Taiwan - 7 Shots of Taipei, Taiwan

I'm far from being an OK photographer but still, I like to take photographs and share it with my friends. So, I thought of this 7 shots series where I'll post 7 photos that I think represent the place. I did it for Pulau Ketam and Klang during the #TSBreakAway adventures and I begin the series with 7 pictures of Taipei, a city I recently visited and came to love.

Chinese deity costume

I took this photo inside a Chinese temple somewhere in Wanhua district. I'm a poor dictionary on all things Chinese hence, I can't say for sure whether this is a deity or something along the line. I just find it very creepy, an unexpected adjective in a temple.

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

Security guard change process

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is a popular tourist spot in Taipei, mostly for the 10 plus minutes security guard change. The process was precise and detailed, something quite interesting for those who has yet to see anything like this.

Either National Theatre Hall or National Concert Hall

Honestly, I can't be sure which one is this for both the National Theatre Hall and National Concert Hall boost the same architecture style and located on the same ground as Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall (one on the left and the other right). These two buildings are especially stunning during night time when all lit up.

Shilin Night Market

A stall in Huaxi Night Market

Night markets are regular past time activities in Taiwan come night time. I had visited 4 of them in my short time in the city and I have to say, not every one of them are the same. Shilin Night Market is hip and happening but cater more towards tourists while Huaxi Night Market has a local vibe to it.

Longshan Temple

One of the oldest temples in Taipei, Longshan Temple constantly has a large crowd of people paying respects to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy the temple dedicated to. While the original architecture was damaged long ago, it still reeks of tradition and heritage.

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Taiwan - Overview

My mind is still muddling in Mandarin even after coming back from Taipei, Taiwan, for 2 days. I missed the mostly cooling weather the moment I landed in Malaysia (and missed the Malaysia's humid hot weather when it was raining and blowing with strong wind in Taipei).

Exploring their night markets is a must in Taiwan

My 6 days in Taipei has been nothing but fun and enjoyable. I made the right choice going during the winter season. Most of the days, it was chilly, just cold enough that a coat would do. Exploring the city in such a temperature makes walking the best method as you won't sweat.

View of Taipei from Taipei 101, the fourth tallest building in the world

What I'm most impressed about Taiwan is its friendly locals. They are very helpful and friendly and willing to share their cultures and histories to those who are willing to listen. I was given an impromptu history class on Monga district (now known as Wanhua district) which was very enlightening.

National Theatre Hall which looks like something from Korea

Another impressive feat is their transportation system. You have to salute them for the efficient railway system, punctual and comfortable even for a long journey ride. Plus, it is a cheap alternative to bus, which I find slightly more pricier especially if you want to go out of the city centre.

The old street of Jinguashi, my favourite place to just walk around and relax

It was definitely a wonderful experience and while I got to reconnect with my Taiwanese friend, I also gained a few new ones too. I believe that is the beauty of travelling. More stories will come out soon, I hope. In the mean times, just enjoy some of the photos.

Bamboo wishing sticks

Sky lanterns are so much beautiful to look at

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Sharing is caring. A word of advice and a piece of information.

Mandarin is the lingua franca of Taiwan. However, English is still widely understandable in city centre. It is advisable to get yourself an EasyCard to travel around as it speeds things up a lot. Each adult EasyCard costs TWD 500 (which is about RM 56.50) with TWD 400 reload and TWD 100 as deposits, refundable.