Our 326th entry in our digital diary is our trip to Anping Tree House in Tainan City, Taiwan.

It is located in Anping District, Tainan City, behind the Former Tait & Co. Merchant House.

The name “Tree House” comes from the banyan trees whose roots and branches have completely enveloped the building, creating a unique natural-architectural fusion.

Built in the late 19th century during the Qing Dynasty as a warehouse for Tait & Co., a British trading company dealing in sugar, camphor, and tea.

After Japan took control of Taiwan in 1895, the building became a salt warehouse under the Japan Salt Company.

Post-WWII, it was used by the Tainan Salt Works, then abandoned for decades.

Over time, banyan trees grew over the structure, turning it into a surreal, nature-infused ruin. In 2004, the Tainan City Government renovated it with wood and metal walkways and viewing platforms, making it a major tourist attraction as part of the National Anping Harbor Historic Park.

The banyan roots cover the walls, roof, and floor, creating an appearance similar to Ta Prohm Temple in Angkor Wat. Elevated skywalks and platforms allow visitors to explore the treetop canopy and view the entire site.

Houses the Taiwan Development Historical Materials Wax Museum. Exhibits in the Ground floor: History of immigrants and early life in Taiwan.

Upper floor: Wax figures depicting humans, animals, and artifacts from Taiwan’s development.

Time Corridor Exhibits: Added in 2001 to showcase the growth of Tait & Co. and Anping’s trade history.

Many tours and activities in the Anping area include feeding fish in ponds or canals, especially near Lin Mo-Niang Park and Anping Canal Cruise areas, which are close to the Old Street and historic houses.

Some local shops and cultural spots along Anping Old Street offer small fish ponds where visitors can feed koi or goldfish as part of a family-friendly experience. This is often combined with tea houses or souvenir shops for a relaxing break.

This area is around 8–20 minutes from Tainan Station, depending on traffic. Estimated fare: NT$200–300. But we came here as part of the tour group for our school’s educational trip to Taiwan. 🙂

There was also a nearby running field where Sai and Papa Dave raced with what’s left of their energies. hehe. And that is our quick trip to Anping Tree House in Tainan. 🙂