Dadaocheng District - Dihua Street Shops Introduction
In the past, there were no river embankments beside the Tamsui River, and Guidde Street extended directly to the river. Goods from the mainland would disembark here, and were displayed and sold along Dihua Street behind Guidde Street. Many merchants on Dihua Street became incredibly wealthy through trade, and the houses they built were exceptionally beautiful. These residences had arcades to cope with Taiwan's rainy weather, while their exterior walls were often adorned in Western architectural styles, resulting in a unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture. The most distinctive feature of these old shop houses is their narrow and deep structure, with the front serving as shops and the back as factories or warehouses, showcasing the characteristics of early clustered street houses. The most famous street in Dadaocheng is Dihua Street, where shops sell a variety of dried goods, Chinese medicinal herbs, and woven products, and it is an important street for New Year goods during festive seasons. There are also many designated historic sites such as Taipei's Xia Hai Cheng Huang Temple, Ci Sheng Temple, Gu Residence, and Xin Fang Chun Tea House, which preserve traces of history and are worth visiting. The container market at Dadaocheng Wharf features a variety of delicacies, allowing visitors to enjoy food while taking in the scenic views and sunset, with various events and performances held regularly. Today, Dadaocheng still retains traditional architecture, with red brick houses and retro streets, creating a picturesque contrast between old and new buildings. On weekends, it is highly recommended to stroll around Dadaocheng, and consider renting traditional clothing to immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere.
