Taiwan has been the backdrop for numerous popular and critically acclaimed movies/dramas over the years. Each location offers its unique charm and provides a visually captivating backdrop for storytelling. Here are some famous movie and drama filming locations in Taiwan:
Datong District (大同區)
Dadaocheng (大稻埕) is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The area is filled with well-preserved traditional buildings, narrow alleys, and historical landmarks. The blend of old-world charm and vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for period dramas or stories that require a nostalgic backdrop. Furthermore, Dadaocheng features a mix of architectural styles, including Japanese, Baroque, and Qing Dynasty influences. The diverse range of buildings, from traditional shophouses to Western-style structures, offers filmmakers a wide range of options to create visually compelling scenes and settings.
In 2021, Netflix launched the 24-episode “Light the Night” (華燈初上) drama thriller series around the neighborhood of Tiaotong. It is an emotionally intense murder thriller at a Japanese style nightclub in 1980s Taipei. Even today, we can see the Japanese style atmosphere in most of Datong District’s restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Visit our day tour of Dadaocheng if you are interested in sighting famous Taiwanese drama filming locations.
National Palace Museum (故宮博物院)
The National Palace Museum in Taipei is renowned for its extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts. It has been used as a filming location for dramas that require a touch of cultural heritage and elegance.
Yangmingshan National Park (陽明山國家公園)
Yangmingshan National Park, situated in northern Taipei, is a popular filming location due to its diverse natural beauty. The park features hot springs, hiking trails, flower fields, and stunning vistas, making it a great setting for romantic and outdoor scenes.
“Mulan” (2020) – Although the story is set in ancient China, parts of the live-action adaptation of Mulan (木蘭) were filmed in Taiwan. The film utilized locations such as Yangmingshan National Park and the Wulai District in New Taipei City.
Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf (淡水漁人碼頭)
Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf, situated in New Taipei City’s Tamsui District, is a picturesque location often featured in Taiwanese dramas. Its beautiful waterfront, stunning sunsets, and romantic atmosphere make it a favorite choice for filmmakers.
In 2001, Taiwanese romantic drama, “Millennium Mambo” (千禧曼波), directed by Hou Hsiao-Hsien, this drama was filmed in Taipei, featuring iconic locations such as the Taipei 101 skyscraper, Ximending area, and Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf.
Jiufen Old Street (九份老街)
Jiufen Old Street, located in New Taipei City, is a famous filming location that has appeared in several Taiwanese dramas. Its traditional buildings and narrow alleys offer a nostalgic and atmospheric setting.
Ximending (西門町)
Ximending, a vibrant and bustling neighborhood in Taipei, was also used as a filming location. The area’s streets and theaters were recreated to represent the atmosphere of the time period depicted in the film.
The movie “A City of Sadness” (悲情城市), directed by Hou Hsiao-Hsien, is a critically acclaimed Taiwanese film released in 1989. The film portrays a historical period in Taiwan known as the White Terror, and it primarily takes place in Taipei, such as National Taiwan University, Wanhua District, Jiufen Old Street, Ximending, Dadaocheng.
National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (國立中正紀念堂)
The iconic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is featured in several scenes of “Someday or One Day“, serving as a significant location. The memorial hall and its surroundings provide a grand and symbolic backdrop for the storyline.
Shilin Night Market (士林夜市)
Shilin Night Market is one of Taipei’s most famous night markets. The bustling market streets, food stalls, and vibrant atmosphere provide a backdrop for the characters’ interactions.
The Taiwanese drama “Someday or One Day” (想見你) is primarily set in Taipei, and many of its key scenes were filmed in various locations around the city. Including Taipei Expo Park (花博公園), National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Shilin Night Market, and Good Food Spirit Cafe. In addition, Taipei City College (臺北城市科技大學) serves as the fictional “National Taipei University” in the drama. Some campus scenes and classrooms were filmed in this location.
Sun Moon Lake (日月潭)
Sun Moon Lake, located in Nantou County, is one of Taiwan’s most famous natural attractions. It offers stunning views of the lake, mountains, and surrounding forests. The tranquil beauty of Sun Moon Lake has made it a popular choice for movies and dramas.
The movie filmed at Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan is called “Life of Pi” (2012). Directed by Ang Lee, the film is based on the novel of the same name by Yann Martel. Sun Moon Lake served as one of the filming locations for the beautiful and visually stunning scenes depicting the protagonist’s journey. The lake’s picturesque landscape and tranquil ambiance added to the film’s captivating visuals.
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