Huaxi Street Night Market Taipei
Taipei's historic 'Snake Alley' now offers authentic local eats and a relaxed vibe, with nearby temples and massage parlors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Market buzzes to life
Huaxi Street Night Market Taipei
Best Time
Market buzzes to life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Taipei's historic 'Snake Alley' now offers authentic local eats and a relaxed vibe, with nearby temples and massage parlors.
"This place has many massage parlours and some food stalls in the 1st section, and if you walked further inwards and crossed the road, you will come to the food section where you will find a lot of food stalls."
🎯 Arrive by 6-7 PM for Food
Food stalls often close by 10 PM, so aim for earlier evening to enjoy the full culinary experience.
💆♀️ Explore Massage Parlors
Beyond food, discover numerous massage and beauty services. Check reviews for the best options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wang's Broth
Food section
Michelin-recommended braised pork rice that's a local favorite. A true taste of authentic Taiwanese cuisine.
Yuan Fang Guabao
Food section
Famous for its steamed buns, offering a delightful and satisfying bite. A must-try for bao lovers.
Lungshan Temple Proximity
Adjacent to the market
Visit this historic and beautiful temple for a cultural immersion before or after exploring the market.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Huaxi Street
Beyond the Food Stalls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive by 6-7 PM for Food
Food stalls often close by 10 PM, so aim for earlier evening to enjoy the full culinary experience.
💆♀️ Explore Massage Parlors
Beyond food, discover numerous massage and beauty services. Check reviews for the best options.
🚶♀️ Combine with Lungshan Temple
Visit the nearby Lungshan Temple for a cultural experience before or after your market visit.
💰 Local Prices
Enjoy delicious meals at reasonable prices, even at Michelin-recommended spots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive by 6-7 PM for Food
Food stalls often close by 10 PM, so aim for earlier evening to enjoy the full culinary experience.
💆♀️ Explore Massage Parlors
Beyond food, discover numerous massage and beauty services. Check reviews for the best options.
🚶♀️ Combine with Lungshan Temple
Visit the nearby Lungshan Temple for a cultural experience before or after your market visit.
💰 Local Prices
Enjoy delicious meals at reasonable prices, even at Michelin-recommended spots.
🧐 Check Google Maps Popular Times
Use Google Maps to gauge crowd levels and opening times for a smoother visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Huaxi Street Night Market offers a more local and less crowded experience compared to other Taipei night markets. Visitors praise its authentic food, particularly Wang's Broth and Yuan Fang Guabao, and the affordable prices. While the 'snake alley' aspect is largely gone, the market retains its old-school charm and proximity to Lungshan Temple. Some find the food section closes earlier than expected.
"Wang’s Broth and Yuan Fang Guabao are must try restaurants. I found both on Michelin guide recommended places and they did not disappoint & neither did the prices! Had the best steamed bun while in Taiwan at Yuan Fang Guabao.
The market is much smaller than others but also has less crowds. Make sure to visit the Lungshan temple while there."
Brooke Ulmane
"When I visited, it felt like a night market frequented by locals—many of the restaurants were filled with families rather than tourists. The atmosphere had a nostalgic, old-school vibe, and it turns out this is actually one of the oldest markets around."
Regina Christiany
"Huaxi Street Night Market also known as Snake Alley, is one of Taipei’s oldest night markets.
Established in the 1950s, the market was once famous for its exotic offerings, including snake meat and traditional Chinese tonics, which earned it the nickname “Snake Alley.” The snake performances and exotic dishes have faded over the years.
Today, Huaxi Street Night Market consists of two main sections: one with simple food stalls serving Taiwanese snacks, and the other lined with massage parlors and beauty salons. The arched roof, traditional lanterns, and tiled walkway add to the market’s old-school charm.
Although the market is officially open until midnight, the food section was almost entirely closed by around 10:00 PM during our visit. If you want to try the food, it’s best to come earlier in the evening."
Anna Krzak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Huaxi Street Night Market is conveniently located near Taipei Main Station, making it easily accessible via public transport. The MRT Blue Line to Longshan Temple Station is a popular choice, with the market just a short walk away.
Yes, it's very close to the famous Lungshan Temple, making it easy to combine a visit to both.
From Taipei Main Station, you can take the MRT Blue Line to Longshan Temple Station. The market is then a short walk from the station.
While public transport is recommended, there are parking garages in the vicinity, though they can be busy during peak hours.
It's a bit of a walk, but doable if you enjoy exploring on foot. Alternatively, a short MRT ride or taxi would be quicker.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Huaxi Street Night Market is a public street market and does not require an entrance ticket. You pay for whatever food or services you choose to purchase.
The market is officially open until midnight, but the food stalls tend to start closing around 10:00 PM. It's best to visit between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM for the full experience.
Most food vendors begin to pack up and close by 10:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly if food is your main focus.
While some restaurants on the street are open during the day, the night market atmosphere and most food stalls come alive in the evening.
Massage parlors operate independently and have their own pricing. You'll pay per service, not for entry into the market area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss Wang's Broth for their braised pork rice and Yuan Fang Guabao for their delicious steamed buns. These are highly recommended by visitors.
Historically, Huaxi Street was known as 'Snake Alley' for its snake delicacies and performances. While these are rare now, the market still offers a wide variety of traditional Taiwanese street food.
While many stalls focus on meat dishes, you can often find vegetable-based snacks, stir-fries, and fruit options. It's best to ask vendors directly about ingredients.
Prices are generally very reasonable, offering great value for money, even at recommended restaurants.
Absolutely! Huaxi Street offers a range of classic Taiwanese snacks, from savory bites to sweet treats, reflecting the local culinary scene.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the food stalls, the traditional lanterns, and the bustling crowds. The nearby Lungshan Temple also offers beautiful architectural shots.
Generally, it's polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their food, especially if they are busy. A smile and a gesture usually suffice.
The market truly comes alive after sunset, with the lights and energy creating a fantastic photographic environment. Early evening offers a good balance of light and activity.
The arched entrance of the market with its traditional lanterns is a great spot. Also, the intricate details of Lungshan Temple are highly photogenic.
It's best to use flash sparingly, especially when photographing people, to avoid being intrusive. Natural light after dusk is often more atmospheric.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The market's proximity to Lungshan Temple also provides a cultural and visually engaging experience for children. 💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Consider indulging in a relaxing foot massage at one of the many parlors after your meal for a perfect end to the evening. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of Snake Alley
This unique aspect drew significant attention, making it a distinct destination within Taipei's burgeoning night market scene. The 'snake alley' moniker became synonymous with the market, reflecting a bygone era of its offerings. However, times have changed, and the market has undergone a significant transformation. The sensational snake-related attractions have largely faded, replaced by a more conventional, yet still vibrant, array of Taiwanese street food and local eateries. While the snake performances are now a rarity, the market retains its historical charm with its distinctive arched roof, traditional lanterns, and tiled walkways, offering a glimpse into Taipei's past.
Today, Huaxi Street is more about enjoying authentic local flavors and experiencing the lively atmosphere of a traditional Taiwanese night market, frequented by locals and curious tourists alike. Culinary Delights Beyond the Ordinary
The market's food section is a vibrant tapestry of aromas and sights. Beyond these specific recommendations, you'll find a diverse range of snacks and dishes. From savory skewers and flavorful noodles to sweet treats and refreshing beverages, there's something to satisfy every palate. While the market officially operates late, it's crucial to note that the food stalls often begin to wind down and close by 10:00 PM.
An Evening of Relaxation and Local Life
What sets Huaxi Street apart is its authentic, local feel. Unlike some of the more tourist-centric markets, many visitors report that Huaxi Street feels more like a place where families and locals gather for dinner and leisure.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit