Situated on the northern coast of Taiwan, Taipei City is the capital of the Republic of China. With a population of nearly 3 million people, Taipei is the political, economic and cultural center of Taiwan.

Taipei was founded in the 18th century and has been the center of government for China during various periods. Following World War II, Chiang Kai-shek lead his nationalist forces to Taiwan after suffering defeat at the hands of the communists in China’s civil war. Today, Taiwan has a democratically elected national government.

To reach this viewpoint where I took this picture, we had to hike some pretty steep steps. It was a good workout, and worth it. Taipei is a beautiful, clean and stunningly beautiful city.