Taipei/Old Taipei

If you want to feel the real heartbeat of Taipei, one that is far removed from the skyscrapers and shopping malls of East Taipei, then Datong (大同區) and Wanhua (萬華區) in West Taipei are the places to go.

Understand
Old Taipei is next to the Danshui River and is one of the oldest inhabited areas in Taipei. It was the commercial hub of the city, but since the 1990s the economic center has shifted southeast to Zhongzheng, Daan and Xinyi districts. While much of the original architecture has been lost, the area still maintains a traditional feel. In particular, places like Longshan Temple hold a special place in the hearts of the Taiwanese, and many still visit the area to consult with fortune tellers about who they should marry or what to name their children. Dihua Street has undergone massive renovation and now blends traditional architecture and shops selling Chinese medical herbs and dry goods with cool handicraft shops, modern cafes and distinctive tea houses. Further south, Ximending has been totally transformed, and is now a major youth hub for shopping and eating.

By metro
The area can be accessed on the green MRT line via (北門); the green and red lines via  (中山); and the green and blue lines via  (西門).

Dadaocheng
In the South of Datong District, Dadaocheng (大稻埕) is a historic heart of Taipei. Dadaocheng can be literally translated as large open space for drying rice in the sun. This is one of the oldest communities in Taipei. To get to this old area, you can take the Danshui Line (Red Line) MRT to Shuanglian Station. From Exit 2, walk west down Minsheng West Road (about 15 minutes).



Dalongdong
Dalongdong (大龍峒) is at the Datong District's north end, north of Dadaocheng and also one of the oldest communities in Taipei. Bao'an Temple and Confucius Temple are both famous historical sites located in this area.



Do
Stroll around - The area, particularly Dihua Street (day) and Ximending (night), are great to walk around and absorb the atmosphere of the city streets.

Drink
There are a number of coffee shops and tea houses in Dihua Street.