Introduction to Dihua Street
Dihua Street is one of the oldest and most culturally rich areas in Taipei. Located in the Datong District, this street has been a vital hub for commerce, trade, and traditional life since the Qing Dynasty. With its well-preserved architecture and centuries-old shops, Dihua Street offers visitors a journey back in time, blending heritage with the vibrant energy of modern Taipei.
Architectural Charm & Heritage
The street’s architecture is a fascinating mix of Baroque Revival, Southern Fujian, and Japanese colonial styles. Many of the buildings have been carefully restored, with intricate facades, wooden doors, and inner courtyards.
Walking through the street is like stepping into a living museum where old shophouses now serve as cafés, art galleries, tea shops, and boutiques.
Lunar New Year Market Madness
Dihua Street is particularly famous for its bustling Lunar New Year Market. In the weeks leading up to the holiday, the entire street transforms into a festive corridor filled with traditional snacks, red decorations, herbal medicine, and gift items.
The lively atmosphere, complete with street performances and cultural demonstrations, draws thousands of locals and tourists alike.
A Hub for Traditional Crafts and Goods
Known historically for its role in the herbal medicine and dried goods trade, Dihua Street still maintains a strong identity as a place to find authentic Taiwanese products. Visitors can browse shops selling tea, Chinese medicines, dried seafood, textiles, and more.
The street is also a center for traditional craftsmanship, including fabric dyeing, incense making, and paper goods.
Café Culture and Creative Revival
While Dihua Street respects its historical roots, it has also embraced innovation. Many young entrepreneurs have moved in, opening design studios, craft stores, and hip cafés that breathe new life into the street.
The blend of old and new creates a unique atmosphere, where you can sip modern lattes in a 100-year-old building or discover local designer goods in a restored shophouse.
A Must-Visit for Culture Lovers
Dihua Street isn’t just a place to shop or take photos—it’s a cultural experience. From its architecture and historical significance to the traditions that continue to thrive here, the street captures the essence of Taiwan’s evolution.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a curious traveler, Dihua Street promises a meaningful and memorable stop on your Taipei itinerary.
Where Old Meets New
Today, Dihua Street stands as a beautifully preserved slice of old Taipei, seamlessly blending its traditional roots with modern creativity. Dihua Street has transformed into a vibrant cultural destination that blends traditional Taiwanese craftsmanship with modern art, making it a must-visit location for both locals and tourists.
The street is especially vibrant during the Lunar New Year period, when the area becomes a bustling marketplace filled with decorations, traditional foods, and festive activities.
The street is also home to art galleries, local boutiques, and handicraft shops, offering a range of products from traditional Chinese crafts to contemporary art. This blend of old and new gives Dihua Street a unique charm, making it a great place to explore Taiwan’s history, culture, and modern creativity.
▼ Dihua Street Ten Buildings
Hotels or Hostels in Taipei Near Dihua Street
Full-Day Taipei Itinerary
- 09:00 – Start at Longshan Temple
Begin your Taipei adventure at Longshan Temple, one of the oldest and most iconic temples in Taiwan. Built in 1738, this temple showcases traditional Taiwanese architecture and houses deities from Buddhist, Taoist, and folk religions.
It’s the perfect spot to witness local spiritual life and light some incense for good luck.
MRT: Take the Blue Line to Longshan Temple Station (龍山寺站), Exit 1
- 10:00 – Explore Bopiliao Historical Block
Just a short walk from Longshan Temple, Bopiliao Historical Block preserves 18th to early 20th-century buildings. Walk through its brick-lined streets and explore heritage shops, educational exhibits, and cultural art spaces that tell stories of old Taipei.
Walk: Just 2–3 minutes from Longshan Temple
- 10:40 – Head to The Red House & Ximending
Take the MRT or walk to The Red House, a century-old Western-style market turned creative arts center. Located in the heart of Ximending, this area is Taipei’s youth culture hub, known for its fashion, street art, and independent boutiques.
Walk: Just 15 minutes from Bopiliao Historical Block to The Red House
or
MRT: Walk to Longshan Temple Station → Blue Line to Ximen Station (西門站), Exit 1
Tip: Red House opens around 11:00 a.m., and many shops in Ximending open after 11:00 as well.
- 12:00 – Lunch at Ximending Walking District
Enjoy lunch in Ximending, often dubbed the “Harajuku of Taipei.” Choose from local street food stalls or sit down at themed cafés and trendy restaurants. Try Taiwanese classics like braised pork rice, beef noodles, or bubble tea from the original Chun Shui Tang.
Suggestions: Try Ah Zhong Mian Xian (阿宗麵線) or sip on a local milk tea.
- 13:30 – Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
After lunch, head to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a majestic national monument surrounded by wide plazas and elegant Chinese gardens. Don’t miss the changing of the honor guard, and take time to explore the museum beneath the memorial hall.
MRT: From Ximen Station (Green Line) → Get off at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station, Exit 5
Tip: Watch the Changing of the Guard every hour (usually 9 a.m.–5 p.m.).
- 15:00 – Dihua Street
Explore historic Dihua Street, known for its baroque-style architecture, herbal medicine shops, tea stores, and emerging creative boutiques. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or enjoy a cup of traditional Taiwanese tea.
MRT: From CKS Memorial Hall (Green Line) → Get off at Beimen Station, Exit 3
Walk: 7–10 minutes to Dihua Street
- 17:30 – Sunset & Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market
Walk to nearby Dadaocheng Wharf, where you can watch the sunset over the Tamsui River. Grab a drink or snack at the container market, featuring food trucks, pop-up shops, and scenic riverside vibes.
Walk: 10–12 minutes west from Dihua Street
Tip: Visit during golden hour for stunning riverfront views and drinks from the container bars.
- 19:00 – Dinner at Nanjichang Night Market
End your day at Nanjichang Night Market, a more local and less touristy night market famous for pan-fried buns, sesame chicken soup, and rice noodles. It’s a true taste of Taipei’s neighborhood night food scene.
Walk: 10 minutes to the night market
A Self-Guided Walking Tour
Discover history, heritage, and hidden gems on foot
Looking to explore one of Taipei’s most culturally rich neighborhoods at your own pace? This self-guided walking tour through Dihua Street and the Dadaocheng area is the perfect way to experience old Taipei. From historic temples and tea shops to creative boutiques and river views, this 2–4 hour route takes you through the best of this beautifully preserved district.
Walking Route Overview
- Distance: About 2-4 kilometers
- Time Needed: 2–4 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or early afternoons for smaller crowds
Start: Beimen MRT Station (Green Line, G13)
1. Beimen (North Gate)
Kick off your tour at the historic North Gate—one of Taipei’s last remaining city gates. It’s a striking remnant of the old city walls and a great introduction to the historic atmosphere of Dadaocheng.
2. Xiahai City God Temple
Walk 10 minutes to this vibrant temple, famous for its matchmaking deity. Many locals come here to pray for love, and it’s a fascinating place to watch traditional rituals and offerings in action.
3. Dihua Street
Next, stroll along the length of Dihua Street—lined with restored shophouses selling herbal medicines, dried goods, fabrics, and handmade crafts. Pop into indie boutiques and cozy cafés, or simply admire the beautifully preserved architecture dating back over a century.
The farthest you can go is Building 10, Dihua Street, then walk along the overpass (here) to the riverside trail, and continue to Dadaocheng Wharf to watch the sunset.
4. Yongle Market
Step inside this bustling market that has been the go-to spot for fabrics, tailor shops, and traditional goods for decades. The second floor is especially famous for textiles, while the food stalls nearby are great for a quick local snack.
5. Dadaocheng Wharf
End your journey with a relaxing riverside walk. Dadaocheng Wharf is perfect for catching sunset views over the Tamsui River. On weekends, you might even find live music, bike rentals, or cultural events along the promenade.
Tip: You can also use Google Maps and search “Dihua Street” to follow the landmarks mentioned above.
This walking tour offers a glimpse into a quieter, more charming side of Taipei—one where the old world and the new sit side by side. Whether you’re here for the culture, the shopping, or just to wander, Dihua Street is an unforgettable part of the city worth exploring on foot.
What to Eat in Dihua Street
Amid the bustle of historic Dihua Street, where heritage buildings and bustling markets define the landscape, you’ll find moments of calm tucked into charming cafés and traditional tea houses. These cozy spots are the perfect place to slow down, sip something warm, and soak in the nostalgic beauty of old Taipei.
Many are housed in restored century-old shophouses, blending rustic architecture with minimalist interiors, vintage décor, or creative design touches that reflect the district’s blend of old and new.
Mikkeller Bar Taipei (米凱樂啤酒吧)
Mikkeller Bar Taipei brings the globally recognized Danish craft beer brand to Taiwan with a hip and cozy venue tucked in Da’an District. With over a dozen rotating taps featuring Mikkeller’s signature brews and collaborations with local breweries, it’s a haven for beer enthusiasts and those looking for an eclectic drinking experience. The interior is minimalist yet warm, ideal for both casual meetups and beer tasting nights.
WOSOM ASW Teahouse & Bar (沃森茶酒館)
Blending traditional Taiwanese tea culture with modern mixology, WOSOM ASW is a stylish teahouse by day and an experimental cocktail bar by night. Located in a repurposed historic building, it merges elegance with innovation, creating drinks that infuse oolong, puerh, and other teas with premium spirits. The space exudes a refined atmosphere perfect for those who appreciate creative drinks with a cultural twist.
Li He Fa Oil Rice Shop (林合發油飯店)
A beloved local gem with decades of history, Li He Fa is famous for its traditional Taiwanese oil rice (you fan) – a sticky, savory dish packed with mushrooms, pork, and peanuts.
Known for its authenticity and nostalgic flavors, this shop has been a go-to for locals seeking comfort food that feels like home. It’s also a popular choice for festival offerings and family gatherings.
Opening Hours: 07:30–13:00(Closed Mondays)
Wan Long Sashimi Shop (丸隆生魚行)
Located inside Yongle Market in the historic Dadaocheng area, Wan Long Sashimi Shop is a beloved seafood stall known for its ultra-fresh sashimi at surprisingly reasonable prices. Frequented by locals who know where to find quality, the shop offers thick, cleanly sliced cuts of salmon, tuna, uni, and scallops.
Despite its modest setting within the market, it delivers a top-tier sashimi experience that rivals upscale sushi bars.
With a low minimum spend of just NT$250, you get unlimited miso soup. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors right in the heart of one of Taipei’s most historic markets.
Opening Hours: 09:00–15:00(Closed Mondays)
Du Hsiao Yueh Dihua Branch (度小月台北迪化店)
A historic brand dating back to 1895, Du Hsiao Yueh is known for its danzai noodles, served in a flavorful broth with minced pork and shrimp. The Dihua branch adds extra charm with its location in Taipei’s heritage-rich Dadaocheng area, offering a nostalgic atmosphere that complements the classic dishes. The setting is both cultural and culinary, bridging past and present.
Yao De He Qingcao Hao (姚德和青草號)
This old-school herb shop and drink stand in the heart of Taipei has been a go-to for traditional herbal remedies and cooling teas for decades. Yao De He serves herbal drinks made from over a dozen natural ingredients, perfect for hot days or restoring balance to the body. It’s a nostalgic stop that embodies Taiwanese health traditions in drinkable form.
Minle Swordfish Rice Noodles (民樂旗魚米粉)
Minle is famed for its hearty bowls of swordfish rice noodles, a traditional dish from Tainan made with clear broth, thin vermicelli, and crispy fried swordfish chunks. The flavors are simple but deeply comforting, reflecting the soul of southern Taiwanese street food. The restaurant stays busy with regulars who appreciate its consistency and affordable prices.
Summer Tree Sweet Desserts (夏樹甜品)
A stylish dessert spot that blends modern presentation with classic Taiwanese treats, Summer Tree Sweet Desserts is known for its use of fresh, seasonal fruits and traditional bases like tofu pudding and taro balls. It’s a favorite among younger crowds for its Instagram-worthy dishes and dedication to natural ingredients.
Lao-A-Bei (GRANDPAng’ SOUP) (老阿伯胖魷焿)
This humble food stall is a legend among Taipei street eats, serving squid thick soup (you geng) with a unique twist. The broth is rich and gooey, filled with chewy squid pieces and garnished with cilantro and garlic paste. Known for its consistency and friendly service, it’s a must-try for lovers of hearty local fare.
Mai Mien Yen Tsai (賣麵炎仔)
With over a century of history, Mai Mien Yen Tsai is a legendary noodle shop in Taipei’s Datong District. Known for its no-frills, old-school vibe, the eatery specializes in minced pork noodles (lu rou mian) and side dishes like marinated tofu and pig’s ears. It’s beloved by locals and foodies alike for preserving the simple, deeply satisfying flavors of traditional Taiwanese street food.
DaDaoChen Bubble Tea (大盜陳茶飲)
DaDaoChen Bubble Tea fuses modern bubble tea culture with Dadaocheng’s historical setting, offering creative drinks that emphasize local ingredients and artisanal techniques. Beyond the usual boba, expect drinks featuring traditional Chinese herbs, roasted teas, and unique toppings. The shop’s retro-themed design and packaging also make it a hit among tourists and locals seeking a taste of modern nostalgia.
Things to Do in Dihua Street
Dihua Street in Taipei is a bustling cultural and historical hotspot that offers a mix of traditional shops, modern art, local delicacies, and beautiful architecture. If you’re planning a visit to Dihua Street, here are the best things to do in this vibrant neighborhood:
Free Qipao Experience at Dadaocheng Visitor Center
At the Dadaocheng Visitor Center, visitors can enjoy a unique and completely free qipao (cheongsam) dress-up experience that takes you back in time to early 20th-century Taiwan.
Offered in collaboration with the local studio Juyuan Costume Room (菊元治裝所) on the center’s second floor, this service allows you to try on a variety of retro-style outfits, including traditional Chinese qipao, vintage Western dresses, and accessories for men, women, and children.
It’s a fun and stylish way to explore Dihua Street while capturing beautifully nostalgic photos.
Booking Info & What to Know
Reservation window: You can book sessions from 11 to 31 days in advance (e.g., if today is May 1, you can reserve dates from May 12 to June 1).
How to book: Reservations must be made online via the official booking system (here).
Session length: Each dress-up session lasts about 90 minutes. Afternoon time slots are recommended for a more relaxed experience.
Deposit & ID: A NT$1,000 deposit and a valid ID are required. The deposit is fully refunded upon returning the clothing and accessories.
Dress limit: Each person may try on up to two outfits, but only one set (with up to two accessories) may be borrowed at a time.
Facilities: Changing rooms and lockable storage lockers are available on-site for your convenience.
Photo Spots & Tips
Inside the visitor center, five beautifully designed photo areas recreate nostalgic scenes such as:
- An old-fashioned Chinese medicine shop
- A 1930s-style tea house
- A traditional lantern store
- A classroom from the Japanese era
Feel free to bring your own props like vintage shoes, fans, hair accessories, or parasols to enhance your photos and personalize your experience.
Explore Traditional Chinese Herb Shops
Dihua Street is renowned for its long-standing herbal medicine trade. Along the street, you’ll find numerous traditional herb shops that have been operating for generations. These stores are packed with dried roots, medicinal herbs, and age-old remedies neatly stacked in wooden drawers or glass jars
. The knowledgeable shopkeepers are often happy to explain the uses of different herbs, offering an authentic and educational experience in Chinese traditional medicine.
Whether you’re looking for ginseng, goji berries, or herbal tea blends, this is the place to find them. These stores also sell seasonal health supplements used by locals to boost immunity, especially during the winter or before major festivals. Even if you don’t make a purchase, just stepping into one of these fragrant, antique-filled shops is a cultural journey.
Key Points:
Discover centuries-old herbal remedies and traditional health wisdom
Meet local shopkeepers and learn about Taiwanese herbal medicine practices
Admire the Architecture
Dihua Street showcases a unique blend of architectural styles that reflect its layered history. Many buildings here feature red-brick exteriors, Baroque-style arches, and Southern Fujian elements, while others carry the subtle influence of the Japanese colonial era. Each façade tells a story, making a simple walk down the street feel like a journey through time.
Several of the old shophouses have been beautifully restored, maintaining their heritage charm while serving new purposes such as boutiques, galleries, and cafés. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy the craftsmanship of wooden window frames, carved stone reliefs, and traditional tilework, all of which embody Taiwan’s cultural evolution.
Key Points:
A picturesque blend of Qing Dynasty, Baroque, and Japanese colonial architecture
Restored heritage buildings now house trendy cafés, boutiques, and art studios
▼ A.S. Watson & Co” building (屈臣氏大藥房): This landmark was built in 1917 and may be the first Western pharmacy in Taiwan.
Explore the Yongle Market
Nestled at the intersection of Dihua Street, Yongle Market is one of Taipei’s oldest public markets, originally built during the Japanese era. The market is particularly famous for its wide selection of fabrics, ranging from colorful silks to traditional Taiwanese textiles. It’s a paradise for tailors, designers, and textile lovers looking to find beautiful patterns and high-quality material.
The market also features food stalls and local produce vendors, offering an authentic look into everyday Taipei life. You can browse for snacks, watch seamstresses at work, or even commission a custom-made qipao. Yongle Market perfectly complements Dihua Street’s cultural vibe, bridging the past and present through commerce.
Key Points:
Browse a vast selection of fabrics and tailor shops inside the historic market
Discover local flavors and interact with long-time merchants
Read more about Yongle Market
Shop for Local Handcrafted and Souvenirs
Dihua Street is the perfect place to find authentic, handcrafted souvenirs. From handmade soaps and natural teas to artisanal pottery and woodcarvings, the area is full of creative finds. Many of the shops are operated by local artists and designers who are passionate about preserving and reinventing traditional crafts for the modern age.
Whether you’re buying a meaningful gift or something for yourself, you’ll find items that reflect Taiwan’s artistic soul. Don’t miss the studios that host workshops—some even let you try calligraphy, soap-making, or tea-blending. Shopping here feels personal and connected to local culture.
Key Points:
Support local artisans and take home meaningful, handmade souvenirs
Try your hand at DIY workshops hosted in restored heritage shops
Visit Xia-Hai City God Temple
This small but significant temple on Dihua Street is over 160 years old and a beloved spiritual center for many Taipei locals. Xia-Hai City God Temple is dedicated to the City God, believed to watch over people’s safety and justice, but it’s also famously popular for its Matchmaker deity. Young couples and singles visit to pray for love and romantic blessings.
Despite its modest size, the temple is always bustling with worshippers lighting incense and making offerings. Its colorful exterior, with intricate carvings and lanterns, is highly photogenic. Visiting the temple provides not only a spiritual experience but also a window into Taiwan’s blend of Daoist and folk religious traditions.
Key Points:
Pray for love or success at Taipei’s most popular Matchmaker temple
Explore local religious customs and temple rituals in an intimate setting
Read more about Xia-Hai City God Temple
Lunar New Year Shopping Area
Two weeks before the Lunar New Year
As Lunar New Year approaches, Dihua Street becomes the epicenter of festive shopping in Taipei. The annual Dihua Street New Year Market draws massive crowds looking for snacks, dried fruits, candy, decorations, and traditional holiday items. It’s the best time to experience the street at its liveliest, full of vibrant colors, performances, and the scent of incense and spices.
Vendors line the street with samples of everything from candied winter melon to herbal teas and festive dried seafood. It’s an ideal opportunity to taste-test traditional goodies, pick up seasonal décor, or simply enjoy the joyful chaos. Even if you’re not celebrating the New Year, the energy is infectious.
Key Points:
Join the crowds for Taipei’s most famous Lunar New Year market
Sample festive snacks and soak in the buzzing holiday atmosphere
Opening Hours
The Best Time to Visit
There are not many tourists in Dihua Street at night. Most shops close at 6pm. You can take a walk to Dihua Street at 4pm and then walk to Dadaocheng Pier Plaza at 5:30pm to watch the sunset and eat delicious food.
Lunar New Year Festival (Late Jan – Early Feb): Dihua Street becomes the epicenter of Taipei’s festive spirit. The entire area transforms into a buzzing New Year Market with red lanterns, lion dances, food stalls, and traditional crafts.
Weekdays or Early Mornings: For a more relaxed visit, come on a weekday morning to explore the shops and alleys without the crowds.
Spring and Autumn: These seasons offer the most comfortable weather for strolling and enjoying the outdoor atmosphere.
Dihua Street is where old Taipei still breathes—quietly but powerfully. It’s a place of layers: history, commerce, craftsmanship, faith, and revival.
How to Get to Dihua Street
Getting to Dihua Street is easy thanks to Taipei’s efficient public transportation system. Whether you prefer the MRT, bus, or even a leisurely walk from nearby attractions, here are the best ways to reach this charming historic area:
By MRT (Metro)
1. Beimen Station (Green Line / Songshan-Xindian Line, G13)
Take Exit 3 and walk about 10 minutes along Tacheng Street. This route brings you to the southern end of Dihua Street—perfect if you want to explore from the beginning of the market area.
2. Shuanglian Station (Red Line, R12)
Exit the station via Exit 2 and walk west for around 12–15 minutes along Minsheng West Road. You’ll arrive near the middle section of Dihua Street, close to many shops and cafés.
3. Daqiaotou Station (Orange Line / Zhonghe–Xinlu Line, O13)
Exit 1 is your gateway to the northern end of Dihua Street. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk via Minquan West Road.
By Bus
Multiple buses stop within walking distance of Dihua Street. Look for routes such as 9, 206, 255, 274, 518, 539, 641, 669, and 704. Get off at stops near Nanjing West Road or Yanping North Road, and you’ll be just a few minutes from the street.