The Keelung River meanders through the core of this district known for its giant Ferris wheel, cultural activities and night market stalls.

Packed with recreational areas and leafy parks, Zhongshan is a scenic destination in central Taipei. The popular hub has a range of malls and museums for families alongside its narrow alleys lined with traditional restaurants.

Buy a ticket to ride the Miramar Ferris Wheel, a great way to enjoy the views of the district and the rest of the city sprawled out beneath you. Come to the wheel at night when it is illuminated in bright colours high above the Taipei skyline.

Get a sense of the local culture by visiting some of the markets. Woman Street has stalls devoted to fashion, while the Qingguang Market has all types of culinary enchantments.

Rummage through items for sale at the Liaoning Night Market, whose main street is lined by bright neon signs above stalls selling fresh fish and other specialties. This market has many fixed restaurants providing spaces to sit and relax, while you sample the roasted duck and traditional tofu.

On a pleasant day, stroll along the banks of Dajia Riverside Park and set up a picnic on a blanket overlooking the Keelung River. Bring your little ones to Lin-Sen Park, which has a playground and picturesque stone garden. Kids will also love the traditional See-Join Puppet Theatre, a restaurant with a stage for hand puppet shows.

Admire the intriguing architecture of the historic Taipei Story House and explore the exhibits in the nearby Taipei Fine Arts Museum. Watch a movie in the classic Taipei Film House that dates back to the 1920s.

Find Zhongshan in the heart of the Taipei municipality. Arrive via bus or metro at one of the many stops scattered across this central region. While in this part of Taipei, make sure to see neighboring areas such as the Songshan District, the Datong District and the Zhongzheng District.