2014 Xikou Cultural Festival – A Micro-Tour to Witness the History and Changes of Songshan

Photo & Text /Purple Smile

Today, let’s take you to discover the Songshan you may not know about!!! You may wonder how much you know about Songshan. It was formerly called Xikou, and in the development history of Taiwan, Dongqu Xikou, Westqu Monga, and Dadaocheng all played important roles!! But now, when people mention Songshan, they might think of the well-known Ciyun Temple, or the nearby Raohe Night Market, or perhaps Songshan Airport or the Wufenpu garment wholesale center!! However, through a series of events at the 2014 Xikou Cultural Festival, the Xikou Cultural Study Camp will allow everyone to understand the former glory of Songshan (Xikou), while the Songshan micro-tour will introduce you to its newer and more fun side!! Whether you’re a local or not, you’ll get to know the rich charm of Songshan (Xikou)!! Join us in exploring Songshan (Xikou)!

This is the administrative map of Songshan.

I believe many friends, like us, first associate Songshan with Raohe Night Market!! In fact, the nearby Ciyun Temple, bustling with worshippers, can be considered the starting point of the entire Songshan area’s development. In ancient times, this place was called “Xikou,” and it served as an important river transport hub connecting the north and south. It was once known as the “Little Suzhou.” The Goddess Mazu worshipped at Ciyun Temple is paraded around during her annual pilgrimage, covering more than half of Taipei City, making it one of the major local events. The Songshan District Office, in conjunction with the birthday of Mazu, organizes the Xikou Cultural Festival to help locals learn more about the former splendor of Xikou.

The activities of the Xikou Cultural Festival are mainly divided into two parts: the Xikou Cultural Study Camp and the Songshan Micro-Tour. These two activities combine historical heritage with tourism promotion. Simply put, through these events, we aim to help more people understand the Songshan area!! This year’s Xikou Cultural Festival will kick off with the “Birthday Celebration and Grand Offering Ceremony for the Heavenly Holy Mother at Ciyun Temple.” On May 3rd, there will be a carnival event at “Chengmei Left Bank Riverside Park” as the grand finale!!

Since Songshan (Xikou) developed around Ciyun Temple, let’s first take a look at some interesting spots nearby.

The Blessing Bell in front of the temple square – this is a mechanical bell that made a long journey from Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. It was created to thank Ciyun Temple for its timely disaster relief efforts after the East Japan Earthquake and to commemorate Ciyun Temple’s 260th anniversary.

This area is near the exit of the MRT station, and once the MRT is completed, it is sure to become a new highlight of the district.

The entire bell stands about 655 cm tall, and every hour, there’s a musical performance featuring songs dedicated to the Heavenly Holy Mother, which is very fitting.

Interestingly, some parts even feature Mazu, along with Qianliyan (Thousand-Mile Eye) and Shunfeng’er (Fair-Wind Ear), appearing in sync with the music – very much reflecting the local culture!!

Ciyun Temple at night is resplendent and dazzling.

Rainbow Bridge. This rainbow bridge connects Raohe Night Market with Neihu’s Xinming Road. Hey, it’s actually already a popular photography spot among photographers.

The entire Rainbow Bridge winds and twists, resembling a living dragon, offering different vibes during the day and night – truly beautiful.

The LOVE landmark below also makes this a sacred spot for couples.

The riverside pathway is a great place for cycling or for residents to jog and relax.

You might not know this, but because this area used to be a river port and transport hub, the original Ciyun Temple actually faced the Keelung River. Some of the walls from that time still remain, dating back a hundred years – definitely worth a look if you’re interested.

And of course, the nearby, well-known Raohe Night Market is, without a doubt, a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists coming to Taiwan.

The “Xikou Cultural Study Camp” offers a wide range of activities, from April 23rd to May 3rd, with six events held every Saturday until May 3rd. These include Happy Farm Experiences, Creative Balloon Crafting, Kids’ Play with Dolls, Parent-Child Balloon Art, and “Love in Xikou – Helping You Welcome a Healthy Pregnancy.”

The four circles on the map represent the approximate routes of the four tours.

The “Songshan Micro-Tour” combines Songshan District’s featured attractions and shops, planning four micro-travel routes. Activities on April 26th and 27th include the “Peaceful Journey – Love Tour of Xikou” – a half-day trip where you can visit Ciyun Temple, the Dogo Onsen Blessing Bell, then stroll through Raohe Night Market, Rainbow Bridge, and Xikou Wharf. Along the way, you can also check out friendly local shops like Yuhuaxing Pastry Shop and Yuzhenxin.

There’s also the “Slow Life. Delicious Happiness Farm Tour,” where you can explore Taipei Arena, the Social Education Center, try alleyway snacks, experience the Happiness Farm, and then head to Taipei Puppet Theater and Core Pacific City.

The “Flower Expo Little Joy Tour” includes stops at Songshan Airport Observation Deck, Flower Expo, Tiger House Coffee, and Micro Heat Hill.

The “Art Museum & Green Tunnel Forest Breathing Tour” takes you through Songshan District’s unique parks, such as Minsheng Park and Fumin Ecological Park. These four routes will let you experience the highlights of Songshan District – guaranteed to be fun and allow you to understand the full charm of Songshan.

Many people don’t realize that the blessing and peace cards in the temple can be put to good use – to make wishes for yourself, your family, and your friends.

When you’re here, you definitely can’t miss Raohe Night Market – one of its iconic foods is a must-try.

The unique face-threading art is becoming increasingly rare to see.

The century-old shops in the night market bear witness to the history and changes of Songshan (Xikou).

Shiding is not just one of Taipei City’s administrative districts; its Shiding Airport is also one of the country’s current gateways, making its importance self-evident.

Through route-based walking activities, we aim to help everyone better appreciate the beauty of Shiding. Of course, “Up” is more than just an event—everyone can also follow the route and take a wonderful stroll!!

2014 ? Mouth Culture Festival Event Information

Friends who wish to participate in the event, don’t forget to contact the Shiding City Office.

We are Ben & Jean—we love food, travel, photography, and 3C.
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