A calm city near Taipei with a large international airport. Known for its aerospace industry and the Daxi Old Street, lined with Baroque-style buildings from the 1920s.
Taoyuan, a special municipality in northern Taiwan located 40 km southwest of Taipei, offers a variety of experiences for visitors. Explore the historic Daxi Old Street, hike through the ancient forests of Lala Mountain, or attend a performance at the Taoyuan Arts Center. As Taiwan's main international gateway and a significant industrial hub, Taoyuan integrates urban life with its rich cultural sites and natural environments.
Transportation to Taoyuan
You can reach Taoyuan from Taipei or directly from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. The Taoyuan Airport MRT connects the airport to Taipei Main Station in about 35 minutes. From other parts of Taiwan, take the Taiwan Railway or High Speed Rail to Taoyuan Station.
Wandering Through Daxi Old Street
Daxi Old Street is a well-known historical street that played a key role in the camphor and tea trade. Today, various shops operate in buildings with Baroque-style façades. Visit the Daxi Wood Art Ecomuseum to see structures like Daxi Butokuden and Lee Teng-fan's Ancient Residence.
Exploring Shihmen Reservoir
Shihmen Reservoir was once the largest water conservancy project in Southeast Asia and continues to attract both locals and tourists. Enjoy fresh fish dishes at nearby restaurants or cycle along the three-kilometer path surrounding the back pond. The reservoir serves as a vital water source and a popular spot for cycling and picnicking.
Ancient Trees of Lala Mountain
Lala Mountain is part of Taiwan's natural protection zones and is home to trees aged between 500 and 2,800 years. The "No. 5 Divine Tree," which is older than Confucius, is a notable landmark in this forest. As you hike, you'll encounter trees that have stood for centuries, providing a unique glimpse into the region's natural history.
Taoyuan's Cultural Hub
The Taoyuan Arts Center, located in the Taoyuan Zhongzheng Arts and Cultural Business District, hosts a variety of events and performances throughout the year. Attend shows by local and international artists to experience Taiwan's contemporary arts scene.
Green Spaces in the City
Chaoyang Forest Park and Hutoushan Environmental Park offer green areas for relaxation within Taoyuan. These parks are perfect for walking or having a picnic, and you’ll often see locals engaging in activities like jogging or tai chi.
Night Market Culinary Adventure
At Zhongli Night Market, one of Taoyuan's largest night markets, you can try a wide range of Taiwanese street foods. The market comes alive in the evening with food stalls, games, and vendors selling various goods. It’s a great place to enjoy local nightlife and sample different cuisines.
Taoyuan's Tech Industry
Taoyuan has become one of Taiwan's leading centers for industry and technology. High-tech companies such as Quanta, HTC, and AU Optronics have established factories in the area. While public access to these facilities may be limited, their presence has greatly influenced the city's development and economy.
