TAINAN
Getting There
From Taichung to Tainan it take about 1h30 min by train.
To make sure you have a seat, make sure you take the reserved train,
The cost for this train is NT$363, US$11.
Attention during the week end, very difficult to get tickets.
Accomodation In Tainan
I stayed at the www.provintia.com.tw (also known as the plaza hotel).
The hotel is very nice, the front desk staff very friendly and very helpful, min by taxi and very close to many tourist attraction.
The hotel have laundry facility(free), a restaurant, a room with kitchen if you need to cook or warm up some food, the hotel even have a very nice library.
Very nice and very clean room.
The price NT$8072, US$250 for 2 nights, is very cheap.
Tainan is the third city we visited in Taiwan.
Is my second favorite city, it’s a very nice and interesting city, the best way to visit this city is by walking, you discover some treasure just by getting lost in the street.
Tainan, known as the oldest city in Taiwan, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and cuisine. Once the capital during the Qing dynasty, Tainan is a vibrant city that beautifully marries its rich past with modern life.
Tainan is situated in the southwestern part of Taiwan, bordered by the Taiwan Strait to the west and surrounded by fertile plains and hills.
The city enjoys a subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters.
The geographic location enhances Tainan’s agricultural productivity, making it famous for its rice, fruits, and seafood.
Little Historical Background
Ming and Qing Dynasties
After the Dutch were expelled in 1662 by the Ming loyalist Koxinga, Tainan became the political and military center of his regime.
Under Koxinga, Tainan saw significant development, including the establishment of temples and infrastructure.
In 1683, the Qing dynasty annexed Taiwan, and Tainan continued to thrive, becoming the capital of Taiwan until 1885.
This period saw the construction of many historical buildings, temples, and forts that still stand today.
The city underwent further transformation during the Japanese colonial period (1895-1945). The Japanese implemented modern infrastructure, education systems, and public health measures. Many of the architectural styles from this period can still be seen in Tainan, blending Japanese and traditional Taiwanese elements.
After World War II, Tainan remained an important cultural center in Taiwan. While the capital moved to Taipei, Tainan retained its historical significance and became a focal point for cultural preservation and tourism.
Things to Do in Tainan.
Tainan is a very fun and interesting city to visit.
There is so many thing to see in Tainan, but due to the short time, I have to limit my visit to the following list.
- Chimei Museum.
- Tainan Flower Night Market.
- Confucius Temple.
- Shennong Street
1.Chimei Museum
How to get there.
The easy and faster way to go to the Chimei Museum, is by taking the taxi, depending where you stay in Tainan is around NT$250, US$8.
Buying your tickets online, CHIMEI MUSEUM, or you can buy directly at the museum.
Opening hours
9:30-17:30 (Ticket sales until 16:30 / Last entry 17:00)
Closed Every Wednesday
Chinese New Year’s Eve.
For the art amateur, the Chimei museum is a must go destination, is one of the most interesting museums in Taiwan. The museum looks like the White House, with the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, complete with the Fountain of Apollo from Versailles in front, while providing breathtaking views of the surrounding gardens and lakes.
Nestled in the vibrant city of Tainan, the Chimei Museum stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Taiwan.
Established in 1992 by the Chi Mei Corporation’s founder, Shi Wen-long, this museum has become one of the most prominent cultural institutions in the country, showcasing an impressive collection of art, historical artifacts, ancient weapons and musical instruments.
The Collections
Art and Sculpture
The museum houses a remarkable collection of Western art, including paintings and sculptures from the Renaissance to the 19th century. Highlights include works by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Rodin.
Musical Instruments
One of the most unique aspects of the Chimei Museum is its extensive collection of musical instruments. With over 500 pieces, this collection includes instruments from various cultures and eras, such as violins, pianos, and traditional Asian instruments. The museum regularly hosts concerts and performances, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of music in a stunning setting.
2.Tainan Flower Night Market
Getting there:
The best way to go to the Tainan flower night market is the taxi, or depending where your hotel is by walking.
Tainan Flower Night Market is one of the largest night markets in Taiwan, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with food stalls, games, and shopping. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of local delicacies, including Tainan-style beef soup, oyster omelets, and various Taiwanese snacks. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.
3.Confucius Temple
Established in 1665, the Tainan Confucius Temple is the oldest Confucian temple in Taiwan. This serene and beautifully designed temple is dedicated to Confucius and serves as a center for education and cultural activities.
The temple’s architecture features traditional Taiwanese styles, and visitors can participate in various cultural events held throughout the year.
Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday
From 8:30am to 5:30pm
No 2, Nanmen Road,West central district ,Tainan
Free entrance to the temple and the tower,
The tower is very interesting to visit specially going to the top, when going to the top be careful with the stairs, it is very tight but very nice view on the garden.
The garden or park is relaxing.
The temple close at 5:30 sharp.
When cross the street from the Confucius temple, there is a nice car free little street, the Fuzhong Street.
In this street here is a very interesting coffee shop and antique store, run by the same owner, a very nice and very original gentleman, very friendly, is a very nice place to spend time drinking a coffee, have a look in the store, anything you looking for you will find there.
The owner is so friendly, then he invite us to have a seat and we spend almost 1 hour talking with him, have a coffee and eating cookies, we had very good time.
4.Shennong Street.
Shennong Street’s history is a tourist destination, is one of Tainan’s most beloved tourist attractions, known for its enchanting atmosphere and deep cultural roots.
Dates back to the era when Taiwan was under Dutch colonial rule from 1624 to 1662.
During this period, the area began to develop as a commercial district. The street itself is named after the legendary Chinese figure, Shennong, also known as the Divine Farmer, who is venerated as a deity of agriculture and medicine.
During the Qing Dynasty, the street was also significant, serving as an entrance to the Tainan Five Channels, which were vital for shipping and exporting goods.
The street showcases a blend of traditional Fujian-style architecture with influences from Dutch and Japanese colonial periods.
Many buildings on Shennong Street feature ornate facades, wooden beams, and traditional red brick walls, offering a glimpse into Taiwan’s architectural heritage.
By the late 20th century, Shennong Street experienced a cultural renaissance, transforming into a bohemian enclave with art studios, quirky cafes, and boutique shops.
Before arriving in Shennong Street, stop at the section 2, Hai’an road, where you can find the Shuixian Gong market and also you can listening musicians,it’s very nice and cool area.
Other Places to Visit in Tainan
If you have more time to visit Tainan, there many other touristic attraction, like the following places.
Anping Fort
Chihkan Tower
Tainan Night Market
Hayashi Department Store
National Museum of Taiwan Literature
Eternal Golden Castle
Sicao Green Tunnel
Festivals and Events
Tainan is known for its vibrant festivals, which often celebrate its rich cultural heritage. The Tainan Lantern Festival, held during the Lunar New Year, features stunning lantern displays and cultural performances. Another significant event is the Mazu Pilgrimage, where thousands participate in a religious procession honoring the sea goddess Mazu.