✧ Series Note – Taiwanderlust 2019 ✧
A year has passed since my first trip to Taiwan. I’ve grown, but my heart still belongs here. This series is a continuation of a story I wasn’t done telling—a return to the places, flavors, and feelings that made me fall in love with this island in the first place.
Travel Dates: Feb. 14–17, 2019

A year after my first trip, Taiwan called me back—and I answered. But this time felt different. The thrill of firsts was replaced by the comfort of familiarity, the kind that makes every bite, train ride, and street corner feel like a reunion with a place that once stole a piece of your heart. This is Day 1 of my return journey—a continuation of a story I wasn’t done telling.

I was super excited to be back in Taiwan after a year! The moment I landed at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, everything felt familiar yet thrilling. After a smooth immigration process, I picked up my pre-booked WiFi router, withdrew cash from the ATM, and grabbed a delicious chicken sandwich at Subway—because why not start the trip with a solid bite?

I then hopped on the UBus to Taoyuan High-Speed Rail Station, paying NT$20 with my EasyCard. The ride was comfy and efficient, taking about 20 minutes. It wasn’t until later that I realized another option was taking the Airport MRT to Taoyuan Station and walking to the HSR—just one of those little travel notes for next time.

The transport system in Taiwan never fails to impress me. Transferring between modes of transport—from bus to HSR to MRT—was seamless and tourist-friendly.

At Taoyuan HSR Station, I bought a ticket to Taipei Main Station for NT$160. The train left right on time and arrived in Taipei in just 20 minutes. That brief yet efficient ride gave me more time to explore the city. Taiwan’s HSR service is definitely one of the best I’ve tried.

From Taipei Main Station, I transferred to the MRT Blue/Bannan Line and headed to Ximen Station. My accommodation was a 10-minute walk from there. I paid NT$100 for an early check-in, dropped off my luggage, and hit the streets to start exploring.

🏠 Sleep Box Hostel – My Home for Four Days

Sleep Box Hostel in Ximending became my cozy base for the next four days. Clean, peaceful, and ideal for budget travelers, it offered shared bathrooms, a kitchen, and capsule-style rooms. The staff was friendly and helpful, and essentials like WiFi, convenience stores, cafés, banks, and restaurants were just around the corner. For shoestring travelers like me, it was a gem.

🇹🇼 Afternoon Visits—History and Heights

My first stop was the iconic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a staple for any Taipei trip. From Ximen Station (Green Line), I took the MRT directly to Chiang Kai-shek Station—super convenient.

As soon as I arrived, the grandeur of the place struck me. The massive white structure with its blue-tiled roof stood proudly, surrounded by tranquil gardens and traditional architecture. The peaceful ambiance made it easy to pause and reflect—a perfect place to slow down and soak in a bit of Taiwan’s history.

Next on my list: Taipei 101. This legendary skyscraper never gets old. From Taipei Main Station, I took the Red Line MRT, and after a short walk, I was back at one of the tallest buildings in the world.

I redeemed my KKday voucher for the observatory deck at the 5th floor of Taipei 101 Mall. Unfortunately, the view was partly foggy, but still, it felt amazing to be up there again—seeing the city from above, even in mist, is surreal.

Afterward, I had a comforting bowl of beef soup and rice for NT$120 at the Taipei 101 food court, followed by a quick grocery run at Jayson. It’s always nice to browse the local snacks and goodies!

🌙 Evening Cravings – Raohe Street Night Market

Even though I wasn’t exactly hungry, my taste buds were definitely craving Taipei’s legendary night market scene. I skipped Raohe Night Market during my first trip, so I was determined to experience it this time.

From Taipei 101, I hopped on the Green Line MRT to Songshan Station, which drops you off right by the market. Before diving into the food stalls, I stopped by the beautiful Ciyou Temple, which glowed warmly under the night sky. Its detailed carvings and peaceful atmosphere added a spiritual touch to my night.

Then came the moment I’d been waiting for: Raohe’s pepper buns! The night market buzzed with life, delicious smells, and locals mingling with tourists. From stinky tofu to milk tea, the variety was endless—and I couldn’t wait to try as much as I could.

🌧️ Back to the Hostel – 13 Degrees of Chill

By the end of the night, the chilly 13-degree weather reminded me I needed rest. I headed back to Sleep Box Hostel, grateful for the cozy bed waiting for me after a full, food-filled, joy-packed first day in Taipei.

As I settled into the warmth of my capsule bed at Sleep Box Hostel, I couldn’t help but feel a quiet kind of joy. Day 1 reminded me of how much I’ve changed in a year—and how Taiwan, in its vibrant energy and gentle rhythm, stayed just the way I remembered.

I’ve grown, but my heart still belongs here.

“Some places don’t just stay in your memories—they call you back.”
— Unknown