7 Hidden Gems in Taipei, Taiwan for Singaporeans to Explore

Taipei is a city that never ceases to surprise. Indeed, it is a metropolis where centuries-old traditions blend effortlessly with modern innovation. Meanwhile, the unexpected is always waiting around the corner. Beyond its famed night markets and gleaming skyscrapers lies a treasure trove of offbeat attractions. Each one has its own quirky charm and story to tell. In Taipei, you might find yourself dining on repurposed porcelain thrones, embarking on a bus ride straight out of a fairytale, or even exploring secret tunnels beneath a historic landmark.

Every hidden gem is a testament to the city’s creative spirit. Moreover, these lesser-known sites invite you to step off the beaten track and experience the playful, inventive heart of this incredible destination. Whether you’re in the mood for a cheeky culinary adventure or a dive into underground history, these seven unconventional spots prove that Taipei’s allure is anything but ordinary.

Also read: 36 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Taipei

1. Modern Toilet Restaurant

Address: 33 Section 2, Zhongxiao West Road, Datong District, Taipei, 103, Taiwan

Fancy a dining experience that’s truly flush with originality? At the Modern Toilet Restaurant, you won’t just enjoy your meal – you’ll experience it from a completely new perspective. Forget boring chairs; instead, you’re invited to sit on repurposed porcelain thrones, with your food served in a mini potty or a tiny bathtub. Shower-heads, sink-topped tables, and even a beverage delivered in a converted urinal add to the cheeky ambience. Despite the off-colour décor, the menu remains delightfully untainted by its theme. It boasts hearty hot pot, sumptuous curries, and a drool-worthy dessert selection.

2. Jimmy’s Moon Bus

Address: 100號 Section 5, Xinyi Rd, Taipei, 110, Taiwan

All aboard for a journey that defies gravity – well, almost. Inspired by the beloved picture book When the Moon Forgot, Jimmy’s Moon Bus offers an artful escape from the everyday. Perched on a pedestal and complete with a rooftop statue of a boy in a cat costume clutching a smiling moon, this bus isn’t about getting you from A to B. Instead, it transports you into a surreal, storybook realm. Step inside to find a friendly bear at the helm, soft melancholic tunes, and whimsical art that blurs the line between dream and reality.

3. Miniatures Museum of Taiwan

Address: 110 Section 1, Jianguo N Rd, Taipei, 10489, Taiwan

Don’t be fooled by its unassuming entrance. Hidden behind a nondescript door in an office block lies Asia’s first museum of miniatures. Founded by a husband-and-wife duo with a passion for all things tiny, this museum is a celebration of small wonders from around the world. Wander through intricately crafted 1:12 scale models of a British pub and even Buckingham Palace. Then, be sure to marvel at the world’s smallest working television. It’s a pocket-sized paradise, where every detail has been meticulously rendered.

4. Puppetry Art Center of Taipei

Address: 99 Section 5, Civic Blvd, Taipei, 105, Taiwan

Step into a world where art and tradition dance in delightful harmony. The Puppetry Art Center of Taipei offers a deep dive into Taiwan’s rich heritage of puppetry, from hand-carved glove puppets to intricate shadow figures. This immersive museum not only charts the evolution of puppetry across Asia but also invites you to get hands-on with the art form. Consequently, you can discover the stories behind each puppet and perhaps even try your hand at a few moves. It’s a playful journey into a time-honoured craft.

5. Treasure Hill

Address: No. 2, Alley 14, Lane 230, Section 3, Tingzhou Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei, 100, Taiwan

Once a rough-and-ready shantytown, Treasure Hill has been reborn as a vibrant artist village. In fact, it might have stepped right out of a Hayao Miyazaki Ghibli film. Its maze-like alleyways burst with eye-catching murals, quirky boutique shops, and giant fortune-cookie sculptures. This perfect blend of urban chaos and creative serenity offers an unforgettable visual feast. Although only a few families still call it home, the area buzzes with the energy of local and international artists. Indeed, it’s a genuine haven for anyone seeking an unconventional atmosphere.

6. Grand Hotel Tunnel

Address: No. 1, Section 4, Zhongshan North Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei, 10461, Taiwan

Beneath the opulent Grand Hotel’s gilded façade lies a secret world. Originally designed as an air-raid shelter for dignitaries during turbulent times, the Grand Hotel Tunnel now offers a glimpse into a bygone era. Here, you can traverse narrow, claustrophobic passageways and even slide down a 70-metre-long escape route. This passage was once considered one of the longest in the world. While guided tours (conducted in Chinese, so you may need a translator) are available at set times, this underground adventure is a thrilling detour from the typical tourist trail.

7. Pure Love Diner Bar

Address: No. 9, Lane 104, Section 3, Tingzhou Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei, 100, Taiwan

For a taste of retro kitsch with a modern twist, Pure Love Diner Bar is the place to be. This nostalgic hotspot, reminiscent of old-school “grandpa shops,” dazzles with neon lights, plush banquettes, and a disco ball that gets the party started. The menu is a hearty nod to Taiwanese classics – think braised pork over rice, oyster soup, and deep-fried noodles drenched in satay sauce. Furthermore, if you fancy a bit of extra spice, pop in on a Wednesday night to catch the cheeky pole dance performances. Ultimately, it’s a celebration of all that is delightfully decadent.

It’s Time to Explore Taipei!

Exploring Taipei’s hidden gems is a reminder that travel is about far more than just ticking off well-worn attractions. Instead, it’s about embracing the unexpected, venturing into the unknown, and delighting in experiences that defy convention. From dining on repurposed porcelain at a cheeky toilet-themed restaurant to journeying on a bus that whisks you into a fairytale, each stop offers a fresh perspective on this dynamic city.

These offbeat attractions not only highlight Taipei’s playful, inventive spirit but also encourage you to leave your comfort zone behind. Immerse yourself in its eclectic culture, and you’ll soon discover that every corner brims with surprises. So, whether you’re a daring foodie, an art lover, or simply an adventurer at heart, pack your sense of wonder. Prepare for a journey that is as cheeky, unconventional, and utterly unforgettable as Taipei itself.

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