The only one in Taiwan: The most dancing café in Taipei

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 

Taipei is a city of just the right size — not too small, and thanks to its convenient transportation, getting around is not a hassle at all. In Taipei’s alleys, you can always stumble upon charming little shops or stylish cafés, keeping everyday urban life fresh and exciting.

● Taipei’s Most Dancing Café

Situated along Zhongshan North Road, next to Shuanglian MRT Station in Taipei, this spot is home to Taiwan’s first historical site with a dance theme — the Tsai Jui-yueh Dance Research Institute. Tsai Jui-yueh is known as the mother of modern dance in Taiwan, and within the institute, you can witness the life of this iconic dancer and immerse yourself in a rich artistic atmosphere. Right next to this historical gem lies the “Dancing Café,” embraced by expansive green lawns. On a busy afternoon, it offers a peaceful retreat with comfortable natural and ambient lighting. Sip on a cup of coffee in this quiet corner café tucked away in the alleys, and experience a different side of Taipei.

● Taipei’s Most Mysterious Café

The most mysterious café in Taipei — sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? Detective Bookstore is Taiwan’s first independent bookstore dedicated to crime, mystery, and spy novels. Its collection features stories from around the world, both classic and new, ensuring fans of any detective can find their favorite here. Aside from books, the store also sells antiques, handmade design pieces, and imported detective-themed merchandise. Located in an alley near Zhongshan MRT Station, Detective Bookstore invites guests to enjoy a coffee while diving into the world of detective fiction.

● Taipei’s Most Taiwanese-Flavored Café

Known as the café with the most authentic Taiwanese flavor, “Chiu Hui Wen Kuan” is located near Dongmen MRT Station. Step inside and it’s like opening the door to a river of history — showcasing aspects of Taiwan’s past that many locals may never have known, including Japanese colonial-era propaganda, air raid sirens, and government notices from the martial law period. Here, you’ll find it all. Enjoy a cup of coffee while surrounded by nostalgic scenes of the island, and explore these historical artifacts. The café also provides “collection” materials to help visitors understand more about Taiwan’s history. The richness of its archives is so impressive that even the National Museum of Taiwan History has borrowed items from here.