Why Taiwan is a Foodie Paradise: Must-Visit Spots Every Tourist Needs to Try

ABBEY: 

7-Eleven

If there’s one place that defines convenience in Taiwan, it’s 7-Eleven. We found ourselves making multiple trips, whether for quick snacks or unique finds like the limited-edition mojito in a tetra pack.

One highlight was reuniting with a Coke Slurpee at a branch in Yilan. It felt nostalgic in the best way.

Whether you’re grabbing food to go or dining in, 7-Eleven offers a wide variety of options. The dine-in areas are clean and well-maintained, with tissues and wipes available so you can tidy up after eating. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference for the next customer.

Starbucks Reserve Dream Plaza Taipei

We visited the Starbucks Reserve Dream Plaza, and it’s easily one of the most impressive Starbucks branches we’ve seen.

The space is massive, with dedicated sections for coffee and tea. They even serve cocktails. Yes, I had an Espresso Martini at 9 AM, no regrets.

Seating is abundant, so it’s easy to find a cozy spot. It’s a great place to people-watch, unwind, or simply pass time with your favorite drink. We paired ours with a pork tenderloin frittata sandwich, and every bite was satisfying. The meat was tender and packed with flavor.

Taipei Night Markets

Choosing which night market to visit in Taipei can feel overwhelming, so we kept it simple and went to those near our location.

Our Jiufen–Shifen tour ended at Raohe Night Market. It was packed from the entrance, with long queues for the famous pork black pepper buns. Of course, we joined in. The buns were freshly made and worth the wait.

We also went hunting for XXL fried chicken and found one of Taiwan’s iconic oversized cutlets. Juicy, crispy, and incredibly satisfying. We ended up enjoying it back at the hotel since it was already late.

Next stop was Ximending. Here, we had one of the best beef noodle soups at Lao Shan Dong. The hot broth was perfect for the chilly weather. We also tried fried chicken from Shi Yun, along with fish cakes, string beans, and tofu.

And of course, the famous crispy milk donuts. Expect a queue, but they’re worth it. The area is vibrant, filled with neon lights, music, and a youthful energy that makes it fun to explore.

At Shilin Night Market, the crowd was more manageable. We tried barbecue chicken and the well-known Hot Star Large Fried Chicken, each with its own distinct flavor. The best part? We found crispy milk donuts with no queue.

Taipei’s night markets are a full sensory experience. Bright lights, loud sounds, and incredible food all come together to create something unforgettable.

Simple Kaffa Sola at Taipei 101

What’s it like dining at the top of Taipei 101? We found out at Simple Kaffa Sola, the highest café in Taiwan.

We walked in without a reservation and were seated within minutes. I tried their 10th Anniversary Coffee, and the staff recommended sipping from different sides of the cup to experience the varying flavor notes. It actually works, although the taste becomes more consistent as the coffee cools.

We paired it with Zhou Zhou, a honey castella cake that complemented the coffee perfectly.

Emperor Palace Hot Pot Buffet

For our final lunch before leaving Taiwan, we went all out at Emperor Palace Hot Pot.

The ambiance feels like a traditional Chinese palace, with dim lighting and wooden interiors. We chose spicy pork soup and chicken soup as our bases, then loaded up on Angus beef slices, dumplings, vegetables, and more.

The drink selection is extensive, ranging from soft drinks to alcoholic options, so there’s something for everyone. For dessert, I indulged in Swiss chocolate ice cream from Mövenpick and a refreshing fruit slushie served in a beautifully designed silver pitcher.

We definitely left full and satisfied.

Crispy Milk Donuts

No trip to Taipei is complete without trying crispy milk donuts. Yes, they’re indulgent, but absolutely worth it.

Each bite starts with a sweet, milky powder coating. The outside is crispy, while the inside is soft and almost melts in your mouth. Whether you eat them hot or cold, they’re delicious.

One piece is never enough. If the queue in Ximending is too long, check other branches around the city. You might get lucky like we did.

    

Why Taiwan is a Foodie Paradise: Must-Visit Spots Every Tourist Needs to Try

WILL: Taiwan is much more than just a quick stopover; it’s a vibrant intersection of Japanese precision and Chinese tradition. For Western travelers looking for high-quality "foodie" experiences without the gourmet price tag. Based on our recent trip, here are the four places that truly defined the "Taiwanese taste" for me.

1. Starbucks Dream Plaza: Coffee with a Twist
You might think you know Starbucks, but the Dream Plaza Reserve in Taipei is a different breed. While you can get your standard latte, this location specializes in:

• Exclusive Alcoholic Infusions: Coffee-based cocktails that are perfect for a sophisticated afternoon break.

• Elevated Dining: Their sandwiches are massive—far beyond the standard "grab-and-go" fare.

Travel Tip: Go here for the architecture and the exclusive "Reserve" menu you won't find back home.

2. Emperor Palace Hot Pot: The Luxury Buffet
Hot pot is a staple in Asia, but Emperor Palace takes it to a level of indulgence that Western tourists will love. Forget standard soft-serve; this is a full-scale luxury experience.

• The Highlights: Unlimited Häagen-Dazs and Mövenpick ice cream.

• The Game Changer: Unlike most buffets, they offer unlimited wine and cocktails.

3. Raohe Night Market: The Michelin-Level Street Food
While Shilin is famous, Raohe Night Market is where the locals (and savvy tourists) go for the best flavor-to-queue ratio.

• Pork Black Pepper Buns (Fuzhou Ancestor): Watch them bake these in traditional clay ovens. The smoky, peppery crunch is unforgettable.

• Stall 95 (XXL Chicken): A staple of Taiwanese street food.

Our Regret: I only bought one of each. Trust me—get two. You’ll crave them the moment you leave. 

4. Crispy Milk Donuts: Don’t Believe the "Fad" Hype
In a world of overhyped Instagram trends, the Crispy Milk Donut is the real deal. It’s not just a donut; it’s a texture experience—crunchy on the outside, airy and milky on the inside.

There is a long queue for a reason. It is the perfect walking snack while exploring the streets of Taipei.

Ultimately, Taiwan is a masterclass in culinary fusion. It honors its heritage while constantly pushing the boundaries of what 'street food' can be. 

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Panoramic view of Shifen Waterfall in Taiwan, the most impressive natural attraction in New Taipei City.

  

Yellow historic Bong Bong Train traveling through the misty mountain forests of Taipingshan National Forest.

   

Breathtaking 4 AM sunrise view from the Alishan National Scenic Area observation deck in winter.

 

Restored vintage trains and diesel-electric locomotives at the National Railway Museum Taiwan.

Our Taiwan Itinerary: Shifen, Jiufen, Taipingshan & Alishan (Best Things to Do in Taiwan)

GetYourGuide Tour: Shifen and Jiufen Day Trip
One of the easiest ways to explore northern Taiwan is by booking a guided tour through GetYourGuide. We simply hopped on the bus and let our guide take care of everything, which made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Our first stop was the stunning Shifen Waterfall. The power of the cascading water, combined with the mist and roaring sound, made it a truly breathtaking natural attraction. It is easily one of the most impressive waterfalls in Taiwan.

Next, we visited Shifen Old Street, where we experienced the famous sky lantern tradition. Writing our wishes and watching the lantern float into the sky felt both meaningful and memorable. The staff also doubled as photographers, helping us capture great photos during the launch.
For snacks, we tried the popular stuffed chicken wing. It is a unique street food where savory rice is packed inside a grilled chicken wing. It was filling enough to keep us going through the afternoon. We also grabbed some ice cream while strolling along the street.

By evening, we arrived at Jiufen Old Street. This mountain town is known for its nostalgic charm and is often linked to the anime Spirited Away due to its lantern-lit tea house. As expected, the place was packed with tourists.

Instead of staying in the crowd for long, we found a local spot to enjoy a comforting bowl of beef noodles. The beef was tender with just the right amount of fat, and the noodles were firm, served in a rich and savory broth. It was perfect for the chilly evening weather.
Our final stop was Raohe Night Market. Right at the entrance, we tried the famous black pepper pork bun, freshly baked and full of flavor. As we explored further, we discovered our first XXL fried chicken in Taiwan. Crispy, well-seasoned, and truly massive, it was the perfect way to end the night.

Taipingshan Day Tour from KKDay
We joined another guided trip, this time booking a Taipingshan Day Tour through KKDay. We met our guide at Yilan Station early in the morning and traveled in a comfortable 7-seater vehicle.

Although we were informed the night before that an English-speaking guide was unavailable, our Chinese-speaking guide made a genuine effort to communicate with us throughout the trip.

We paid separately for entrance to Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area, and it was absolutely worth it.
Our first stop was the Jianqing Historic Trail, an 800-meter trail offering scenic mountain views and remnants of an old railway line. It was a gentle hike with rewarding views.

We also experienced the Bong Bong Train, a historic timber transport railway that runs along a cliffside route. It added a unique and nostalgic touch to the journey.
Another highlight was hiking the Maosing Reminiscent Trail. Surrounded by towering trees and fresh mountain air, it was both refreshing and peaceful.

We then headed to Jiuzhize Hot Springs, where we tried boiling corn as a snack. Visitors can also boil eggs, and within minutes they are ready to eat. It was a simple but fun experience, especially while exploring the area and crossing the hanging bridge.
Before ending the tour, we stopped for Aiyu jelly, a natural plant-based dessert that reminded me of gulaman from the Philippines. Light and refreshing, it was a perfect way to wrap up the day.
This full-day tour was far from tiring. Instead, it left us amazed by the natural beauty of Taipingshan.

Alishan Hiking and Sunrise Experience
Our trip to Alishan National Scenic Area was one of the highlights of our Taiwan itinerary. Our hotel package included tickets for the famous sunrise train, so we woke up at 4 AM to catch it.
It was a cold January morning, from the train ride to the viewing platform, but everything felt worth it. Watching the sunrise slowly appear from behind the mountains was a quiet and powerful moment. It gives you a sense of hope and reminds you to be grateful for a new day.
After breakfast, we explored several key attractions including the Three-Generation Trees, Alishan Museum, Alishan Shouzhen Temple, and the Sister Ponds.

Walking among the giant trees was a humbling experience. Their size and presence are truly majestic, and being surrounded by them made the hike both calming and memorable.


Taipei 101 Visit
A trip to Taipei would not be complete without visiting Taipei 101. We purchased our tickets and headed up, but not before stopping at the highest café in the building for coffee.
The observation deck offers incredible panoramic views of Taipei. One of the most interesting features is the massive golden damper inside the building. This engineering marvel helps stabilize the tower during strong winds and earthquakes. There is even a video exhibit showing how it moves during seismic activity.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Taipei 101 offers Skyline 460, which allows visitors to walk on an open-air platform. Personally, I was happy enjoying the view safely from inside the 88th floor.

National Railway Museum Taiwan
As train enthusiasts, visiting the National Railway Museum Taiwan was a must. Taiwan’s railway system is known for its efficiency, similar to what we experienced in countries like Switzerland, Japan, and the UK.
One of the highlights is the Diesel-Electric Locomotive Workshop, displayed in the restored Taipei Railway Workshop. It feels like stepping into a real maintenance facility.
The museum offers an immersive experience with lighting effects and audio-visual displays. A standout feature is the simulation of a train undergoing a scan, where you can see its internal components as if it were an X-ray. It showcases how far Taiwan’s railway technology has come.

Massage Experience in Zhongshan
After days of walking and exploring, we treated ourselves to a massage at Bu Lao Song Massage.

I’ll admit, at first glance, the place gave off a modest, almost low-key vibe. The area around Xinsheng in Zhongshan District reminded me of Avenida in Manila, with its dim lighting and quieter streets. It made me wonder what to expect.

But everything changed the moment we stepped inside. The place was fully packed, which immediately told us that people trust and keep coming back for their service.

Before the massage, our tired feet were soaked in a warm herbal broth, setting the tone for relaxation. The full body and foot massage that followed was both refreshing and rejuvenating. It was the kind of pressure that feels intense in the best way possible. I even found myself drifting off a few times.

By the end of the session, we felt completely recharged. It was the perfect way to recover after days of exploring Taipei.

KKDay app product page for the Taipingshan National Forest Day Tour featuring small group 7-seater vehicle options.

GetYourGuide app interface showing a confirmed booking for the Shifen and Jiufen day tour from Taipei.

We all love a good deal—and let’s be real, Klook has been the “OG giant” sitting comfortably in our travel apps for years. But ever felt like you’re just another booking in a sea of thousands? Sometimes, you just want something a little more you, not a cookie-cutter itinerary.
Well, here’s the tea — GetYourGuide and KKDay are seriously stepping up the game, and they might just become your new travel besties.

GetYourGuide: Effortless Adventures Done Right
For Taiwan’s iconic Shifen & Jiufen route, I ditched the DIY stress and went with GetYourGuide—and WOW, zero regrets. From the moment we hopped on the bus, everything was handled like clockwork. No confusing train transfers, no guessing games.

The best part? We wrapped up the day at Raohe Night Market, feasting on that legendary XXL Chicken (yes, Stall 95… trust me on this 😋).

Why you need to book at GetYourGuide: Smooth, stress-free, and perfect for ticking off those must-see spots without breaking a sweat.

KKDay: Cozy, Curated, and a Little Bit Fancy
Then came my KKDay experience—completely different vibe, in the best way possible. Think: small group, comfy 7-seater ride, and a journey up to Taipingshan that felt more like a road trip with friends than a tour.

We met bright and early at Yilan Station, and from there, it was all misty mountains, fresh air, and pure serenity.

Why you need to book at KKDay: If you love nature and prefer something more personal and less “tour bus energy,” KKDay absolutely delivers.

Pro Tip: Mix & Match for the Win. 
Here’s the real hack—don’t limit yourself to just one platform. I used GetYourGuide for the iconic, bucket-list spots and KKDay for those deeper, more immersive adventures.

The result? The perfect Taiwan trip—zero stress, all vibes 🙌
Ready to plan your own adventure?

 
Go ahead and check out GetYourGuide and KKDay for the latest deals, exclusive tours, and those sweet skip-the-line perks. Your future self will thank you 😉

 

Panoramic view of Shifen Waterfall in Taiwan, the most impressive natural attraction in New Taipei City.

  

Yellow historic Bong Bong Train traveling through the misty mountain forests of Taipingshan National Forest.

   

Breathtaking 4 AM sunrise view from the Alishan National Scenic Area observation deck in winter.

 

Restored vintage trains and diesel-electric locomotives at the National Railway Museum Taiwan.

Don’t Get Fined! 3 Taiwan Laws Every Tourist Needs to Know

Taiwan Taipei MRT station rules no food or drink sign for tourists

Planning your dream escape to the "Heart of Asia"? From the neon-lit streets of Taipei to the misty peaks of Alishan, Taiwan is legendary for being safe, clean, and incredibly welcoming.

But here’s the thing: Taiwan takes its rules seriously. What might be a "minor oopsie" in Europe or US and even other Asian Countries could land you a hefty fine in Taipei. To keep your holiday stress-free (and your wallet full), here are the most common laws tourists accidentally break—and how to stay on the sunny side of the law! 

1. The "Golden Rule" of the MRT: No Snacking!
Taipei’s MRT is one of the cleanest metro systems in the world, and they keep it that way with strict enforcement. The moment you cross that yellow line into the paid area, your snacks must stay in your bag.  

•The Trap: This includes chewing gum, water, and even betel nuts.

•The Law: Mass Rapid Transit Act, Article 50.

•Penalty: NT1,500 – NT7,500 (€45 – €220 approx).

Pro Tip: Finish your espresso or bubble tea before you tap your EasyCard. Even a quick sip of water can technically get you flagged!

2. No "Creative" Street Crossing (Jaywalking)
In many cities, if the road is empty, you cross. In Taiwan? Not so fast. Traffic police and "tech-policing" cameras are everywhere.

•The Trap: Crossing the street outside of a designated zebra crossing or ignoring a red "Don’t Walk" man.

•The Law: Act Governing Road Traffic Violations, Article 78.

•Penalty: NT$500 fine (€15 approx) and a potential lecture on road safety

Pro Tip: Always wait for the green light, even if the street looks deserted. It’s safer and cheaper!

3. Beware of "Freelance" Tours on Social Media
Found a "hidden gem" tour on Instagram or a local "friend" offering a paid guided hike? Be careful. Taiwan requires all tour guides and operators to be strictly licensed.

•The Trap: Joining an unlicensed tour or acting as a paid guide for others without a permit.

•The Law: Act for the Development of Tourism, Article 59.

•Penalty: A massive NT30,000 to NT1.5 Million (€900 – €44,000+).

Pro Tip: Only book through reputable platforms (like KKDAY or GetYourGuide) or licensed travel agencies. If a "guide" asks you to pretend you're just "friends" if the police ask—run!

Taiwan is a paradise for travelers who love culture, food, and safety. By respecting these local laws, you’re not just avoiding fines—you’re showing respect to the beautiful culture that makes Taiwan so special.

Ready to explore? Make sure you’ve filled out your Online Arrival Card (TWAC) within 72 hours of landing to breeze through immigration!

Are you heading to Taiwan soon? Which of these laws surprised you the most? 

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRAVEL HERE!!!

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.

GetYourGuide: Don't just visit your destination — experience it. Book your activities with GetYourGuide!