Highly photogenic day and night, Daxi Bridge and Old Street top the list of five must-visit attractions drawing crowds

By MOOK Travel Editor Team     Photo Source / Taoyuan City Government

Daxi was one of the earliest developed areas in Taoyuan. Small sailboats on the Dahan River facilitated trade along the Tamsui River with mainland China, leading to the prosperity of many businesses and merchants. During the Taisho era under Japanese rule, Baroque architecture became popular, and the Daxi Old Street commercial area blends Baroque ornamentalism with traditional Minnan decorative patterns, forming a unique Daxi style. Walking down the old street feels like stepping into a time tunnel, where well-preserved historic buildings and a bustling array of unique shops create a lively atmosphere. Below are five recommended spots in Daxi Old Street that offer an authentic taste of Taiwan’s historical charm.

Daxi Bridge
 
Daxi Bridge, which spans the Dahan River, connects to the left-bank bicycle path and is open to pedestrians and cyclists. Its design is inspired by the old suspension bridge of Daxi from the Japanese colonial period. The entrance features a retro arched gate, complemented by a semi-circular carved canopy that gives it a castle-like grandeur. In addition to adopting a Baroque architectural style similar to that of Daxi Old Street, the bridge is enhanced at night by cable lighting that beautifies the riverside skyline. The gray-white carvings harmonize with the surrounding streetscape, adding to its classic elegance.

Daxi Zhongzheng Park
 
Originally named Jinqin Park, Daxi Zhongzheng Park is the first park in Daxi. It features four major plazas: the Sailboat Plaza with a view of the Dahan River, the Top Plaza symbolizing Daxi’s important cultural product, the Bronze Statue Plaza featuring Chiang Kai-shek on horseback, and the only remaining sumo wrestling ground for elementary school students from the Japanese colonial period in Taiwan. It also includes the first Shinto shrine established in all of Taoyuan – the Daxi Shrine.