Ximending Shopping District

The car pickup was faster than I expected; I booked it the night before, and the paperwork only took 10 minutes to complete and I was ready to go.

Although the set meal portions were small, the quality was very high, and the staff provided excellent service. The hot pot ingredients ordered separately were also of very high quality, making it good value for money. The restaurant was spacious and not cramped.

The high-speed rail + hotel package is excellent value, and the hotel itself is fantastic! Location: I initially thought it was only a 4-minute walk, but it's actually very close and easy to find. Atmosphere: Elegant Japanese style, bright lobby, pleasant fragrance, plenty of seating, coffee and bottled water available, and convenient luggage lockers. Rooms: Small but comfortable, toiletries easy to use, and a good bed. Breakfast: Available for an extra NT$600, a Japanese-style breakfast; the mango smoothie, beef noodles, and handmade tofu were all good. Many foreigners stay here. Be patient while waiting for the elevator as there are many floors.

It saves time because you don't have to buy tickets. I also bought an EasyCard (which can also be used on the MRT) to ride the bus, and it was a relief to be able to get on and off without worrying about the fare. I'm not sure if I used it enough to make it worthwhile, but it's probably a good idea for those who go to the furthest stations on the MRT and get on and off frequently. The first hurdle was figuring out where to pick it up, but I got it from a station attendant at a glass-enclosed, circular information counter-like place next to one of the ticket gates at Taipei Main Station. It was basically a matter of showing the voucher and saying "one day free pass, please."

I always buy from KK Day when they have discount coupons, which is cheaper than buying in person. The Ximen branch is very close to the MRT station. I love their fried chicken and chicken cutlet, but the prices are a bit high, so I buy them at KK Day to get the discount.

They are very dedicated and professional, and it's also great for kids to experience. The teaching, guidance, and interactive methods used by the staff make it very relaxing, and the tapping is very stress-relieving. The finished products are beautiful and the atmosphere is wonderful. I highly recommend coming here for hands-on activities.