What’s the best part of traveling? For me, it’s shopping! As I always say – a vacation is incomplete without shopping. The bustling city of Taipei in Taiwan is probably one of the world’s most sought-after destinations not just because of its enticing attractions but amazing shopping centers and vibrant markets. Shopping in Taipei is indeed the most special experience for one to relish. Whether you are a food connoisseur or hardcore shopaholic, Taipei markets have everything to satiate your urge to eat or to shop. These outdoor markets are great places to feel the energy of the city. Taipei not only gives you an opportunity to shop during the daytime but after dusk as well. Here I have compiled a list of the top Taipei markets that you should look to visit while on a trip to Taiwan. So, just sit back and relax as you are going to begin a short virtual trip to not just Taipei’s but some of the best Taiwan’s shopping, food, and entertainment hubs.
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Let’s get into the Top Taipei Markets!
1) Shilin Night Market
Arguably, Shilin Night Market in Taipei is one of the most-loved markets in Taiwan. It also plays a big part in the city’s nightlife. There are oodles of shops and stalls selling delectable local cuisine and merchandise. From giant fried chicken steak and bubble tea to stinky tofu, the food at Shilin Night Market will simply wow you. The operating hours of Shilin Night Market start from the afternoon. However, there is not much to explore before 5:00 PM. The best tip is to go to Shilin Night Market is between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
2) Jianguo Holiday Flower and Jade Market
If you are looking for a place in Taipei to shop for souvenirs to take back home, then Jianguo Holiday Flower and Jade Market is the best place for that. The market is dotted with countless jade shops selling unique and elegant jade souvenirs. From teapots to jewelry and charms, vendors at this market sells some amazing stuff. As the name suggests, the market also sells fresh fruits and flowers. Jianguo Holiday Flower and Jade Market operate on weekends and holidays.
3) Raohe Street Night Market
In the Songshan district, Raohe Street Night Market is another popular night market in Taipei. Though the market is a bit small (sprawling over an area of 600 meters), yet it offers the best opportunity for people to shop. Not just for shopping, the market is also popular for various cultural sites. While on a shopping tour to Raohe Street Night Market, you get ample opportunities to taste delectable fares like sticky rice, bubble tea, clam noodles, and stinky tofu.
**Don’t miss the top travel tips for Taipei in 2020!**
4) Tonghua Night Market
The nightlife is almost the same in all the markets of Taipei. But still, you can’t afford to miss any market. Talking about must-visit Taipei night markets, Tonghua has to be on the list for your trip. The market gives a great chance for travelers to catch some cheap souvenirs and food. Often touted as Linjiang Street Night Market, the market is dotted with hundreds of shops selling a wide variety of goods. Besides, you can also expect to eat local food, such as ice cream wraps, rice noodle soup, and sponge cake.
5) Huaxi Street Night Market
Also referred to as Snake Alley, Huaxi Street Night Market is known for its selling unusual eats. Snake blood is one of the most unique dishes to eat in Huaxi Street Night Market. Snake meat, deer penis wine, and turtle blood are most commons fare people love eating at this market. Besides food, the market is also a popular shopping hub. The entrance of the market is marked by a large red archway and it remains open during day and night.
6) Guangzhou Street Night Market
Want to relish the more traditional market experience? If so, then visit Guangzhou Street Night Market. With food, entertainment, and games, the market is one of the great spots to enjoy Taipei nightlife. However, it is advisable to not to expect a great shopping tour here as the market doesn’t have much clothing or souvenir shops.
From markets, let’s now have a look at some top shopping district that is known to offer the best and most unique shopping experience to tourists.
7) Ximending
Packed with hair salons, shopping theatres, lay-back restaurants & bars, and tattoo shops, Ximending is undoubtedly one of the busiest places in Taiwan. Though it’s a shopping district it is considered as a proper market. Be it youngsters or adults or elderly people, the Ximending night market has something to offer to everyone. The very famous Red House Theatre is also located in the Ximending region.
8) Shida Night Market
Known for its laid-back student vibe, Shida Market is yet another popular hotspot amongst Taiwan backpackers for cheap clothes. Unlike other popular night markets in Taipei, Shida Night Market witnesses a relatively lesser crowd of people making a stroll through the market much more relaxing and hassle-free. Shopping in Shida Market is a great way to support local businesses as the tiny shops at this market are owned and managed by young and local entrepreneurs.
9) Gongguan Night Market
A perfect hideout for all the avid food lovers, Gongguan Night Market is probably the most underrated market of Taipei. Situated near National Taiwan University, this market is a great place to hang out during the night. Since it receives a large footfall of students and youth, hence, the prices here at Gongguan Night Market are pretty cheap. Scallion egg pancake, bubble tea, and cuttlefish vermicelli with a thick soup base are some not-to-miss dishes here. In addition, you can also try pig’s blood cake (if you dare to). On the whole, Gongguan is a great pick for people looking to explore the nightlife of Taipei.
BONUS: IF you are looking for tips on how to get the local experience check out the Jingmei night market. This is as local as it gets and one of our favorites.
So, these are some of the best night markets that you should on your trip to Taiwan. I hope you have liked the list. Also, check out our top tips and travel essentials that we carry with us on our every vacation. These essentials help us to plan an ultimate holiday without any tussle.
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