Shilin Night Market Travel Guide
Welcome to the vibrant city of Taipei, home to one of the largest and most famous night markets in Taiwan - the Shilin Night Market.
Getting to Shilin Night Market
By MRT (Metro/Subway)
The easiest way to reach Shilin Night Market is by taking the Taipei Metro. Follow these simple steps:
- Board the Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line)
- Get off at the Jiantan Station, rather than the Shilin Station, as it is closer to the night market.
- Exit the station via Exit 1 and follow the crowds along Jihe Road.
The market is just a short walk from the station and is easily recognizable by its bustling streets and colorful lights.
By Bus
Taipei has an extensive bus system, which can be used to get to Shilin Night Market as well:
- Find a bus that stops at the Shilin Night Market or Yangming Theatre stop.
- Some bus numbers that you can take include: 203, 204, 218, 220, 260, 277, 279, 280, 285, 287, 606, 612, 645, 646, 665, and more.
Please note that the bus system can be a bit more complex for visitors, so you might prefer the MRT for your convenience.
By Taxi
Taxis in Taipei are plentiful, clean, and safe. You can hail a taxi from anywhere in the city:
- Tell the driver you want to go to "Shilin Night Market" which is "士林夜市" in Mandarin.
- Be aware that during rush hour or on weekends, traffic can be heavy and may affect travel time and cost.
By Car or Scooter
If you choose to drive or ride a scooter:
- Parking can be difficult to find near the market due to high congestion.
- Look for paid parking lots in the area if street parking isn't available.
- Be prepared for heavy traffic and take extra care as night markets are very busy with both pedestrians and scooters.
Additional Tips
- The night market starts to get busy around 5 PM and stays open late into the night, with some stalls operating until 2 AM.
- It's a good idea to have some cash on you, as not every vendor accepts credit cards.
- Don't forget to try some of the famous local snacks, such as stinky tofu, bubble tea, and oyster omelets!
Enjoy your visit to the bustling Shilin Night Market and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and delicious street food that Taipei has to offer!