National Palace & Chiang Kai Shek's Memorial Hall

Description

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

Come to know the rich culture and heritage of Taipei during this stirring tour that begins with a lovely drive from Keelung City, Taiwan's second largest port after Kaohsiung, through the countryside, where undulating hills, lush and green from frequent rain, roll toward the horizon. Along the way, pass Songshan Domestic Airport and, in the distance, take in the imperial Grand Hotel, which was built in 1952 and overlooks Taipei from its regal hilltop perch. World-famous national leaders, including Ronald Reagan and Dwight D. Eisenhower, have stayed at this palatial and elegant tribute to classic Chinese architecture.

Before long, arrive at Martyr's Shrine, where over 350,000 square feet of grass, surround a majestic monument honoring the 330,000 fallen war heroes, who lost their lives, fighting for China during historic battles that took place between 1911 and 1949. Here, snap photos of the grand archways, the serene atmosphere and the stoic, white-uniformed military officers, who are trained to remain as emotionless as statues, including during the impressive changing-of-the-guard ceremony.

Next, head through Taipei, the capital of the Republic of China, where bustling streets, busy sidewalks and thriving businesses command attention. Eventually, reach the National Palace Museum, home to one of the most expansive collections of ancient Chinese art and artifacts in the world. Spanning over 8,000 years and four dynasties, the museum's magnificent collection includes priceless objects once owned by ancient emperors, along with paintings, jade, ceramics, bronze and more.

Back on the exciting streets of Taipei, snap photos of the second tallest skyscraper in the world, Taipei 101, which was completed in 2004. A fascinating mix of high-tech and traditional design, this towering yet graceful structure features repeated segments of eight floors that all together are designed to evoke an Asian pagoda, a stalk of bamboo and a stack of ancient Chinese ingots, each an important symbol in Chinese culture. One of many striking design motifs includes curled ruyi, an ancient symbol for heavenly clouds.

Next, travel to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a regal monument situated in a luxuriant, two million square-foot park, known as Liberty Square. Dedicated to the former President of the Republic of China, this stately shrine amazes with its brilliant glazed blue-tile roof, gleaming gold apex pointing heavenward, serene white marble and natural accents, including a red cypress ceiling. These carefully chosen elements were selected to convey peace, hospitality, solemnity and sacredness. Venture inside to view vintage photographs, cars, historic documents and more related to late Chiang Kai-shek's life. Before departing, scan the gift shop for souvenirs to honor this day, then enjoy a relaxing ride back to the seaport.

Special Notes:

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