Guided in Japanese: City Drive, Lungshan Temple & Handicraft Center

5 hours | Taipei (Keelung) | K E 1 - 2 0 9
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$ 54
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Points of Interest

  • Taipei 101
  • Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
  • Lungshan Temple
Shopping Opportunities, Moderate activity

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Feel the pulse of Taipei during this breathtaking journey that includes a narrated tour through town and stops at some of the city's most celebrated landmarks. The adventure begins with an hour-long drive through Taiwan's verdant countryside, as sweeping green hills fill every frame. Along the way, watch in the distance for the splendid Grand Hotel, which is nestled on a hillside overlooking the city. This imperial establishment was built in 1952 with classic Chinese architecture in mind. World-famous leaders, including Ronald Reagan and Dwight D. Eisenhower have stayed there.

Arrive in the heart of Taipei, the capital of the Republic of China, where cars, busses and taxis zip along the bustling streets and throngs of people crowd the sidewalks. Take in the sky-high apartment buildings and thriving shops at every turn. Listen as the tour guide points out amazing sights throughout the city and along Jen-Ai Road, where sophisticated bars and eateries lure sophisticated city dwellers. Notice the expansive Presidential Building, an ornate red brick structure constructed in 1919 as the headquarters for occupying Japanese forces, but since 1950 it has been the Office of the President.

Eventually, arrive at Lungshan Temple, a serene Ching dynasty landmark featuring elaborately carved wooden doors, stone and bronze beams, dragon-like poles and unique cavorting figures on the rooftops. First dedicated to honoring Kuanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, the "dragon mountain" temple is over 250 years old, making it Taipei's most historic house of worship. This popular temple was returned to its original glory in the 1990's when it was painstakingly refurbished.

Next, head to Liberty Park, a lush, two million square foot sprawl of grass and trees, to explore Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a regal monument honoring the former president of Taiwan. With its glossy blue-tile roof, gold apex and serene white marble, the memorial evokes peace, solemnity and warmth. Head inside to view vintage photos, historic documents and artifacts pertaining to the late leader's life. Nearby, catch sight of the National Theater and Concert Hall, the country's leading performing arts center.

Continue on to reach Taipei Handicraft Center, a lively marketplace featuring more than 40,000 handcrafted items including furniture, art, jewelry, gifts and ceramics. Relish time to shop for mementos in this distinctive mart, which was established in 1957 to promote Taiwan's handicraft industry.

Next, ready your camera for the magnificent, Taipei 101, the second tallest skyscraper in the world. Completed in 2004, this modern structure features 101 floors above ground, five below and a luxurious shopping center off to one side. Notice how the building's design, a unique blend of modern and traditional elements, brings to mind an Asian pagoda, a bamboo stalk and a stack of ancient Chinese money boxes. Each a meaningful symbol in China's rich culture. Photographs taken, kick back and relax, during a picturesque ride back to Keelung to rejoin your ship.

Special Notes:

Most stores accept only local currency and major credit cards.

The drive between the pier and Taipei is approximately one hour each way, dependant upon traffic.

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.

Depart from ship for a visit to Lungshan Temple

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Transport Capacity:
36
Travel time:
01:00
Time at site:
00:40
Free time at site:
40
Inside visit:
Yes
Air conditioned:
No
Walking distance:
100
Steps:
6
Wheelchair accessible:
No
Restroom available:
Yes
Shopping available:
No
Photo/video restrictions:
No
Photo/video opportunity:
Yes

Inside visit to Chiang Kai Shek's Memorial Hall

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Transport Capacity:
36
Travel time:
00:10
Time at site:
00:40
Free time at site:
40
Inside visit:
Yes
Air conditioned:
Yes
Walking distance:
500
Steps:
89
Wheelchair accessible:
Yes
Restroom available:
Yes
Shopping available:
Yes
Photo/video restrictions:
No
Photo/video opportunity:
Yes

Free time for shopping at the Handicraft Center

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Transport Capacity:
36
Travel time:
00:05
Time at site:
00:45
Free time at site:
45
Inside visit:
Yes
Walking distance:
50
Steps:
3
Wheelchair accessible:
No
Restroom available:
Yes
Shopping available:
Yes

Photo stop for Taipei 101

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Transport Capacity:
36
Travel time:
00:20
Time at site:
00:20
Free time at site:
10
Inside visit:
No
Wheelchair accessible:
Yes
Restroom available:
Yes
Photo/video restrictions:
No
Photo/video opportunity:
Yes

Reboard your motorcoach and return to your ship

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Transport Capacity:
36
Travel time:
01:00