Taichung Second Market
A historic 1917 market brimming with legendary Taiwanese food stalls, offering an authentic taste of local life and culinary heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience local life
Taichung Second Market
Best Time
Experience local life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1917 market brimming with legendary Taiwanese food stalls, offering an authentic taste of local life and culinary heritage.
"A must-visit for authentic Taiwanese food, this historic market is a culinary treasure trove."
🎯 Arrive Early for Breakfast
Many legendary breakfast stalls open early. Beat the rush and enjoy a quieter experience! :coffee:
🍜 Be Prepared to Queue
Famous stalls like Arashi Braised Pork Rice can have lines. Patience is rewarded with delicious food! :hourglass:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arashi Braised Pork Rice Bowl
Famous stall
A legendary dish with tender braised pork over rice, a must-try for its rich flavor.
Sesame Dressing Noodles
Various stalls
Creamy, nutty, and utterly satisfying noodles that are a staple of Taiwanese breakfast.
Traditional Taiwanese Breakfast
Breakfast stalls
Savor delights like taro fried, egg pancakes, and dim sum noodles for an authentic morning meal.
Local Produce and Dry Goods
Market aisles
Explore a vibrant array of fresh produce, dried ingredients, and local specialties.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Authentic Flavors
A Culinary Time Capsule
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Breakfast
Many legendary breakfast stalls open early. Beat the rush and enjoy a quieter experience! :coffee:
🍜 Be Prepared to Queue
Famous stalls like Arashi Braised Pork Rice can have lines. Patience is rewarded with delicious food! :hourglass:
💰 Cash is King
Most vendors prefer cash, so have small bills ready for your food adventures. :moneywithwings:
🚶 Explore Beyond the Food
Discover fresh produce, dry goods, and even a small shrine within the market. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Breakfast
Many legendary breakfast stalls open early. Beat the rush and enjoy a quieter experience! :coffee:
🍜 Be Prepared to Queue
Famous stalls like Arashi Braised Pork Rice can have lines. Patience is rewarded with delicious food! :hourglass:
💰 Cash is King
Most vendors prefer cash, so have small bills ready for your food adventures. :moneywithwings:
🚶 Explore Beyond the Food
Discover fresh produce, dry goods, and even a small shrine within the market. :world_map:
📸 Capture the Atmosphere
The market's historic architecture and vibrant stalls make for great photos. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Taichung Second Market as a must-visit for authentic Taiwanese food and a glimpse into local life. Many highlight the legendary dishes and the historic atmosphere, though some note that certain stalls can be crowded and may close early, especially on weekends.
"Taichung 2nd Market.
Not as 2nd preloved item market. But it was like tradiitional old market that being built as 2nd one.
A lot of stalls are old and legendary one here.
You wont miss a hit here wherever you sit order you might be surprised with the level of food here.
Famous one will be Arashi Braised Pork Rice Bowl, Sesame Dressing noodle, typical taiwanese breakfast (taro fried, egg pancake) and of course dimsum noodle.
There is a little shrine as well inside.
Spend time here and you will get your stomach full.
Really recommended."
Yan Putra
"This local market is very interesting. You can find good food with great quality in here from local dumplings, milktea to premium sushi.
In the middle of the market, there is an exhibition which exhibits the whole market infrastructure in its mini version and some historical artifacts."
Triet Le
"Nice market with a mix of local fare - fresh vegetables, fish, dried food, towels, sushi, local Taiwanese delicacies. There is a very famous stall with Taiwan braised pork rice but be prepared to queue."
Joshua Soo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is easily accessible by public transport. From Taichung Station, it's a short bus ride or a pleasant walk. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with other Taichung attractions.
Parking can be challenging in the central district. It's recommended to use public transportation or taxis. If driving, look for nearby public parking lots.
Yes, it's about a 15-20 minute walk from Taichung Station, offering a chance to see more of the city.
Ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Taichung and can be a convenient way to reach the market, especially if you're coming from further afield.
Buses are a primary mode of transport. Consider purchasing an EasyCard for convenient tap-and-go payments on buses and other public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Taichung Second Market is free. You only pay for the delicious food and goods you purchase.
The market generally operates from early morning until late afternoon, with many stalls closing around 2-3 PM. Some breakfast vendors open very early. It's best to visit before 2 PM to see most stalls open.
Yes, the market is open on weekends, but it can be significantly more crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience, weekdays are better.
The market is typically closed on Mondays. Always double-check local listings or ask locals if you're unsure about specific holiday closures.
Yes, many day tours of Taichung include a stop at the Second Market, offering a convenient way to experience it along with other attractions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss the legendary Arashi Braised Pork Rice Bowl, sesame dressing noodles, traditional Taiwanese breakfast items like taro fried and egg pancakes, and dim sum noodles.
While many dishes feature meat, you can often find vegetable-centric options like fresh produce, some noodle dishes with vegetable toppings, and potentially some fried items. It's best to ask vendors directly.
Food prices are generally very affordable, typical of a traditional Taiwanese market. Expect to spend between NT$50-NT$150 for most dishes.
Yes, you can find various local drinks, including traditional milk tea and fresh juices, at several stalls within the market.
Absolutely! The market is renowned for its authentic, traditional Taiwanese cuisine, with many vendors having long-standing reputations.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant stalls, the historic architecture, the bustling crowds, and of course, the delicious food. The entrance and interior aisles offer great photographic opportunities.
It's generally acceptable to take photos, but it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-ups of vendors or their products, especially if they are busy.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the market's atmosphere. However, the vibrant energy during peak lunch hours also makes for dynamic shots.
Look for the market's signage, the various food stalls with their colorful displays, and any historical elements that hint at its long past.
Drone usage is generally restricted in public market areas due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to avoid using drones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning when it's less crowded and more manageable with little ones. The variety of sights and smells can be a sensory adventure. Encourage kids to try new flavors, and remember to bring cash for easy purchases. The market's central location also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly attractions in Taichung.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on the local specialties and avoid the more tourist-oriented stalls if you're on a tight budget. Many vendors offer generous portions, so you can often share dishes or have a satisfying meal from a single stall. It's the perfect place to experience local culture and cuisine economically.
🍜 Food Enthusiasts
Come with an open mind and an empty stomach. Explore the different stalls, try a variety of dishes, and savor the authentic flavors. The market offers a genuine culinary journey, showcasing the heart of Taichung's food scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of History: The Market's Origins
+1Today, the market retains much of its historic charm, with many stalls operated by families who have been there for generations. Walking through its aisles is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into traditional Taiwanese commerce and culinary practices. The architecture itself, though modernized in parts, still hints at its colonial past.
Beyond its role as a food destination, the market also houses a small exhibition detailing its history and infrastructure, complete with miniature models and historical artifacts. This adds another layer of appreciation for visitors interested in the market's heritage.
Culinary Delights: What to Eat
For breakfast, the market excels with traditional options like taro fried, egg pancakes, and various dim sum noodles. These dishes provide a genuine taste of Taiwanese morning cuisine. Don't forget to explore stalls offering fresh produce, dried goods, and local snacks.
+1Beyond these famous items, you can also find local delicacies like dumplings, milk tea, and even premium sushi at some stalls. The variety ensures there's something to please every palate, making it a perfect spot for a culinary adventure.
Navigating the Market: Tips for Visitors
Be prepared for queues at the most famous food stalls; patience is key to enjoying these culinary highlights. It's also advisable to carry cash, as many vendors prefer it for transactions. This will make your ordering process smoother.
While exploring, take your time to wander through all the sections. Beyond the food, you'll find fresh produce, dried ingredients, and other local goods. The market's layout is relatively straightforward, but its vibrant energy can be captivating, so allow ample time to soak it all in.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit