Ximending

Introducing Ximending

Ximending, located northeast of Wanhua District in Taipei City, is the most important shopping district in the city's west. The name Ximending dates back to the Japanese colonial era, when residents mostly lived in Taipei City, and the Ximen area served as their preferred leisure spot. In 1896, the first theater, the Tokyo-ting, opened here, and the area was officially named "Ximending" in 1922.

Ximending is one of Taipei's largest gathering places for people. Whether you want to enjoy affordable food, buy clothes, bags, drugstore cosmetics and souvenirs, sit on the street and drink coffee, or even want to sing karaoke or watch a movie, you can find it in Ximending.

While shopping, you can see street performers performing in any open space. If you have time, you can stop and enjoy them for a while.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Attraction opening hours

The specific business hours of each store vary throughout the day

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Most Popular FAQs for Ximending

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Ximending is a bustling district in Taipei known as the city's fashion and entertainment hub. It gained popularity in the 20th century, originally starting as a business and residential area. Today, it is a vibrant pedestrian zone that blends modern fashion with traditional Taiwanese culture. It is especially famous for its youth culture and thriving street art scene.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Ximending is located in the Wanhua District of Taipei. The most convenient way to get there is by taking the Taipei Metro (MRT) to Ximen Station (Blue Line), which directly serves the district. You can also take a taxi or bus from other parts of the city, but the MRT is the fastest and most efficient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Ximending is an open-air shopping district, so it is accessible 24/7. However, the shops and cafes typically open around 11:00 AM and close by 10:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or evening, when the area comes alive with street performances and a bustling atmosphere.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Ximending. The district is free to explore. However, you will need to pay for any purchases, dining, or entertainment. Tickets for performances or events, if applicable, can usually be bought on-site or via online platforms depending on the specific event.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For general visits, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to attend specific events, such as performances or special exhibitions, it is recommended to check availability and book tickets in advance where applicable.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Ximending, you would need at least 2 to 3 hours, especially if you plan to shop, visit landmarks like the Red House, and enjoy the local street art and performances. For a more relaxed visit, you can spend the whole afternoon or evening there.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Red House, which hosts local art exhibitions and boutique shops.
• Food street vendors, where you can try Taiwanese snacks like bubble tea, stinky tofu, and egg cakes.
• The vibrant shopping streets filled with trendy clothing stores, beauty shops, and international brands.
• Street art and performances that often take place in the open squares and pedestrian zones.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

There are no formal guided tours of Ximending, but some shops and attractions may offer audio guides or small group tours in Mandarin or English. For a more personalized experience, you can hire a local guide or take part in a walking tour of the area.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Red House's architecture and its surrounding area offer great photo opportunities.
• The main streets of Ximending, especially during the evening when neon signs light up the area.
• Street performers and artists in the district provide unique subjects for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through the main pedestrian streets of Ximending to get a feel for the area's lively atmosphere. Stop at the Red House for a quick tour of the art exhibits, and then head to the food stalls to try local Taiwanese snacks. Finally, enjoy the street art and performances before exploring the shopping areas at your leisure.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Ximending is especially lively at night, with many street performances and neon lights making it a great place for nighttime photography and exploration. There are no regular light shows, but the evening atmosphere itself offers a unique experience. Special tours may be available during festivals or events.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Ximending is generally crowded, especially on weekends and during holidays. To avoid large crowds, visit during weekdays or in the early afternoon on weekends. The area tends to get especially busy in the evenings.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public toilets are available throughout the area.
• There are numerous food stalls, cafes, and restaurants offering both traditional and international cuisine.
• Shops range from fashion boutiques to souvenir stores, with many offering water and snacks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Ximending is a pedestrian-friendly district, and most areas are accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors. However, some areas may be crowded, making it more challenging to navigate during peak times. Wheelchair access is generally available in most parts of the district.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted in most places, many shops and restaurants in Ximending also accept cards and mobile payments (such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Taiwan’s EasyCard). It's convenient to use a mobile payment option in the area.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Modern Toilet, a quirky restaurant known for its toilet-themed decor and dishes.
• Ay Chung Flour-Rice Noodle, famous for its Taiwanese-style rice noodles.
• Fried Taro Dumplings, a popular street food vendor offering delicious deep-fried dumplings.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants and food stalls in Ximending, including vegan bubble tea options and vegetarian-friendly eateries. Halal food options are also available in the area, with a few Middle Eastern restaurants nearby.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Amba Taipei Ximending is a stylish and convenient hotel located right in the heart of Ximending.
• The Westin Taipei, located nearby, offers luxury accommodations.
• Budget options such as CityInn Hotel Plus are also within walking distance of Ximending.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Longshan Temple, one of Taipei's most famous temples, is just a short MRT ride away.
• The National Taiwan Museum is located near Taipei Main Station, not far from Ximending.
• Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, another iconic landmark in Taipei, is easily accessible from Ximending.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are numerous souvenir shops in Ximending. Typical souvenirs include bubble tea-themed items, traditional Taiwanese snacks, local handicrafts, and novelty fashion accessories.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The MRT is the most convenient way to continue your trip from Ximending. You can take the MRT from Ximen Station to various other attractions, or take a bus or taxi to nearby destinations such as Taipei 101 or the National Palace Museum.