Anping

Anping is a district in Tainan City, Taiwan. It lies on the western coast of the city, facing the Taijiang Inland Sea, and forms a historic core of Tainan with a long maritime and trading legacy.

History and development: In the early 17th century, the Dutch built Fort Zeelandia at Anping, making it the administrative center of Dutch Formosa. The fort fell to Ming loyalist forces led by Koxinga in 1662, and the area subsequently came under Qing rule. Over the centuries, Anping developed as a fishing and trading port, with its harbor and waterfront area shaping commerce and daily life. The district continued to evolve through Japanese rule and into the modern era, remaining an important urban and cultural precinct within Tainan.

Landmarks and culture: The site of Fort Zeelandia remains a central historic attraction, with ruins and exhibits that reflect the colonial era. The Anping Tree House, a former warehouse now enveloped by a banyan tree, is another well-known point of interest. Anping Old Street preserves historical architecture and offers local foods and crafts, contributing to the district’s tourist appeal. The harbor and surrounding streets accommodate maritime activity, markets, and residential areas that reflect a blend of old and new.

Economy and transport: Today, Anping’s economy includes fishing, small-scale commerce, and tourism, with the port area still active for maritime use. The district is connected to central Tainan by road and public transit routes, making it a common destination for visitors exploring the city’s history and coastal landscape.