Wanhua District

Overview

Wanhua is Taipei's oldest district and spiritual heartland, home to Longshan Temple and a gritty, authentic neighborhood that preserves the raw character of old Taipei.

Highlights

• Temple Culture: Multiple active temples including Longshan Temple, Qingshan Temple, and Qingshui Temple create a dense spiritual landscape.
• Herb Lane: Xichang Street's traditional herbal medicine alley, where vendors still prepare remedies using ancient recipes.
• Bopiliao Historical Block: A superbly preserved Qing-dynasty street with red-brick shophouses now housing exhibitions.

History

Wanhua (originally called Monga or Bangka) was the first area of Taipei to be settled by Han Chinese in the early 18th century. It served as Taipei's commercial and spiritual center for over 200 years.

Visitor Tips

• Bopiliao: Don't miss this preserved historical block just south of Longshan Temple — free admission.
• Snake Alley: Huaxi Street Tourist Night Market, while touristy, offers a glimpse into old Taipei's edgier past.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.