Dadaocheng District - Dihua Street Shops Introduction
In the past, there were no riverbanks along the Tamsui River, and Guidan Street was adjacent to the river. Goods from the mainland landed and were displayed for sale on Dihua Street, located behind Guidan Street. Many merchants on Dihua Street became immensely wealthy through trade, and they built particularly beautiful houses. These houses featured arcades to adapt to Taiwan's rainy weather, while the exterior walls were often adorned with Western-style decorations, resulting in a unique blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles. The most distinctive feature of these old shop houses is their long and narrow depth, with the front serving as a shop and the back functioning as a factory or warehouse, showcasing the characteristics of early clustered street houses. The most famous street in Dadaocheng is Dihua Street, where shops sell a variety of dry goods, traditional Chinese herbs, woven products, and it also serves as an important street for New Year's goods during the festive season. There are many designated historical sites, such as Xiahai City God Temple, Cisheng Temple, Gu Residence, and Xin Fang Chun Tea House, which retain traces of history and are worth visiting. In addition, the Dadaocheng Wharf container market hosts a variety of delicious food, allowing visitors to enjoy tasty dishes while taking in beautiful views and sunsets, as well as various events and performances. Today, Dadaocheng still retains traditional architecture, with red brick houses and retro streets juxtaposed with new buildings, creating a blend of old and new. On weekends, it's a good idea to visit Dadaocheng, rent traditional clothing, and immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere.
