A grid town rebuilt after a fire, birthplace of Taipei's biggest night market
⏱ 1–2 hoursFoodiesNightlifeShoppersHistory buffs
士林25.0888°N 121.5248°E
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The story
Shilin's old town burned in a clan feud; leader Pan Yong-qing had it rebuilt on higher ground as a grid of East, South, West and North Roads with defensive gates. The square in front of Cicheng Temple at its centre became a trading ground, a public market opened in 1915, and the area grew into Shilin Night Market. Locals say: 'East Road for herbs, South Road for Mazu, West Road for tailors, North Road for blades.'
Architecture
Post-war modernJapanese-era
Themes
Qing eraTemplesNight marketHerbal medicine
Getting there
Where
Dadong Rd, Danan Rd, Daxi Rd and Dabei Rd, Shilin District, Taipei
Getting there
MRT Jiantan Station, ~5 min walk
Time needed
1–2 hours
Best time
Night market is busiest in the evening; by day see Cicheng Temple and herbal shops