
Tainan (台南) is the historic capital of Taiwan. The Dutch established a fort and trading post at Anping in the early 17th century but were expelled by the pirate-king Koxinga, a Ming dynasty loyalist, in 1662. An independent polity, the Kingdom of Tungning, only lasted 30 years before it was absorbed by the Qing, who governed western Taiwan with disinterest for the next two centuries. The capital was moved to Taipei shortly before Taiwan was integrated into the Empire of Japan but its cultural importance has never waned. It remains a popular destination for anyone interested in its rich history, vintage vibe, and renowned culinary specialties.