Shuanglian Market: Cheap Produce and Tasty Food
Next to Shuanglian MRT Station is a bustling morning market full of fresh produce, local food, and random, assorted wares. Unlike the surrounding night markets, this is not tourist-oriented and is a great spot to immerse yourself in Taiwanese culture. Located right outside exit 2 of Shuanglian station, the market sprawls onto the nearby streets, dominating the neighbourhood.
The market isn’t just a great place for people watching — we rate it highly for grocery shopping, too. You can get fruit, vegetables, flowers, fish, seafood, meat, and nuts, all at very reasonable prices. Where possible, we try to avoid buying fruits and vegetables in supermarkets, as it is A) much more enjoyable to buy them here, and B) much cheaper to buy them here. We also love the idea of buying straight from local people rather than giving our money to huge international businesses.
There are also food stalls selling everything from fresh juices to Vietnamese food, BBQ eel, steamed baos, mochi, salads, fresh breads, chicken, baked sweet potatoes, and much, much more. We’ve tried a bunch of food from these stalls and have never been disappointed. It’s also very friendly on your wallet.
In addition to food, there are also plenty of knick-knacks, soaps, clothing, kitchen utensils, underwear, and other items for sale. It can be pretty cool to browse through, although we’ve never been particularly tempted to purchase anything.
Our favourite shop is actually around the corner from the market—this green grocers has great daily deals, where you can get a basket of fruit or vegetables for $50. It’s a total steal, and they also have CHEAP produce inside. If you’re planning on doing any shopping for produce, we recommend starting here to get the best possible price. It’s located right next to RAYCA Coffee — check out our map down below for the exact location.
Last but not least, there’s actually a pretty temple in the middle of the market. Like the surrounding market, it can be packed on the weekends, which may or may not add to your overall experience.
Shuanglian Market may not sound too special, but it’s a really cool place to wander around and get a feeling for local life. The vendors are extremely friendly and sweet, and you’ll find some great food options. It’s also super convenient to get to, since it’s directly outside the station and next to Youbikes. We rarely walk though here without trying some new snack, and the smiley shopkeepers make us fall in love with Taiwan just that little bit more.
What’s the vibe?
Busy, noisy market street with lots of street food and produce, with a temple in the middle. Most vendors don’t speak English, but everyone is friendly and happy.
Worth it?
If you’re coming to shop or for a casual wander, then yes, absolutely! If you’re coming to check it out specifically from far away, then probably not.
Would you go back?
We go back every week for cheap veggies and snacks.
Visited February 2018.
| Shuanglian Market |
| Chinese Name: 雙連市場 |
| Hours: 7am – 2.30pm (there will still be stalls after this time, but it dies down) |
| English Address:No. 5-1, Lane 45, Minsheng West Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, 10491 |
| Chinese Address: 10491台北市中山區民生西路45巷5-1號 |
