The Story of Taipei: A Full-Day Tour of Historical Sites

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in Taipei's rich history on a guided walking tour
• Explore the Presidential Office Building and learn about Taiwan's history
• Visit the Lungshan Temple and admire its intricate carvings and stone columns
• Stroll through the Bopiliao Historic Block and see its preserved architecture
• Discover the vibrant Ximending district and the iconic Red House Theater

Description

Begin your journey at the Presidential Office Building, a landmark of colonial-era architecture and a seat of Taiwan’s central government. Enter and explore its stately halls, admire its baroque red-brick façade, and learn about its significance through exhibitions that trace Taiwan’s political evolution and democratic achievements. From here, continue into the winding lanes of Wanhua District, Taipei’s oldest neighborhood. The first stop is Huaxi Street Night Market, also known as Snake Alley. By day, glimpse the old market arcades and traditional shops, while in the evening, the street transforms into a vibrant food haven. Sample classic Taiwanese snacks, herbal soups, and unique delicacies while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere of lantern-lit alleyways. Next, visit the majestic Lungshan Temple of Wanhua, one of Taipei’s most venerated temples. Built in the 18th century, this temple is dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin, and integrates Taoist and folk deities as well. Inside, the intricate carvings, stone columns, and flying eaves showcase masterful craftsmanship. Stroll to the Bopiliao Historic Block, a beautifully preserved street that offers a glimpse into Taipei’s Qing Dynasty and Japanese colonial past. The red-brick houses, wooden doors, and stone-paved alleys now host cultural exhibitions, interactive displays, and art installations. The route then leads to the iconic Red House Theater (Ximen Honglou) in the trendy Ximending district. Originally constructed in 1908 as a market building, it was later converted into Taiwan’s first public theater. Today, it serves as a cultural and creative hub, housing artisan shops, craft markets, and small art exhibitions. Finally, stroll along Dihua Street in Dadaocheng, one of Taipei’s oldest trading districts. Once the center of commerce during the 19th century, Dihua Street is lined with elegant baroque-style shop houses and tea merchants. Browse Chinese medicinal shops, taste roasted nuts and dried fruits, or sip tea in one of the renovated cafés tucked inside heritage buildings.

Includes

Visit to the Presidential Office Building {Enter to visit} Entry to Huaxi Street Night Market Visit to Lungshan Temple of Wanhua Stroll through Bopiliao Historic Block Visit to Red House Theater Walk along Dihua Street

Important Information

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking Check the opening hours of the Presidential Office Building for special visits Be prepared for crowded areas in night markets and popular sites The driver and tour guide during the journey are the same person.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund