An Insider’s Guide to Taipei: Bustling Markets and Shopping Plazas
In Taipei, the juxtaposition of tradition and modernity extends into its markets and shopping plazas. Bustling wet markets where bartering is encouraged coexisting with cutting-edge shopping malls and pedestrian districts that rival those of Japan or any major global city.
From the historic red-brick storefronts of the narrow and vibrant Dihua Street and the tantalizing traditional snacks of Nanmen Market, to the ultra-modern Taipei 101 Complex and the trendy Ximen Pedestrian District, Taipei’s diverse and lively markets offer a visual feast that will leave your camera’s battery drained and you longing for another leisurely stroll.
Ximending Walking District
The Ximending Pedestrian Area is the largest pedestrian zone in Taiwan. Filled with trendy shops, boutiques, movie theaters, and bookstores, the streets of Ximen are nearly always busy with tourists and playing host to a variety of events or street performances.
Prominently located just opposite the entrance to the Ximending Pedestrian Area is the iconic Red House Theatre. Erected in 1908, the Red House boasts a unique architectural style that combines Western and Japanese influences. Nestled behind this historical theater, which is itself designated as a class 3 historic building, is Taipei’s largest LGBT district, replete with outdoor bars and a vibrant atmosphere.
Several streets to the north, you can find American Street, named for its concentration of stores selling imported Americana and vintage goods. Within the central pedestrian thoroughfare, it’s common to stumble upon cosplay enthusiasts, street performances, and even pop stars participating in promotional events. The area also features numerous movie theaters, multi-story shopping plazas, an Eslite bookstore, and an abundance of restaurants and cafes.
Nanmen Market
In an outright mixture of old and new, Nanmen Market is a historic traditional market that has been recently moved to the bottom floors of a brand-new 12-floor government building.
Nanmen Market has been one of the best-known markets for traditional Taiwanese foods and ingredients. Its history dates back to the Nanmen Market Self-rule Association, which was formed in 1907 during the Japanese colonial era. Since then the market has changed names once and was also moved in 1946. Recently, the market was temporarily moved to a building on Hangzhou Street to allow for the renovation of its structure.
Now, having returned to a modern building on Roosevelt Street, this traditional market is directly linked to the Taipei MRT system via Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Station. Within its confines, you’ll find over 250 of its original stalls, vending an array of goods ranging from prepared foods and snacks to fresh produce, seafood, meats, and rare culinary ingredients.
Insider’s Tip: Nanmen Market typically opens early in the morning and closes in the evening. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid missing out on the freshest bites.
Dihua Street
With historic buildings spanning from the Qing dynasty to the Japanese colonial era, walking down Dihua Street is like experiencing a portal through time while also being told the story of Taiwan’s journey to a modern day democracy.
Dihua Street’s beautiful architecture, which includes Fujian-style red-brick storefronts, wooden doorways dating back to the Qing dynasty, and Japanese-era baroque buildings, has been beautifully preserved and the area continues to be one of Taipei’s top historic attractions.
Businesses here are a mix of restored buildings which now house retro-style boutiques, trendy design stores, and hip cafes, and traditional wholesale storefronts, selling everything from bamboo-crafted farming tools to ingredients for Chinese medicine.
Be sure to check out ArtYard 82. Housed in a renovated Japanese-era house, this unique space features a design boutique on its first floor, and the atmospheric Ing Lok Tshun Tea House on its second floor.
Insider’s Tip: Dihua Street is also a traditional destination for families to visit before the Lunar New Year’s festival season. In the weeks before the Lunar New Year’s holiday, Dihua Street takes on a whole new appearance as its streets become flooded with additional vendors selling New Year’s related snacks such as roasted cashews and festival-related bulk goods like red envelope, fireworks, decorations.
