Ximending District

Taipei

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Ximending District

Perhaps the hippest neighbourhood in Taipei, Ximending (or Shi-men Ting) is a pedestrian-only area that truly comes to life after sundown. Loud music plays and bright shopfront lights flicker, enticing local youths and tourists with their offerings, some beyond wacky: maid cafes, knife massage, curious bubble tea concoctions, KTV booths, and more – all this along with a few very well preserved historic buildings, such as the Red House. It's a great place to experience the dynamic, young side to Taipei.

Shopping

Taipei is a shopping extravaganza that caters to every budget. For those who are looking for an authentic Taipei shopping experience and like a bargain, the night markets are the places to head for. At Shi lin (Jiantan MRT) you can find everything from clothes to traditional regional foods. Stop for a bite to eat at one of the roadside food vendors, whose specialities include oyster omelettes. Looking for souvenirs? Then try the Chinese handicraft market (1 Syujhou Road), or Lin-Tien Bucket Shop, the only handmade wooden bucket shop in Taipei (108 Zhongshan N. Rd), or visit the Zau Ho Market where you will find the Shandong Hsiaomo Sesame Oil Shop, which has been trading for nearly 150 years and sells all manner of cooking oils. If it’s a more up-market shopping experience you’re looking for then head towards (Taipei City Station MRT) and the Living Mall (Core Pacific City). These stock the usual brand name goods.