Too Hot to Handle, Too Cool to Miss. My Taipei Summer Adventure

I visited Taipei in July, and it was scorching hot! The kind of heat that makes your clothes stick and your sunscreen work overtime. But despite the sweat, it was an amazing first experience filled with culture, nature and vibrant city energy. Here are some of the places I visited from my trip: 1. Ximending If you love vibrant street vibes, shopping, and street food, Ximending is the place to be. It’s full of energy, colors, and personality. I visited on a humid July afternoon and the buzz was still going strong. Don’t forget to take some photos at Ximending zebra crossing. 2. Yehliu Geopark Yehliu Geopark is like stepping onto another planet. While the Queen’s Head rock is the star, the other rock formations are just as fascinating. The sun was blazing in July, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and water. Try to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and the heat. It’s an unforgettable stop for nature lovers. 3. Shifen Waterfall A peaceful walk along the Jilong River to Shifen Waterfall was the perfect escape from the busy streets. The waterfall was clean and scenic, ideal for a relaxing stroll. In July, everything was green and vibrant, and the mist from the falls was a welcome refresh in the heat. There were great photo spots from every angle. 4. Jiufen Walking through Jiufen felt like stepping into a storybook. The red lanterns glowing along the narrow lanes, traditional teahouses, and sweeping mountain views gave the whole place a dreamy, Spirited Away feel. A short distance away, I also visited Chingwen and Yongqing Villages, which had even more retro charm. The quiet alleys, cozy cafés, and little art corners created a peaceful atmosphere that was a lovely contrast to the city’s hustle. These spots were perfect for slowing down and soaking in the feel of old Taiwan. 5. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall This iconic site blends grandeur with calm. The white-and-blue structure looked incredible under the July sky, and watching the changing of the guards was a highlight. The gardens surrounding the hall were also lovely, making it a great place to take photos or simply sit in the shade and rest. 6. Taipei 101 Even without going to the top, Taipei 101 is stunning. Its sleek, pagoda-style design stands out against the skyline, especially on a clear summer day. I got some great photos from the Xiangshan trail and around the plaza. Right outside the building is the iconic red LOVE sculpture, a popular photo spot that adds to the charm of the visit. This landmark is a must-see, even if you’re just admiring it from the ground. #travel #solotrip #taipei