The 5 Best Night Markets in Taipei + everything you need to know before visiting
Ingrid
If there’s one thing you absolutely cannot miss during a trip to Taipei, it’s the night markets. These bustling, vibrant hubs of food, culture, and energy are at the heart of Taiwan’s street food scene. The night markets in Taipei offer a sensory overload—in the best way possible—where the aroma of grilled skewers, the sizzle of fried dumplings, and the sight of endless food stalls greet you at every turn.
I had the chance to explore some of Taipei’s night markets during my recent visit, and I’m here to share my top picks. Whether you’re a food lover or just curious about local culture, these night markets have something for everyone!
1. Shilin Night Market
📍 Location: Shilin District, near Jiantan MRT Station (Red Line)
Shilin Night Market is arguably the most famous night market in Taipei, and for good reason. This massive market is a food lover’s paradise, packed with endless stalls offering everything from savory snacks to decadent desserts.
What Makes It Special: Shilin isn’t just about food—it’s also home to countless shops where you can find clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and even fun arcade games. I recommend taking your time wandering around after your meal to explore everything this lively market has to offer.
2. Raohe Street Night Market
📍 Location: Songshan District, near Songshan MRT Station (Green Line)
Raohe Street Night Market is one of the oldest and most traditional night markets in Taipei. It has a single, long street packed with food vendors, and the atmosphere is a bit more relaxed than Shilin, making it perfect for a more intimate night market experience.
What Makes It Special: Raohe is less commercial than some other markets and feels more authentically local. Plus, it’s located next to the beautiful Ciyou Temple, so you can start your visit by taking in a bit of culture before diving into the food.
3. Ningxia Night Market
📍 Location: Datong District, near Shuanglian MRT Station (Red Line)
Ningxia Night Market is smaller but mighty when it comes to its reputation for top-notch street food. This market has a cozy, community vibe, making it a favorite among locals and foodies alike.
What Makes It Special: Ningxia is all about the food, making it perfect for serious foodies looking to sample traditional Taiwanese dishes. There’s less focus on shopping here, so it’s ideal for an evening dedicated solely to eating your way through the stalls.
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4. Huaxi Street Night Market (Snake Alley)
📍 Location: Wanhua District, near Longshan Temple MRT Station (Blue Line)
Huaxi Street Night Market, also known as "Snake Alley," is one of Taipei’s most unique night markets, with a reputation for selling exotic foods, including snake soup. But don’t worry—there’s plenty for the less adventurous eater, too!
What Makes It Special: Huaxi is steeped in history and a little more offbeat than the other night markets. Located near Longshan Temple, it’s a great place to visit after exploring the temple and nearby area. Whether you're an adventurous eater or just curious, Huaxi offers a fascinating glimpse into Taipei’s culinary culture.
5. Linjiang Street Night Market (Tonghua Night Market)
📍 Location: Da'an District, near Xinyi Anhe MRT Station (Red Line)
Linjiang Street Night Market, often called Tonghua Night Market, is a smaller, less touristy market that offers an authentic taste of local life. This is where you’ll see more locals grabbing a quick bite after work, which gives it a more laid-back atmosphere.
What Makes It Special: If you’re looking for a more local experience away from the main tourist areas, Linjiang Street Night Market is perfect. It’s small but full of hidden gems, making it great for a relaxed evening of food exploration.
My Tips for Navigating Taipei’s Night Markets:
- Bring Cash: Most vendors don’t accept cards, so make sure to bring enough New Taiwan Dollars (TWD) to cover your snacks and purchases.
- Go Hungry: It’s easy to overeat, but that’s the fun part! Start light and try a bit of everything.
- Avoid Peak Times: Night markets can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Arrive early if you want to beat the rush.
- Pace Yourself: The food options are endless, so take your time exploring. There’s no need to rush—it’s all about enjoying the experience.
No matter which night market you visit, you’re in for a delicious adventure. The vibrant energy, the sizzling food, and the colorful lights make Taipei’s night markets a truly unique experience. If you love food, culture, and a little bit of chaos (in the best way), these night markets should be at the top of your Taipei itinerary!