Dihua Market

The several blocks that make up the Dihua market are Taipei's best-preserved examples of historic architecture. Building styles range from Fujianese to Baroque to modernist. The area is sometimes called 'Grocery Street', and for most of the year it's thought of as a good place for buying traditional Chinese medicines and herbs, bolts of cloth and sundries.

If you're lucky enough to be in Taipei for the weeks leading up to the Lunar New Year celebrations, Dihua market's true colours shine, as the area is considered Taipei's best for traditional New Year foods, party supplies and gifts of all kinds. During these weeks, a festive spirit of bonhomie descends on the market, manifesting itself in a veritable orgy of giving as merchants offer samples of their edible wares to all passers-by. Should you come during this period, be prepared to be fed.