7 Things You Must Know Before Going to Tainan|Ultimate Tainan: The Unique Human Touch of the Ancient Capital
First, you can choose between the high-speed rail and the Taiwan Railway from Taipei to Tainan. The high-speed rail is far from the city, so after getting off, you need to take a bus or taxi. Fortunately, the high-speed rail is fast and only takes about 2 hours.
The Taiwan Railway Station is located in the city center, but its disadvantage is that it is relatively slow. If you have to stop at various places from the north to the south, it is okay to take the Taiwan Railway. If you want to go directly to Tainan, it is better to take the high-speed rail.
Second, there are many attractions in Tainan, and the best way to get around is to rent an electric car. The fee is calculated on a daily basis, and any overtime will be charged separately. Two batteries are basically enough for a whole day of riding. Mainland tourists need to pledge their passes or passports.
Third, you must stay in a B&B in Tainan. The B&Bs in Tainan each have their own characteristics. Many of them are converted from old houses and have a special sense of history and human touch, just like Li Ziwei's home in Taiwanese dramas. It is definitely a completely different experience from staying in a cookie-cutter hotel.
Fourth, Tainan was the first capital of Taiwan, from the Dutch period, the Ming Zheng period, to the Qing Dynasty. It was not until the Japanese era that the capital was moved to Taipei. Here is Taiwan’s first Confucius Temple, the first Mazu Temple, and the first castle. Friends who like historical sites are in luck.
Fifth, you must visit a “Showa-style” department store in Tainan. Hayashi Department Store was completed and opened in 1932. At that time, it was the tallest building in Tainan and was equipped with elevators, rolling doors and other modern facilities that were rare at the time.
After World War II, it closed and remained idle for a long time, and was later announced as a historical site in Tainan City. After the overall restoration of the building, the Tainan City Government outsourced it to Gaoqing Fashion and reopened it in 2014 with the theme of "Cultural and Creative Department Store". The shrine on the rooftop was also repaired and preserved.
Sixth, Tainan is a food capital with many authentic southern Taiwanese delicacies, such as beef soup, eel noodles, salty porridge, and various distinctive rice cakes. In addition, sugar is produced in abundance in southern Taiwan, so even the braised pork rice is sweet. The quality of the fruits is also very good, and the various smoothies and tofu pudding made from them are simply a paradise for dessert lovers.
Seventh, the current Tainan includes the former Tainan City and Tainan County. After the merger of the county and the city, they are collectively called Tainan City. In addition to the urban area, you can also visit the towns and villages below if you are interested. For example, if you ride westward from Tainan, you can reach Anping. It is said that this is the place where Zheng Chenggong first landed in Taiwan. If you ride further, you will reach the seaside and overlook the Taiwan Strait.