families eager to experience Taiwanese culture and cuisine!

Getting There: Start your journey at the Taipei Main Station, take the Green Line MRT towards Songshan. Disembark at the Songshan Station, use Exit 5, and you"ll see the iconic Ciyou Temple, a six-story temple dating back to 1753, right next to the entrance of the market. It"s not just a guidepost but a cultural spectacle, adorned with intricate carvings and dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. A quick tour here introduces the family to Taiwan"s rich religious traditions.

Begin Your Market Adventure

As you step into Raohe Street Night Market, one of the oldest in Taipei, the vibrant stalls stretch for 600 meters, offering a feast for the senses. Start with a bite of the famous pepper buns (hu jiao bing), baked fresh in cylindrical ovens. These buns are crispy outside with succulent pork and scallion filling inside, a must-try that draws locals and tourists alike.

Explore More Delicacies and Games

Wander through the stalls, tasting everything from stinky tofu to sweet, icy desserts like shaved ice or mango pudding. The market is also a great spot for kids to enjoy some traditional games like shooting balloons or tossing rings.

Shop for Souvenirs

Between snacks, explore the array of shops selling everything from toys to traditional Taiwanese crafts. It"s a perfect place to pick up souvenirs like hand-painted fans or cute panda-themed items.

Wind Down at Rainbow Bridge

Conclude your night with a relaxing walk to the nearby Rainbow Bridge, a beautiful pedestrian bridge over the Keelung River. It"s a serene spot to digest the evening"s excitement and enjoy the city lights reflecting on the water.

This vibrant night spent at Raohe Street Night Market will surely leave your family with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for Taiwanese local life!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Da"an Forest Park

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Da"an Forest Park

Morning Arrival

Start your day at Da"an Forest Park by taking the MRT to Da"an Park Station, which conveniently exits right into the park. Known as the "lungs of Taipei," this park offers a refreshing escape with its lush greenery and expansive spaces.

Explore the EcoPond

Once you’re in the park, head to the EcoPond, a short walk from the main entrance. It"s a fantastic spot for the kids to learn about aquatic plants and wildlife. They might spot turtles, ducks, and even koi fish! The pond is encircalled by beautifully landscaped paths perfect for a leisurely family stroll.

Visit the Playground

Mid-morning, make your way to the children’s playground, which is one of Taipei’s largest. The playground is equipped with various modern and safe equipment, allowing children of all ages to burn off some energy. Nearby, there are several picnic spots where you can enjoy a snack or a packed lunch while the kids play.

Afternoon Leisure

After lunch, explore the park’s walking trails. The main loop is easy and flat, ideal for families. As you walk, enjoy the lush canopy of trees providing shade and watch for squirrels and birds that make the park their home.

Cultural Stop at the Amphitheater

In the afternoon, check if there"s a performance at the outdoor amphitheater. The park often hosts free cultural events ranging from concerts to dance performances, which can be a delightful way to experience local culture.

Evening Wind Down

Conclude your visit with a relaxing dinner at one of the restaurants just outside the park"s perimeter, offering a variety of cuisines that cater to all tastes. After dinner, the MRT offers a convenient ride back to your hotel or next destination.

Interesting Fact

Da"an Forest Park, opened in 1994, spans over 26 hectares and was designed in the style of New York’s Central Park, providing a green refuge in the heart of a bustling city.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.