Are you looking to experience Taipei like a local? Beyond the night markets and skyscrapers, Taipei offers a deep “wellness” culture. Here is a 10km run, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) discovery, and a feast for the soul.
📋 Table of Contents
• 👟 Morning Run: 10km from citizenM to Da’an Park
• 🐟 Local Breakfast: Silky Milkfish Porridge at Tainan Shimu Yu
• 📜 Historic Walk: Dihua Street – Where History Meets Herbs
• ⚔️ Unique Experience: Knife Massage at Taipei City Mall
• 🍵 TCM Consultation: Custom Herbs at Shengyuan Pharmacy
• 😋 Dinner Feast: Exploring Hakka Flavors at Master Luo’s
👟 Morning Run: 10km Through Taipei’s “Green Living Rooms” {#morning-run}
I started my day at citizenM Taipei North Gate and headed towards 228 Peace Park, continuing to the ecological pond at Da’an Forest Park.
Why Taipei is a Runner’s Paradise ✨
• Flat & Accessible: Very few elevation changes make it easy to maintain your pace.
• Outdoor Gyms: Parks are packed with free-to-use stretching and strength equipment.
• Safe 24/7: Well-lit parks mean you can exercise safely even after dark.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if it rains, just grab a poncho at a 7-Eleven! Also, despite Taipei’s “hot” reputation, rainy days can feel chilly—bring a long-sleeve shirt.
Passing through Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall at 9:00 AM allowed me to catch the Guard Mounting Ceremony from the very front row—a perk of being an early bird!
🐟 Breakfast: Melting Milkfish Porridge
Post-run, I refueled at Tainan Shimu Yu.
I ordered the Milkfish (虱目魚) Porridge. The fish was incredibly fluffy, paired with a clear, refreshing broth scented with traditional spices.
Don’t miss the Sautéed Eggplant—the balance of oil and savory aromatics is pure perfection.
📜 Dihua Street: A Step Back in Time {#dihuajie}
Next, I headed to Dihua Street, Taipei’s oldest wholesale district.
Built in the 19th century, the Baroque-style architecture creates a nostalgic atmosphere. It’s the go-to spot for medicinal herbs, dried goods, and fabrics.
Using ChatGPT to translate, I managed to buy a “Lu Bao” (滷包)—a traditional spice pouch used for Beef Noodle Soup—so I can recreate the flavor at home!
⚔️ Knife Massage: The Sharpest Way to Relax {#massage}
At Taipei City Mall (Shop 97), I tried something bold: Knife Therapy.
It looks terrifying, but the dull blades apply precise pressure that fingers just can’t reach. It felt surprisingly amazing and relieved all my muscle tension.
🍵 Shengyuan Pharmacy: Your Custom Herbal Remedy {#kanpo}
For a more professional approach, I visited Shengyuan Pharmacy (生元薬局).
They have Japanese and English-speaking staff. I discussed my issues with “swelling and cold sensitivity,” and they prepared a powdered herbal formula tailored just for me.
😋 Dinner: The Bold World of Hakka Cuisine {#dinner}
To end the day, I dined at Luo Shi Fu (駱師父) to experience Hakka Cuisine.
The Hakka people have a rich history of migration, leading to a food culture focused on preserved, hearty, and flavorful dishes.
• Must-try: Feng Rou (Braised Pork Belly), Water Lily Stir-fry, and chewy Rice Noodles.
🌙 Closing Thoughts
Taipei is a city that heals. By combining physical activity, traditional wisdom, and soulful food, you can finish your trip feeling better than when you arrived.
Goodnight from Taipei!
