June 6, 2025
Introduction to Dadaocheng Wharf
Dadaocheng Wharf is a scenic riverside destination in Taipei City, blending historic charm with modern leisure. Once a bustling trade hub during the Qing Dynasty, the area has transformed into a cultural hotspot perfect for relaxing walks, cycling along the river, and enjoying some of the city’s best sunset views.
With its laid-back vibe and heritage-rich surroundings, Dadaocheng Wharf has become a favorite among both locals and tourists seeking a slower, more soulful side of Taipei.
A highlight of the area is Pier 5, a creative waterfront zone made from shipping containers that host food trucks, bars, and weekend live music. This open-air venue is a popular hangout spot, especially in the evenings.
Nearby, you can rent a YouBike and explore the scenic riverside path that stretches along the Tamsui River, offering panoramic views and a refreshing escape from the busy city center.
Dadaocheng Wharf is also a gateway to Taipei’s historic core. Just steps away lies Dihua Street, one of the oldest streets in the city, lined with traditional shops, tea houses, and local eateries.
During major festivals—especially Lunar New Year and the Dadaocheng Fireworks Festival—the area lights up with market stalls, performances, and vibrant crowds. It’s the perfect place to experience Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage.
Easily accessible by MRT, bus, or bike, Dadaocheng Wharf is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Taipei beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re into photography, food, biking, or history, the wharf offers something for every type of traveler. Don’t miss it on your Taipei itinerary.
▼ Dadaocheng Wharf Holiday Market
Dihua Street + Dadaocheng Wharf Itinerary
Start your afternoon exploring Dihua Street around 3 PM, when the bustling market begins to wind down and the afternoon light beautifully highlights the street’s historic architecture. This vibrant area is famous for its traditional shops selling Taiwanese herbs, tea, dried fruits, and unique handicrafts.
Take your time browsing the charming boutiques and savor a cup of artisanal tea or a local snack at one of the cozy cafes. The relaxed pace and cultural richness make it the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Taipei’s heritage without the daytime crowds.
At around 5 PM, make your way to nearby Dadaocheng Wharf to catch one of the city’s most stunning sunsets. The riverside promenade offers expansive views of the Tamsui River and Taipei’s skyline, providing an ideal backdrop as the sun dips below the horizon.
Take a leisurely walk or rent a YouBike to explore the scenic river paths while enjoying the cool evening breeze. The wharf’s lively atmosphere, combined with picturesque natural beauty, makes it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
This combination of Dihua Street in the afternoon and Dadaocheng Wharf at sunset offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. It’s an ideal itinerary for travelers looking to experience Taipei’s rich traditions and scenic charm in a relaxed, memorable way.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the colorful sunset and the timeless streetscape for a truly Instagram-worthy experience.
Things to Do in Dadaocheng Wharf
Dadaocheng Wharf is more than just a pretty spot by the river. Dadaocheng Wharf is a charming and scenic spot in Taipei, offering a mix of history, nature, and local culture.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking for a peaceful escape in the city, there are plenty of things to do at Dadaocheng Wharf.
Here are the must-see attractions and activities to enjoy during your visit:
Pier 5 – Riverside Food & Culture Zone
Pier 5 at Dadaocheng Wharf is a vibrant riverside destination in Taipei, known for its open-air food market, creative spaces, and laid-back atmosphere.
Built from repurposed shipping containers, this unique zone offers a curated mix of street food stalls, craft beer bars, artisan coffee, and pop-up shops—all set against the scenic backdrop of the Tamsui River. Whether you’re grabbing a drink at sunset or sampling local bites with friends, Pier 5 blends urban cool with cultural charm.
As one of Taipei’s best riverside hangouts, Pier 5 comes alive especially in the evenings and on weekends, with live music, outdoor seating, and stunning views of the city skyline.
It’s an ideal stop after a bike ride along the riverside path or a walk through nearby Dihua Street. With its easy access, Instagram-worthy vibe, and relaxing ambiance, Pier 5 is a must-visit for foodies, creatives, and travelers exploring Dadaocheng Wharf.
Sunset by the Tamsui River
Watching the sunset by the Tamsui River at Dadaocheng Wharf is one of the most breathtaking experiences in Taipei. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of warm oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting beautifully on the calm river waters.
With the city skyline, bridges, and distant mountains in the background, this riverside view offers a peaceful contrast to the urban energy of downtown Taipei. It’s a favorite spot for photographers, couples, and anyone looking to unwind with nature.
The riverside promenade at Dadaocheng Wharf is designed for sunset strolls, complete with benches, bike paths, and unobstructed views of the sky. Whether you’re arriving by YouBike, foot, or ferry, the golden hour here feels magical.
Many locals time their visit just before dusk, then head to Pier 5 or nearby Dihua Street for food and drinks after the sun sets. If you’re looking for the best sunset spot in Taipei, Dadaocheng Wharf offers the perfect setting.
Cycling Along the Riverside
Exploring Dadaocheng Wharf by YouBike (or Bicycle Rental Station) is one of the best ways to experience Taipei’s scenic riverside. The well-maintained bike paths along the Tamsui River offer a safe and enjoyable route for riders of all levels.
Renting a YouBike (or Bicycle Rental Station) near the wharf allows visitors to pedal past lush parks, historical sites, and waterfront views, creating a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The route stretches north toward Tamsui and south toward the city center, making it easy to customize your ride. Cycling along the river is especially popular during sunset, when the golden light reflects on the water and cool breezes make for a comfortable ride.
YouBike stations are conveniently located near Dadaocheng Wharf, Pier 5, and nearby attractions like Dihua Street, so you can easily explore the area without worrying about transportation. Whether you’re a casual rider or an avid cyclist, a YouBike ride here offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and urban charm.
Bicycle Rental Station
Enter from Pier 5 of Dadaocheng Wharf, walk through the Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market, and the bicycle rental station is on the left.
Stroll Along the Riverside Promenade
Taking a leisurely stroll along the riverside promenade at Dadaocheng Wharf is one of the most relaxing ways to experience Taipei’s beautiful waterfront. The wide, well-maintained pathway offers stunning views of the Tamsui River, nearby bridges, and the city skyline.
Lined with benches, greenery, and scenic lookout points, the promenade provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Taipei. It’s an ideal spot for walking, jogging, or simply unwinding while enjoying the fresh river breeze and watching boats drift by.
The promenade is easily accessible from nearby attractions like Pier 5 and Dihua Street, making it a perfect stop for visitors exploring the historic Dadaocheng area.
Whether you visit during the day to enjoy the sunshine or in the evening to catch a colorful sunset, the riverside walk offers a serene atmosphere paired with cultural and natural beauty. Don’t forget your camera—this picturesque path is perfect for capturing memorable moments along Taipei’s iconic river.
Relax at the Cafes and Container Market
Dadaocheng Wharf is home to a vibrant collection of cafés where visitors can relax while enjoying beautiful views of the Tamsui River. The Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market is a vibrant dining hotspot where visitors can relax and enjoy a diverse range of food and drinks right by the riverside.
This unique market features colorful shipping containers converted into trendy eateries and bars, offering everything from Taiwanese hotpot and Korean fried chicken to gourmet burgers and craft beers.
The open-air seating areas provide a casual and lively atmosphere with stunning views of the Tamsui River, making it an ideal place to unwind after exploring the historic Dadaocheng neighborhood.
Beyond just dining, the Container Market offers a social and cultural experience with live music events, weekend markets, and seasonal festivals that bring the community together.
Dadaocheng Wharf is one of Taipei’s most relaxing riverside hangouts, offering a perfect blend of casual dining, craft drinks, and scenic views.
As the sun begins to set over the Tamsui River, locals and travelers alike gather along the promenade or at Pier 5’s container bars and restaurants to sip on cold beers, enjoy handcrafted cocktails, and sample a variety of street-style eats.
With everything from Taiwanese snacks and gourmet burgers to Korean fried chicken and fresh seafood, the food options at Dadaocheng Wharf cater to every craving. Many of the container eateries and bars feature outdoor seating, allowing guests to dine while enjoying panoramic sunset views across the river.
Whether you’re with friends, a date, or just exploring solo, it’s an ideal place to unwind with a drink in hand as the sky lights up in hues of gold and pink.
As day turns into night, Dadaocheng Wharf transforms into a lively social scene, especially on weekends when live music and seasonal events bring extra energy to the riverside.
The mix of local flavors, cool drinks, and a stunning natural backdrop makes this spot a favorite for sunset chasers and food lovers alike. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience a more relaxed and stylish side of Taipei nightlife.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite, sipping on a refreshing bubble tea, or enjoying a leisurely evening with friends, the Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market combines great flavors with a picturesque setting, making it a must-visit spot for food lovers and travelers in Taipei.
River Cruise (Weekend Ferry Service)
The weekend ferry service at Dadaocheng Wharf offers a unique and scenic way to explore Taipei from the water. Running between Dadaocheng Wharf and Tamsui Wharf (Saturday only), this short river cruise lets passengers enjoy picturesque views of the Tamsui River, Taipei’s skyline, and historic bridges.
It’s an ideal choice for travelers looking to experience the city from a fresh perspective while avoiding busy roads and traffic. This ferry ride, with tickets typically priced around NT$300, is perfect for families, couples, and solo explorers seeking a relaxing riverside adventure.
The ferry operates mainly on Saturday and holidays, making it a popular weekend activity that combines sightseeing with leisure. Visitors can purchase tickets at the ticket office at the pier 60 minutes before departure.
Ferry Information (here): The information on the website is for reference only. You will know whether there are any boats when you arrive at the pier. You need to call to ask when the boat leaves.
Mandarin 好樂好：(02)2558-5519
Saturday only (sometimes the boat will not sail)
Dadaocheng→Tamsui sails at 10:00 and 13:30
Tamsui→Dadaocheng sails at 11:30 and 15:00
Dadaocheng sunset river cruise (No fixed time)
Dadaocheng night river cruise (No fixed time)
The water level in the channel was too low for boats to navigate.
Cultural Events & Festivals
Dadaocheng Wharf is a lively hotspot for cultural celebrations, especially during the summer when the famous Taipei Summer Festival lights up the area.
From mid-July to early August, visitors can enjoy spectacular fireworks shows with themes like “Vibrant Taipei” and “Taipei Starry Night,” culminating in a romantic grand finale on Chinese Valentine’s Day.
Alongside the fireworks, the festival features live music performances, creative light installations, and scenic river cruises that create a festive and memorable atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
Throughout the year, Dadaocheng Wharf hosts a variety of cultural events, including night markets, art exhibitions, and craft fairs that highlight Taipei’s rich history and creative spirit. The riverside area often glows with decorative lighting, enhancing the charm of themed markets and outdoor activities.
Whether you’re interested in traditional Taiwanese culture or modern arts, Dadaocheng Wharf offers diverse events that bring the community together and showcase the vibrant cultural life of Taipei.
Opening Hours
Price
Cost: Free Entrance
The Best Time to Visit
If you want to experience both cultural charm and a scenic riverside sunset, Dadaocheng Wharf is a must-visit. Known for its historical significance and modern riverside vibes, this spot truly shines in the late afternoon and early evening. Here’s how to make the most of your visit with the ideal timing, activities, and local tips.
A Perfect Late Afternoon Itinerary
Start at Dihua Street Around 3:00 PM
Begin your afternoon adventure at Dihua Street, just a short walk from Dadaocheng Wharf. This historic street dates back to the Qing Dynasty and is famous for its beautifully preserved architecture, traditional shops, tea houses, and artisan boutiques.
Visiting around 3:00 PM is ideal—shops are still open, the afternoon light makes for beautiful photos, and the temperature starts to cool.
Whether you’re sampling Taiwanese snacks, browsing handmade crafts, or sipping tea in a heritage-style café, Dihua Street offers a cultural experience that connects the past with the present. It’s the perfect prelude to the riverside beauty waiting just minutes away.
Head to Dadaocheng Wharf by 5:00 PM for Sunset
By 5:00 PM, make your way to Dadaocheng Wharf to catch one of Taipei’s most picturesque sunsets. The promenade along the Tamsui River offers wide, scenic views where the sky turns golden, pink, and orange as the sun sets behind the cityscape.
Whether you’re walking, sitting by the water, or riding a YouBike, this is the golden hour you don’t want to miss.
The peaceful riverside ambiance is ideal for photos, reflection, or simply soaking in the beauty of Taipei away from the city rush.
Stay for Drinks, Street Food & Night Vibes at the Container Market
After sunset, the area comes alive with lights and music. The Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market opens around 4:00 PM and runs until 10:00 PM, making it the perfect place to wind down your day.
Here, you’ll find street food stalls serving Taiwanese classics, international eats, craft beer, and cocktails—all served from repurposed shipping containers.
Grab a drink, enjoy the river breeze, and settle into one of the open-air seating areas to enjoy live music or chat with locals. On weekends, the vibe gets even livelier, but for a quieter experience, plan your visit on a weekday evening.
Best Seasons to Visit
While Dadaocheng Wharf is beautiful year-round, the most comfortable times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather in Taipei is cooler and ideal for outdoor exploration. Avoid the midday summer heat, and you’ll enjoy a much more pleasant visit.
Visiting Dadaocheng Wharf at sunset is one of the most rewarding and beautiful ways to experience Taipei. Pair it with a cultural walk through Dihua Street, and you have a perfect late-afternoon itinerary packed with history, views, and flavor.
How to Walk from Dihua Street to Dadaocheng Wharf
Walking from Dihua Street to Dadaocheng Wharf is easy, scenic, and takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Here’s how to enjoy the walk:
Step 1: Explore Dihua Street (Start at Yongle Market)
Start your walk near Yongle Market, which is at the heart of Dihua Street. This area is lined with traditional red-brick shophouses, herbal stores, tea shops, and modern cafés. Take your time to explore the stretch between Minsheng West Road and Nanjing West Road.
Step 2: Head West Toward the River
When you’re ready to leave Dihua Street, head west toward the river. The easiest way is to exit Dihua Street around Minsheng West Road, then walk straight down Minsheng West Road until you reach the riverbank.
Tip: Look for signs pointing to “Dadaocheng Wharf” or “大稻埕碼頭” — they’re posted along the roads.
Step 3: Arrive at Dadaocheng Wharf
As you reach the river, you’ll see Dadaocheng Wharf’s promenade, a wide riverside path with open views of the Tamsui River. You can stroll along the promenade, rent a YouBike, or grab a seat at Pier 5 Container Market to enjoy the sunset, food, and drinks.
How to Get to Dadaocheng Wharf
Dadaocheng Wharf is a charming riverside destination in Taipei, perfect for sunsets, cycling, food markets, and cultural strolls. Here’s how you can easily get there using Taipei’s public transportation or other travel options.
Getting to Dadaocheng Wharf by MRT (Metro)
Option 1: Daqiaotou Station (Orange Line – O12)
Take the Orange Line and get off at Daqiaotou Station, then exit from Exit 1.
From there, cross the street and walk toward the river along the Taipei Bridge. Follow signs to the wharf—it’s about a 10-minute walk.
Option 2: Shuanglian Station (Red Line – R12)
Ride the Red Line to Shuanglian Station.
Exit and take Bus Red 33 directly to Dadaocheng Wharf.
Getting There by Bus
You can take several buses directly to or near the wharf:
Direct buses: 9, 206, 274, 641, 669, 704
Nearby stops: 255, 518, 539 (about a 10-minute walk from the Minsheng West Road intersection)
Tip: Use Google Maps or the Taipei Bus app to track live arrivals and get off at Dadaocheng Wharf Station.
Getting There by YouBike (Bicycle)
Taipei’s public bike rental system, YouBike, is an eco-friendly and scenic way to get to the wharf.
Ride along the Tamsui River bike path toward Dadaocheng.
You’ll find YouBike stations near the entrance of the wharf and other riverside parks.
It’s a popular choice for locals, especially at sunset.
By Car or Taxi
If you’re driving or taking a taxi:
Use GPS to navigate to “Dadaocheng Wharf” or enter the address:
No. 399, Minsheng West Road, Datong District, Taipei City
Drive via Chongqing North Road, then turn onto Minsheng West Road toward Water Gate No. 5 (五號水門).
There are parking lots nearby.
Location Info
Name: Dadaocheng Wharf (大稻埕碼頭)
Address: 2F, No. 399, Minsheng West Road, Datong District, Taipei City
GPS Coordinates: 25.0565° N, 121.5075° E
Visit Dadaocheng Wharf in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden hour and sunset views over the river — then head to nearby Dihua Street Night Market for local eats!
Nearby Food & Night Markets
One of the best things about visiting Dadaocheng Wharf is its close proximity to some of Taipei’s most iconic food streets and traditional markets.
Dihua Street
Just a 5-10 minute walk from the wharf, Dihua Street is Taipei’s oldest commercial street. It’s lined with well-preserved heritage buildings, traditional tea shops, herbal medicine stores, fabric vendors, and artisanal boutiques.
In recent years, the area has also welcomed stylish cafes and indie shops, blending the old with the new. Come here to sample:
- Traditional Taiwanese snacks
- Dried fruits and herbal drinks
- Handcrafted souvenirs and teas
Night Market Bites
While Dadaocheng itself doesn’t have a night market, nearby areas such as Ningxia Night Market (around 15 minutes away) are easy to reach. There you can try:
- Sweet taro balls
- Grilled squid
- Taiwanese-style tempura
- Braised pork buns
Tip:Visit Dadaocheng Wharf in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden-hour light, ride a bike or stroll along the river, and end your day with a street food adventure on Dihua Street or nearby markets.
Youtube