Introduction to Bopiliao Historical Block
Bopiliao Historical Block (Bopiliao Old Street) is one of Taipei’s best-preserved historical areas, located in the heart of the city’s Wanhua District. With origins tracing back to the late Qing Dynasty, this charming street offers a rare glimpse into what Taipei looked like over 200 years ago.
Today, it functions as both a cultural site and open-air museum, showcasing traditional architecture and Taiwanese heritage.
A Walk Through Time in Taipei
As you step onto Bopiliao’s stone-paved lanes, it feels like time slows down. The preserved buildings reflect Taiwan’s complex history—from Qing Dynasty origins and Japanese colonial influences to early 20th-century commercial development.
The area has been carefully restored to reflect this layered past, making it a must-visit for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
Unique Architecture from Different Eras
One of Bopiliao’s defining features is its stunning blend of architectural styles. The red brick walls, wooden doors, arched walkways, and baroque-style façades tell a visual story of changing eras.
You can see how the area evolved, with buildings that served as old shops, homes, and even medical offices, all now lovingly preserved for the public.
Cultural and Educational Exhibitions
Many of the buildings along Bopiliao Old Street are open to visitors and feature curated exhibitions on local culture, art, education, and daily life in old Taipei.
The Heritage and Culture Education Center is especially popular, offering hands-on activities and multimedia presentations that engage both adults and children.
Film Location and Creative Hub
Bopiliao’s authenticity has made it a favorite location for period dramas and historical films, including several well-known Taiwanese productions.
Its vintage charm also attracts local artists, musicians, and photographers, turning the space into a creative hub. It’s not uncommon to stumble upon a street performance or art display while exploring.
Family-Friendly and Interactive for Kids
This historical site isn’t just for adults—children will also find it engaging. Interactive exhibits, educational games, and weekend workshops make Bopiliao a great stop for families.
Parents can relax while kids explore themed rooms or participate in cultural craft activities, which often reflect Taiwanese folklore and traditional professions.
Shops, Souvenirs, and Street Snacks Nearby
Although Bopiliao itself is a preserved heritage zone, its surrounding streets are alive with modern Taipei energy. Just minutes away are local food vendors and souvenir shops, perfect for grabbing a bite or taking home a memento. Traditional snacks like peanut rolls, herbal jelly, and steamed buns are easy to find nearby.
Close to Longshan Temple and Other Landmarks
Bopiliao Historical Block is conveniently located near some of Taipei’s most iconic attractions. Just a 5-minute walk away is Longshan Temple, a spiritual and architectural gem, and Huaxi Street Night Market, known for its traditional street food and unique vendors. Combining these sites makes for a well-rounded cultural experience in one visit.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family traveler, or a cultural explorer, Bopiliao Old Street offers something unique—an immersive experience into Taipei’s past in the middle of a bustling modern city. It’s an excellent spot to slow down, take in the scenery, and connect with the rich heritage that has shaped Taiwan’s capital.
Full-Day Taipei Itinerary
- 09:00 – Start at Longshan Temple
Begin your day at Longshan Temple, one of Taipei’s most iconic spiritual landmarks. Built in 1738, the temple showcases beautiful Chinese architecture, intricate carvings, and a deep connection to local folk religion.
MRT: Longshan Temple Station (Blue Line)
Time to spend: 30–45 minutes
- 09:50 – Explore Bopiliao Historical Block
Just a short walk from Longshan Temple, this restored heritage street offers a glimpse into Taipei’s past. Wander the red-brick lanes, visit the Culture Education Center, and enjoy street photography at its finest.
Tip: Check if there are any exhibitions or art workshops running during your visit.
Time to spend: 20–30 minutes
- 10:30 – Head to The Red House & Ximending
Take the MRT to Ximen Station, then walk to the Red House — a century-old market that’s now a lively art and design hub. You’ll find indie shops, artisan crafts, and creative boutiques.
Perfect for: Unique souvenirs and browsing local designer goods
Time to spend: 30–45 minutes
- 12:00 – Lunch at Ximending Walking District
Walk around the Ximending pedestrian zone, one of Taipei’s trendiest spots. From street food to modern cafés, there’s something for every craving.
Food to try: Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodles, Taiwanese fried chicken, bubble tea
Time to spend: 1 hour
- 13:30 – Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Take the MRT to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station. This grand national monument is a must-see, complete with traditional gardens, white marble steps, and the hourly guard changing ceremony.
Great spot for photos and a bit of modern history
Time to spend: 1–1.5 hours
- 15:00 – Stroll Through Taipei Botanical Garden
Just a 10-minute walk from the memorial, the Botanical Garden offers a peaceful escape with lotus ponds, rare plant species, and historical pavilions.
A relaxing way to enjoy nature in the city
Time to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- 16:30 – Rest or Explore Nearby Area
Before dinner, you can either:
Relax at a nearby café
Visit National Museum of History (optional) 10:00-18:00(Closed Mondays).
Browse shops around the Botanical Garden area
- 18:00 – Dinner at Nanjichang Night Market
End your day with dinner at Nanjichang Night Market, a hidden local favorite known for authentic, affordable eats. Unlike tourist-heavy markets, this one is popular with locals and full of flavor.
Must-try: Pork liver soup, rice noodles, pepper buns, glutinous rice cakes
Tip: Take a short taxi ride or bus from the Botanical Garden
Time to spend: 1–1.5 hours
- Getting Around
Use the Taipei MRT (easy, efficient, English-friendly)
Combine walking + short MRT/bus rides
All locations are within Taipei City
Things to Do in Bopiliao Historical Block
Bopiliao Historical Block is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring Taipei’s rich cultural heritage. Located in the Wanhua District, this historic block offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past through its preserved architecture, interactive exhibits, and vibrant atmosphere.
It is one of Taipei’s most charming and historical areas, offering visitors a variety of things to see and do. Whether you’re a history lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique experience, here are the best things to do when visiting Bopiliao Old Street:
Explore the Historic Architecture
Step back in time as you explore the historic architecture of Bopiliao Historical Block, one of Taipei’s oldest preserved neighborhoods. This cultural gem in the Wanhua District showcases a stunning mix of Qing Dynasty brickwork, Japanese-era design, and early 20th-century Western influences.
As you walk along the narrow alleyways and red-brick facades, you’ll experience the city’s architectural evolution and discover how old Taipei once looked, long before skyscrapers dotted the skyline.
Perfect for photographers, history lovers, and culture seekers, Bopiliao offers a rare visual journey through over 200 years of urban history. The buildings have been carefully restored to preserve original features like wood-framed windows, tiled roofs, and decorative carvings, while also hosting modern exhibits and events.
Whether you’re admiring the textures or learning the stories behind each structure, the architecture here connects you to Taipei’s rich and diverse heritage.
Key Points:
Well-preserved red-brick buildings from the Qing Dynasty
Blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Western architectural styles
Ideal for cultural walks and street photography
Visit the Heritage and Culture Education Center
Free admission. Located at the end of Bopiliao Old Street (here)
The Heritage and Culture Education Center at Bopiliao Historical Block is a must-visit for anyone eager to dive deeper into Taipei’s past. Housed in a beautifully restored former school building, this center brings history to life through interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and immersive installations.
Visitors can explore themed halls that showcase the evolution of Taiwan’s education system, traditional Chinese medicine, and daily life in old Taipei, making it an enriching experience for all ages.
Whether you’re traveling with kids or exploring solo, the center offers a balanced mix of learning and fun. Replica classrooms, photo galleries, and hands-on sections help visitors connect with Taiwan’s cultural heritage in a memorable way.
Best of all, entry is free, making it a budget-friendly yet meaningful addition to your Bopiliao visit.
Key Points:
Interactive museum housed in a restored historic school
Exhibits on education, traditional medicine, and old Taipei life
Family-friendly with hands-on displays and multimedia
See Where Taiwanese Films Were Shot
Bopiliao Historical Block isn’t just a preserved street — it’s also a beloved filming location for Taiwanese cinema. Most famously featured in the hit movie Monga, the area’s nostalgic atmosphere and well-preserved architecture make it a favorite backdrop for period films and TV dramas.
Walking through the narrow alleys, you’ll recognize scenes brought to life on screen, adding a layer of cinematic charm to your visit. For film lovers and curious travelers alike, it’s a chance to experience Taipei like a movie set.
The natural lighting, red-brick facades, and vintage shopfronts provide a setting that feels frozen in time. Bring your camera and capture your own cinematic moments while retracing the footsteps of well-known local actors.
Key Points:
Filming location for popular Taiwanese movies like Monga
Authentic old-town ambiance perfect for cinematic photography
A fun and immersive experience for movie fans and culture buffs
Photograph the Historic Streets and Architecture
Bopiliao Historical Block is a dream location for photography lovers, offering a rich blend of Taipei’s past through its well-preserved architecture and vintage street scenes. The red-brick walls, wooden doorways, stone-paved lanes, and old signage create a visually stunning atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or just capturing memories on your phone, this unique setting offers endless inspiration for portrait, street, and architectural shots.
Early morning and late afternoon light create beautiful shadows and textures, perfect for highlighting the intricate details of the Qing-era structures. With fewer crowds during these hours, it’s also a great opportunity to snap photos without distractions.
Every corner of Bopiliao offers a frame-worthy moment, making it one of the most Instagrammable historic spots in Taipei.
Key Points:
Stunning red-brick and wood architecture ideal for photography
Great lighting conditions for capturing textures and shadows
Perfect for both casual and professional photo shoots
Visit Longshan Temple Nearby Bopiliao Historical Block
Just a short walk from Bopiliao Historical Block, Longshan Temple is one of the most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks in Taipei. Built in 1738, this beautifully preserved temple blends traditional Chinese architecture with intricate carvings, colorful tiles, and a serene courtyard.
Dedicated to Guanyin, the goddess of mercy, it is a living place of worship where visitors can observe locals performing rituals, lighting incense, and offering prayers — providing a deeply authentic cultural experience.
Whether you’re interested in Taiwanese religious traditions or simply admire historical craftsmanship, Longshan Temple is a must-see.
It’s also a photographer’s favorite thanks to its ornate details and atmospheric setting. The temple is easily accessible and free to enter, making it a perfect cultural stop to pair with your visit to Bopiliao.
Key Points:
One of Taipei’s oldest and most revered temples (est. 1738)
Rich in traditional architecture, carvings, and cultural rituals
Located just a 5-minute walk from Bopiliao Historical Block
Opening Hours
Bopiliao Historic Block 09:00-18:00(Closed Mondays).
Price
Cost: Free Entrance
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bopiliao Historical Block is during the cooler months from October to March, when Taipei’s weather is mild and comfortable for walking tours.
These months offer pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and clearer skies — perfect for exploring the area’s historic architecture, visiting cultural exhibits, and taking photos without the discomfort of summer heat.
Visiting on weekdays or early mornings also means fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take unobstructed photos.
If you’re hoping to experience local events or exhibitions, weekends often feature cultural performances, art shows, and family-friendly workshops at the Heritage and Culture Education Center.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or casual traveler, timing your visit well enhances the overall experience.
How to Get to Bopiliao Historical Block
By MRT:
Take Blue Line (Bannan Line) to Longshan Temple Station
Exit at Exit 3
Walk 3–5 minutes: turn right → Kangding Road → right onto Guangzhou Street → Entrance at Lane 173
By Train:
Get off at Wanhua Railway Station
Walk left onto Kangding Road for ~10 minutes to Guangzhou Street → Entrance at Lane 173
By Bus:
Bus stops: Longshan Temple (Xiyuan), Longshan Temple (Kangding), Lao Song Elementary School
Common routes: 49, 527, 673, 234, 265, 628, 705, and others
Short walk to the historical block from any of these stops