Raohe Night Market: The Best Food and Shopping Experience

Raohe Street Night Market in Taipei is a must-visit for anyone looking for a lively mix of street food, shopping, and local culture. It's known for its authentic feel and wide range of street food options, and it's one of the oldest and most popular night markets in the city, with an abundance of vendors selling all types of Taiwanese goods.

View of Raohe St Night Market in Taipei, Taiwan — *Raohe St Night Market*

Foodies can enjoy iconic dishes like Fuzhou black pepper buns, stinky tofu, and deep-fried chicken cutlets. This article will guide you through the must-try foods, what to buy, key attractions, and tips for making the most of your visit to Raohe Street Night Market.

Welcome to Raohe Street Night Market

Raohe Street Night Market is one of the oldest and most famous night markets in Taipei. Established in the 1980s, it has grown from a humble gathering of local vendors into a vibrant hub of culinary and cultural activity. Officially opened in 1987, Raohe Night Market is now a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world, making it one of the popular night markets.

This is the entrance to Raohe Night Market in Taipei, Taiwan — *The entrance of Raohe Night Market*

Located in the bustling Songshan District, Raohe Night Market stretches for 600 meters along the famous Raohe Street. This extensive market is packed with a diverse range of stalls, offering everything from delicious street food to unique souvenirs and handmade goods.

It’s the second biggest night market in Taipei, with Shilin Night Market being the first. Raohe Street Night Market has a great balance between bustling activity, a variety of stalls, and convenience, making it the best night market for those seeking an authentic local experience.

Raohe Night Market: Most Famous Food Stalls

Raohe Street Night Market is a food lover’s paradise, renowned for its vast array of delicious street food. From savory snacks to delightful desserts, the market offers something for every palate. Some of the most famous food stalls at Raohe Night Market are known for their unique and mouth-watering offerings, making it a must-visit destination on any food tour.

Below are some of the must-try foods you shouldn’t miss at Raohe Night Market. These culinary delights attract both locals and food enthusiasts worldwide. Let's explore the flavors and stories behind these iconic dishes.

Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns

Fuzhou black pepper buns, also known as pork pepper buns, are a must-try snack at Raohe St Night Market. These buns are filled with minced pork, green onions, and a savory black pepper sauce, creating a mouth-watering combination of flavors. The buns are then baked in a traditional clay oven, giving them a crispy exterior and a smoky flavor that is hard to resist.

You’ll find the best Fuzhou black pepper buns near the east entrance of Raohe St Night Market, close to Ciyou Temple. Each bun costs around TWD 60, making it an affordable and delicious treat. These buns are a favorite amongst visitors in Raohe Street Night Market, and many go there especially to try the buns.

The unique cooking process and the blend of spices make these buns a market standout. Fuzhou black pepper buns will likely leave a lasting impression, whether you’re a fan of Taiwanese cuisine or trying it for the first time.

Stinky Tofu

Stinky tofu is a dish that divides opinions but is a must-try for adventurous eaters. Known for its strong aroma, stinky tofu is a Taiwanese delicacy that packs a punch in terms of flavor. The tofu is fermented, usually over the space of months, and then deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior.

One of the best places to try stinky tofu at Raohe Night Market is the Boss Shi Stinky Tofu stall. Here, you can enjoy spicy stinky tofu that is both delicious and memorable. Despite its pungent smell, many visitors find the taste to be surprisingly delightful and worth the try.

If you're feeling brave, give stinky tofu a try; while it's not for everyone, you might be one of the few that really love this dish. This unique dish adds to the culinary adventure of Raohe Night Market, and it might just win you over.

Deep-Fried Chicken Cutlets

Deep-fried chicken cutlets, or Ji-Pai, are another must-try at Raohe Night Market. These massive chicken breasts are flattened, coated in batter, and deep-fried to perfection. The result is a crispy, golden exterior with a juicy and tender interior that is simply irresistible.

Taiwanese Fried Chicken at a night market stall — *AaronChenPS2/shutterstock.com*

What distinguishes these chicken cutlets is the generous sprinkle of chili powder, adding a spicy kick to the flavor profile. This combination of crispy coating and spicy seasoning makes them a favorite among visitors. You can opt out of the spicy seasoning if it's not your thing; however, it does add that extra flavor, which, in my opinion, makes the deep-fried chicken that much better.

Whether you’re a fan of deep-fried foods or seeking a satisfying snack, the deep-fried chicken cutlets at Raohe Night Market will hit the spot. Some chicken cutlet stalls also sell other deep-fried foods such as mushrooms or French fries. Overall, the deep-fried foods at Raohe Street Night Market tend to be delicious, so don’t miss out on this tasty treat during your visit.

More Snacks and Dishes

Of course Raohe Street Night Market has a wide variety of stalls, and if the three foods above don’t sound appetizing, then don’t worry; there are plenty of other snacks and dishes to choose from. You can find stalls selling dumplings, chicken or beef skewers, grilled beef, wheel cakes, bubble tea, pancakes, French fries, and many other kinds of foods and snacks.

A recommended dish that locals tend to eat often is the braised pork rice. It features tender and flavorful minced pork topped with pickled vegetables on steamed white rice. This dish is usually quite small but tasty, so you'll still have plenty of room for the other dishes and snacks around the market if you give it a try.

Raohe Street Night Market is one of the easiest places in Taipei to eat; there is so much variety, and most of the food is generally very tasty and cheap. Vegetarian options are also available at Raohe Night Market, so there is something for everyone.

Shopping at Raohe Night Market

Shopping for souvenirs is a delightful way to take a break from the culinary adventures at Raohe Night Market. The perimeter of Raohe Street is lined with numerous stores, predominantly selling textile goods and small souvenirs. These stores offer a diverse range of clothing and bag options, from traditional Taiwanese attire to the latest fashion trends.

Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or stylish additions to your wardrobe, you’ll find plenty of treasures here.

Some popular items to look for include:

Traditional Taiwanese Clothing: Discover beautifully crafted cheongsam dresses and hanfu shirts that reflect Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage.
Handmade Bags: Explore a variety of handmade bags, including woven baskets and intricately embroidered tote bags, perfect for a unique souvenir.
Scarves and Shawls: Find scarves and shawls made from traditional Taiwanese fabrics, offering both style and comfort.
Modern Fashion Trends: Stay on-trend with streetwear and indie clothing that showcase the latest in modern fashion.
Stationery Shops: These shops sell items such as pens, notepads, diaries, and other stationery items. They are great for students or office workers looking to pick up some cool stationery. The prices at these stores are usually quite cheap too.
Handicrafts: Handicrafts are also popular at Raohe Night Market. There are a variety of stalls and shops selling handmade items, these are usually culturally related to Taiwan.
Tea: Taiwanese tea is delicious, and just like in many other areas in Taiwan, you can find stalls and stores selling loose-leaf tea. While you may not find the absolute best tea in Taiwan at Raohe Night Market, you could likely still pick up some nice tea at a reasonable price.

Tips for Shopping:

Be Prepared to Haggle: Prices may be negotiable depending on the vendor or shop, so don’t hesitate to bargain for a better deal.
Seek Unique Items: Look for one-of-a-kind and handmade items that you won’t find elsewhere.
Try On Clothes: Don’t be shy about trying on clothes and asking for recommendations from the store owners. They often have great insights into the best pieces.

Exploring the shopping options at Raohe Night Market adds another layer of excitement to your visit, offering a chance to take home a piece of Taiwanese culture and fashion.

Play the Claw Machines and Carnival Games

Taking a break from eating and shopping to play the claw machines and carnival games at Raohe Night Market is a fun and entertaining way to enhance your visit. The market is dotted with a variety of carnival games and claw machines, each offering a range of prizes and challenges. Whether you’re aiming to win a stuffed animal or just enjoy the thrill of the game, there’s something for everyone.

Some popular games and machines include:

Claw Machines: Test your skills with claw machines filled with a variety of prizes, from adorable stuffed animals to quirky toys.
Balloon Darts and Ring Toss: Classic carnival games like balloon darts and ring toss offer a nostalgic and enjoyable experience.
Shooting Galleries and Arcade Games: Try your hand at shooting galleries and arcade games, perfect for a bit of friendly competition.
Fortune-Telling Machines and Astrology Games: For a unique twist, explore fortune-telling machines and astrology games that add a mystical element to your night.

Tips for Playing:

Be Prepared to Spend Some Money: Games and machines often require tokens or coins, so have some change ready.
Look for Unique Prizes: Seek out games and machines with prizes that stand out or offer a unique challenge.
Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance from the game operators, especially if you’re new to the games.

Playing the claw machines and carnival games at Raohe Night Market is a fantastic way to break up your evening, providing a mix of fun, excitement, and the chance to win some memorable prizes.

Exploring Beyond Food: Nearby Attractions

While Raohe Night Market is famous for its street food, there are also plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy beyond the culinary delights. Adjacent to the market is the Songshan Ciyou Temple, a cultural gem and Buddhist temple that makes Raohe Night Market an interesting place for history buffs. The temple’s traditional Chinese architecture and intricate carvings make it a must-visit.

Another nearby attraction is the Rainbow Bridge, which offers scenic views and is a popular place for evening walks. The bridge’s vibrant illumination at night provides a picturesque backdrop, perfect for photography and leisurely strolls.

Exploring these attractions combines the night market’s excitement with cultural and scenic highlights. Here’s a deeper look into these major attractions.

Ciyou Temple

Ciyou Temple, located in the Songshan District, is a significant cultural landmark built in 1753. The temple showcases the rich religious architecture of Taiwan, with elaborately decorated roof ridges adorned with dragon motifs symbolizing protection. Its intricate architecture and vibrant colors provide a serene and inspiring ambiance for visitors.

Visiting Ciyou Temple complements the culinary adventure at Raohe St Night Market with a rich cultural experience. The temple is situated near the market’s east entrance, making it easy to combine a visit to both attractions. As you explore the temple, you’ll appreciate the detailed carvings and traditional Chinese motifs that make it a visual delight.

Soak in the peaceful atmosphere and reflect on the temple’s rich history. It’s a perfect spot to rest and recharge before diving back into the bustling night market.

Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge is another highlight near Raohe Night Market, offering a picturesque view that is popular for evening photography and leisurely walks. The bridge is illuminated in various colors at night, creating a stunning visual effect that attracts many visitors.

Frequented by couples and photographers, the Rainbow Bridge provides a romantic and scenic backdrop. Its location near the market makes it a convenient spot to visit before or after exploring the food stalls. The combination of the bridge’s vibrant lights and the serene waters below creates a magical atmosphere.

It's also a great place to bring food from Raohe Street Night Market and have a picnic near the bridge along the riverside. You can see plenty of locals and tourists doing this, as there are very few places to sit down and eat in Raohe Night Market.

Whether capturing beautiful photos, enjoying a peaceful walk, or having a riverside picnic, the Rainbow Bridge is a must-see that adds to the market’s experience.

Tips for Enjoying Raohe St Night Market

Here are some practical tips to make the most of your visit to Raohe Street Night Market. Visiting between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM allows you to experience the market with fewer crowds and see all the stalls open. Avoiding weekends, particularly on Friday and Saturday, is usually a good idea. This is because of high foot traffic; it will make the market experience much slower as queues will gather around stalls.

Eating in front of a street food stall vendor is discouraged due to the crowds. Instead, find alternative spots like claw machine parlors or the LOVE sign near the Rainbow Bridge and riverside area to enjoy your food. These spots provide a relaxed environment to savor your culinary finds without feeling rushed.

Bring cash, as most stalls do not accept credit cards. Prepare for a sensory overload; the sights, sounds, and smells of Raohe Night Market are overwhelming but part of the unique and incredible experience. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy one of the best night markets in Taipei.

Getting There and Navigating

Reaching Raohe Night Market is a breeze thanks to Taipei’s efficient public transportation system. The best way to get there is by taking the MRT Green Line to Songshan Station. Once you arrive at Songshan Station, it’s just a short one-minute walk to the market, making it incredibly convenient for visitors.

For those who prefer other modes of transport, cabs and local buses also provide easy access to Raohe St Night Market. Regardless of how you arrive, you’ll find yourself at the entrance of a bustling street filled with food stalls and vibrant energy. Most people stick to the right side lane when navigating the market, which helps manage the flow of foot traffic and makes it easier to explore all the offerings.

Visiting during off-peak hours allows for a more relaxed experience without overwhelming crowds. A bit of planning can make navigating Raohe Night Market as enjoyable as its culinary delights.

Summary

To sum up, Raohe Street Night Market is a culinary and cultural treasure in the heart of Taipei. From must-try foods like Fuzhou black pepper buns, stinky tofu, and deep-fried chicken cutlets to cultural attractions such as Ciyou Temple and Rainbow Bridge, the market offers a rich and diverse experience for all visitors.

Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a curious traveler, or a shopaholic, Raohe Night Market has something to offer. Its vibrant atmosphere, delicious street food, and fascinating attractions make it a must-visit destination in Taipei. By following our tips, you can navigate the market with ease and make the most of your visit.

Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure. Raohe Street Night Market awaits you with open arms and countless delights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Raohe St Night Market?

The best time to visit Raohe St Night Market is between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM for a more enjoyable experience without the peak crowds. That way, you can explore all the stalls with ease!

How can I get to Raohe St Night Market?

You can easily get to Raohe St Night Market by taking the MRT Green Line to Songshan Station, which is only a minute’s walk away. Enjoy the market!

What are some must-try foods at Raohe St Night Market?

You definitely shouldn't miss the Fuzhou black pepper buns, stinky tofu, and deep-fried chicken cutlets at Raohe St Night Market! These treats are delicious and truly capture the essence of the night market experience.

Are there any attractions near Raohe St Night Market?

Absolutely! Ciyou Temple and the Rainbow Bridge are just a stone's throw away and provide rich cultural and scenic experiences to enhance your visit.

Is Raohe St Night Market very crowded?

Absolutely, Raohe St Night Market can get quite crowded, particularly on weekends. To dodge the crowds, try visiting on a weekday or go early in the evening.