We got to the Red House unexpectedly. We came into the Ximending area not knowing it was so close to our hotel. As we were looking for the Ximen MRT station, a red-brick octagonal building that looked interesting came into view. We decided to take a closer look and crossed the street. Only then did we realize that we have already chanced upon the Red House.
It was built in 1908 and was Taiwan’s first market. It’s unique architecture, which combines the octagonal and cruciform shapes, is not commonly found anywhere. Now, it is managed by the Taipei Culture Foundation and houses a tea shop, a boutique area, a theater, and central display area.
Their information center has several brochures and reading materials that aided us in our exploration of Taipei. The upper floor, where the theater was located, housed an exhibit at that time. Postcards, magnets and other souvenir items were on display and for sale at their boutique shop.
The Red House is a historical landmark as well as a commercial attraction. Located at No. 10 Chengdu Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 9:30 pm.
For more information, you may e-mail them at [email protected] or visit their website http://www.redhouse.org.tw. To see more photos of our visit, check my Facebook page Red House album. Read other blog posts on my Taiwan trip here.
