Wistaria Tea House
The historically rich Wistaria House is the perfect rainy day haven. Constructed in the 1920’s as a private residence, this Japanese era building has seen many changes both physically and politically. It served as a base for government officials, a meeting venue for revolutionaries, and later, a workspace for artists and academics. Its current status as a tea house provides a serene environment for reminiscing on Taipei’s past while staying dry from the elements.
Address: No. 1, Lane 16, Section 3, Xinsheng South Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, 106
Suho Memorial Paper Museum
Hailed as one of China’s four great inventions, paper has deep roots in Chinese culture. The Suho Paper factory boasts a well presented history of paper, a floor of art instillations, and a rooftop paper making workshop. While waiting for your handmade made paper to dry, you can immerse yourself in the unique woven-wood architecture of the adjoining café.
Address: No. 68, Section 2, Chang’an E Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, 104
Taipei City Underground Mall
Unbeknownst to rain soaked street walkers, a maze of passages lies just below. A good place to start is Taipei Main Station, from there you can head in numerous directions (there are many signs). The underground mall is a true miscellany of shops boasting all kinds of items. Merchandise is an endless assortment of used game consoles from the 90’s, miniature figurines, geodes, jade, and more. There are a good amount of standard clothing and souvenir shops as well. If you’re lucky, you may even stumble upon the cheapest ice cream stands in the city!
Closest MRT: Taipei Main Station
Chinese Calligraphy Class
Get the full cultural experience with a lesson on the traditional art of Chinese calligraphy. This class will not only teach you the basics of the revered Chinese art, but will also introduce some of the history behind it. Equipped with this knowledge, the scrolls and pieces hung around the city will take on a whole new meaning.
Address: 2F, No. 89, Siping St., Zhongshan District, Taipei City, 104
Eslite Spectrum Crafts
Eslite started out from humble beginnings as a single bookstore on the streets of Taipei. Since then, however, it has grown into a massive international chain which offers much more than just books. Glass blowing, jewelry making, leatherworking, and crocheting are just a few of the many craft workshops offered throughout the Eslite Spectrum store. The range of books is also well worth a peruse.
Address: No. 88, Yanchang Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, 110
Jianguo Weekend Jade and Flower Market
Any visitor to Taipei will quickly realize, in this city, no space is wasted. Tucked discreetly under an overpass, the Jade and Flower market spans a remarkable distance. In addition to a plethora of multicolored Taiwan orchids, a breathtaking range of trees, plants, and flowers are also on display. The jade portion of the market is equally as stunning and extensive. Rows upon rows of merchants show up to sell their handmade jewelry featuring jade, coral, lapis lazuli, turquoise, and so on. The array of styles and prices provide an option for every interested buyer.
Address: Section 1, Jianguo S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, 106
*NOTE: Only open on weekends!
