Xinmin Old Street Introduction
Cats lazily nap on motorcycle seats, the rich aroma of coffee wafts through the streets, and shop owners exchange quiet greetings… The hustle and bustle of Zhongzheng Road seems to fade away, as time leisurely flows through Xinmin Old Street. Nestled within the Dàmiao shopping district, the less than 300-meter long Xinmin Old Street was once known as "the first street in Taoyuan," but its former prosperity has gradually faded with the shift of the urban commercial center. Divided into two sections by Zhongzheng Road, the western part near Wenchang Park retains traditional shops such as rice stores and bridal shops. In the past, when the Xinmin Market existed, this area was bustling with numerous vendors selling daily necessities, ranging from hardware and groceries to fabric. Consequently, during festive seasons, Xinmin Street would be filled with crowds. The old charm of the old street may no longer be present, but indulging in classic dishes like the street corner rice noodle soup, the aromatic "Guokai Rice," and the sweet and savory "Sweet Millet Rice" paired with side dishes serves as a unique way to feel nostalgic. After a period of silence, Xinmin Old Street regained attention due to the emergence of creative cafes in the eastern section where the century-old Yang Family Temple is located. Today, Xinmin Street has become an important hub for local creators promoting Taoyuan culture. "Not just a café!" is the business philosophy of the shops on Xinmin Street; the menu features "Just Xinmin Meal," which includes delicious items from old shops such as peanut noodles, pudding cake, fried dough sticks, and malt sugar. By integrating art spaces into the old homes, the area hosts exhibitions, lectures, concerts, and book clubs, thus continuing the old street's charm. In 2015, dozens of artists launched the first "Return to Taoyuan Art Festival," showcasing 20 installations across the shops on Xinmin Street, blending the old spaces with new creativity in a delightful manner.
