Guided in Japanese: National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai Shek & Temples

Description

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

Soak up China's incredible history on this breathtaking full-day tour to visit a wealth of Taipei's most extraordinary sights. The journey commences with a relaxing drive from Keelung City, Taiwan's second largest port, to the slopes of the Qing Mountain to visit the Martyr's Shrine, a stately monument constructed in 1969 to honor the 330,000 brave men who sacrificed their lives during key battles throughout Chinese history. Reminiscent in style to Beijing's Taihe Dian Imperial Palace, this stunning shrine is surrounded by over 350,000 square feet of grass and features a bright red main gate guarded by stoic white-uniformed officers trained to remain emotionless.

Back on the road, head through the bustling city of Taipei, taxis, busses and motorcycles zipping along the busy streets, to reach Pao-An Temple, a magnificent place of worship dedicated to Pashen Tati, the God of Medicine. Built in 1830 and restored to its original glory from 1995 to 2002 after years of neglect as a bamboo factory and Japanese language school, this splendid temple impresses with ornate dragon pillars, stone lions and valuable tablets inscribed by eminent Chinese scholars.

Continue on to the magnificent Confucius Temple, the most representative of about 30 Confucian temples in Taiwan. Thanks to its superb architecture, this majestic Ming dynasty temple has been classified a Level Three National Cultural Relic. In addition to its many intricate halls and gates, marvel at the two sets of stone steps leading to a carved dragon on an inclined stone at the main hall's entrance. Known as the "imperial way," this special entrance was designed for use by the emperor and gods alone.

Enjoy a feast for the senses at the palatial Grand Hotel, which was built in 1952 in the decadent style of classic Chinese architecture. After soaking up the rich décor of this imperial hotel where national leaders including Ronald Reagan and Dwight D. Eisenhower have stayed, relax and savor a traditional Asian-style lunch buffet.

Upon arriving at the National Palace Museum, the Republic of China's amazing national museum, take in one of the largest collections of ancient Chinese objects and art in the world. Spanning over 8,000 years, the impressive collection includes bronze, paintings, jade, ceramics, and precious objects amassed by ancient emperors and more from the Sung, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties.

Next, head to Liberty Square, which is part of a luxuriant two million square-foot park, to visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a regal monument paying to tribute to the former President of the Republic of China. With its brilliant blue glazed-tile roof, gold apex, white marble and natural red cypress ceiling, the shrine is designed to convey sacredness, solemnity, hospitality and peace. Inside, discover valuable artifacts related to the late president's life, including photographs, cars and historic documents.

Before returning to port, comb through the Handicraft Center for locally made clothing, art and charming souvenirs that capture the spirit of this incredible place.

Special Notes:

The drive between the pier and Taipei is approximately one hour each way.

On Mondays the Confucius Temple is closed; a stop at Xingtian Temple will be substituted.