One of the biggest questions I received after my Jeju self-drive trip was whether it’s better to rent an electric vehicle (EV) or a petrol car. Having experienced driving around Jeju myself, I can honestly say that both have their own advantages. It really depends on your travel style.
Jeju is one of the easiest places in South Korea to drive. The roads are wide, traffic is relatively light outside the city areas, and attractions are spread across the island, making a rental car the most convenient way to explore.
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Why Many Travellers Choose an EV
Jeju has one of the highest numbers of EV charging stations in Korea, so finding a charger is generally not difficult. Charging costs are also significantly lower than refuelling a petrol car, making it an attractive option for travellers looking to save on transport costs.
If you’re planning a relaxed itinerary with plenty of café stops or sightseeing breaks, charging the car can easily fit into your schedule. Many hotels, attractions and public car parks also offer charging facilities, so you can top up the battery while exploring nearby.
That said, driving an EV does require a little more planning. It’s worth checking your remaining battery level before heading to more remote parts of the island and familiarising yourself with nearby charging stations.
Why a Petrol Car May Be Easier
For first-time visitors to Jeju, a petrol car remains the simplest and most straightforward option.
Refuelling only takes a few minutes, petrol stations are widely available, and there’s no need to think about charging times. If your itinerary involves covering long distances in a single day or visiting multiple attractions from morning until night, a petrol car offers greater flexibility and convenience.
Although fuel costs are generally higher than charging an EV, some travellers may find the added convenience worthwhile, especially for shorter holidays.
So… Which One Would I Recommend?
If you’re comfortable with a little planning and want to enjoy lower running costs, an EV is a great choice in Jeju. The island is well prepared for electric vehicles, and the charging infrastructure makes the experience surprisingly hassle-free.
However, if this is your first self-drive holiday in Korea or you simply prefer the easiest option, renting a petrol car can offer greater peace of mind.
Personally, after experiencing both options, I would happily rent an EV again for a leisurely Jeju road trip. The charging process was much easier than I expected, and the savings on energy costs were a nice bonus. But if I had a packed itinerary with long driving days and limited time, I’d probably choose a petrol car instead.
At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong choice. It’s simply about choosing the option that best matches your itinerary, driving confidence and travel style.
If you’re still deciding, I’ve summarised the key differences, charging tips, fuel costs and practical considerations in my Instagram carousel to help make your decision a little easier before your Jeju adventure.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Jeju besides café hopping and admiring coastal views, 9.81 Park Jeju deserves a spot on your itinerary.
I honestly didn’t expect this attraction to become one of the highlights of our Jeju self-drive trip. I initially thought it would simply be another go-kart experience, but after spending a few hours here, I realized it’s much more than that. Imagine racing downhill powered purely by gravity, competing against your friends, having every ride automatically recorded on an app, and enjoying beautiful views of Jeju all at the same time.
Whether you’re travelling with friends, family or your partner, here’s everything you need to know before visiting 9.81 Park Jeju.
Where is 9.81 Park Jeju?
Located in Aewol, on the northwestern side of Jeju Island, 9.81 Park sits between the beautiful Aewol coastline and Hallasan Mountain. The location makes it an ideal stop if you’re exploring western Jeju.
It pairs perfectly with nearby attractions like:
Aewol Coastal Road
Handam Coastal Walk
Bomnal Café
Café Knotted Jeju
Various seaside cafés overlooking the ocean
If you’re doing a self-drive itinerary, you can easily spend half a day here before continuing towards Aewol for cafés or sunset by the coast.
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On-site (subject to availability)
If you’re visiting during weekends, school holidays or peak travel seasons, I’d recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
My Experience at 9.81 Park Jeju
The moment we arrived, we were impressed by how modern the entire park looked. Everything feels digital. From ticketing to race tracking. After checking in, we downloaded the official 9.81 Park App, which automatically synced with our wristbands.
981 Park App from my account
Every race records:
Lap timings
Speed
Rankings
Personal records
Race videos
Yes…you’ll even receive your driving videos after the ride!
Gravity Racing : The Highlight of the Park
After a short briefing, we headed to the starting platform.
The race begins from the top of a hill overlooking Jeju’s beautiful landscape.
Once released…You’re off! The feeling is surprisingly exhilarating.
Since there’s no engine noise, you can actually enjoy the surrounding scenery while focusing on navigating each bend. The downhill route has enough twists and turns to keep things exciting without feeling intimidating.
At the finish point, your kart is automatically transported back uphill while you sit back and enjoy another scenic ride.
It’s honestly one of the coolest transport systems I’ve experienced at any theme park.
Indoor Activities
If you think the park is only about kart racing, think again. There’s an entire indoor activity zone packed with games suitable for all ages.
Some of the activities include:
Ringgo futuristic bumper cars
Interactive sports games
Basketball challenges
Laser tag
Digital gaming experiences
Relaxation lounges
Café and dining spaces
Even if it rains, you’ll still have plenty to do indoors.
Heal Swing 360
One attraction I highly recommend trying is the Heal Swing 360. Unlike a typical giant swing, this one lets you soar high above Jeju’s landscape while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
It gives you just enough adrenaline without being overly scary.
If you’re visiting with friends, it’s also a great spot for photos and videos.
Useful Tips Before Visiting
1. Download the Official App
981 App from my account
Do this before your race. The app stores your:
Race timings
Rankings
Driving videos
Personal records
It makes the whole experience much more interactive.
2. Wear Comfortable Clothing
You’ll be walking around the park between activities, so sneakers are definitely recommended.
3. Secure Loose Items
Free lockers are available before racing, and you’ll need to store bags and loose belongings before getting into the kart.
4. Visit Earlier in the Day
Queues tend to become longer later in the afternoon.
Morning visits usually give you more flexibility to enjoy multiple rides and indoor attractions.
5. Allow Enough Time
I’d recommend setting aside at least 3–4 hours.
If you’re planning to try multiple races and indoor games, you could easily spend half a day here.
9.81 Park Jeju Information
Address : 880-24 Cheondeok-ro, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
Opening Hours : Daily. Approximately 9:00 AM – 6:20 PM (subject to seasonal changes)
Best Way to Visit: Self-drive (ample parking available) with no parking fee applicable.
Graduation season in Singapore means packed ceremonial halls, proud parents with phone cameras raised, and graduates clutching bouquets they’ll be photographed with for the rest of the day. The bouquet is part of the moment. And unlike most gifts, it shows up right there on the day, in every photo. If you’re buying for a graduate and need flowers that arrive on time, look good in pictures, and don’t require you to be awake at 6am to order, this guide is for you.
What Makes a Good Graduation Bouquet Graduation bouquets in Singapore are celebratory in nature. Bright, structured, and photogenic are the three things that matter most on the day. The graduate will be standing in good light, in a formal setting, holding the bouquet while someone photographs them from multiple angles. A limp bunch or something that looks small in frame works against the occasion.
Sunflowers are one of the most popular choices for graduation. They carry associations with good fortune and new beginnings, photograph well against both dark and light backgrounds, and hold up across a long ceremony day in Singapore’s climate. Yellow roses and gerberas carry similar symbolism and colour payoff. Hydrangeas add volume and texture for bouquets that need to photograph large. For a softer, more feminine palette, garden roses and lisianthus in blush or cream tones are a perennial choice.
Avoid anything highly fragrant or delicate if the graduate will be carrying the bouquet through an air- conditioned hall and then back out into the heat. The bouquet needs to last from ceremony to dinner.
Same-Day vs. Pre-Order: What You Need to Know Most florists in Singapore can handle graduation bouquets on a same-day basis, but there are a few things worth planning for. Graduation ceremonies run in clusters. Many local universities hold their convocations across a concentrated window, which means florists get busy. If you know the date, ordering two to three days ahead is worth doing. If you’ve left it to the morning of, same-day is still achievable with the right florist. Bear add-ons are popular for graduation. Many florists offer teddy bears, balloon clusters, or plush gifts bundled with the bouquet. These are worth adding at the time of order rather than asking on the day.
Cut-off times matter. Most Singapore florists take same-day graduation orders until early-to-mid afternoon. If the ceremony is in the evening, you have more runway. If it’s a morning ceremony, order the night before or first thing in the morning.
Flowers and Kisses is a local florist running since 2018, grown from a small home-based studio into a trusted name for same-day flower delivery across Singapore. Their graduation bouquet collection covers hand bouquets in celebratory palettes, from vibrant sunflower-forward arrangements to softer mixed-bloom options, with bear add-ons available for a fuller gift. Each bouquet is handcrafted in-studio and inspected before it leaves. Three delivery time slots run from morning through to 10 pm on weekdays, with cut-offs at 8 am, 12 pm, and 3.30 pm. Not satisfied on arrival? Their same-day fix guarantee means they’ll make it right before 3 pm.
Windflower Florist Cut-off: 3.30 pm for evening slots on weekdays | Free delivery islandwide (exclusions apply)
Windflower has been running since 2016 with a dedicated graduation flowers collection covering sunflower bouquets, hydrangea arrangements, and mixed-bloom designs with the option to add bears and balloons. Their “on time or it’s free” delivery guarantee backs the day-of order. Express 1-hour delivery is available on weekdays and Saturdays for last-minute situations.
Floristique is a founder-led studio known for photo-ready bouquets in artisan-style wrapping. Their graduation collection is described on-site as designed specifically for commencement occasions. Free islandwide delivery including Sentosa, with same-day available for orders placed before 2pm.
Little Flower Hut Cut-off: 5pm Mon–Sat (no same-day on Sundays and public holidays) | Free delivery on orders $40+
Little Flower Hut carries graduation flowers as part of their occasion range and offers one of the later cut-off times in the list at 5pm on weekdays and Saturdays. Orders placed by 12pm arrive between 2–5.30pm; orders placed between 12pm and 5pm arrive between 7–10pm. A useful option if you’re ordering mid-afternoon on graduation day.
Flower Chimp Cut-off: 5:00 PM from Monday to Friday, and before 2:00 PM on weekends | Same-day delivery Available
Flower Chimp lists graduation as a supported occasion and has a broad catalogue of arrangements at accessible price points. Order before 5pm on weekdays and Saturdays, or 2pm on Sundays, for same-day delivery with arrival up to 10pm. You can add chocolates or balloons to the order at checkout.
Flower Empire Cut-off: 1pm for same-day | Next-day available for orders placed 1–5pm
Flower Empire sits at the more premium end of Singapore’s florist scene, with designer arrangements in luxury flower boxes, glass vases, and woven baskets. The presentation goes beyond a standard wrapped bouquet, which suits occasions where the gift needs to look the part. Order before 1pm for same-day; next-day delivery is available for orders placed between 1pm and 5pm.
24Hrs City Florist Cut-off: 8pm | Physical store open until 10.30pm
If you’ve left it to the last possible moment, 24Hrs City Florist accepts same-day orders until 8pm and has a retail store on Race Course Road open daily from 9am to 10.30pm. Urgent delivery within 2–3 hours is available, subject to location, timing, and gift type, with fees ranging from $45 to $100. Call 6396 4222 to arrange.
Tips for Getting the Graduation Bouquet Right Match the size to the ceremony. University convocations are formal and well-photographed. A medium-to-large bouquet photographs better than a small one in a wide ceremonial hall. If you’re unsure, go one size up.
Confirm the delivery address and timing early. Some graduates head to their campus early for robe collection and photos before the ceremony. Check whether the bouquet should go to the venue, a family home, or a meeting point, and factor in the florist’s delivery window.
Add a card. The bouquet will be photographed, but the card is what the graduate reads later. A short, specific message beats a generic “congratulations” every time.
If the ceremony is in the morning, order the night before. Most same-day cut-offs sit between noon and 3.30pm. For a 10am ceremony, same-day ordering is not going to work unless you have a florist with a very early morning slot. Pre-ordering for a specific time window removes the stress entirely. Graduation only happens once. The flowers are in every photo from that day. It’s worth the ten minutes to get them right.
Indigestion after a heavy meal is something many people experience from time to time, particularly during holidays and other special occasions that call for celebratory feasting. It’s also quite common when rich foods, irregular eating habits, and stress eating are involved.
Fortunately for most people, these symptoms improve with time or over-the-counter remedies. Even so, persistent hyperacidity should not be dismissed as a minor inconvenience. Frequent acid-related symptoms are sometimes early signs of more serious digestive conditions that require medical attention.
Often, people searching online for information about heartburn are often trying to determine whether their symptoms are benign or a sign of a more concerning condition. In many cases, however, serious gastrointestinal conditions tend to come with multiple warning signs other than simple indigestion. Seek professional medical advice if you experience the following alongside episodes of indigestion:
Burning Sensations Keep Returning Despite Medication Short-term relief from antacids does not always mean the underlying issue has been resolved. If the symptoms only improve briefly, or return repeatedly over weeks or months, it may suggest gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, more commonly referred to as GERD. Aside from GERD acid reflux, frequent episodes may also suggest gastritis or other serious digestive disorders.
Difficulty Swallowing Develops Over Time Eating should never be uncomfortable or painful. A constant sensation that food is getting stuck in the throat or chest can indicate inflammation or narrowing within the oesophagus. One potential explanation is that prolonged acid exposure may be damaging the lining of the oesophagus and leading to complications such as strictures or changes in the tissue. In other cases, swallowing difficulties may also be attributed to more serious gastrointestinal conditions that require prompt medical investigation.
Unexplained Weight Loss Occurs Alongside Hyperacidity Significant weight loss without intentional dieting or increased physical activity should always be a cause for serious concern. If you experience this alongside hyperacidity, it may indicate a digestive condition that interferes with appetite or nutrient absorption. In these cases, you need an evaluation for ulcers, chronic inflammation, or other gastrointestinal disorders.
Persistent Nausea or Vomiting Becomes Common An occasional upset stomach is not unusual, particularly after consuming certain foods. However, repeated nausea, especially when accompanied by frequent vomiting, may point to more significant digestive problems. This may indicate severe acid reflux, stomach inflammation, ulcers, or obstruction within the digestive tract. If left untreated, ongoing vomiting may also lead to dehydration and nutritional deficiencies.
Symptoms Interfere With Sleep Regularly
Night-time acid reflux can significantly disrupt sleep quality, even if you may not realise it immediately. Some individuals may wake up coughing or choking, while others may experience a burning sensation in the chest after lying down. There can also be times when the connection between hyperacidity and poor sleep is less clear, only manifesting as reduced concentration or moodiness. Frequent night time symptoms can also suggest more advanced reflux disease, particularly if lifestyle changes and basic remedies are no longer effective.
Chest Pain Feels Severe or Unusual Acid reflux sometimes causes chest discomfort that can easily be confused for heart-related pain. In either case, such pain should never be ignored. If the pain spreads to the arm, jaw, or back, or occurs together with dizziness or shortness of breath, call for medical attention immediately. Even when symptoms turn out to be digestive in origin, it is still important to rule out potentially life-threatening cardiovascular conditions first.
Blood Appears in Vomit or Stool Bleeding anywhere in the digestive tract should always be treated as a serious warning sign. Generally speaking, vomit that appears dark or resembles coffee grounds may indicate bleeding in the upper digestive system. Similarly, black or otherwise tarry stools can suggest internal bleeding linked to ulcers, severe gastritis, or other gastrointestinal conditions. In either case, seek immediate medical evaluation to identify the source of the bleeding and prevent further complications.
Persistent Hoarseness or Chronic Cough Develops Hyperacidity can sometimes affect the throat, irritating nearby tissues and affecting the voice or airways. When this happens, you may develop chronic coughing, frequent throat clearing, or persistent hoarseness without realising acid reflux may be contributing to the problem. Left untreated, ongoing throat irritation may lead to inflammation or damage in the vocal cords or oesophagus that can continue affecting comfort and daily communication.
Ongoing Fatigue Starts Affecting Daily Life Constant digestive discomfort can gradually wear down your energy levels and affect your ability to relax properly. Poor sleep, reduced appetite, and ongoing inflammation may sometimes accompany persistent hyperacidity, particularly when symptoms are linked to underlying digestive conditions. In more serious cases, complications such as internal bleeding may also develop and potentially worsen other health issues you may already be managing.
Chronic Hyperacidity Should Not Be Ignored As hyperacidity symptoms become frequent, severe, or accompanied by other warning signs, prompt medical attention becomes more and more warranted. If hyperacidity has started affecting your comfort, eating habits, sleep, or overall well-being, seeking proper medical guidance is the first step in effective long-term relief.
If you are a Singapore PR holding a valid Singapore driving licence and still have your Malaysian IC, here’s some useful information if you are planning to convert back to a Malaysian driving licence as per May 2026 information.
The good news is that there is no need to cancel your Singapore PR status and no need to cancel your Singapore driving license during the process.
One of the key documents needed is the Original Extract Letter from Singapore Traffic Police (UBI).
You will also need to prepare the following:
Original Extract Letter from Singapore ( Print out 2 copies)
Photocopy of Malaysian IC & Malaysian driving licence
Photocopy of Singapore PR IC
As long as you are still holding a valid Malaysian IC, you are eligible to proceed with the conversion application.
Processing Time
The processing time may take around one month or longer, depending on the individual case and approval process.
According to the information shared, this process is handled through Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan Malaysia (JPJ) in Johor Bahru, as Johor reportedly handles one of the highest volumes of such cases. For further clarification or the latest requirements, it is advisable to contact JPJ Johor Bahru directly.
If you required the service to assist you with the conversion, I have a runner in Johor Bahru who provide such services. If you are interested, you can join my telegram or leave a comment on the post so that i can provide you his details.
Here’s his fee breakdown:
Service Charge: RM350
Licence Card: RM50
Total: RM400
For Malaysians currently based in Singapore, this option can be useful if you wish to maintain or convert your driving license status back in Malaysia without affecting your Singapore PR or Singapore driving license.
If you are planning to reinstate your Malaysian driving licence while holding Singapore PR status, the process currently requires several supporting documents:
Original Extract Letter from Singapore Police • Photocopy of Malaysian IC • Photocopy of Singapore PR IC & Singapore Driving Licence
Fees: • Service fee: RM300 (Personal submission to Putrajaya, KL required for approval) • Driving licence card: RM50 • Courier to Singapore: RM35
Total: RM385
Processing time may take approximately one month or longer depending on the case and approval process. Information is based on the current process shared by JPJ Johor Bahru.
This spring, I had the chance to explore Passages of Spring, a beautifully curated Chinese dining experience that really celebrates the season in the most elegant way at Jiang-Nan Chun Four Seasons Hotel Singapore. Think lighter flavours, nourishing dishes, and a strong focus on premium ingredients. All brought together with refined Cantonese techniques.
Crafted by Executive Chinese Chef Alan Chan, this limited-time menu runs until 15 May 2026 and highlights the best of spring’s harvest from tender greens to young shoots, presented in dishes that feel both comforting and refreshing. The 6-course set menu is priced at S$238++ per person, with an optional wine pairing at S$85.00++, alongside an à la carte selection for those seeking more flexibility.
Showcasing highlights from our dinner, the Jiang-Nan Platter offered an elegant trio of starters. The marinated South African Abalone was delicate and refreshing, the Honey-glazed Iberico Pork delivered a rich balance of sweetness and savoury depth, while the Spiced Fried Scallop added a satisfying crisp texture with a gentle kick of spice. An appetising introduction to the meal.
Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Sea Whelk, Conpoy and Morel Mushroom is served in a whole coconut, offering a light yet deeply comforting broth infused with the natural sweetness of its ingredients. Be sure to scrape the coconut flesh, which has absorbed all the rich essence of the soup, for an extra layer of flavour.
Wok-fried A5 Wagyu Beef with Spring Bamboo Shoots in Black Pepper Sauce strikes a lovely balance between richness and freshness, lifted by a subtle peppery kick. Even if you’re not usually a fan of bamboo shoots, this dish might change your mind. The black pepper sauce brings everything together beautifully. The bamboo shoots add a crisp, refreshing crunch that complements the tender, well-marbled beef, keeping the dish light and perfectly suited for a spring menu.
Braised White Asparagus in Superior Broth is all about delicacy, subtle sweetness, and a silky, comforting mouthfeel.
The Braised Inaniwa Noodles with Australian Lobster was a clear crowd favourite. Silky noodles are enveloped in a fragrant shrimp sauce, complemented by sweet, tender lobster that adds a delicate richness to the dish. Comforting yet refined, it remains light enough to suit the season while delivering layers of flavour in every bite.
Our meal concluded with an Orange Blossom Mousse paired with Black Sesame Crèmeux and White Chocolate. Lightly sweet and well-balanced, the dessert highlighted delicate citrus notes with a smooth, airy texture that rounded off the experience beautifully.
If you’re seeking a seasonal dining experience that feels both special and comforting, this is certainly one to consider. The menu leans towards clean, refined flavours with nothing overly heavy or overpowering, focusing instead on balance and allowing quality ingredients to shine.
Marking the arrival of spring, Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant at Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel introduces its “Spring in Bloom Delicacies”. A limited-time menu that celebrates the season through premium ingredients and refined Cantonese craftsmanship.
Available from 4 March to 30 April 2026, the menu highlights seasonal produce such as spring bamboo shoots, citrus elements, and delicate floral notes, presented across an elegant selection of à la carte dishes and a thoughtfully curated 5-course set menu.
We started the evening with the Trio of Appetisers, a beautifully plated introduction to the menu. The Deep-Fried Prawn with Mandarin Orange Sauce stood out with its light, crispy coating, finished with a refreshing citrus glaze. The Roast Kurobuta Pork Char Siew with Osmanthus Honey offered a rich, smoky sweetness with delicate floral notes, though we found it slightly on the dry side. Nonetheless, the flavours and texture were still well-executed.Rounding off the trio, the Pan-Fried Japanese Scallop with Spring Bamboo Shoot and Yuzu showcased the scallop’s natural sweetness, complemented by a gentle crunch and a subtle citrus lift.
The Steamed Marble Goby Fillet with Pea Sprout in Lemongrass Chicken Superior Stock impressed with its delicate, silky texture, as the fish beautifully absorbed the rich, aromatic broth. While the dish was comforting and well-executed, the lemongrass notes came through rather subtly. We would have preferred a more pronounced citrusy lift. That said, the chicken superior stock was deeply flavourful, and the fish itself was exceptionally fresh and well-cooked.
Next up was the Stewed Iberico Pork with Fermented Red Bean Curd Paste and Spring Bamboo Shoot, served bubbling in a stone pot. The pork was fork-tender and richly infused with deep umami flavours, beautifully complemented by the natural sweetness and subtle crunch of the bamboo shoots.
The Golden Vermicelli with Crab Meat, Spring Bamboo Shoot and Ginger was all about texture. Light, crisp vermicelli paired with sweet crab meat and tender bamboo shoots. The crunch was seriously satisfying, almost ASMR-level with every bite. While we enjoyed the dish, a slightly brighter and more punchy sauce would have tied everything together even better.
To end the meal, we had the Chilled White Chrysanthemum Jelly with Honey Sorbet. It offered a refreshing finish, and we especially enjoyed the honey sorbet. Light, fragrant, and one of our favourites.
The Spring in Bloom Delicacies menu at Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant offers a refined take on seasonal Cantonese cuisine, focusing on lighter, more delicate flavours rather than the usual bold profiles. Despite its subtlety, the menu still delivers on classic elegance and thoughtful execution.
Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant 萬豪軒 Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel 320 Orchard Road, Singapore 238865 Tel: +65 6831 4605 Website: https://www.wanhaochineserestaurant.com/
Taipei is one of those cities that keeps drawing travellers back with its vibrant food scene, charming old streets and easy day trips to scenic towns just outside the city. From nostalgic tea houses in the mountains to hip café districts and traditional markets, Taipei offers a mix of culture, history and modern lifestyle.
If you are planning a 5D4N Taipei itinerary, here is a suggested route that combines neighbourhood exploration with day trips to Jiufen, Shifen, Keelung and Shenkeng.
Day 1: Arrival In Taipei & Explore Zhongshan District
Start your Taipei adventure in Zhongshan District, one of the city’s most stylish neighbourhoods filled with cafés, boutiques and creative spaces.
The highlight here is Chifeng Street, a charming alley that has transformed from an old mechanical workshop area into a trendy café district. Today, it is filled with minimalist coffee shops, dessert cafés and independent boutiques. It is a great place to ease into Taipei’s relaxed lifestyle while enjoying the local café culture.
In the evening, head to Ximending, Taipei’s most energetic shopping and entertainment district. Often compared to Tokyo’s Shibuya or Harajuku, this pedestrian-friendly area is packed with street food, shopping and nightlife.
As night falls, the district lights up with neon signs, street performers and food stalls.
Things to do
Watch street performers
Shop for fashion and souvenirs
Visit the historic Red House Theatre
What to eat
Tian Tian Li (天天利美食坊) – braised pork rice
Ah Chung Mian Xian (阿宗麵線) – vermicelli soup
Crispy Donut (脆皮甜甜圈) – addictive street snack
Xin Fu Tang (幸福堂) – brown sugar bubble milk
Ruyi Sunny Cake (如邑堂) – free pastry tasting
Day 2: Explore Dihua Street & Dadaocheng
Spend the second day exploring Dihua Street, one of Taipei’s oldest and most historic streets located in the Dadaocheng district. Once a major trading hub during the Qing Dynasty, this area is now known for its preserved heritage shophouses selling tea, dried goods, traditional snacks and Chinese medicine herbs. Many of the buildings have also been restored into beautiful tea houses and cultural stores.
After exploring Dihua Street, you can take a short walk to Dadaocheng Wharf for a relaxing evening by the riverside. Once an important trading port during Taipei’s early development, the area has transformed into a scenic waterfront spot where locals gather to unwind.
As the sun begins to set, the wharf offers a peaceful atmosphere with views of the Tamsui River, making it a lovely place to slow down after a day of exploring the historic streets of Dadaocheng. Visitors can stroll along the cycling paths, enjoy street snacks from nearby stalls or simply sit by the river and watch the sunset. With the city skyline gradually lighting up and the river breeze setting in, Dadaocheng Wharf is a great place to chill and relax before heading back for dinner or continuing your evening in Taipei.
Things to do
Visit traditional Taiwanese tea houses
Shop for souvenirs and Taiwanese snacks
Explore historic shophouses
Food & café spots
ASW Tea House – modern tea bar with Taiwanese teas
Jia Jia Peanut Candy – traditional peanut candy shop
Summer Tree Sweet – famous pineapple cakes
Transport tip
Take the MRT Green Line to Beimen Station, then walk about 10 minutes.
Day 3: Jiufen & Shifen Day Trip
Take a scenic day trip to Jiufen and Shifen, two of the most popular destinations outside Taipei.
Jiufen is a charming mountain village famous for its lantern-lined streets, nostalgic tea houses and panoramic views of the sea. Walking through the narrow alleys feels like stepping into a different era.
After Jiufen, head to Shifen, where visitors release sky lanterns along the railway tracks. A tradition believed to carry wishes into the sky.
Highlights
Jiufen Old Street snacks
Traditional tea houses with mountain views
Shifen Sky Lantern experience
Shifen Waterfall nearby
Transport tip: Take a train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station, then bus or taxi to Jiufen.
Head to Shenkeng Old Street, often called Taiwan’s “Tofu Street.” The area is famous for its tofu-based dishes such as braised tofu, grilled tofu and the iconic stinky tofu. The street is lively and filled with traditional snack stalls.
The area is famous for its tofu-based dishes such as braised tofu, grilled tofu and the iconic stinky tofu. The street is lively and filled with traditional snack stalls.
Spend the day exploring Keelung, a charming harbour city about 40 minutes from Taipei. Start at Zhengbin Fishing Harbor, a colourful fisherman village often compared to a mini Santorini, where waterfront cafés and vibrant houses create a picturesque setting for photos and a relaxing coffee break.
Next, head to Heping Island Park, known for its dramatic coastal rock formations and scenic ocean views. Visitors can stroll along the seaside trails, admire the unique geological landscape and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. You can pre-purchase the Heping Island Park e-ticket to explore the park.
End the day at Keelung Miaokou Night Market, one of Taiwan’s most famous night markets located near the harbour. The market is especially popular for its seafood dishes, with stalls serving local favourites such as crab soup, oyster omelette and Taiwanese tempura. It’s the perfect place to experience Keelung’s lively street food culture before returning to Taipei.
Must-try food
Braised tofu in Shenkeng
Stinky tofu
Crab soup at Keelung Night Market
Oyster omelette
Fried tempura
Transport tip: Take theMRT Brown Line to Taipei Zoo Station, then bus to Shenkeng.
For Keelung, take a train from Taipei Main Station (40 minutes).
Day 5: Brunch & Café Hopping In Da’an
Spend your final morning exploring Da’an District, one of Taipei’s most pleasant neighbourhoods. Known for its tree-lined streets and relaxed vibe, the district is filled with stylish cafés and brunch spots. You can also visit Da’an Forest Park, often called the “Central Park of Taipei,” which offers a peaceful escape from the city.
Café recommendations
Simple Kaffa – world-famous Taiwanese coffee
Coffee Sind – minimalist specialty café
Moonshine Coffee Roasters – great brunch spot
Transport tip: Take the MRT Red Line to Da’an Station.
A 5D4N Taipei trip offers the perfect balance of city exploration and nearby adventures. From café hopping in Zhongshan and Da’an to exploring historic streets like Dihua and scenic towns like Jiufen, Taipei offers an incredibly diverse travel experience.
Whether you are a food lover, café enthusiast or culture explorer, Taipei is a city that always has something new to discover.
Ximending is one of Taipei’s most vibrant districts, often compared to Tokyo’s Shibuya or Harajuku. First-time visitors usually flock to the night market snacks, shopping streets and famous landmarks. But if you have already visited Ximending before, the area still has plenty of hidden gems and nostalgic bites worth revisiting.
During my recent trip to Taipei, I revisited Ximending not as a first-timer, but as someone looking for familiar flavours and local favourites that never go out of style. From legendary braised pork rice to crispy street snacks and iconic Taiwanese drinks, here are a few things worth doing in Ximending if you have already checked the typical tourist list.
Tian Tian Li (天天利美食坊)
Located in the heart of Ximending, Tian Tian Li (天天利美食坊) has been serving comforting Taiwanese classics for decades and remains a favourite among locals and returning visitors.
The highlight here is their Braised Pork Rice topped with Fried Egg, where the rich, savoury pork sauce seeps into the fluffy rice while the silky egg adds an extra layer of indulgence. Simple, satisfying and full of Taiwanese soul.
Another popular dish is their Oyster Omelette, though I personally felt that versions from Ningxia Night Market still have the edge in terms of flavour and texture. Still, it’s worth trying if you are already here.
Expect queues even before opening hours, but service moves quickly. Orders are placed via a paper order sheet before entering the shop, making the process efficient despite the crowd.
2. Crispy Donut (脆皮甜甜圈)
One of the most addictive street snacks in Ximending is the Crispy Donut (脆皮甜甜圈). You will often notice a queue forming around this humble stall. It is a good sign that something delicious is being fried.
Freshly made on the spot, the donut is deep-fried until golden before being coated generously with sugar. The outside is crisp and slightly crunchy while the inside remains soft and fluffy.
Best enjoyed hot and fresh, this simple Taiwanese street snack proves that sometimes the most basic treats can be the most satisfying. Interestingly, the queue seems even longer than when I last visited two years ago.
3. Ah Chung Mian Xian (阿宗麵線)
A trip to Ximending almost always includes a stop at Ah Chung Mian Xian (阿宗麵線), one of Taipei’s most famous street food stalls.
The vermicelli soup here is rich, thick and comforting, topped with tender braised pork intestine. The best part is customising the flavours with garlic, vinegar and chilli sauce at the counter.
There are no seats here .Everyone simply stands around the stall enjoying their bowls of noodles. Somehow, this casual street-side dining experience is part of what makes it so iconic.
Even if you have tried it before, it’s one of those nostalgic bites many travellers return to whenever they are back in Ximending.
4. Buy Sunny Cake From Ruyi (如邑堂) — With Free Tasting
If you are looking for Taiwanese souvenirs, Ruyi Sunny Cake (如邑堂) in Ximending is a great stop.
What makes the shop special is that most of their pastries are available for tasting, allowing visitors to sample different flavours before deciding what to buy. Upon entering, staff often serve guests a cup of hot tea while offering samples of their signature items.
Besides the classic sun cakes, you can also try other pastries such as tieguanyin tea pastries, matcha treats, taro pastries and yolk pastries. For travellers buying gifts, the shop also offers tax refund services and careful packing, making it convenient to bring home Taiwanese treats for friends and family.
Bubble tea is practically synonymous with Taiwan, and Xin Fu Tang (幸福堂) is one of the well-known brands famous for its brown sugar bubble milk.
Their signature drink is prepared with freshly cooked brown sugar pearls that are caramelised in a hot wok before being mixed with fresh milk. The result is a creamy drink with warm, chewy pearls and fragrant caramel notes.
While bubble tea options are endless in Taipei, Xin Fu Tang remains a fun stop in Ximending for those craving a classic Taiwanese drink while exploring the district.
Ximending may be one of Taipei’s most visited districts, but it still offers plenty to explore beyond the typical tourist checklist. For returning visitors, revisiting familiar favourites like Tian Tian Li or Ah Chung Mian Xian can feel surprisingly nostalgic, while street snacks and souvenir shops add small discoveries along the way.
Sometimes the best way to enjoy Ximending is simply to slow down, revisit old favourites and snack your way through the neighbourhood again.
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If you are exploring Ximending in Taipei, one bakery that should be on your list is Ruyi Sunny Cake Taipei Kaifeng Store (如邑堂餅家). Known for its award-winning Taiwanese sun cakes (太陽餅) and generous tasting experience, this popular bakery attracts both locals and tourists looking for authentic Taiwanese pastries and souvenirs.
What makes this shop stand out is its “taste before you buy” concept. Visitors are welcomed with complimentary hot tea and free samples of many pastries, allowing you to try the different flavours comfortably before deciding what to purchase.
Located near Ximending, one of Taipei’s busiest shopping districts, Ruyi Sunny Cake Taipei Kaifeng Store has become a favourite stop for travellers looking to bring home Taiwanese baked goods as souvenirs.
Upon entering the shop, customers are greeted warmly by the staff and offered a cup of hot tea while being introduced to their signature pastries. Many of the products are available for tasting, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment where visitors can sit down and enjoy the treats without feeling pressured to buy.
The staff are also known for their excellent customer service, assisting tourists with:
Explaining different pastry flavours
Preparing items for travel-friendly packing
Providing extra bags for omiyage (souvenirs)
Helping with tax refund paperwork for purchases above TWD 2,000
English menus are available as well, making it convenient for international visitors.
Award-Winning Taiwanese Sun Cakes
Ruyi Sunny Cake is especially famous for its traditional Taiwanese sun cakes, a beloved pastry made with delicate flaky layers filled with sweet maltose filling.
The bakery has received multiple recognitions for its sun cakes, making them one of the most popular Taiwanese souvenirs to bring home from Taipei.
Some of the sun cake flavours available include the original, Tieguanyin, Matcha and also Truffle.Among these, the Original Sunny Cake remains the most recommended. The pastry is lightly flaky with a fragrant maltose filling that is not overly sweet, making it easy to enjoy with tea.
Other Taiwanese Pastries to Try
Besides sun cakes, the bakery also offers a variety of traditional and modern pastries worth sampling. Some highlights include:
Matcha pastries
Taro pastries
Lemon tarts
Salted egg yolk pastries
With most items available for tasting, visitors can easily explore the different flavours and pick their favourites before purchasing.
Thanks to its free sampling experience, award-winning sun cakes and warm hospitality, Ruyi Sunny Cake Taipei Kaifeng Store has become one of the best bakeries in Taipei to buy traditional Taiwanese pastries.
Whether you are looking for a quick snack while exploring Ximending or planning to bring home Taiwan food souvenirs, this bakery offers a delightful and memorable tasting experience.
Alternatively, you can also stack up your Shopee vouchers & coins and purchase here.
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