Source: CCTV.com

04-20-2009 16:19

Taipei － Simenting

The name of Simenting came from the period of Japanese colonization. At that time most local residents live within Taipei City. Simenting is the center for recreation. In 1896, the first theater "Tokyo Stand" was set up. In 1922, the place was officially called Simenting.

In early years, the main business activity in Simenting was going to cinema theater. At that time, most cinema theaters are on E-mei Street, Chengdu Road and Shining S. Road. They were the center of Simenting's development. After the central government of R.O.C. was reinstated in Taiwan in 1949, a large sum of capital was poured into Simenting. Other than cinema theaters, there were department stores and other entertainment attractions. After the completion of Junghua Business Buildings, Simenting became the largest business and entertainment center in the country.

In 1990s, the business and entertainment activities of Taipei gradually shifted to East District. Later, Junghua Business Buildings were torn down for road construction. Simenting became silent for a while. Then, MRT Pan Nan Line was completed. Junghua Road was converted to be a prosperous main street under the planning of Taipei City Government. Furthermore, there are many emerging squares and activity locations. On holidays and at weekends, people gather here for art, culture events or sports, music performance. The business opportunities and people are coming back to Simenting.

Simenting not only is a witness to history, but also a leader of trend for the new generation. Many middle age or senior people with nostalgia come here to reminisce. The young people come here for fashion. Two totally different life styles meet here. Simenting fulfills the needs of different groups of people.