Highlights Of Taipei

Surrounded by mountains and crisscrossed by rivers, Taipei is the center of Taiwan's (Republic of China) government, economy and culture. On this half-day tour, discover Taipei, a modern and cosmopolitan city infused with ancient culture and traditions. You will begin with a one-hour drive from the busy port of Keelung to dynamic Taipei.

Visit the prestigious National Palace Museum, boasting one of the world's most important art collections, originally housed in Beijing's Forbidden City. This extraordinary collection began during the 10th century, when Chinese Emperors seized art treasures for their own pleasure. Moved in crates from city to city to escape invading armies in the 20th century, the collection finally ended its journey in Taiwan. Today, the museum holds over 650,000 items, including jade, bronze, porcelain and lacquer pieces, as well as tapestry and embroidery, many dating back over 4,000 years.

Your scenic city drive takes you on to the heart of Taiwan with a visit to the remarkable National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. A Taiwanese national monument, landmark and tourist attraction erected in memory of Chiang Kai-shek, former President of the Republic of China. The roofs are decorated with deep-blue glass as part of the reflection of blue sky and bright sun and the garden is planted with red flowers. As a whole, the colors of blue, white and red express the National Flag and the spirit of freedom, equality and brotherhood.