Explore the Grand Hotel Taipei: History, Secrets, and Must-See Highlights(圓山飯店）

If you are curious and want to learn more about this beautiful landmark in Taipei, this post is for you.

Two iconic landmarks will catch your attention during your visit to Taipei City. Besides the towering Taipei 101, the striking red and gold Grand Hotel stands out with its palace-like elegance.

Located on a hillside with sweeping views of Taipei City, the Grand Hotel (圓山飯店) is more than just a place to stay—it’s a landmark steeped in history and culture.

I have not personally stayed at the Grand Hotel, but over the years, I’ve dined at the restaurants in the hotel multiple times. And I am always fascinated by its magnificent architecture and the rich history every time I’m there.

At the lobby of Grand Hotel during the Christmas holidays.

History

The Grand Hotel was built in 1952 during Chiang Kai-shek’s presidency (you might already have the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall on your itinerary). The main purpose of this hotel was to serve as a grand venue for hosting foreign dignitaries.

Over the years, it has welcomed world leaders, royalty, and celebrities. The Grand Hall on the second floor highlights the hotel’s history through a detailed timeline and displays photographs of famous people who have stayed there.

Architecture

The Grand Hotel Taipei’s hilltop location makes it stand out from afar. Its bright red pillars and golden roof catch your eye, even from a distance. Whether you’re in the city or on the outskirts, the hotel’s grand design and elevated position make it a landmark you can’t miss.

The building is modeled after traditional Chinese palaces, with vibrant red columns, carved dragon motifs, and sweeping eaves.

Close-up of a traditional temple's ornate roof in Taipei, showcasing intricate architectural design.

The lobby is so spacious and filled with traditional charm. You’ll be surrounded by red columns, red carpet, polished marble floors, and a ceiling design of colorful, intricate patterns.

The Secret Tunnels

Beneath the hotel lies a network of secret tunnels, designed as emergency escape routes for high-profile guests during politically tense times. Today, these tunnels are open to visitors through guided tours.

If you’re curious about the Grand Hotel’s rich history and hidden secrets, you can book a guided tour to experience it firsthand. The price of the tour is NT$250 for an adult and NT$100 for a child age between 6 and 12. Here is the link to sign up for the tour.

Staying at the Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel is a 5-star hotel. Rooms and suites are decorated with elegant furnishings, incorporating rich colors and classic designs inspired by Chinese culture. Because of its location up in the hills, many rooms offer stunning views of the Taipei City.

Dining At The Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel has several top-tier restaurants. The dim sum at Golden Dragon Restaurant and the beef noodle soup at Grand Garden are particularly popular. Dining here isn’t just about the food—it’s also about immersing yourself in the hotel’s ambiance.

I’ve tried almost all the restaurants at the Grand Hotel, and each one has been a great experience. On Christmas Eve, I enjoyed a delicious buffet at The Grand Steak—a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday. I’ve also gone to the café for afternoon tea with friends, where we had tasty snacks and a relaxing time.

Getting To The Grand Hotel

To reach the Grand Hotel Taipei by MRT, take the Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) and get off at Yuanshan Station (R14). Once there, exit at Exit 1 and head to the bus stop nearby. You can take a free shuttle bus service provided by the Grand Hotel, which conveniently runs between Yuanshan Station and the hotel. The ride takes only a few minutes.

Alternatively, you can take a short taxi ride or enjoy a brisk 10–15 minute uphill walk to the hotel.