The capital city of Taiwan and a global city, Taipei is a mecca for
international travelers, receiving almost as many visitors a year as
Rome. With a complex history and rich cultural heritage, museums and
landmarks abound, offering a kaleidoscopic view of past and present,
from the islands original inhabitants, through the legacy of ancient
China and into the modern era. One of the most popular destinations is
Taipei 101, one of the tallest buildings in the world, which was also
recently voted one of the greenest. Another is sure to be the brand new
and space-age Taipei Performing Arts Center by OMA, which is nearing
completion and is located near the largest night market in the city.
Other highlights include beautiful parks and green spaces, numerous
temples and shrines and festivals such as the unforgettable Pinxi Sky
Lantern Festival, where thousands of papers balloons are released into
the night air.