Text / Compiled and reported by the Editorial Department of MOOK Travel Life Network
"Lucy," directed by renowned French filmmaker Luc Besson and starring Scarlett Johansson, was filmed in Taiwan last October. Recently released globally, the film has sparked a wave of enthusiasm and drawn many Taiwanese movie fans to theaters. The movie features numerous scenes shot in Taiwan, with familiar local spots such as the Gongguan shopping district, Taoyuan International Airport, and Dihua Street becoming some of the most unique filming locations in the eyes of the internationally acclaimed director.Dive into the five main filming locations from "Lucy" and invite Taiwanese audiences to explore the diverse charm of Taipei together. While watching the movie in theaters, be sure to spot familiar city corners on the big screen, and visit the actual filming sites to experience a different side of Taipei.
Filming Locations of "Lucy":
● Location 1: Taipei 101
One of the must-see spots that French director Luc Besson couldn't stop praising during his visit to Taiwan is definitely Taipei 101. As Taipei’s most iconic landmark, both daytime and nighttime views of the 101 building alternate throughout the film, showcasing the bustling and vibrant atmosphere of the Xinyi District, along with its ever-changing scenery across day and night.Visitors are recommended to enjoy English-style afternoon tea at the casual bar restaurant on the 36th floor of Taipei 101, and admire the stunning cityscape from high above.
Taipei 101 is a major landmark in the Xinyi District shopping area. From the ticket counter on the fifth floor, take the world’s fastest elevator (as recognized by the Guinness World Records) up to the 89th-floor observation deck to enjoy panoramic views of Taipei City. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Hotel Recommendations
W Taipei — 5-star
W Taipei is located in Taipei’s Xinyi District, close to Breeze Center, Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Department Store, Taipei 101, and the National Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. The Taipei World Trade Center and Songshan Cultural and Creative Park are also nearby.
Reference image of W Taipei Taipei. (Image provided by Hotels.com)
● Location 2: Taipei Railway Workshop
The scene where the female protagonist hijacks a taxi driver, set in a highly industrial environment, was filmed at the Taipei Railway Workshop. Previously used by the Taiwan Railways Administration for train maintenance and modifications, the workshop houses the famous staff bathhouse—the first municipal historical site designated by Taipei City. It's a favorite spot among photography enthusiasts who come here to capture the vintage charm of 1930s architecture.Besides immersing themselves in Taiwan’s nostalgic past, visitors can also stroll to the nearby Ice Monster for a bowl of classic Taiwanese mango shaved ice, or head to the adjacent National Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the sun.
The Taipei Railway Workshop is one of the units under the Rolling Stock Department of the Taiwan Railways Administration and serves as a primary base for train maintenance and modification. (Image source / urstaipei)
Hotel Recommendations
Madison Taipei — 4-star
Madison Taipei is located in Da’an, Taipei, near Cathay General Hospital, Taipei 101, and the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The National Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall and the Taipei World Trade Center are also nearby.
Reference image of Madison Taipei. (Image provided by Hotels.com)
● Location 3: Din Tai Fung
When it comes to must-try Taiwanese cuisine, Din Tai Fung is definitely at the top of the list. In particular, Din Tai Fung’s xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) are internationally renowned and have earned a Michelin Guide one-star rating. Director Luc Besson insisted on visiting the restaurant during his trip to Taiwan. His admiration for it was so great that he not only featured Din Tai Fung in the movie but even claimed that Taipei serves the best xiaolongbao in the world. Visitors are recommended to go to the original branch in Yongkang Street to watch skilled chefs handcraft delicate and juicy xiaolongbao. Moreover,Yongkang Street is a famous food street in Taipei, where travelers can sample a variety of popular local dishes such as Yongkang beef noodles, Taro King, and Tianjin scallion pancakes!
Din Tai Fung’s high-quality and delicious meals are beloved by tourists from around the world. (Image provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
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