Shilin Night Market

Introducing Shilin Night Market

Shilin Night Market is located opposite Cicheng Temple in Taipei City, with Jiantan MRT Station nearby. Covered with iron sheets, it is the most famous and most accessible night market in Taipei. The night market can be divided into two parts: one is the market snacks opposite Cicheng Temple; the other is centered on Yangming Theater, including the area surrounded by Anping Street, Dadong Road, and Wenlin Road.

The market offers a wide variety of snacks from all over the country, from steaks and teppanyaki to oyster omelets, Cantonese porridge, and stir-fried squid. Every night, the crowds visiting the night market always fill the narrow passages.

At Shilin Night Market, you can taste delicious snacks from all over the country, such as oyster noodles, tempura, oyster omelets, steamed and fried meatballs, pearl milk tea, Cantonese porridge, Japanese sushi, Korean kimchi pot, etc. In addition, there are fried chicken fillets, pan-fried buns, salted chicken, scallion pancakes, cold noodles, large sausages, large pancakes wrapped in small pancakes, oyster omelets, squid soup, tempura, steak, potatoes, pancakes, stewed pork ribs with medicinal herbs, potato chips, frog eggs, lemon agar-agar, bubble ice, etc.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Attraction opening hours

Shilin Market B1 Food Court: Monday to Thursday 15:00-1 :00 the next day , Friday to Sunday 11:30-2 :00 the next day

The tourist night market mobile stalls are open every day from 16:00 to late at night

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Most Popular FAQs for Shilin Night Market

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shilin Night Market is one of the largest and most famous night markets in Taipei. It has become an iconic destination for both locals and tourists looking to experience Taiwan’s vibrant street food culture, shopping, and entertainment.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shilin Night Market is located in the Shilin District of Taipei. It is easily accessible by the Taipei MRT, with the Jiantan Station (Red Line) just a short walk from the market. Buses and taxis are also convenient options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The night market is open daily from around 5:00 PM until midnight, with peak crowds arriving after 7:00 PM. The best time to visit is between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM to avoid the late-night rush.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Shilin Night Market. You only pay for the food, games, and merchandise you purchase.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is necessary to visit Shilin Night Market. It is a free-entry attraction, and you can walk in at any time during operating hours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes approximately 1-2 hours to fully explore the market, depending on how much time you spend eating, shopping, and enjoying the entertainment.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The food court area, where you can try a variety of local snacks like bubble tea, Taiwanese sausages, and oyster omelets.
• The clothing and accessory stalls, offering trendy and affordable items.
• The game booths where you can try your hand at traditional carnival games.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are not typically available at Shilin Night Market, but local guides or informal tours may be arranged through hotel concierges or private services. The market is easy to navigate independently, with signage in both Mandarin and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Take photos of the lively market stalls, especially when they’re lit up at night.
• The food stalls offer great opportunities to capture colorful and delicious-looking dishes.
• The overall atmosphere of the crowded market is ideal for street photography, especially during peak hours.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by walking through the main food street, sampling snacks along the way.
• Explore the game booths and try your luck at winning prizes.
• Finish by browsing the clothing and accessory stalls for souvenirs.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Shilin Night Market is primarily a night-time attraction, open in the evening and offering a lively atmosphere. There are no formal light shows or special tours, but the vibrant market itself is the main attraction at night.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The market is typically very crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially early in the evening before 7:00 PM.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public restrooms are available throughout the market.
• Numerous food stalls offer a variety of snacks and drinks.
• There are plenty of shops for clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The market is accessible for children and elderly visitors, though it can get crowded. There are no specific facilities for disabled visitors, but the area is relatively flat, and access is possible with some assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is widely accepted, mobile payments (like Apple Pay and Google Pay) and credit cards are also accepted at many stalls. It’s advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and food stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Within the market itself, you'll find plenty of food stalls offering Taiwanese street food.
• Nearby, you can find restaurants serving traditional Taiwanese cuisine and international options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at some food stalls. Halal food options can be found in certain nearby restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several hotels in the Shilin District, including the Grandee Taipei Hotel and the Taipei Garden Hotel, which are located a short distance from the market.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The National Palace Museum, located nearby, offers a rich cultural experience and is an excellent complementary attraction to a visit to Shilin Night Market.
• Yangmingshan National Park, a bit further out, provides beautiful hiking trails and scenic views, ideal for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are many souvenir shops at the market. Typical items include Taiwanese-themed clothing, accessories, and local snacks like pineapple cakes and bubble tea kits.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• The MRT (Jiantan Station) is a convenient option to continue traveling around Taipei after visiting the market.
• Taxis are also available outside the market for further travel or reaching nearby attractions.