The National Palace Museum stands iconically amid tropical mountains overlooking a district of museums, parks and a vast night market.
Shilin is a serene and affluent district that has become popular with international expatriates living in Taipei. It has an entertaining family ambiance, with amusement parks and museums, as well as a popular night market. Walk around this large area and notice the majestic architecture from the early 1900s.
Among the highlights of the entire island is the iconic National Palace Museum, which was moved here from the Beijing Forbidden City in 1949. Admire the wonderful architecture of the palace, framed by a scenic backdrop of lush vegetation. Head inside to study some of the preeminent artefacts from China and Taiwan. The exhibits rotate across four floors.
The district also has fun and entertaining activities for families, including the Taipei Children’s Art Museum and the Taipei Children’s Amusement Park. Bring your little ones for a ride on the Ocean Carousel or the colourful Monorail overlooking the park. Brave yourself for the fall from the Drop Tower and try out the Bumper Cars. Next door is the National Taiwan Science Education Centre, a complex that teaches visitors about the body and the elements.
Wander through the former TV studios of the Chinese Culture Movie Centre for a look behind the screen. Other fascinating institutions include the domed Taipei Astronomical Museum and the glassy Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines.
To get a glimpse of local culture, venture through the Shilin Night Market. Signs and neon lights create an exciting and dizzying spectacle, while fried buns and stinky tofu satisfy hungry appetites.
Shilin is located a little east of the Keelung and Tamsui rivers, in the northern outskirts of Taipei. Travel to the district on a bus or the metro to the Shilin Station, a little north of the Shilin Night Market. While in this region, make sure to visit neighboring zones such as the Beitou District, the Zhongshan District and the Luzhou District.
