by Christian George F. Acevedo
I traveled to Taiwan where I uncovered the island’s cultural treasures. Join me as I go on a heritage walk in Taipei...
Taiwan was my first international travel destination since the COVID restriction was eased. It is the nearest to reach from the Philippines and is only about a two-hour flight away from Manila. Also, the Taiwanese government has given Filipinos visa-free access until July 2025. Taiwan is an ideal destination for travelers seeking excellent value for their money. So off I booked for a three-day, four-night trip. Since it had been almost four years since my last trip outside the Philippines, I wasn't quite sure how to navigate this trip, but I trusted that my instincts would guide me, so off I went!
A Walking Tour of Taipei
I stayed in Ximendeng, which is famous for its vibrant atmosphere. Its bustling streets are filled with fashion boutiques, trendy cafes, and street food stalls. The area is a hotspot for young locals and tourists, making it the center of pop culture. Ximending is also known for its historical landmarks, such as the Red House, a historic theater now home to shops, galleries, and cultural events.
I checked Google Maps to see what nearby places I could visit. Being a history and culture buff, I always visit sites with a rich connection to the past. From Ximending, I walked to Bopiliao Historic Block, stopping by at the Longshan Temple, before walking back to Ximending and heading to the Presidential Palace, Chiang Kai Shek Memorial, and the Central Library.
Bopiliao Historic Block
Taipei's Bopiliao Historic District in the Wanhua District is the oldest part of Taipei, originating during the Ching Dynasty. It was once Taipei’s commercial hub. Many of the buildings date from the Japanese colonial period from 1895 until 1945, and served as shophouses and residential structures.
Longshan Temple
Longshan Temple in Taiwan is no doubt the most popular and most visited temple in Taipei. It is a stunning example of classical Chinese architecture and spiritual devotion. Built in 1738 by settlers from Fujian, China, this temple has endured earthquakes, fires, and even bombings during World War II.
Presidential Palace
From Ximending, I walked straight ahead until I reached Zhongshan South Road, where the Presidential Palace is located. This grand building is the official residence and office of the President of the Republic of China (Taiwan).
After Chiang Kai Shek took control of Taiwan in 1949, the building was repurposed as the Presidential Office. The grand clock tower, which was originally used as a military watchtower during the Japanese era, remains one of the most iconic features of the building.
Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial
A short walk from the Presidential Palace took me to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, arguably Taiwan’s most prominent landmark. It was constructed between 1976 and 1980 to honor Chiang Kai-shek and celebrate Taiwan’s post-war development.
The entire complex is set within Liberty Square, an area that symbolizes Taiwan's democratic values where public events and protests are held.
Taiwan Central Library
Located across the Chiang Kai Shek memorial is the National Central Library. Established in 1928 during the Japanese colonial era, the library continues to serve as a hub for research, literature, and historical preservation in Taiwan.
The building features a striking dome-shaped roof and houses spacious reading rooms, books, and special collections that focus on Taiwan's history, culture, and the Chinese language. The building also houses a significant number of historical documents, many of which pertain to the Chinese diaspora and Taiwan's development.
Ximending Night Market
I capped my walking tour by visiting the Ximending Night Market, which is the area’s hotspot for both locals and tourists, thanks to the area’s colorful neon signs, bustling crowds, and street performers.
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