Visit Bopiliao Historical Block & Longshan Temple
Get in touch with traditional Taiwan at these must-see historic sites in Wanhua District. They’re close together, making for a perfect short and sweet afternoon itinerary if you’re visiting Taipei. They’re rich with history and culture, provide great photo opportunities, and best of all, they’re free to visit!
We checked out Bopiliao Historical Block and Longshan Temple on a beautiful day in March. It was an afternoon well spent.
The historical block is basically a single old street with a long history dating back to 1799. It features 18th century architecture that’s been restored and reopened to the public, with traditional Qing Dynasty shop houses and exhibitions showcasing traditional furniture, medicine, and education.
It’s quite small and there’s not a whole lot to see, but it’s a nice area that serves as a quiet escape from the city. There are plenty of photo-worthy spots and brick walls painted with charming graffiti. It’s worth passing through to snap your next Instagram photo.
After soaking in the history, you can pass through a bustling street market on your way to Longshan Temple.
This market has more of an older feel to it. It was packed with elderly locals when we visited on a Saturday afternoon. They were selling everything from vegetables to clothing to small trinkets.
This place is also worth passing through to get some serious traditional Chinese vibes.
Longshan is the most famous temple in Taiwan. It was originally built in 1738 by Chinese settlers from Fujian and it continues to stand today after weathering both natural disasters and wars. The city has renovated the temple and surrounding grounds continuously to keep it functional and immaculate.
Many festivals and celebrations are held in Longshan, and it’s a popular prayer site. While it was very crowded on the Saturday afternoon we visited, the incense-filled air carried a sense of calm. We had a really nice visit and enjoyed the sights despite the crowds.
What’s the vibe?
The old street is a quiet escape from Taipei, while the market and temple are much busier. Each of them are great to check out for a short visit to get in touch with traditional Taiwan.
Worth it?
Yes.
We spent a nice afternoon wandering around, snapping photos in the sunlight. The temple was especially nice with incense burning and locals singing. Best of all, everything’s free!
Would you go back?
Yes.
Especially when we have friends visiting, these historic sites are a must-see.
Visited: March 2018
| Bopiliao Historical Block |
| Chinese Name: 剝皮寮歷史街區 |
| Hours: 9am – 9pm, Closed Mondays |
| Phone: 02 2336 1704 |
| English Address: Lane 173 Kangding Road, Wanhua District, Taipei |
| Chinese Address: 萬華區康定路173巷 |
| Longshan Temple |
| Chinese Name: 龍山寺 |
| Hours: 6am – 10pm |
| Phone: 02 2302 5162 |
| English Address: No. 211, Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District, Taipei |
| Chinese Address: 台北市萬華區廣州街211號 |
