National Palace Museum Taipei
Home to one of the world's largest collections of Chinese imperial art and artifacts, spanning 8,000 years of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
National Palace Museum Taipei
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to one of the world's largest collections of Chinese imperial art and artifacts, spanning 8,000 years of history.
"A world-class museum housing an unparalleled collection of Chinese imperial artifacts, offering a deep dive into history and culture."
🎯 Rent an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with an audio guide for detailed explanations of exhibits. Available in multiple languages.
🚶 Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful gardens and terraces outside for a peaceful stroll and great photo ops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jadeite Cabbage
Gallery 302
A meticulously carved jade sculpture resembling a cabbage, a symbol of purity and fertility.
Meat Shaped Stone
Gallery 302
A natural stone formation that remarkably resembles a braised pork belly, a quirky and popular exhibit.
Bronze Vessels
Various Galleries
Exquisite ancient bronze artifacts from the Shang and Zhou dynasties, showcasing intricate craftsmanship.
Imperial Ceramics
Various Galleries
A stunning collection of delicate porcelain and ceramics, reflecting centuries of Chinese artistic evolution.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Allocate Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rent an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with an audio guide for detailed explanations of exhibits. Available in multiple languages.
🚶 Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful gardens and terraces outside for a peaceful stroll and great photo ops.
🎟️ Consider a Taipei Pass
If visiting multiple attractions, a Taipei Fun Pass can offer great value and include museum entry.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
This museum is vast; dedicate at least 3-4 hours to truly appreciate the collection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rent an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with an audio guide for detailed explanations of exhibits. Available in multiple languages.
🚶 Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful gardens and terraces outside for a peaceful stroll and great photo ops.
🎟️ Consider a Taipei Pass
If visiting multiple attractions, a Taipei Fun Pass can offer great value and include museum entry.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
This museum is vast; dedicate at least 3-4 hours to truly appreciate the collection.
🚌 Public Transport
Take the MRT to Shilin Station and then transfer to bus R30 for direct access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Palace Museum Taipei for its vast and significant collection of Chinese imperial artifacts, highlighting the Jadeite Cabbage and Meat Shaped Stone as must-sees. The museum's grand architecture and serene gardens are also frequently mentioned as positive aspects, offering a beautiful setting for a cultural immersion. While generally well-organized, some popular exhibits can become crowded, and a full appreciation requires ample time.
"This is palace you must visit. Now it is a museum. It is three floors. The gift shop is beautiful and huge. You definitely will find something you will like to buy. I paid 350$ in the automat. Once you finish with inside do not forget to go outside at the terrace. There are some beautiful buildings there as well and a garden. Catch the train and the the R30bus. It is 7 stops. Be aware the bus will be packed. It is a bit tiring but you can catch a taxi as well. There are plenty of them."
Dimitris Apollonas Poseidonas Venetis
"The National Palace Museum in Taiwan is a must-visit. The grounds are very open and lush with greenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The ticket price was fair, especially considering the vast collection of stunning national artifacts on display. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, making for an unforgettable experience."
Bernard Zhang
"During our cruise boat excursion to Taipei, we took the opportunity to visit the renowned National Palace Museum, a must-see destination for history and art lovers. This world-class museum houses one of the most extensive collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, offering a deep dive into thousands of years of Chinese history and culture.
As we arrived, we were immediately impressed by the museum’s grand architecture, which blends traditional Chinese design with a modern touch. Surrounded by lush green hills, the setting itself was serene and inviting. Inside, the museum’s vast collection showcased exquisite treasures, including ancient jade carvings, delicate porcelain, intricate calligraphy, and beautifully preserved paintings. One of the highlights was the famous Jadeite Cabbage, a small yet incredibly detailed jade sculpture resembling a piece of cabbage with hidden insects—an astonishing display of craftsmanship.
The museum’s layout made it easy to explore at our own pace, with informative displays and multimedia guides enhancing the experience. Each exhibit told a fascinating story of China’s dynastic history, offering insight into the lives of emperors, scholars, and artisans.
After our visit, we took time to enjoy the museum’s surrounding gardens and nearby teahouses, which provided a peaceful way to reflect on everything we had seen.
For anyone visiting Taipei, I highly recommend adding the National Palace Museum to your itinerary. It’s an extraordinary journey through history that offers a deeper appreciation for Chinese culture and artistry—an unforgettable experience on our cruise excursion."
Sigmon Whitener
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take the MRT to Shilin Station (Red Line) and then transfer to bus R30, which stops directly at the museum. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, the MRT and bus combination is quite straightforward. Be aware that the R30 bus can get crowded, especially during peak hours.
Absolutely. Taxis are plentiful and offer a more direct route, though they will be more expensive than public transport.
By taxi, it can take around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Using public transport (MRT and bus) will likely take longer, potentially 50-60 minutes.
The closest MRT station is Shilin Station, but it requires a bus transfer to reach the museum. There is no direct MRT line to the museum itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday through Sunday. It is closed on Mondays.
Admission fees are generally around NT$350 for adults. Check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to save time and potentially secure your entry, especially during busy periods.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and children. It's advisable to check the museum's official website or inquire at the ticket counter.
Yes, the National Palace Museum is often included in popular city passes like the Taipei Fun Pass, which can offer significant savings if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend at least 3-4 hours to see the main highlights. Some art enthusiasts may dedicate a full day.
Key highlights include the Jadeite Cabbage, the Meat Shaped Stone, ancient bronze vessels, and exquisite imperial ceramics.
Yes, audio guides are available for rent in multiple languages and are highly recommended for a richer understanding of the exhibits.
Guided tours are available and can be a great way to efficiently see the highlights and gain historical context.
While the collection is historically significant, younger children might find it less engaging than other attractions. However, exhibits like the Jadeite Cabbage and Meat Shaped Stone can capture their attention.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most galleries, but without flash. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions. Always check for signage.
The museum's grand architecture, the surrounding gardens, and the terrace offer excellent photo opportunities. Inside, the unique exhibits like the Jadeite Cabbage are popular subjects.
Popular exhibits like the Jadeite Cabbage can get crowded, making it challenging to get unobstructed photos. Visiting during off-peak hours can help.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your family prefers more interactive experiences, the Taipei Zoo might be a better alternative, especially if you have a package that includes both.
🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to see iconic pieces like the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat Shaped Stone, which are masterpieces of craftsmanship and natural wonder.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Treasures of the National Palace Museum
Among the most celebrated items are the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat Shaped Stone. The Jadeite Cabbage, carved from a single piece of jade, is renowned for its lifelike detail and the symbolic insects hidden within its leaves. The Meat Shaped Stone, a natural stone that remarkably resembles a piece of braised pork belly, is a testament to nature's artistry and a quirky favorite among visitors.
Beyond the main galleries, the museum grounds themselves are worth exploring. The Zhishan Garden offers a tranquil escape with its traditional Chinese landscaping, pavilions, and water features. The museum's terraces also provide panoramic views of the surrounding lush hills, making it a beautiful setting for reflection after immersing yourself in centuries of art and culture.
Navigating the National Palace Museum
To make the most of your time, consider renting an audio guide. These guides provide detailed commentary on the exhibits, offering historical context and insights that might otherwise be missed. They are available in multiple languages and can be a more flexible option than a guided tour, allowing you to linger at pieces that particularly capture your interest.
When it comes to getting around, the museum is well-organized with clear signage. However, be prepared for crowds, especially around popular exhibits like the Jadeite Cabbage. Visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon can help you avoid the peak tour bus times.
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