Combine sightseeing at one of Taipei’s biggest tourist attractions and sleep under the world’s largest Chinese classical style roof for $120 – $165 US a night. Perched atop Yuanshan Mountain, the hotel lends a magnificent view across Taipei Basin and the city of Taipei. The opulent hotel is a symbol of ancient Chinese history and culture. Situated just a few stops from Shilin night market, the Grand Hotel is one of the most recognized landmarks in Taiwan.
The hotel, also known as the Dragon Palace, claims to have over 200,000 images of dragons both inside and outside its walls. There are eight floors of guest rooms, each floor representing a different Chinese dynasty.
MRT Red Line Yuanshan Station. Address: #1, Chung Shan N. Rd., Sec.4. 886-02-2886-8888
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I definitely go against the grain on this one. I think it’s hideous, a blight on the landscape. What it stands for, namely Chinese imperialism, turns me off too. It’s the Chiangs’ baby.
.-= Patrick Cowsill´s last blog ..Sports Illustrated Confused over Geography? =-.
Hey Patrick,
In terms of sightseeing and the novelty of sleeping in a traditional Chinese palace, you still can’t beat the novelty factor. Most of the readers who come back for this series are people looking for unusual accommodations. This one certainly fits the bill for Taipei, even if most people here don’t like what it stands for.
It certainly is an imposing structure — checking out the rooms now on the site you linked to, Carrie. Reading the reviews, it sounds as if the rooms could use some updating, but everybody recommends the hotel based on its staff, etc!
I studied Mandarin in a Taiwan school for one summer back in 1988. Our boarding school was across the highway from The Grand Hotel. And I remember a night market close to the school also.
.-= jen Laceda´s last blog ..Chocolates Make the World Go ‘Round =-.
Hi Jen,
I didn’t know you had been to Taiwan! I think I know which boarding school you are talking about as well. That’s a decent location for a school with the night market so close by.