Ximending — The name Ximending originates from the Japanese colonial era, when most residents lived within Taipei City. This area outside the West Gate was their primary recreational spot.

Ximending. The name Ximending originates from the Japanese colonial era, when most residents lived within Taipei City. This area outside the West Gate was their primary recreational spot. The name Ximending originates from the Japanese colonial era, when most residents lived within Taipei City. This area outside the West Gate was their primary recreational spot. In the early days, movie theaters were the main commercial activity here, followed by the establishment of department stores and other entertainment venues. After the completion of the Zhonghua Market in 1961, Ximending briefly became the largest commercial and entertainment center in the country. Ximending boasts many famous landmarks and shopping malls, such as the Rainbow Crossing, an Instagrammable spot, the Ximen Red House with over 100 years of history, the iconic Wannian Commercial Building, and Ximending American Street with its American-style vibe. It's also a hub for diverse cuisine, including Hong Kong-style, Taiwanese, American, drinks and desserts, cafes, bars, and various other eateries. After a period of quiet in the 1990s, Ximending transformed into Taipei's first iconic pedestrian zone, driven by the MRT and government planning. On holidays, it's always bustling with crowds, filling the arcades and streets to capacity. Whether for eating, shopping, or entertainment, you can find all sorts of trendy fashion and novel, interesting goods here, making it arguably Taipei's liveliest street. It's not only a gathering place for youth culture and street performances but also a popular spot for young people to dress up and go on dates. American Street is located next to Wuchang Street. Address: 臺北市萬華區萬壽里武昌街二段45號 Hours: 00:00–23:59 Taipei