Among Taipei’s many cultural attractions, the National Palace Museum stands out as a place where history, art, and heritage come together. Perched on a hillside in the Shilin District, the museum houses one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts in the world.
During our visit to Taipei, we included the National Palace Museum in our itinerary because we wanted to experience the stories behind the treasures that survived centuries of political changes and historical upheavals. Little did we know that our visit would become more than just a museum tour. It became a journey through thousands of years of Chinese civilization.
Getting to the National Palace Museum
Reaching the museum was surprisingly convenient. We took the Taipei Metro Wenhu Line and got off at Dazhi Station. From there, we walked a short distance toward a tofu store where we caught the B13 bus, also known as the Brown 13 route.
The bus ride took around 10 to 15 minutes, and soon we arrived directly in front of the museum entrance. The trip itself was already enjoyable as we moved away from the busy city streets and gradually entered the greener, more peaceful area of northern Taipei.
A friend who had visited the museum before told us that the National Palace Museum showcases the history of China. That description immediately sparked our curiosity because the museum’s own history is deeply connected to the country’s political past.
A Museum Born from History
The story of the National Palace Museum began in Beijing’s Forbidden City. After the expulsion of Puyi, the final emperor of China, the Palace Museum was established within the former imperial palace in 1925.
However, the Chinese Civil War later divided the administration of the museum. As the conflict intensified, the Nationalist government moved thousands of valuable artifacts from the Palace Museum collection to Taiwan. Meanwhile, the Communist forces took control of the Palace Museum in Beijing.
To preserve and display these treasures, the National Palace Museum in Taipei was constructed in 1965. Today, it protects an extraordinary collection of more than 700,000 artifacts, including ancient paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, bronze pieces, and historical documents.
First Impressions of the Grand Museum
Even before entering the building, the National Palace Museum already made a strong impression. From the main gate, a long pathway welcomed visitors, lined with carefully maintained trees and landscaped greenery.
As the museum building appeared in the distance, we found ourselves admiring the peaceful surroundings. The combination of traditional Chinese architecture and lush scenery created a sense of entering a place dedicated to preserving the past.
Unfortunately, because we had limited time, we were unable to explore some parts of the museum complex. We missed visiting the beautiful Zishan Garden and the Chang Dai-ch’ien Residence, which would have added another layer to our experience.
For travelers planning a visit, these areas are worth considering if you have extra time. The museum grounds offer more than exhibitions, with gardens and historic spaces that provide a quieter side of the destination.
Entering the World of Imperial Collections
We paid NT$250 (approximately USD 7.70 at the time) per person to enter Exhibit I, the museum’s main exhibition building. Visitors can pay by credit card, although audio guide rentals require cash payment.
Before exploring the galleries, we stopped for a quick snack that became an early lunch at Xianjufu Café on the first floor of the main building. It was a convenient break before facing the overwhelming number of treasures waiting inside.
Because the three-story museum contained so many displays, we had to carefully choose which galleries to visit. Trying to see everything in one visit can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors.
Fascinating Exhibits and Unexpected Discoveries
One of the exhibitions available during our visit was “90 Years of Collecting: A Selection of Fine Works of Art Acquired by and Donated to the National Palace Museum.”
Among the many fascinating pieces, one artwork immediately caught my attention: a miniature birdcage decorated with Chinese inscriptions on its tiny columns. The details were incredibly delicate, and the inscriptions were so small that they almost looked impossible to create. Seeing such craftsmanship reminded me of the patience and skill of artists from centuries ago.
Another highlight was the Special Exhibition on the Imperial Collection of Rare Books and Documents. The display included old maps of China and its territories, which naturally caught my attention because I have always been fascinated by maps.
Seeing these historical maps was especially interesting because they offered a glimpse into how territories were represented in different periods. I even found myself looking closely to see which places were included and noticed that no Philippine island appeared as part of China in the maps displayed.
Admiring Art Before Time Ran Out
With so much to see, we moved through the painting and art galleries as efficiently as we could. The museum’s collection is enormous, and every room seemed to reveal another masterpiece.
Although we only had limited time, we still appreciated the beauty of the artifacts, from delicate ceramics to detailed paintings and historical treasures. A single visit can hardly cover everything, which is why many travelers return multiple times to explore different collections.
For first-time visitors, it is helpful to check the museum’s official website before going to see current exhibitions and plan which galleries interest you most.
A Refreshing Walk After the Museum Visit
After completing our museum tour, we exited through the green sidewalk, which turned out to be one of the most relaxing parts of the visit. Instead of simply leaving the building, we walked along a wooden pathway shaded by tree branches.
The quiet walkway provided a refreshing contrast to the grandeur of the exhibits inside. It was a peaceful ending to a day spent surrounded by history and art.
At the entrance, we caught a bus back to Dazhi Station. From there, we continued our Taipei adventure and headed to our next destination, the National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine.
Tips for Visiting the National Palace Museum
Plan enough time. The museum is vast, and spending at least three to four hours allows visitors to appreciate the major galleries.
Check exhibitions before visiting. Temporary exhibitions change regularly, so planning ahead helps maximize your experience.
Visit early or later in the afternoon. The museum is one of Taipei’s most popular attractions, and arriving outside peak hours can provide a more comfortable experience.
Explore beyond the main building. If your schedule allows, include the gardens and historic residences within the museum complex.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to Taiwan’s National Palace Museum was more than a sightseeing stop. It was an encounter with stories preserved through art, documents, and priceless objects that survived generations of change.
While we only explored a portion of what the museum offers, the experience left us with a deeper appreciation of history and craftsmanship. For anyone visiting Taipei, the National Palace Museum is a destination that deserves a place on the itinerary, especially for travelers who enjoy culture, heritage, and stories hidden within centuries-old treasures.
The National Palace Museum is located at:
No.221, Sec. 2, Zhishan Rd., Shilin Dist., Taipei City 11143, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Tel:+886-2-2881-2021, +886-2-66103600E-mail: service01@npm.gov.tw
Website: http://www.npm.gov.tw/en
For photos of our visit at the National Palace Museum, check my Facebook page album.
For a complete list of blog articles on my 2015 Taiwan trip, visit this introductory post.
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