Your Ultimate Guide To Taiwan’s National Palace Museum

One of the most interesting places to visit in Taiwan is the Taiwan National Palace Museum, or NPM. This place holds significance in Taiwan’s rich history, as it houses a permanent collection of around 700,000 artifacts and treasures from the early Song Dynasty in China. Booked tickets to NPM? Here’s a guide on what to expect on your visit to this historical attraction in Taipei!

History of Taiwan National Palace Museum

It was in the early 20th century when cultural treasures were transferred to Taiwan, as it faced destruction due to political upheaval. Hundreds of thousands of artifacts from archival documents to books, painting, bronzeware, calligraphy, ceramics, jade carvings, and many others are in this main repository, being preserved and used in various educational resources. 

At present, it stands in a building established in the 1960s with influences of traditional Chinese architectural elements. People come here to admire its exhibits and collections, and also learn about Chinese cultural heritage. In 2015, the Southern Branch was opened in Chiayi which focuses on Asian art and culture. 

What to See Inside NPM

Want to know what to expect in the NPM? Here are some of the must-see spots inside Taiwan’s museum:

Exhibits 

There are exhibits running simultaneously at the exhibition areas of NPM. These are mostly about calligraphy, painting, decorative arts, and other exhibits related to the antiquities of the National Palace Museum. Some are  permanent, some running for a limited time. You can check their official website for a view of their exhibition calendar, or read about their past exhibits. Aside from that, the National Palace Museum also holds seasonal events for guests to attend. Tip: Don’t forget to see the Jadeite Cabbage, one of the most famous jade carvings in the whole world!

Collections

Three floors of the museum are dedicated to the Chinese artifacts collected that span across dynasties, from the Neolithic Period to the Republican Period. From each artifact, visitors can learn a lot about Chinese civilization, as it is being preserved for the future generations to learn from. 

Children’s Gallery

There’s a special space made for kids at the National Palace Museum. This children’s gallery consists of a theater, DIY art activities, and exhibits that’ll educate and entertain them at once. Through these kid-friendly displays, they can learn to appreciate art and history in a creative way. 

Library

In the library is where you can find rare books and documents of the Qing Dynasty and beyond. It’s been open since 1966, catering not only to scholars and researchers, but for anyone who wants to learn about history. Aside from reading, one can also browse the internet, photocopy, or do image disc browsing in the library. 

Zhishan Garden

Aside from the museum itself, the outdoor space called Zhishan Garden is still reminiscent of history. This 1.88-hectare of garden reflects the style of Sung and Ming dynasties. Admire the zigzag bridge, pond, pavilion, and the Archway, for a scenic afternoon stroll. 

Chang Dai-chi’en Residence

Also called “Abode of Maya,” this residence is home to the prolific Chinese artist. It’s a two-storey building where you can learn about Chang’s life through a glimpse of his home. This spot is open only for those with reservations. 

Restaurants

There are several food spots in the museum too! Enjoy Taiwanese desserts at Xianju Fu Cafe, light meals at San Xitang Space,  or traditional dishes at Silks Palace to satisfy your hunger. 

Gift Shop and Bookstore

You can shop for souvenirs, publications, and gifts at the souvenir stores found at the B1 and 2nd floor of the main building. Get your own piece of Taiwanese culture before leaving the museum!

Other Facilities

Make use of these helpful services on your visit to the National Palace Museum:

• • Locker Services
  • Babies and Kids Facilities
  • Medical services
  • Postal services

Guided Tours

To better understand the history and culture through the displayed artifacts in the museum, guided tours are recommended.

Audio guide

This type of tour is best for adults who want to learn about the museum. A handheld audio device can be rented for NTD 150 at the audio tour information desk. The audio is translated into different languages like English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Sign Language, and many more. 

Kids’ multimedia guide

Kids also get a guided tour in the form of a multimedia guide, which can be rented for NTD 100. It’s narrated by an Emperor Qianlong with a 10-year-old boy named Art who joins the kids into a journey of exploring the museum made in a way that’s understandable for kids aged 7 to 12. 

Tips and Guides

Maximize your visit to Taiwan National Palace Museum with these tips:

• • Rent an audio guide and listen to the narration for an enhanced museum experience. 
  • The best time to visit is later in the day to avoid the crowds. 
  • Book your tickets ahead as the museum can get busy since it’s one of the most popular attractions in Taipei.
  • Bulky items and large bags are not allowed inside the museum, but lockers are available to store your things.
  • There are occasional free admission days in the museum. This is usually during New Year (January 1), Lantern Festival, International Museum Day on May 18, World Tourism Day on September 27, and National Day on October 10.

How to get here

By bus

Take the Taipei Sightseeing bus Blue Route which makes a stop in famous attractions in Taipei, including the National Palace Museum. From Taipei Main Station M4 Exit, take the bus that departs every 40 minutes. 

From Zhongzheng Road, you can take the bus # R30, 815, 304, 300, 255, S19, S18, or M1 to the National Palace Museum for approximately 15 minutes. 

By train

Take the THSR and get off at Taipei Station. Transfer to Shilin Station, and take the City Bus Red 30 and get off at the National Palace Museum. 

Details

Address: No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan
Operating Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; Closed on Mondays
Admission fee: NTD 350 for adults; NTD 320 for groups of 10 or more, FREE for visitors aged 17 and below, as well as PWD with accompanying guardian
Website: https://www.npm.gov.tw/index.aspx 

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