Travel
WHERE TO FIND YOUR INNER PEACE IN
Taipei Meditation and yoga galore, epic hikes and world-class vegan cuisine, Taiwan’s capital is a surprisingly accessible escape for anyone in need of a little R&R. By Erin Hale.
J
ust a short hop from Hong Kong, slow-moving Taipei offers a relaxing weekend escape and a chance to practice your Mandarin while munching on street food at its world-famous night markets. When you get tired of grazing on fried treats and are ready to re-up your health, stop by some of Taipei’s most famous meditation centres and outstanding vegan eateries for a restorative cure for that Hong Kong burnout.
Where to recharge Whether you follow the Ayurvedic traditions of yoga, are keen to learn more about Taiwanese philosophy or enjoy the simplicity of Zen Buddhism, Taipei has something for everyone when it comes to meditation, yoga and detox retreats. Kadampa Meditation Center: This meditation centre with views of the Tamsui River in New Taipei City also follows the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and offers by-donation meditation classes in Mandarin and English as well as residential-style retreats if you’re looking to extend your stay in Taipei a few days. No. 2-1, Lane 77, Sec. 1 Hangzhou South Road, Taipei Manjughosha Buddhist Center: Stop by here for by-donation English-language meditation classes targeted at beginners every Tuesday night at 7pm close to Shandao Temple. No. 2-1, Lane 77, Sec. 1 Hangzhou South Road, Taipei
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