The Discovery Center of Taipei (DCOT; 台北探索馆, inside Taipei City Hall) is a great first stop for visitors to the city wanting to gain an in-depth understanding of Taipei in a brief amount of time. Moving from the first through the fourth floors visitors can explore the city's past, present, and future timelines, while being presented with different themes, special features, and an introduction to Taipei's geography, history, and rich culture.
To enrich the presentation of Taipei's character for local folk and travelers alike, the city government's Department of Information and Tourism (观光传播局) has mapped out an ambitious, ongoing plan to integrate technology and creativity in DCOT's display areas. The first project to be completed is the first-floor entrance area. Some wall columns have been removed, giving the entrance area a more spacious feel, while a multimedia video presentation presents a new image of Taipei.
A large gauze screen (9.5 meters in length and 2.4 meters in height) has been installed on the main wall in the entrance area, accompanied by five 37-inch liquid crystal displays and seven overhead projectors. A video entitled TAIPEing (万象TAIPEing), about four minutes long is shown, and special ground projection immerses visitors in the visuals, best showing off the many sides to the city's character.
The DCOT's Discovery Theater (发现剧场) is also now playing a new film entitled Moments in Taipei (台北好时光). Using a heritage photography shop in the old walled city area as its starting point, the film paints the story of the city over a hundred years and four generations in broad brushstrokes. The production team crafted the work to take full advantage of the Discovery Theater's 360-degree screen, and in just 18 minutes the audience is presented with over 400 clips and more than 200 special effects, delivering the story of Taipei's development with powerful impact.
Before stepping out to explore the city first-hand, why not first step in to the DCOT to experience this city's great riches displayed through exciting new imagery.
New Imagery at The Discovery Center of Taipei - Displaying Taipei's Many Faces
Information
Discovery Center of Taipei 台北探索馆
Hours: Tues~Sun 09:00-17:00
Add: 1, Shifu Rd., Taipei City Hall west entrance, facing Ren’ai Rd. (市府路1号; 市政大楼面对仁爱路西大门)
Tel: 1999(outside Taipei City dial 02-27208889) ext.8630
Website: www.discovery.taipei.gov.tw