Things To Do
in Taoyuan District
Taoyuan District is the urban heart of Taoyuan City, blending modern infrastructure with traditional street life. It serves as a convenient hub for travelers with easy access to the airport, rail links, and urban amenities. The district showcases a mix of government buildings, historic lanes, and lively markets that pulse with local flavor.
Visitors can savor street food, explore parks and cultural sites, and use Taoyuan as a comfy base for northern Taiwan explorations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll along Daxi Old Street, where the charming Baroque-style architecture transports you to a bygone era. Stop by local shops to sample freshly made peanut brittle and other traditional Taiwanese snacks. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as artisans demonstrate wood carving and pottery making.
Visit the Daxi Tea Factory to learn about Taiwan’s famous oolong tea production and enjoy a guided tasting session. Explore nearby temples, such as the Furen Temple, to appreciate intricate temple art and local religious culture. Wander through quaint alleyways lined with shops selling handmade souvenirs and local delicacies.
Dine at a local eatery specializing in Hakka cuisine, savoring dishes like stuffed tofu and salt-baked chicken. Take a peaceful evening walk along the serene Daxi Riverside Park, enjoying views of the flowing river and illuminated bridges. End the night with a cup of warm tea at a cozy teahouse, reflecting on the day’s cultural discoveries.
Start early with a visit to Shimen Reservoir, the largest reservoir in northern Taiwan, surrounded by lush hills. Enjoy a refreshing nature walk along the scenic trails, watching for local bird species like the Taiwan blue magpie. Capture stunning photos of the calm water reflecting the mountains and sky.
Rent a bicycle to cycle around the reservoir’s perimeter, stopping at lookout points to admire panoramic views. Visit the nearby Shimen Dam Visitor Center to learn about the reservoir’s history and its role in regional water management. Relax by the lakeside with a picnic lunch, soaking in the tranquil natural environment.
Head to a nearby countryside restaurant to enjoy fresh river fish and seasonal vegetables sourced locally. As dusk falls, take a quiet stroll along the reservoir’s edge to experience the peaceful transition from day to night. Finish with a warm cup of tea while watching the stars emerge over the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-8 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-100 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient access to Taoyuan Airport and northern Taiwan
- Walkable city center with markets, parks, and eateries
- Crowded markets can be loud and busy
- Nightlife is more modest than Taipei
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問洗手間在哪裡？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡嗎？" - Can I pay by card?
- "我想要這個" - I would like this
- "再見" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Taoyuan District
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic city gate with brickwork and activity at street level, great for architectural and street photography.
Nostalgic lanes with traditional storefronts, lanterns, and colorful signage ideal for candid shots.
Water and mountains provide serene sunset and reflection shots along the lakeshore.
Hilltop vantage point offering panoramic city and river views, especially beautiful at dawn or dusk.
Food in Taoyuan District
Taoyuan District Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting Taiwanese staple of braised pork belly served over fragrant rice, found in most local eateries and night markets.
Must-Try!
A savory mix of eggs, oysters, and a starchy batter, a staple at night markets and seaside stalls.
Fermented tofu fried or steamed with pickled cabbage and chili sauce, a classic night-market snack.
Steamed bun stuffed with braised pork, pickles, cilantro, and peanut powder—popular street food across Taoyuan.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for snacks such as skewers, stinky tofu, bubble tea, and shaved ice.
A bustling center for quick bites, noodle soups, and local specialties near transit hubs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings with 您 (nǐn) or 您好, a handshake or light bow; address elders with formal language.
Stand in line, speak softly on public transport, and avoid loud conduct in crowded spaces.
Offer small gifts with two hands; expect polite refusals before acceptance as part of polite etiquette.
Safety
Tipping in Taoyuan District
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; if service is exceptional or a service charge is not included, a small tip is optional.
Cash in NT$ is widely accepted; major credit cards are common; contactless payments and stored-value cards like EasyCard and iPASS are convenient for transit and many shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers and possible typhoons. Stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, and carry a lightweight rain jacket.
Milder temperatures and lower humidity; comfortable for outdoor activities and city walks.
Mild and cool with occasional chilly mornings; significant crowds at festive events in late year.
Pleasant with blooming greenery and occasional showers; a great time for outdoor excursions.
Taoyuan District at Night
Hiking in Taoyuan District
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hillside with city views just outside the urban core.
Flat, scenic loop around the reservoir—easy and scenic for all levels.
Airports
How to reach Taoyuan District by plane.
Main international gateway located in Dayuan District; connects to global destinations and internal Taiwan routes.
Urban airport in Taipei; convenient for domestic and regional flights with rail connections to Taoyuan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Diverse backgrounds and populations working in tech, manufacturing, and services.
Residents with schools and parks nearby, seeking convenient urban access.
A community of Southeast Asian workers contributing to the local economy and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite sport nationwide; you’ll see public games in parks and school facilities.
Common in schools, community centers, and shopping districts.
Popular for indoor clubs and gym facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taoyuan District.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be prepared with tofu or vegetables; look for 素 and ask for no lard. In markets, choose vegetable dishes, tofu, and plain noodle options.