Visiting Shilin Night Market In Taipei, Taiwan For Street Food!

The smell of exotic putrid delicacies.  Unimaginable gridlock.  Neon flashing before my eyes.  I’m in my element.

The Shilin Night Market located in Taipei, Taiwan is one of the most formidable markets I’ve ever visited in Asia.  Encompassing two distinct sections it is home to over 500 plus food stalls.  Aside from small eateries one can witness movie theatres, karaoke bars, video arcades and a host of other shops lined up along the side streets and alleys.  Between 8 and 11 PM the market is saturated with a surplus of bodies all inching for space that seemingly doesn’t exist.  Many businesses continue operating well past midnight.

I was simply mesmerized by sheer size of the market and the number of human bodies barraging through its crowded alleyways.  The following photo essay is an attempt to replicate what it is like to be part of the hoard that gathers there each and every night:

Shilin Night Market in Taipei, Taiwan

A close-up shot of people sampling some local delicacies.

A candid shot of a Taiwanese lady with a distinct face.

A young Taiwanese vendor dressed in funky attire tries to peddle shoes on the curb.

Various local delicacies (including meat and tofu) are spread out over a grill.

A vendor brushes the stinky tofu (臭豆腐) that lays skewered on the grill.

A shot of the crowd passing through the Shilin Night Market.

A candid shot of a Taiwanese lady.

A Taiwanese lady holding her dog smiles in this photo.

An illuminated pumpkin is on display at food stall.

*As a travel photography tip, one should consider using a fast lens for night photography on the street. A lens I personally recommend is the 50mm 1.8. The wide aperture allows one to take shots that are sharp when shot wide open with an ISO of either 800 or 1600.

A Taiwanese vendor arranges hot cakes that are sold to the crowds passing by.

A child holds onto her mothers back as she is being carried around the market.

A couple embraces with a hug as they wander the along the crowded Shilin Night Market.

A trendy young couple embraces in a vacant section of the market.

Shilin Night Market Guide For Visitors: Information and History

A Historic Market with Modern Charm

Shilin Night Market, nestled in Taipei’s lively Shilin District, is one of Taiwan’s most famous night markets. Established in the early 1900s, it began as a simple market where farmers sold produce during the day. Over the decades, it evolved into the sprawling night market we see today, blending tradition with modern flair.

• Evolution Over Time: Shilin’s transformation from a daytime market into a bustling night market reflects Taipei’s growth. It’s a place where history and modernity coexist, offering a unique experience.

Navigating the Market: A Sensory Adventure

Shilin Night Market is vast, offering a plethora of food stalls, shops, and entertainment options. The market is renowned for its street food, with dishes that range from the daring—like stinky tofu—to the comforting, such as beef noodle soup. But Shilin is more than just a place to eat. The shopping area is equally enticing, with everything from the latest fashion trends to quirky gadgets and traditional crafts.

• Culinary Delights: The food section is a must-visit. Here, you can sample iconic Taiwanese dishes like oyster omelets, fried chicken steaks, and bubble tea. The diversity of flavors ensures there’s something for every palate.

Entertainment Beyond Food and Shopping

Shilin Night Market isn’t just about eating and shopping; it’s a full entertainment experience. The market’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by various carnival games, arcades, and even small theaters. These entertainment options add to the market’s lively ambiance, making it a great spot for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers.

• Fun and Games: Try your hand at classic carnival games or enjoy a round of darts. These activities, along with the bustling crowd, create an atmosphere that’s both lively and engaging.

Why Shilin Night Market Stands Out

What makes Shilin Night Market truly special is its blend of tradition and modernity. While you can find the latest fashion items and modern gadgets, the market also preserves traditional Taiwanese culture, especially through its food. The bustling energy, the variety of offerings, and the historical significance of the market combine to create an experience that’s both unique and deeply connected to Taiwan’s culture.

• Cultural Fusion: The market’s mix of old and new reflects Taiwan’s cultural diversity. It’s a place where visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds—modern conveniences alongside time-honored traditions.

Shilin Night Market Street Food Guide: What Can You Eat?

Shilin Night Market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of Taiwanese street food that’s sure to excite your taste buds. From savory snacks to sweet treats, the variety is endless, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Taiwanese flavors.

• Iconic Stinky Tofu: Love it or hate it, stinky tofu (chòu dòufu) is a must-try at Shilin. This fermented tofu, deep-fried to perfection, has a pungent aroma but delivers a surprisingly mild and delicious taste. It’s often served with a side of pickled vegetables, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory tofu.

Savory Delights

Taiwanese street food is known for its savory offerings, and Shilin Night Market doesn’t disappoint. Here, you’ll find everything from hearty dishes to quick snacks, each with its own unique flavor profile.

• Oyster Omelet: A quintessential Taiwanese dish, the oyster omelet (ézǐ jiān) combines fresh oysters with eggs, sweet potato starch, and leafy greens. The result is a dish that’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, topped with a sweet and savory sauce.
• Taiwanese Fried Chicken: Known locally as jī pái, this massive chicken steak is pounded thin, marinated, and deep-fried until golden brown. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, it’s a crowd favorite at the market.

Sweet Treats

For those with a sweet tooth, Shilin Night Market offers a variety of desserts that are both traditional and innovative. The market’s dessert stalls are a feast for the senses, with colorful displays and enticing aromas.

• Bubble Tea: No visit to Shilin is complete without trying bubble tea (zhēnzhū nǎichá). This beloved Taiwanese drink combines tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. It’s refreshing, sweet, and a perfect way to cool down after indulging in the market’s savory dishes.
• Shaved Ice: Taiwanese shaved ice (bàobīng) is another popular dessert, especially in the warmer months. Piled high with fresh fruit, condensed milk, and sweet syrups, it’s a cooling treat that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Unique Offerings

What sets Shilin Night Market apart from other markets is the variety of unique and unusual street food offerings. These dishes might be less familiar to visitors but are well worth trying for an authentic Taiwanese experience.

• Big Sausage in Small Sausage: This playful dish, known as dà cháng bāo xiǎo cháng, is a Taiwanese specialty. It features a grilled Taiwanese sausage wrapped in a sticky rice “bun,” then topped with garlic, pickles, and a variety of sauces. The combination of flavors and textures is truly one-of-a-kind.
• Grilled Squid: Freshly grilled squid, often brushed with a savory sauce, is another popular item. It’s chewy, flavorful, and perfectly captures the essence of Taiwanese street food.

Meaty Goodness

• Juicy Pork Buns: Shilin is famous for its juicy pork buns, known locally as shēng jiān bāo. These pan-fried buns are crispy on the bottom and soft on top, filled with a juicy pork filling that bursts with flavor. They’re a perfect snack to start your food journey.
• Grilled Meat Skewers: Meat lovers can’t miss the variety of skewers available at the market. Grilled to perfection, these skewers come in all sorts of flavors, from spicy chicken to marinated beef, and even exotic options like grilled intestines. The smoky aroma alone will draw you in.

Comfort Foods and Local Favorites

• Braised Pork Rice: Known as lǔ ròu fàn, this dish is a comforting bowl of steamed rice topped with minced pork braised in soy sauce and spices. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying, often considered a staple in Taiwanese households.
• Fish Ball Soup: For something light yet flavorful, try the fish ball soup (yú wán tāng). The bouncy, chewy fish balls are served in a clear, savory broth, often garnished with a sprinkle of green onions. It’s a soothing dish that provides a nice break from the richer, heavier street foods.

Exploring Sweet and Savory Snacks

• Peanut Roll with Ice Cream: This unique dessert consists of scoops of ice cream rolled in a thin, crepe-like wrapper along with shaved peanut brittle and fresh cilantro. The combination of textures—crispy, creamy, and crunchy—is as delightful as the mix of sweet and slightly savory flavors.
• Candied Fruits: Shilin also offers a variety of candied fruits, often skewered and dipped in a glossy sugar coating. These are both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, offering a sweet, tangy treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

How to Visit Shilin Night Market: Transportation and Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

Getting There: Transportation Options

Shilin Night Market is easily accessible from various parts of Taipei. Thus, it’s a convenient destination for both locals and tourists. Here are the best ways to get there:

• By MRT: The most convenient way to reach Shilin Night Market is by taking the MRT. Take the Red Line to Jiantan Station (劍潭站), not Shilin Station, which is actually farther from the market. Exit 1 of Jiantan Station leads you directly to the market. The MRT is efficient, clean, and the most popular choice among visitors.
• By Bus: Several bus routes stop near Shilin Night Market. Look for buses that stop at Jiantan Station or Shilin District. This option is great if you’re coming from areas not directly served by the MRT.
• By Taxi: Taxis are plentiful in Taipei and can be a good option if you prefer a direct route. The market is well-known, so most drivers will know exactly where to take you. However, traffic can be heavy in the evening, so it’s not always the fastest option.
• By Bike: For a more active approach, consider renting a bike from the city’s YouBike system. There are several YouBike stations near the market, and cycling through Taipei’s streets can be a fun way to see more of the city.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit

Shilin Night Market is large, vibrant, and can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Here are some tips to make sure you get the most out of your experience:

• Arrive Early: While the market is busiest in the evening, arriving early gives you a chance to explore before the crowds become too intense. Plus, you’ll have first dibs on the freshest street food.
• Come Hungry: The sheer variety of food at Shilin means you’ll want to try a little bit of everything. It’s best to arrive with an empty stomach so you can sample as much as possible without feeling too full too soon.
• Bring Cash: Most vendors at Shilin Night Market prefer cash, and while some might accept digital payments, it’s always safer to have cash on hand. ATMs are available, but it’s easier to come prepared.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The market is extensive, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is a must to ensure you can explore the market fully without discomfort.
• Plan Your Route: The market is divided into different sections—food, shopping, and entertainment. Having a rough plan of what you want to see and eat can help you navigate the market more efficiently and ensure you don’t miss out on any must-try items.