Attractions nearby to Ximending
Located in the western portion of the city, near the river separating
Taipei from New Taipei, the Ximending distraction is ideally located for
access to historic and important landmarks and signtseeing destinations.
Here are just some suggestions of attractions you may wish to visit as a
part of your trip to the district. Or if staying in a hotel in Ximending
then these will be your easy-access sights.
The Red House – This historic theatre building can be seen across the road when you exit Ximend Station Exit 6 on the way to Ximending. The red brick building is immediately obvious due to the contrast to the neightbouring modern structures. Built first in 1908 as a market during the Japanese occupation period it is also often called the Red THeater and the Red Playhouse to mark how it is now used. Despite the cruciform shape it has never been connected to Christianity
Address: No. 10, Chéngdū Rd, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108
Phone:+886 2 2311 9380
Hours: 11am to 9:30pm,. But closed on Monday.
Website: http://www.redhouse.org.tw/index_en.aspx
Tin Hau Temple – Also known as Ximending Mazu Temple this traditional Chinese Taoist temple was actually built in 1746 . situated on the next block north behind the Red House, adjacent to the main pedestrian area of Ximending, this is a quite spot for contemplation hidden behind modern shops. It's hard to find the path but ask a local and you'll be directed.
Taipei Zhongshan Hall – The old city hall of Taipei this historic structure was completed in 1936 under the Japanese occupation on the site of the old Qing Dynasty government offices. With a modern steel and concrete structured with highlights in Spanish Islamic style this was an iconic building in Taipei for many years. Now used as conference and meeting venue it contains several separate large halls some with original design elements. The broad open space outside the east end of the building is a favourite public square.
Although open every day even when no performances are scheduled, it is necessary to make an appointment one week in advance to tour the building. See the official website for details:
Website: http://english.zsh.taipei.gov.tw
Office of the President Republic Of China – First building 1919 as the Colonial Governers Office by the Japanese this building was badly damaged in World War II but was rebuilt in its original form in 1948 to become the office of the President of China. Also known for much of it's history as Chieh Shou Hall, in honor of the founder of modern China, the building is now a government office.
Open to visitors Monday to Friday except holidays from 9:00 to 12:00, last entrance at 11:30.
Website: http://english.president.gov.tw/Default.aspx?tabid=519
National Taiwan Museum – the main museum of the capital it holds
a cross section of important materials relating to China. As well as the
permanent exhibitions of Taiwanese indigenous people and pre cultural
artefacts there are also special exhibitions, and open air displays of
bronze and stone artworks, historic cannons and railway engines.
Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00am to 5:00pm including public holidays.
Website: http://formosa.ntm.gov.tw/
Yánpíng Riverside Park – one of the prized open green spaces
in the city this public park is between Ximending and the river. With
football, basketball and tennis courts for hire, as well as a long
promenade along the water perfect for the kids to ride bikes. Try
walking all the way to the northn end and see the Dadowcheng Wharf.
The North Gate – This traditional Qing Dynasty gatehouse is one of the few reminders of that part of Taiwanese history. Also known as Chengen Gate this remnant of the days when Taipei was a walled city now stands alone, except for the Jing-Fu or East Gate. Built as part of city walls in 1884 only the North Gate retains its original design. The East Gate and the South Gate are rebuilt in symbolic style.
Taipei Cinema Park – Near the end of Emei Street the Cinema Park is a an exciting open air venue for performances.
228 Peace Memorial – Formally called Taipei New Park this popular
green lung of the city was renamed in 2/28 Incident of 1947.
National Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall
Longshan Temple