By: Cianna Tang

A night market is exactly what it sounds like—a market held at night. It’s a road lined with stalls, some selling food, accessories, ceramics, and other miscellaneous items. Night markets can be found in almost every corner of the world. However, night markets tend to shine the most in Taiwan. What makes Taiwanese night markets so unique compared to others around the world is their overwhelming amount of cultural significance and delicious food. 

Taiwan is known for its unique pantry items that can’t be found anywhere else. So if you’re looking for authentic Taiwanese food, the easiest place to find some is in a night market. 

Some must-try dishes are stinky tofu, a deep-fried fermented tofu dish with a strong odor; popcorn chicken, seasoned chicken with a crispy surface; Taiwan sausage, sweet yet savory sausages; and the ever-popular bubble tea, a sweet and refreshing drink consisting of tea, milk, and tapioca pearls. Just by visiting a night market, even for a few minutes, you’ll get a taste of Taiwan’s vibrant culinary scene. 

Reminiscent of a carnival, it isn’t rare to see games being played in night markets. Many people who come to pass the time can find themselves a game to play. Tourists and locals can enjoy darts, goldfish scooping, ring tossing, pinball, and other games. 

“Shooting Games” has currently been the most popular topic on the internet as a refreshing game using air guns, BB guns, or popping balloons with darts. “Clip Doll” games, or claw machines, are also extremely popular in Taiwan. If you are skilled enough, you may be able to take home genuine Taiwanese dolls for an extremely affordable price. The pinball machine is also a well-liked game that has been a childhood classic for many. 

Over time, people started to open stalls selling clothing, jewelry, handbags, furniture, household appliances, and other trinkets.

Taiwan’s street fashion is undeniably stylish. At a night market, you can find trendy clothing, accessories, and shoes at an affordable price, ranging from casual, wear-at-home pieces, to statement pieces that will turn heads. 

Many locals sell handmade toys, jewelry, and traditional Taiwanese art at night markets, making for great souvenirs. Keychains, magnets, and other trinkets featuring iconic Taiwanese landmarks and items.

Some stalls offer packaged snacks, teas, and other edible items that you can take home, including local specialties like dried fruits, pineapple cakes, and rice crackers.

Taiwanese night markets are a sensory heaven that every tourist traveling to Taiwan needs to check out. The cultural scenery, the buzz of conversation, and the smell of delicious food make Taiwanese night markets a must-visit experience.