Annan District combines urban appeal with pristine natural beauty. The district is set on the northern side of Tainan and is characterised by lush wetlands and tidal flats. Explore a centuries-old Dutch fort, enjoy a raft ride through a sun-dappled mangrove forest and visit the excellent National Museum of Taiwan History.
Things to do in Annan District
At the southern end of Annan District, Anping Fort was built by the Dutch in the 1600s. Also known as Fort Zeelandia, the stronghold features soaring red-brick walls, supposedly reinforced with crushed oyster shells. The small on-site museum charts the history of Dutch rule in Taiwan.
The National Museum of Taiwan History occupies a striking contemporary building and is filled with artefacts that chart the rich history, heritage and culture of the country. You can learn about Indigenous Taiwanese populations, traditional farming and the Dutch occupation.
Bamboo rafts take you into the enchanting Sicao Green Tunnel mangrove forest. The rafts glide along the water and under the lush “tunnel” formed by the mangrove trees. As you sail through the tunnel, keep your eyes peeled for hermit crabs and mudskippers on the banks.
Further south, Taijiang National Park protects lagoons, mangrove swamps, wetlands and tidal flats. Scenic cycling trails wind through the park and are a great way to explore the sanctuary. Kayaking tours through the mangroves take you deep into the heart of the park. If you’re lucky, you might spot endangered black-faced spoonbills.
Tainan is brimming with restaurants where you can sample an array of local cuisines. Specialty dishes include Danzai noodles made with a pork-and-shrimp broth, Taiwanese meatball soup and braised pork.
Getting around Annan District
Taxis are a fast and comfortable way to get around Annan District. The district is a 30-minute drive from the Tainan city centre and 40 minutes from Tainan Airport.