Taipei is the cultural, political and economic center of Taiwan. It is located in a basin in northern Taiwan, hence it’s name, 台北 (tai bei): tai of Taiwan, and bei meaning north. The capital city is what most people think of when they think of Taiwan (if they think of Taiwan). Even the most iconic monument in Taiwan (practically a mascot for Taiwan) shares the name of the city, Taipei 101. Taipei is an amalgam of a nuanced history and political landscape. It feels a little Japanese, a little Chinese. Traditional buildings are juxtaposed with modern architecture. A lively chatter of languages can be heard throughout the city.

Over 2.6 million people call Taipei home, most of them in the densely packed urban area (the population density is nearly 10,000 people per square km). Compared to the average European city, Taipei is large at ~270 sq km, spanning 12 different districts. When you combine it with the surrounding New Taipei City (aka the also very urban suburbs) and Keelung (a smaller city just north of Taipei), you account for 30% of the population of Taiwan.

Demographics and geography aside, Taipei is like the global ambassador for Taiwan, the gateway to the rest of the country, carrying the burden of proving Taiwan’s value and charming visitors to want to discover more beyond the city limits. All things considered, Taipei does a pretty damn good job of it.

While it is the most cosmopolitan and modern part of Taiwan, it simultaneously celebrates the cultural heritage and pushes forward to the future of Taiwanese culture. It teases the natural beauty of Taiwan while exuding Taiwanese warmth toward foreigners and lifestyle of convenience. From the bustling city life, one can easily escape into nature: up in the mountains, into the hot springs. From street foods to avant-garde culinary experiences, from historic monuments to department store complexes, Taipei has it all.

Taipei is well-connected in a network of Asian metropolises, in constant dialogue with Tokyo and Seoul and Hong Kong and Shanghai. Beyond the Asia tourism, there’s the exchange of fashion and trends, you can expect pretty much any trending chain store to open up an outpost in Taipei. (It’ll likely be cheaper too).

Taipei is the perfect place to start your Taiwanese journey. You could just as easily spend a weekend here or several months and not get bored. From here, you can go anywhere with the tap of a card. But don’t hurry along too quickly – there’s plenty to explore here in the city.