Free Qipao Rental and Experience
Free Qipao Experience at Dadaocheng Visitor Center in Taipei, ideal for travel blogs or guides:
👘 Step Back in Time: Free Qipao Experience at Dadaocheng Visitor Center
Tucked away in the historic district of Dadaocheng in Taipei, the Dadaocheng Visitor Center offers more than just maps and sightseeing advice—it gives visitors the chance to step into a different era through a completely free qipao (cheongsam) experience. Whether you’re a history lover, photography enthusiast, or just looking for something memorable and fun to do in Taipei, this unique cultural activity will transport you back to the elegance and charm of early 20th-century Taiwan.
A Glimpse into the Past
The qipao experience, operated in partnership with Juyuan Costume Room (菊元治裝所), takes place on the second floor of the visitor center. Here, you’ll find a thoughtfully curated collection of retro-style outfits, including traditional Chinese qipaos, vintage Western-style dresses, and tailored garments for men, women, and even children. With a variety of colors, fabrics, and styles to choose from, each visitor gets the chance to dress up and embody the timeless beauty of Taiwan’s past.
But this isn’t just about putting on pretty clothes—it’s a full immersion in old Taipei. Once dressed, you’re free to explore and take photos in five themed indoor sets designed to look like a vintage Chinese medicine shop, teahouse, classroom, lantern store, and fabric store. These backdrops recreate the aesthetics of the 1920s–40s and make for the perfect setting to capture your qipao look. The attention to detail in both the costumes and sets creates an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a historical film set.
How to Book
This popular experience requires an advance reservation to ensure that everyone has ample time and space to enjoy it fully. Here’s how it works:
Booking window: You can reserve your spot 11 to 31 days in advance. For example, if today is June 1st, you can book for dates between June 12–July 1.
How to reserve: Head to the official online booking system to secure your preferred date and time slot.
Session duration: Each experience lasts around 90 minutes. Afternoon slots are recommended if you want a quieter, more relaxed session.
Note: While the experience is free, you’ll need to leave a NT$1,000 refundable deposit and present a valid ID. The deposit is returned in full after you return the garments and accessories in good condition.
What’s Included
Participants can select up to two outfits to try on, but only one full outfit and two accessories can be taken out for photos. Accessories include hats, bags, shawls, and other props to complete your vintage look. The center also provides private changing rooms and lockable lockers for your belongings, making it easy and convenient to enjoy the experience.
To elevate your photos, you’re welcome to bring your own props such as vintage shoes, parasols, hairpins, folding fans, or retro-style makeup. These personal touches add character to your photos and help create stunning images that reflect the era.
Where to Take Photos
While the indoor sets are fantastic on their own, don’t forget that the entire Dihua Street area is full of atmospheric backdrops. The red-brick shophouses, narrow lanes, and tea shops lining the streets outside make for a perfect continuation of your photo session. Consider walking down to Yongle Market, Xia-Hai City God Temple, or Dadaocheng Wharf—all within walking distance and rich in charm.
If you plan it right, you could even catch the golden hour near sunset for some magical lighting in your outdoor shots.
Who Should Try It?
This experience is great for travelers of all ages, whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple on a romantic day out, or a group of friends wanting to do something fun and photo-worthy. Families with children can also join in, as there are qipao and accessories sized for kids.
Plus, since it’s completely free, it’s one of the best-value cultural experiences you can have in Taipei—especially in a district as scenic and historic as Dadaocheng.
Final Tips
Reserve early, as time slots can fill up quickly.
Wear a basic inner layer (like a camisole or undershirt) for easier changing.
Don’t rush—give yourself time to explore the sets and nearby streets in costume.
Bring a phone or camera with good battery life—you’ll want to take lots of photos!
Wrap-Up
The Free Qipao Experience at Dadaocheng Visitor Center isn’t just a fun dress-up activity—it’s a beautiful, immersive way to connect with Taiwan’s cultural roots. You’ll leave not only with stunning photos but also with a deeper appreciation for Taipei’s historical charm. So, whether you’re crafting content for social media or creating a special memory for yourself, don’t miss this hidden gem during your Dadaocheng adventure.
📍Address: No. 32, Section 1, Dihua Street, Datong District, Taipei
🕒 Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎟️ Reservation link: Click here to book