Although the Xinyi Line is not very long, it passes through an area packed with dining, entertainment and attractions, connecting almost all the Taipei sights most loved by tourists. Image source: Taiwan China Times News
China News Service, Nov. 18 — According to Taiwan’s Central News Agency, the Taipei MRT Xinyi Line will open on the 24th. Though only 6.4 kilometers long, the line runs past Taipei 101, Tonghua Street Night Market, Da’an Forest Park and Yongkang Business District, offering food, fun and everything in between.
Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-pin today announced that the Xinyi Line will open on the 24th, with one month of free trial rides and discounted fares. The Xinyi Line has seven stations: Zhongzheng Memorial Hall, Dongmen, Da’an Forest Park, Da’an, Xinyi Anhe, Taipei 101/World Trade Center, and Xiangshan, spanning a total of 6.4 kilometers.
The Xinyi Line is the second east-west route after the Banqiao-Nangang Line. Though not very long, it passes through an area packed with dining, entertainment and attractions, connecting almost all the Taipei sights most loved by tourists.
First, as soon as you exit Dongmen MRT Station, you’ll find yourself in Yongkang Business District, a favorite among tourists. It’s home to famous spots like “Din Tai Fung” and “Yongkang 15” Ice Cream Shop, while its alleys are filled with unique shops and street food. Centered around Yongkang Park, the surrounding area is packed with boutique shops, attracting both local and international visitors.
Da’an Forest Park is a rare patch of greenery in the heart of Taipei, often referred to as the “city’s lungs.” It features a variety of trees, an outdoor music stage and a children’s play area. With the opening of the Xinyi Line, it’s expected to attract even more visitors.
The opening of the Xinyi Line is also expected to draw crowds to the Linjiang Street Night Market, located between Section 4 of Xinyi Road and Section 2 of Keelung Road, where nearly 200 food stalls serve delicacies such as pan-fried buns and pig’s blood cake. Nearby Wenchang Street is a historic furniture street in Taipei, offering a wide range of Chinese and European styles, both large and small.
Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station is arguably the most important stop on the Xinyi Line, providing access to the Taipei World Trade Center and Taipei 101. The World Trade Center regularly hosts major events like travel expos, book fairs, computer shows and comic conventions, which always draw huge crowds and snarl nearby traffic.
Taipei 101 is an iconic landmark in Taipei. Its high-floor observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, allowing visitors to experience high-altitude winds, clouds and vast vistas. Fireworks shows are held here every New Year’s Eve, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.
Xiangshan Station, at the end of the Xinyi Line, is close to the 44 South Village and Xiangshan Nature Trail. The 44 South Village boasts a nostalgic military dependents’ village charm, offering a rare retro scene in the urban jungle, with creative weekend markets being a major highlight.
The Xiangshan Nature Trail is a well-known hiking path in downtown Taipei. With the convenience brought by the Xinyi Line, getting close to nature is now easier than ever.