Every Taipei Night Market You Should Visit When Traveling to Taiwan

Taipei Night Market | Source: Unsplash/Ivan Hutomo

No trip to Taipei would be complete without exploring and immersing yourself in one of the city's many night markets. They offer a premier eating experience, featuring countless booths and restaurants that serve delicious local Taiwan food from hot and cold to spicy and sweet…and everything in between. Walking, eating, and conversing with friends and family are intertwined with traditional culture and history. The night markets compiled in this article are undoubtedly the most visited and talked about in all of Asia.

Below you'll discover exactly why you need to visit a Taipei night market the next time you're in Taiwan. Moreover, you'll learn why these hot spots are such a significant embodiment of culture.

10 Best Taipei Night Markets to Visit

#1 Shilin Night Market

Shilin Night Market | Source: Trip.com

Shilin is the night market of all night markets and not just in Taipei but perhaps in the world. Located between Jihe and Wenling roads, you can explore 500+ vendors, each offering a different taste of Taiwan. If you're eager to experience the very best of Taipei night market food, then you must traverse through the enormous food court. It is located underground and is completely air-conditioned, a delight to those traveling during Taiwan's warmer seasons. From stuffed rice sausages and bubble tea to pan-fried buns and stinky tofu, you'll discover a world of local food that'll delight your taste buds.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

The Shilin Night Market is open daily from 4pm to 12am and is free to enter.

Given this is one of the most popular, if not the most popular, night markets in Taipei, it is important that you plan ahead to avoid large crowds, especially during the peak travel season. The best time to visit is after 7pm if you want to immerse yourself in the local street market culture. At 4pm, crowds are few, and there's not much to see. After 12am, many shops will have already closed, and the market will be mostly quiet. So maybe the best time to visit is somewhere between them.

How do I get there?

Getting to the Shilin is easy. If traveling by car, simply take Jihe Road up the Western side of the Shilin Night Market. The metro is a convenient and cost-effective option for many travelers. Getting off at the Jiantan Metro stop and leaving through Exit 1 should put you within walking distance of the market.

#2 Ningxia Night Market

Ningxia Night Market | Source: Trip.com

Venturing up the Ningxia road and situated near the iconic Dadaocheng and Dihua Street, Ningxia is a must-visit among other Taipei night markets. It is a great place for the entire family, offering many children's games, like balloon darts and more.

You should definitely try the very popular deep-fried oyster/shrimp and balls, perhaps the most iconic food option in the market that has also been Michelin-recognized. Of course, Rong's Pork Liver is a must-try, which has also been Michelin-recognized and features the best shredded chicken and rice you'll probably eat in Taipei.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

Ningxia Night Market is open daily from 5pm to 1am, but you should get there a lot earlier than midnight hour. This Taipei night market time may seem opportunistic. However, the best time to get there is around 8:30pm when the place truly comes alive. Moreover, it can get a bit crowded by then, so leaving too late might leave you and your crew stuck in waves of tourists and locals.

How do I get there?

The easiest and more convenient way to get there is via the Taipei Metro Red Line to Shuanglian Station. Once departing, you should head west to the Minsheng West Road, and within minutes, you will see the market entrance. You are also welcome to use a ride-sharing app or taxi, like Uber (yes, Taiwan uses Uber), if taking the metro doesn't exactly suit you. Regardless of how you get there, this is one market you don't want to miss out on.

#3 Raohe Night Market

Raohe Night Market | Source: Trip.com

If Shilin is Taipei's most popular and iconic night market, then the Raohe night market is undoubtedly its runner-up. Albeit a bit smaller and less crowded than the others, it features amazing vendors and food you will never forget once you've tasted it.

Raohe Night Market | Source: Trip.com

The Fuzhou Shizu Black Pepper Buns is a dish every Taipei night market or perhaps every market worldwide should be serving. You most definitely have to try the Michelin-recognized Chen Dong Ribs, which have been stewed deliciously in medicinal herbs. From fish stew to spicy tofu, you are sure to get your money's worth visiting this incredible night market.

Like any Taipei night market shopping adventure, there are plenty of booths and shops to explore that offer incredible gifts and souvenirs.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

The Raohe Night Market is open from 5pm to 11pm daily and is easy to find via various transportation. With that said, the best time to visit is between 6-7pm. During this time, most, if not all, the shops and restaurants will be open for your enjoyment. Arriving too early, you might find many of the vendors are either still preparing or opening up. Visiting near the closing time, many shops may already be closed.

How do I get there?

The Raohe Night Market is located in Songshan District, and the easiest way to get there is by taking the Taipei MRT Green Line to Songshan Station. When leaving Exit 5, cross the street from Ciyou Temple, and after turning right, the market you should see the market. Of course, feel free to get there by car if you're eager to experience a beautiful Taipei night market time experience faster.

#4 Huaxi Night Market

Huaxi Night Market | Source: Trip.com

Also known as Snake Alley, Huaxi Night Market is perhaps the most infamous Taipei night market. Wanhua District (Old Taipei) is known for the Longshan Temple, where Guanshiyin Budda and other divine spirits have long been the protector of the area.

Years ago, many restaurants specialized in cooking snake meat, which explains the market's iconic nickname, Snake Alley. From watching snake stews being made to drinking medicinal liquor made from snakes, tourists worldwide are attracted to the wonders that fill the Huaxi Night Market. The overt graphic days have been long gone, but the market itself is still alive and filled with incredible food and many nightlife attractions for the world.

Perhaps the best thing about Huaxi is that there are 4 different night markets that are seamlessly connected, including Xichang Street Night Market, Guangzhou Street Night Market, Huaxi Street Night Market, and Wuzhou Street Night Market. This quadruples the food, culture, and fun you were hoping to experience in Taipei.

Huaxi Night Market | Source: Trip.com

Like many night markets in Taipei, Huaxi also features Michelin-recognized food that is more than worth checking out. The Hsiao Wang steamed minced pork, and pickles broth features historical recipes blended and optimized to provide you with the perfect dish. If you're not hungry, there are plenty of foot and body massage parlors around nearby.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

Huaxi Night Market is open daily from 4pm to 12am. However, the best time to visit is during the night time from 7-8pm when all vendors and booths are fully open.

How do I get there?

The Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) will get you there fast and easily via transferring to the Taipei MRT to Lungshan Temple Station. If traveling via highway, take Nat'l Hwy 1 and exit at the Huanbei Interchange. After, travel via the Huanhe Expressway to Guilin Road, then Huaxi St.

#5 Shida Night Market

Taiwan Sausage | Source: Unsplash/Lisanto

Shida Night Market is located in Taipei's university area and is very much popular among the local youth. Visiting this Taipei night market, you will notice that it is smaller, but you'll also enjoy lower vendor prices and plenty of bar, club, and café options.

There is a delicious spread of assorted fried snacks, beef noodle soup, salt-water chicken, and, of course, Jian bing, known as the local egg crepe roll. If you are searching on your Taipei night market map and seeking more upbeat areas, Shida Night Market is the place for you.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

If venturing to the Shida Night Market Monday through Friday, it is open from 4pm to 11pm daily, and on the weekends, you get an extra hour of food and shopping before venturing off to the nearby clubs and bars. Like with any Taipei night market, it is best to get there in the night hours between 6-8pm to fully experience the local area and all the delicious food that awaits you.

How do I get there?

The MRT green route via the Songshan-Xindian line is a great option for getting to the area. After leaving Exit 3, walk along Roosevelt Road for about 5 minutes, then turn right. The Shida Market should be there.

#6 Jingmei Night Market

Taipei Night Market | Source: Unsplash/Weiwei

Located near the beautiful Jingmei River separating Taipei City from New Taipei City at the most southern point sits the intriguing Jingmei Night Market. If you're looking to take a break from the touristy hot spots and experience something more local, this is the market for you.

In addition to the delicious food scene, you'll also find other attractions to unwind, like facial and body massages. After a long day, if you are touring a Taipei night market, there's nothing better than enjoying an incredible massage to send you on your way.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

You can easily find Jingmei Night Market in Wenshan District, which opens daily from 5-11pm. However, like the markets mentioned above, you should get there in the early evening from 7-9pm if you plan on traveling in summer and desire cooler surrounding when sampling the night market.

How do I get there?

Once you get to the Jingmei Station via the MRT Green Line, depart from exit 1, and you should see the market clear as day. However, if the MTR is not the best option for you, there are plenty of taxis available for your convenience.

#7 Liaoning Street Night Market

Taiwan Night Market | Source: Unsplash/Lisanto

Liaoning Street Night Market is yet another Taipei night market that's away from the touristy hot spots. Although it only takes up one block, the food (especially seafood) here is just as good as others.

You are sure to find incredible dishes for great prices while strolling through a slightly laid-back environment.

You should definitely try the seafood stir-fry, oyster omelet, and fried goose, among many other excellent choices.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

The Liaoning Night Market is open every day from 4pm-9pm. Like the others, it is best that you arrive early in the evening, perhaps around 7pm, when most of the shops are readily open. Although there are fewer crowds, you don't want to miss out on any of the delectable food on offer.

How do I get there?

Liaoning is located in Zhongshan District, about a 10-min walk from Nanjing Fuxing metro station. From there, walk towards Liaoning St., and you'll see it. If you're not in the mood for metros or walking too much, a taxi or Uber will get you there faster and smoother.

#8 Tonghua (Linjiang Street) Night Market

Tonghua Night Market | Source: Trip.com

Next on the list is, you guessed it, another Taipei night market. However, compared to the others, especially the touristy ones, Tonghua Night Market features the best local and traditional local dishes you'll hope to find in Taipei. Most of the dishes that are sold here have recipes that date back several decades and have not changed at all.

There are countless dishes that we recommend you try. First, the Yi Kou Jin Su Stinky Tofu is something every first-timer should try, along with the vegetarian stall if you have dietary restrictions.

Tonghua Night Market | Source: Trip.com

There are also a few Michelin-recognized places that deserve visiting, including a dessert shop called Yu Pin Yuan Iced and Hot Tangyuan, Luo Ji Xiao Chao, which serves classic fried fare, and Liang Ji Lu Wei, where you can find delicious soy sauce braised foods.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

Vendors in Tonghua Night Market usually begin opening around 6pm, and the market closes at around 12am at midnight. If you get there around 8pm, you should be able to fully experience everything, perfect for foodies and those interested in Taipei night market shopping.

How do I get there?

If traveling by metro, it is best that you take the red line to the Xinyi Anhe MRT Station. Depart from Exit 3, then walk to Tonghua Street. After, turn right, and before long, you will see the market on your left side.

#9 Ximending Night Market

Taipei Night Market | Source: Unsplash/Markus Winkler

Most consider Ximending as a shopping neighborhood rather than a Taipei night market. Although the area doesn't have a long street jammed with food stalls, you will still find plenty of delicious food that you will enjoy.

Prepare to experience the best beef cubes, sesame oil chicken, tofu, and even candied tomatoes. However, perhaps the most popular option is the hot-star large fried chicken, serving the largest chicken breasts you can find in Taipei for low prices.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

The Ximending Night Market is open daily from 5pm-10pm, and we recommend you get there at around 7-8pm when most, if not all, the vendors are open for business. There are fewer crowds here compared to other major night markets, thereby providing you with a better experience when strolling throughout the market.

How do I get there?

The best way to get there is to take the blue line to Ximen Station and depart from exit 1. After, walk towards the Ximending Pedestrian Area. Wanhua District is not hard to find, so if you want to take a taxi or Uber instead, you can get to the Ximending Night Market faster.

#10 Miaokou Night Market

Miaokou Night Market | Source: Trip.com

First, when visiting this amazing Taipei Night Market, you will notice the beautiful display of yellow lanterns lining the streets. Venturing here, you will also enjoy the freshest seafood Taipei has to offer. If that's not convincing enough, just remember that celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain once ate here. His reputation alone brings in a sea of visitors from around the world.

From butter crab and chicken rolls to braised eel soup and bubble ice, you'll never run short of delicious food, snacks, drinks, and more.

When does it open & when's the best time to visit?

Different from the many markets mentioned above, Miaokou Night Market opens earlier at 12pm-12am, Monday to Saturday, and 8am to 12am on Sunday. Getting there right after noon, so you can enjoy an incredible afternoon stroll with the family. Or, you can visit in the evening hours for a fantastic dinner with friends. That's the beauty of having such long business hours!

How do I get there?

You can take the metro or bus #1813 to Keelung Station. Then, walk along Zhong Yi Road towards Ai Si Road, and the market should appear before you know it. You can always take a taxi or Uber, but if this is your first time in Taipei, you should take the metro to experience everything the area has to offer fully.

The best restaurants across Taipei's night market

#1 Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle

Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle | Source: Trip.com

As indicated in the photo above, this restaurant has been a staple in the Shilin Night Market for decades. They specialize in traditional rice noodles and abide by recipes that have not changed in years. For culture lovers, this is the Taipei night market for you.

Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle | Source: Trip.com

Given that it is a popular place, queues are long. But if you push through the trouble, it is well worth the wait. Flour-rice noodles are incredibly delicious and healthy compared to some of the greasier options you might find in the market. They are typically made with two simple ingredients: rice flour and water. It is hand-made, which explains the chewy and springy texture. If you prefer noodles with an irresistible taste, then definitely check out this vendor while touring the market.

Shilin Night Market is open from 4pm to 12am every day. It is best to arrive between 7pm-9pm to ensure you get a hot bowl of traditional rice noodles while fully experiencing the market nightlife.

How do I get there?

The restaurant's address is No.8-1 Emei Street, Wanhua, Taipei, Taiwan. If venturing by metro, you can get to the Shilin Market via the Jiantan Metro station and leave through Exit 1.

#2 Fuzhou Black Pepper Bun

Raohe Night Market | Source: Trip.com

This Michelin-recognized vendor serves the best Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns you could ever hope for at any Taipei night market. It is a legendary food stall not only in the Raohe Night market but in all of Taiwan.

To put it simply, black pepper buns are a form of cake or biscuit which originates in China's Fujian province, Fuzhou. Since then, this delicious food has become warmly welcomed by the locals. It is cooked with common ingredients like flour, water, and meat. The mince is marinated with soy sauce, black pepper, and scallions to create the perfect flavor people know and love.

If you're hoping to have a bite of this Michelin-recognized street dish that is incredibly affordable, then these are the buns for you.

How do I get there?

As mentioned above, the Raohe Night Market is located in Taipei's Songshan District, and you can get there by taking the Taipei MRT Green Line to Songshan Station. Once you depart from Exit 5, cross the street from Ciyou Temple. Inside the market, you are sure to find the popular booth, either by the long queue, workers in orange aprons, or by the smell of delectable black pepper buns.

#3 Ningxia Eel Noodles (台南熊鱼意缅)

Eel Noodles Vendor | Source: Trip.com

The Ningxia Night Market is filled with tons of incredible food and interesting vendors, and among the sea of options, you must try the local eel noodles. There are also a ton of other seafood and meat options that you can add, like beef and pork. Not only are the options inexpensive, as you would expect at a local market, but they are also incredibly delicious. Feel free to take them with you as you stroll through the market.

Each piece of eel is incredibly tender to the bite, and when combined with the incredibly delectable broth and appetizing sauce, you'll have an explosion of deliciousness that'll lure you to come back for more. Some may be a bit garlicky, so bring a few breath mints or strips of chewing gum if you're worried about bad breath afterward.

You can interact with the locals that are sure to be dining there while taking in the sights and sounds of a typical Taipei night market.

How do I get there?

Getting to the Ningxia night market is an absolute breeze. If traveling by metro, take the Taipei Metro Red Line to Shuanglian Station. After departing the station, walk towards Minsheng West Road, and a few minutes later, you should see the market entrance. If you're like a cat on hot bricks and can't stand the wait, then you can always take a taxi or Uber and get to the market faster if traffic is not an issue.

#4 Grilled Seafood, Tonghua Night Market

Grilled Fish | Source: Trip.com

There are tons of vendors selling fresh seafood throughout the Tonghua Night Market. However, you should get it grilled if you ever have the chance. This is a popular stop among tourists and locals, and you can even get a sizeable portion for cheap. Most fishes, like sea bass, red snapper, grouper, and halibut, are all excellent options for sizzling. From shrimp to lobster, you'll get to enjoy incredible seafood grilled to perfection over a charcoal grill, which is a taste only possible in Asia.

Grilled Fish | Source: Trip.com

How do I get there?

If traveling by metro, it is best that you take the red line to the Xinyi Anhe MRT Station. Depart from Exit 3, then walk to Tonghua Street. After, turn right, and before long, you will see the market on your left side.

#5 Hai Yu Pork Ribs

Hai Yu Pork Ribs | Source: Trip.com

This is another gem in the Shilin Night Market, as you can tell by the long line in the picture above. Your trip would be incomplete without trying the renowned Hai Yu Pork Ribs. This Michelin-recognized hot spot specializes in making Herbal soups with herbal-stewed ribs. These two dishes have helped the restaurant to stay strong in business for over 45 years.

Hai Yu Pork Ribs Soup | Source: Trip.com

Their famous pork ribs are cooked to perfection with a mixture of 15 different traditional herbs. Not only are they delicious beyond belief, but they are also light enough for those who want a tasty snack while venturing to other areas in the market.

If you're not a huge fan of pork, they also have an equally delicious Chicken Drumstick Soup that has less fat using the same soup and herbs.

How do I get there?

Hai Yu Pork Ribs is located at 49 Dadong Road, Shilin District, Taipei, Taipei & Taichung. You can find it in the Shilin Night Market. To get to the market, take the metro via the Jiantan Metro Station and leave through Exit 1.

When's the best time to visit Taipei night markets?

If you want the clear blue sky and great weather to keep you company, then it would be better to visit Taipei during the winter months (October-December) or during the Spring (March-May). During the March-May months, the temperatures are steady at around 22°C (around 71°F) with relatively light rain compared to summer months. You can also experience the beautiful cherry trees during the day without worrying about the chilling temperatures prevalent in winter months.

June to August marks the hottest time in Taipei, with temperatures reaching nearly 40°C (104°F). Not ideal for those wanting to tour the city during the day. June, particularly, also overlaps with its monsoon season, where rainfall is at its peak.

If you're worried about large crowds, especially in the night markets, then you should know the peak season usually lasts from May to September. There's also a second peak season during the Chinese Lunar New Year holiday, which ballparks at the end of January or early February. During this time, hotels tend to fill up fast, and the markets become busier than ever throughout the year.

November to January is considered to be the low season, where you will find cheaper lodging, fewer crowds, and tons of bargains for market food and tourist attractions.

What should I know before visiting Taipei?

Politeness is not only expected when touring Taipei but is also a profound part of local culture. Always thank vendors when receiving food and greet them pleasantly when approaching the stall.

Depending on how long you intend to stay in Taipei, you might pick up on a few simple Mandarin phrases, like "nǐ hǎo" for hello and "xièxie" for thank you. However, if you have the time, master these phrases or other practical ways to show your appreciation before venturing, and you'll undoubtedly impress the locals. This is not mandatory, of course. It will just be the cherry on top of your trip to Taipei or any other region in Taiwan fully.

Prepare for the weather. If you're going during the rainy season, bring flip-flops, an umbrella, and an extra change of clothes. Pack a light jacket for the evenings if you're going during the colder months.

FAQ: Top Taipei Night Market You Should Visit When Traveling to Taiwan