Travel Taipei

A very large tobacco factory complex converted into a modern art and design center with multiple buildings in a lovely landscaped setting and ecology pond. Interesting shops ranging from pottery to crafts to fine arts illustrating the past present and highlighting the potential future. With the gift store and a bookstore, this place is a one-stop shopping for souvenirs. Ecology pond is a large lotus pond with the goal where children can enjoy the sounds of frogs and insects and experience the beauty of ecology. It makes this place ideal for relaxation and mediation. If you like to wander in and out of shops and explore what is the next idea or concept around the next corner or building, you should allow more than one hour for an INTERESTING and FASCINATING ADVENTURE ... at the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park.

During the Japanese colonial era (1895-1945) this tobacco factory was an important part of the colonial administration, as the tobacco tax raised revenue to keep the government functioning. When Taiwan was returned to the Republic of China, the same thing applied, and the tobacco factory produced revenue for the government. It was shut down only in 1998, when it ceased producing cigarettes, mainly due to declining demand. It has many interesting features, including the Baroque Garden, with a fountain with naked ladies emerging from their baths.

We walked here after visiting Dr Sun Yat Sen memorial hall. The park has lots of green and scattered around the various buildings were many sculptures, unique stores, cafes and creative arts. When we were there, there were various events and a flea market.

松山文創園區包括舊松山菸廠古蹟建築以及新建的台北文創大樓，舊菸廠倉庫是台北僅次於華山文創園區的藝文展演重地，這次來也是為了看展覽。舊菸廠是日本在台工業建築的典範，文創大樓就是一棟有誠品進駐的百貨商場，室和逛街、用餐。

カフェから駅に戻る途中で見つけて行ってみました。駅から少し距離があり、観光スポットという感じではありませんが、のんびり散歩やウインドーショッピングをしたり、おしゃれなデザインの台湾土産を探すにはいいと思います。デパートや雑貨店、カフェ、本屋さんなどが集まっています。