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Taipei is the political, economic, and cultural centre of Taiwan. Located in the northern part of the island, Taipei is one of the most vibrant cities in Asia. It is the heart of Taiwan's commerce, government and academia. Taipei is renowned worldwide for its blend of modern and traditional architecture including the Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, and the ancient Longshan Temple. The city is famous for its lively night markets, hot springs, and vibrant street-food scene.
According to the Household Registration Office, as of July 2018, Taipei had a population of 2,704,810. The city is known for its diversity, with a large number of foreign residents and tourists. As of 2017, over 40,000 foreign workers were recorded to be living in Taipei, making it a multicultural city. In terms of religion, Taipei is diverse with Buddhism and Taoism being the most practiced religions. The city also houses many Christians, Muslims, and Hindus. The official language is Mandarin, but English is widely spoken in business and tourism sectors. The Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world, is a symbol of Taipei's technological achievements and aspirations. The city's Beitou district is famous for its hot springs, a legacy of Japan's colonial rule. In terms of governance, Taipei is divided into 12 administrative districts, each with its own district office and council.
Taipei city is governed by the Taipei City Government, headed by the Mayor and Vice Mayor. The Mayor is elected by the citizens of Taipei every four years. The city is divided into several districts, each with its own district office and council. The city government is responsible for the administration of Taipei, including its urban planning, public transportation, social welfare, sanitation, and public utilities.
Taipei is the economic powerhouse of Taiwan, contributing significantly to the nation's GDP. It is a global hub for technology, particularly in the semiconductor and electronics industries. Taipei is also a major player in the global finance sector with many international banks and financial institutions having their regional headquarters in the city. Additionally, the city has a thriving tourism industry, attracting millions of visitors each year to its cultural landmarks and night markets.
Taipei boasts a well-developed infrastructure, including an efficient public transportation system comprising of high-speed rail, metro, and bus networks. The city is home to the Taipei Songshan Airport and is well-connected to other parts of Taiwan and major global cities. The city's government has implemented various smart city initiatives focusing on improving the city's infrastructure and quality of life for its residents. This includes the development of a city-wide free Wi-Fi network, a smart public transportation system, and IoT-enabled public services.