Bopiliao Historic Block preserves approximately 200 meters of Qing-dynasty and Japanese-era shophouse facades, making it one of the most intact surviving examples of Qing-period commercial streetscapes in Taipei. After restoration, it was designated by the Taipei City Government as an open-air cultural venue, hosting occasional art exhibitions and community events. Located adjacent to Longshan Temple, it is the heart of the old Manka neighborhood for experiencing the historical atmosphere of the area.
Highlights of Bopiliao Historic Block
The name Bopiliao dates to the Qing dynasty. Manka (the old name for Wanhua) was Taipei's earliest commercial hub for external trade, and the Bopiliao area was the core of its street market. The surviving building facades blend Qing-era southern Fujianese red-brick shophouses with Japanese-period Western-style arcade buildings, recording Taipei's architectural transition from Qing rule to Japanese colonial governance. Some walls still bear remnants of plaster decorations and brick carvings worth a close look.
The corridors and interior spaces of the block were restored under commission by the Taipei City Government and are open to the public, with occasional exhibitions of community art, photography, and historical documents, as well as spaces used for educational purposes. The film "Monga" was partially shot here, making it a destination for fans of that movie. The block is not large in scale; a complete walkthrough takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and it pairs well with Longshan Temple in a half-day itinerary.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Time
- Take the MRT Bannan Line to Longshan Temple Station and walk about 5 to 8 minutes to the Bopiliao entrance.
- The outdoor corridors are open all day, free of charge. For indoor exhibition space hours and closures, check the official website of the Taipei City Department of Education.
- It is recommended to pair this visit with Longshan Temple; a complete tour of both takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Nearby Connections
- Guangzhou Street Night Market and the Xichang Street area are concentrated spots for traditional Wanhua street food, good for a meal in the evening.
- Manka Park nearby retains elements of old neighborhood life; a stroll through the wider Wanhua area reveals more of the district's character.
Source: Taipei City Bureau of Cultural Affairs historic building records and publicly available historical materials. Photos to be replaced with Dio's own shots.