Dadaocheng Old Town: One-Day Trip
Upon staying in Taipei, be sure to step into one of the city’s most historically rich neighborhoods. Stroll among century-old commercial streets, historic residences, and temple-lined alleys, and experience the changing splendor of Dadaocheng—from a major tea-trading hub to a cultural and creative district. From the traditional dried-goods culture of Dihua Street and the legendary fabric trade of Yongle Market, to the incense-filled devotion of Taipei Xia-Hai City God Temple and the riverside sunset at Dadaocheng Wharf, you can immerse yourself in the most captivating cultural scenery of Taipei’s old city in just one day.
Whether you love history and culture, distinctive cuisine, cafés in old residences, or want to experience Taipei’s laid-back travel atmosphere, a day trip to Dadaocheng is an excellent choice. It is a popular route among travelers planning independent trips to Taipei, couples looking for a date, families enjoying a stroll, and photography enthusiasts.
One-Day Itinerary:
In the morning, visit [Dihua Street] and stroll among the red-brick shophouses and Baroque-style façade buildings, experiencing the historical charm of Dadaocheng’s century-old commercial district. The neighborhood is home to tea shops, traditional Chinese medicine stores, long-established dried-goods shops, creative lifestyle stores, and distinctive cafés. Whether you want to purchase Taiwanese souvenirs, savor local snacks, or photograph the nostalgic streetscapes, you can leisurely explore the culture of Taipei’s old town.
At noon, visit [Yongle Market], whose first floor brings together classic traditional snacks such as Lin He Fa oily rice and Minle swordfish rice noodles. The second and third floors are home to Taiwan’s largest wholesale and retail fabric center. For a more leisurely experience, explore Dadaocheng’s heritage restaurants and historic teahouses, housed in charming old buildings and perfect for lunch and hand-brewed coffee.
In the afternoon, visit the [Taipei Xia-Hai City God Temple], a temple with more than a century of history and one of Dadaocheng’s most iconic cultural landmarks. The temple’s Yue Lao deity also attracts many travelers from Taiwan and abroad who come to pray for a favorable romantic relationship. After paying your respects, continue strolling through the surrounding lanes to admire the well-preserved historic district and distinctive shops, and experience Dadaocheng’s blend of old and new.
In the early evening, head to [Dadaocheng Wharf]. You can ride a YouBike along the Tamsui River and enjoy the cool river breeze, or visit [Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market] directly. Surrounded by international cuisine, light meals, beer, and music, gaze across at the skyline on the opposite bank and admire Taipei’s most iconic sunset over the Tamsui River, followed by a dazzling night view.
Stay in Taipei, Explore More in a Day!
Whether you are seeking an in-depth cultural tour, planning a date with your significant other, or traveling independently as a lover of retro aesthetics, you can set out from the hotel and connect Dihua Street, Yongle Market, Taipei Xia-Hai City God Temple, and Dadaocheng Wharf to experience traditional commercial streets, old-house cuisine, religious culture, and riverside scenery all in one trip.
Stay at Hamp Court Palace Taipei to easily plan itineraries around Taipei City and nearby attractions while enjoying a convenient and comfortable stay in Taipei.
*Image source: Taipei Travel Website