The name of Ximending came from the period of Japanese colonization. At that time most local residents live within Taipei City. Ximending is the center for recreation. In 1896, the first theater "Tokyo Stand" was set up. In 1922, the place was officially called Ximending.
In early years, the main business activity in Ximending was going to cinema theater. At that time, most cinema theaters are on E'mei Street, Chengdu Road and Xining S. Road. They were the center of Ximending's development. After the central government of R.O.C. was reinstated in Taiwan in 1949, a large sum of capital was poured into Ximending.
Other than cinema theaters, there were department stores and other entertainment attractions. After the completion of Zhonghua Business Buildings, Ximending became the largest business and entertainment center in the country.
Ximending is a very popular shopping area in Taipei. It was the first pedestrian zone in Taiwan. When I took my mom to Ximen she surprised and said that it has changed a lot. Apparently back then it use to be somewhat similar to the night markets and it was very crowded and dirty. But now there is a paved walkway that is fenced off to only pedestrians. America’s got talent? Taiwan does too! In my opinion, Ximending is the most talent filled and culture filled shopping area in Taipei.
On top of the typical trendy clothes, shoes, and food, Ximending is a stage for young and old musicians and artists. Coming out of the MRT station you can see a various bands playing across the street. Ximending has been called the “Harajuku of Taipei” and the “Shibuya of Taipei.”
If you see something you like, buy it quick! Vendors on the street normally don’t have a license to sell on the sidewalk so at first sign of police they pack up their things and make a run for it.
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