Mini Cultural Trips in Taipei

As the largest administrative district in Taipei, this area was originally home to the Pingpu tribe’s “Mashao'ong Settlement.” During the late Ming and early Qing periods, Han settlers arrived and began cultivating the land. Due to its abundance of orchids, the area was initially called "Lanlin" (Orchid Forest). In the mid-Qing period, it was renamed "Zhilan" and later became known as "Bazhilan." Toward the end of the Qing dynasty, as local education flourished and many scholars emerged, the name was changed to "Shilin," meaning "a forest of scholars." Historically renowned for its "Eight Scenic Spots of Zhilan," the district today combines historic sites, cultural landmarks, national parks, and its famous night market, making it a popular tourist destination.