Daxi District, Taoyuan City-Hakka Tour

Weather

18 ~ 22 °C

Probability of Precipitation

20 %

AQI

42
Good

Daxi District is renowned for its superior water quality, which produces the dried tofu known throughout Taiwan. It also boasts a rich Hakka cultural heritage. The Hakka community in Daxi traces its origins back to the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty when settlers from the Zhangzhou region of Fujian Province crossed the sea to Taiwan and settled in Daxi. Many of them were involved in logging, tea cultivation, and camphor production, significantly impacting the area's development. Daxi's Hakka culture and historical legacy can be seen everywhere. Notable temples include Lianzuo Mountain Guanyin Temple, Furen Temple, Renhe Temple in Puding Village, Yongchang Temple in Nanxing Village, and Fude Temple. Historical residences like the Li Teng-Fang Mansion and the Gao Family Historical Residence, as well as old pathways such as the Baojia Historic Trail (originally known as the Tiaodan Old Trail), showcase the rich Hakka culture and history that permeate Daxi.

Fun activities

Founded by a group of young people, the Daydaytian Studio is dedicated to revitalizing the local area through creation. They have breathed new life into the old Gao Family Historical Residence, organizing art and cultural activities. Additionally, they offer the "Herb School," where they teach the cultivation of medicinal plants, aiming to preserve and pass on the cultural values of the Hakka village.
A national historic site, the Li Teng-Fang Mansion was built in 1860. It adheres to the traditional standards for a scholar's home in terms of orientation, color, and architectural layout. With its crescent-shaped pond in front, intricate wood carvings in the hall, and the overall meticulous and elegant design, it stands as one of Taiwan's most representative traditional residences.
The Lianzuo Mountain Guanyin Temple serves as a spiritual center for the Hakka people in the Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Miaoli areas. This century-old temple, designated as a National Third-Class Historic Site, is a testament to the unity and strength of the Hakka community.
When visiting Daxi, you must not miss Daxi Old Street. The entire street retains Baroque architectural craftsmanship, with its sides lined with shops selling nostalgic snacks, traditional toys, and souvenirs. The bustling atmosphere and rich offerings make a walk down the old street a rewarding experience.

Hakka dialects Shaoan dialect

Hakka delicacies

Madam Borough Chief’s Savory Rice Pudding

Freshly steamed savory rice cakes (Shui Ban) look tender and bouncy. Topped with stir-fried dried tofu, dried shrimp, and raisins, and finished with a drizzle of soy paste, this is a quintessential Hakka delicacy. Madam Borough Chief’s Savory Rice Pudding on Daxi Old Street, with a history of 60 years, is a must-try. These traditional Hakka steamed savory rice cakes are delicious whether sweet or savory!

Daxi Dried Tofu

The superior water quality and geographical environment of Daxi make black dried tofu the district's most iconic delicacy. Compared to white dried tofu, black dried tofu has a richer texture and flavor. Besides dried tofu, you'll find a variety of bean products. Don’t forget to bring some home as a souvenir when you visit Daxi.

Hakka Oil Chicken

Made with boneless chicken thighs, this dish involves boiling the meat and then cooling it down before soaking it in a specially prepared cold sauce. It's then refrigerated to let the flavors meld, resulting in a juicy and flavorful taste.

Hakka Salted Pork

In the past, when resources were scarce, leftover pork from ancestral offerings or festivals was preserved with lots of salt and stored in jars. When ready to cook, it’s sliced and stir-fried with garlic shoots over high heat, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish that pairs perfectly with rice.