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Taoyuan day trip from Taipei: Daxi Old Street, Cihu, and Shimen Reservoir

A low-stress ‘close by’ day trip west of Taipei: heritage strolling in Daxi, a unique stop at Cihu, and lakeside breathing room at Shimen Reservoir—perfect when you want space without a long journey.

Jisun Han Unsplash

A low-stress ‘close by’ day trip west of Taipei: heritage strolling in Daxi, a unique stop at Cihu, and lakeside breathing room at Shimen Reservoir—perfect when you want space without a long journey.

Best for
Trips 4+ days, photographers, slow travelers
Time to read
6–8 minutes
Core idea
Old street + one nature stop

Highlights

  • A relaxed day trip with minimal ‘travel fatigue’
  • Great mix of old-street vibes + nature + curiosity stops
  • Works well year-round (especially in mild weather)

Why Taoyuan is underrated

Taoyuan is closer than many people think, which makes it a great ‘space day’ when you don’t want to commit to a long, crowded coastal trip. The rhythm is easy: stroll, snack, look at scenery, repeat.

The best version is not packed. Choose Daxi as your anchor, then add one or two nearby stops based on energy.

A simple, satisfying route

This loop balances culture and nature without turning into a transit marathon.

  • Daxi Old Street for heritage architecture and a slow snack crawl
  • Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park for a unique, reflective stop
  • Shimen Reservoir for open views and a nature reset

How to keep it low-stress

Give yourself buffer. If the day starts to feel rushed, drop one stop. Taoyuan is most enjoyable when you keep it spacious.

  • Pick 2 stops if you want an easier day
  • Aim for afternoon light at the reservoir
  • Finish back in Taipei with an easy dinner

FAQ

Quick answers to common planning questions.

Can I do this trip as a half-day?
Yes. Do Daxi Old Street as your main half-day. If you want one add-on, choose either Cihu or Shimen Reservoir—not both.
Is this better than a northeast-coast day trip?
It depends on what you want. The northeast coast is dramatic and windy; Taoyuan is closer, calmer, and easier to keep low-stress. For a ‘rest day’ that still feels like travel, Taoyuan is a great pick.

Keep exploring

Hand-picked next reads to make your Taipei plan smoother.

Ready to plan your next stop?

Start with a simple loop: one neighborhood stroll, one iconic sight, and one night market. Taipei rewards balance.

Tip: hours, prices, and seasonal schedules can change. When something matters (like a museum ticket or a special exhibition), check the official listing before you go.