【Tainan Retro Stroll Day Trip】Confucius Temple & Lin Department Store & Shennong Street & Chihkan Tower & Garden Night Market | Departs from Tainan City via High Speed ​​Rail | Exclusive Chinese and Japanese Guides

Tainan Confucius Temple is primarily dedicated to the veneration of Confucius, the revered Chinese philosopher, educator, and politician. It serves as a significant cultural and historical site where visitors can explore the principles of Confucianism and appreciate traditional architectural styles. The temple was also historically a central hub for learning and traditional education in Taiwan, offering insights into the island's scholarly heritage.

Tainan Confucius Temple holds the distinguished title of being the oldest Confucius temple in Taiwan, established in 1665 by Chen Yonghua, a key advisor to Koxinga. It also housed Taiwan's first official school, known as Taixue or the National Academy, which earned it the moniker "First Academy of Taiwan." Its establishment marked a pivotal moment in the promotion of Confucian education and culture on the island, symbolizing its early integration into broader Chinese cultural influences. The temple's well-preserved traditional Fujianese architecture further enhances its historical value.

Tainan Confucius Temple is revered as a significant cultural landmark due to its profound historical role as Taiwan's earliest Confucius temple and former national academy. It was instrumental in shaping the island's educational and cultural landscape. Beyond its historical depth and classical architecture, the temple continues to host important annual Confucian ceremonies, such as the Grand Ceremony of Confucius' Birthday. These elements collectively underscore its status as a major cultural site that embodies Taiwan's rich traditional heritage and enduring reverence for scholarship.

Hayashi Department Store is renowned for its carefully curated selection of unique Taiwanese and Tainan-specific souvenirs, artisanal crafts, and cultural products. Visitors can discover a variety of items including locally designed apparel, exquisite ceramic goods, traditional Tainan snacks, specialty tea blends, and retro-themed gifts that beautifully echo the building's historical charm. The store actively supports local brands and artists, making it an excellent destination to find distinctive items that truly encapsulate the essence of Tainan's creative and cultural spirit.

Hayashi Department Store was named after its founder, Hayashi Hyohei. It was established in 1932 during the Japanese colonial period, quickly becoming one of Tainan's first modern department stores and a symbol of contemporary life. The building itself is an architectural gem, preserving the distinctive Japanese colonial style, and notably housed Taiwan's first elevator. Following extensive restoration, it has reopened, retaining its original name to honor its rich historical legacy while serving as a vibrant cultural and shopping destination.

The optimal time to visit Shennong Street to fully immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere is typically in the late afternoon or early evening. As dusk settles, the street's distinctive red lanterns begin to glow, casting a warm, nostalgic light that enhances its picturesque charm. During these hours, many of the artisanal shops, cozy cafes, and quaint bars open their doors, bringing the street to life. This period allows visitors to enjoy both the historical architecture and the lively, artistic cultural scene.

On Shennong Street, visitors can delve into Tainan's traditional culture by exploring the remarkably preserved Qing Dynasty architecture, which now thoughtfully houses a variety of creative businesses. You can browse unique handicrafts, visit small art galleries showcasing local talent, savor a cup of coffee or a traditional Tainan snack at a charming cafe, and search for distinctive souvenirs. As evening approaches, the street transforms, with cozy bars opening, offering a delightful blend of historical charm and a vibrant modern artistic flair.

While Shennong Street itself is an open thoroughfare accessible at any time, the operating hours for individual shops, cafes, and bars along the street can vary. Generally, most establishments tend to open in the late morning or early afternoon, typically around 11:00 AM or 1:00 PM. They usually remain open until late evening, often past 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, especially on weekends and public holidays. To experience the street at its most vibrant, visiting in the afternoon or evening is highly recommended, as most businesses will be in full swing.