Dihua Street — Attraction in Taipei

Dihua Street, situated in the historic Dadaocheng area, embodies the essence of Taipei’s traditional market culture and stands as a significant landmark in Taiwan’s commercial history. Renowned for its vibrant trade in dry goods, Chinese medicinal materials, textiles, and teas sourced from across the country, the street has long been a bustling hub of activity.

The architectural style of Dihua Street is predominantly Baroque, with many buildings dating back to the late Qing Dynasty and the Japanese colonial era. During the lead-up to the Lunar New Year, the street undergoes a remarkable transformation into a lively “New Year’s Street,” brimming with stalls selling festive essentials such as candies, snacks, souvenirs, and seasonal ingredients.

Even outside the festive season, Dihua Street remains an enticing destination for visitors. Traditional heritage buildings blend seamlessly with modern cultural and creative shops, as well as cozy cafés, making it a trendy hotspot for younger generations. Beyond offering a wide array of traditional goods and delicacies, Dihua Street serves as a cultural crossroads, merging ancient traditions with contemporary influences and fostering exchanges between Chinese and global cultures.

Whether you’re exploring its historical architecture, immersing yourself in the vibrant local market, or capturing Instagram-worthy moments, Dihua Street promises a rich and diverse sensory journey. It’s undeniably a must-visit destination for anyone...

Dihua Street isn't just another street in Taipei; it's a portal to the city's rich past and a vibrant present. Stepping onto this charming old street is like stepping back in time, with European-style architecture standing proudly alongside modern buildings, whispering tales of Formosa's colonial past.

Shops overflowing with dried seafood, local snacks, shelves lined with fragrant local teas, and the sight of daifuku (mochi filled with whole strawberries) will make your eyes water and your stomach rumble.

Don't miss the Yong Le Market, a haven for fresh sashimi lovers and foodies eager to try the famous Li He Fa Oil Rice.

For devotees of the Chinese folk religion, seek spiritual serenity at the Xiahai City Deity Temple, which boasts the highest statue density in all of Taiwan. The temple is well known for it's Wife of the City Deity shrine, as she deals with matters of the heart and is known as a Chinese Cupid of sorts; a goddess to pray to if you are looking for love or marriage!

Dihua Street has something to offer everyone. I highly recommend getting lost in its charming maze and discovering the hidden treasures it holds. Just remember to bring your appetite and an open mind – you might just be surprised by...

My favourite area to explore in Taipei city. It really feels like you have stepped back in time, the people & the pace are gentler. Its easy to spend a couple of hours here - wandering through the local market (a quirky mix of stalls selling, fresh veg & fruit, meats, fish, clothing, household essentials & even a couple of tailors!), visiting the temple to the city God, photographing the well maintained old buildings & just exploring the little old world shops. Many sell ingredients for Chinese Traditional medicine, but many also sell preserved dried fruits (cranberries, apricots, lemons, tomatoes...you name it they are likely to have it) & some lovely teas. I even found a shop that had heavenly smelling lavender! There are 3 shops that sell all kinds of lovely bamboo products ( I bought a couple of chopping boards, a cheese board etc). The prices here are also a throwback to an earlier age! Though a fair number of shop owners don't speak any english they are very friendly & happy to let you taste their various offerings. This is as authentic an experience as...