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Shilin Night Market
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Landmark
Shilin Night Market in Taipei's Shilin district is one of Taiwan's largest and most iconic night markets. Originating in the 1910s, it now hosts over 500 food stalls and shops. The market is split into a traditional section on Jihe Street and surrounding alleys. Signature dishes include giant fried chicken steak, oyster omelette, stinky tofu, and bubble tea. It operates daily from around 4 PM to midnight. The market draws an estimated 50,000-100,000 visitors per day, with weekends seeing surges. It provides over 5,000 jobs and contributes significantly to the local economy. Recent renovations have improved sanitation and infrastructure. Beyond food, the market gives affordable clothing, accessories, and electronics, making it a major shopping and gastronomic destination.
- Location: Taiwan
- Top sights: National Taiwan Science Education Center · Taipei Astronomical Museum · Taipei Performing Arts Center
- Nearby: New Taipei City (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 15 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 26 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 23 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 95 | 88 | 127 | 122 | 227 | 270 | 169 | 263 | 243 | 109 | 107 | 96 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Shilin Night Market in Taipei is one of the largest and most famous night markets in Taiwan, open to everyone. The market is outdoors but covered, offering countless food and shopping options.
Typical hours
The market typically opens late afternoon (around 5 PM) and closes after midnight (around 1 AM). Evenings are busiest, but it's already lively shortly after opening.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the market and very popular, especially at colorful food stalls. Be careful not to photograph vendors without their permission.
Time needed
Allow about two to three hours for a leisurely stroll with food and shopping. If you want to try many dishes, you can easily spend four hours or more.
Combine with
Combine the market visit with the nearby National Palace Museum or Taipei Fine Arts Museum. Yangmingshan National Park is also not far away.
Getting there
The market is located in Shilin district in Taipei, easily accessible by MRT (Jiantan station, Red Line). Parking is limited, so public transport is recommended.
Insider tip
Arrive early (around 5:30 PM) to avoid the biggest crowds and secure the best food spots. Try local specialties like oyster omelet, stinky tofu, and bubble tea.
Geography
Facts
- Over 500 stalls and restaurants.
- Originated in the 1910s.
- Daily visitors: over 50,000, up to 100,000 on weekends.
- Provides over 5,000 jobs.
- Open daily 4 PM to midnight.
- Famous for fried chicken steak and oyster omelette.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Shilin Night Market (17)
Fuzhong Park🌳 park
Fuzhong Park gives a shaded green oasis amidst the urban streets, complete with paved walkways and children's play equipment.
🌐 parks.taipei🕒 24/7
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes Shilin Night Market special?
The huge variety of delicious street food.
When does the market open?
Usually from late afternoon.
Is it safe to visit?
Yes, it is a very busy and safe place.
Are there also souvenirs?
Yes, besides food, there are many small shops.
How to get to the market?
The Jiantan MRT station is right next to it.
Shilin Night Market: where is it located?
Shilin Night Market is located in Taiwan.
Shilin Night Market: what is there to see?
Highlights include National Taiwan Science Education Center, Taipei Astronomical Museum, Taipei Performing Arts Center.
Shilin Night Market: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Shilin Night Market: why is it worth visiting?
Shilin Night Market in Taipei's Shilin district is one of Taiwan's largest and most iconic night markets.
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History & landmarks
National Palace Museum
A world-renowned museum housing one of the largest collections of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks.
Yangmingshan National Park
A volcanic national park right outside Taipei, known for its hot springs, fumaroles, and cherry blossoms blooming in spring.
Taipei 101
An iconic skyscraper that was once the tallest building in the world, featuring a distinctive pagoda-inspired design.
Raohe Street Night Market
One of the oldest night markets in Taipei, known for its traditional dishes and the imposing gate at its entrance.
Elephant Mountain
A steep hill near the center of Taipei, offering one of the best views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline.
Maokong Gondola
A cable car system in Taipei that takes visitors up to the tea-growing areas of Maokong, home to many traditional teahouses.
More places
National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine
A shrine built to honor the fallen soldiers of the Republic of China during various historical conflicts.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
A prominent monument in Taipei erected in memory of former President Chiang Kai-shek.
Daan Forest Park
A large green oasis in the heart of Taipei providing recreation for city dwellers.
Mengjia Longshan Temple
One of the oldest and most significant temples in Taipei, built in 1738 by immigrants from Fujian.
Yangmingshan National Park
Yangmingshan National Park near Taipei is known for its hot springs and volcanic fumaroles.
Qixing Mountain
Qixing Mountain is the highest dormant volcano in Taiwan and the centerpiece of Yangmingshan National Park.
Qixingshan
A dormant volcano and the highest mountain in the Taipei metropolitan area.
Guandu Nature Park
An important wetland in Taipei that serves as a resting place for many migratory birds.