Explore Old Town’s Classic Shops: A Fun Day Trip in Zhulian!

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family / Compiled & Reported
 
New Taipei City, the earliest developed city in northern Taiwan, carries three centuries of historical shifts and changing times. Within just one square kilometer of the old town area, it has the highest density of historic sites in the country. In this small expanse of old streets, you’ll also find various coexisting elements of old and new. This weekend, take your family to explore Zhulian!

Hsinchu East Gate (also known as the Welcome-to-Dawn Gate of Zhulian City) is a national historic site. Hsinchu was formerly called Zhulian City and was built in the 9th year of the Daoguang reign during the Qing Dynasty (1829), boasting a history of 190 years. During the Japanese colonial period, due to urban street reorganization, only the Welcome-to-Dawn Gate—now known as the East Gate—remains standing among the original four city gates. It towers amidst the bustling streets, blending into everyday life, quietly counting the passage of seasons.

Beneath the gate square lies the remnant of an ancient moat, built during the Qing Dynasty. The moat is like a beautiful oasis within the city, with green trees and vegetation on both banks, offering spacious pedestrian walkways. Residents can stroll or exercise along the riverside, while the stage area provides performance space for cultural groups. The atmosphere at night is romantic, adding a soft charm to the city.

Located between the train station and Eighteen Peaks Mountain, Hsinchu Park is just a 10-minute walk from the station. To soak up some of Hsinchu’s laid-back vibe, consider a short stop at Hsinchu Park. The park includes Lily Pond, Lakeside Pavilion, the zoo, the Glass Museum, and the Confucius Temple. Lush with trees, the shimmering waters of Lily Pond and the wooden zigzag bridge adorned with pavilions attract travelers looking to capture great photos.

Strolling along Central Road’s old shops: an old aquarium shop, Quanxiang Tea House which once sold opium, brush shops, the Old Town Regeneration Base, and Shigou Alley—where porters used to carry night soil out of the city. Since the Qing Dynasty, this area has been known for manufacturing and selling rural goods, featuring two century-old shops: Zhumao Hang and Fengyi Hao.