The Beating Heart of Taipei - Hsimenting

The Red Mansion landmark in the Hsimenting district was built in 1908, and was one of the earliest entertainment venues in Taipei.[Photo/CRIENGLISH.com]

When Taiwan was colonized by Japan, city planners designated Hsimenting as an area to be developed as a business and entertainment hub, similar to the Asakusabashi area of Tokyo. From the 1930s, the district began to emerge as a cradle for theaters and movie stars. Renowned Taiwan actress Brigitte Lin was discovered by a talent scout while she was shopping with friends on the streets of Hsimenting. Now, there are more than twenty cinemas dotted throughout the district.