Bopiliao Historical Block (剝皮寮歷史街區)

Bopiliao is one of Taipei’s rare surviving streets that preserves the architectural spirit of the late Qing Dynasty through to the Japanese colonial era. It sits quietly near Longshan Temple in Wanhua District — the oldest part of the city once known as Bangka (艋舺). The name “Bopiliao,” which literally means “the place where bark is peeled,” is thought to have come from the area’s early timber trade, when logs were stripped of bark here before being shipped down the river.

The area prospered during the 19th and early 20th centuries as a bustling commercial hub linking river transport, temples, and local markets. Its narrow lanes are lined with red-brick shophouses blending Fujian, Baroque, and Japanese styles — arched corridors, carved wooden doors, and high brick façades that speak of layered histories. The street was later left behind as modern Taipei grew around it, but in the early 2000s, it underwent careful restoration. Today, it serves as a free open-air museum where visitors can walk through exhibits about old Taipei, education during Japanese rule, and the life of the city’s earliest merchants.

A stroll through Bopiliao feels like stepping into a different era — echoes of street vendors, the scent of wood and stone, and the soft golden light reflecting off aged bricks.

Longshan (Lungshan / Rung Shan) Temple (龍山寺)

Just a short walk away stands Longshan Temple, founded in 1738 by settlers from Fujian province. It was built as a spiritual centre for immigrants in Bangka, dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. Over nearly three centuries, the temple has been damaged by earthquakes, fires, and even air raids during World War II — yet each time it was lovingly rebuilt by the community, a testament to Taipei’s enduring faith and resilience.

Architecturally, Longshan Temple is a masterpiece of southern Chinese temple design. Its sweeping roofs are adorned with dragons, phoenixes, and ceramic deities crafted by master artisans from Quanzhou. The layout follows classical feng shui principles, with intricate wood and stone carvings representing virtues, legends, and blessings. Incense smoke rises continuously, curling beneath lanterns that have lit the prayers of countless generations.

Today, the temple remains one of the liveliest spiritual centres in Taipei. Locals come daily to seek fortune sticks, light incense, and offer prayers not only to Guanyin but also to other deities like Mazu, Wenchang Dijun (the god of literature), and Yue Lao (the matchmaker god).

Visiting Reflection

Walking from the quiet red-brick lanes of Bopiliao to the incense-filled courtyards of Longshan Temple, you experience two living histories — one secular, one sacred — bound by the same soul of old Taipei. Both are open to the public free of charge, offering a glimpse of Taiwan’s layered past and the cultural heart that still beats strongly today.

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Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple Gallery

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

Bo Pi Liao and Rung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan

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