National Palace Museum

Overview

The National Palace Museum houses nearly 700,000 artifacts spanning 8,000 years of Chinese civilization — one of the largest collections of Chinese art and antiquities in the world.

Highlights

• Jadeite Cabbage: A masterfully carved Qing-dynasty jade sculpture that is the museum's most famous piece, resembling a Chinese cabbage with two hidden insects.
• Meat-Shaped Stone: A jasper stone naturally resembling a piece of braised pork belly, showcasing nature's artistry.
• Calligraphy Collection: Over 1,000 pieces by master calligraphers spanning two millennia.

History

The collection was originally housed in Beijing's Forbidden City. During WWII, the treasures were evacuated across China to protect them from Japanese invasion, eventually arriving in Taiwan in 1949. The current building opened in 1965.

Visitor Tips

• Audio Guide: The English audio guide is excellent and essential for understanding the significance of key pieces.
• Afternoon Visit: Mornings draw tour groups — visit after 2 PM for smaller crowds.
• Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours.