Shop at quirky boutiques, dine at themed cafes and admire amazing street art in Ximending. The colourful neighbourhood is a hipster stronghold and filled with trendy restaurants and neon-lit bars. Colonial-era architecture lends historic charm to Ximending.
Things to do in Ximending
Walking around Ximending, you’ll see a mix of ultra-modern architecture and elegant buildings from the Japanese colonial era. The historic Red House Theatre is one of the most beautiful buildings and features a decorative brick façade. It overlooks a square lined with boutiques, bars and cafes. Shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and sip happy hour cocktails.
Ximending serves some of the best street food in Taipei. Fill up on famous Taiwanese classics like grilled mochi dipped in soy sauce, boar sausages and blow-torched beef cubes, then cool down with a cup of rainbow-coloured bubble tea. From traditional restaurants to Insta-famous establishments, you’ll be impressed by the dining scene in Ximending.
Venture down quiet streets and alleys to discover incredible murals, graffiti and street art, with most installations created by talented local artists. Ximending is dotted with “gachapon” vending machines where you can win mystery prizes, while you’ll also be lured into colourful amusement arcades open around the clock. Local street performers will entertain you with music, dance and magic tricks.
Stroll along Ximen Tattoo Street and check out designs by local artists. The glass-fronted parlours make it easy to watch locals getting inked or get a tattoo of your own. Movie Theatre Street features dozens of cinemas where you can watch Taiwanese films.
Getting around Ximending
Ximending is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The neighbourhood is in the Wanhua District and accessible via Ximen Station on the green and blue line of the MRT metro subway system. Local buses operate in Ximending or you use taxis and rideshare services. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is a 40-minute drive away.