HazelDiary

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.

1. 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.

You can read full details on my previous post here.

5. Xin Fu Tang (幸福堂)

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.

A Tourist-Friendly Bakery in Ximending

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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Tainan, often regarded as Taiwan’s cultural capital, offers a fascinating mix of history, heritage, and modernity. As the island’s oldest city, Tainan carries the distinct marks of Dutch colonization, the Qing dynasty, and Japanese rule, creating a unique tapestry of cultures to explore. Just 1.5 hours by High-Speed Rail from Taipei, Tainan is a perfect destination for those keen to immerse themselves in its rich history. And for families looking for a comfortable, family-friendly hotel in the heart of the city, Silks Place Tainan is an excellent choice.

As far as I can remember, this was my first visit to Tainan, and I had the pleasure of staying at Silks Place Tainan. Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, is a captivating blend of rich history and modern charm. Founded in the 1600s during the Dutch colonization era, it was once the capital of Taiwan and continues to carry the title of the island’s cultural capital. With over 400 years of heritage, Tainan offers a fascinating mix of colonial Dutch, Qing dynasty, and Japanese influences, all woven into the fabric of the city.

A mere 1.5-hour ride from Taipei via the High-Speed Rail makes Tainan an easy escape for travelers seeking to explore the past while enjoying the convenience of modern-day amenities.

TIPS: You can always pre-purchase your train ticket here.

Location

The hotel is conveniently located in the city center. The location is an ideal base for both sightseeing and unwinding. It’s positioned close to a major department store and just a 15-minute drive from the airport, making it easy to access transportation and shopping.

The Stay

Silks Place Tainan boasts 255 well-appointed rooms, making it an ideal choice for families with its spacious accommodations and a variety of amenities for both adults and children. The rooms are offered in Regular and Silks Floors, with the latter providing access to the exclusive Silks Lounge.

For families, the Junior Family Suite stands out with its generous 52.9 sqm layout, featuring a King-sized bed, a tatami-inspired sitting area, and modern amenities such as a virtual concierge (Aiello Spot), smart TVs, and a minibar stocked with complimentary water and coffee. I had the pleasure of staying in this suite during my recent visit.

The suite’s design beautifully blends contemporary style with Japanese-inspired touches. The living area includes a large sitting space and a walk-in wardrobe, while the bedroom is separated by a sliding Japanese partition, offering a sense of privacy and tranquility.

The complimentary sparkling tea and winter melon tea ale, crafted in collaboration with local partners, were wonderfully refreshing. I love their sparkling tea!

In addition to the usual toiletries, I appreciated the thoughtful touches at Silks Place Tainan, such as the inclusion of complimentary face masks.

A Family-Friendly Hotel

At Silks Place Tainan, there’s no shortage of amenities for both adults and kids. The Kids Club is a haven for younger guests, offering games, PS4 consoles, and a variety of activities to keep them entertained. Adults can unwind at the fitness center, enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, or simply relax in the lounge areas.

Hotel Facilities

Rooftop Infinity Pool
The temperature-controlled rooftop infinity pool offers stunning views of the city. During my visit around 5pm, it was a popular spot, with guests lounging by the pool and children enjoying the water. With cozy seating areas and even a fireplace nearby, I can easily imagine this as an ideal venue for a poolside gathering or event.

Gym
The gym at Silks Place Tainan is well-equipped, offering a good selection of free weights and cardio machines, including treadmills and bikes, making it a great spot to stay active during your stay.

Dining Experiences

Silks Place Tainan offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every taste. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Robin’s Grill, where a buffet featuring both Western and local specialties, including the renowned Tainan Beef Soup, awaits. Alternatively, hotel guests can enjoy a more traditional breakfast experience on the ballroom’s Level 2..

For dinner, we had the pleasure of dining at Silks House, where a team of expert chefs masterfully prepares exquisite Cantonese and Taiwanese fine-dining dishes that are sure to delight any connoisseur. The menu features a curated selection of Cantonese signature dishes, Hong Kong-style dim sum, and beloved Taiwanese classics, offering guests a top-tier dining experience. It truly was a feast for the senses.

T-Bar, located adjacent to the hotel reception, is an artisanal café offering specialty coffee along with a selection of organic Chinese and British teas. During our stay, we also had the unique experience of a perfume-making session, where the fragrance was infused with the rich scent of coffee.

During our visit, we also stopped by the Glass House bar, located beside the pool. The bar offers a playful and interactive drinking experience, featuring a 108-shot tower and a roulette-style game with shots inspired by the 36 Stratagems, a classic Chinese strategy text.

Nearby Attractions

Beyond the comforts of Silks Place Tainan, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences that beautifully blend tradition and modernity. Just next door, you’ll find Shinkong Mitsukoshi, a popular department store for those looking to indulge in some shopping. For an authentic taste of local culture, a visit to Yongle Market is a must—here, you can savor traditional Tainan street food like pig tongue dumplings.

Tainan is also famed for its vibrant night markets, and Dadong Night Market is the perfect place to sample delicious street food, enjoy games, and soak in the lively atmosphere. To delve deeper into the city’s past, don’t miss the Old Tainan Magistrate Residence, a historical gem that now houses exhibitions, a charming café, and a boutique store. Tainan, with its unique blend of cultural attractions, delectable food, and historical sites, offers something for every traveler.

In conclusion, Tainan effortlessly weaves together the charm of its history, rich culture, and modern conveniences. Silks Place Tainan is the ideal base for exploring this fascinating city, offering luxurious accommodations, family-friendly amenities, and a central location that makes discovering Tainan’s hidden gems a breeze. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to experience more, a stay at Silks Place Tainan guarantees a memorable and enriching getaway.

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Discovering the hidden gems of Keelung on a day trip from Taipei is recommended to any frequent travelers in Taiwan. Situated northeast of Taipei along the picturesque north coast, Keelung is referred to as the “Port of Taipei” offers a blend of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and scenic landscapes that are sure to captivate your interest.  

Here is my guide to making the most of your Taipei to Keelung day trip goes:

By Train: There are several ways to travel from Taipei to Keelung, catering to different preferences and budgets. The most popular option is by train, with frequent services departing from Taipei Main Station, Songshan Station, or Nangang Station. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour, offering scenic views along the way.

By Bus: Alternatively, you can opt for a bus ride, with routes departing from various stations in Taipei City. We opt for the 30 minutes bus ride (Bus 1800) from Taipei City Hall Bus Staton to Keelung City. We went on a weekday, so the road traffic was smooth. It is not recommended to take the bus on weekends or public holidays as the road traffic can be congested.

TIPS: Since the bus will go through the highway route, there will be a seat for every passenger. So, no need to worry about standing on the bus throughout the journey. The bus driver will not accept standing passengers. 
Your Easycard can be used for bus ride too. You can pre-purchase it here.
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By Car:If you prefer the flexibility of driving, you can pre-book your private car here or check with hotel to assist you on getting a taxi/cab allowing you to explore Keelung at your own pace.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at Ren’ai Market, a bustling marketplace teeming with activity. Here, you’ll discover an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs waiting to be explored. Take your time navigating the market, indulging in authentic Taiwanese snacks, and engaging with the welcoming vendors.

Venture to the second level of the market, where a plethora of stalls beckon with fresh sashimi and seafood delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample fresh oysters and prawns at affordable prices from one of the stalls. For those craving sashimi treats, there are plenty of options to satisfy your palate.

Additionally, explore the classic and modern coffee shops located on the same level. Treat yourself to a satisfying lunch before the next stop.

Opening Hours: Daily 8:00AM-5:00PM

Address: No. 21號, Aisan Rd, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan 200

Begin your exploration at the vibrant Keelung Harbour, where you can stroll along the Maritime Plaza and admire the breathtaking views of the coastline. Take a moment to relax by the water, soaking in the bustling atmosphere of this historic port city.

Originally named Takasago, Zhongshan Bridge stands as Taiwan’s oldest railway bridge, connecting the immigrant settlement of Seine-Tsai-Liu to Keelung Train Station. Its distinctive blue structure, reminiscent of the historical passage in Takasagomachi during Japanese occupation, has been a witness to over 40 years of Keelung’s history. For locals, it holds cherished childhood memories of trains arriving and departing, though now its role has shifted with the construction of a semi-underground railway.

Today, Zhongshan Bridge serves as a nostalgic shortcut from Keelung Train Station to An 1st Road, inviting visitors to explore the area’s local cuisine. In the cinematic masterpiece “Millennium Mambo,” directed by Hou Hsiao-hsien, the bridge takes on a mesmerizing allure, especially in the iconic opening scene featuring actress Shu Qi dancing in the midnight air, embodying a sense of freedom against the dreamy backdrop of Zhongshan Bridge.

To reach Zhengbin Fishing Harbor, a scenic waterfront area renowned for its vibrant buildings and breathtaking vistas, you have the option to either catch a bus from the main station or hail a cab. Once there, take your time exploring the harbor’s picturesque surroundings and capturing memorable photos against the beautiful backdrop.

After capturing your desired shots, consider taking a stroll around and visiting one of the cozy cafes nestled nearby for a cup of tea or coffee. The cafes here are nice to chill and savor the tranquil ambiance before the next stop.

Conclude your day with a visit to Zhongzheng Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Keelung and beyond. Marvel at the towering Guan Yin statue and soak in the tranquil ambiance of this scenic park before heading back to Taipei. We decided not to visit the park and went back to the station and took a bus back to Taipei city.

No trip to Keelung is truly complete without immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Miaokou Night Market. With some stalls opening as early as 4pm, embark on a culinary journey through a plethora of street food delights. From delectable oyster omelets to refreshing peanut ice, there’s something to tantalize every palate.

For an unforgettable experience, plan your visit on a Saturday or Sunday night to witness the mesmerizing glow of the iconic yellow lanterns illuminating the lively streets.

In summary, embarking on a day trip to Keelung from Taipei offers an enriching opportunity to immerse yourself in the allure and heritage of this historic port city. Diverging from the typical tourist attractions of Taipei, Keelung provides a tranquil escape where you can savor moments of serenity and embrace the local culture.

Moreover, Keelung’s proximity to Jiufen Old Street and the hiking trails of Yangmingshan Mountain presents the perfect opportunity for a comprehensive exploration of the region. If you’re traveling by private car, you can easily incorporate these destinations into your Taiwan itinerary for a day of discovery.

Taipei, Taiwan has always been one of the top favourite travel destinations for Singaporeans and Malaysians. Like Japan, I do visit Taiwan from time to time for the beautiful nature, good food, Chinese culture and meeting my Taiwanese friends. All these it’s possible to do Free & from Taipei using their metro system or hire a private car service. Read More

During my 4 days trip to Taipei, Taiwan last month, I visited Nung Chan Monastery. The monastery is located at Beitou District, Taipei, Taiwan. It is formally in 1975 by Ven. Dongchu, a scholar monk and disciple of renowned Chinese Buddhist Master Taixu. It’s named ‘ Farming Ch’an ‘ as its early residents dedicated themselves to Ch’an practice and grew their own food. (taken from Wikipedia). Read More

*Updated January 2024*

On my latest visit to Taipei, my experience took a unique turn compared to my previous trips. This time, I dedicated half a day to venture beyond Taipei and explore Thousand Island Lake (千島湖) in Shiding. Unlike popular tourist destinations, this hidden gem is not well-known, as evidenced by our private cab driver of 42 years who had never been here before. Interestingly, it has started gaining attention among tourists, particularly after the impact of Covid where everyone is restricted to travelling.
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I am back to Taipei, Taiwan on the last week of December 2018 for a short gateway and visited Fei Qian Wu 肥前屋 for dinner. Fei Qian Wu 肥前屋 is known for its famous unagi don or unadon in Taipei. The restaurant is established over 50 years ago by a Taiwanese-Japanese family. We were there around 4.20pm and started to queue for early dinner. We were 2nd in line and the restaurant is open for dinner at 5pm. So, yeah! We queued for 40 minutes for this. Read More

Lu Rou Fan or we called it Braised Pork Rice 滷肉飯 is listed top Taiwanese cuisine all time. It is a Taiwanese specialty dish that is simple and comforting. Braised pork rice bowl in savoury, rice sauce and drizzled over the rice. Yummy! Our hotel receptionist recommended Huang Ji Braised Pork Rice that is located near to Aloft Hotel Taipei Zhongshan.It is also located next to Qingguang market and 7-eleven convenience store near to the hotel. Read More