Blue Canoe | Your Local Guide to Taiwan
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Ultimate Taiwan Packing List: Advice from a Local

14 Mins Read

If you’re gearing up for a trip to Taiwan, you’re in for a treat! But before you rush to the airport, let’s chat about the must-have Taiwan packing list to keep your stay comfy and fun. Trust me, a lot of my friends have been there. Many visitors can be so pumped that they packed everything except the right clothes for its notoriously unpredictable weather. Spoiler alert: drenched in a rainstorm while wearing flip-flops is not the vibe! Source: dcard Growing up in Taiwan and having lived here for over two decades, We’ve learned a thing or two about packing for Taiwan. So, let’s avoid rookie mistakes and ensure your adventure is unforgettable for all the right reasons! This comprehensive packing list for Taiwan covers everything from clothing to gadgets, ensuring that you’re prepared for an unforgettable adventure. Plan B: Where to Shop Before we dig into packing for Taiwan,…

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12 Best Restaurants Near Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial and Nanmen

11 Mins Read

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial hall is not just a tourist attraction. It is deeply ingrained in the locals life. Along with the bustling community, there is an equally rich food scene to support. Growing up in Taiwan and studied at Taipei First Girls’ High School, we were lucky enough to be surrounded by the vibrant food scene of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Nanmen. Our school is within walking distance of this attraction and food scene. From a young age, we were hooked on the mouthwatering smells wafting from the restaurants and food stalls. Food around here is often our comfort after a long school day or a fun gathering between friends.. From slurping up bowls of beef noodle soup to savoring delicate xiao long bao, we’ve developed a deep appreciation for the authentic flavors and hidden gems that make Taiwanese food so special. Let us be your guides to the…

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What to Eat near Longshan Temple, Wanhua: 15 Best Food Stalls

14 Mins Read

Come find out why Wanhua, Taipei, is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Home to the renowned Longshan Temple, this historic district has garnered international attention for its Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded street food. From humble street food stalls to time-honored establishments, Wanhua offers a delightful blend of traditional Taiwanese flavors and international influences. With insights from local experts, we’ll guide you through the best spots to savor authentic Taiwanese flavors near Longshan Temple, the wonderful Wenhua neighborhood. History of Wanhua Source: taipei.travel Wanhua 萬華, once known as “Māngjiá,” 艋舺 has a rich history dating back to the Qing Dynasty. As one of Taiwan’s earliest developed areas, it has served as a bustling commercial hub for centuries. Its strategic location at the confluence of the Tamsui, Xindian, and Dahan rivers facilitated commerce and cultural exchange. This district’s unique blend of historical significance and culinary heritage has made it a popular destination…

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What to Eat in Tamsui: 30 Best Street Food, Restaurants and Cafe

17 Mins Read

Tamsui, a coastal town in New Taipei City renowned for its scenic beauty and historical significance, is equally celebrated for its delicious food. The local food scene is a packed with Taiwanese flavors, offering a great mix of traditional dishes and modern interpretations. From the iconic fish ball soup to the delectable oyster omelets and the irresistible grilled squid, Tamsui’s seafood and street food are a must-try for any visitor. In this post, we will list out all the best Tamsui restaurants and must-eat local favorites that have made Tamsui a foodie’s heaven.  Tamsui Old Street Source: newtaipei.travel After exiting Tamsui MRT station and taking a right turn, you’ll arrive at the famous Tamsui Old Street. It is a pedestrian-only street brimming with historical charm and tasty offerings. This popular tourist spot is lined with traditional shops, trendy boutiques, and most importantly, a plethora of food stalls and restaurants serving…

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What to Eat at Maokong: 12 Best Tea Houses, Restaurants and Cafes

9 Mins Read

Maokong, a picturesque mountain village in Taipei, is best for its stunning gondola rides and lush tea plantations. But what truly sets Maokong apart is its amazing food and tea culture. Beyond the breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere, this charming destination offers a delicious array of snacks, dishes and tea. From traditional Taiwanese delicacies like Maokong tea leaf ice cream to fresh mountain vegetables. This post will explore all the must-try dishes and hidden gems of Maokong. Many visitors combine a trip to Taipei Zoo with a ride on the Maokong gondola. This itinerary offers a fun-filled day of adventure and exploration. To learn more about it, check out our blog post on Day Trip to Taipei Zoo and Maokong. We provide all the best tips and a detailed itinerary for you to follow. It also talks about What to Do in Maokong. If you want to learn more about…

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Day Trip to Taipei Zoo and Maokong Gondola

12 Mins Read

Taipei Zoo and Maokong Gondola offer a unique and unforgettable day trip for families, couples, or solo travelers. Easily accessible from the Taipei city center, these two attractions provide a delightful blend of wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery. In this post, we’ll guide you through the best itinerary for exploring Taipei Zoo and Maokong Gondola in a day. We will provide valuable tips and insights to ensure you make the most of your day. From must-see exhibits and transportation options to local recommendations, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan a memorable adventure. Taipei Zoo and Maokong Gondola Itinerary Source:SmileTaiwan To make the most of your day trip, we recommend starting with a visit to the Taipei Zoo in the morning. Due to its vast size and diverse exhibits, exploring the zoo can be quite energy-intensive. Moreover, Maokong Gondola opens till the evening, so you can spend more time at the zoo…

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What to Eat at Yangmingshan: Best Zhuzihu Restaurants and Cafe

13 Mins Read

Yangmingshan National Park is a haven for nature lovers and foodies alike. With its stunning volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and lush forests, it’s a must-visit destination in Taipei. It is renowned not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its rich culinary scene. From traditional Taiwanese delicacies to international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best restaurants and cafes to eat at Yangmingshan, so you can make the most of your visit. Yangmingshan Restaurants There are three main areas to dine and relax near Yangmingshan. First are the local cuisines near Zhuzihu. There should be be plenty of options around the attraction. So you don’t have to worry that you will starve in the mountains. Most of these Yangmingshan restaurants feature free-range chicken, tasty mountain vegetables and traditional Taiwanese food. We will give you some recommendations in later sections.…

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National Palace Museum Taipei: Transportation, Ticket, Food

16 Mins Read

The National Palace Museum Taipei is a cultural treasure trove that houses one of the world’s largest and most prestigious collections of Chinese art. Located in the picturesque Shilin District of Taipei, this iconic museum boasts over 700,000 pieces of priceless artifacts spanning thousands of years of Chinese history and civilization. From exquisite jade carvings and delicate porcelain wares to majestic bronze sculptures and intricate paintings, the museum offers a captivating journey through China’s rich cultural heritage. In this post, we’ll provide you with a detailed guide to the National Palace Museum Taipei, covering everything you need to know for a memorable visit. We’ll discuss transportation options, hours of operation, ticket information, food and dining options, exhibit highlights, tips for visiting, and more. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Taipei. This guide will help you make the most of your experience at this world-renowned museum. How to Go to National Palace Museum Taiwan? Source: npm.gov.tw Public Transportation: Taking the…

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Taipei 101 Food Guide: Food Court, Best Restaurants and More

15 Mins Read

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Welcome to the buzzing city of Taipei, where skyscrapers reach for the sky and flavors will blow your mind. Taipei 101 is not one of those boring tourist spots that only has overpriced fusion dishes. This wonderful skyscraper is actually where hundreds of thousands of Taiwanese come to work daily! As someone who loves Taiwanese food, we’ve had an amazing journey through the vibrant food scenes of Taipei. Growing up in Taiwan, surrounded by the lively sounds of night markets and the tempting smells from food carts, we developed a real love for Taiwanese food. Those that we missed dearly during our studies abroad. After enjoying countless bowls of beef noodles and savoring delicate xiao long bao, we’ve gained a unique understanding of the authentic flavors and hidden gems that many travelers miss. Let us be your guide to unforgettable food experiences that offer not…

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Local’s Guide to White Water Rafting in Taiwan

8 Mins Read

Thinking about rafting in the Taiwan rivers? Have you ever imagined conquering rushing rapids, surrounded by breathtaking scenery? Taiwan, an island nation known for its delicious food and stunning landscapes, might surprise you. Nestled amongst its lush mountains and vibrant cities lie roaring rivers perfect for an epic white water rafting adventure. We urge you to consider ditching the usual tourist itinerary and going on an unforgettable water ride. We did not realize the fun of rafting until we studied abroad. However, our home country, Taiwan, actually has so much to offer. As Taiwanese ourselves, we want to share with you our personal experiences, local insights and secrets to the fun of rafting in Taiwan. In this post, we will introduce some of the top spots for white water rafting in Taiwan, the best seasons and tours and some tips on planning. If you craving a wet and wild adventure,…

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