【圓山大飯店】Grand Hotel in Taipei, Taiwan
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If you’ve ever seen Taipei’s skyline, chances are you’ve spotted The Grand Hotel — that giant red palace perched on the hill, with its golden roof gleaming like something out of a movie.
But here’s the thing… The Grand Hotel isn’t just a spot for VIPs to sleep. It’s filled with history, architecture, and even a little mystery rolled into one.
In this guide, I’ll cover: the fascinating history (from Japanese shrines to Chiang Kai-shek’s dream project), things to do inside, even if you don’t book a room (including the secret passage you can’t miss 👀), how to get there + easy travel hacks, and booking options (so you can decide if you should visit or stay!)
I didn’t stay here (yet!) — but I explored with friends, dined at its hidden speakeasy, and even checked out the secret passage. So this post is part history lesson, part travel inspo, and part “you-should-totally-book-this-spot.”
about the Grand Hotel
This iconic landmark has a fascinating backstory that began long before it officially opened in 1952 under the commission of Chiang Kai-Shek. Believe it or not, the site was originally home to a Shinto shrine called the Taiwan Grand Shrine, built in the early 1900s during Japanese colonization.
The shrine, dedicated to Prince Yoshihisa after his death in 1895, was one of the highest-ranking Shinto shrines in Taiwan. Initially planned for Yuanshan Park (today’s Taipei Expo Park), it was instead built on higher ground overlooking the city — a symbolic show of Japan’s colonial power.
Construction wrapped between 1900–1901, and by 1944, it had earned “Grand Shrine” status. Sadly, just before its official opening ceremony, a plane crashed into the complex, damaging it beyond repair.
With the end of WWII in 1945 and Japan’s retreat, the shrine materials were dismantled and repurposed elsewhere in Taiwan.
outside the secret tunnel
Fast forward to 1949: after the Republic of China lost the civil war and relocated to Taiwan, Chiang Kai-Shek saw a big problem — Taipei lacked 5-star hotels to host visiting foreign celebrities from around the world!
His wife, Soong Mei-ling (Madame Chiang), suggested the site of the old shrine on Yuanshan Mountain. The location had history, prestige, and stunning city views — perfect for showcasing how beautiful Taiwan is to the world.
Taiwanese architect, Yang Cho-cheng was tasked with bringing the vision to life. Blending palace-style grandeur with symbolic Chinese motifs, he created a masterpiece that would become an icon of Taipei.
The hotel first opened in May 1952 and continued expanding with additions like restaurants, lounges, and a pool.
By 1968, it was ranked by Fortune magazine as one of the world’s top ten luxury hotels, and in 1973, the Grand Hotel as we know it was finally completed.
Today, with over 500 rooms, fine dining, shops, and panoramic views, the Grand Hotel is still one of Taipei’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s not just a hotel — it’s living history mixed with timeless Chinese design.
things to do
So, what can you actually do here if you’re not staying the night? Tons.
Wander the lobby
Those red columns and golden ceilings will make you stop in awe.
Climb the grand staircase
The most iconic photo spot in the hotel.
Cocktails at Meet Bar
Hidden speakeasy inside the hotel (reservations are required!).
Discover the secret passage
If you dine at Meet Bar, you can access Chiang Kai-shek’s VIP escape tunnel.
Sunset views
The hotel’s rooftop and dragon columns are prime photo spots. But you can also admire the view from outside the hotel!
Explore every historical corner
Displays, photos, and artifacts give you a free mini-museum vibe.
Stay overnight
If you want the full experience of the Grand Hotel, book a night or two.
💡PRO TIP
Book a table at Meet Bar — it’s the only way to explore the tunnel. Trust me, it’s worth it.
getting there
You can take the Red Line to Jiantan Station (Exit 1) → get a taxi for about 5 minute ride, or you can walk up the hill for about 15 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take the Red Line to Yuanshan Station (Exit 1) — this only operates on weekends
BUS
Get off at the Grand Hotel bus stop and walk uphill.
TAXI / UBER
This is your best bet if coming from places like the National Palace Museum (like we did!) It’s just easier and more convenient, with less to worry about.
💳 Grab an EasyCard to ride the MRT or buses
🚗 Want comfort? Book a private driver for the day through Daytrip
tours you might like
what's nearby
Make it a full day out! Pair your visit with:
🌙 饒河夜市 Raohe Night Market
— one of the oldest night markets in Taipei, famous for black pepper buns.
🎨 松山文創園區 Songshan Cultural & Creative Park
— a former tobacco factory turned art, design, and café hub.
🍸 覓到 Meet Bar (inside Grand Hotel)
— hidden speakeasy where you can sip cocktails and sneak into the Secret Passage.
🍢 寧夏夜市 Ningxia Night Market
— small but packed with local snacks.
🏛️ 國立故宮博物院 National Palace Museum
— one of the world’s top museums, showcasing Chinese art and history treasures.
make your trip smoother
know before you go!
| WHAT TO KNOW | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| ADMISSION | Free to enter the lobby; bars/restaurants have a minimum spend |
| BEST TIME TO VISIT | Late afternoon for the sunset view! |
| PERFECT FOR | Architecture lovers. History buffs. Photographers. |
| DRESS CODE | Casual but respectful |
| ESTIMATED DURATION | 1 - 2 hours |
| WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY | Yes, elevators available |
FAQ
Q: Is the Grand Hotel Taipei worth visiting?
A: 100% yes. It’s packed with history and makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. I wouldn’t say it’s a must for a first-time trip, but definitely add it to your list after seeing Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall — the two really tie together.
Q: Can you go inside the Grand Hotel Taipei without staying?
A: Yep! The lobby and public areas are free to explore. Just keep in mind that if you want to eat, drink, or shop inside, you’ll need to spend — some spots even have minimums.
Q: How do you book the Grand Hotel Taipei secret passage tour?
A: As of August 2025, you can’t book it online. BUT if you make a reservation at Meet Bar, the tour of the Secret Passage is included. Definitely worth it for the history nerd inside you.
Q: What’s the history of the Grand Hotel Taipei?
A: Glad you asked! I wrote up a full timeline in my About the Grand Hotel section.
Q: Can you stay at the Grand Hotel Taipei?
A: Absolutely! It’s still a fully operating hotel with 500 rooms. You can book it directly here via Booking.com if you want to treat yourself to the experience.
final thoughts
Visiting The Grand Hotel Taipei was the perfect way to end a busy day exploring Taipei.
Watching the sun set behind the mountains with the city skyline in front, exploring Chiang Kai-Shek’s secret passage that was recently reopened to the public, sipping cocktails at a hidden speakeasy inside The Grand Hotel — this place surprised me at every corner.
If you’re short on time: an evening visit + Meet Bar reservation will give you the highlights.
If you want the complete royal treatment: book a stay and soak up the views day and night.
Either way — you’ll leave with epic photos, a little history in your pocket, and maybe even a new favorite cocktail spot. 😏🍸
visit info
check out my Taiwan travel vlog!
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11302024 16:49
Step into the storybook world of the Grand Hotel Taipei, one of Taiwan’s most iconic landmarks. From its rich history as a Shinto shrine site to its palace-style architecture and hidden secret passage, this post covers everything you need to know — whether you’re planning a day visit, curious about its past, or wondering if it’s worth booking a stay.