Taipei Signs for Sign2

 

Hot Dog shop

Don Don Donki shop sign says "Welcome"

A traditional shop that sells simple carbohydrates 

Life has become considerably more tranquil of late. With but a few days remaining in my hometown, I now choose to take my leisure, reclining and occupying myself with various shows. The humidity here has grown quite oppressive, and the rising temperatures only add to the discomfort. It has, as a result, become increasingly difficult to venture outdoors.

Sony A7RV + FE 20-70mm f4 G

This is linking Sign2

Lung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan for Treasure Tuesday

 

Lungshan Temple, one of Taipei's most venerated and historic sanctuaries, still bears the vestiges of the recent Lantern Festival, with vibrant lanterns swaying gently in the breeze even as spring advances. Founded in 1738 during the Qing Dynasty by settlers from Fujian, this sacred site has long stood as a testament to the resilience and devotion of the local people, having endured earthquakes, fires, and even wartime bombardments.

In my younger days, I often wandered these hallowed grounds, capturing candid images of life unfolding amid the temple's intricate carvings and incense-laden air. These excursions were frequently shared with my friend Darren, a Canadian who, like me, found himself drawn time and again to the timeless atmosphere of Lungshan Temple. Together, we sought to preserve fleeting moments through the lens, amidst a setting where history, faith, and community converge.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Wai Xi Street Signs at night for Sign2

 

That sign reads dumpling

"Shaved Ice shop"

Apart from attending to unresolved family matters, I did not visit many scenic locations. Instead, I spent my time strolling and dining according to recommendations from various culinary magazines. The thunderstorms arrived and departed frequently, characteristic of the unpredictable weather typical of an island.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

This is linking Sign2

Bo Pi Liao Heritage buildings with graffiti for Treasure Tuesday

 

Bo Pi Liao, located in the Wanhua District of Taipei, Taiwan, is a historical and cultural gem that offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich past. This preserved area, known for its well-maintained Qing Dynasty architecture and Japanese colonial influences, stands as a testament to Taipei’s transformation from a trade hub to a modern metropolis. Bo Pi Liao is not only a place of historical significance but also a center for cultural education and artistic expression.

Historical Significance

Bo Pi Liao’s history dates back over 200 years to the Qing Dynasty, when it was a bustling commercial district. The area flourished due to its strategic location along trade routes, serving as a marketplace for merchants and craftsmen. During the Japanese colonial period (1895-1945), the district underwent significant changes, with the introduction of new architectural styles and infrastructure developments that blended traditional Chinese and Western influences. Later, during the post-World War II era, Bo Pi Liao saw urbanization, but many of its historical buildings were preserved, allowing future generations to appreciate its unique heritage.

Architectural and Cultural Heritage

One of Bo Pi Liao’s most striking features is its architecture. The buildings, constructed using red bricks, wooden beams, and stone carvings, reflect a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Western architectural styles. The narrow alleys, arched corridors, and preserved shopfronts transport visitors back in time, showcasing Taipei’s commercial history.

Bo Pi Liao is also home to the Heritage and Culture Education Center of Taipei, which provides exhibits and interactive displays about the city’s history. Through these exhibits, visitors can learn about Taipei’s evolution from a traditional market town to a modern urban center. The area often hosts cultural events, including art exhibitions, traditional performances, and educational workshops, further enhancing its role as a cultural hotspot.

While waiting in line for what was reputedly the finest congee in Taipei, as praised in various magazine reviews, I unexpectedly wandered into this historic district. Though the congee itself did not prove to be particularly remarkable, the accompanying dishes were quite delightful.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Taipei Street Signs for Sign2

 

I love the duck 5 eats in this place

Linking Sign2

Mazu Shrine Birthday celebration for Sign2

 

Mazu is the patron deity of fishermen, and her birthday on the 23rd day of the third lunar month (it falls in April or May) is celebrated each year with frenetic explosions of colorful activity.

The sign says 1065th Birthday celebration. 

It is situated at an entrance of a night market

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

Lanterns in Taiwan for Sunday Best

 

It is literally raining everyday here. Including the same forecast for the next fortnight. Apart from the same usual public service inefficiency, I would take walks and long trips snapping street scenes.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

The cool shopfront from Taipei Central District for Sign2

 

This shop only opens at night. It is designed for people who takes acids I guess. Effects are more pronounced for drug users.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Sign2

Tamshui Taiwan Dock for Skywatch Friday

 

The water was actually clean in contrast to my childhood memory. 

Tamsui Old Street is divided into the inner and outer side. The outer street is the golden anchor walkway of Tamsui river coast, while the inner side is a traditional old street lined with bustling shops. There are faithfully traditional pastry shops, groceries and stores selling trendy outfits and toys. The popular foods in the area include A Gei, fish ball, fried fish crackers, traditionally baked cake, Granny’s iron eggs, etc. are all must try goodies. In the evening, the beautiful scenery of the sun setting below the ocean horizon can be seen along the golden anchor walkway.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

Taipei street signs for Sign2

 

Sign overload everywhere in Taipei street

Linking Sign2

Cat family in tea room outside a cafe for Mural Monday

 

This is a mural I would have forgotten in the hard drive if I was not searching for a mural to post on this event

Outside a cafe in Taipei Taiwan

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Taipei mural for Mural Monday

 

Melbourne is cold too. Despite me paying the bill, mum's frugal approach to simple life means no heating at all (I spent 20k AUD on the 26 sheets of solar panel and a battery too). She even developed chilblains in her feet. The generation. 

My trip to Cape Woolamai did not happen as the gale was up to 40 knots. The weekend weather was not fitting for me to go into the nature at all. Plus mum and brother were nagging me to stay home boy instead. So I ended up trying the best winning 2023 pie in Australia - I will show later on.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Taipei Mural in Ximengding for Mural Monday

 

It looks very odd. It feels Bolognese sauce gone wrong in human brains. 

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Taipei Hut for Mural Monday

 

This was a tool shed to store cleaning equipment. Quite a lot of walls painted by mural. It was a nice area to explore.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Street sign in Tamshui Taipei for Sign2

 

The sign says street corner. The carp symbolises wealth. 

This is an old street from 1900s

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Sign2

Comic book premier on mural for Mural Monday

 

Quite comical to see a fusion of Japanese Manga and Taiwanese local style in the mural

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Manga Mural for Mural Monday

 

This is the mural from the time I was in Taipei. 

Just got home from Queensland. Rushing through all the work preparations for next day. The conference was a good break first time in my life. 

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Confucius mural in Taipei Street

 

Mural Monday event features an Asian theme of an old wise man. 

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Tamshui Taipei Taiwan for Sunday Best

 

This is near the river mouth in Taipei district. It looks somewhere in a tropical island. In fact, it is next to ugly concrete jungle. 

An illusion

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Sunday Best

Samurai possessed for Mural Monday

 

This is a Japanese themed mural Spotted in Taipei

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Mural Monday