LOCAL TOUR ITINERARY
1. Date and Meeting Point
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Date: Second day of the conference (exact date to be announced by the organizer)
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Time: Departure at 1:30 PM, expected to conclude by 5:00 PM
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Meeting Point: Main entrance of Lunghwa University of Science and Technology
2. Tour Route
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Route: A One-Day Cultural Stroll Through the Old City Charm
3. Registration and Fee Details
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Each conference registrant is entitled to one free tour slot (only one free slot even if the same person registers a second paper)
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Each additional participant will be charged TWD 500 (approximately USD 20)
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The fee covers transportation, insurance, and light refreshments
4. Reminders
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To ensure tour quality and safety, spots are limited. Early registration is recommended.
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Please wear light clothing and comfortable shoes.
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In case of inclement weather, the organizer reserves the right to modify or cancel the tour.
Route
A One-Day Cultural Stroll Through the Old City Charm
(老城風華文化漫遊一日遊)
▶ 1. Bopiliao Historical Block (剝皮寮歷史街區)
Located in Wanhua District, Taipei, Bopiliao is one of the few remaining Qing Dynasty streets in the city. Constructed in the mid-19th century, it was named after its former role as a timber processing hub. The area features a unique architectural mix of Minnan red bricks, Baroque-style buildings, and structures from the Japanese colonial period, preserving a complete urban streetscape from over a century ago. It was also a filming location for the movie Monga.
As you walk through Bopiliao, the red-brick arcades, wooden windowed houses, and stone-paved roads seem to whisper tales of the past. Beyond the historical ambiance, the area also hosts the Bopiliao Historical Education Center, cultural exhibition spaces, educational workshops, and artist-in-residence programs, making it a model for blending education, culture, and tourism. It's perfect for snapping photos and learning about the everyday lives of early Wanhua residents and the development of Taipei’s urban history.
▶ 2. Longshan Temple (龍山寺)
Just a 3-minute walk from Bopiliao, Longshan Temple is one of Taipei's most iconic and spiritually significant temples. Built in 1738, it boasts nearly 300 years of history and is considered a stronghold of folk religion in Taiwan, often referred to as the "spiritual fortress of Wanhua."
The temple is primarily dedicated to Guanyin (the Bodhisattva of Compassion) and also enshrines a pantheon of deities including Mazu, Guan Gong, and Wenchang Dijun—addressing prayers for peace, love, careers, and academic success. Its ornate architecture is truly breathtaking, featuring intricate carvings and vividly depicted dragons and phoenixes. Even for those not religious, the temple's artistic beauty and cultural depth are worth a visit.
Surrounding Longshan Temple are numerous local specialty shops and old-time snacks, such as Herbal Alley, A-Yi Braised Pork Rice, herbal teas, and tofu pudding. It's an experience where you can admire religious architecture and enjoy authentic Taiwanese flavors all at once.
▶ 3. Ximending Shopping District (西門町商圈)
Known as the go-to hub for Taipei’s youth culture, Ximending has been a center of entertainment and commerce since the Japanese colonial period. Today, it remains a melting pot of trends, fashion, subcultures, cinema, food, and street art.
This vibrant district is a magnet for fans of streetwear, anime, K-pop, and street performances. In the pedestrian zone, it's common to see dance battles, cosplay, and live music. The area also features countless niche shops and international chains, offering everything from Korean cosmetics to vintage film cameras.
A standout cultural landmark is the Red House Theater, a century-old building that now hosts designer brands and creative markets. It’s also an important symbol of LGBTQ+ culture in Taiwan, showcasing the city's inclusivity and diversity.
As night falls, transitioning from historical streets and temples to this lively cultural hotspot creates a vivid journey through Taipei’s past and present. It’s a one-day experience that captures the city’s many faces in one dynamic route.
