Situated between China and Japan, Taiwan is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. A tropical island which experiences seasonal climates, marked by beautiful mountain ranges, a gorgeous Sun Moon Lake and cities that feature delicious street foods. Not to mention, Taiwan boasts some of the world’s ;kindest locals.

Taipei, the capital city, is located in the north and proudly serves as the nation’s spearhead of fashion, gourmet restaurants and cultural landmarks. From soaking in steamy hot springs to devouring the best soup dumplings in the world, here are some of the best things to do in Taipei.

Go up to the second tallest building in the world – Taipei 101. An architectural wonder, Tapei 101 is a modern icon of Taiwan’s capital. It’s a shopping mall, featuring numerous world-renowned restaurants and cafés. Don’t miss the observatory at the top floor that showcases a magnificent panoramic view of the city. SEE ALSO: Inside The Magnificence Of Taipei 101: A True Architectural Wonder

Dedicated to the former ruler of Taiwan, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall highlights  change of guards at which takes place at every hour, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Liberty Square is a breathtaking space to wander and admire the nearby National Theatre and Concert Hall, as surrounding architectures symbolize various meanings that embody Chinese proverbs and Confucius philosophies.

Devour the best soup dumplings in the world at Din Tai Fung. Be sure to order a sizzling basket of delicious “xiao long bao”: minced pork soaked in flavorful broth wrapped in a thin bun. On the menu, there are also other fan-favorites, including: Shrimp and Kurobuta Pork Spicy Wontons, Pot Stickers, Sour and Spicy Soup…and much more. SEE ALSO: Din Tai Fung: Secrets Behind Taiwan’s Famous Soup Dumplings

Dive into local history at Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, honoring Taiwan’s national father. Located near Taipei 101, the interior museum showcases Sun’s life and his fight during the revolution which he led. As well as social, educational and cultural impact that he influenced throughout the history of Taiwan.

One of the cultural activities that captivate both locals and travelers is devouring in street foods at night markets. Oyster omelettes, sugar cane juice, pepper pork buns, grilled sausages are some classics. For adventurous foodies, try stinky tofu glazed in soy sauce and marinated cabbage. There are several night markets throughout Taipei but the most popular is Shilin Night Market. SEE ALSO: 7 Of The Most Popular Night Markets In Taipei

Often, National Palace Museum is considered as one of the most important museums in the world with more than 696,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts, artworks and collections spanning over 10,000 years of Chinese history, from Neolithic Age to late Qing Dynasty.

Since many were destroyed in China during Cultural Revolution, this museum – established in 1965 – is referred to as the most important museum in Asia. Two most notable pieces not to be missed: Jade Cabbage, and The Meat-Shaped Stone.

Soak up the sulphur in Beitou hot springs, located in the northeast of Taipei. Under Japanese colonization, Taiwanese also began to indulge in bathing in hot springs, as it became a popular leisure activity. Today, travelers can plan a day trip and reserve space at a hot springs hotel nearby or sink into the experience in a public pool at Beitou Hot Springs Museum.

Be one with nature at Yangmingshan National Park – one of seven national parks in Taiwan. Every spring, Yangmingshan attract hikers and nature lovers with stunning cherry blossoms. There are several hiking trails leading to the legendary Seven Star, for travelers to completely immerse in Mother Nature Mountain!

Ride the gondola in Maokong then drink aromatic Taiwanese tea! Maokong is known for abundant tea gardens and a thrilling gondola ride which delivers a mesmerizing view of the city, with several stops along the way, including one at Zhinan Temple. Travelers can also opt for Crystal Cabins, or Eyes of Maokong Gondola, that contain thick glass bottoms. These cabins require a different waiting line as they operate at certain designated hours.

Hailed as Taipei’s coolest streets, Yong Kang Street is home to mango shaved ice, beef noodle soup restaurants, and independent boutiques selling handcrafted souvenirs. Situated near Daan District, explore antique tea salons and tranquil cafés in a lovely afternoon. Shops featuring colorful umbrellas, quirky stationaries and handmade jewelries are tucked inside tiny though charming alleys.

Browse through Jianguo Jade Market on a lazy weekend, especially for shoppers on the look out for Taiwanese jades. For decades, Jianguo Flower/Jade Market has existed underneath an expressway overpass. The markets are compartmentalized different sections but connected in one giant path. Hundreds of vendors display flowers and jades, jewelries,, artifacts, ceramic and clay tea sets and vintage finds.

Sing your heart out at Cashbox Party KTV since karaoke is a big deal in Asia. Taiwan takes the experience up a notch by creating luxurious suites, complete with food and drink menus a few hours of a karaoke session. It’s the perfect way for a few friends to gather, especially after the bars and night clubs have closed their doors! There are several Cashbox Party locations all over Taipei, most are open 24 hours.

The outdoor fish market has been transformed into a chic sushi bar, cool eateries, artisan shops highlighting local catch of the day. Addiction Aquatic Development is emblematic of Taiwanese’s love for Japanese seafood, as the upscale food market welcomes guests with large fish tanks at the entrance.

Catch the sunset at seaside Tamsui. Taiwan is a tropical island surrounded by water, making Tamsui a popular waterfront to enjoy street food and tranquil strolls in old alleys. The original residents of Tamsui were Ketagalan indigenous people, once the Spanish arrived in 1629, they built Fort Santo Domingo which was reconstructed by the Dutch in 1644. In 1724, the Taiwanese government rebuilt the fort and leased it to the British as an embassy. Since 1984, it’s been opened to the public as a tourist landmark. Upon evening, there’s also a night market which unfolds with local treats.

Inside Taipei Expo Park is Taipei Fine Arts Museum, showing vast collections of contemporary art. Served as a space to foster artistic spirit in a land known for technological advancements, TFAM is a creative space to uncover the imaginative minds of Taiwanese and international artists, including paintings by Jun T. Lai, installations by Yen Chun Lin, video art by Yuan Goang-Ming.

Built in 1978 by settlers from China, Longshan Temple is one of the most iconic temples on the island. It was meant as a sanctuary to worship Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy,) Matsu (Goddess of the Sea,) and Guanyu (Buddhist General.) In addition to waterfalls, massive columns and beautiful calligraphy, Longshan Temple’s architectural design is symbolic of southern Chinese influences, comprising elements prevalent via archaic Taiwanese buildings.

Shop ’til you drop in back alleys of Zhongxiao East Road. Before Xinyi District was fully developed, Zhongxiao East Road was widely considered as Taipei’s downtown. Similar to Soho (NYC) or Le Marais (Paris,) this eastern part of the city encompasses trendy boutiques, imported fashion from Japan and Korea, adorable cafés. Have fun stumbling upon unique shopping finds, vintage shops, street wear and local brands.

See the ancient Taipei on Old Street in Jiufen. “Jiu” means the “nine” in Mandarin, deriving from the nine families who lived in Jiufen long ago. Today, it’s a chance for travelers  to peek inside vintage Taipei through windy alleyways, nostalgically long staircases. There are numerous shops and restaurants exuding retro ambiance. HOT TIP! Don’t go on weekends, to avoid massive crowds.

Get into the Harajuku youth of Taipei in Ximending, also a district made for budget and student travelers. For those curious toward Taipei’s subculture; Ximending is where anime, street styles, graffiti, tattoo artists and street performers energize the neighborhood with pride. LGBT+ communities thrives in Ximending, hence there’s a plethora of gay-friendly bars and clubs.

Snap a few photos at the Presidential Palace, designed by Japanese architect Uheiji Nagano during the era of Japanese rule of Taiwan from 1895 to 1945. A central tower, perched above Baroque-style architecture made from red bricks. To this day, it’s where Presidents of Taiwan and her/his administrations operate.

Every year during the Sky Lantern Festival (15th day of the first month of the lunar calendar,) locals write down wishes on paper lanterns, then release them to the sky. The festival typically takes place over three days, and in the rural district of Pingxi. Besides March, travelers can also write their wishes on paper lanterns in the city of Shifen.

For gamers and techies, this is a definite must-do since Taiwan is known as one of the global leaders in technology and digital industry. Snag a few of tech gadgets, games, accessories. Travelers can find everything imaginable at Guanghua Digital Plaza’s six-story building.