Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network, Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported
The Banqiao District, which has developed rapidly in recent years, is filled with high-rise residential buildings, offices, and commercial spaces, with large shopping malls also moving in one after another, making it the equivalent of Xinyi District in New Taipei City. Yet amid this colorful and fashionable atmosphere, the 435 Art Zone with its classical European-style architecture, Lin Ben Yuan Garden Residence, Xinpu Market where locals shop for ingredients and delicacies, Cihui Temple’s God of Wealth Hall rebuilt from Terry Gou’s ancestral home, and the ns Ya Night Market — the largest nighttime market in Banqiao — all vividly reflect the district’s historical memories and cultural charm. Now, set off for Banqiao right away to experience the city’s blend of old culture and new art.
Banqiao, which has recently become a hub for fashion and trends, still preserves many old buildings and local traditional delicacies worth savoring. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
435 Art Zone
The park features some of the greenest and most charming trees in Banqiao, as well as open and spacious grounds. With its original European-style architecture, it creates an aesthetic atmosphere. The main building, Zhongzheng Hall, is a notable landmark with its neoclassical pediment and colonnades, where various cultural and artistic events are held irregularly. In addition, there are also courses and activities such as the Lu Ban Craft Research Institute, Indigenous Peoples Activity Center, and International Art Village, bringing a more diverse cultural and artistic flavor to the 435 Art Zone.
[Info]
Phone: 02-2969-0366
Address: No. 435, Zhongzheng Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City (next to Banqiao Junior High School)
The lofty 1950s-style terrazzo retro corridor becomes even more romantic and magical when lit up at night. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Xinpu Market
Located near Xinpu Metro Station, Xinpu Market is an important supply spot for locals to purchase ingredients and enjoy snacks. Among them, the entrance to the market in front of Exit 1 of Xinpu Metro Station, located in Lane 31, Alley 435, Section 1, Wenhua Road — namely “Xinpu Yimian,” “Yongjiu Handmade Buns,” and “Carmen Coffee” — are the three most favored eateries, becoming popular food spots that foodies love to queue for.
[Info]
Address: Inside Alley 435, Section 1, Wenhua Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City
The famous wonton yimian at Xinpu Market features thin wrappers, generous fillings, and a fresh yet not greasy broth. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Sanfeng Taro Ice City
Since 1976, Sanfeng Taro Ice City has maintained this nostalgic vibe. Its old-fashioned handwritten sign makes you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, while the unique sound of the “snow ice” machine — made using traditional methods — hums in your ears. The small square tile counter is adorned with an old electric fan that makes a familiar buzzing noise, and the counter displays quaint “salty-sour sweet preserved fruits” that are truly a surprise.
[Info]
Phone: 02-2952-4097
Address: No. 15, Minzu Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City
Snow ice is made by cooling it at sub minus ten degrees Celsius and continuously stirring to remove moisture from the ice. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Cihui Temple
Cihui Temple is primarily dedicated to Mazu. Since the Xianfeng era of the Qing Dynasty, it has been worshipped and deeply revered by Banqiao residents, with incense growing increasingly popular. However, after being eroded by wind and rain, the Lin Ben Yuan family took the lead in constructing a Mazu temple, which was completed in the 13th year of the Tongzhi era (1874 AD), becoming Cihui Temple. The current appearance of Cihui Temple has also been reconstructed. During the annual birthday celebration of Mazu in March, worshippers flock here. One of the most talked-about aspects of Cihui Temple is the God of Wealth Hall, which was rebuilt from the ancestral home of Taiwanese tycoon Terry Gou, and serves as a side hall of Cihui Temple.
[Info]
Phone: 02-2965-0012
Address: No. 81, Fuzhong Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City
Cihui Temple is a faith center for Banqiao residents, and its side hall was rebuilt from the home of wealthy businessman Terry Gou. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)