Dali District sprawls at the junction of numerous rivers as they flow from the Central Mountain Range on the outskirts of Taichung. The name Dali originated from the word “Tai-li-khit”, which referred to a bamboo raft once used by the indigenous Hoanya people.
Things to do in Dali District
Dali District is a popular residential area for commuters working in Taichung, with a number of schools and the Hsiuping University of Science and Technology found here. Zhongtan Road is the main artery running through the district and is lined with local seafood and barbecue restaurants, as well as international fast food chains and coffee houses.
Dali District is home to the Taichung English and Art Museum, which is specifically geared towards young children. Each themed section provides interactive worlds for kids to learn and play. They can play traditional instruments in Music World, draw pictures in Happy Drawing Room, play with puzzles in Puzzle Area and take creative photo ops in a recreated airport arrivals hall.
Dali makes a good base for exploring the sights of Taichung, such as the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts that lies to the north. There’s an outstanding collection of Taiwanese art and sculpture, as well as hands-on exhibits and play areas to help children connect with the art world.
A short walk away is the ever-popular Painted Animation Lane where cartoon and anime characters adorn the alley walls, as well as the Taichung Literature Museum. It celebrates Taichung’s long-established position as Taiwan’s literary hub and is set within a former police dormitory that was built during Japanese colonial rule.
Getting around Dali District
Dali district is located around 15 minutes’drive south of Taichung’s city centre and is connected by regular bus services. It’s a compact area to explore on foot and taxis are readily available for journeys further afield.