Taipei
The capital city of the Republic of China (commonly referred to as Taiwan), Taipei City is widely regarded as the political, economic, and cultural center of Taiwan. Pronounced in Mandarin as Táiběi, the city is located in the northern part of the island in a basin between the Yangming Mountains and the Central Mountains. Consisting of 12 distinct districts, each with its own style and charm, Taipei is amazing modern city with an innumerable amount of historical attractions, numerous acclaimed night markets, shopping districts, as well as cultural amenities like modern coffee houses, museums, and fantastic nightlife. With a population of about 2.6 million residents, its population is eclipsed by New Taipei City (which surrounds Taipei), however Taipei's identity is closely linked with New Taipei as well as its other neighbor Keelung (基隆市) and are regarded as one large metropolitan area with a population in excess of 7 million. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Historically, Taipei has always been a place where cultures collide and coalesce. The earliest archaeological evidence of human presence in Taipei was found in the Yuanshan Prehistoric Site (B.C. 5000) and the Zhishanyan Prehistoric Site (B.C. 1000-200). Later, the Ketagalan group belonging to the Pingpu ("Plains") aboriginal tribes began to thrive in areas such as Tamsui, Beitou and Bali. The Spanish arrived in Tamsui from Keelung and built Fort Provintia. Shortly after, the Dutch invaded south Taiwan and fought for control of the island with Ming Dynasty general Koxinga, who was then stationed in Tainan. After defeating Koxinga’s forces, the Qing government assumed total control of Taiwan. Southern Chinese immigrants from Quanzhou, Zhangzhou, and Canton began to arrive in Bangka, then Taiwan’s largest port, in search of arable land. They fought constantly with the Pingpu tribe as well as among themselves for territory. These early immigrants built houses and temples that reflected a number of regional architectural styles. Construction of Taipei City was completed in the late 19th century during Emperor Guangxu’s reign. Taiwan became a Japanese colony in 1895, after China lost the First Sino-Japanese War. Taiwan remained a Japanese colony until the end of WWII, when the mainland Chinese Nationalist government took over. The influx of Nationalist troops and personnel brought with them mainland Chinese culture to Taiwanese society. Source: www.taipeitravel.net
The capital city of the Republic of China (commonly referred to as Taiwan), Taipei City is widely regarded as the political, economic, and cultural center of Taiwan. Pronounced in Mandarin as Táiběi, the city is located in the northern part of the island in a basin between the Yangming Mountains and the Central Mountains. Consisting of 12 distinct districts, each with its own style and charm, Taipei is amazing modern city with an innumerable amount of historical attractions, numerous acclaimed night markets, shopping districts, as well as cultural amenities like modern coffee houses, museums, and fantastic nightlife. With a population of about 2.6 million residents, its population is eclipsed by New Taipei City (which surrounds Taipei), however Taipei's identity is closely linked with New Taipei as well as its other neighbor Keelung (基隆市) and are regarded as one large metropolitan area with a population in excess of 7 million. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Historically, Taipei has always been a place where cultures collide and coalesce. The earliest archaeological evidence of human presence in Taipei was found in the Yuanshan Prehistoric Site (B.C. 5000) and the Zhishanyan Prehistoric Site (B.C. 1000-200). Later, the Ketagalan group belonging to the Pingpu ("Plains") aboriginal tribes began to thrive in areas such as Tamsui, Beitou and Bali. The Spanish arrived in Tamsui from Keelung and built Fort Provintia. Shortly after, the Dutch invaded south Taiwan and fought for control of the island with Ming Dynasty general Koxinga, who was then stationed in Tainan. After defeating Koxinga’s forces, the Qing government assumed total control of Taiwan. Southern Chinese immigrants from Quanzhou, Zhangzhou, and Canton began to arrive in Bangka, then Taiwan’s largest port, in search of arable land. They fought constantly with the Pingpu tribe as well as among themselves for territory. These early immigrants built houses and temples that reflected a number of regional architectural styles. Construction of Taipei City was completed in the late 19th century during Emperor Guangxu’s reign. Taiwan became a Japanese colony in 1895, after China lost the First Sino-Japanese War. Taiwan remained a Japanese colony until the end of WWII, when the mainland Chinese Nationalist government took over. The influx of Nationalist troops and personnel brought with them mainland Chinese culture to Taiwanese society. Source: www.taipeitravel.net
Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is an engineering marvel and the first building of its kind in the world. Spanning 101 stories above the ground at 508 metres, the building was designed as a symbol of technology's evolution fused with Asian tradition. The building features many pan-Chinese and Asian elements mixed with a postmodern style, and is designed to withstand typhoons and earthquakes common in Taiwan. Besides the tower, the base of the building houses a multi-level shopping mall, food court, various restaurants and stores. The double-deck elevators installed in Taipei 101 set a record in 2004 by traveling 60.6 km/h, lifting visitors to the observation deck at the top in only 37 seconds. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Taipei 101 is an engineering marvel and the first building of its kind in the world. Spanning 101 stories above the ground at 508 metres, the building was designed as a symbol of technology's evolution fused with Asian tradition. The building features many pan-Chinese and Asian elements mixed with a postmodern style, and is designed to withstand typhoons and earthquakes common in Taiwan. Besides the tower, the base of the building houses a multi-level shopping mall, food court, various restaurants and stores. The double-deck elevators installed in Taipei 101 set a record in 2004 by traveling 60.6 km/h, lifting visitors to the observation deck at the top in only 37 seconds. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Dalongdong Bao'an Temple
Unesco World Heritage
Originally constructed in 1742 as a wooden shrine, the 3'an Temple is a Taiwanese folk religion temple. Throughout Taiwan's history, the temple was renovated and reconstructed numerous times, leading to a 2003 induction into UNESCO for cultural heritage conservation. Dedicated to the Taoist saint Baosheng Dadi (大稻埕) the 900 SQ METRE large temple faces south, in line with Feng-Shui practices, and houses the front, main, and rear halls, along with the east and west halls. The buildings also run from tallest to shortest in that order, in observance of Confucian principles. The temple also houses a drum tower. Important architectural elements around the temple grounds include stone carvings, stone lions, dragon columns, stone bamboo windows, and wood, stone, and clay carvings. Nearby the doors of the temple are large images of gods protecting the gates. Large coloured murals also are displayed throughout the grounds. Bao'an Temple is especially well-known for the Baosheng Cultural Festival (held on the 14th day of the 3rd moon as that is the eve of the Baosheng Emperor’s birthday), where participants and locals march in a parade to worship agricultural gods and perform cultural activities such as the renowned fire-walking ritual. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Unesco World Heritage
Originally constructed in 1742 as a wooden shrine, the 3'an Temple is a Taiwanese folk religion temple. Throughout Taiwan's history, the temple was renovated and reconstructed numerous times, leading to a 2003 induction into UNESCO for cultural heritage conservation. Dedicated to the Taoist saint Baosheng Dadi (大稻埕) the 900 SQ METRE large temple faces south, in line with Feng-Shui practices, and houses the front, main, and rear halls, along with the east and west halls. The buildings also run from tallest to shortest in that order, in observance of Confucian principles. The temple also houses a drum tower. Important architectural elements around the temple grounds include stone carvings, stone lions, dragon columns, stone bamboo windows, and wood, stone, and clay carvings. Nearby the doors of the temple are large images of gods protecting the gates. Large coloured murals also are displayed throughout the grounds. Bao'an Temple is especially well-known for the Baosheng Cultural Festival (held on the 14th day of the 3rd moon as that is the eve of the Baosheng Emperor’s birthday), where participants and locals march in a parade to worship agricultural gods and perform cultural activities such as the renowned fire-walking ritual. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Taipei Confucius Temple
The Confucius Temple, dedicated to Confucius the Great Mentor, is a legendary figure revered for centuries as China’s greatest educator, the omniscient of all knowledge of his time, the ultimate sage and foremost instructor. Among the Temple’s must-sees are a pair of cylindrical “drums of books” (藏經筒) on the rooftop of Ta Cheng Palace, which are replicas of those built by Qin-dynasty intellectuals to keep their books from being destroyed by Qin Shi Huangdi, China’s first emperor, in a “war on academia” engineered for his totalitarian regime. Disguised as chimneys, those duplicated drums reflected the admirable passion for letters among the ancient Chinese. Source: http://www.travel.taipei
The Confucius Temple, dedicated to Confucius the Great Mentor, is a legendary figure revered for centuries as China’s greatest educator, the omniscient of all knowledge of his time, the ultimate sage and foremost instructor. Among the Temple’s must-sees are a pair of cylindrical “drums of books” (藏經筒) on the rooftop of Ta Cheng Palace, which are replicas of those built by Qin-dynasty intellectuals to keep their books from being destroyed by Qin Shi Huangdi, China’s first emperor, in a “war on academia” engineered for his totalitarian regime. Disguised as chimneys, those duplicated drums reflected the admirable passion for letters among the ancient Chinese. Source: http://www.travel.taipei
Longshan Temple
The most well known temple in Taiwan, the Mengjia Longshan Temple was built in 1738 by settlers from Fujian as a gathering place for Chinese settlers. Located in the old village part of Taipei, Wanhua District, this temple has stood the test of time and lasted through several natural disasters and wars. During World War II, the temple was badly damaged by American bombers during the Raid on Taipei after an accusation the Japanese were hiding arms inside the temple. Since the construction of the temple, Taipei residents have continuously renovated and improved the temple and the surrounding grounds, with the temple coming to represent the pride of Taiwanese temples and worship houses, worshipping a mixture of Buddhist, Taoist, and deities like Mazu. Longshan Temple is one of largest and oldest temples in Taiwan. Entrance is free, but donations to maintain the upkeep of the temple are accepted. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
The most well known temple in Taiwan, the Mengjia Longshan Temple was built in 1738 by settlers from Fujian as a gathering place for Chinese settlers. Located in the old village part of Taipei, Wanhua District, this temple has stood the test of time and lasted through several natural disasters and wars. During World War II, the temple was badly damaged by American bombers during the Raid on Taipei after an accusation the Japanese were hiding arms inside the temple. Since the construction of the temple, Taipei residents have continuously renovated and improved the temple and the surrounding grounds, with the temple coming to represent the pride of Taiwanese temples and worship houses, worshipping a mixture of Buddhist, Taoist, and deities like Mazu. Longshan Temple is one of largest and oldest temples in Taiwan. Entrance is free, but donations to maintain the upkeep of the temple are accepted. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Bangka [Wanhua] Qingshan Temple
Taipei’s Bangka Qingshan Temple is one of several Qingshan temples built in honor of Zhang Gun, the Three Kingdoms general serving the Duke Sun Quan. Due to his capable administration of Hui’an in Quanzhou, Fujian, Zhang was deified as "Qingshan Wang" or "Ling’an Zunwang." Since that time, Qingshan Wang has been worshipped as a god with the power to dispel disease and a divine authority of justice, rewarding virtue and punishing evil. He is revered along with the Eight Justice deities, including General Jia and General Suo. The Bangka Qingshan Temple was built over a century ago. The temple is arranged in a three-courtyard layout, with buildings made of wood and stone. The temple has been well maintained over the years and continues to greet visitors with its abundant charms, including a beautiful octagonal plafond. The stone columns and buttresses are carved of stone from the old Yuanshan Shinto Shrine. The statue of Qingshan Wang is especially eye-catching—literally: the god’s eyes seem to follow you no matter where you stand! Source: http://www.travel.taipei
Taipei’s Bangka Qingshan Temple is one of several Qingshan temples built in honor of Zhang Gun, the Three Kingdoms general serving the Duke Sun Quan. Due to his capable administration of Hui’an in Quanzhou, Fujian, Zhang was deified as "Qingshan Wang" or "Ling’an Zunwang." Since that time, Qingshan Wang has been worshipped as a god with the power to dispel disease and a divine authority of justice, rewarding virtue and punishing evil. He is revered along with the Eight Justice deities, including General Jia and General Suo. The Bangka Qingshan Temple was built over a century ago. The temple is arranged in a three-courtyard layout, with buildings made of wood and stone. The temple has been well maintained over the years and continues to greet visitors with its abundant charms, including a beautiful octagonal plafond. The stone columns and buttresses are carved of stone from the old Yuanshan Shinto Shrine. The statue of Qingshan Wang is especially eye-catching—literally: the god’s eyes seem to follow you no matter where you stand! Source: http://www.travel.taipei
Bangka [Wanhua] Qingshui Temple
The principle deity at this temple is Qingshui Zushi, also known as Zushi Gong, Black Faced Zushi, Penglai Zushih, and Luobi ("Drooping Nose") Zushi. According to legend, Qingshui Zushi was worshipping at Qingshui Temple when a ghost blackened his face with a great fire, thus earning the god his nickname. As for the "drooping nose," it is said that the god's nose would droop downward when a nearby disaster was impending, warning the residents of impending danger. Source: http://www.travel.taipei
The principle deity at this temple is Qingshui Zushi, also known as Zushi Gong, Black Faced Zushi, Penglai Zushih, and Luobi ("Drooping Nose") Zushi. According to legend, Qingshui Zushi was worshipping at Qingshui Temple when a ghost blackened his face with a great fire, thus earning the god his nickname. As for the "drooping nose," it is said that the god's nose would droop downward when a nearby disaster was impending, warning the residents of impending danger. Source: http://www.travel.taipei
Bopiliao
The Heritage and Culture Education Center of Taipei is located in the historic Bopiliao area of Wanhua District near Longshan Temple. This area has preserved much of its Qing period roots, with arched brick arcades, carved pattern window lattices, and other traces of the city’s early elegance. Old-style shop-houses (with stores in front and living areas in back) also remain from that period, opening a window to the early development of the Bangka (Wanhua) area, lending a unique historical and architectural flavor to the area. Visitors can learn more about the history of the area at the Heritage and Culture Education Center. The center has different theme displays and hosts special exhibits on Bopiliao as well as educational activities. Source: http://www.travel.taipei
The Heritage and Culture Education Center of Taipei is located in the historic Bopiliao area of Wanhua District near Longshan Temple. This area has preserved much of its Qing period roots, with arched brick arcades, carved pattern window lattices, and other traces of the city’s early elegance. Old-style shop-houses (with stores in front and living areas in back) also remain from that period, opening a window to the early development of the Bangka (Wanhua) area, lending a unique historical and architectural flavor to the area. Visitors can learn more about the history of the area at the Heritage and Culture Education Center. The center has different theme displays and hosts special exhibits on Bopiliao as well as educational activities. Source: http://www.travel.taipei
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
The most prominent historical landmark in Taiwan, the CKS Memorial Hall was erected in honor and memory of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, the former President of the Republic of China, and was opened in 1980 as part of a park and gathering area. The name of the square is officially Liberty Square as seen above the front gate, however the name change was politically motivated and most people in practice still refer to the entire complex as CKS Memorial Hall. The octagon-shaped white building rises 76 meters and is covered with blue tiles and red accents, echoing the flag of the Republic of China. The eight sides represent the Chinese cultural symbolism of the number eight which is traditionally associated with fortune and wealth. The two sets of 89 steps represent Chiang's age of death and lead up to main hall housing a large bronze statue of Chiang protected by military personnel which change hourly. The characters behind Chiang's statue read "Ethics", "Democracy", and "Science", and the inscriptions on the side read "The purpose of life is to improve the general life of humanity" and "The meaning of life is to create and sustain subsequent lives in the universe". Besides the main hall, the large complex includes the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park, National Concert Hall and the National Theater. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
The most prominent historical landmark in Taiwan, the CKS Memorial Hall was erected in honor and memory of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, the former President of the Republic of China, and was opened in 1980 as part of a park and gathering area. The name of the square is officially Liberty Square as seen above the front gate, however the name change was politically motivated and most people in practice still refer to the entire complex as CKS Memorial Hall. The octagon-shaped white building rises 76 meters and is covered with blue tiles and red accents, echoing the flag of the Republic of China. The eight sides represent the Chinese cultural symbolism of the number eight which is traditionally associated with fortune and wealth. The two sets of 89 steps represent Chiang's age of death and lead up to main hall housing a large bronze statue of Chiang protected by military personnel which change hourly. The characters behind Chiang's statue read "Ethics", "Democracy", and "Science", and the inscriptions on the side read "The purpose of life is to improve the general life of humanity" and "The meaning of life is to create and sustain subsequent lives in the universe". Besides the main hall, the large complex includes the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park, National Concert Hall and the National Theater. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
A memorial to the founder of modern China, Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the National Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall was built in 1972 as a tribute to the founder of the Republic of China. The hall contains displays of Sun's accomplishments from the revolution during and after the fall of the Qing Dynasty, and today is a meeting ground for various social, educational, and cultural activities. Although the hall's main purpose was intended to display historical relics of Sun's life and the Xinhai Revolution, it later was opened to performances and exhibitions. The hall's construction began in 1965 by President Chiang Kai-shek, selecting architect Wang Ta-hung to design the hall while focusing on emphasizing pan-Chinese architectural characteristics (common during that era for all new construction). The park surrounding the hall is named Zhongshan Park, as the most well-known and popular Chinese name for Dr. Sun is Sun Zhongshan, and includes gardens, decorative historical walls, and an exhibition and performance area surrounding Lake Cui, or Emerald Pond. Blue Line 5 to Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Station, sometimes labeled as "S.Y.S. Memorial Hall" Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
A memorial to the founder of modern China, Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the National Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall was built in 1972 as a tribute to the founder of the Republic of China. The hall contains displays of Sun's accomplishments from the revolution during and after the fall of the Qing Dynasty, and today is a meeting ground for various social, educational, and cultural activities. Although the hall's main purpose was intended to display historical relics of Sun's life and the Xinhai Revolution, it later was opened to performances and exhibitions. The hall's construction began in 1965 by President Chiang Kai-shek, selecting architect Wang Ta-hung to design the hall while focusing on emphasizing pan-Chinese architectural characteristics (common during that era for all new construction). The park surrounding the hall is named Zhongshan Park, as the most well-known and popular Chinese name for Dr. Sun is Sun Zhongshan, and includes gardens, decorative historical walls, and an exhibition and performance area surrounding Lake Cui, or Emerald Pond. Blue Line 5 to Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Station, sometimes labeled as "S.Y.S. Memorial Hall" Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
National Palace Museum
Originally founded within the walls of the Beijing Forbidden City in 1925, the present-day National Palace Museum moved to Taipei's Shilin District following the Republic of China government relocation in 1949 with an official opening for the public in 1965. Over 600,000 of the most precious artefacts within the collection were moved to Taiwan to prevent their desecration during and after the Chinese Civil War. The museum is currently celebrating its 90TH Anniversary. A fully modern museum, the Palace Museum also participates in Taiwan's National Digital Archives Program, using the latest in digital technology to digitally preserve its ancient artefacts as well as high technology to improve the museum experience for visitors. Spread over 4 floors and 2 exhibition halls, the museum's exhibits continuously rotate, as only a small percentage of the museum's collection can be displayed at a given time to prevent wear. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Originally founded within the walls of the Beijing Forbidden City in 1925, the present-day National Palace Museum moved to Taipei's Shilin District following the Republic of China government relocation in 1949 with an official opening for the public in 1965. Over 600,000 of the most precious artefacts within the collection were moved to Taiwan to prevent their desecration during and after the Chinese Civil War. The museum is currently celebrating its 90TH Anniversary. A fully modern museum, the Palace Museum also participates in Taiwan's National Digital Archives Program, using the latest in digital technology to digitally preserve its ancient artefacts as well as high technology to improve the museum experience for visitors. Spread over 4 floors and 2 exhibition halls, the museum's exhibits continuously rotate, as only a small percentage of the museum's collection can be displayed at a given time to prevent wear. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Raohe Street Night Market
Night Market is a must visit destination! The epitome of a traditional Taiwanese night market, this 600 metre path along Raohe Street in Songshan District is packed with fun and interesting night foods and snacks, quaint shops and stalls, and carnival games with prizes. At the eastern end of the night market outside Songshan Station is the Ciyou Temple (五分埔), a hotspot for finding deeply discounted fashion in an abundance of shops located within a maze of alleys. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Night Market is a must visit destination! The epitome of a traditional Taiwanese night market, this 600 metre path along Raohe Street in Songshan District is packed with fun and interesting night foods and snacks, quaint shops and stalls, and carnival games with prizes. At the eastern end of the night market outside Songshan Station is the Ciyou Temple (五分埔), a hotspot for finding deeply discounted fashion in an abundance of shops located within a maze of alleys. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Songshan Ciyou Temple
Built in 1753, Ciyou Temple is dedicated to the deity Black Faced Mazu. The temple is square, rises six floors and has an impressive main hall. The roof ridge is elaborately adorned with twin dragons facing three immortals representing wealth, happiness and longevity—a motif symbolizing divine protection. The stone lions at the main hall were carved in 1803. Unusually, the male lion is depicted with an open mouth and the female with mouth closed. Source: www.travel.taipei
Built in 1753, Ciyou Temple is dedicated to the deity Black Faced Mazu. The temple is square, rises six floors and has an impressive main hall. The roof ridge is elaborately adorned with twin dragons facing three immortals representing wealth, happiness and longevity—a motif symbolizing divine protection. The stone lions at the main hall were carved in 1803. Unusually, the male lion is depicted with an open mouth and the female with mouth closed. Source: www.travel.taipei
Dihua Street
is the most popular grocery market for shopping Chinese New Year's goods. It is located in Datong District of Taipei City, Taiwan, with a total length of 800 meters. On ordinary days, Dihua is a relatively quiet street. However, the street will be lively and crowded few weeks before Chinese Lunar New Year. Built in the 1850s, Dihua Street was the major trading center for Chinese herbs and medicines, dried goods, fabrics, as well as teas since it is near the Dadaocheng port. The street has became a market place for Chinese New Year's groceries since 1996; there are various stalls selling bamboo or wooden crafts, candies from Asia, Chinese medicines and herbs, Chinese and Japanese snacks, crops, dried foods, fabrics, incenses, New Year decorations, spices, and teas. Candies, dried squids, and nuts are popular items in the market. The vendors usually display their goods in huge bags; some bags are even taller than five feet high. Visitors may also see piles of foods and candies on tables which look like little mountains. The vendors use megaphones or simply yell out aloud to attract people’s attention. It is quite interesting to hear the lively shouts of vendors and to enjoy the New Year atmosphere. Some vendors will even hand out free samples for visitors to push more sales. Besides the samplings and the lively scene, the historical architectures in traditional Fujian style, Baroque style, western style, as well as red lanterns and other New Year decorations have also made Dihua Street a popular tourist attraction. Source: www.travelking.com.tw
is the most popular grocery market for shopping Chinese New Year's goods. It is located in Datong District of Taipei City, Taiwan, with a total length of 800 meters. On ordinary days, Dihua is a relatively quiet street. However, the street will be lively and crowded few weeks before Chinese Lunar New Year. Built in the 1850s, Dihua Street was the major trading center for Chinese herbs and medicines, dried goods, fabrics, as well as teas since it is near the Dadaocheng port. The street has became a market place for Chinese New Year's groceries since 1996; there are various stalls selling bamboo or wooden crafts, candies from Asia, Chinese medicines and herbs, Chinese and Japanese snacks, crops, dried foods, fabrics, incenses, New Year decorations, spices, and teas. Candies, dried squids, and nuts are popular items in the market. The vendors usually display their goods in huge bags; some bags are even taller than five feet high. Visitors may also see piles of foods and candies on tables which look like little mountains. The vendors use megaphones or simply yell out aloud to attract people’s attention. It is quite interesting to hear the lively shouts of vendors and to enjoy the New Year atmosphere. Some vendors will even hand out free samples for visitors to push more sales. Besides the samplings and the lively scene, the historical architectures in traditional Fujian style, Baroque style, western style, as well as red lanterns and other New Year decorations have also made Dihua Street a popular tourist attraction. Source: www.travelking.com.tw
Xiahai City God Temple
The century-old Xiahai Chenghuang Temple is host to statues of the City God, his wife, the Chinese Cupid, and 600 other deities. The temple has the highest statue density in Taiwan. Tradition has it that if the statue of Chinese Cupid is standing, he is eagerer to find a good marriage for people. The temple therefore attracts a lot of singles for a significant other Couples visit this temple in search of a smooth going. Constructed on Dihua Street in 1856, the Xia-Hai City God Temple occupies about 150 square meters. Although this temple doesn’t have a majestic façade, it nevertheless attracts many believers. Every year, on the day of greeting the City God, which is on the 13th day of the 5th lunar month, not only the temple is bustling with visitors but it is also the scene of major local activities. Furthermore, the temple is closely connected to the local development of Dadaocheng. Source: www.travel.taipei
The century-old Xiahai Chenghuang Temple is host to statues of the City God, his wife, the Chinese Cupid, and 600 other deities. The temple has the highest statue density in Taiwan. Tradition has it that if the statue of Chinese Cupid is standing, he is eagerer to find a good marriage for people. The temple therefore attracts a lot of singles for a significant other Couples visit this temple in search of a smooth going. Constructed on Dihua Street in 1856, the Xia-Hai City God Temple occupies about 150 square meters. Although this temple doesn’t have a majestic façade, it nevertheless attracts many believers. Every year, on the day of greeting the City God, which is on the 13th day of the 5th lunar month, not only the temple is bustling with visitors but it is also the scene of major local activities. Furthermore, the temple is closely connected to the local development of Dadaocheng. Source: www.travel.taipei
Ningxia Night Market
The night market culture traces back very long ago. It’s now a part of everyday life in Taiwan. Ningxia Night Market is one of the oldest night markets in Taipei it also has a long history behind it. It was a park back in the Japanese colonial period, a round shaped park with trees and benches. With food stands started to gather inside the park, the food culture here started to prosper. When the World War 1 broke out, the park was rebuilt into water storage and the food related activities ceased since then. After the war the prosperity continued and the market grew larger. The night market later went through fire, urban renewal and started to go downhill. The old night market is replaced by the Ningxia Night Market we know now. The Taipei City Government put in a lot of effort into rebuilding the night market. The location is organized and designed for market use with grease plumbing and water source system. Back in action, Ningxia night Market has become one of the representative night markets in Taipei, even nicknamed Taipei’s stomach. The night market gathered over 20 food stands and restaurants, all over 50 years old providing delicious snacks and savories. From oyster omelet, stinky tofu, taro cake, tofu pudding and many other traditional Taiwan style dish waiting for you to discover. Source: www.travelking.com
The night market culture traces back very long ago. It’s now a part of everyday life in Taiwan. Ningxia Night Market is one of the oldest night markets in Taipei it also has a long history behind it. It was a park back in the Japanese colonial period, a round shaped park with trees and benches. With food stands started to gather inside the park, the food culture here started to prosper. When the World War 1 broke out, the park was rebuilt into water storage and the food related activities ceased since then. After the war the prosperity continued and the market grew larger. The night market later went through fire, urban renewal and started to go downhill. The old night market is replaced by the Ningxia Night Market we know now. The Taipei City Government put in a lot of effort into rebuilding the night market. The location is organized and designed for market use with grease plumbing and water source system. Back in action, Ningxia night Market has become one of the representative night markets in Taipei, even nicknamed Taipei’s stomach. The night market gathered over 20 food stands and restaurants, all over 50 years old providing delicious snacks and savories. From oyster omelet, stinky tofu, taro cake, tofu pudding and many other traditional Taiwan style dish waiting for you to discover. Source: www.travelking.com
Shilin Night Market & Chi Cheng Temple
The Shilin Night Market in Taipei is one of the largest, most popular night markets in Taiwan with regard to food, and also one of the most popular points of Taipei's night life among visitors. Located in Taipei’s Shilin District, a mere 70 metres from MRT Jiantan Station between Dadong Rd, Danan Rd, Wenlin Rd, and Jihe Rd. The maze of alleyways is filled with a variety of local, traditional, and international merchandise that attract locals and foreigners alike. The night market consists of two major elements: general merchandise and local cuisine. Along the western edge of the market is the Shilin Night Market Food Court an underground food paradise. Many of Taiwan’s traditional foods can be found and bought for reasonable prices from the friendly locals who are eager to let you taste the unique flavours of their traditional recipes such as Giant Fried Chicken Steak, Tempura, Bubble Tea, Oyster Vermicelli Oyster Omelet, Fried Buns and of course, the most notorious Taiwanese goodie, Stinky Tofu. The most popularly recommended food in Shilin Night Market is the Oyster Omelette. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
The Shilin Night Market in Taipei is one of the largest, most popular night markets in Taiwan with regard to food, and also one of the most popular points of Taipei's night life among visitors. Located in Taipei’s Shilin District, a mere 70 metres from MRT Jiantan Station between Dadong Rd, Danan Rd, Wenlin Rd, and Jihe Rd. The maze of alleyways is filled with a variety of local, traditional, and international merchandise that attract locals and foreigners alike. The night market consists of two major elements: general merchandise and local cuisine. Along the western edge of the market is the Shilin Night Market Food Court an underground food paradise. Many of Taiwan’s traditional foods can be found and bought for reasonable prices from the friendly locals who are eager to let you taste the unique flavours of their traditional recipes such as Giant Fried Chicken Steak, Tempura, Bubble Tea, Oyster Vermicelli Oyster Omelet, Fried Buns and of course, the most notorious Taiwanese goodie, Stinky Tofu. The most popularly recommended food in Shilin Night Market is the Oyster Omelette. Source: https://guidetotaipei.com
Tianhou Temple
also known as "Ximending Mazu Temple" since the principle deity here is Mazu. The temple was built in 1746 with funds donated by immigrant merchants from Zhangzhou and Quanzhou in Fujian, China. It is one of the three major temples in Taiwan from Qing period along with Bangka Longshan Temple and Bangka Zushih Temple. Tianhou Temple is dedicated to the principle deity Mazu. It is also the only temple in Taiwan where the deity Hongfa Dashi. The god is also widely worshipped by Japanese Buddhists as "Kouhou Dashi", so the temple attracts many Japanese tourists. Source: http://www.travel.taipei
also known as "Ximending Mazu Temple" since the principle deity here is Mazu. The temple was built in 1746 with funds donated by immigrant merchants from Zhangzhou and Quanzhou in Fujian, China. It is one of the three major temples in Taiwan from Qing period along with Bangka Longshan Temple and Bangka Zushih Temple. Tianhou Temple is dedicated to the principle deity Mazu. It is also the only temple in Taiwan where the deity Hongfa Dashi. The god is also widely worshipped by Japanese Buddhists as "Kouhou Dashi", so the temple attracts many Japanese tourists. Source: http://www.travel.taipei
Songshan Feng Tian Temple
Commonly known as “The Temple of Heaven”, the Temple enshrines the Heavenly Emperor as its main deity. It is situated at Fude Street, by the foot of Tiger Mountain of the “Four Beasts Mountains”. It originates from first the year of Tongzhi reign (1862). At that time, an ancestor from Tangshan came to Taiwan alone, and resided in the cave of Tiger Mountain. He hung a red silk writing that read, “The Heavenly Emperor and various deities” by the walls of the cave entrance, and set up an incense burner on the rock to worship it. However, the cave was damaged during the Japanese colonial period. In 1954, people rebuilt a temple with bamboo at the same location to pay tribute to the Heavenly Emperor. In 1959, it was officially named “Songshan Feng Tian Temple”. From 1967 to 1977, it continued to expand, where the main hall was renovated, and a pilgrim building and library were built. With a floor area of more than 3,300m2, the place is able to accommodate more than a thousand pilgrims. From here, one can overlook The Presidential Office Building, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, CKS Memorial Hall, The Grand Hotel, International Trade Building, Grand Hyatt Taipei and City Hall, and is an excellent place of worship and enjoying the scenery. Source: http://www.travel.taipei
Commonly known as “The Temple of Heaven”, the Temple enshrines the Heavenly Emperor as its main deity. It is situated at Fude Street, by the foot of Tiger Mountain of the “Four Beasts Mountains”. It originates from first the year of Tongzhi reign (1862). At that time, an ancestor from Tangshan came to Taiwan alone, and resided in the cave of Tiger Mountain. He hung a red silk writing that read, “The Heavenly Emperor and various deities” by the walls of the cave entrance, and set up an incense burner on the rock to worship it. However, the cave was damaged during the Japanese colonial period. In 1954, people rebuilt a temple with bamboo at the same location to pay tribute to the Heavenly Emperor. In 1959, it was officially named “Songshan Feng Tian Temple”. From 1967 to 1977, it continued to expand, where the main hall was renovated, and a pilgrim building and library were built. With a floor area of more than 3,300m2, the place is able to accommodate more than a thousand pilgrims. From here, one can overlook The Presidential Office Building, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, CKS Memorial Hall, The Grand Hotel, International Trade Building, Grand Hyatt Taipei and City Hall, and is an excellent place of worship and enjoying the scenery. Source: http://www.travel.taipei