Taipei City’s melting pot of culture is best soaked up in the Shulin District. Its central location means you can enjoy the neighbourhood like a local and access downtown to explore Taipei’s modern skyscrapers, Japanese colonial buildings and ancient Taoist temples.
Things to do in Shulin District
Built more than 300 years ago, the Lungshan Temple of Manka dates back to the Qing Dynasty. You can find it in the Wanhua District, just a 40-minute metro ride from Shulin. Nearby is the historic Qidong Street, which is lined with beautifully preserved Japanese colonial houses.
For panoramic views of the city, head to the bamboo-shaped Taipei 101 skyscraper. It towers 509 metres above Taipei and is topped by a dizzyingly high observation deck. The ground level is a shopping mecca for fashionistas and houses some of Taipei’s best boutiques.
If the city feels a little busy, escape to Yangmingshan National Park. Just a 45-minute drive from the Shulin District, the mountainous area is dotted with forested hiking trails and bubbling hot springs.
For adventurous eaters, the Shulin District is a fantastic place to sample local specialties. Don’t miss delicacies like stinky tofu and pineapple sponge cake. You can also head downtown and eat your way through the bustling Shilin Night Market or make reservations at one of Taipei’s famous themed restaurants.
Getting Around
Taipei is serviced by an efficient MRT network that runs throughout the city. From the Shulin District, the ride to downtown Taipei takes around 30 minutes. Buses are a budget-friendly way to get around, though taxis are much faster. If you’re heading to Taoyuan International Airport, allow at least 45 minutes.