Musings of a Traveling Foodie: Tainan

Sunday, July 5, 2020

Tainan

The next day we took a train to Tainan, 48 km and 30 min north of Kaohsiung. Tainan is the oldest city in Taiwan and was the capital for over 200 years from 1683 to 1887. It is known as Taiwan's Spiritual Capital, with over 1600 temples.

Temples are scattered throughout the city. Take a look at the roof, some intricately carved and full of color. Enter through the right (the dragon door) and exit through the left (the tiger door).

There is usually an urn full of incense just outside the temple.

Upon entering the temple, step over the raised platform (not on it). Inside, you'll find statues of the gods who are worshipped within the temple, along with offerings of flowers and fresh food. Most temples are free to visit. Just be respectful of those who are there to pray.

Tainan's most famous sight is Chikhan Tower, also known as Fort Provintia . It costs NT50 ($1.67) to visit. It was built by the Dutch in 1653 when the Dutch occupied Taiwan.

On the grounds is a Statue of Koxinga, the Prince of Yanping, accepting the surrender of the Dutch.

Inside you'll find a Portrait of Koxinga.

The windows reminded me of Gaudi's works in Barcelona.

Celebrations and parades are common in Taiwan and we came upon one when we left the Chikhan Tower. We weren't sure what this parade was all about.

There were children dressed in traditional costumes.

And there were scantily clad women on top of cars.

The lion dance is ubiquitous.

We purchased an all-day bus pass from 7-Eleven for NT80 ($2.67) and took bus #88 to the Eternal Golden Castle. This was built in 1876 to defend the island from the Japanese. Admission is NT50 ($1.67).

A moat surrounds the castle and you can paddle around the castle.

The center of the fort.

The Eternal Golden Castle is near Anping, the oldest section of Tainan.

Wander the streets, some covered, and sample various delicacies.

Continuing north across the river, you'll come upon Fort Zeelandia. Admission is NT50 ($1.67). Fort Zeelandia was built by the Dutch East India Company in the 1620-30s to control trade in Asia.