DISCOVERING THE CHARMS OF DIHUA STREET IN TAIPEI

Things to see in Dihua Street in Taipei? Best Restaurants in Dihua? Is Dihua Street in Taipei worth a visit?

We recently had the chance to visit Dihua Street, one of Taipei‘s most enchanting and historically rich neighborhoods.

This street, located in the Dadaocheng area of Taipei, is not just a place; it’s a vibrant journey through Taiwan‘s colorful past and a peek into its dynamic present.

Known for its stunningly preserved Qing dynasty architecture and an array of traditional Taiwanese shops, Dihua Street is a feast for the senses and a must-visit for anyone in Taipei.

As for us, we would consider Dihua Street a must-visit during a trip to Taipei. We loved it and in this post, we share all you need to know about this place.

Guide to Dihua Street in Taipei – A Stroll Down Memory Lane

1. Dihua Street: The Heart of Traditional Taipei

Dihua Street is a testament to Taipei’s commitment to preserving its heritage.

As we walked down the street, we were greeted by rows of old buildings with a mix of Qing dynasty and Japanese colonial architecture from the 19th century.

Each structure tells a story, a snippet from a time long passed but not forgotten. Here, history is not just in the buildings but in the very air we breathe.

Take a slow stroll through the long Dihua Street to observe all these little details and great architecture. It’s definitely a stroll down Memory Lane!

Dihua Street Location

2. Check Out An Array of Traditional Taiwanese Products

What we liked the most in Dihua Street was its shops.

We found a myriad of stores selling traditional Taiwanese goods. From medicinal herbs and dried foods to colorful fabrics and intricate handicrafts, the variety was astounding.

Each store we entered was an adventure in itself, offering us a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich cultural tapestry.

3. A Hub for Lunar New Year Preparations

If you happen to visit Taipei during the Lunar New Year, Dihua Street would be buzzing with excitement.

The street is famous for its Lunar New Year market, a tradition that dates back to the 1850s.

Stalls lined the road, selling everything from festive decorations to traditional snacks. The air was filled with the aroma of sweet candies and savory meats, a reminder of the coming festivities.

4. Enjoy the Street Food at Dihua Street in Taipei

Dihua Street is a paradise for food lovers. As we visited this place during one of our first days in Taipei, we tried a lot of new things.

From strawberry mochi to refreshing herbal teas, each dish was a delight. The flavors were amazing!

There is also a market roughly mid-way through Dihua Street called Yong Le Market. Make sure to check it out, as you’ll see hundreds of food stalls inside it! We are just getting so hungry writing this paragraph!

Another must-try shop is Niko Bakery (expect a long queue though) for amazing toasts with many incredible flavors!

5. A Photographer’s Dream

If like us you love photography, this place is a dream come true. The blend of old and new, traditional and modern, creates a visually stunning landscape.

Every corner offers a new perspective, a new story waiting to be captured.

Too bad we didn’t have a sunny day during our visit…

Practical information about Dihua Street in Taipei

How to get there?

Although we decided to walk from our hotel in Ximending, you can also take public transportation.

By Metro

The nearest MRT stations are Beimen Station (on the Green Line) and Daqiaotou Station (on the Orange Line).
From Beimen Station: Exit the station and walk north along Tacheng Street. It’s about a 10 to 15-minute walk to the southern end of Dihua Street.
From Daqiaotou Station: Exit the station and head west towards Dihua Street. This walk takes about 5 to 10 minutes.

By Bus

Taipei has an extensive bus network, and several routes stop near Dihua Street. Check Google Maps for the most suitable route from your location. Buses are frequent, affordable, and a great way to see the city. We also paid 15 NT per trip…

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services

Taxi or Uber: If you prefer a more direct route, taxis are readily available throughout Taipei. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber.

By Bicycle

YouBike: Taipei’s public bike-sharing system, YouBike, is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. There are several YouBike stations around Dihua Street. You can rent a bike and enjoy a leisurely ride to the street.

How long to visit Dihua?

We recommend to block 2 hours at least to visit Dihua. If you include lunch or dinner, you can easily spend longer.

As for us, we took quite a lot of photos in the areas and checked many shops. So we spent close to half a day in this area.

Things to Remember:

Check the Map: Before starting your journey, it’s a good idea to look at a map to get a sense of where you’re going. We always use Google Maps everywhere we go, and love it!
Local SIM Card or Wi-Fi Access: Having internet access will help you navigate and use transportation apps more effectively. Get Your Sim Card Here.

Where to Stay in Dihua Street?

When visiting Taipei, we actually recommend staying somewhere more central and connected such as Ximending or Xinyi near Taipei 101

We stayed in Ximending, and our top recommendation is CitizenM North Gate Taipei.

Style: Modern
Why Choose CitizenM: Best Value for Money in Ximending
Highlights: CitizenM Taipei North Gate is known for its chic, contemporary design and high-tech amenities tailored for the modern traveler. Located near the Taipei Main Station, it provides easy access to Ximending and other parts of the city. This is our top choice in Ximending!

BOOK YOUR STAY AT CITIZENM

Final Thoughts – Is Dihua Street worth a visit?

Dihua Street is a treasure, a place where every step tells a story.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who loves to explore, this street has something for everyone.

Our visit was not just a walk through a historic neighborhood; it was a journey through the heart and soul of Taipei.

DISCOVERING THE CHARMS OF DIHUA STREET IN TAIPEI

Guide to Dihua Street in Taipei – A Stroll Down Memory Lane

1. Dihua Street: The Heart of Traditional Taipei