Hotels near National Palace Museum in Taipei

The National Palace Museum in Taipei is one of the world’s most significant repositories of Chinese art and artifacts. Housing nearly 700,000 pieces, its collection spans over 8,000 years of Chinese history, from the Neolithic age to the modern era. The museum’s origins date back to the early 20th century, and its current location in the Shilin district of Taipei was established in 1965. The museum is renowned for its extensive and diverse collection, including paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, bronzes, and rare books.

When visiting the National Palace Museum, it’s best to start early to make the most of the experience, as the museum is vast and can take several hours to explore thoroughly. Visitors should prioritize the Jadeite Cabbage, a delicate jade sculpture resembling a piece of cabbage with a hidden grasshopper and katydid, and the Meat-shaped Stone, which looks astonishingly like a piece of braised pork. These are among the museum’s most famous and must-see items. To avoid crowds, weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.

The museum also offers a range of educational programs and guided tours that enhance the visitor experience. Engaging in one of these tours can provide deeper insights into the history and significance of the exhibits. For those looking to explore the museum at a leisurely pace, the audio guides available for rent are a great alternative. After touring the exhibits, visitors can enjoy the surrounding gardens and the Zhishan Garden, which is designed in the style of classical Chinese gardens and provides a serene escape from the bustling city. Don’t forget to visit the museum gift shop, which offers high-quality reproductions and souvenirs.