Valentine's Day Itinerary: Explore Dadaocheng by Day & Stay at a Riverside Hotel to Watch Fireworks at Night

▲ Dadaocheng Music Festival Valentine’s Day & Songshan Xikou Wharf. (Photo provided by Taipei City Tourism Bureau)

ReporterYan Xintong/ Comprehensive Report

The annual highlight "Dadaocheng Music Festival" takes place on August 15 at Piers 3 to 5 of Dadaocheng Wharf in Yanping Riverside Park. As August 15 also falls around Qixi Festival (Chinese Valentine's Day), this article compiles nearby attractions in Dadaocheng. Visitors can spend the morning exploring Dadaocheng and opt to stay at a riverside hotel to enjoy the fireworks for a romantic and memorable day.

Where to Watch the Fireworks
Taking your loved one to watch the fireworks together? Choosing the right spot is crucial—avoid locations that are too far or too close where smoke might obstruct the view. Recommended viewing spots include: Blue Highway, Pier 5 of Dadaocheng Wharf, Section 3 of Civic Boulevard near Tamsui River Pier 3, the embankment near Sanchong along Zhongxiao Bridge, Luoyang Parking Lot, Xining Public Housing, and Taipei Bridge. Each spot has its own advantages for enjoying the fireworks—here’s a quick guide:"Dadaocheng Fireworks" – 6 Best Viewing Spots, with Pier Areas as Prime Locations.

 
▲ Themed Party Cruise on Blue Highway. (Photo from Blue Highway Micro Travel’s Facebook fan page)

Attractions Around Dadaocheng
Dadaocheng blends the history of an old city with modern developments, mainly divided into two areas: Dihua Street and night market food. Spend the day strolling through the historic streets, visit the lover’s interactive market, small stalls, and enjoy live music in the afternoon at Piers 3, 4, and 5. In the evening, head to the riverside to watch the fireworks with the crowds, or book a nearby riverside room to enjoy the romantic display just as well.

1. Historic City & Old Streets
The famous Dihua Street itself is a bustling commercial area, with Yongle Market nearby where you can admire floral fabrics. Nearby, you’ll find the renowned Xia Hai City God Temple and Xiaoyiting. Head south to reach Dadaocheng Wharf, and along Liangzhou Street near Taipei Bridge, there are many traditional pastry shops. The Minsheng West Road area also offers plenty of dried goods and local specialties to explore.

▲ Xia Hai City God Temple. (Photo provided by Taipei City Tourism Bureau)

2. Night Market Food Tour – Starting from Shuanglian Station
Yansan Night Market is located near Daqiaotou Station, while Shuanglian Station also boasts many affordable and delicious street eats. Additionally, there’s the famously delicious Ningxia Night Market, both great for satisfying all kinds of cravings.

▲ Old Uncle’s Squid Noodle Soup on Section 2 of Yanping North Road—the garlic rice is mouthwatering. (Photo by Old K)

3. Taipei Main Station Back Street Commercial Area
Near Huayin Street lies the former commercial hub of the old Taipei Main Station. This area was a wholesale marketplace, perfect for bargain hunters looking for good deals. Nearby, there’s also the well-known Bitter Tea House—don’t miss out on a refreshing cup to cool down.

Accommodation Options Nearby
Choices range between guesthouses and hotels, allowing you to pick based on your budget—young traveler hostels, regular guesthouses, or full-service hotels. The Grand View Hotel on Huannan South Road boasts a prime location, facing Zhongxiao Bridge and Taipei Bridge.Yang Huiyu, Business Department Managermentions that the Grand View Hotel offers deluxe riverside double rooms with large floor-to-ceiling windows providing a clear view of the fireworks. The hotel is also close to the pier area,right in front of Piers 3, 4, and 5, with the bridge serving as the fireworks launch site. Guests can choose to watch the show from their rooms or step out to the piers for an open-air experience before returning to the hotel to relax.

▲ Grand View Hotel – Deluxe Room (Photo provided by Grand View Hotel)

There are also nearby hotels close to the food and shopping districts, with convenient transportation options. Travelers can choose accommodations based on their budget. Hotels for reference:Explore Dadaocheng and enjoy endless food – 4 youth hostels near Ningxia Night Market.