Taipei's history originated in the western part of the city, where several transportation hubs can also be found. Today, despite the city's commercial activity having gradually moved eastwards, this side of the city still features a melting pot feeling, having woven various burgeoning elements into its own culture and history-centered texture. This juxtaposition makes it a must-see place for tourists coming to Taipei from abroad.
The commercial district behind the old Taipei railroad station was where many well-known entrepreneurs got their start. This area includes Chongqing North Road, Huayin Street, Taiyuan Road, Zhengzhou Road (also known as Civic Boulevard) and other alleyways and corridors. Over 300 stores selling all types of goods can be found here, including accessories, leather goods, toys, gifts and hardware. Business owners in the area each have their own story to tell about how they achieved success.
The center of the Longshan Temple commercial district is the place of worship itself, which is a level two national historic site. Each day, a countless number of locals and foreigners come to the temple to light incense and pay their respects. Just as well known as the temple, however, is the night market located on Huaxi Street, which is just a few minutes' walk away. This is also a must-see stop on the itinerary of foreign tourists to the city.
The Bopiliao block of restored buildings in the Wanhua district, which dates back over 100 years, has recently been renovated and reopened. These buildings exhibit the architectural characteristics of southern Fujian, with arcades running in front of them. In addition, many of the buildings still exhibit Western-style columns, which were popular during the Japanese colonial period in Taiwan. The movie “Monga” came to this spot to film on location. Bopiliao is expected to become an increasingly popular place for future visitors to the Longshan Temple commercial district.
The Ximending commercial area, or West Gate district, is a haven for young people who are into pop culture. But in fact, Ximenting is another example of the old and new coming together in Taipei. To be sure, the district consists of a mishmash of styles. In recent years, the Red Brick Theater and the area around it have become an important center for creativity. Many young people who have established their own brand names have set up small stores in the area. On the weekends there is a large market where people display and sell their wares. Once again, this injects a creative and innovative energy into the old buildings that dot the area.
Besides these three pivotal commercial districts, which are all located in the western part of the city, the Gongguan commercial section, which is situated in the southern part of the city, has also become a hotbed of retail activity. One reason for this is that it is a transportation hub. Aside from the business activities around subway stops in the area, the Taipei City government in recent years has created bike pathways and pedestrian walkways along the riverside in the Gongguan area, attracting many bikers and walkers.
The Taipei Water Park is a core feature of the Gongguan commercial area. Besides offering a place in the summer to cool off and play in the water, the area is also perfect for an evening stroll. In addition, a bicycle path circling the premises is gradually being completed, making a new spot for bicyclists.
(This article originally appeared Nov. 29, 2009 in the “Liberty Times.”)