Are you ready for an unforgettable shopping experience? Look no further than shopping in Taipei!
This bustling city is a shopper’s paradise, with many shopping areas and markets to explore.
From luxury malls to traditional markets, Taipei has something for everyone. 🛍️
In this guide, we’ll take you through Taipei’s shopping scene, highlighting the best places to shop, what to buy, and practical tips for navigating the city’s retail landscape.
Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a tech-savvy shopper, or just looking for retail therapy, Taipei has it all.
Exploring Taipei’s Shopping Areas
When it comes to shopping in Taipei, there are several areas that you won’t want to miss.
From the bustling streets of Ximending to the upscale boutiques of Zhongxiao Dunhua, each district offers a unique shopping experience.
Here’s a popular list of Taipei’s top shopping areas you should not miss.
Ximending
Ximending is one of Taipei’s most vibrant shopping areas – widely known for its youthful energy, street performers, and fashion-forward boutiques.
Located in the Wanhua district, Ximending is often compared to Tokyo’s Harajuku district or New York’s SoHo.
The district is home to several large department stores, such as Eslite and Don Donki, and many small independent shops selling unique clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
Zhongxiao Dunhua
Zhongxiao Dunhua is another popular shopping district in the Da’an district of Taipei.
The area is known for its trendy, high-end boutiques, selling everything from designer clothing to luxury accessories.
The district is home to several large shopping malls, such as Sogo and Breeze Center, which offer a wide range of local and international brands.
Da’an District
The Da’an district is known for its high-end shopping, with several shopping malls and boutique stores catering to luxury shoppers.
Here, you’ll find the iconic Taipei 101 Mall, which offers a wide range of luxury brands, as well as the Hankyu Department Store and Breeze Center.
If you’re looking for designer labels and upscale fashion, Da’an is the place to be.
Wanhua District
The Wanhua district has several shopping areas, including Ximending and the famous Guangzhou Street Night Market.
The area is known for its bustling atmosphere, street food, and eclectic range of shops.
Visitors can find everything from cheap souvenirs to unique clothing and accessories.
Eastern District
The Eastern District is one of Taipei’s most up-and-coming areas, with several trendy boutiques and shopping malls.
Over here, you’ll find the fashionable East Metro Mall and the Taipei City Hall Station shopping area.
The district also has several unique shops selling handmade crafts and artisanal goods.
Whether you’re a luxury shopper or a bargain hunter, Taipei truly has something for everyone.
Wuxing Shopping District (五星街)
Wuxing Shopping District is a popular shopping area in Xinyi District, Taipei.
It is known for its rich variety of shops and stores, offering a mix of high-end and affordable options.
The area is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient shopping destination for locals and tourists.
Dihua Street (迪化街)
Dihua Street is considered Taipei’s oldest street, with a history dating back to the Dutch rule in Taiwan.
It is located in Dadaocheng, an area known for its rich history and cultural significance.
Dihua Street is famous for its traditional tea houses, temples, and street food, as well as its unique museums and traditional eats.
Zhongxiao East Road (中小東路)
Zhongxiao East Road is a major north-south road in Taipei, running through several districts including Daan, Zhongshan, and Xinyi.
The area is known for its numerous malls and department stores, making it a popular shopping destination in Taipei.
Zhongxiao East Road is easily accessible by public transportation, including the MRT.
Wu Fen Pu (武梵埔)
Wu Fen Pu is a wholesale shopping area in Taipei, known for its affordable clothing and accessories.
The area is popular among tourists looking for bargains and is easily accessible by public transportation.
Taipei’s Night Market Scene
You can’t fully enjoy Taipei’s shopping experiences without visiting the city’s night markets.
The vibrant atmosphere, bustling crowds, and endless variety of street food, clothing, and souvenir stalls make for an unforgettable shopping experience.
10 Must-Visit Night Markets in Taipei
There are numerous night markets in Taipei, each with its unique offerings.
Here are 10 must-visit night markets:
Night Market Name |
Location |
Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ningxia Night Market | 2樓, No. 58號, Ningxia Rd, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103 | Known for its delicious sesame oil chicken soup, a comforting dish loved by both locals and visitors. Offers a variety of Taiwanese street food, such as oyster pancakes and braised pork rice, as well as affordable clothing and accessories. |
| Shuangcheng Street Night Market | Shuangcheng St, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 104 | A bustling market with a wide range of food stalls, offering a variety of Taiwanese street food. Popular for its black pepper buns, which are a must-try delicacy. Also features shops selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. |
| Raohe Street Night Market | Raohe St, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 105 | Known for its extensive selection of food stalls, offering a wide array of Taiwanese street food. The market’s highlight is its famous black pepper bun, a must-try delicacy that attracts many visitors. In addition to food, Raohe Night Market also offers various shops selling clothing, accessories, and unique souvenirs. |
| Linjiang Night Market | Linjiang St, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106 | A vibrant market with a variety of food stalls and shops. Offers a wide selection of Taiwanese street food, such as stinky tofu, oyster omelet, and flame-torched beef cubes. Also a great place to shop for affordable clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. |
| Nanjichang Night Market | Lane 307, Section 2, Zhonghua Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100 | Known for its delicious sesame oil chicken soup, a comforting dish loved by both locals and visitors. Enjoy other classic Taiwanese street food, such as oyster pancakes and braised pork rice, as you explore the lively atmosphere of Nanjichang Night Market. |
| Shida Night Market | Lane 39, Shida Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106 | A smaller night market with a focus on food, offering a variety of Taiwanese street food. Popular for its black pepper buns, which are a must-try delicacy. Also features shops selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. |
| Gongguan Night Market | Ln 90, Section 4, Roosevelt Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100 | A bustling market with a variety of food stalls and shops. Offers a wide selection of Taiwanese street food, such as stinky tofu, oyster omelet, and flame-torched beef cubes. Also a great place to shop for affordable clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. |
| Jingmei Night Market | Jingmei St, Wenshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 116 | A vibrant market with a variety of food stalls and shops. Offers a wide selection of Taiwanese street food, such as stinky tofu, oyster omelet, and flame-torched beef cubes. Also a great place to shop for affordable clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. |
| Shilin Night Market | No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, 111 | One of the most famous and largest night markets in Taipei. Offers a wide range of food stalls, shops, and entertainment options. Indulge in a variety of local delicacies such as stinky tofu, oyster omelet, flame-torched beef cubes, and bubble tea. Also a great place to shop for affordable clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. |
| Huaxi Street Night Market | Huaxi St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, 108 | Also known as Snake Alley, this unique and historic night market in Taipei gained its name due to the numerous snake-related products and delicacies available, including snake soup. Apart from the exotic offerings, the market also features a variety of street food stalls, souvenir shops, and fortune tellers. |
These night markets offer a variety of food stalls, shops, and entertainment options, making them popular destinations for both locals and tourists.
Each market has its own unique offerings and specialties, ensuring that every visit is a memorable experience.
- Go in the evening when the crowds and stalls are at their peak
- Try the street food – it’s a quintessential part of the experience
- Bargain with the vendors – it’s part of the Taiwanese shopping culture
- Wear comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be on your feet for hours
Overall, Taipei’s night market shopping scene is a must-see for any visitor to the city.
Luxury Shopping in Taipei
Taipei is an ideal destination for luxury shopping. From designer boutiques to upscale malls, the city offers a wide range of options for those seeking high-end shopping experiences.
Luxury Malls
If you are game for a luxurious splurge, you will want to know that Taipei has several luxury malls, including the iconic Taipei 101 Mall.
Located in the Xinyi District, Taipei 101 Mall is known for its high-end brands and breathtaking city views.
Other popular luxury malls include Breeze Song Gao and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Xinyi.
These malls offer a range of designer labels, from Chanel to Gucci, making them a top choice for luxury shoppers.
Trendy Boutiques
Taipei, too, is known for its trendy boutiques, featuring emerging local designers and unique, fashion-forward clothing.
One popular boutique is VVG Something, which offers a range of high-quality clothing and accessories with a vintage twist.
Another must-visit boutique is Booday Clothing, known for its playful and whimsical designs.
Luxury Malls in Taipei |
Trendy Taipei Boutiques |
|---|---|
|
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No matter what your luxury shopping preferences may be, Taipei has something to offer.
Traditional Markets and Souvenir Shopping in Taipei
When it comes to shopping in Taipei, it’s not all about the malls and luxury brand stores.
Taipei’s traditional markets offer a unique and authentic shopping experience for visitors, with a wide array of local delicacies, handicrafts, and souvenir options.
Discover the Charm of Taipei’s Traditional Markets
If you’re looking for a taste of local culture, head to Taipei’s traditional markets.
One of the most popular is the dynamic Dihua Street – it has been a bustling hub of commerce since the 19th century.
Over here, you’ll find many Chinese medicine shops, tea vendors, and shops selling traditional Chinese snacks and sweets.
Another must-visit market is the renowned Yongle Fabric Market, which is a paradise for textile lovers.
This market offers a staggering variety of fabrics, from traditional Taiwanese fabrics to modern designs, and is a great place to pick up unique materials for fashion or home decor projects.
Souvenir Shopping in Taipei
If you’re looking for souvenirs to take back home, you will be glad to know there are quite a few places to shop in Taipei.
One of the best places to start is at the city’s night markets, which often have many souvenir stalls selling everything from cute keychains to traditional handicrafts.
For something truly unique, head to the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, which features an array of local designer boutiques and artisanal shops.
Here you can find special, handmade souvenirs, such as pottery, jewelry, and clothing.
Avoid the Crowds and Discover Hidden Gems
If you want to avoid the crowds and discover hidden gems, some of the best traditional markets and souvenir shops can be found in Taipei’s outlying neighborhoods.
Shida Night Market is a great place to hunt for unique, handcrafted souvenirs and accessories. It is located near the National Taiwan Normal University.
Another option is the Ciguang Pavilion, located in the Wanhua District.
This market is known for its traditional Taiwanese snacks and delicacies and is a great place to pick up some tasty souvenirs for friends and family.
Electronics Shopping in Taipei
If you are looking forward to electronics shopping in Taipei, the city offers an unparalleled selection of gadgets, devices, and accessories.
From the latest smartphones to cutting-edge computer components, Taipei has it all.
If you’re a tech enthusiast, Taipei is the perfect place to indulge in your passion for electronics.
One of the best places to start your electronics shopping spree in Taipei is the Guanghua Digital Plaza.
This six-story building is packed with shops selling everything from laptops and cameras to gaming consoles and drones.
It’s a tech lover’s paradise, and you could easily spend hours exploring all the shops and stalls.
Another popular electronics shopping destination in Taipei is the Nova Computer Market.
This bustling market is located in the Zhongzheng District and is home to many tech shops and vendors.
You’ll find everything from computer components and accessories to gaming peripherals and VR headsets.
If you’re looking for high-end electronics and gadgets, try visiting the Breeze Center.
This luxurious shopping mall is one of the premier destinations for luxury shopping in Taipei, and it’s home to several upscale electronics stores, including Apple, Sony, and Bose.
Electronics Shopping in Taipei
Shopping Destination |
Highlights |
Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Guanghua Digital Plaza | Six floors of tech shops and vendors | Budget-friendly to mid-range |
| Nova Computer Market | A wide variety of tech shops and vendors | Budget-friendly to mid-range |
| Breeze Center | Upscale electronics stores and luxury shopping experience | Mid-range to high-end |
When shopping for electronics in Taipei, it’s important to note that prices can vary greatly depending on the store and the product.
Be sure to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.
Additionally, many electronics shops in Taipei offer tax-free shopping for foreign visitors, so be sure to bring your passport when you shop.
Tips for Shopping in Taipei
Shopping in Taipei can be an exciting and unique experience, but it’s essential to be well-prepared to make the most of your shopping adventure. Here are some tips to help you navigate Taipei’s shopping scene:
1. Know the Tax Policy
As a visitor, you may be eligible for a tax refund on purchases made in Taipei.
Be sure to ask for a tax refund receipt and keep it safe until you leave the country.
You can claim your refund at the airport before departing Taiwan.
2. Bargain Smartly
Bargaining is common in Taipei, especially in street markets and small shops. However, it’s important to bargain smartly – be polite, friendly, and respectful. Start by offering a reasonable price, and if the seller doesn’t agree, be willing to compromise. Remember, the aim is to find a fair price for both parties.
3. Use Public Transportation
Taipei has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and the metro, which can be a convenient and affordable way of getting around the city.
Consider purchasing an EasyCard or iPass, which are reloadable smart cards that can be used for transportation and purchases in many stores throughout the city.
4. Dress for Comfort
Shopping in Taipei can involve a lot of walking and exploring, so it’s essential to dress comfortably.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, especially during the hot and humid summer months.
5. Plan your Shopping Route
With so many shopping areas and markets in Taipei, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin your shopping adventure.
Research and plan your shopping route, based on your interests and preferences.
Consider dedicating a day or two to exploring a particular area or market.
6. Try the Local Food
Taipei is famous for its diverse food scene, and trying local delicacies can be an integral part of your shopping experience.
Take breaks and explore the food stalls and restaurants in the markets and shopping areas you visit. Don’t be afraid to try new things!
7. Stay Safe
Taipei is a safe city, but it’s always essential to take precautions when shopping.
Be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings close to you, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
If you’re shopping at night, stick to well-lit areas and stay in groups.
Follow these tips and you will enjoy a memorable and successful shopping experience in Taipei, discovering unique treasures and immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant shopping culture.
Before You Go…
Remember to take advantage of Taipei’s shopping culture and embrace the experience. Bargain with vendors, sample delicious street food, and immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions. To make the most out of your shopping adventure, be sure to follow our practical tips, such as carrying cash and wearing comfortable shoes.
And don’t forget to explore all the different shopping areas that Taipei has to offer.
Happy Shopping in Taipei!
Amelia Anderson is an environmentally conscious world explorer who has mastered the art of sustainable travel. Her passion for sustainability has taken her to remote corners of the Earth, where she thrives on conservation projects and spreading awareness about our planet’s beauty on a budget. With a degree in environmental science, Amelia is dedicated to making a positive impact through her cost-effective and eco-friendly adventures.
When she’s not advocating for a greener future, you can either find her penning down her latest travel adventures in a nearby cafe or catching up with friends online from around the world while keeping her travels budget-friendly.
