Over the past few years, we have worked really hard in starting our web and graphic design business, and making it grow. The CryoDragon Team finally took some time off of our usual busy schedules from April 19th – 29th to go on our first overseas trip to Taipei, Taiwan!
We have broken up our adventure into day-by-day posts.
Day 3: Taipei 101 Adventures
Our third day was solely focused on Taipei 101, the world’s tallest skyscraper from 2004-2010 until it was dethroned by Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. However, after receiving platinum LEED certification ratings, Taipei 101 is the tallest and largest green building in the entire world. Being located in an earthquake-prone area and subject to yearly typhoons, Taipei 101 has multiple features that enable it to withstand such natural phenomena despite its height of 509.2 m. One of its main features is a 660-tonne tuned mass damper, a pendulum that sways to offset any movements of the building caused by earthquakes or strong gusts.
During the first part of the day, we went to the Taipei 101 Observatory on the 88th-91st floor. We were able to get some stunning views of the entire city from above, and it was a blessing to have clear skies and zero smog.
On the 88th floor, we could see the tuned mass damper, which was HUGE! There was also a coral museum, and a picture station for those born in the Year of the Pig!
After we finished with the observatory tour of Taipei 101, we went downstairs. The lower floors of Taipei 101 are actually a huge mall with tons of shops and restaurants. Their most famous restaurant is Din Tai Fung, potentially the world’s most famous chain restaurant specializing in steamed dumplings. We waited about an hour to get in, and we did not regret the wait! We ordered many different types of dumplings, steamed dumplings, and noodles to try out!
Later on in the evening, we met with family on the 85th floor of Taipei 101’s Shin Yeh Restaurant, which offers traditional Taiwanese cuisine… with a view! Unfortunately it was pretty cloudy and rainy, so we could not take any scenic pictures in the evening. However, we were highly impressed by the food that was offered there, and the variety we could choose from!
