The island state of Taiwan is increasingly popular for its bustling street food scene and picturesque sights and is an easy recommendation for those looking to travel in Asia. Its capital city of Taipei is naturally an obvious first stop for many tourists, with a sprawling metropolis packed with plenty to see, do, eat, and shop. The latter is especially thrilling if you know where to visit, whether it be flea markets to niche boutiques and luxury malls. Read our Taipei shopping guide so you can easily navigate the city on your trip.
Taipei is home to the tallest building in the city, packed with amazing attractions, and an economic powerhouse. This incredible city has so much to offer with its buzzy nightlife, majestic skyscrapers, and stunning historical architecture. It’s no surprise that many flock to the city to get a first-hand experience of the very best of what Taiwan has to offer.
And one thing visitors can’t forget (or ignore) is shopping. Whether you’re on the lookout for souvenirs, need to refresh your wardrobe, or are itching to try local snacks, you have plenty of surprises waiting in the Taiwanese capital. Our guide to shopping in Taipei breaks down all the best products to buy, the must-see shopping malls, and the go-to shopping markets and streets.
Remember to bookmark this Taipei shopping guide.
Taipei shopping guide: The best markets in the city
The best products to buy in Taipei
Cakes and pastries
Did you really go to Taiwan without bringing home a pack of pineapple cake? Taiwan’s cakes and pastries make for a great souvenir but they’re also simply delicious. Besides the popular pineapple cakes, get the mung bean and sun cakes. Whether it’s for a morning nibble or afternoon tea companion, these cakes and pastries are too delicious to ignore.
Pearl Milk Tea
Of course, it’s just a given that you have to buy pearl milk tea in the land of milk tea. If you aren’t tired of it yet, can’t get enough of it, or have grown to love it during your trip, it’s time to spread the love around. While you can purchase pearl milk tea drinks, bring the magic of it back home with pearl milk tea souvenirs. There are numerous milk tea-flavoured snacks or candies, or you can get all the ingredients you need to make one.
Tea
Other than bubble tea, drinking tea is embedded in Taiwanese culture. So, it only feels right to sample some of the best tea flavours out there. With its tea-drinking culture, it’s not surprising there are also many tea-themed souvenirs and gifts available. Of course, nothing beats just getting the tea firsthand whether it is pre-packaged bags or leaves for brewing. We recommend Jasmine or Oolong but the Oolong tea from Alishan is one of the best—and priciest.
Taiwanese sausages
Chances are, you’ve seen night market stalls in Taiwan selling Taiwanese sausages. And yes, they’re not your regular sausages. Taiwanese sausages are made from fatty pork and lard and are on the sweeter side. But they can be spicy too. They are available in frozen packs for visitors to bring home.
Glass
There are plenty of wonderful handicrafts in Taiwan, but glass art is one of the most impressive, especially those created using glass-blowing techniques. If you have the budget for it, this is a must-have. However, the precise techniques and craftsmanship that go into creating a piece definitely make the price worth it.
The best shopping malls in Taipei
Taipei 101 Shopping Centre
A trip to Taipei is not complete without a visit to the iconic Taipei 101. So, shop at the tallest building in Taiwan where you’ll find a range of high-end fashion brands. Many tend to ignore the lower floors for the killer panoramic views high above but it’s well worth a visit. Besides the building’s impressive postmodernist architectural exterior, the inside also has an equally impressive design. Open spaces with bright marble floors and a vibe of polished luxury befitting the fashion brands available.
Address: No. 45, Shifu Road, Xinyi District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +886 2-8101-8800
Website: taipei-101.com.tw
Taipei City Mall
Taipei City Mall, also known as the Taipei Main Station Underground Mall, is the largest and longest underground shopping street in Taiwan. It connects the Taiwan Railway Administration, Taiwan Speed Rail, Taipei Metro, and more. Needless to say, hundreds or even thousands of visitors, commuters, and locals visit the mall regularly. It’s perfect for budget shopping but especially a convenient choice when you’re on the go or returning from a long trip. Browse through the four sections of clothing, electronics, food, and novelty items. If you need some last-minute shopping, this is also the place for it.
Address: B1, No.100, Shimin Boulevard, Section 1, Zhongzheng District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +886-2-2559-4566
Website: taipeimall.com.tw/en
Breeze Centre
Many consider Breeze Centre as the first ‘American-style’ shopping mall in Taipei, that opened its doors in 2001. Eventually, it became the Breeze brand’s flagship mall with plenty of other outlets across Taipei. The 12-storey shopping mall is the go-to place for entertainment along with mid-range and luxury shopping. The mall boasts brands like Louis Vuitton and Calvin Klein, but shoppers can also catch a movie in the cinema or dine at the food court. Each floor has its own ‘theme’ making it easier to shop. For instance, the ground floor sells footwear while the third floor is for tea and coffee. There’s even an entire floor just for Uniqlo.
Address: No. 39, Section 1, Fuxing South Road, Songshan District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +886-2-660-8888
Website: breezecenter.com
East Metro Mall
East Metro Mall is an underground shopping mall that sits seamlessly near two train stations. It’s an ideal pit stop for those who want to squeeze in some quick shopping or last-minute souvenir hunting. The mall is great for those on a budget as shoppers can look through numerous affordable products. You’ll find rows of boutiques selling apparel, novelty items, and other knick-knacks at a bargain. Need a replenishment after all the shopping? A food trip it is, and East Metro Mall has plenty to offer. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast or a light afternoon tea, take your pick.
Address: No. 77, Section 1, Zhongxiao East Road, Da-an District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +866-2-2536-3001
Wan Nian Building
From a futuristic mall to an old-time shopping paradise Nan Nian Building, has been around since the 1970s. While many bigger, newer shopping malls popped up in the capital, Wan Nian Building stood the test of time. It is now home to an arcade and amusement centre, restaurants, cafes, and an ice-skating rink. Besides its striking retro exterior, the shopping mall is well-known for its toy stores, anime figures, comic books, and other items that appeal to the youth. Those who want to recall nostalgic memories of visiting the ice-skating rink after school or anticipating the latest manga issue will surely have a blast here.
Address: No.70, Xining Road, Wanhua District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +886-2-23816282
Bellavita
With a name like Bellavita and a European cathedral-like exterior, it’s no surprise this shopping mall draws inspiration from Europe. Befitting its concept, this shopping mall is home to luxury brands and even has a Lamborghini showroom in addition to an art gallery. Other impressive features include the use of natural stones, flowing water and plants, and maximising natural sunlight. Step inside this gorgeous shopping mall and you’ll instantly feel like you’ve been transported to Europe.
Address: No.28, Songren Road, Xinyi District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +866 2-8792-2771
Website: bellavita.com.tw
Miramar Entertainment Park
Taiwan may be known for its night markets, but they also have expansive shopping complexes. Take, for instance, Miramar Entertainment Park. This all-in-one shopping and entertainment park has one aim: to keep visitors occupied for the whole day. That is why, it has almost everything a visitor could need, from shopping to food, and entertainment. One of the mall’s most visible features is the Ferris wheel. The 95-metre-high attraction also lights up at night, making it a must-see from afar. In addition, it also makes for a great vantage point to see the Taipei cityscape.
Address: No.20, Jingye 3rd Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei, Hong Kong
Phone: +886-2-2175-3456
The best shopping streets and markets in Taipei
Ximending
When thinking of shopping in Taipei, Ximending simply tops the list. Ximending is Taipei’s answer to Tokyo’s Ueno and Hong Kong’s Mong Kok where you’ll find the trendiest and most affordable stores and products. The youth energy is pulsing at Ximending but be rest assured that shoppers of all ages are welcome here. Browse through the endless rows of beauty and skincare products, souvenir stores, retail outlets, food stalls, and more. It’s even better to shop at night when the entire place bustles with the crowd.
Address: Shi-men Ting, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +866-2-2375-4205
Website: ximen.com.tw
Wufenpu
Venture into the maze-like Wupenfu for all the cheap finds. This outdoor market is the best place for bargain apparel and adorable shopping. Make your way through the labyrinth of clothing stores and racks of accessories. We won’t be surprised if you buy enough to refresh your entire wardrobe. The area is home to garment makers who also operate their own shops and has been one of the largest garment districts in Taipei. A true shop until you drop experience.
Address: Yongji Street, Xinyi District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +866-2-2764-1381
Yongkang Street
The creme de la creme of affordable yet quality dining has to be Yongkang Street. Sample dozens of famous Taiwanese dishes and treats such as xiaolongbao or beef noodles. The street is said to be the origin of Taipei’s alley culture. The street is lined with shops and street vendors selling all sorts of products like snacks, clothing, crafts, electronics, and more. While it’s only a kilometre in length, this place is brimming with people who are shopping and eating. It’s also just walking distance from Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, making it a great pit spot after sightseeing.
Address: Yongkang Street, Da’an District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +866-2-235-15793
Shilin Night Market
It’s already a known fact that Taipei is a mecca for night markets. Shilin Night Market is one, if not the, most popular night market in Taiwan. And a Taipei shopping guide is not complete without mentioning it. A haven for foodies, the night market doesn’t just feed hungry dwellers with amazing delights, but shoppers can also buy souvenirs, snacks, and even apparel and accessories. It’s your all-in-one hub for shopping and eating. Make sure to come hungry, the smell of food from a mile away will lure you in.
Address: No.101, Jhe Road, Shilin District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +866-2-2550-5220
Raohe Street Night Market
Another must-visit spot for foodies is Raohe Street Night Market. It is often overlooked and shadowed by its more popular cousin. And since Raohe is smaller it is ideal for those looking to get away from Shilin’s bustling crowd. There are plenty of food to try here such as oyster vermicelli, pepper meat buns, stinky tofu, and more.
Address: Section 4, Bade Road, Fuyuan Street, Songshan District, Taipei, Taiwan
Phone: +866-2-2550-5220
We hope you find our Taipei shopping guide helpful. Happy travelling!
All images: Courtesy Vernon Raineil Cenzon/Unsplash
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Pineapple cake, pearl milk tea, and Taiwanese sausage are among the must-buys from Taipei.
Taipei is famous for Taipei 101, night markets, and street food.
Shilin Night Market is the most famous night market in Taipei.
Tags
Written by
Jianne Soriano
Digital Writer (Growth) - Dining, Culture & Travel
An introvert at heart, Jianne has an immense passion for storytelling. This Filipino, Hong Kong-born native is a certified foodie and cinephile. When she’s not writing, you can find her chilling at cafes, watching movies, or travelling solo.
