Hayashi Department Store - An array of water bottles can be seen on the sidewalk in front of a close tobacco shop. 2025-03-15
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Hayashi Department Store

4.4
·28k reviews·, Taiwan

Step back in time at Hayashi Department Store, Tainan's historic 1930s gem with unique shops and preserved architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Hayashi Department Store - An array of water bottles can be seen on the sidewalk in front of a close tobacco shop. 2025-03-15

Hayashi Department Store

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at Hayashi Department Store, Tainan's historic 1930s gem with unique shops and preserved architecture.

4.4
(28k reviews)

"Very cool historic departmental store and worth checking out."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Socks!

Socks are required to walk around the store. Bring your own or purchase them there.

🚶‍♀️ Take the Stairs

Skip the long elevator queue and enjoy the steep, historic stairs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Elevator

The Historic Elevator

Ground Floor

Ride Taiwan's first department store elevator, a preserved piece of history from 1932. Expect queues!

WWII Bomb Holes

WWII Bomb Holes

Interior Walls

Visible scars from WWII bombings, a poignant reminder of the building's resilience and history.

Rooftop Terrace & Shrine

Rooftop Terrace & Shrine

Top Floor

Enjoy a unique city view and a small Japanese shrine, a peaceful spot to reflect.

Quirky Shops & Local Crafts

Quirky Shops & Local Crafts

All Floors

Discover artistic crafts, unique merchandise, and local Taiwanese food and snacks.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History, Skip the Elevator Queue

This historic gem offers a glimpse into Taiwan's past. While the original elevator is a draw, expect long queues. Opt for the stairs to save time and explore the steep, charming steps. Remember to wear socks for comfort and hygiene when navigating the floors. TikTokReddit

Souvenirs & Sweets: A Shopper's Delight

More than just a department store, Hayashi is a treasure trove of unique crafts and local Taiwanese snacks. Perfect for finding souvenirs, but be prepared for a 'huge souvenir store' feel rather than traditional retail. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

day 3 in Taiwan! TAINAN DAY!🇹🇼 #taiwan #taipei #tainan #foodcrawl #travelvlogs #travelfoodie
@jericafeasts
7.6K likes • 107.1K views

👟 Wear Socks!

Socks are required to walk around the store. Bring your own or purchase them there. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Take the Stairs

Skip the long elevator queue and enjoy the steep, historic stairs. Reddit

Tainan 😍🥲🤤 #taiwan #taiwan🇹🇼 #tainan #travelvlog #tainantaiwan #whatieatinaday #wieiad
@jordanmyr1ck
3.9K likes • 25.7K views
Hayashi Department Store first opened in 1932 during the Japanese Colonial Era. It not only was the first department store with elevator in southern Taiwan, it was also the most popular spot throughout the entire Tainan City. The reconstruction of the building kept most of the original interior designs, from the elevator, the floor materials, the stairways to the rooftop, and even the ceilings. Ev...
filchi_thunder
9 likes • 1.4K views

📸 Rooftop Views

Head to the top floor for a unique perspective and a quiet shrine. InstagramReddit

🎁 Souvenir Hunting

Explore the many shops for unique crafts and local Taiwanese snacks. Reddit

Step inside one of Tainan’s most iconic heritage spot! Ride one of Taiwan’s first elevators, sip coffee at Hayashi Café, and uncover WWII bomb holes frozen in time. Would you explore this time-traveling department store? 🕰️ 📌 Save this for your Taiwan trip! #TaraLakwatsa #Tainan #HayashiDepartmentStore #taiwan #taiwantravel #travel #history
lakwatserio
0 likes • 297 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Socks!

Socks are required to walk around the store. Bring your own or purchase them there. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Take the Stairs

Skip the long elevator queue and enjoy the steep, historic stairs. Reddit

📸 Rooftop Views

Head to the top floor for a unique perspective and a quiet shrine. InstagramReddit

🎁 Souvenir Hunting

Explore the many shops for unique crafts and local Taiwanese snacks. Reddit

☕ Cafe Break

Enjoy a coffee and treats at the charming cafe on the top floor. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(28k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Hayashi Department Store for its rich history, well-preserved architecture, and unique shopping experience, calling it a must-visit in Tainan. While the historic elevator is a highlight, the long queues often lead people to recommend using the stairs. The rooftop offers a pleasant, though not spectacular, view.

"Very cool historic departmental store and worth checking out. Recommend taking the elevator to the top and check out the roof before working your way down. We had a lovely view of the sunset from the roof top. The departmental store had lots of interesting items and worth spending plenty of time there. We got some earrings there and some tile coasters. Very happy with the purchase and the experience."

Edwin Kwan

"This is a very historic old building but also has a cool set of small shops inside it. There is a big queue to use the elevator, and it's tiny, so just take the stairs. Speaking of the stairs, they are very steep! The cafe at the top is cool and has some tasty treats on the menu for reasonable prices."

Alistair Drake

"One of the oldest department store in Taiwan with history that can be traced back to the Japanese occupation era. I'm glad the city decided to renovate the building and preserve its own heritage.

The building is aesthetically pleasing, and lots of its old features inside were preserved, like the elevator and floorings. The interior design feels like a mix of old school and modern vibes. I highly recommend at least checking out the terrace on the top floor. It's neatly designed but unfortunately doesn't provide a very good city view. There's also a Japanese shrine up there.

Even tho its titled as a department store it feels more like a huge souvenir store, the items sold inside are mostly artistic crafts and souvenirs of all kinds.

Still, I recommend checking it out if you're in Tainan. Undoubtedly a pretty cool place to explore."

Yuhng Yeap

What People Like

Historic architecture
Unique souvenirs
Preserved heritage

What People Dislike

Long elevator queues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hayashi Department Store is located at No. 123, Yanzhong St, Yongkang District, Tainan City. It's easily accessible by public transport. Many visitors arrive by bus or taxi. If you're exploring Tainan, it's also a pleasant walk from other historical sites in the area. TikTok

While specific parking details can vary, Tainan has several public parking lots. It's advisable to check local parking apps or signs upon arrival. Cycling is also a popular and convenient way to get around Tainan. Instagram

The area around Hayashi Department Store is rich in history. Many visitors combine a visit with other historical sites like Fort Provintia, Fort Zeelandia, and the Anping Tree House. Renting a bike or using local buses are great options. InstagramReddit

While the building has been renovated, accessibility for wheelchairs might be limited due to its historic nature and the presence of steep stairs. It's recommended to contact the store directly for the most up-to-date information on accessibility. Reddit

The walk from Tainan Train Station to Hayashi Department Store is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace. It's a pleasant walk through the city, allowing you to see more of Tainan along the way. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is a very reasonable 90 NTD, making it an affordable historical exploration. TikTok

Hours can vary slightly, but generally, it's open Wednesday to Friday from 11 AM to 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM. On Saturdays and Sundays, it's open from 11 AM to 3 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. TikTok

No, advance booking is typically not required for general entry. You can purchase tickets upon arrival. TikTok

While there isn't a strict dress code, visitors are required to wear socks inside the store for hygiene and to protect the historic flooring. TikTok

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Hayashi Department Store, allowing you to capture its unique architecture and atmosphere. Instagram

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Experience

Hayashi Department Store is filled with unique artistic crafts, local Taiwanese snacks, souvenirs, and various quirky merchandise. It's more of a curated souvenir shop than a traditional department store. Reddit

The elevator is a historic feature and Taiwan's first in a department store, but queues can be very long. Many visitors recommend taking the stairs instead to save time and experience the building's charm. TikTokReddit

The bomb holes are visible remnants from WWII bombings, a stark reminder of the building's history and resilience. They are a unique historical feature preserved within the store. Instagram+1

Yes, there is a charming cafe on the top floor offering tasty treats and coffee, providing a nostalgic atmosphere. InstagramReddit

Many visitors recommend starting from the top floor and working your way down. The rooftop terrace offers a unique view, and each floor has its own collection of shops and historical elements to discover. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The historic elevator, the preserved interior architecture with its mix of old and new vibes, the WWII bomb holes, and the rooftop terrace are all excellent photo opportunities. The unique merchandise also makes for interesting shots. InstagramReddit+1

Crowds can be a factor, especially around the elevator. Visiting on a weekday afternoon or early morning can help you get clearer shots. Be patient and look for unique angles. TikTok

Absolutely! Look for the original floor materials, the art deco design elements, the intricate details of the elevator, and the preserved staircases. The contrast between the historic structure and the modern goods sold inside is also photogenic. Instagram+1

Late afternoon can be lovely for capturing the ambiance, especially if you can catch the sunset from the rooftop. However, any time you visit, the interior lighting and architectural features offer great photographic potential. Reddit

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to check with the store staff upon arrival to ensure you comply with any regulations regarding tripods, especially during busy periods. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hayashi Department Store offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The historic elevator is a fun novelty for children, though be mindful of potential wait times. The variety of quirky shops selling colorful crafts and snacks can keep younger visitors entertained. Encourage them to spot the WWII bomb holes as a history lesson. TikTokInstagram

Consider visiting during weekday afternoons to avoid the largest crowds. The cafe on the top floor is a great spot for a family break, and the rooftop terrace offers a safe space for kids to look out over the city. Remember to bring or purchase socks as they are required for everyone inside. TikTokReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Hayashi Department Store is incredibly budget-friendly. The entrance fee of 90 NTD is a small price for the historical immersion and shopping opportunities. TikTok While the shops offer unique items, you can find affordable local snacks and souvenirs if you browse carefully. Reddit

Opting to take the stairs instead of the elevator saves you time and is free. The cafe on the top floor offers reasonably priced treats, making it a good spot for a budget-friendly snack or coffee. Reddit Exploring the building itself is a rewarding experience that costs very little.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This historic building is a photographer's dream. Capture the iconic 1930s architecture, the preserved interior details like the flooring and staircases, and the unique WWII bomb holes. The historic elevator is a must-shoot, but be patient for a clear shot. InstagramReddit+1

Head to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views and a chance to photograph the small Japanese shrine. The variety of merchandise in the shops also provides interesting subjects. Visiting during late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting, especially from the rooftop. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Step Back in Time: The History of Hayashi Department Store

Hayashi Department Store, originally opened in 1932 during Taiwan's Japanese colonial era, holds a significant place in Tainan's history. It was not only the first department store in southern Taiwan to feature an elevator but also a bustling hub of commerce and culture. Its art deco architecture and five stories made it a landmark of modernity at the time. Instagram+1

During World War II, the building sustained damage from bombings, and evidence of these events, such as WWII bomb holes, are still visible today, adding a layer of poignant history to its walls. After years of neglect, the store was meticulously renovated and reopened in 2014, preserving its original charm while adapting it for contemporary visitors. InstagramReddit+1

Today, Hayashi Department Store stands as a testament to Tainan's rich heritage. It successfully blends its historical significance with a vibrant retail experience, offering a unique glimpse into the past for all who visit. The preservation efforts ensure that this iconic building continues to be a beloved attraction. InstagramReddit

Navigating the Floors: What to Expect Inside

Hayashi Department Store is a multi-story experience, with each floor offering something different. While the historic elevator is a major draw, be prepared for potentially long queues. Many visitors find that taking the steep stairs is a more efficient and equally charming way to explore the building's levels. Remember to wear socks as they are required for walking on the floors. TikTokReddit

The store is best described as a curated collection of shops rather than a traditional department store. You'll find a wide array of artistic crafts, unique merchandise, and local Taiwanese snacks. It's an ideal place to hunt for souvenirs that reflect Tainan's culture and creativity. Reddit

Don't miss the cafe on the top floor, which offers a nostalgic atmosphere and a chance to relax with a coffee and some treats. The rooftop terrace also provides a unique vantage point for city views and features a small Japanese shrine, offering a moment of tranquility. InstagramReddit+1