With its quirky art installations and quaint streets, Anping offers a glimpse into the traditions and cultures of old-world Taiwan. The district jutting out from the island’s western shoreline contains numerous forts, castles and temples. Visit Anping’s many museums to learn about the fascinating Dutch colonial history of this former outpost.

Browse in the market stalls and souvenir shops of busy Old Anping Street. At its western end lies one of the region’s highlights, the Anping Old Fort (Fort Zeelandia). Climb up the redbrick steps and spot the many cannons around this 17th-century Dutch building. Explore the museum for its intriguing exhibits on the period of Dutch occupation.

Walk a few minutes to the Anping Tree House, where an extraordinary tangle of branches from an enormous banyan tree appears to have consumed a former warehouse.

Continue admiring the European style of architecture with a trip to the Old Julius Mannich Merchant House, which today serves as a beer garden. Sip beverages between the arches of the elegant brick colonnade.

Just southwest of these sights is Anping Harbor. Pick out your favorites from the rows of colorful boats and relax with a stroll along the water.

Head through the vast National Anping Harbor Historical Park and reach the Eternal Golden Castle, a 19th-century fortress built to stave off Japanese invasions. Here, you’ll also find the Sunset Platform, where kids fly kites and couples watch the sunset.

The district lies in the western outreaches of Tainan. From the city center, drive west for 4 miles (6 kilometers) to reach the heart of the area. You can also travel by bus to one of the stops in this zone.

While in the city, make sure to explore other interesting areas such as the North District, the South District and the Yongkang District.