Eight Must-Visit Spots: The Most Local Way to Explore Dadaocheng

Text / Edited and Reported by MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 

Every year, a lively birthday celebration is held for the Xiahai City God of Dadaocheng. This year, the birthday falls on June 29th (the 14th day of the fifth lunar month). When visiting Dadaocheng on that day, in addition to joining the Xiahai City God Cultural Festival to celebrate the City God’s birthday, you can also take the opportunity to stroll along Dihua Old Street, experience the charm of old Taipei, and rediscover Dadaocheng.

●DaoTing / URS329 Rice & Shine

URS329 Rice & Shine is an emerging urban regeneration hub on Dihua Old Street. Originally a rice mill, with the loft space once used as a rice storage warehouse, the venue now offers a variety of rice-related products. After passing through the atrium, you can also sample rice dishes that offer a unique flavor.

● Jiang Ji Hualong and Li Ting Xiang Pastry Shop

Jiang Ji Hualong and Li Ting Xiang Pastry Shop are located right next to URS329. During the Lunar New Year period, there is often a long queue in front of Jiang Ji Hualong, where almond slices, meat paper, and other meat products are among the iconic holiday gifts on Dihua Old Street. Established in the 21st year of the Guangxu Emperor’s reign during the Qing Dynasty, Li Ting Xiang is known for its layered, flaky pastry crusts wrapped around traditional fillings—its flavors as deeply rooted as the timeless charm of Dadaocheng, winning over the discerning palates of generations of old Taipei residents. In recent years, the shop has focused on innovating traditional Chinese pastries by incorporating new elements, earning widespread acclaim.

● Cisheng Temple

Commonly known as the Dadaocheng Mazu Temple, Cisheng Temple is dedicated to the Heavenly Goddess, commonly referred to as Mazu or the Goddess of the Sea, who is the guardian deity of sailors. Originally built in 1866 (the fifth year of the Tongzhi Emperor’s reign) at the intersection of today’s Xining North Road and Minsheng West Road, the temple was demolished in 1910 during the Japanese colonial urban redevelopment. Local people from Tong’an then raised funds to relocate it to its current site on Yanping North Road. Using the original beams, pillars, and stones, the temple was reconstructed and completed in 1914, preserving its original appearance to this day. Before visiting the main hall, don’t miss the street food stalls in the temple square—each offering classic bites such as blanched squid, oyster omelet with egg, anchovy fried rice, four-herb soup, braised pork rice, and pork rib soup, all guaranteed to whet your appetite.