Skye HsiaoWhenever I have a free afternoon with nothing to do, I would call up my bestie and an hour later, we’d be in one of the hipster heavens in Taipei. It is incredibly easy to spend a whole day in these areas, whether we decide to enjoy a vegan brunch, sip on a cup of mocha latte or just wander around to discover hidden shops. Let me show you where to go, and why you should go!
Songshan Cultural Park
Image credit: ForgeMind ArchiMedia’s photostream
Located in the busy Xinyi District, Songshan Cultural Park was once an “industrial village” for tobacco production, established by the Japanese back in 1937. The old warehouses later became a popular venue for cultural and creative exhibitions. Most exhibitions are free so don’t hesitate to peek into one of them.
Image credit: jennifer yin
At the northern end of the park, there is an Eslite Spectrum which houses a large bookstore, a creative works shopping mall, and several DIY art workshops which welcomes participation. For instance, there is a handmade jewellery workshop and a film developing workshop!
How to get there: Take the MRT Blue Line to Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall Station. Go out from exit 5 and follow the signs.
Huashan 1949 Creative Art Park
Image credit: Michelle Lee
Image credit: Michelle Lee
Now this, this is every hipster’s dream: a winery-turned-creative art park that hosts mini-concerts, art exhibitions, a cinema, speciality stores and cafes. It is always packed on the weekends but is the perfect place for a nice stroll on a sunny weekday afternoon.
Image credit: Chia Ying Yang
Check out the huge variety of brunch beauties at Daylight, or go for a fancy cocktail at the outdoor Trio Café.
How to get there: Take the MRT Blue Line to Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station. Go out from exit 1 and follow the signs.
Fujin Street
Situated away from the bustling city centre, the tree-lined Fujin Street in Songshan District remains one of Taipei’s most underrated and untouched hipster areas. Spanning nearly one kilometre, the neighbourhood is home to vintage furniture stores, Japanese-style hipster cafes and chic boutiques.
Image credit: manginwu
Definitely have a piece of cake at the famous landmark Fujin Tree 353 Café by Simple Kaffa, and check out the multi-concept venue Fun Fun Town for cool postcards and handmade gifts. For those who are into Japanese fashion, go to BEAMS for both women and menswear.
How to get there: Take the MRT Brown Line to Songshan Airport Station. Go out from exit 3 and walk for about 15 minutes.
