After Class Activities
Our program allows you plenty of time to discover Taipei, the culture, traditions and everyday life after your class!
Try Chinese painting, calligraphy, lectures, cooking, tea making, porcelain making, paper cutting, Chinese films, parties, sports events, excursions to historical site, night markets, cultural performances, speech and debate competitions and much more all in Taipei!
Main Sights: Get to Know Taipei
Chiang-Kai-Sheck Memorial Hall:
This memorial Hall is dedicated to Chiang-Kai-Sheck, a former President of the Republic of China in Taiwan. The building itself is stunning, with special attention paid to honour and respect the former president as best as possible.
The first laying of the foundation stone was done on the president’s 90th anniversary of birth and the official opening took place at the fifth anniversary of Chiang's death. Furthermore the steps to reach the main entrance equal the same number as his age when he died and the colour surrounding are kept as in the national flag.
The hall also has a massive statue of Chiang-Kai-Sheck and museum which documents his life achievements in Taiwan. Overall it's a great place to visit in downtown Taipei to really sense the Taiwanese national pride. You can also visit the National Theatre and National Concert Hall which are located nearby!
Taipei City Zoo:
The history of Taipei’s zoo reaches back to 1914. During this time the Japanese were in regime and the zoological garden was privately owned. A year later the Japanese government bought the zoo and opened it to public. In 1986 the zoo was moved to Mu Zha, a mountainous area to grant the animal more space and better air. It covers all together 165 hectares and is the largest zoo in Asia.
You can find all sorts of animals here, from nocturnal animals over marine life, insects, reptiles you name it. But probably the most popular animals to find here are the Pandas, which were a present from the Peoples Republic of China. Since their arrival the visitor numbers increased so enormously, the zoo was forced to set limits for visitors per day.
Yangmingshan National Park:
The Yangmingshan National Park is located north of Taipei and one out of eight National Parks in Taiwan. It is a place many Taipei people go to relax from the city life and enjoy the fresh air. It's well loved for its cherry blossom in spring, hot springs, hiking trails and of course the simply beautiful landscape.
In Yangmingshan National Park you can also find Taiwan’s tallest mountain called Seven Star Mountain which also is an in-active volcano!
Something very popular for youth here is to explore the National Park at night and visiting the observation platform where you can get a stunning panorama view of Taipei!
Taipei’s Markets:
There is no doubt at all, the Taiwanese like to shop! Big shopping malls and shopping districts which you can find in most major cities you can find in Taipei of course too. But this city has also something more unique to offer, which are Night Markets.
In Taipei you can find up to 6 Night markets in different districts of the city. The stands open around 4 pm and close around midnight. The oldest and most popular one is Shilin market. It has a carnival-like flare with stands for games, clothing and shoes, souvenirs and many other accessories you can think of. All is available at very good prices, especially great food at the eating stalls.
If you'd like to try a real delicacy, you should visit the Snake Alley Night Market. Its name says it already, here you can try rare foods such as snake and turtle meat! Another Night Market where most of young people like to hang out is named Shida. It's located near National Taiwan Normal University and attracts many students and is THE place to enjoy a night out.
Excursions: Explore More of The Region
Wulai Aboriginal Village:
As the largest town in Taipei County, Wulai is a reservation territory for the aboriginal people. The meaning of the local word “Wulai” is hot springs. This area is very popular for its many hot springs, but also waterfalls and great nature as well.
You can enjoy the village by foot, or take the Wulai scenic train to the base of Wulai waterfall which stands over 80 metres tall! Then complete the day with a trip to the top of the mountain by taking the gondola! The Village itself holds a museum which also features dances and songs of the aboriginal Tai Ya tribe.
Not to mention, all along the streets you'll find small shops selling local arts and handcrafts as well as aboriginal clothing and locally farmed fruits and vegetables.
Hot Springs of Peitou:
The famous Hot Springs of Peitou are located in Taipei’s highest and most mountainous region. Its history goes back to the time when Japan ruled Taiwan. As the Japanese had a passion for hot springs, they established the first spa here. “Peitou” translated means “Witch”.
The name descends of an old legend from the aborigines, which says a witch lived in the foothills of the volcano. This volcano is Yangmingshan Mountain which is linked to the hot springs of Peitou, but has never erupted in the last 1,000 years.
Beaches:
Enjoy a day out in the sun and take a trip to one of Taiwan’s beautiful beaches! Fulong Beach, located northeast of Taipei City, stretches over 3 km with golden sand close to the river Shuangxi. This is one of Taiwan’s best beaches, where you can find all kinds of water sports, restaurants and shops.
A quieter beach on Taiwan’s north shore is Baishawan Beach. You'll find a number of hiking trails along marvellous scenery of white beaches, crystal clear blue water and volcanic rocks. In the southern region of Taiwan, the most famous beach is Kenting. Many locals like to come here, as it has great activities to offer for the whole family!
Religious Sites: Step Onto Sacred Ground
Confucius Temple:
This temple was built in 1879 and modelled after the first Confucius Temple in mainland China. It is the only temple in Taiwan, which is decorated with the Fujian-style ceramic. To honour the great educator and scholar Confucius, each year on September 28th a ceremony takes place here.
Bao-an Temple:
Close to the Confucius Temple you can also find the Bao-an Temple. In dedication to the god of medicine, it was established in 1830 and years later his statue was imported by the Fujien immigrants. Since the early 19th century, the Bao-an Temple has been restored and won the UNESCO Heritage Award in 2003 for Asia-Pacific.
Hsing Tien Temple:
A very popular temple is the Hsing Tien Temple. Besides other gods it worships the god of war. Since its construction in 1967 until today, many people come here to pray for support and guidance.
Martyrs Shrine:
Built in 1969 on Qing Mountain, is the Martyrs Shrine. This site was constructed to honour all the brave martyrs who fought during Taiwan’s wars and lost their lives. This great architectural monument is enclosed by 33,000 square metres of grassland near Taipei's Chungshan District.
