Taipei is a bustling city that has a touch of old and new in the different neighbourhoods you will see in it. Relics of the past such as centuries-old temples mingle with skyscrapers such as the famous Taipei 101. The city has glitzy shopping malls and entertainment districts.
And within these areas are local night markets that sell all sorts of knick-knacks and the city’s famous street food such as stinky tofu and meat skewers. If you are looking for what to do when you are in Taipei, night market hopping is an activity to consider.
Shilin Night Market
This is probably the most popular night market in the city. It has everything visitors are looking for in a market. There are many shops selling discounted clothes from local brands, outlets of international retailers, food stalls that offer local cuisine and others.
Even if you are not buying anything, Shilin is a great place to explore and immerse in the Taiwanese culture. It is also easy to reach wherever you might be staying in the city.
Raohe Night Market
This destination is famous as the largest wholesaler in Taipei. The low prices attract tourists from all over. After visiting the attractions, you might want to make Raohe your last stop for a shopping spree. The shops will entice you to purchase because of the low bulk prices of most items.
One of the main draws is the street food; sample the delicious stewed ribs or meat buns sold along the street.
Tonghua Night Market
Foodies will love Tonghua; this little enclave in a residential neighbourhood can attract crowds at night. Visitors will find the usual clothes and accessories on sale, but its main draw is the smell of cooking food wafting through the air.
Tickle your taste buds with the oyster omelettes, sausages duck tongues and beef noodles vendors offer. Go on a culinary adventure while planning the rest of your Taipei itinerary.
Guangzhou Street Night Market
This local market may seem ordinary after you have been to the others such as Shilin and Raohe, but that’s exactly what makes Guangzhou Street appealing. Its ordinariness contrasts with the busyness of others. It comes off as an authentic Taiwanese destination with the usual food and clothes sold along the street.
Liaoning Street Night Market
If you want to get away from the crowds in the usual markets, make your way to Liaoning Street. This destination doesn’t have as many clothes for sale. This is an ideal place to sample the local delicacies where stalls have been selling them for more than a decade.
The best-selling food here is the seafood; satisfy your hunger with a plate or two of these dishes.
Huaxi Street Night Market
If you are looking to try something unique, Huaxi Street is the place to do just that. It is also known as Snake Alley because of the distinct delicacies you can sample such as snake meat and even snake wine. Other not-so-common food you can try while here are turtle testicles, squids and even deer penis.
Taipei is a big, bustling city that has plenty of other markets that allow you to try its delicious cuisine and shop. The night markets provide a different perspective on the city’s history and culture.