Buzz, Blessings, and the Perfect Photo Ops! 3 Must-Visit Spots for a Laid-Back Summer in Taipei

Even under the blazing summer sun, Taipei makes you want to get out and explore. The city stays lively well into the night, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and incredible food. This summer, check out three must-visit spots that combine delicious eats, cultural charm, and picture-perfect scenery—ideal for crafting your perfect getaway.

Dive into Local Flavors and Nighttime Energy at Shilin Night Market

One of the most famous — and largest — night markets in Taipei, Shilin Night Market comes alive at dusk as rows of food stalls pop up and crowds of locals and tourists fill the streets. It’s a true summer tradition in the city. The must-try? “Da Ji Pai” — a massive deep-fried chicken cutlet so big it could cover your face. Hot, crispy, and incredibly juicy, it’s a favorite you’ll crave again and again. You’ll also find plenty of other street food classics, like savory lu rou fan (braised pork rice) and crispy hu jiao bing (pepper buns), perfect for snacking as you explore. Prefer to sit down? Head to the underground area, where a food court-style space lets you enjoy your meal at a relaxed pace. With everything from tasty bites to bargain fashion and souvenirs, Shilin Night Market is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.

Hours	Around 4:00 PM – Midnight (varies by vendor)
Address	Shilin District, Dadong Road, Taipei
Access	Hotel Gracery Taipei: a 4-min. walk to Zhongshan Station, then take the MRT, followed by a 5-min. walk from Jiantan Station
URL	https://jp.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0003090&id=154

Step into a Sacred Space of History and Prayer — Longshan Temple

Amid the bustle of the city, Longshan Temple offers a sense of calm and sacred grandeur. Founded in 1738, it is one of Taipei’s most revered and historic Buddhist temples, long cherished by locals. Beyond its main deity, Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy), the temple is home to a pantheon of gods each associated with different wishes—like the Old Man Under the Moon for love, Wenchang Dijun for academic success, and Guan Sheng Dijun for wealth and fortune. It’s a favorite stop for women travelers hoping to make a heartfelt wish. Visit early in the morning to witness the temple at its most serene, as local worshippers quietly offer their prayers. Ornate carvings, dazzling decorations, fragrant incense, and the soft smoke drifting through the air—all come together to give you a glimpse into the spiritual depth and rich history woven into the fabric of Taipei.

Hours	6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Open daily)
Address	No. 211, Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District, Taipei
Access	Hotel Gracery Taipei: a 4-min. walk to Zhongshan Station, then take the MRT, followed by a 3-min. walk from Longshan Temple Station
URL	https://www.lungshan.org.tw/

Indulgent Ice Cream That Looks as Good as It Tastes — Miyahara

With a name like “Miyahara Eye Clinic,” you’d never guess it’s one of Taiwan’s most talked-about dessert spots. Housed in a former ophthalmology clinic from the Japanese colonial era, this beautifully renovated building features a stately brick façade and an interior that feels like a vintage library—oozing retro-modern charm. Inside, you’ll find colorful gelato, sweets made with Taiwanese tea, and handcrafted chocolates lined up like treasures. The star of the show? Custom ice cream, where you can choose up to three flavors and pile on toppings like cookies and dried fruit—perfect for your next Instagram post. Every ingredient is carefully selected, resulting in a refined, not-too-sweet taste that makes it an ideal treat during a sightseeing break.

Hours	11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Open daily)
Address	No. 20, Zhongshan Road, Central District, Taichung City
Access	From Hotel Gracery Taipei, walk about 1 min. to Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station and take the MRT to Taipei Station. Transfer to the Taiwan High Speed Rail and get off at Xinwuri Station. Then take a local train to Taichung Station. The shop is about a 3-min. walk from there.
URL	https://www.miyahara.com.tw/en/index.html