Blue Canoe | Your Local Guide to Taiwan
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20 Best Dadaocheng and Dihua Street Food Locals Love

20 Mins Read

Dadaocheng is a historic district in Taipei filled with hidden gems, especially when it comes to food. From traditional Taiwanese snacks to trendy cafes, there’s something for everyone. As lifelong residents of Taipei, we’ve always been drawn to the charm and history of Dadaocheng. Every year, as the Chinese New Year approaches, this is the go to place for buying and preparing for the upcoming celebration. We’re excited to share our favorite food spots in Dadaocheng and Dihua street with you. From traditional Taiwanese snacks to trendy cafes, this neighborhood has something to satisfy every palate. Join us as we take you on a culinary adventure through the streets of Dadaocheng. Dihua Street Nearest MRT Before we dive into the tasty stuff, let’s get the logistics out of the way. How do you get to Dihua Street via Taipei MRT? Dihua Street is located between several Taipei Metro Stations. Beimen Station…

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How to Plan the best Yilan Itinerary: 3 must-try itinerary to Explore Yilan

10 Mins Read

Yilan, a hidden gem on Taiwan’s northeastern coast, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. With its lush mountains, pristine beaches, and hot springs, it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, foodies, and those seeking relaxation. Here are two-day and three-day Yilan itinerary to help you make the most of your Yilan adventure: 2-day Yilan itinerary Discover Yilan’s culture and ocean Day 1 | Lan Yang Museum → Whale watching at Wushi Harbor or Waiao Beach → Jiaoxi Royal Hotel Day 2 | Jiaoxi Old Street → National Center for Traditional Arts → Kavalan Whisky Distillery Day 1: Immersion in Art, Adventure, and Relaxation Morning: Begin at the Lan Yan Museum (蘭陽博物館) Start your Yilan adventure with a visit to the Lan Yan Museum, one of the most architecturally stunning museums in Taiwan. Designed by world-renowned architect Kris Yao, this modern museum effortlessly blends with its natural surroundings.Located…

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8 Best Braised Pork Rice in Taipei + Most Accessible

11 Mins Read

As a lifelong Taipeian, I’ve had the privilege of growing up surrounded by Taiwan’s most delicious street food. And that includes the best braised pork rice in Taipei. Let’s face it, plain white rice can be a bit boring. But elevate it with a rich, savory braised pork sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s simply irresistible. The tender, fatty pork, slow-cooked to perfection, is the perfect complement to the fluffy rice. Source: 天下雜誌 Trust me, I’ve tried ’em all, from the hole-in-the-wall joints to the Michelin-starred restaurants. So, if you’re ready to try out Taiwan’s most iconic dish, braised pork rice, minced pork over rice, Lu Rou Fan or whatever you want to call it; grab your chopsticks and let me guide you to the best braised pork rice in Taipei. As with my other food guides, I try to prioritize the accessibility of the restaurant so you can…

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Complete History and Development of Taiwanese Cuisine

6 Mins Read

Ever wondered why Taiwanese food is so damn good?  I mean, it’s not just about the deliciousness. There’s a whole story behind it, a history as rich and flavorful as the dishes themselves. Growing up in Taiwan, I was lucky enough to be surrounded by a melting pot of flavors. From the humble street food stalls to the Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s always something new to tantalize my taste buds. But what truly sets Taiwanese cuisine apart? I have always struggled to define what really is Taiwanese cuisine? I want to dedicate this post to this question. Source: 鏡週刊 It’s more than just a collection of dishes. It’s a reflection of Taiwan’s unique history and culture. A blend of indigenous, Chinese, and Japanese influences and more, it’s a culinary journey through time. As a Taiwanese native who spent years studying the island’s history and geography, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate relationship…

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12 Best Beef Noodles in Taipei + Most Accessible

11 Mins Read

Hey food lovers! I’m a local Taiwanese and I’ve been slurping up bowls of beef noodle soup since I was a kid. There’s nothing quite like a steaming hot bowl of rich, flavorful broth with tender beef and chewy noodles. Taipei is a city full of amazing food, and beef noodle soup is the most iconic Taiwanese dish you should try. To be honest, every Taiwanese has their own favorite beef noodle joint, and every neighborhood has its own local champion. There are countless variations, from rich, braised beef noodles to lighter, clear broth options. You’ll find noodles in all shapes and sizes, from thin and silky to thick and chewy. All these options can be quite overwhelming. Source: GOMAJI I understand you might not have time to go all the way to my elementary school district just because the beef noodle there is my favorite. So I prioritized the…

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20 Best Sushi in Taipei: Conveyor Belt to Omasake

13 Mins Read

Want to get some sushi in Taipei, you’re at the right place. If you haven’t noticed already, Taiwanese culture is heavily influenced by Japan. It can be traced back to the era when our country is colonized by Japan. But even after decades, Taiwanese are weirdly fond of Japanese culture, and food especially! We have visited Japan for more than 10 times combined by now! 80% of my Taiwanese friends or family have been there at least once. Many more, including our family, visit almost annually. Taiwan also donates a disproportionate amount to Japan whenever they suffer from heavy typhoon or earthquake destruction. We love Japan too much. This is why you can find so many sushi restaurants in Taiwan. The market is huge! Growing up in Taiwan, we had tried countless sushi restaurants all over the country. Surrounded by ocean, we are never unfamiliar to seafood. The great news…

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Navigating Taiwan’s Typhoon Season with Local Advice

14 Mins Read

Traveling to Taiwan? Don’t be deterred by the looming threat of Taiwan’s typhoon season. For adventure seekers and travel enthusiasts, knowing how to prepare can turn potential disruptions into unique experiences. Typhoon season in Taiwan is no ordinary weather pattern—it’s a dramatic event that can significantly impact your travel plans. But with a touch of savvy planning, you can ensure a safe and memorable trip. Source: 數位果子 As local Taiwanese, we have firsthand experience navigating the annual onslaught of typhoons, averaging about 4.7 each year—a number that’s unfortunately on the rise. This unique perspective equips us with a deep understanding of how these storms affect daily life and travel plans. Over the years, we’ve learned how to track a typhoon’s progress, adapt to the power outages, flooded streets, and transportation disruptions that accompany typhoon season. In this post, we will share this knowledge to help you and other visitors enjoy…

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Ultimate Taiwan Packing List: Advice from a Local

14 Mins Read

If you’re gearing up for a trip to Taiwan, you’re in for a treat! But before you rush to the airport, let’s chat about the must-have Taiwan packing list to keep your stay comfy and fun. Trust me, a lot of my friends have been there. Many visitors can be so pumped that they packed everything except the right clothes for its notoriously unpredictable weather. Spoiler alert: drenched in a rainstorm while wearing flip-flops is not the vibe! Source: dcard Growing up in Taiwan and having lived here for over two decades, We’ve learned a thing or two about packing for Taiwan. So, let’s avoid rookie mistakes and ensure your adventure is unforgettable for all the right reasons! This comprehensive packing list for Taiwan covers everything from clothing to gadgets, ensuring that you’re prepared for an unforgettable adventure. Plan B: Where to Shop Before we dig into packing for Taiwan,…

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12 Best Restaurants Near Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial and Nanmen

11 Mins Read

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial hall is not just a tourist attraction. It is deeply ingrained in the locals life. Along with the bustling community, there is an equally rich food scene to support. Growing up in Taiwan and studied at Taipei First Girls’ High School, we were lucky enough to be surrounded by the vibrant food scene of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Nanmen. Our school is within walking distance of this attraction and food scene. From a young age, we were hooked on the mouthwatering smells wafting from the restaurants and food stalls. Food around here is often our comfort after a long school day or a fun gathering between friends.. From slurping up bowls of beef noodle soup to savoring delicate xiao long bao, we’ve developed a deep appreciation for the authentic flavors and hidden gems that make Taiwanese food so special. Let us be your guides to the…

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What to Eat near Longshan Temple, Wanhua: 15 Best Food Stalls

14 Mins Read

Come find out why Wanhua, Taipei, is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Home to the renowned Longshan Temple, this historic district has garnered international attention for its Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded street food. From humble street food stalls to time-honored establishments, Wanhua offers a delightful blend of traditional Taiwanese flavors and international influences. With insights from local experts, we’ll guide you through the best spots to savor authentic Taiwanese flavors near Longshan Temple, the wonderful Wenhua neighborhood. History of Wanhua Source: taipei.travel Wanhua 萬華, once known as “Māngjiá,” 艋舺 has a rich history dating back to the Qing Dynasty. As one of Taiwan’s earliest developed areas, it has served as a bustling commercial hub for centuries. Its strategic location at the confluence of the Tamsui, Xindian, and Dahan rivers facilitated commerce and cultural exchange. This district’s unique blend of historical significance and culinary heritage has made it a popular destination…

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