Anping Old Street

Introducing Anping Old Street

Anping Old Street (Yanping Old Street), located on the east side of Anping Fort, was the first street built by the Dutch in Anping three hundred years ago, and is therefore also known as Taiwan's First Street.

The houses along Anping Old Street are primarily earthen houses, low red brick houses, and Western-style buildings. The Western-style buildings feature whitewashed and stone-washed walls, while the railings, capitals, and reliefs on the eaves are all handcrafted.

To revive the public's appreciation for the sword lion and to preserve Anping's cultural tourism and resources, Mr. Cai Jinan developed the Jianshi Courtyard, centering on the " Anping Sword Lion . " Jianshi Courtyard features a theme pavilion where visitors can learn about the origins of the sword lion and a Jianshi Fan Hall displaying a variety of fans. Activities are also held regularly, including sword lion painting workshops, visits with sword lions, lectures on ancient sword lion paintings, and the design of innovative sword lion cultural products.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Anping Old Street

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Anping Old Street is one of the oldest streets in Taiwan, reflecting the area’s rich history dating back to the 17th century. It has been the center of trade, culture, and the influence of colonial powers, particularly the Dutch. The street remains a vibrant cultural hub today, offering a blend of history, food, and local crafts.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Anping Old Street is located in Anping District, Tainan. It is easily accessible by taxi or bus. The street is within walking distance from other popular attractions like Anping Fort and the Anping Tree House.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The street is open all day, but shops and food stalls generally start opening around 10 AM and close by 10 PM. The best time to visit is in the afternoon or early evening when the weather is cooler and the street comes alive with locals and tourists alike.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to walk around Anping Old Street. However, some of the nearby attractions like Anping Fort or the Tree House may require an entrance fee, which can be paid on-site or via online booking platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets need to be booked in advance for visiting the street itself. For attractions like Anping Fort, it’s advisable to buy tickets on the day of your visit or online if you want to avoid lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Anping Old Street can take about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend shopping, tasting street food, and visiting nearby attractions.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The food stalls offering local delicacies like oyster omelets and shrimp rolls.
• Traditional Taiwanese shops selling souvenirs like pottery, tea, and handmade crafts.
• The Anping Tree House, a unique and historical attraction just a short walk from the street.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at nearby attractions like Anping Fort and the Tree House, usually in Mandarin and English. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages for these sites.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best spots for photos are along the street where the old buildings and street vendors create a nostalgic atmosphere. The Anping Fort and Tree House provide excellent viewpoints, especially for capturing the beauty of the old trees and colonial-era architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through Anping Old Street, sampling food, and exploring the shops. From there, head to nearby Anping Fort and then visit the Anping Tree House for a complete experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no specific light shows or night tours in Anping Old Street. However, the street is quite lively at night, and some of the shops and food stalls stay open, offering a different atmosphere after sunset.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekends and public holidays can be crowded, especially in the late afternoon and evening. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays in the morning or early afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public toilets available along the street. Plenty of food stalls offer snacks and drinks. Rest areas are scattered along the street, where visitors can take a break. Many souvenir shops are also available for shopping.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Anping Old Street is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, although the cobblestone paths may be difficult for wheelchair users. Some of the nearby attractions are more accessible with ramps and elevators.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While many street vendors accept cash, some shops and restaurants in the area also accept cards or mobile payments. It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local restaurants offering Taiwanese cuisine like Anping Bean Jelly, traditional shrimp rolls, and fresh seafood.
• Cafes serving Taiwanese tea and coffee with seating overlooking the street or waterfront.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some food stalls and restaurants. However, vegan and halal options may be limited, so it’s recommended to ask vendors directly for specific needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotel Tainan is a short distance away and offers comfortable stays.
• Other guesthouses and boutique hotels are scattered around Anping District for a more local experience.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Anping Fort
• Anping Tree House
• Koxinga Shrine

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops along the street selling Taiwanese snacks, handmade crafts, pottery, and traditional goods such as tea and paper lanterns.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Anping Old Street, taxis or local buses are available for further exploration of Tainan’s attractions. Rental bikes are also a popular option for traveling around the city.