Yingge

The basics

The story goes that Yingge’s association with ceramics began over two centuries ago, when a man named Wu An, a potter from Guangzhou, China, settled in the area. The Yingge of today is a credit to that initial ingenuity: Home to pottery plants, shops, and vendors, as well as the Yingge Ceramics Museum, it’s a destination for ceramic decorative pieces and housewares. Today, shoppers flock to Jianshanpu Road—colloquially known as Yingge Old Street—to pick up souvenirs.

Given its proximity from central Taipei, Yingge is easy to visit on an independent day trip. It’s included on some tours from Taipei as well, which also visit surrounding historic landmarks and shopping destinations.

Things to know before you go

• Beyond street vendors, head to the multistory Yingge Ceramics Mall to purchase special, artisan-made pieces.

• Check for locally made products if you’re looking for an authentic Yingge piece: some vendors sell imported ceramics instead.

• The Yingge Ceramics Museum, the first ceramics museum in Taiwan, is perfect for history buffs and those looking to learn more about ceramic techniques.

How to get there

Yingge is 21 miles (33 kilometers) southwest of central Taipei, about a 30-minute drive via National Highway No. 3. If using public transportation, trains from Songshan Station stop directly at Yingge Station, and the district is also served by the F653A bus.

When to get there

The Yingge Ceramics Museum is open daily (except the first Monday of the month), and most ceramics vendors operate according to typical daytime hours, closing in the early evening. The most popular time to visit is during the Yingge Ceramics Festival in October.

New Taipei City attractions

A number of other cultural sights can be found within the vicinity of Yingge. Nearby Sanxia, another historic district, also has an Old Street and ceramic traditions, as well as Qingshui Zushi Temple, renowned for its striking ornamentation. In addition, the Erbazi Botanical Garden offers a scenic place to hike.