City Guide: Taipei, Taiwan

A modern metropolis, crowned by the bamboo-shaped, 509m-tall skyscraper, Taipei is a tough little city. Here's our curated guide to where to eat, drink, shop and play.

09 March, 2018

Words by
Kathy Cheng

This article appears in Vol 22: The Design Issue

A modern metropolis, crowned by the bamboo-shaped, 509m-tall, Taipei 101 skyscraper, Taipei is a tough little city. Nestled in a river valley, Taipei's beauty lies in its fusion of Chinese culture with Japanese, Southeast Asian and American influences. The cultural and political center of Taiwan, its bustling shopping districts, contemporary architecture and a startlingly efficient public transportation system, nod to the city's modernity.

Come nightfall, shop and haggle at any number of the city's street markets where vendors peddle clothing, electronics and various snacks.

hotel

CitizenM Taipei North Gate

Taipei, Taiwan

This inaugural opening in Asia for global hotel brand citizenM overlooks the Tamsui River and is a short distance from the shopping district of Ximending. Alongside signature citizenM touchstones such as the open-plan “Living Room” lobby space and self check-in kiosk, a host of local Taiwanese design talent have brought their influence to bear on the property – check out emerging graffiti artist ANO’s outdoor mural and works by famed photographer Chou Ching Hui.

Address

No. 3 Section 1 Zhonghua Road Zhongzheng District Taipei

+886 710 161 061 Go to website

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hotel

Play Design Hotel

Taipei, Taiwan

Sometimes you book a hotel simply as a place to crash for the night, but occasionally a room is so thoughtful and personal that you end up wanting to stay. Play Design Hotel is this sort of place. Why? Because you curate your room’s furnishings and accessories on their website before check-in.There’s a broad selection of products from local designers that you can drag and drop into the floorplan, making your room a living gallery of contemporary Taiwanese design. The hotel’s concept has proved popular among travelling creatives, and its rooms are some of the most in-demand in the city.

Address

5F No.156-2 Taiyuan Road Datong District Taipei City 103

+886 225 555 930 Go to website

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