Xinmin Old Street Introduction
Cats lazily nap on motorcycle seats, the rich aroma of coffee wafts through the streets, and shopkeepers greet each other softly... As the noise of Zhongzheng Road fades away, time seems to slow down on Xinmin Old Street. Just under three hundred meters long, Xinmin Old Street is discreetly hidden in the Damao shopping district. The former glory of being "the first street in Taoyuan" has gradually faded with the shift of the urban commercial center. Splitting off from Zhongzheng Road, the western section near Wenchang Park still retains traditional shops such as rice stores and dowry shops. In the past, when Xinmin Market existed, it gathered numerous stores and vendors selling daily necessities, ranging from hardware, rice, to fabric. Hence, during festivals, Xinmin Street was always bustling with crowds. The old times of the old street are gone, but experiencing the nostalgic flavors in traditional shops, such as the famous rice noodle soup at the street corner, the fragrant "Guokefan" (a dish with scallions), and the sweet and savory "Tianmilifan" (sweet and sticky rice), enjoyed with side dishes, is a unique way to reminisce. After a period of silence, Xinmin Old Street regained attention with the establishment of the century-old Yang Family Temple in the eastern section, and the emergence of creative cafes. Currently, Xinmin Street has become an important hub for local creators to promote Taoyuan culture. "Not just a café!" is the operational philosophy of the businesses on Xinmin Street; the menu features items like peanut butter, pudding cake, youtiao (fried dough sticks), and malt sugar from old shops. By integrating artistic spaces into old houses, they host exhibitions, lectures, concerts, and book clubs, continuing the vibrancy of the old street. In 2015, the first "Back to Taoyuan Art Festival" was initiated by dozens of artistic creators, filling Xinmin Street with 20 installation artworks in various shops, blending the old spaces with new creativity, resulting in a charming ambiance.
