Xinzhuang Temple Street Shopping District Introduction
Xinzhuang means "new emerging street" and has a history of over 300 years, originating from Xinzhuang Temple Street, which began in the late Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty. Xinzhuang is the earliest township in the Taipei Basin, benefiting from the convenient navigation system of the Tamsui River, earning it the reputation of "a thousand sails at Xinzhuang Harbor and a thousand lights of businesses gathering," once becoming the third largest thriving city in Taiwan. Immigrants from various regions brought their hometown beliefs to Xinzhuang for a living, making it one of the densest areas of century-old temples among the many old streets in New Taipei, hence being called Xinzhuang Temple Street. The old street, protected by numerous deities, features bustling ancient temples that have witnessed the rise and fall of Xinzhuang over hundreds of years and represents an important cultural asset of New Taipei City. Among them, Guangfu Temple is listed as a national historic site; Ciyou Temple, Wusheng Temple, and Wenchang Shrine are designated as municipal historic sites, all serving as vital centers of faith in the Xinzhuang area. While strolling in Xinzhuang, visitors may enter temples to light incense and pray for family safety and national prosperity. The historical charm of Xinzhuang Temple Street is deeply rooted, with century-old alleys and shops like Rice Market Street, Theatre Alley, and Iron Works Lane exuding a unique aroma and sound. At night, Xinzhuang Temple Street transforms into a lively night market, with enticing stalls offering spring rolls, Mongolian barbecue, melon meat rice, and red yeast meatballs, where steam and fragrance rise before the ancient temple, and each stall boasts delicious treats refined through time.
