Dihua Street

Introducing Dihua Street

Dihua Street is Taiwan's most famous traditional groceries market and Taipei's most complete and significant old street. The architecture on the street features a mix of Minnan, Western-style, modernist, and Baroque styles. First built in the 1850s, it has been an important distribution center for groceries, tea, Chinese medicinal herbs, and cloth in Taipei since the late 19th century.

Dihua Street is a hub for local goods, boasting a wide variety of dry goods. The wide variety, large quantities, and affordable prices are a key feature of Dihua Street and its main attraction. During the Lunar New Year, the government hosts a New Year shopping street event, where pedestrians bustle with food tasting and shopping for festive treats.

Dihua Street is also Taiwan's largest wholesale market for fabrics, traditional Chinese medicine, and various local goods. It sounds quite traditional, but beyond its red tiles and lanterns, Dihua Street also boasts a Baroque-style New Year's Market, a symbol of the era's fusion of East and West.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Dihua Street

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dihua Street, located in the historic Dadaocheng district, dates back to the 19th century. It was once the commercial hub of Taipei and is famous for its preserved architecture from the Qing Dynasty era. The street was an important center for trade, particularly in tea, herbs, and traditional Chinese medicine.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Dihua Street is located in the Dadaocheng area of Taipei. You can reach it via the Taipei MRT Red Line by getting off at "Dingxi" station or "Beimen" station, followed by a short walk. Alternatively, buses and taxis also serve the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Dihua Street is an open-air market, so it’s accessible at all hours, but the best time to visit is during the day when shops are open, usually between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. The street is particularly vibrant during the Lunar New Year period when the area hosts special events and markets.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Dihua Street. It is a public market street, and visitors can freely explore the area.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is necessary to visit Dihua Street, as it is an open-air market.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore Dihua Street in about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend browsing the shops and enjoying the sights.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The traditional Chinese medicine shops that line the street.
• The temples and old buildings, such as the Xiahai City God Temple.
• The tea houses that offer a taste of Taiwanese tea culture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available through local tour operators. However, there is no audio guide service directly provided on the street. Tours are usually available in Mandarin, and some may be offered in English for international visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The street itself offers great opportunities for photography, especially the old storefronts with their traditional architecture. The temples and tea houses also provide beautiful backdrops for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the western end of Dihua Street and walk through the shops and temples. Stop by the traditional Chinese medicine stores, enjoy some tea at a local tea house, and don’t miss the beautiful temples that highlight the spiritual culture of Taipei.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While Dihua Street doesn’t have light shows, it is beautifully illuminated at night, giving it a different ambiance. Nighttime visits are especially nice during the Lunar New Year when the street is decorated with lanterns and festive lights.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Dihua Street can get crowded, especially during weekends and the Lunar New Year period. For a more relaxed visit, go on a weekday morning or early afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public toilets are available near the main shopping areas.
• There are plenty of local food vendors, offering snacks and traditional Taiwanese dishes.
• Shops selling Taiwanese goods, tea, and souvenirs are abundant along the street.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Dihua Street is a historic street with cobblestone paths, which may be challenging for those with mobility impairments. However, the area is generally accessible for children and elderly visitors with some assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Many of the shops on Dihua Street accept mobile payments and credit cards. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller, local vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are many tea houses and local restaurants in the Dadaocheng area.
• Popular places for a sit-down meal include local Taiwanese eateries serving beef noodle soup and other traditional dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at various eateries, especially those offering Taiwanese vegetarian cuisine. Halal food options may be more limited but can be found in nearby restaurants catering to Muslim dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Westin Taipei is a luxury option close to Dihua Street.
• Hotel Papa Whale offers affordable accommodation in the area.
• There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels located near the street.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Taipei Xiahai City God Temple is a short walk away.
• The National Taiwan Museum and Taipei Botanical Garden are also nearby and can be easily added to a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are many souvenir shops on Dihua Street, offering items like tea, Chinese medicine, traditional crafts, and incense.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• The Taipei MRT Red Line provides easy access to other parts of the city from Dihua Street.
• For a more direct route, taxis and buses are readily available around the area.