Once the largest city in Tainan County, Yongkang has now merged with the former Taiwanese capital to become one of its districts. It sprawls to the northeast of the city centre and Tainan’s historic Dutch fort, having emerged as an important migrant city due to its manufacturing and food-processing industries.

Things to do

The Yongkang District is an excellent home base for visiting the National Museum of Taiwan History, located in neighbouring Annan. It details the country’s indigenous cultures, as well as Dutch, Spanish, Chinese, British and Japanese influences through multimedia installations and engaging exhibits.

Experience Taiwan’s colonial history first-hand by making the short trip into Anping to wander its historic Old Fort area, lined with 17th-century houses and Buddhist temples.

For an alternative look at the Yongkang District, head to the Taiwan Metal Creation Museum which celebrates the area’s industrial heritage. Learn about the role of metal and witness impressive installations in its landscape garden.

If you’re looking for entertainment after dark, why not visit the Yongda Night Market? There’s a great selection of Taiwanese street food to sample, as well as locally-made souvenirs.

Getting around

The Yongkang District is about a 20-minute drive north of Tainan Airport and connected to the city by regular train services. Local buses and taxis are plentiful for getting around the district, while scooter rentals are also available near the main train station.