Introduction to Ximending
Ximending is often called the “Harajuku of Taipei,” and for good reason. Bursting with energy, fashion, and youth culture, this vibrant neighborhood is a favorite hangout for teens, artists, and trendsetters. From pop-up street performances to quirky fashion boutiques, Ximending is where you’ll find Taipei’s most playful and creative side in full swing.
A Historic District with Modern Flair
Despite its reputation as a hotspot for pop culture, Ximending is also steeped in history. It was originally developed during the Japanese colonial era and has long served as a commercial and entertainment district. You can still find traces of its past in preserved buildings like the Red House Theater (紅樓劇場), now repurposed as a cultural space for artists, performers, and LGBTQ+ events.
A Street Food Paradise
No visit to Ximending is complete without diving into its legendary street food scene. From flame-torched beef cubes and giant fried chicken cutlets to bubble tea and stinky tofu, the area is a feast for the senses. Vendors line the pedestrian zone with bold flavors and creative snacks that reflect both local tradition and modern street food trends.
Shopping, Style, and Subculture
Ximending is a fashion lover’s paradise. Here you’ll find everything from global brands and boutique shops to niche stores catering to anime fans, vintage collectors, and streetwear aficionados. The neighborhood is a stage for self-expression—visitors often spot locals showing off bold outfits, cosplay, or unique hair colors, especially on weekends.
A Center for Arts and Performance
The district is not just about food and shopping—Ximending is also a canvas for performance and creativity. Street dancers, musicians, and illusionists frequently take over corners of the square. Nearby theaters show indie films and host live shows, making it a hub for alternative arts in Taipei.
Nightlife and LGBTQ+ Friendly Vibes
When the sun goes down, Ximending takes on a new life with its buzzing nightlife. The area around the Red House becomes a lively LGBTQ+ friendly zone filled with open-air bars, lounges, and cafés. It’s one of the most welcoming and inclusive nightlife scenes in the city, with events, drag shows, and parties happening throughout the week.
Easy to Explore, Hard to Leave
Thanks to its pedestrian-friendly layout and central location (just a short walk from Ximen MRT Station), Ximending is incredibly easy to access and navigate. Whether you’re in Taipei for a day or a week, this neighborhood offers an unforgettable blend of entertainment, culture, and personality that captures the spirit of modern Taiwan.
Things to Do in ximending
The whole Ximending area is packed with tourists and locals, especially at night, and always feels lively. Ximending Pedestrian Zone has many street performers and promotional activities during the holidays. There is a wide variety of products, very suitable for adults, children and the elderly.
For example. Food, snacks, souvenirs, fashion, nightlife and even LGBTQ events or street performances can keep you entertained. Ximending is a very diverse living and business district, and a paradise for young people.
With its energetic atmosphere and mix of old and new, Ximending is a must-visit area for anyone looking to experience the pulse of Taipei’s urban life. Whether you’re there to shop, enjoy local food, or simply wander around and take in the vibrant street scene, Ximending offers an exciting experience at every turn.
There’s plenty to do in this bustling district. Here are the best things to do in Ximending:
Rainbow Landscape
The Rainbow Landscape at the entrance to Ximending is more than just an Instagrammable backdrop—it’s a statement of identity, inclusion, and community.
Painted boldly across the pavement, the rainbow symbolizes Taiwan’s progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, especially as the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. It serves as a visual invitation into a space that celebrates diversity and freedom of expression.
This colorful walkway leads you directly to the Red House and its surrounding plaza, making it one of the most photographed and symbolic spots in the area. Visitors often stop to take photos, meet friends, or simply admire the bold design that perfectly captures the spirit of Ximending.
Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or simply a supporter, the Rainbow Landscape sets the tone for Ximending’s inclusive and youthful energy.
Ximending Pedestrian Area
The Ximending Pedestrian Area is the vibrant heart of the district—Taipei’s original pedestrian-only shopping zone, buzzing day and night with energy. This lively thoroughfare is packed with local fashion boutiques, quirky souvenir shops, global chains, and endless street food vendors.
The streets are alive with street performers, musicians, dancers, and cosplayers, creating an open-air stage that constantly surprises and entertains.
Wandering through the area feels like being inside a cultural crossroads, where East meets West and old traditions blend with pop culture. You’ll spot murals, flashing LED signs, and even temporary art installations.
It’s a great place to people-watch, grab snacks on the go, and soak in the free-spirited, youthful atmosphere that defines Ximending. Whether you visit during the day or at night, it always feels electric.
Shop in Trendy Boutiques
Ximending is a fashionista’s dream come true. Beyond the chain stores and department outlets, it’s filled with independent boutiques that cater to every style imaginable. You’ll find Korean-inspired streetwear, Japanese Lolita fashion, oversized tees, limited-edition sneakers, and niche subculture items.
Many shops cater to younger shoppers looking to stay ahead of fashion trends, and you’ll often see stylists and influencers browsing for their next statement piece.
What makes shopping here unique is the eclectic variety. One alley might be filled with vintage shops and handmade accessories, while another hosts pop-up stalls with experimental or high-concept fashion.
Prices range from affordable streetwear to designer pieces, so there’s something for every budget. Don’t be surprised if you spend hours exploring—every corner seems to offer something new and unexpected.
The Red House
The Red House (紅樓) is one of Taipei’s oldest and most iconic buildings, originally constructed in 1908 during the Japanese colonial era. Its octagonal shape and red-brick architecture make it instantly recognizable, and over the years, it has transformed from a public market to a cultural and creative center.
Today, it serves as a platform for artists, performers, and local entrepreneurs, hosting weekend markets, art exhibitions, and small concerts.
Inside, you’ll find handmade crafts, unique souvenirs, and art from emerging Taiwanese creatives. On weekends, the outdoor plaza fills with pop-up vendors selling everything from accessories to zines and artisan goods.
Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or local talent, the Red House offers a deeper look at Taipei’s cultural evolution—where tradition meets modern expression in a truly unique space.
Ximen Red House Bar Street
Just behind the Red House lies one of Taipei’s most colorful nightlife enclaves: Ximen Red House Bar Street. This open-air alley is lined with LGBTQ+-friendly bars, most of which offer outdoor seating, rainbow lights, and live music or DJs in the evening.
The vibe is casual and friendly, drawing a mix of locals, travelers, and members of the queer community. Many bars here have English-speaking staff, making it welcoming for international visitors as well.
Whether you’re sipping cocktails under the stars, enjoying a drag performance, or chatting with locals, the atmosphere is always inclusive and laid-back. It’s not just a party zone—it’s a community gathering space that celebrates freedom, identity, and creativity.
Visiting the Red House Bar Street gives you a deeper appreciation of Taipei’s progressive culture and the diversity that thrives in its urban spaces.
Watch a Movie at the Ximending Cinema
Ximending is also a great place to catch a film, offering a variety of cinemas that screen everything from international blockbusters to indie Taiwanese productions. The Vieshow Cinemas complex and in89 Cinema are both centrally located and equipped with comfortable seating, modern facilities, and a wide selection of snacks.
Whether you’re in the mood for a Hollywood hit or a quiet arthouse film, you’ll find something that fits your taste. Watching a movie here is a great way to take a break from the crowds, especially in the evening after a full day of exploring.
Some theaters even host special events or themed screenings, providing a more local or immersive cinema experience. It’s also a fun way to get a glimpse of Taiwanese pop culture and film trends while enjoying some downtime indoors.
Enjoy the Cosplay Scene
If you visit Ximending on a weekend or during a special event, don’t be surprised to run into cosplayers roaming the streets. The area is a popular gathering spot for fans of anime, manga, and gaming, many of whom come dressed as their favorite characters.
These elaborate costumes and performances turn the pedestrian zone into an impromptu cosplay runway, where fans and photographers gather to admire and snap photos.
Cosplayers in Ximending are often welcoming and open to conversations or pictures, making it a fun and interactive experience for visitors. Some shops in the area even sell costumes, wigs, and accessories, turning Ximending into a go-to spot for cosplay supplies.
What to Eat in Ximending
Ximending is a paradise for food lovers, offering a vibrant mix of traditional Taiwanese street snacks, trendy drinks, and modern fusion bites—all within a few walkable blocks.
From the moment you step out of Ximen Station, you’re surrounded by the irresistible aromas of sizzling skewers, bubbling hot pots, and freshly made desserts.
Whether you’re craving famous eats like Ah Zong Mian Xian (Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodles), crispy fried chicken, or Instagram-worthy bubble tea, there’s no shortage of delicious discoveries.
Classic Taiwanese Street Food
▎Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle (阿宗麵線)
Established in 1975, Ay-Chung is a staple in Ximending known for its thick vermicelli noodles in a savory broth made from bonito and kelp. The tender braised intestines and flavorful soup topped with garlic and chili create an addictive taste that keeps locals and tourists coming back.
▎Fuhong Beef Noodles (富宏牛肉麵)
Fu Hong Beef Noodles is a local favorite in Ximending, known for its rich, flavorful broth and generous portions of tender beef. Open 24 hours, it’s a go-to spot for a satisfying late-night meal or a comforting bowl of noodles any time of day.
▎Lao Shandong Homemade Noodles (老山東牛肉家常麵店)
Lao Shan Dong Homemade Noodles is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant that has been serving handmade noodles and rich beef broth since 1949, making it a must-try for fans of traditional Taiwanese beef noodles.
▎Niu Dian Beef Noodles (牛店精燉牛肉麵)
Niu Dian Beef Noodles is a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognized restaurant known for its meticulously simmered beef broth and premium beef cuts, offering both traditional and spicy noodle options.
▎Ximen Noodle (西門麵店)
Ximen Noodle House is a local favourite that has been serving up classic Taiwanese comfort food for over 60 years. Open 24 hours a day (except Sundays), the shop is famous for its flavorful braised pork knuckle rice and cold noodles, served in a nostalgic, retro-style setting that keeps both locals and visitors coming back.
▎The Duck House (Goose) (鴨肉扁老店)
Operating for over 70 years, this historic shop specializes in duck meat vermicelli soup. The duck meat is tender and the clear broth is light yet full of flavor, a simple and classic comfort food loved by locals.
▎Ping Sister’s Pickled Cabbage Noodles (萬國酸菜麵)
Famous from the movie “Hear Me,” this humble noodle shop serves noodles with house-made pickled cabbage in a savory, slightly sour broth. The hand-pulled noodles and balanced sourness make it an addictive local favorite.
▎Lao Tian Lu (老天祿滷味)
Lao Tien Lu is a legendary braised snack shop that has been serving up flavorful Taiwanese delicacies for over six decades. Known for its richly marinated duck parts, tofu, and other soy-based treats, the shop uses a secret blend of herbs and spices to create deep, savory flavors that keep locals and tourists coming back for more.
▎Cheng Wei Zhen (程味珍意麵滷味)
Cheng Wei Zhen is a beloved local eatery, serving traditional Taiwanese comfort food since 1974. Known for its flavorful Lu Rou Fan (braised pork rice), dry noodles, and a variety of braised snacks, the restaurant offers a nostalgic dining experience that has won the hearts of both locals and visitors.
▎Gan Mei Alley (甘妹弄堂 – 西門店)
Gan Mei Alley is a creative fusion restaurant blending Hakka, Taiwanese, and Shanghai cuisines, renowned for its signature iron plate soup dumplings and nostalgic early lunch sets.
▎Tian Tian Li Delicacies (天天利美食坊)
Tian Tian Li Delicacies is a beloved local eatery known for its affordable and flavorful Taiwanese comfort foods like Lu Rou Fan (braised pork rice), oyster omelets, radish cakes, and squid soup.
▎Dong Yi Pork Chop Main Store (東一排骨)
A vintage-style eatery preserving the look of 1970s Taipei with a small stage inside. Their signature crispy pork chop rice comes with three side dishes and soup, evoking nostalgia alongside hearty satisfaction.
▎King Pork Wan Nian Store (金園排骨萬年店)
Specializing in Taiwanese-style pork chop and chicken leg rice, this shop offers generous portions with rich, aromatic braised sauce. Its affordable price and filling meals make it popular among nearby workers and students.
Hot Pot, BBQ & Korean Cuisine
▎Hotpot Restuarant Emperor House (皇家帝國麻辣火鍋吃到飽)
Hotpot Restuarant Emperor House is a popular all-you-can-eat hot pot restaurant, known for its extensive selection of over 100 dishes, including premium meats, seafood, and a variety of broths. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists seeking a hearty and satisfying dining experience.
▎Power of Meat Ximen Emei Branch (肉次方燒肉放題)
A buffet-style BBQ restaurant from the Wang Group, offering a wide selection of meats and Korean side dishes. High quality and great service make it ideal for families and friends.
▎God Guo Hot Pot Taipei Ximen Branch (尬鍋 台式潮鍋 台北西門店)
God Guo Hot Pot offers a modern twist on traditional Taiwanese flavors with its “one pot, double feast” concept. The restaurant combines nostalgic Taiwanese decor with a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking a unique dining experience.
▎ChaCha Wagyu BBQ Ximen Branch (燒肉ChaCha 個人和牛燒肉-西門店)
ChaCha Wagyu BBQ is a modern yakiniku restaurant, offering a unique dining experience with premium cuts of Japanese A5 wagyu, American Miyazaki wagyu, and Australian black-haired wagyu. The restaurant features a cozy ambiance with wood tones and soft lighting, providing a comfortable setting for solo diners and groups alike.
▎Shabu Le Wagyu Hot Pot (涮樂和牛鍋物 西門旗艦店)
Shabu Le Wagyu Hot Pot offers a wide selection of high-quality meats, including Japanese F1 wagyu, American SRF Black Wagyu, and Australian Black Hair Wagyu, alongside a variety of creative dishes and a generous self-serve bar.
▎Wenting Hot Pot – Ximen Branch (問鼎 ‧ 皇上吉祥 麻辣養生鍋-西門店)
Wenting Hot Pot – Ximen Branch offers a luxurious dining experience with its palace-themed decor, featuring premium hot pot options and interactive performances like Sichuan opera face-changing.
▎Bear One B.B.Q – Ximen (熊一頂級燒肉-西門店)
Bear One B.B.Q is famous for its high quality meat and rich buffet selection. With prices starting at NT$598, it offers a variety of dining options and promotions, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking a satisfying meal.
▎Xin Xin Hot Pot – Ximen Branch (心心麻辣鍋 西門店)
Xin Xin Hot Pot offers a diverse selection of premium meats, fresh seafood, and flavorful broths. Known for its unique offerings like the “milk bath bear” and the visually striking “seven dragon balls,” it’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking a fun and satisfying dining experience.
▎Chingu BBQ Taipei MRT Ximen Branch (金咕 친구 韓式原塊烤肉 台北西門店)
Known for thick-cut pork belly and beef cooked over charcoal grills, paired with authentic Korean sides like kimchi and lettuce wraps. A great spot for Korean BBQ lovers looking for generous portions.
▎Ema Yakiniku Taipei Ximending Branch (绘馬別邸 台北西門町店)
An upscale Japanese-style yakiniku restaurant offering premium meats including Wagyu beef and fresh seafood. Elegant ambiance makes it perfect for dates and celebrations.
▎Diao Min Asia Sauerkraut Fish Ximen Zhonghua Branch (刁民-酸菜魚 西門中華店)
A recent hit in Taipei, this Sichuan-style pickled fish chain offers a spicy and sour broth packed with thick fish fillets and crispy fried fish skin. The bold flavors make it a favorite for those craving authentic spicy hot pot.
▎Swing Pot Chicken (甩鍋雞볶찜韓式炒雞吃到飽-西門店)
Serving Korean-style cheese dakgalbi, this restaurant cooks the dish tableside with melted cheese, rice cakes, and vegetables. It’s a visually enticing and deliciously gooey treat, perfect for groups.
Japanese Cuisine
▎Mei Guan Yuan Sushi (美觀園壽司)
Established in 1946, this classic Japanese restaurant offers over 300 dishes including sushi, sashimi, and rice bowls. Fresh ingredients and reasonable prices make it a beloved spot for locals.
▎SUNWAY (三味食堂)
Popular for large portions and affordable fresh sashimi rice bowls, this casual restaurant offers a variety of Japanese dishes with a homey atmosphere and great value.
▎Coba Sushi (小林英夫食堂)
A cozy fusion of Taiwanese and Japanese flavors, offering set meals, rice bowls, and soups. Highlights include sake-steamed clams and Japanese-style fried chicken.
▎Ramen Nagi Ximen Restaurant (豚骨拉麵凪NaGi)
Ramen Nagi Ximen is a popular ramen spot in Taipei’s Ximending area, known for its rich pork bone broth and fully customizable bowls, allowing diners to tailor everything from noodle firmness to spice level for a perfect, personal ramen experience.
Brunch & Cafés
▎Fong Da Coffee (蜂大咖啡)
A classic Taipei café with retro Japanese Showa-era vibes. Famous for its strong black coffee and honey coffee, it’s a nostalgic spot for locals to relax.
▎Somebody Café (貳拾陸巷)
An artsy café founded by illustrator siblings, offering espresso drinks, brunch plates, and desserts in a cozy, illustrated setting full of books and creative touches.
▎JOYSOUL Bar (解鎖)
A hidden speakeasy-style bar behind a grocery store, known for creative cocktails and unique small plates. Great for photo ops and intimate gatherings.
▎Meat Up (Meat Up 覓晌 西門店)
Meat Up located on the 6th floor of a building near the intersection of Wuchang Street and Hanzhong Street in Taipei’s Ximending district, is a stylish café and restaurant known for its photogenic desserts, customizable burgers, and creative drinks.
Desserts & Drinks
▎Xing Fu Tang Flagship (幸福堂西門町全球旗艦店)
Xing Fu Tang Ximending Flagship Store is a famous bubble tea spot in Taipei’s Ximending, celebrated worldwide for its hand-cooked brown sugar pearls and signature drinks like the flame-torched brown sugar milk, delivering a tasty and authentic tea experience.
▎3 Siblings (三兄妹雪花冰 西門町總店)
3 Siblings is a popular dessert shop renowned for its fluffy, milk-based snow ice topped with fresh fruits like mango and strawberry, offering a refreshing treat in the heart of the city.
▎Ximen Mango Shaved Ice (西門町芒菓冰)
Ximen Mango Shaved Ice is a trendy dessert spot, known for its smooth, mango-infused shaved ice topped with fresh fruit—perfect for cooling off on a hot day and a favorite among both locals and visitors.
▎Yang Ji Peanut Corn Ice (楊記花生玉米冰)
A three-generation family-run ice shop known for their peanut and corn shaved ice topped with condensed milk and brown sugar syrup. Refreshing and nostalgic.
▎Ice Una (冰封仙果)
Ice Una Ximending is a popular dessert café famous for its creative “Snow Monster” shaved ice, made with fresh fruits and creamy milk-based ice, making it a fun and Instagram-worthy spot to cool down in Taipei.
▎Yi Zhu Mai Ice Shop (一支麥冰品店)
Yi Zhi Mai Ice Cream Shop serves up creamy, milk-based snow ice made with Italian gelato methods, topped with fresh fruits and classic Taiwanese treats like taro balls and tofu pudding, offering a sweet and nostalgic dessert experience.
Opening Hours
Opening Hours: Most stores open around 11:00-22:00
The Best Time to Visit Ximending
If you want to avoid the heavy crowds, weekdays are the best time to visit Ximending. The area will be less crowded compared to the weekends, allowing for a more relaxed experience while shopping and exploring the shops and attractions.
Ximending is busiest on weekends, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. If you enjoy a bustling, energetic environment with street performers, crowds, and vibrant nightlife, visiting Ximending on the weekend will give you the most lively experience. However, be prepared for larger crowds and longer lines at popular food stalls.
The best time to visit Ximending depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for, as this vibrant area offers different vibes throughout the day and across different seasons.
Late Morning to Early Afternoon (10 AM – 2 PM)
During this time, Ximending is typically less crowded compared to the evenings, making it a good time for shopping and exploring the local stores.
The shops are open, and you can comfortably walk around without too many people. The atmosphere is more relaxed, and you can also enjoy a meal or snack without the rush of the evening crowd.
Late Afternoon to Evening (4 PM – 7 PM)
If you’re interested in experiencing the lively street food scene, this is a great time. As evening approaches, the street food vendors come to life, and the area starts to get busier with both locals and tourists.
The atmosphere becomes vibrant with street performances, neon lights, and an exciting energy. It’s also the perfect time for dinner or a drink at one of the bars or cafes in the area.
Night (8 PM – 11 PM)
This is when Ximending truly comes alive, especially on weekends. If you enjoy nightlife with lots of action, this is the time to visit. The streets are full of shoppers, food lovers, and people hanging out at karaoke bars, nightclubs, and cafes.
The brightly lit streets and the bustling atmosphere are perfect for those who want to experience the youthful, energetic vibe of Taipei at night.
Ximending is a dynamic and youthful area that has something for everyone, whether you’re into shopping, food, culture, or entertainment. From eating street food and shopping for the latest trends to experiencing the nightlife or enjoying a cultural performance, there’s never a dull moment in this lively part of Taipei.
Ximending truly captures the modern and vibrant spirit of the city.
How to Get to Ximending
Getting to Ximending is easy and convenient, especially if you’re already in Taipei. Here are the most popular ways:
By MRT (Metro)
The MRT (Taipei Metro) is the easiest and most efficient way.
Take the Blue Line (Bannan Line) or Green Line (Songshan–Xindian Line)
Get off at Ximen Station
Use Exit 6 – this leads you directly into the heart of Ximending’s pedestrian area
The MRT is fast, clean, and well-signposted in English, making it tourist-friendly.
By Bus
Several city buses stop near Ximending, including:
Routes: 9, 12, 49, 204, 218, 223, 231, 241, 245, 250, 260, 262, 307, 310, and more
Get off at Ximen or Zhonghua Road stops
Use Google Maps or the Taipei Bus app to check live routes and transfers
From Taoyuan International Airport
If you’re heading to Ximending straight from the airport:
Take the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station (about 35–40 minutes)
Transfer to the MRT Blue Line toward Dingpu
Get off at Ximen Station
Ximending
The Red House
Are YOU Ready For The Nightlife? Beers, Cocktails, Food…