Raohe Street Night Market
Build a trip to Taipei
About
Raohe is one of the oldest and most atmospheric night markets in Taipei, defined by the magnificent Ciyou Temple at its eastern entrance. Unlike the sprawling Shilin, Raohe is centered on a single long street, making it easier to navigate while still offering an incredible variety of traditional snacks. The atmosphere is classic and vibrant, lit by thousands of red lanterns and neon signs. The sensory experience is dominated by the smell of wood-fired ovens and sizzling grills. Expert recommendation: The 'Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns' (Hujiao Bing) at the entrance are legendary; look for the long queue. Pro tip: After eating, take a short walk to the nearby Rainbow Bridge to enjoy a quiet view of the Keelung River. This market is highly preferred by locals for its higher concentration of high-quality food stalls.
Highlights
- Iconic Hu Jiao Bing (Black Pepper Buns)
- Ornate Ciyou Temple entrance
- Vibrant traditional market atmosphere
- Street food Michelin recommendations
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Chia Te Bakery
Established in 1975, Chia Te is a multi-award-winning bakery and a household name in Taiwan. Unlike the minimalist SunnyHills, Chia Te offers a vast variety of traditional pastries, with their pineapple and cranberry cakes being the absolute stars. The atmosphere is bustling and industrious, with staff constantly replenishing shelves as tourists and locals buy in bulk. The sensory experience is defined by the sweet, buttery aroma of fresh baking that wafts onto the sidewalk. Expert recommendation: The Cranberry Pineapple Cake is their unique masterpiece, providing a perfect tart balance to the sweet filling. Pro tip: Expect a queue outside the shop at almost any time of day, especially before major holidays. They have an efficient system for packing boxes for international travel. If you want to avoid the main line, many 7-Eleven stores in Taipei carry a limited selection of their cakes.
Ice Monster (Xinyi)
Ice Monster is credited with inventing the 'Mango Shaved Ice' that has become Taiwan’s national dessert. Unlike traditional crushed ice, their 'snow ice' is shaved from flavored blocks, resulting in a creamy, ribbon-like texture. The atmosphere in the Xinyi district branch is modern, bright, and playful. The sensory experience is a refreshing blast of tropical sweetness and the brain-freeze sensation of the ultra-fine ice. Expert recommendation: The 'Mango Sensation,' featuring fresh mango chunks, mango sorbet, and panna cotta, is their signature. Pro tip: Portions are enormous and easily shared by two or three people. It is the perfect refuge during Taipei’s humid summer afternoons. Expect a wait on weekends and during the peak mango season (summer).
Smith & Hsu
Smith & Hsu is a modern tea house that famously bridges the gap between Eastern tea culture and Western afternoon tea traditions. The atmosphere is minimalist, zen-like, and highly sophisticated. The sensory experience begins with a large tray of tea leaves presented in jars for you to smell and choose your preferred blend. Expert recommendation: They are widely considered to have the best scones in Taipei—thick, buttery, and served with clotted cream and jam. Pro tip: This is a perfect 'afternoon escape' from the Xinyi shopping malls. The 'Scone Cream Tea' set is their most popular offering. Reservations are recommended on weekends as it is a favorite for local tea enthusiasts and couples.
Eslite Spectrum Songyan
Housed in a stunning modern building within the Songshan Cultural Park, Eslite Spectrum Songyan is a 'lifestyle department store' that blends high-end retail with traditional craftsmanship. The store features multiple floors dedicated to Taiwanese design brands, DIY workshops (including glassblowing and pottery), and a world-class bookstore. The atmosphere is sophisticated, intellectual, and creative, reflecting Taipei’s modern aesthetic. The sensory experience is one of refined design, the smell of premium tea, and the tactile joy of handmade goods. Expert recommendation: Visit the basement food court for high-quality local fusion cuisine and artisan bakeries. Pro tip: The Eslite cinema here often shows independent and award-winning international films that aren't available in larger theaters. It is one of the best places to buy unique, high-quality 'Made in Taiwan' gifts.
Reviews
Visited this place? Share your experience and help other travelers.