The Dragon Temple Neighborhood Business District, guided by the Taoyuan City Government's Bureau of Economic Development, lies at the heart of Longtan. Centered around the historic Dragon Temple with over a century of heritage, the district encompasses key streets like Daychang Road, Zhongzheng Road, and Longtan Road. From popular chain stores and specialty gourmet cuisine to historical attractions blending cultural insights—a vibrant mix of old meets new, setting the stage for a feast of dining, entertainment, and exploration!
The Dragon Temple has long served as a spiritual hub since the Qing Dynasty period, primarily venerating God Shen Nong (also known as the God of Five Grains), the deity of agriculture. The annual "Culture Festival of the God of Five Grains" in April showcases grand celebrations for the deity's birthday, featuring parades with oversized pig races and performances of traditional music. The bustling Lantern Festival, with its "Ancient Antique Welcome" street carnival and the deities Luoshen and Caishen's processions, rivals lunar new year celebrations in fervor.
A visit to the temple vicinity is incomplete without savoring local delicacies. "Mandarin Taro Balls," known for their soft and sweet texture, are cherished by insiders only, best enjoyed steaming hot! The "Golden King Crispy Fried Chicken" boasts a golden, crispy exterior and is a must-try for returnees to Longtan. The over 80-year-old "Matsuya Ice Cream Shop" preserves traditional handcrafted techniques for pure ingredient flavors. Their refreshing, cooling treats are perfect for summer. The "Dad's Smelly Tofu," renowned for homemade dipping sauces enhancing flavor, is a top nighttime snack choice. Beyond these tasty treats, the temple neighborhood shines through its celebrated wellness cuisine. Following the fragrance of traditional herbs to historic herb shops along the way, you'll find generations-old remedies that cool and soothe effortlessly. Many local restaurants along the district offer dishes made from regional ingredients: "Three Kids and One Dad"客家糯米粑 (Ming Fang Baozi) features high-quality Longquan Rice with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Enjoy artisan wooden crafts while dining at "In Wood We Trust," where seasonal menu items reflect wellness-centric concepts. For dessert lovers, "Halal Cheese Cake Atelier" uses additive-free techniques, offering fragrant Dong Fang Mei Ren Tea Cakes and "Yuzu Happy" cheese cakes that deliver pure flavors in every bite.
Food satisfaction is just the beginning! The Chung Chao Zheng Literary Life Zone’s former Japanese-style home, once Chung's residence, invites readers to journey through the classic novel "Lupin Blossom." Relaxing walks around Longtan Reservoir and water-based fun at the Dragon Water Slide offer refreshing family outings. The well-preserved Holy Site Pavilion, with its tall stone brush and symmetrical courtyard, evokes reverent respect for cherished writings and historical reflection.