Exploring Taipei through Iconic Movie Locations

Taipei is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant film industry. From bustling night markets to serene temples, Taipei has a lot to offer to both locals and tourists alike. One way to explore the city's unique character is through its iconic movie locations. In this article, we will take you on a journey through some of Taipei's most famous film sites.

Ximending

Ximending is a popular shopping district known for its bustling nightlife and vibrant street culture. It has also been a popular shooting location for Taiwanese cinema, and several iconic films have been shot here. One such film is "Monga," a coming-of-age drama set in the 1980s. Ximending features prominently in the movie, and you can still spot many of the locations featured in the film, such as the iconic Red House Theater.

Jiufen

Jiufen is a quaint mountain town located just outside of Taipei. It is famous for its narrow streets, old buildings, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Jiufen has also been a popular shooting location for several films, including the critically acclaimed "A City of Sadness." The movie is set in the 1940s and tells the story of a family torn apart by political turmoil. Many of the film's scenes were shot in Jiufen, and you can still visit many of the locations used in the movie, such as the A-Mei Tea House.

Taipei 101

Taipei 101 is one of the most iconic landmarks in Taipei, and it has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. Most famously, it was the setting for the climactic scene in "Lucy," a sci-fi action movie starring Scarlett Johansson. The scene takes place on the building's observation deck, which offers panoramic views of the city below. If you're a fan of the movie, you can visit Taipei 101 and relive the excitement of the film's finale.

Longshan Temple

Longshan Temple is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Taipei. It has been a popular shooting location for several films, including "The Puppetmaster," a biographical drama about a Taiwanese puppeteer. The film features several scenes shot inside the temple, which is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture. If you're interested in Taiwanese history and culture, a visit to Longshan Temple is a must.

Yangmingshan National Park

Yangmingshan National Park is a vast nature reserve located just outside of Taipei. It is home to several scenic hiking trails, hot springs, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The park has also been a popular shooting location for several films, including "You Are the Apple of My Eye," a romantic comedy set in the 1990s. The film features several scenes shot in the park, including a memorable scene where the main characters watch the sunrise from the top of a mountain.

Taipei is a city with a rich film history, and exploring its iconic movie locations is a great way to experience its unique character. From the bustling streets of Ximending to the serene temples of Longshan, Taipei has something to offer to everyone. So the next time you're in the city, be sure to visit some of these iconic film sites and discover a different side of Taipei.