10 fun and interesting Taipei facts

1. A Global Alpha-City

Taipei is a major player in the global economy, having been classified as an 'Alpha -' city in 2012. This designation indicates that Taipei is a key link between major economic regions, allowing for the flow of goods, services, and capital between them. As a result, Taipei is an important hub for international trade and commerce, making it a vital part of the global economy.

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2. The Capital of Taiwan

Taipei has been the capital of Taiwan since before the Republic of China took control of the island in 1945. Prior to this, Taiwan was a colony of Imperial Japan, yet Taipei remained the capital throughout this period. This is a testament to the city's long-standing importance in the region, and its status as a major political and economic hub.

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3. Taipei hosts international flora expo in 2010 and 2011

In 2009, Taipei hosted the Summer Deaflympics, an international sporting event for athletes with hearing impairments, and in 2010 to 2011, the city held the first ever Taipei International Flora Exposition. This event showcased a variety of plants from around the world, and featured a range of activities such as flower exhibitions, gardening workshops, and educational seminars. The event was a great success, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world.

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4. Taipei 101: The world's tallest building

Taipei 101 is a landmark of the city of Taipei, Taiwan, and was the world's tallest building from 2004 to 2010. As of 2014, it is the fifth tallest building in the world, standing at a height of 509.2 meters (1,671 feet). It is an iconic symbol of the city, and is a popular tourist attraction.

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5. Explore Taipei's "Road to Heaven"

The Xinsheng Road in Taipei is affectionately known as the "Road to Heaven" due to its abundance of religious sites. This road connects many districts in the city and is home to a variety of temples, shrines, churches and mosques, making it a unique and spiritual experience for visitors. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the city's diverse religious culture.

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6. Taipei's Harajuku-Style Shopping District

Taipei is often compared to Tokyo's Harajuku district, renowned for its vibrant shopping and pedestrian areas. This comparison is apt, as the streets of Taipei are filled with bustling markets, trendy boutiques, and lively street performers. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion trends, unique souvenirs, or just a place to people-watch, Taipei's Harajuku-style shopping district is the perfect place to explore.

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7. Uncover Ancient China at Taipei's Palace Museum!

The National Palace Museum in Taipei is home to the world's largest collection of artifacts from ancient China, boasting over 700,000 pieces. Since 2007, the museum has made its collection available to the public online, allowing anyone with an internet connection to explore the rich history of Chinese culture. With its vast array of artifacts, the National Palace Museum in Taipei is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the history of China.

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8. Taipei is one of the most densely populated cities in the world!

Taipei is the most densely populated city in Taiwan, with an estimated population of three million people in the city itself and seven million in the greater metropolitan area. This makes it one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with an average of over 20,000 people per square kilometer. With its vibrant culture, bustling night markets, and world-class attractions, it's no wonder why Taipei is such a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

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9. Taipei Basin polluted

The bustling city of Taipei is home to the second largest basin in Taiwan, the Taipei Basin. Unfortunately, this basin has been polluted by sewage and pollution from illegal industries, making it a major environmental concern. The pollution has caused a decrease in air quality, water quality, and the health of the local wildlife. The government has taken steps to reduce the pollution, but more needs to be done to protect the environment and the people of Taipei.

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10. Taipei's 1990 student rallies help bring about democracy in Taiwan

In 1990, the Wild Lily student rallies in Taipei were a pivotal moment in the city's history, as they helped to bring about a dramatic shift from a one-party rule to a multi-party democracy. The rallies, which were attended by tens of thousands of students, were a peaceful demonstration of the people's desire for greater freedom and democracy. The protests were successful in bringing about a new era of democracy in Taiwan, and the city of Taipei has since become a beacon of democracy in the region.