The sun has just set in Taipei, and after finding accommodation and strolling through the 228 Peace Memorial Park, you want to enjoy the bright lights of the city. But what to do? Here are a few suggestions…
Visit a night market
These celebrated staples of Taipei come alive after dark, offering a colorful assortment of food vendors, clothing shops, arcades, karaoke bars and more. Many night markets are within walking distance of Taipei Metro stops, so be sure to bring your sense of adventure. You’ll also want to bring your appetite as you’re sure to want to sample the likes of black pepper buns, meat pockets, stinky tofu, Chinese fried chicken and oyster omelets from the various vendors. The most well-known are Shilin Night Market, Huaxi Street Tourist Night Market (also known as Snake Alley) and Raohe Street Night Market.
See a show
When in a city as culturally rich as Taipei you cannot miss out on experiencing its performing arts. The National Theater & Concert Hall is two interconnected venues which hosts ballets, orchestras, operas and both traditional and international drama. Taipei is also home to several multiplexes, including an IMAX theater in Zhongshan and a number of English-language theaters.
Eat!
What good is a trip to Taipei without enjoying its one-of-a-kind cuisine? Influenced by China, Japan and local traditions, food in Taipei is as eclectic as it is delectable. Try a succulent pork-filled Taiwanese hamburger – known locally as gua boa, salty rice pudding, or an iron egg – a quail egg drenched in soy sauce and then air-dried, to get a real taste of Taipei. If you’re in the mood for dessert, try the flaky cake containing maltose known as a suncake, or aiyu ice jelly, a fig-based gelatin decked with fresh fruits and served with ice on hot summer nights.