Shopper's Paradise

Taiwan provides a variety of shopping options, ranging from markets to malls, with something to fit every budget. Because Taiwan is a cash society, most purchases should be made in cash, as many stores either do not take credit cards or demand a high surcharge for them. Taiwan is famed for its economical and fascinating shopping, with clothes, shoes, laptops, jade, and tea among the most popular products purchased by travelers.

Taiwan's trendy retail districts and malls are on the other extreme of the spectrum. Dream Mall is Taiwan's largest mall, with nine stories and three basement floors of shops, famous name department stores, movie theaters, restaurants, a gym, and even a Ferris wheel. The iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper is one of Taiwan's most well-known malls, and it's the place to go for elegant eating or shopping for designer labels, high-end apparel, and beauty items. Taichung Central Mall has about 300 stores as well as a SEGA amusement center, a fitness center, movie theaters, restaurants, and cafes.

Out of the malls and away from the markets, Taiwan has several trendy shopping streets where shoppers can people-watch or arrange a wardrobe upgrade. The neon streets of Taipei’s Ximending District have been compared to Japan’s Harajyuku and are known as the area in Taiwan from which trends originate. Bustling Yizhong Street is the most popular shopping district in Taichung city, particularly amongst young people.