East District Daan District Taipei
Taipei's East District Daan: A vibrant hub for fashion, food, and culture, offering everything from Michelin-starred dining to unique cafes and bustli...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, vibrant nightlife
East District Daan District Taipei
Best Time
Fewer crowds, vibrant nightlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Taipei's East District Daan: A vibrant hub for fashion, food, and culture, offering everything from Michelin-starred dining to unique cafes and bustling street markets.
"A great place to go to get many of your needs, with a wide variety of items and a nice vibe."
🎯 Explore Yongkang St.
Don't miss the diverse street food on Yongkang St. Try onion pancakes and braised pork rice!
🍜 Michelin Beef Noodles
Halal Chinese Beef Noodle in Daan is a must-try for its amazing beef noodle soup.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Yongkang Street Food
Yongkang Street
Savor authentic Taiwanese street food, from onion pancakes to spicy hotpots and braised pork rice. A true taste of local life.
Din Tai Fung (Xinsheng Branch)
Xinyi Road
Experience world-famous xiao long bao (steamed pork soupy dumplings) at this iconic Michelin-recommended eatery.
Sounds Good Cafe
Xinsheng South Road
Immerse yourself in a retro vinyl-themed cafe, complete with music requests and a chill atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Bustle
Culinary Delights Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore Yongkang St.
Don't miss the diverse street food on Yongkang St. Try onion pancakes and braised pork rice!
🍜 Michelin Beef Noodles
Halal Chinese Beef Noodle in Daan is a must-try for its amazing beef noodle soup.
🎶 Vinyl Cafe Vibes
Sounds Good Cafe offers a unique retro experience with records and song requests.
🥟 Xiao Long Bao Heaven
For authentic xiao long bao, visit Din Tai Fung or Shengyuan Xiao Long Bao.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore Yongkang St.
Don't miss the diverse street food on Yongkang St. Try onion pancakes and braised pork rice!
🍜 Michelin Beef Noodles
Halal Chinese Beef Noodle in Daan is a must-try for its amazing beef noodle soup.
🎶 Vinyl Cafe Vibes
Sounds Good Cafe offers a unique retro experience with records and song requests.
🥟 Xiao Long Bao Heaven
For authentic xiao long bao, visit Din Tai Fung or Shengyuan Xiao Long Bao.
🛍️ Boutique Shopping
Discover unique boutiques and shops along the streets of Daan District.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Daan District is praised for its vibrant shopping, diverse dining, and lively atmosphere, with many visitors enjoying the street food and unique cafes. However, some reviews point to concerns about cleanliness, traffic safety, and a perceived decline in the district's overall quality, contrasting with its premium reputation.
"Nice to go around to. A lot of botiques along the road and several big shopping malls with a wide variety of items."
Gary Edward Buerano
"Nice vibe and stalls with lovely jewellery etc. There was also a live act when I was there"
Claire Tyrrell
"Lived in this area for 1.5 years. While there are things I do like, it's increasingly run down and in a clear state of decline.
Yes, there are a lot of stores, restaurants and bars, but turnover is high and there are many empty storefronts with "for rent" signs. Graffiti is everywhere and the streets are not clean. Many young people smoke and spit on the streets.
Cars park illegally, forcing pedestrians to walk in streets where drivers speed with little regard for their safety. There is almost no enforcement of traffic laws. As far as I can tell, the police basically don't care. During the time I lived here, the intersection below my apartment had numerous serious accidents in which scooter drivers had to be taken away on stretchers.
Overall, while this was a convenient place to live, it's a great example of just about everything that's wrong with Taipei today: greedy property owners/landlords, no enforcement of traffic laws, and a very clear lack of pride among the local community. While this has a reputation as being one of Taipei's premiere districts, and the prices are in line with that, I don't think anyone who has been to a world-class city would ever consider this area to be "premiere" anything.
In terms of living, if you're going to pay a premium in Taipei, Xinyi is the only district where you might be able to justify it."
BC in TP
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The East District Daan is easily accessible via the Taipei MRT. Key stations include Zhongxiao Dunhua, Zhongxiao Fuxing, and Daan. These stations connect you to various lines, making it simple to reach from anywhere in the city.
Yes, the MRT is very convenient. You can also find many taxis and ride-sharing services readily available throughout the district. Walking is also a great option for exploring specific neighborhoods.
For Zhongxiao East Road shopping, exits from Zhongxiao Dunhua and Zhongxiao Fuxing stations are ideal. For Yongkang Street, consider exiting at Dongmen Station.
Absolutely! The EasyCard (悠遊卡) is highly recommended. You can use it for MRT rides, buses, and even some convenience store purchases, making travel seamless.
From Taoyuan Airport, you can take the Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station and then transfer to the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) towards Xiangshan, alighting at Daan Station or Zhongxiao Fuxing Station. Alternatively, airport buses are also available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most attractions in Daan District, like shopping streets and cafes, do not require tickets. However, specific restaurants or events might have their own entry fees or reservation policies.
Shops generally open around 10-11 AM and close by 9-10 PM. Restaurants often have longer hours, with many staying open until late. Cafes typically open earlier.
Public spaces like parks and streets in Daan District are free to enter. Enjoy exploring the vibrant atmosphere without any admission costs.
For highly sought-after restaurants like Din Tai Fung, it's advisable to book in advance, especially for dinner. You can usually do this via their website or by calling.
While there aren't specific 'Daan District' passes, the EasyCard offers convenience for transport. Look out for shopping mall promotions or dining deals that might be available during your visit.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Zhongxiao East Road is famous for its department stores and boutiques. Yongkang Street offers unique shops and street food. Explore the side alleys for hidden gems.
Daan offers a vast culinary scene, from Michelin-starred restaurants serving beef noodle soup and xiao long bao to casual street food stalls and trendy cafes.
While Daan is known for its meat dishes, you can find vegetarian and vegan options, especially in cafes and international restaurants. It's best to check menus or ask staff.
Sounds Good Cafe is a must-visit for its vinyl theme. You'll also find numerous independent cafes and dessert shops offering creative treats and coffee.
Yes, Daan has affordable options like street food stalls on Yongkang Street and local eateries. While there are high-end restaurants, you can eat well on a budget.
📸 📸 Photography Spots
Capture the vibrant street art, unique shop facades, and bustling street life. Yongkang Street offers colorful stalls, while the retro vibes of Sounds Good Cafe are also photogenic.
While Daan is more about street-level charm, some higher floors of department stores or cafes might offer city views. For panoramic views, Taipei 101 in the nearby Xinyi District is the prime spot.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for street photography. Evenings bring a lively neon glow to the shopping streets.
Generally, yes, but be mindful of other patrons and staff. Some establishments might have specific policies, so it's polite to ask if unsure.
Daan District showcases a mix of modern and older architecture. Look for traditional shophouses alongside contemporary buildings for interesting contrasts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed experience, look for cafes with ample seating. While Daan isn't packed with dedicated children's attractions, its central location means you can easily combine a visit here with other family-friendly spots in Taipei. Remember to keep an eye on children in busy areas and be aware of traffic, as some reviews mention safety concerns.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the high-end shopping malls might be out of reach, window shopping is free! You can also find more affordable boutiques and markets if you explore the side streets. Utilize the MRT for transportation, as it's very cost-effective. Consider visiting during weekdays when prices for some services might be slightly lower, and crowds are thinner.
couples
Indulge in a fine dining experience at a Michelin-recommended restaurant like Halal Chinese Beef Noodle or Din Tai Fung for a memorable meal. The district's numerous boutiques and department stores also provide opportunities for couples to shop together. As evening falls, the area comes alive with illuminated streets and bustling restaurants, creating a perfect setting for a romantic night out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Culinary Adventures in Daan
Beyond traditional Taiwanese fare, Daan offers unique dining experiences. Halal Chinese Beef Noodle has earned Michelin recognition for its flavorful beef noodle soup, a testament to the district's high culinary standards. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the creative cafes, such as Sounds Good Cafe, a retro vinyl-themed spot perfect for a relaxed afternoon. The district's food scene is constantly evolving, with new eateries and pop-ups emerging regularly, making it a dynamic destination for food lovers.
When exploring Daan's food landscape, be prepared for potential queues at popular spots, especially during peak hours. Researching specific restaurants beforehand and considering off-peak times can enhance your dining experience. The sheer variety ensures that whether you're a budget traveler or seeking a fine dining experience, Daan District will not disappoint.
Shopping and Lifestyle in Daan
Beyond the large malls, the smaller streets and alleys of Daan hide charming independent boutiques, concept stores, and artisan shops. These hidden gems often feature unique jewelry, handcrafted goods, and one-of-a-kind fashion items, offering a more personalized shopping experience. The district also hosts a variety of cafes and entertainment venues, making it a complete lifestyle destination. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a relaxing coffee break, or a place to unwind after shopping, Daan has plenty of options.
While the district is known for its upscale offerings, it's also possible to find more affordable options and enjoy the shopping atmosphere without breaking the bank. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, especially in the larger department stores. The dynamic nature of retail in Daan means there's always something new to discover, making it a compelling destination for shoppers of all tastes and budgets.
Understanding the Daan Vibe
However, some long-term residents have noted a decline in cleanliness and an increase in issues like illegal parking and littering, suggesting that the 'premiere' reputation might not fully reflect the current reality for everyone. Despite these concerns, the district remains a popular choice for its convenience and the sheer volume of amenities available. The presence of universities also contributes to a youthful energy in certain pockets of the district.
For visitors, Daan offers a dynamic urban experience. It's a place where you can indulge in high-end shopping, explore diverse culinary options, and soak in the city's energetic atmosphere. While it's important to be aware of potential downsides, the overall impression is one of a bustling and engaging district that continues to be a focal point of Taipei's urban life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit