Taipei has a way of turning even casual visitors into devoted shoppers. My husband and I went for the food, but we quickly discovered how enjoyable it is to shop in the city, especially with the kindness of the people you meet at every turn. At the time of writing, one New Taiwan Dollar is roughly equivalent to 0.042 Singapore Dollar, which makes Taipei’s wide range of shopping choices friendly to all budgets. The city is more than a retail destination. It is a lively blend of culture, warmth, and irresistible finds.
One of the most charming ways to experience Taiwan is through its souvenirs and snacks. Pineapple cakes remain the country’s most iconic gift, and visiting specialty bakeries such as Chia Te Bakery or Taipei LeeChi feels like walking into a gallery of beautifully crafted pastries. Their pineapple and winter melon varieties are packaged elegantly, making them perfect to bring home. Tea lovers can enjoy the refined selections at Jing Sheng Yu on Yongkang Street, while Jiufen Old Street offers tea experiences in a setting that feels lifted from the world of Spirited Away. Its lantern-lined alleys and traditional structures create an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and cinematic.
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For anyone who loves characters and collectibles, Taipei feels like one big playground. Donguri Republic at Shin Kong Mitsukoshi in Xinyi brings Studio Ghibli favorites to life with shelves filled with Totoro and other well loved figures. Pokémon Center Taipei adds another layer of excitement with plush toys, trading cards, and exclusive items. The city is also famous for gashapon machines. Ximending alone features more than 500 of them, offering everything from anime figurines to cute and calming collectibles. Shilin Night Market has its own growing collection, while the malls in Xinyi scatter machines across several floors, turning an ordinary shopping trip into a series of small surprises.
Blind box collectors often gravitate toward Ximending, although some resellers charge two or three times the original price. Pop Mart Ximen is a better choice if you want to go straight to the source. The four storey space includes exhibition areas, a VIP lounge, and larger than life displays of Molly and other popular characters. Crowds tend to build during weekends, yet the experience is worth every moment. Nearby, the Wan Nian Building offers an entire structure dedicated to anime lovers. We found shops selling everything from Voltes V and Dragon Ball to Sakamoto Days and Spy x Family. The Taipei Animate Store is also in the area, with its own entrance tucked below street level and a nearby café that adds to the fun.
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Taipei’s markets reveal a different side of the city. Nanmen Market near the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall focuses on traditional ingredients such as dried goods and fresh local produce. The Taipei Expo Farmer’s Market at Yuanshan MRT brightens weekends with honey, tea, fruits, vegetables, and small batch artisanal items. Red House Craft Market in Ximending highlights the creativity of local artists. The prices can be higher compared to other markets, but the atmosphere is enjoyable and supports independent makers.
Beauty and fashion are part of the city’s everyday charm. Pharmacy chains like Watsons and Cosmed carry cosmetics and skincare that suit a wide range of preferences, and Watsons often offers attractive discounts. For affordable fashion, Wufenpu near Raohe Night Market is a reliable stop. Its narrow lanes are filled with shops carrying clothes, sunglasses, accessories, and children’s items. Trendy and mid range boutiques are scattered throughout Ximending, Yongkang, Shida, and Gongguan, while NET provides a local version of GAP style basics. For a premium experience, Taipei 101 offers luxury brands and an observatory that makes the visit feel even more memorable.
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Shopping in Taipei never feels like a simple transaction. It feels like an invitation to explore the city’s creativity, history, and personality through the things you bring home. Whether it is tea from Jiufen, a blind box from Ximending, or a handmade craft from Red House, every purchase becomes part of your travel story.
