Presidential Office Building
Build a trip to Taipei
About
Completed in 1919 as the Governor-General’s Office during the Japanese era, this grand red-and-white brick building remains the heart of Taiwan's political power. The architecture is a majestic Neo-Baroque style with a prominent 60-meter central tower. The atmosphere is one of official gravity and historical significance. The sensory experience during a tour is a walk through high-ceilinged corridors and elegant state rooms. Expert recommendation: Visit during one of the 'Open House' days (usually once a month) when the entire building, including the inner gardens, is open to the public without prior booking. Pro tip: Standard weekday tours require online booking 3 days in advance and a passport for entry. The ground floor exhibition on the history of Taiwan's democracy is very well-curated.
Highlights
- Baroque-style colonial architecture
- Seat of Taiwan's government
- Historical central tower
- Public weekday morning tours
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
FUJIYA Beef Cutlet
Fujiya specializes in Japanese-style Gyukatsu (deep-fried beef cutlet), a dish that has taken Taipei by storm. The beef is breaded in fine panko and flash-fried to a rare center, then served with a small personal stone grill for guests to sear each slice to their liking. The atmosphere is minimalist, quiet, and typically Japanese. The sensory experience is the sizzle of the beef on the hot stone and the buttery texture of the high-quality wagyu. Expert recommendation: Dip the beef in the fresh wasabi and soy sauce for the most authentic taste. Pro tip: The shop is small with limited seating, so expect a queue. It is located near the Taipei Main Station, making it a convenient and high-quality meal for travelers arriving or departing the city.
National Taiwan Museum
Established in 1908, this is the oldest museum in Taiwan, housed in a magnificent Greek-revival building featuring Doric columns and a stained-glass dome. Located in 228 Peace Memorial Park, the museum focuses on Taiwan’s natural history, indigenous cultures, and biological diversity. The atmosphere is one of European-style classical elegance. The sensory experience is defined by the grand, sunlit atrium and the detailed dioramas showcasing Taiwan’s unique ecosystems. Expert recommendation: Visit the 'Land Bank' branch of the museum right across the street; it’s housed in an old bank building and features a massive dinosaur exhibit in the former vault area. Pro tip: Admission is incredibly cheap (30 TWD) and covers both buildings. It’s a great place to spend a rainy morning in the city center.
Ting Tai Fung (Ximending)
Often confused by tourists with the famous 'Din' Tai Fung, this local favorite (often spelled 'Ting' or similar locally) offers a more traditional and accessible dim sum experience in the Ximending area. It lacks the global polish of its namesake but makes up for it with a raw, authentic charm and classic Shanghainese-style small eats. The atmosphere is noisy, casual, and nostalgic. The sensory experience is defined by the clatter of bamboo steamers and the sight of local elders enjoying long lunches. Expert recommendation: Try their 'Xiao Long Bao' and the steamed vegetable dumplings; they are excellent value for the price. Pro tip: It’s a great alternative if you don't want to wait two hours for a table at the major chains. It provides a much more 'old-school' Taipei dining vibe.
Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle
A Ximending institution since 1975, Ay-Chung is famous for serving only one dish: silky rice vermicelli in a thick, savory gravy with chewy braised pork large intestines. There is no seating here; the sensory experience involves joining a crowd of locals and tourists standing on the street, slurping hot noodles from paper bowls. The atmosphere is fast-paced and communal. Expert recommendation: Customize your bowl at the condiment station with the 'Holy Trinity' of garlic, vinegar, and their notoriously spicy chili oil. Pro tip: The line moves incredibly fast despite looking long. Use the small bowl for a snack and the large for a meal. Watch out for the heat—the broth stays scorching hot until the very last bite.
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