Taiwan’s dynamic and bustling capital city is modern and highly cosmopolitan while retaining much of its native Taiwanese, Chinese, and Japanese cultural elements. This intriguing combination of old-world, Asian charm and contemporary sophistication, pleasantly surprises the majority of its visitors. With its excellent public transport, its reasonable prices, and its remarkably friendly locals, Taipei is a pleasure to explore. Popular sights include the impressive National Palace Museum, home to more than 696,000 pieces of ancient Chinese artifacts and artworks; the large, vibrant Shilin Night Market where you can sample some outstanding Taiwanese food, and of course the iconic Taipei 101 building which, as the world's second-tallest building, offers remarkable panoramic views of this glorious city and its lush surrounding mountains. A quick train ride to the areas surrounding the city will reveal some breathtaking waterfalls, relaxing hot springs, lovely river parks, and quaint little rural villages backed by an impressive mountainous national park.