Things to do in Taipei

Enjoy the calm of the water in a kayak

Escape the hubbub of the city and head south of Taipei to Bintan. Fed by the Xindian River, this is a popular scenic spot, whose pedestrian bridge commands great views of the river below and mountains behind. For a change of perspective, visitors can hire kayaks and paddle the waters below.

Hike over an elephant

Outdoor enthusiasts looking to lace up their hiking boots are well served in Taipei. Flanking the city are four beasts: Elephant, Tiger, Lion and Leopard - mountains that offer a fantastic challenge for walkers. Tackle Elephant, whose mix of concrete trail and steeper rope-assisted steps peak with unmissable cityscape views.

Make for the breaks at Jinshan

The breaks may not give Hawaii a run for its money but that hasn't stopped surfing from gaining popularity in Taiwan. Locals head to Jinshan, less than an hour's drive north east of the city. Waves here are consistent and rentals available: ideal for beginners just wanting to find their feet.

Relax in Taiwan's Hell Valley

Thanks to Taiwan's tectonic location, the country boasts some excellent hot springs that, under Japanese rule, were developed into onsen-style spas. Beitou Hot Spring (tel: +886 2 2874 7979; www.taipeinavi.com) is one of the most popular in Taipei; unwind in the warm volcanic waters before exploring the nearby Hell Valley, up from which bellows sulphuric steam.

Ride the Maokong Gondola

If you suffer from a fear of heights, the Maokong Gondola (tel: +886 2 218 12345; http://english.gondola.taipei) may not be for you. Taipei's cable car runs from Maokong to the Taipei zoo and offers great views of the city. It is during January's apricot blossom season that the lift system really blooms - especially from a glass bottom car.

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

City Highlight: Taipei

You'll find different sides to Taiwan's capital: crowded, chaotic, but also laid-back and welcoming.

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Featured Hotels

The United Hotel

Although somewhat in need of an upgrade, this hotel in the commercial centre is a solid mid-range choice. Perks include an airport limo service and business and fitness centres, and there's a downstairs cafe and a Cantonese restaurant.

Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza

Imposing, but calm, and consistently voted as one of the best hotels in Taipei, the Shangri-La has all you need for a great stay, including a heated rooftop pool, a sauna and a spa. Restaurant choices include Japanese, Cantonese and Italian, and a cocktail bar with dazzling skyline views.

San Want Residence

This hotel does 'boutique luxury' to perfection, with an emphasis on good service. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and park or city views, and there's also a Western and Asian restaurant where the free breakfast is served. The collection of contemporary Taiwanese sculpture is a reason enough to pop in without staying. Children over 12 only.

First Hotel

This mid-sized business hotel in the eastern business district has a distinctly Chinese ambience. It has 176 clean and comfortable rooms equipped with cable television and internet access. Shanghainese cuisine is served at Ning Yuan restaurant on the third floor. The hotel also has a business centre and fitness room.

The Grand Hotel

Brighton's most famous hotel, and one of the only 5-star establishments in the city, the The Grand’s elegant Victorian building enjoys a central seafront position. This extensive hotel has more than 200 lavishly appointed rooms, and offers a stylish and luxurious base from which to explore the city. Its afternoon teas are world famous too.

Yomi Hotel

Set in the lively Shuanglian neighbourhood (and four minutes' walk from the MRT station), this budget hotel offers a raft of freebies: bicycle use, Wi-Fi device, bottled water and snacks, plus breakfast and use of a washer/dryer. Rooms are simple and minimalist but have flat-screen TVs, and there's a 24-hour convenience store next door.

Introducing Taipei

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