Originally a small town, Taipei became an important center for the trading of tea in the beginning of the 19th century. The Japanese acquired the island in 1885, the city started expanding rapidly, and became the seat of Chiang-Kat Shek's government in 1949.

The city has a wealth of architecture from throughout its history, from the 17th-century Kuantu Temple to the modern Taipei 101.

Originally built in 1740, Lungshan Temple is one of the most popular temples in Taiwan's capital. Chingshui Temple has some of the best architecture and decorations from the Ching dynasty. Another temple, The Chihnan Temple is reputed to have 1200 steps.
There are many other temples in Taipei that are also worth visiting.

The most popular tourist attraction in Taipei is the National Palace Museum, rich in Chinese and Japanese works of art, and  definitely a must-visit. The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall has been recently renamed the National Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall and is a monument dedicated to the former leader. The surrounding gardens are a favorite place for locals to practice their Tai chi in the early morning.

The smaller Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall is set in a large park and houses a library. Concerts and exhibition halls are often held here. The architecture of the memorial is magnificent.

Taipei is also renowned for its wide range of food from all over the Far East and its shopping. Tihua Street - the best preserved old street in Taipei is where, many of the tourists head for fabrics, traditional medicines and dry goods.
There also are dozens of local shopping areas both in the center and in East Taipei.

The beautiful capital city, Taipei is a perfect mixture of both modern and traditional, local and global.