Liberty Square in the Zhongzheng District of Taipei, Taiwan, is the cultural and entertainment center of the city as it hosts both the National Theater and the Concert Hall. The twin performing arts venues have been built between 1981 and 1987, and have ever since, become a landmark and a popular tourist attraction. The two buildings attract travelers, particularly through their traditional Chinese architecture and elegant features such as gold roofs and colorful arches. Today, both the National Theater and the Concert Hall are home to the most relevant events in Taipei, whether held by local or international artists. Some of the most prominent names that have performed on these stages include The Kirov Ballet, soprano Jessye Norman, and tenors Placido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, and Jose Carreras. Here’s our complete guide to National Theatre, Taipei, including the best things to do here, and the easiest way to get to the venue.
Things to do
Admire the architecture and surroundings
The first thing that will strike you upon arrival at the National Theater is its spectacular architecture. Although it follows the characteristics of traditional Chinese palaces, there’s something remarkable about the construction. The theater boasts a roof with a hip shape and overturned edges, red columns, and colorful arches, all elegantly designed and decorated with gold detailing.
The building is surrounded by superb and carefully manicured gardens. Take a walk through the square, and enjoy witnessing different youth groups performing various dances.
Take a guided tour
The best way to get a grasp of the theater’s impressive history, but also see its indoor magnificence in all its glory is through a guided tour. You’ll get to examine the stage where international tenors like Placido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti have performed throughout the years, but also take a peek at the professional installations and audio equipment.
The halls of the venue are decorated with art creations and sculptures signed by popular Taiwanese artists. You might spot painter Ching-Jung Chen’s first fresco in Taiwan - Joy to the World, or Mr. Ying-Fong Yang’s sculptures.
Every little detail is thoroughly considered to balance acoustics and offer visitors the best possible experience.
Catch a live performance
It wouldn’t be a complete experience without catching a live performance at the National Theater. Between the theater and the concert hall, you’ll be able to attend live music or dance performances, like an opera or a ballet show, theater plays and lectures.
Things to buy
Souvenirs
Before you go, stop by the gift shop to take a souvenir home. The products available here range from candles, crystal candlesticks, handbags, and polo shirts to classic pencils, magnets, mugs, and notebooks. All items are exclusive merchandise, designed by NTCH and its partners.
Artwork
Art lovers also have a chance to shop from a range of fine creations from local artists. Here you’ll find aboriginal accessories created by Yuli Taki, bamboo products by Bamboola Taiwan, and many more.
Traveller's tips
Accessibility
The National Theater offers a limited number of parking spots for people with disabilities, as well as special discounts for performance tickets. Ramps for wheelchair access and restrooms for people with disabilities are available. The staff is ready to assist, if necessary.
Performance rules
Guests should keep in mind some of the basic rules to follow throughout the performance: video or sound recording and photography are not permitted during a performance; bringing food or drinks inside the main hall is not allowed. If the performance has already started, you’ll be able to enter the hall during the next break, but you won’t miss any part of the show, as there are large screens broadcasting the performance on every floor.
How to get there
By Taipei metro
The National Theater is easily accessible via the Taipei Mass Transit System (MRT). We recommend you get off at the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall station, exit Gate 5, turn left, and then walk to the theater for a few minutes.
By bus
Another public transport option is the bus. We recommend you get off at one of the following stations: Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall Station, Hong Dao Junior High School, Jingfu Gate, or Nanmen Market.
On foot
Since the National Theater is located in the central part of Taipei, it’s within walking distance from most tourist attractions, so we recommend you take a stroll through the city.
By taxi
Taxi is a common means of transportation in Taipei. Some of the most well-known taxi providers are Tripool, Taiwan Taxi, and MTaxi. You can contact Tripool at +886800078787 or book via their website, Taiwan Taxi at +886 2 4058 8888, and MTaxi at +886 2 449 9178. Although the taxi fare is cheaper compared to other countries, it is more affordable to travel via public transit.
By car
If you’d rather rent a car and drive to the National Theater, there’s a spacious parking lot on the premises, including 695 parking spaces and eight parking spaces for people with disabilities (four for each of the venues).
How to book tickets
Visitors can purchase tickets for performances held at the National Theater online, on the venue’s official website. Unsold tickets might also be available at the venue, and can be bought from the on-site ticket booths. Students, seniors, and people with disabilities benefit from certain discounts upon proof of identity.
Tickets can also be obtained from third-party partners, but get sold out fast, as they have different kinds of offers.
Overseas tourists looking to take a guided tour of the venue, can visit for free if they show a valid passport upon entry and make an online reservation in advance. The tour lasts for approximately 60-70 minutes and requires a minimum of 10 people.
National Theatre information
National Theatre
Address: 10048 21-1 Chung-Shan S. Road, Taipei, Taiwan
Official website: National Theatre
Department of tourism: Taiwan
History
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