Ximending or Ximending Night Market 西門町商圈 (Taipei) – iBeauty Taiwan Travel Guide Blog Itinerary, Taipei Tourist Attractions

Ximending is one of the most popular and vibrant neighborhoods in Taipei, Taiwan, known for its bustling atmosphere, trendy shops, street food, and youthful energy. Often referred to as the “Harajuku of Taipei” or the “Taipei’s Shibuya,” Ximending has become the go-to destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a mix of modern culture, historical landmarks, and entertainment. Ximending is a popular gathering place for young people in Taiwan.

Situated in the Wanhua District, Ximending has long been a center for youth culture and fashion. The area’s roots date back to the early 20th century when it was a gathering spot for Japanese expatriates during the Japanese colonial period. Over time, Ximending evolved into the thriving commercial and cultural hub it is today, particularly after the 1990s when it began attracting more shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Ximending is renowned for its pedestrian-only streets, which are lined with trendy fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and eclectic cafes. The area is particularly popular among young people who come to shop, socialize, and catch the latest movies or performances. Ximending’s nightlife scene is also lively, with bars, Karaoke joints, and nightclubs offering entertainment into the late hours. Ximending Shopping District is crowded with people every night. Everything is brightly lit and the atmosphere is great. This is a great place for shopping and dining in the evening. If you are in Taipei, this is definitely one of the must-visit places.

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.

Rainbow Landscape

On May 17, 2019, Taiwan became the first country in Asia where same-sex couples can legally marry. Taipei City has set up a “Rainbow Six” rainbow landscape at Exit 6 of Ximending MRT Station to encourage everyone to respect human rights and promote a friendly environment for gender equality. Ximending is also considered a safe place for the LGBTQ+ community.
Ximending Shopping District

The Red House

Beyond the modern attractions, Ximending also retains a sense of history, with landmarks like The Red House, a well-preserved building from the early 20th century that now houses a range of craft shops and art exhibitions.

The Red House consists of an octagonal building and a cross building, and was originally an indoor market. Later, in Taiwan’s post-war period, the octagonal building was used as a performance venue. It was listed as a Taipei City historic site in 1997 and serves as a cultural and creative venue and exhibition space. There are many bars next to The Red House with a great atmosphere, and it is now also a place for people to gather. Now it has become an LGBTQ+ friendly gathering place, suitable for nightlife with drinks and chats.
Ximending Shopping District

Best Things to Do in

Ximending is one of Taipei’s most vibrant neighborhoods, filled with a mix of shopping, entertainment, food, and culture. Whether you’re a fan of fashion, food, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere, there’s plenty to do in this bustling district. Here are the best things to do in Ximending:

Shop in Trendy Boutiques

Ximending is a shopping paradise, with a variety of fashion boutiques, streetwear stores, and cosmetic shops catering to all tastes. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, unique accessories, or popular Taiwanese brands, you’ll find something for every style. Don’t miss Eslite Bookstore and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, both large department stores offering a great mix of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products.

Explore The Red House

The Red House is a historical landmark in Ximending. Built in the early 20th century, it’s now a hub for local artists, craftsmen, and performers. The building houses art galleries, craft shops, and performance spaces where you can experience live music, theater, or even traditional puppet shows. It’s a great place to explore local culture and pick up unique handcrafted souvenirs.

Ximending Shopping District

Enjoy the Nightlife

Ximending is known for its lively nightlife. Whether you’re into karaoke, bars, or nightclubs, there’s plenty to keep you entertained well into the night. Karaoke lounges are extremely popular in the area, and you can find spots like KTV to sing along with friends. For a more relaxed evening, head to one of the many pubs or craft beer bars that line the streets.

Watch a Movie at the Ximending Cinema

Ximending is home to several cinemas, including Vieshow Cinemas and Ambassador Theaters, where you can catch the latest local and international movies. The Ximending Cinema is particularly popular, offering a mix of traditional movie-going experiences and the latest film screenings. Watching a movie here is a great way to unwind after a busy day of shopping and sightseeing.

People Watch at the Ximending Pedestrian Area

Ximending is a pedestrian-friendly area with open spaces, making it a perfect place for people-watching. The central square often has street performers, musicians, and various pop-up events that add to the lively vibe of the area. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the local energy, whether you’re watching a dance performance or just enjoying the bustling environment.

Enjoy the Cosplay Scene

Ximending has a vibrant cosplay and anime culture. Many visitors come here to dress up as their favorite characters from manga, anime, and video games. On weekends, you’ll often see groups of cosplayers walking around, and some shops cater specifically to cosplay items. If you’re a fan of Japanese pop culture, Ximending is definitely the place to be.

Opening Hours

Opening Hours: Most stores open around 11:00-22:00

Price

Cost: Free Entrance

The Best Time to Visit

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.

Eat and Drink Street Food

Ximending is famous for its street food, so be sure to sample some of Taiwan’s most iconic snacks. Some must-try dishes include:

Oyster Omelet (蚵仔煎): A savory Taiwanese delicacy made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a starchy batter.

Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶): Taiwan’s famous drink, served at a variety of shops in Ximending.

Grilled Sausage (香腸): Delicious Taiwanese-style sausages that are juicy and flavorful.

Taiwanese Meatballs (肉圓): Savory, deep-fried or steamed meatballs filled with pork or other fillings.

Mango Shaved Ice (芒果冰): A refreshing dessert made with finely shaved ice, topped with fresh mango and syrup.

Popular restaurants:
Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodle (阿宗麵線)
西門麵店
燒肉眾精緻炭火燒肉台北西門店
肉次方燒肉放題台北峨眉店
燒肉ChaCha 個人和牛燒肉-西門店
我!就厲害燒肉放題西門珍饌店
熊一頂級燒肉-西門店
涮樂和牛鍋物西門旗艦店
尬鍋台式潮鍋台北西門店
心心麻辣鍋西門店
美觀園日本料理

Street vendors are scattered all over the district, so you can sample these treats as you walk through the busy streets.