Ximending and Its Vicinity, Taipei, Taiwan

Ximending is a popular shopping and entertainment district in Taipei, Taiwan.  In the vicinity are Bopiliao Historic Block and Longshan Temple.

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Ximending is known for its numerous shops and boutiques that cater to a wide range of interests. You can find clothing stores, streetwear shops, electronics stores, souvenir shops, and more. It’s a great place for shopping for both locals and tourists.

Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle.  A tour book recommended this one to try.  Many street food places sell food without a place to eat, so people stand in front of the store and consume the food.

Within the noodle soup were bits of salty cured pig chewy intestines.

In front of the food stall was this game area with pinball-style game machines.  Even children play it, so it must not be considered gambling.

Walking to the Read House.

The Red House Theater is an example of Japanese colonial-era architecture and was built in 1908 during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan. It is one of the oldest Western-style buildings in Taiwan.

A large portion of the building is used as a market.

Walking to Bopiliao Historic Block

Bopiliao Historic Block is a well-preserved section of old Taipei that dates back to the Qing Dynasty (circa 1800s). It provides visitors with a glimpse into Taiwan’s history and culture during this period.

The buildings in Bopiliao are examples of traditional Southern Fujian-style architecture, with red-brick facades and ornate details. This architectural style reflects the cultural influence of the Fujianese immigrants who settled in the area.

Bopiliao has been revitalized as a cultural and historical site. Visitors can explore the area’s history through exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours.

Bopiliao was once a bustling commercial center, and it played a significant role in the development of Taipei. It was a place where merchants conducted trade, and you can still see the traditional shops and storefronts that have been preserved.

Looking back

Walking to Longshan Temple

A 85 degree coffee shop. 

Longshan Temple was originally built in 1738 during the Qing Dynasty by settlers from Fujian, China. It has undergone several renovations and reconstructions over the years due to natural disasters and wars. Despite these challenges, it has remained a vital religious and cultural center.

The temple is renowned for its beautiful and intricate architecture. It is a prime example of traditional Chinese temple design, featuring a central hall surrounded by courtyards, pavilions, and prayer halls. The temple incorporates elements of Buddhism, Taoism, and folk religion.

Walking toward the back of the main building

Walking back to the front side

Longshan Temple is dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Guanyin, as well as several other deities, including Taoist and folk deities. It serves as a place of worship for Buddhists and Taoists and is an important religious site for local devotees.