July 10, 2025
Introduction to Yongle Market
Located in the culturally rich Dadaocheng neighborhood, Yongle Market (永樂市場) stands as one of Taipei’s most iconic and enduring traditional markets. Established in 1908 during the Japanese colonial period, the market has long been a hub of daily life, trade, and community.
It remains a vibrant, working market that blends the past and present—where history lives not in monuments, but in fabric rolls, street food, and daily routines.
The Textile Capital of Taipei
Yongle Market is best known as the textile heart of Taipei. The upper floors of the market are filled with hundreds of fabric vendors selling every type of material imaginable—from high-end silks and lace to colorful cotton and upholstery fabric.
Designers, tailors, and DIY enthusiasts come here to browse, barter, and be inspired. If you’re looking to create a custom cheongsam, curtain, or cosplay costume, this is the place to start.
Street Food and Market Eats
The ground floor is a treasure trove of Taiwanese street food and market snacks. Vendors serve up local favorites like braised pork rice, squid thick soup (like from nearby Wan Long Sashimi Shop), taro balls, and herbal teas.
The atmosphere is bustling and aromatic, filled with the sizzle of grills and the chatter of hungry locals. It’s one of the best places in Taipei to enjoy authentic, affordable food in a traditional setting.
A Starting Point for Exploring Dihua Street
Yongle Market is perfectly located at the entrance of Dihua Street, a historic trade street lined with baroque-style buildings, traditional Chinese medicine shops, and artisanal boutiques.
Many visitors start at Yongle to grab a bite or browse fabrics, then stroll down Dihua to soak in the old-world charm of Taipei. Together, they form a cultural corridor that offers both commerce and heritage.
A Blend of Generations and Traditions
What makes Yongle Market special is how it remains a living, breathing part of the community. You’ll see elderly vendors who’ve run stalls for decades, standing beside younger entrepreneurs experimenting with fusion snacks or modern fabrics.
The intergenerational mix keeps the market dynamic—rooted in tradition but never stagnant. This continuity and adaptation make every visit feel both timeless and new.
A Must-Visit for Culture and Craft Lovers
Whether you’re a foodie, a fashion enthusiast, or a culture seeker, Yongle Market has something to offer. It’s not a tourist trap—it’s a real local marketplace where people still come to work, shop, and eat.
Visiting here gives travelers a rare, grounded look into the daily life of Taipei residents and the enduring traditions that shape the city’s identity. It’s a cultural immersion in the most flavorful, colorful sense.
Things to Do in Yongle Market
Yongle Market in Taipei is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the city’s traditional culture and vibrant local life. It’s known for its historical significance, bustling atmosphere, and the unique mix of textiles, food, and cultural products.
Browse Endless Rolls of Fabric
Head to the upper floors to explore a maze of fabric stalls offering everything from silk and brocade to denim, linen, and quirky prints. Whether you’re a fashion designer, DIY crafter, or just curious, it’s a fascinating glimpse into Taipei’s textile industry.
Eat Authentic Market Food
Grab a stool at one of the bustling food stalls and enjoy traditional Taiwanese dishes like oil rice (油飯), squid soup (魷魚羹), braised pork rice, or fresh sashimi from nearby vendors like Wan Long Sashimi Shop. It’s a foodie paradise hidden in plain sight.
Shop for Tailoring Supplies
Looking to make something custom? Along with fabric, the market sells zippers, buttons, trims, thread, and everything a tailor might need. It’s a great place to hunt for unique details or souvenirs if you love crafts and design.
Start a Cultural Walk Along Dihua Street
Yongle Market sits right at the gateway to Dihua Street, so after browsing the market, step outside and begin a leisurely stroll down one of Taipei’s oldest and most atmospheric streets. The blend of food, history, and heritage architecture makes for an unforgettable experience.
Try Herbal Teas or Traditional Remedies
Many nearby stalls and shops sell cooling herbal teas and traditional Chinese medicine, giving you a taste of Taiwan’s centuries-old wellness culture. These drinks are refreshing and rooted in the philosophy of balance and healing.
Visit During the Lunar New Year Market
If you’re in Taipei during Lunar New Year, Yongle Market and Dihua Street transform into a massive festive bazaar with decorations, seasonal snacks, and special gifts. It’s one of the best places to experience Taiwan’s holiday traditions up close.
What to Eat in Yongle Market & Dihua Street
Like many traditional markets in Taiwan, Yongle Market offers a variety of delicious street food. The food court on the first floor is very lively because of the famous Lin Hefa Oil Rice and Wan Long Sashimi Shop.
There was a constant stream of people queuing up, and the queue of people waiting squeezed out of the door. There are toilets available in the market. Sometimes cultural and creative markets are held in outdoor squares.
Public Tables and Chairs
There are some public tables and thairs in Yongle Market. If you walk around, you will find Public tables and chairs. However, please remember to take your trash away after eating.
Li He Fa Oil Rice Shop (林合發油飯店) (Yongle Market)
A beloved local gem with decades of history, Li He Fa is famous for its traditional Taiwanese oil rice (you fan) – a sticky, savory dish packed with mushrooms, pork, and peanuts.
Known for its authenticity and nostalgic flavors, this shop has been a go-to for locals seeking comfort food that feels like home. It’s also a popular choice for festival offerings and family gatherings.
Opening Hours: 07:30–13:00(Closed Mondays)
Wan Long Sashimi Shop (丸隆生魚行) (Yongle Market)
Opening Hours: 09:00–15:00(Closed Mondays)
Located inside Yongle Market in the historic Dadaocheng area, Wan Long Sashimi Shop is a beloved seafood stall known for its ultra-fresh sashimi at surprisingly reasonable prices. Frequented by locals who know where to find quality, the shop offers thick, cleanly sliced cuts of salmon, tuna, uni, and scallops.
Despite its modest setting within the market, it delivers a top-tier sashimi experience that rivals upscale sushi bars.
With a low minimum spend of just NT$250, you get unlimited miso soup. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors right in the heart of one of Taipei’s most historic markets.
Opening Hours: 09:00–15:00(Closed Mondays)
Mikkeller Bar Taipei (米凱樂啤酒吧)
Mikkeller Bar Taipei brings the globally recognized Danish craft beer brand to Taiwan with a hip and cozy venue tucked in Da’an District. With over a dozen rotating taps featuring Mikkeller’s signature brews and collaborations with local breweries, it’s a haven for beer enthusiasts and those looking for an eclectic drinking experience.
The interior is minimalist yet warm, ideal for both casual meetups and beer tasting nights.
WOSOM ASW Teahouse & Bar (沃森茶酒館)
Blending traditional Taiwanese tea culture with modern mixology, WOSOM ASW is a stylish teahouse by day and an experimental cocktail bar by night. Located in a repurposed historic building, it merges elegance with innovation, creating drinks that infuse oolong, puerh, and other teas with premium spirits.
The space exudes a refined atmosphere perfect for those who appreciate creative drinks with a cultural twist.
Du Hsiao Yueh Dihua Branch (度小月台北迪化店)
A historic brand dating back to 1895, Du Hsiao Yueh is known for its danzai noodles, served in a flavorful broth with minced pork and shrimp.
The Dihua branch adds extra charm with its location in Taipei’s heritage-rich Dadaocheng area, offering a nostalgic atmosphere that complements the classic dishes. The setting is both cultural and culinary, bridging past and present.
Yao De He Qingcao Hao (姚德和青草號)
This old-school herb shop and drink stand in the heart of Taipei has been a go-to for traditional herbal remedies and cooling teas for decades.
Yao De He serves herbal drinks made from over a dozen natural ingredients, perfect for hot days or restoring balance to the body. It’s a nostalgic stop that embodies Taiwanese health traditions in drinkable form.
Minle Swordfish Rice Noodles (民樂旗魚米粉)
Minle is famed for its hearty bowls of swordfish rice noodles, a traditional dish from Tainan made with clear broth, thin vermicelli, and crispy fried swordfish chunks.
The flavors are simple but deeply comforting, reflecting the soul of southern Taiwanese street food. The restaurant stays busy with regulars who appreciate its consistency and affordable prices.
Summer Tree Sweet Desserts (夏樹甜品)
A stylish dessert spot that blends modern presentation with classic Taiwanese treats, Summer Tree Sweet Desserts is known for its use of fresh, seasonal fruits and traditional bases like tofu pudding and taro balls. It’s a favorite among younger crowds for its Instagram-worthy dishes and dedication to natural ingredients.
Lao-A-Bei (GRANDPAng’ SOUP) (老阿伯胖魷焿)
This humble food stall is a legend among Taipei street eats, serving squid thick soup (you geng) with a unique twist. The broth is rich and gooey, filled with chewy squid pieces and garnished with cilantro and garlic paste. Known for its consistency and friendly service, it’s a must-try for lovers of hearty local fare.
Mai Mien Yen Tsai (賣麵炎仔)
With over a century of history, Mai Mien Yen Tsai is a legendary noodle shop in Taipei’s Datong District. Known for its no-frills, old-school vibe, the eatery specializes in minced pork noodles (lu rou mian) and side dishes like marinated tofu and pig’s ears.
It’s beloved by locals and foodies alike for preserving the simple, deeply satisfying flavors of traditional Taiwanese street food.
DaDaoChen Bubble Tea (大盜陳茶飲)
DaDaoChen Bubble Tea fuses modern bubble tea culture with Dadaocheng’s historical setting, offering creative drinks that emphasize local ingredients and artisanal techniques. Beyond the usual boba, expect drinks featuring traditional Chinese herbs, roasted teas, and unique toppings.
The shop’s retro-themed design and packaging also make it a hit among tourists and locals seeking a taste of modern nostalgia.
Opening Hours
Opening Hours: 08:00–16:00(Closed Mondays).
Price
Cost: Free Entrance
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Yongle Market is in the morning to early afternoon, ideally between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
This is when the market is at its most active—food vendors are freshly stocked, fabric sellers are open and available, and the atmosphere is lively but not yet crowded.
If you’re interested in shopping for textiles or having something custom made, arriving early gives you more time to browse and chat with tailors before the afternoon rush.
Avoid visiting on Sundays, as most shops and stalls are closed. Weekdays are generally quieter and more relaxed, while Saturdays can get busy with both locals and tourists.
If you’re in Taipei during the Lunar New Year season, Yongle Market and the surrounding Dihua Street transform into a bustling holiday market filled with festive foods, red decorations, and seasonal gifts—making it an unforgettable time to explore the area.
How to Get to Yongle Market
Getting to Yongle Market is simple and convenient, especially by Taipei MRT.
By MRT (Metro)
Take the Green Line (Songshan–Xindian Line) and get off at Beimen Station (北門站).
Use Exit 3 or Exit 4, then walk north along Tacheng Street, which turns into Dihua Street.
After about a 5–10 minute walk, you’ll arrive at Yongle Market—it’ll be on your right, inside a large red-brick building.
Travel Tips
Bring an EasyCard for hassle-free MRT travel.
The market usually opens around 9 AM to 1 PM, closed on Sundays.
Arriving in the morning gives you the best selection, especially at the food and fabric stalls.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Dihua Street, Xiahai City God Temple, or the Red House in Ximending.
Nearby Attractions
After exploring the market, visitors can also visit nearby attractions such as the Dihua Street, famous for its Chinese herbal medicine stores, and Dadaocheng Wharf. These sites are perfect for adding a cultural and historical dimension to your visit.
Just a short distance from Yongle Market, you can visit the Dadaocheng Wharf along the Tamsui River. It’s a scenic spot to relax, take a stroll, and enjoy the view of the river. The wharf area has also been developed with recreational spaces, making it a nice place to enjoy some fresh air after your market exploration.