[1] Prior to Han Chinese settlement, the area was home to the Kimassauw community (麻少翁社) of the Taiwanese indigenous peoples.

During the Qing era, a fort was set up, later called Zhilan Yi Bao (first fort/settlement of Pattsiran, 芝蘭一堡).

In 1945 after World War II, it was modified to Shilin Township (士林鎭), Taipei County (臺北縣).

Shilin is foremost a residential district and has several famous neighborhoods, such as Waishuangxi (外雙溪) and Tianmu.

Tourist attractions include: The Tatun Volcanic Group is located northeast of the district.