I’d found unfinished drafts of my solo trip to Taiwan, and this year, I’m determined to share all the highlights from my travels. Join me as I revisit my day exploring the charming historical district of Anping in Tainan, Taiwan.
Tainan, Taiwan’s Oldest City
Formerly the capital of Taiwan until 1887, Tainan is the oldest city on the island of Formosa with over 400 years of history. Originally established by the Dutch East India Company as a trading base in 1624, Tainan became a colonial centre known as “Fort Zeelandia” (today’s Anping Old Fort). After Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong) drove out the Dutch in 1662, Tainan remained as the capital under successive regimes, the Kingdom of Tungning and later Qing Dynasty rule, until 1887, when the capital was first moved to modern-day Taichung and then Taipei.
Today, this former capital city remains a popular destination for travellers seeking history, culture, and delicious street food; every nook and cranny of Tainan is redolent of heritage.
And for me, it had become a place for me to spend my Lunar New Year🍊.
Yongle Market and Shennong Street
My day began at the famous food street, Yongle Market （永樂市場）, enjoying hand-brewed coffee at Yu Ge Coffee （宇哥咖啡）and silky soybean curd at Xiuan Dou Hua （修安豆花）.
Just nearby is the Shennong Street（神農街）, historically an entrance to Tainan’s important river port during the Qing Dynasty. Once the busiest merchant street in town, Shennong Street has transformed into a vibrant hub for art and culture today. Quaint cafes, craft boutiques, and colourful storefronts line this picturesque street.
Chikan Tower: Dutch Heritage in the Heart of Tainan
Next, I visited the Chikan Tower （赤崁楼）, originally known as Fort Provintia. Built by the Dutch in 1652, the building was once the administrative centre of Tainan. Today, Chikan Tower features beautifully restored traditional Chinese architecture with red-tiled roofs and ornate carvings.
Within its grounds are the Haishen Temple （海神廟）, Wenchang Pavillion （文昌閣）, and Penghu College （蓬壺書院）.
At its south gate stand nine imperial stone plinths carried by the statues of Bixi （贔屭）, a mythical turtle-like creature said to be one of the nine sons of the Dragon King who symbolises strength, adding folklore charm to this historic landmark.
Anping Old Fort: Fort Zeelandia
A short bus ride away from Chikan Tower is the iconic Anping Old Fort （安平古堡）, formerly Fort Zeelandia. Built by the Dutch as their defensive stronghold in 1634, it was a crucial trade outpost during their rule. Eventually recaptured by Kongxinga, a Ming loyalist general, the name was changed to Anping.
A museum of Taiwan’s colonial past, Anping Old Fort is filled with remnants of history, including Dutch armaments amidst the faded brick walls.
Anping Old Street: Taiwan’s First Street
Next to Anping Old Fort is Anping Old Street (安平老街), often referred to as “Taiwan’s First Street.”
Established during Dutch colonial times over three centuries ago, this lively market street was once a bustling merchant area.
Today, it’s renowned for delicious local delicacies and traditional crafts like handmade fans and pottery.
Anping Tree House: Nature Meets History
Anping Tree House （安平樹屋）is perhaps the most unique attraction within Tainan. Once an abandoned warehouse belonging to Tait & Co. Warehouse, it was built around the end of the 19th century during the Japanese Colonial Period.
Over years of neglect, giant banyan trees overtook the structure with aerial roots intertwining through the walls and roofs.
Today, visitors can explore elevated wooden pathways winding through the massive banyan roots entwined around brick walls.
The Tait & Co. Merchant House nearby now serves as a museum showcasing Taiwan’s early trade history, providing the history of this captivating site.
How to Get there:
From Tainan Train Station:
- To Chikan Tower: Bus #3 or #5
- To Anping Old Street/Fort/Tree House: Bus #2
Tips for the Visit
- Bring sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and a camera!
- Start the day around noon when most stalls open on Anping Old Street.
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Blast to the past!
A trip through these heritage sites in Tainan had been quite the marvel for me. From fascinating colonial history to picturesque streetscapes and delicious food, Tainan has everything for everyone!
Check out Sicao Tunnel: Little Amazon of Tainan too!
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