Touring Taipei : National Palace Museum Shilin

Upon my mother’s arrival to Taiwan, we started off with a few days in Taipei (check out the super detailed Taipei visit itinerary on Taiwanderful, professional, eh?).

First, I took my mother to have her first lunch in Taiwan, which was a challenge because she keeps vegetarian (summary of veggie restaurants found in Taipei is on Taiwanderful). I believe she was ecstatic about almost everything she tasted in Taiwan and I rediscovered just how good veggie food in Taiwan really gets.

(Sidenote – one of the first things I realized during my mother’s visit in Taiwan was that my Chinese is actually far better than what I thought it was as I was able to discuss all I needed and more with the locals without any difficulties)

Then, riding the MRT to Shilin and taking the bus we arrived just in time for the English tour of National Palace Museum.

I’ve taken the English tour 3 times before, each time with a different guide and always got to see new things and hear new stories. The guide level varies tremendously, mainly having to do with the level of English, but they all provide a good introduction to Chinese arts and some of mainland’s history and culture. It’s amusing to see the guides struggle with the fine delicate lines between the definitions of "Taiwanese culture/history" and "Chinese culture/history" every time.

Atmosphere was quite festive as it was Christmas time and all the decorations were in place.

The nearby Chih-shan Gardens are beautiful, especially evening time.

Always a pleasure to visit.