Yancheng District (Old Town) - Image 1
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Yancheng District Old Town Kaohsiung Taiwan

3.9
·267 reviews·, Taiwan

Step back in time in Yancheng Old Town, exploring the historic Thief Market for unique snacks, vintage finds, and nostalgic charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Most shops open, vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Yancheng District (Old Town) - Image 1

Yancheng District Old Town Kaohsiung Taiwan

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Most shops open, vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Yancheng Old Town, exploring the historic Thief Market for unique snacks, vintage finds, and nostalgic charm.

3.9
(267 reviews)

"A place steeped in history and human warmth, offering a crucial window into Kaohsiung's past."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Avoid Mondays

Many shops are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit for another day to see the market in full swing.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Alleys

Wander off the main street to discover hidden gems and unique photo opportunities.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thief Market Treasures

Thief Market Treasures

Zeizai Market (Thief Market)

Hunt for imported snacks, traditional skincare, and vintage clothing in this historic market.

Reddit
Nostalgic Architecture

Nostalgic Architecture

Yancheng Old Town streets

Wander through alleys with preserved terrazzo floors and iron roll-up doors, a step back in time.

Reddit
Local Delicacies

Local Delicacies

Near Zeizai Market

Savor unique drinks like Grandma's Mixed Tea and traditional snacks like Sun's Meat Zongzi.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Thief Market

Many shops in Yancheng Old Town's Thief Market are closed on Mondays and may have limited hours on weekday afternoons. For the best experience and to see most vendors open, plan your visit for the afternoon until just before dinner. This ensures you catch the vibrant atmosphere and a wider selection of imported goods and local snacks. Reddit

Embrace the Nostalgia

Yancheng Old Town, particularly the Thief Market, is a journey back in time. Expect preserved terrazzo floors and iron roll-up doors, creating a unique, dimly lit atmosphere. While some shops have closed, the historical charm remains, offering a glimpse into Kaohsiung's past as a bustling port trading center. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Most shops open, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Busiest time for local shoppers
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @ralpcruz_ My Taiwan Itinerary 😊 #taiwan #taiwantravel #taiwanitinerary #taipei #kaohsiung #taichung #sunmoonlake #alishan #cijinkaohsiung #travelitinerary
@jeffgochua
10.7K likes • 329.1K views

🎯 Avoid Mondays

Many shops are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit for another day to see the market in full swing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Alleys

Wander off the main street to discover hidden gems and unique photo opportunities. Reddit

✨8 Bucket List Things To Do In Taiwan - Kaohsiung Edition 🇹🇼 #taiwan🇹🇼 #taiwantiktok #thingstodo #taiwantravel #taiwan #travelguide #taiwantrip #taiwanfood #travelforfood #creatorsearchinsights
@hungrypursuit
5.7K likes • 173.9K views
這兩位愛吃的女人、為了要吃我做的蛋黃酥、七早八早就從楠梓跑到鹽埕區、
m0928395355
5 likes • 0 views

🛍️ Hunt for Imported Goods

Xinyi Department Store is a must-visit for a wide selection of imported Japanese snacks. Reddit

MRT is Convenient

Take the MRT to Yanchengpu Station for easy access to the old town. Reddit

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Good areas in Kaohsiung

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Avoid Mondays

Many shops are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit for another day to see the market in full swing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Alleys

Wander off the main street to discover hidden gems and unique photo opportunities. Reddit

🛍️ Hunt for Imported Goods

Xinyi Department Store is a must-visit for a wide selection of imported Japanese snacks. Reddit

MRT is Convenient

Take the MRT to Yanchengpu Station for easy access to the old town. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(267 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Yancheng Old Town's Thief Market a charming step back in time, appreciating its historical architecture and unique shops selling imported goods and traditional snacks. While some note that many shops are closed on Mondays or have limited afternoon hours on weekdays, the nostalgic atmosphere and local culinary finds are consistently praised. Reddit

"Went on a monday so alot of shops were closed. Lots of clothing stores and some snacks stores"

Joe DM

"Good"

紅豆泥

"The Thief Market on Yancheng Old Street is a place steeped in history and nostalgia, bearing witness to the commercial prosperity and transformation of the Kaohsiung Port Area. This guided tour will take you on an in-depth exploration of this unique market and provide practical information about the surrounding area.

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Highlights



@. Historical Background: From the Japanese colonial period to the postwar period, it served as a trading center for imported goods, earning its name from the smuggling of goods by sailors and the sale of stolen goods by thieves.

@. Origin of the Name: Two theories: 1. It was a place where thieves sold stolen goods; 2. It was a place where veterans sold their belongings, which were mistaken for stolen goods.

@. Current Features: Imported foods, traditional snacks, long-established skincare products, and ready-to-wear clothing are sold, while preserving the architectural style of the old market.

@. Recommended Shops: Xinyi Department Store (imported snacks), long-established skincare shops, and nearby snacks such as Grandma's Mixed Tea, Sun's Rice Dumplings, and Aloha Braised Food.

@. Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to before dinner (when most shops are open).

Nearby Attractions: Dagouding Shopping District, Kaohsiung Museum of History, Pier-2 Art Center.

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###📍Location and Transportation

Zeizai Market is located at Lane 27, Fuye Road, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City, near the intersection of Fuye Road and Dayong Road, behind the Kaohsiung Museum of History. You can get there by:

@· Public Transportation: Take the Kaohsiung MRT to Yanchengpu Station, then walk from Exit 2 for about 4-5 minutes.

@· On Your Own: Paid parking is available nearby, but walking is recommended to better experience the old street atmosphere.

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###🏮 Market Features and History

Architecture and Atmosphere



Entering Zeizai Market, you're immediately captivated by its nostalgic atmosphere. The terrazzo floors and iron roll-up shop doors are preserved, and the buildings are dimly lit, giving the impression of stepping back in time. The market is a shopping street less than 200 meters long, connecting Fuye Road and the main highway. Although some shops have closed, the overall atmosphere of the old market remains.

Historical Background



Zeizai Market's history dates back to the Japanese colonial period. At that time, Yancheng District, due to its proximity to Kaohsiung Port, became a prominent commercial area. Sailors would bring smuggled imported goods here to sell, creating a unique trading market. The convenient and concealed nature of the market also made it a popular spot for thieves to sell their stolen goods, earning it the name "Zeizai Market." In its heyday, Zeizai Market was as prosperous as the old Horie shopping district.

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###🛍️ Shopping and Exploration Highlights

Treasure Hunt in Old Shops


In Zeizai Market, you can find many shops that have been operating for decades:

@· Xinyi Department Store (45-4 Fuye Road): Specializes in imported snacks, with a selection of Japanese rice crackers and cookies that will evoke childhood memories.

@· Established Skincare Shop: Sells traditional soaps, facial cleansers, and other products, and these time-honored brands have a loyal customer base.
· Clothing and fabric stores: Preserving their historic charm, find traditional clothing materials.

Specialty Products



@· Imported Japanese Foods: Includes a variety of rice crackers, biscuits, seasonings, and more.

@· Traditional Taiwanese Snacks: Nostalgic Taiwanese candies and biscuits, perfect for reminiscing about childhood.

@· Traditional Skincare Products: Products like traditional soaps and facial cleansers have a loyal following.

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🍜 Nearby Food Recommendations



There are many Yancheng District restaurants worth trying near Zeizai City:

@. Grandma's Mixed Tea (No. 131, Dayong Road, in front of the Land Bank): A specialty drink combining lemon juice, kumquat juice, winter melon tea, marble soda, and plum tea, perfect for quenching thirst.

@. Sun's Meat Zongzi (No. 6, Lane 151, Daren Road): Founded in 1953, this shop serves soft, glutinous, and delicious southern-style boiled rice dumplings.

@. Aloha Braised Food (No. 154, Daren Road): A 60-year-old establishment, its signature duck tendon sausage (chewing gum) and duck tongue are popular.

@. Dagouding Cuisine: Traditional snacks such as milkfish rice noodles, bowl cakes, and madou bowl cakes.

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###🚶 Nearby Attractions

@. Dagouding Shopping District: Originally a shopping street built over the Love River drainage ditch, it now houses a variety of snacks and traditional shops.

@. Kaohsiung Museum of History: Housed in the former Kaohsiung City Hall, this imperial-style building offers insights into Kaohsiung's development.

@. Pier-2 Art Center: A cultural and creative park converted from an old warehouse, it frequently hosts exhibitions and events.

@. Lingjia Ancient House and Gugu Stone House: Traditional buildings hidden in the alleys surrounding the Zeizi Market bear witness to Yancheng's history.

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💎Ziezai Market is more than just a place for shopping; it's a space steeped in history and human warmth. It's a testament to Yancheng District's rise from prosperity to decline and cultural rebirth, offering a crucial window into Kaohsiung's history. Whether you're searching for nostalgic finds or simply want to experience the atmosphere of an old market, Ziezai Market offers a unique experience.

"

黃大福

What People Like

Nostalgic atmosphere
Unique imported snacks
Historic architecture

What People Dislike

Shops closed on Mondays
Limited weekday afternoon hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Yancheng Old Town is by taking the Kaohsiung MRT to Yanchengpu Station. From Exit 2, it's about a 4-5 minute walk to the Zeizai Market area. Reddit Paid parking is available nearby if you're driving, but walking is recommended to soak in the old street atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, Yancheng Old Town is very accessible by public transport. The Kaohsiung MRT's Yanchengpu Station is conveniently located nearby, making it a breeze to get there without a car. Reddit

Walking is the best way to explore Yancheng Old Town and its Thief Market. This allows you to fully appreciate the nostalgic atmosphere, discover hidden alleys, and pop into the various shops at your own pace. Reddit

Yes, there are paid parking lots available near Yancheng Old Town. However, given the narrow streets and the desire to experience the old town's charm, many visitors opt for public transportation and then explore on foot. Reddit

Absolutely! Kaohsiung's MRT system connects most major areas, so you can easily reach Yancheng Old Town from other districts or attractions using the subway. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Yancheng Old Town or the Zeizai Market. It's a public area meant for exploration and shopping. Reddit

Yancheng Old Town itself is always accessible, but individual shops within the Thief Market have varying hours. Most shops are open from the afternoon until early evening, with many closing by dinner time. It's best to visit in the afternoon to ensure most vendors are open. Reddit

Yes, it's important to note that many shops in the Thief Market are closed on Mondays. Weekday afternoons can also see fewer vendors open compared to weekends. Reddit

The Zeizai Market, also known as the Thief Market, does not have an admission fee. You can freely wander through the market and browse the shops. Reddit

The best time to visit the Zeizai Market is in the afternoon, ideally from around 2 PM until before dinner. This is when most of the shops selling imported foods, skincare, and clothing are open. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & What to Buy

Yancheng Old Town's Thief Market is known for its unique mix of shops selling imported Japanese snacks, traditional Taiwanese candies, long-established skincare products, and ready-to-wear clothing. You can also find vintage items and local crafts. Reddit

Don't miss the imported Japanese snacks at Xinyi Department Store, traditional skincare products from established brands, and nostalgic Taiwanese candies. You might also find unique clothing or fabric items. Reddit

Yes, Xinyi Department Store is highly recommended for its wide array of imported snacks. Look out for long-established skincare shops as well, which have a loyal following for their traditional products. Reddit

While not a typical souvenir market, you can find unique items like imported snacks, traditional Taiwanese sweets, and handcrafted goods that make for great, authentic souvenirs. Reddit

Yes, you can find clothing and fabric stores that preserve the historic charm of the old market. While not a high-fashion district, it offers a chance to find unique, perhaps vintage-inspired, pieces. Reddit

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

Near Zeizai Market, you must try Grandma's Mixed Tea, a refreshing blend of juices and teas. Also, sample Sun's Meat Zongzi (rice dumplings) and Aloha Braised Food, known for its duck tendon and tongue. Reddit

While the Thief Market itself focuses on snacks and imported goods, the surrounding Yancheng District has many eateries. You can find traditional snacks like milkfish rice noodles and bowl cakes, as well as braised dishes. Reddit

Grandma's Mixed Tea is a unique specialty drink found near Zeizai Market, combining ingredients like lemon juice, kumquat juice, winter melon tea, marble soda, and plum tea for a thirst-quenching experience. Reddit

Look for places like Sun's Meat Zongzi for delicious southern-style rice dumplings and Aloha Braised Food for popular braised items. Dagouding Cuisine also offers traditional snacks. Reddit

Yes, Yancheng Old Town and its surroundings are great for foodies looking to try authentic Taiwanese snacks and unique local beverages. The area offers a taste of Kaohsiung's culinary heritage. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The narrow alleys with their preserved terrazzo floors and iron roll-up doors offer a nostalgic and atmospheric backdrop. Look for the dimly lit interiors of old shops and unique architectural details. Reddit

Absolutely! The old architecture, the unique market atmosphere, and the hidden alleys provide plenty of opportunities for striking and atmospheric photographs. Reddit

Late afternoon, as the light starts to soften and the market lights begin to glow, can create a magical atmosphere. The dimly lit interiors also lend themselves to moody shots. Reddit

The very act of wandering through the alleys, perhaps with a slightly clandestine feel, can be a photographic theme. The preserved architecture itself tells the story of the market's past. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wider street scenes and details. A prime lens with a wide aperture can be great for low-light shots inside shops. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yancheng Old Town can be an interesting outing for families, especially if you focus on the food and the unique atmosphere. The Thief Market offers a chance for kids to try new snacks and perhaps find some interesting imported treats. The historical architecture, with its old-fashioned shops, can spark their imagination about what life was like in the past. Reddit

Consider visiting in the afternoon when most shops are open and the energy is higher. While it's not a playground, the novelty of the old market and the nearby Pier-2 Art Center (which often has interactive exhibits) can make for a fun family excursion. Keep in mind that some areas might be crowded, so holding hands is advisable. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Yancheng Old Town is a fantastic destination for budget travelers. Entry to the Thief Market and the old town itself is free, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere without spending a dime. Shopping for unique items like imported snacks or traditional sweets can be done affordably, with many items priced reasonably. Reddit

Eating in the area is also budget-friendly. You can enjoy delicious and filling local snacks like meat zongzi or braised dishes for just a few dollars. Utilizing the Kaohsiung MRT to get there is also an economical way to travel, making the entire experience very cost-effective. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Yancheng Old Town offers a wealth of atmospheric shots. The preserved architecture, with its terrazzo floors and iron roll-up doors, creates a unique, nostalgic aesthetic. The dimly lit interiors of the shops provide opportunities for moody, characterful images. Reddit

Explore the narrow alleys for interesting compositions and textures. The late afternoon light can be particularly beautiful, casting a warm glow and enhancing the vintage feel. Don't forget to capture the vibrant food stalls and the details of the imported goods for a well-rounded portfolio of this historic district. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Charm of the Thief Market

Yancheng Old Town's Zeizai Market, or 'Thief Market,' is a place steeped in history, dating back to the Japanese colonial period. Its name originates from two theories: either it was a place where thieves sold stolen goods, or veterans sold their belongings which were mistaken for stolen items. Due to its proximity to Kaohsiung Port, it became a hub for trading smuggled imported goods, fostering a unique commercial environment. Reddit

The market's architecture reflects its past, with preserved terrazzo floors and iron roll-up shop doors contributing to a nostalgic, dimly lit atmosphere. Although some shops have closed over time, the overall character of the old market remains, offering visitors a tangible connection to Kaohsiung's prosperous port era. Wandering through its less than 200-meter stretch feels like stepping back in time. Reddit

Today, the market continues to thrive by selling imported foods, traditional snacks, and long-established skincare products, all while maintaining its historic architectural style. It's a testament to Yancheng District's journey through prosperity, decline, and cultural rebirth, providing a crucial window into Kaohsiung's past. Reddit

Shopping and Culinary Delights

The Zeizai Market is a treasure trove for shoppers seeking unique items. Xinyi Department Store is a standout for its extensive selection of imported Japanese snacks, perfect for a taste of nostalgia or a unique gift. Alongside these, you'll find established skincare shops selling traditional soaps and facial cleansers that have garnered a loyal customer base over decades. Reddit

Beyond imported goods, the market offers a glimpse into traditional Taiwanese culinary heritage. Look for nostalgic Taiwanese candies and biscuits that evoke childhood memories. The surrounding Yancheng District also boasts a vibrant food scene. Don't miss Grandma's Mixed Tea, a refreshing and complex beverage, or the delicious southern-style Sun's Meat Zongzi. For adventurous eaters, Aloha Braised Food offers popular items like duck tendon and duck tongue. Reddit

Exploring Yancheng Old Town is an experience for all senses. The combination of historical ambiance, unique shopping finds, and delicious local food makes it a must-visit destination for those wanting to experience authentic Kaohsiung. Reddit

Exploring Nearby Attractions

Yancheng Old Town is conveniently located near several other significant Kaohsiung attractions, making it easy to combine into a day of exploration. The Dagouding Shopping District, once a bustling street built over a drainage ditch, now offers a variety of snacks and traditional shops, providing a different flavor of local commerce. Reddit

For those interested in history and culture, the Kaohsiung Museum of History, housed in the former city hall, offers insights into the city's development. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Pier-2 Art Center, a creative hub transformed from old warehouses, frequently hosting exhibitions and events. Reddit

For a deeper dive into local history, seek out the Lingjia Ancient House and Gugu Stone House, traditional buildings tucked away in the alleys surrounding the Zeizi Market, which stand as silent witnesses to Yancheng's past. These nearby sites complement the historical experience of Yancheng Old Town, offering a well-rounded cultural immersion. Reddit

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