Liu, a 47-year-old mother of two, is the only female among more than 100 auctioneers at this market. After beginning in the supermarkets division of the Taipei Agricultural Products Marketing Co. in 1988, she joined the ranks of auctioneers nine years ago, following in the footsteps of her father and brother. Building off a basic understanding and interest in auctioneering, Liu quickly distinguished herself due to her excellent judgment, fearlessness and great voice.

The official working time for auctioneers is 2~9 am, though hours often stretch out longer. To ensure a smooth, punctual start, Liu typically arrives shortly after midnight to prepare. Selling continues until the auction counter display reads zero, at which time Liu prepares crates for shipment, verifies accounts, and reports the day's results to farms. On days when a large shipment arrives, she may continue selling until noon.

Fruit and Vegetable Price Fluctuations Start at the Market

The First and Second wholesale fruit and vegetable markets supply more than 3.5 million people in Greater Taipei and attract buyers from Taoyuan, Keelung, and Yilan. Since about 70 percent of the fruits and vegetables served in Taipei, New Taipei, and Keelung come from the First Market, price fluctuations here are directly passed onto consumers. Auctioneers must balance prices paid at origin with the wholesale price, to ensure profits for farmers and fair prices for consumers. With all shipments subjected to random pesticide testing before auction, the market also serves as the first food safety checkpoint for consumers.

The director of First Market, Wang Hong-xiong (王鴻雄), has been involved in the fruit and vegetable industry for nearly three decades. Wang says that smart buyers always try to buy during peak season. While most fruits and vegetables are available year-round, season affects both quality and price. For example, large volumes of high-quality cabbage in winter make it an excellent choice. In summer, when cabbage is only available at high altitudes, decreased volume is reflected in higher prices. By seasonally changing eating habits, you can enjoy a variety of tastes while saving money.

A Day at the Fruit and Vegetable Market

5:00 pm--After arriving at Taipei First Wholesale Fruit and Vegetable Market, farmers' association delivery agents weigh their product and attach a delivery form. Once the delivery code and unloading area are stamped on the form, agents head to the designated area for unloading.

1:30 am--Cargo clerks begin to work. After verifying the unloading order, they open crates, arrange auction sequence numbers, sign and accept inventory counts. They then check scales and inform inspectors to test products.

2:00 am--Auctioneers begin to work. After inspecting quality classifications based on sequence numbers to avoid later discrepancies or mistakes, they assess weather, classification, shipment volume, and buyer quantity to set reserve prices for each batch of goods. They then transmit these prices to their computer and digital auction counter.

3:20 am--Auctions open. Buyers use hand or verbal cues to bid. When a sale is made, the auctioneer issues a dual-copy transaction voucher to serve as proof of receipt.

7:00 am--Auctions wrap up. Goods are delivered to markets in northern Taiwan.

12:00 noon--Closing

From East Sanshui Street Market, admire this horseshoe-shaped building. While the building was finished in 1935, it wasn't until 2005 that the Department of Cultural Affairs, Taipei City Government (台北市文化局) designated it as a historic landmark, a delay attributed to its concealment amid the market and surrounding homes. A green Chinese character "pei" (北) on the anterior gable, which signifies that this is a public market in Taipei, is a wonderful detail partially hidden by the assortment of structures around it.

After the Taipei City Market Administration Office (台北市市場處) completed restoration of Xinfu Market in 2013, the building finally saw the light of day. In September, JUT Foundation for Arts and Architecture (忠泰建築文化藝術基金會), a subsidiary of JUT Land Development Group (忠泰集團), obtained operating rights. A senior project manager, Ou Yang Aining (歐陽藹 寧), says that the foundation's first step will be to create a connection between this historic landmark and neighboring residents to attract a younger demographic.

Transforming a Forgotten Market Into a Learning Center

A review of historical documents has revealed that the original name of the market was the Shintomicho foodstuff market (新富町食料品小賣市場). With over 30 stalls at its peak selling seafood, pork, vegetables, and groceries, the market served as a magnet for peripheral stalls that were soon combined to form the East Sanshui Street Market. Opening of the Huannan Market (環南市場) in 1978 ushered in Xinfu Market's gradual decline and complete closure in 2012. Walking into Xinfu Market reveals many clever design characteristics. The elliptical courtyard in the center enhances the natural light. Stalls requiring large volumes of water were concentrated beside the courtyard where they could take advantage of the horseshoeshaped gutters. In addition, an ice room is conveniently located in a corner of the market.

As a historic landmark, Xinfu Market retains many of its original characteristics. On the first floor there are still old wooden stalls and a warehouse door bears the scars of a past fire. Instead of selling vegetables, the market will be transformed into a cultural base designed by Japanese architect Go Hasegawa, who will lead a second round of renovations beginning at the end of June.

Work will commence on the second floor next year to provide low-rent workspace for young designers, while the first floor will serve as a community center that hosts a cooking academy and cultural school for extended learning classes. A portion of the space will be reserved for an urban laboratory to be used by creative groups. Display of the original wooden stalls will give visitors and locals a better understanding of the history of Xinfu Market.

Dadaocheng Morning Markets – A Look at Life in the Old Days

In the past, people commonly went to temples in the early morning to worship the deities, and then bought fruits and vegetables from sellers in front. Over time, more formal morning markets formed in these spots, opening at different times and selling different things, with fruit and veggie sellers opening at 6 am and small eateries opening at 8 am. The market would shut down around 4 or 5 in the afternoon, so people could come and shop anytime in the day. Liangzhou Street (涼州街), before Cisheng Temple (慈聖宮) in the Dadaocheng (大稻埕) area, is home to some of Taipei’s most famous morning-market food stalls. Vendors start opening around 9 am, and close up around 3 pm. Just about every stand here has been in operation for at least a half-century, and everything from salty porridge with soy-braised pork to pork-rib soup is a local classic. To sit under a shady tree with other patrons, tucking into a piping-hot dish, is to experience the life local common folk have lived for many decades. Also in Dadaocheng is Yongle Market (永樂市場); visit after 11 am to explore this grand bazaar of fabrics, as well as its food-court area, home to A-Fa’s Snack Shop (阿發小吃店) and A-Wen’s Keelung Seafood (阿文基隆海產), both featured in Luc Besson’s film Lucy, which has made them places of pilgrimage for movie fans.

Beside Exit 2 of MRT Shuanglian Station (捷運雙連 站), you’ll see the 300~400 meter-long Shuanglian Vegetable Market (雙連菜市場). From 7 to 8 each morning grandmoms and moms pack the place, which in addition to selling the freshest fruits and vegetables, chicken, duck, and other meats, even offers manicures and traditional face-hair removal called wanmian (挽面) or “facial threading.” Shuanglian Market (雙連市場), a public market in a 4-storey building, has sellers of plants and flowers, antiques, and fresh fruits and veggies, plus something most unusual – a youth hostel. The bright, fresh CU Hotel Taipei (西悠飯店台北店), on the second floor, is a model example of old-market rejuvenation.

Wanhua District Morning Markets – Home of One of the “World’s Best Vendors”

The Wanhua District was the first area to be settled in what is today Taipei. At its heart are Manka Lungshan Temple (艋舺龍山寺), Bangka Qingshan Temple (艋舺青山宮), and Bangka Qingshui Zushi Temple (艋舺清水巖祖師廟), and other venerable places of worship. The East Sanshui Street Market (東三水街菜市場), also known as the Xinfu Market (新富市場), was built and has been in operation since 1921, and many businesses have been passed on from generation to generation. One renowned example is Da Fong Fish Ball (大豐魚丸店), which offers many different types of wonderfully fresh and chewy fish balls, meatballs, squid balls, etc., all made by hand and only to order. Grandma’s Sticky Rice (阿婆油飯), which cooks its rice with wooden bamboo steamers, once placed third in the “World’s Best Vendor” (天下第一 攤) competition held by Taipei City Government. Nearby Wanhe Sashimi (丸合生魚片) brings in the fresh catch of the day each day from wholesale markets in Keelung (基隆), and Donggang Township, Pingtung County (屏東 縣東港鎮). Each of these spots prepares super-popular delicacies at affordable prices.

On Kangding Road (康定路) you’ll find Zhixing Market (直興市場), where the stands selling fresh meats, sashimi, and fruits are most popular. The “Yangmingshan Farms ” ( 陽明山農場) stand, a seller of many different in-season fresh vegetables, has an extra special place in shoppers’ hearts. Mama Zhang’s Chicken Shop (張媽媽雞肉鋪) is another wellknown and very popular vendor; its salted chicken and sugarcane chicken are prepared each evening for sale next day, first cooked and then smoked using sugarcane skin, rendering the meat succulently tender. The shop is always busy with customers placing take-out orders to enjoy back home.

A New Kind of Morning Market – Like a Mini Department Store

In recent years a number of old Taipei markets have taken on a completely new atmosphere with the help of government planners. Emphasis has been on better flow lines and redesigned lighting, giving visitors the feeling of browsing a small department store. Huguang Market (湖光市場) is Neihu’s oldest vendor-stall market, selling fresh fish, meats, fruits, and vegetables, as well as many regionalspecialties, dry goods, sundries, etc. Among the most popular shops selling yummy snacks here are Ding Ding Sesame Cakes (鼎鼎燒餅) and Xieji Zhenbao Food Village (謝記珍寶食品莊). Elsewhere, Nanmen Market (南門市場) on Roosevelt Road (羅斯福路) is one of Taipei’s oldest traditional public markets. The first floor is choc-a-bloc with regional specialty goods, while the second floor has clothing and the basement level is a wet market. You’ll find northern Chinese flavored pastries and puddings, regional specialty items, and many well-known sauces and prepared foods. If you make time to go, be sure to visit the Shanghai Hexing Rice Cake Shop (上海合興糕糰店), Yi-chang’s Imperial Workshop (億長御坊), and Yi Xiang Zhai (逸湘齋), where craftsmanship and long tradition are on proud display.

Markets Morning and Night – Fun Browsing the Whole Day Long

Morning markets customarily shut down in the afternoon. But sometimes, generally in favorable locations, business continues beyond this, as the area becomes a distinctly different night market. Jingmei Market (景美市場), close to Shih Hsin University (世新大學), and Zhonglun Market (中崙市場) on Bade Road (八德路), both see streams of shoppers from the early morning onward, and at about 7 pm each market transforms into a foodie mecca for students finishing classes and white-collar workers leaving the office. Both markets have been in operation for about 50 years, and of course each offers its own renowned specialties. At Jingmei Market, be sure to visit Gaoji Rice Noodle Soup (高記米粉湯), and Shanghai Pan-Fried Pork Buns (上海生煎包). At Zhonglun Market don’t miss A-Mei’s Madou Bowl Pudding (阿美麻豆碗粿) and Zhonglun Rice Noodle Soup (中崙米粉湯). All are delicious early-morning taste-bud energizers, all worth a visit.

Solon, the ancient Greek statesman and poet, once said, “The purpose of travel is to ‘see.’ To see is to promote understanding and appreciation of the other peoples, cultures, and places.” Walk Taipei's morning markets, observe the Taipei culture, taste the flavors of the city, enjoy its hospitality, and you'll see that its dynamism and vitality is already up-and-running early each morning.

]]>Tue, 17 Mar 2015 16:00:00 GMThttps://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=E2EAD3BDAD47F41F&s=6E7D5E50B6E96337Launched in 1997, the Taipei Flower Market (台北花 市) was Taiwan’s first privately-run flower market, and also the largest market in the country. This amazingly colorful and fragrant place has called Ruiguang Road (瑞光路) in Neihu District its home for 17 years. However, times change. The original market site will become the Taipei Cloud Computing Industrial Park (臺 北市雲端產業園區), and the flower market was moved to the Xinhu 3rd Road (新湖三路) commercial district (about 2 kilometers from the original location) in March this year. The market now runs along either side of Minshan Street (民善街). The architecture is rainbow-like in color and modernistic in style, and the canvas awnings of the old site have been discarded. A new city landmark close to other major hypermarkets, and a venue with value placed on landscaping and leisure enjoyment, the Taipei Flower Market has a brand new character and ambience.

The market’s new home is a better one, covering 2.8 hectares in area, with room for 286 stands in two buildings, connected by a scenery-enhancing sky bridge. The extra space allows for clearer product-area differentiation, helping customers more easily identify where the items they need are located. There is now also a food-court zone where shoppers can enjoy a rest. The key difference between the Taipei Flower Market and Jianguo Holiday Flower Market (建國假日花市) is their operation times. The first is open on weekdays, from 4 am to noon. Because the Taipei Flower Market engages in both wholesale and retail sales, it is an important source for city flower shops. On a visit to the market you are immersed in a splendid world of flowers and plants of mind-boggling variety, and can often dig up treasures at wonderfully low prices. The crowds have been big since the move, and the heightened spaciousness and comfort has brought plaudits from both vendors and visitors. In addition, the newly introduced computerized auction and sales/distribution services have put the market on a par with such global flower powers as the Netherlands and Japan.

You are hereby cordially invited to come for a browse around the Taipei Flower Market in its new home, enjoying the world of floral beauty in a venue providing much greater space and comfort.

Free and Easy Ambience

The market is the child of well-known Taiwan designer Eugene Yeh (葉裕清), man of music Harlem Yu (庾澄慶), and a group of like-minded friends with big dreams and a love of design, collector’s items, music, and play. Yeh has employed a variety of recycled materials, using wooden pallets for the walls of restaurants, old cargo containers to house small eateries, and discarded military tents and iron frames to create sunshades and display racks. The design is eco-friendly yet still chic and stylish. Adjacent to the market is a carousel, adding to the atmosphere of youthful play. The square has quickly become a popular draw with both adults and kids.

Visitors immediately notice the slow pace and the laid-back, casual foreign-style atmosphere. Yeh says that the original idea was not specifically to engender an international atmosphere, but simply to provide travelers with an alternative leisure space. Integrated with the surrounding green environment, it offers a distinctive bazaar-style selection of restaurants, small shops and vendor stalls, offering the public an oasis of calm andrelaxed comfort.

Fine Foods and GreatShopping

In addition to the small food-court style eateries and creative market outlets, Yeh – a lover of fine foods and spirits – has attracted a number of international restaurants that serve gourmet foods accessible to average diners. Among these are the Butcher’s Kitchen(肉舖廚房), purveyor of prime thick-cut steaks, The Three Lions Inn (三隻獅子英國餐廳), which specializes inauthentic English fare, and Thai Lao Yeh (太老爺), wheregenuine Thai village cuisine is prepared. Tourists cantravel the world via their palates without leaving thesquare.

Most of the market’s chic boutiques are the only outlets in Taiwan. The kid-popular Brick Works (樂高親子積木主題咖啡館), for example, is a shop filled with LEGO toys and models of desserts made from building blocks – as well as with children’s laughter. Good Music (好感音樂) displays and sells a dizzying selection of vinyl records and valuable vintage audio equipment. The owner’s collection tops 10,000 records, so there’s little wonder why this store has become something of a magnet forcollectors.

The three-room A. JUST shop contains treasures that Yeh has collected over years of world travels, such as blue-and-white porcelains, old Japanese collectibles, industrial furniture, and vintage suitcases. The market square also has an agricultural-product emporium, Maji Food & Deli (神農市場). Yeh’s passion for food is accompanied by a passion for cooking, and though having lived in Bangkok for almost 20 years, he heads to traditional markets for all kinds of locally crafted sauces whenever back to Taipei. Maji food & Deli collectsthe best of Taiwan farm products, as well as foods, ingredients and sauces from Taipei’s Nanmen Market (南門市場), providing a one-stop shopping venue for foodloving
visitors.

Each Saturday and Sunday evening, musical groups perform in the square’s covered outdoor plaza. So come on out on a weekend afternoon, enjoy some browsing followed by a pleasant meal, then settle in for somesoothing evening music.

During the Japanese colonial era (1895-1945), the authorities acted with vigor to improve environmental sanitation and stop the spread of infectious diseases. In 1913 a public market facility was built here, and the area's itinerant vendors were brought under one roof. The structure was made of red brick and had a wooden frame, with arched galleries running down either side inthe central area, and a courtyard in the middle. Major reconstruction of the location was launched in 2002, with vendors moved to a nearby temporary facility, where the futuristic Taipei Performing Arts Center will now go up. The vendors moved“back”into their new digs late last year.

The Shilin Night Market is Taiwan's traditionalstyle market with the longest opening hours. The use of“night”in the name is in fact incorrect; the market's night-time food vendors quickly became well-known in the old days, and people mistakenly assumed this was a night market. In fact you can find fun and culinary satisfaction here all through the day, from morning until late at night.

The back of the new Shilin Market opens up onto the plaza fronting venerable Cixian Temple. The facility sits within a larger commercial area bracketed by Danan Road, Dadong Road, and Wenlin Road, making it Taipei's largest night-market district. The new market structure is an attractive, modernistic architectural work, although the original Japanese-era arched galleries have been retained, the red-brick walls, arched portals and windows, and wooden roof adding a warm, nostalgicair and creating a pleasant mix of old and new. The new market is impressively large, housing 380 vendors, who
continue to work using their original three-shift system.

The first level i s divided into three sections: the“heritage long building,"“heritage short building,”and the central-area, the“steel shed.” In the long building is found a general marketplace, with vendors selling sundry goods. In the short building the majority of vendors hawk fresh seafood in an area which looks, feels, and sounds like Taiwan's classic old-style markets. The steel shed area between the two is busy in the morning with vendors selling fresh meats, vegetables, and fruits along with general merchandise, while in the afternoons sellers of daily-use items, snack foods, and souvenirs take over. There is also a large underground food court below all this, with the same type of open-concept, non-partitioned layout used in the original market. This layout preserves the timeless, unobstructed layout and sensory experience of the traditional Taiwan night market for tourists, with the environment“updated”to modern standards for cleanliness and brightness.

It has always been the hot food vendors that have been the big draw at the Shilin“Night”Market, and this tradition continues on the underground level at the new Shilin Market – all the snack-food purveyors from the old temporary facility have moved in. You'll find all the great names that have so long been synonymous with the market, in all its guises, among them“little bun wrapped in big bun,"“coffin cakes,”thick squid soup, oyster omelets, fried beefsteak, Shilin sausages, and medicinal pork-ribs. The same owners are all still here, serving up the same smiling faces and familiar
old-time tastes.

The new Shilin Market is open all day, every day, and is just a 7-minute walk from MRT Jiantan Station. After feasting on traditional Taiwanese treats, be sure to hit the surrounding area's streets and alleys for some serious browsing!

]]>Mon, 15 Aug 2011 16:00:00 GMThttps://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=E2EAD3BDAD47F41F&s=BE5104134C9FF8E2The venerable Shuiyuan Market, located in the Gongguan commercial district, is approaching its 60th birthday. Recently, the market has undergone quite a change. The old and shabby walls have been given new life donning 177 different color hues, with blue predominant, arranged in geometric patterns to create a grand work of public art. The work, which has been christened “The Heart of Shuiyuan,” is based on the 3D work Polymorph by Israeli experimental artist Yaacov Agam, who specializes in optical and kinetic art.

This novel marriage of architecture and art can be admired from three angles—from the front and the two sides—bringing three entirely different perspectives. From one a rainbow gradually forms over the sea. From another sparkles of light skip over waves striped in blues and whites. And from another you see the refraction of light on the surface of a shimmering, sparkling sea. These symbolize the grand and multifarious cultural mix that defines Taipei's personality, and at the same time are a nod to the origin of the name “Shuiyuan,”( lit. water source) a seemingly endless supply of water. The artist has also brought the concept of “time” into the mix, creating a dynamic aesthetic that is able to interact with the viewer—as you move to different positions, the images seem to seamlessly move and transform, changing along with your perspective.

]]>Sun, 01 Aug 2010 16:00:00 GMThttps://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=E2EAD3BDAD47F41F&s=A9D125CE2A7E5817Around the world demand is sharply increasing for organic farm products free of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Organic products are free of various chemical substances that can harm us, and also protect our natural environment from pollution. More and more consumers are turning to the organic option, despite the higher prices caused by the greater time investments and smaller production quantities involved.

According to the Agriculture and Food Agency, in order to ensure the selection of genuine organic products in Taiwan, you must go right back to the “birth” of the product. In addition to checking if pesticides or chemical fertilizers are used, the grower's use of other materials, water, and type of land must be verified. Only if all such qualifications are met can the country's TAP (Taiwan/Traceability Agricultural Product) labelling be attached.

Taiwan currently has 12 recognized organic agricultural product certification bodies. Qualified produce must display its certification ID number, and must also have the official CAS (Certified Agricultural Standards) labelling for organic Taiwanese produce displayed (as shown above). Consumers just have to see the CAS label to know their choice has received verification as a Taiwan Premium Agricultural Product.

More consumers are now choosing to go direct to organic farmers for their purchases, relying on the personal guarantee of the producer and his explanation of the production methods used for reassurance. Establishing such personal relationships brings both farm-freshness and a sense of security.

There has been a renaissance of farmers' markets in the urban centers of the West over the past few decades, the US offering such well-known examples as Manhattan's Union Square Greenmarket and Belmont Market in California. Taipei can now boast its own. The founder of the 248 Market, Yang Ru-men, says that a couple of years ago he visited a famers' market in Hong Kong and was highly impressed. He decided to set up a similar outdoor market in Taipei and chose the motto: Nontoxic, Safe, Friendly.

Yang's goal is to bring Taiwan's farming folk and consumers in direct contact. The market has a strict prohibition on any chemicals in products sold; everything is guaranteed bio-organic. Producers must also serve as shepherds of the soil, using only eco-friendly cultivation techniques. Though in the short-term this may very well decrease production quantity, over the long-term this ensures the health of the land and sustainable development. For the consumers, the quality of their fruits and vegetables is guaranteed.

When you head over to the 248 Market, you may well be greeted by a shout from a lady to come over and try some of her pancakes with toon-sprout. Or maybe some of her turmeric rice. You'll find popsicles made with fresh fruits for sale, with refreshing blends of sweetness and sourness. You'll stroll past stalls hawking cabbage, sugarcane, sweet potatoes, and tofu with the farmers chatting amiably with browsers. You'll be offered free samples of mulberry jams and perilla plums by vendors who handled the whole cultivating process starting with the planting of the seed. The vendors will also offer advice on how to best use them to add a bit of zest to your meals. Here, in the midst of the busy city, you'll find a tasty and refreshing slice of the countryside.

Information

248 Market Hours: Fri 14:00-20:00, Sat 10:00-17:00 Location: Lane 248, Sec. 4, Zhongxiao E. Rd. (open space at Pacific onstruction Co. employee parking lot) Hours: Sun 13:00-19:00 Location: 258 Jihe Rd. (plaza at HOLA Home Furnishings outlet) Website: www.248.com.tw (Chinese) Agriculture and Food Agency, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan Website: http://www.afa.gov.tw/ii_en.aspx?pcatid=1&ycatid=1

Enthusiastic Interchange with Expatriate Residents

Tianmu has long been an enclave for foreign residents, and in more recent times many overseas Chinese have set up home here after deciding to come to Taiwan to work. Visit the area and you'll notice a distinct air of international cosmopolitanism, a veritable ferment of the best of all cultures. About four or five years ago local residents began emulating popular practice in the West, gathering up needless items that were still useful and spontaneously forming weekend flea markets so they could be reused. Over time, Tianmu Market arose and slowly took formal shape.

In the early days the market was exclusively a gathering for second-hand goods, but what was special was that though there were few old antique items and curios of value there was a wealth of quality clothing and other items from all around the globe. And in comparison to the city's other flea markets, this one sported many quite novel items from lands far away that encapsulated the unique cultural flair of different peoples. Among buyers and sellers many different languages could be heard and numerous skin colors seen, making a visit to Tianmu Market seems like visiting a foreign land. Local folks have found the ambiance exhilarating and exotic, and folks from overseas revel in the intimacy and cordiality.

More recently Tianmu Market has broken the mold once again and grown significantly in scale, bringing in young musical groups to add to the color already provided by the many regular sellers' stands and on occasion having purveyors of fresh handmade cookies, cakes, and other pastry goodies register stands. If you come on a Friday night you'll see the market takes on the look of a traditional Taiwan night-market, showing off the island's timeless cultural essence while at the same time sporting the flavors of an international cultural carnival. What you'll find here you'll not find anywhere else on the island, and this also demonstrates the city's character of being extremely eclectic to foreigners and foreign cultures.

Excavating the Newest in Taipei Originality

Tianmu Market has transformed itself from a flea market to a display showcase for creative originality, stuffed to the rafters with goods that show tremendous color, youthful vigor and spirit, and unexpected, head-wagging character and individuality. There are also many items that bring modernistic flair to what is familiar from the past, unique folk merchandise particularly pleasing to visiting foreign travelers. Many items are “mixed-blood” hybrids, fusing elements from different cultures to create something dynamically original. Many now see Tianmu Market as the most intriguing, adventurous, and bustling stage for cultural/ creative goods in the metropolis.

At “Yi Li Liang Yong” (lit.“One Piece Two Uses”), using the principle of building blocks, colored square woodblocks can be used to build up patterns or hung as decorations, as you wish. At “Hong Shuo Creativity,” the creative thought comes from Canada and the production is done in Taiwan. Lovely model items blended the ideas of scale miniatures and dollhouses so popular in the West. At “Paper Purses” the creative types bring the technique used in traditional Taiwan oil-paper umbrellas, which are both exquisitely beautiful and rainproof, to change purses, catching the eye of many browsing travelers. At “Mid-Autumn Fabric Shop” people- and environment-friendly printing ink is used to create traditional folk-style patterns printed on cotton and hemp fabrics to create attractive cloth paintings, pillowcases, hanging decorations, and other items that are simple and earthy yet compellingly unique. At “Light Travels” you'll be thrilled by the meticulously hand-painted lampshades, at “Zan Zan Zi Xi” you'll wade through waves of, yes, lovely hand-sculptured hairpins, as well as cellphone charms, metal-work decorations, fashion-design items, and very much more. The imagination flows with abandon at Tianmu Market, and you'd only feel it when you come yourself.

The market has 170 stalls in total. Fifty are given over to creative goods, and 120 occupy the flea-market space. Each week a few stalls are reserved for special theme use; they may be stocked with anime items, for example, or may be used by kids as “practice” stalls where they can interact with people. There have even been "sweetheart” stalls set up, operated by unmarried couples that have been specially invited, and other unique themes. Beyond adding even more fun to the festive atmosphere, this ensures that each time you visit you have a brand-new experience.

Bringing even that much more novelty to the goings-on is the market's “Freestyle Outdoor Stage,” at which open-air music shows are given, something you definitely don't see at other traditional-style markets. On each market day about five groups take the stage, performing rock and roll, pop, electronic, indigenous, and music done by the band itself, showing the innovation and enthusiasm of Taipei youth and giving music lovers a forum for creative exchange. Perhaps Tianmu's greatest attraction is its gift for selecting disparate elements of myriad different cultures and blending them into a harmonious whole that is completely and refreshingly new—one of the main reasons international travelers give for their attraction to this city as a whole. The Tianmu Market is, you'll see, a grand stage for this city's attraction and willingness to absorb all things new from around the globe, for the showing off of this city's rapid internationalization, and for the affection the people of this city have for the global village.

Setting Up a Stall No age limit or other personal restrictions are in place. Stall registration commences every odd-numbered Mon at 09:00 (e-mail: weekendtianmu@gmail.com), on a first come, first serve basis; list of successful registrants announced Wed night at 11:00; maximum total of 170 stalls. Creative market set-up fees: NT$350 for Fri night, NT$1,000 for Sat and Sun; includes tent. Flea market set-up fees: NT$150 for Fri night, NT$350 for Sat full day, NT$250 for Sun night; no tent included.

Information

Website: www.tainmu.org.tw (Chinese) Transportation: MRT Shipai Station on Tamsui Line, transfer to bus No. Red 12 or Red 15, get off at Tianmu Square stop or Sanyu Temple stop.

Shidong Market opened its doors for business in 1992. Being the latest-established market in Taipei, it sports a more advanced design and modernistic environment than other comparable traditional-style markets. One of its more unique characteristics is the combination of Chinese and Western characteristics and flavors. The market is located in the foreign-expat enclave of Tianmu, resulting in a range of goods for sale of unusual breadth. Unusually, this market also offers a cool air-conditioning system to chase away the steamy and sticky summer air, and the interior design is such that you may sometimes feel you're ambling through a supermarket rather than a traditional market. All this leads to the public impression that Shidong Market is a “five-star model” market in Taipei.

A Fresh Market Catering to the Needs of All Different Nationalities

The first level of Shidong Market is dedicated to fresh seafood, fruit and vegetables, and sundry goods. We recommend that foreign visitors first make a stop at “Grass Songs Healthy Fruit and Vegetable Drinks,” for an invigorating refreshment fresh squeezed and blended only upon ordering. Fruit juice in hand, your “window-shopping” session launched, you'll find the first level choc-a-bloc with visually distinctive shops mixed among the fishmongers and meat sellers, creating quite the exotic stage setting. Check out the “Flagship Stands” first; these are four booths brought together as one selling-point with the support of the Dept. of Commerce, Ministry of Economic Affairs. Meat products, vegetables, fruits, and fresh flowers are sold here—the perfect all-purpose shopping destination for folks pressed for time, with most everything you might need in one location. This type of convenience defines Shidong Market's great attraction, and again with the support and guidance of the Commerce Department the Flagship Stands have created catchy signboards, displays, and decoration/ packaging; all these, along with product quality, are now judged against strict evaluation criteria. A visit to the Flagship Stands is a very pleasant experience, with their bright and friendly facade and their neat and tidy interior set-up, so very different from the general impression of disorderly crowding many people have regarding traditional markets. This, then, is a browsing environment that cannot but please the traveler/ shopper interested in local-style shopping habits.

At “Master A-Ji's Japanese Foods” you find classics from Japan such as the freshest sashimi and hand-formed sushi. It follows the Japanese common-folk custom of standing while eating. The delicious tastes bring a constant stream of hungry people, and the mix of diners standing about eating mixed with the line-up of soon-to-be diners patiently waiting creates a very interesting tableau—Japanese style. Nearby you'll find “Sihang Warehouse,” the name referring to a famous battle in the 1937 Battle of Shanghai. The shop front is a wonderful nod to nostalgia, and the refined furnishings and decorations within attract many appreciative visitors. Here you'll find goods from around the globe, with rice selections and other grains from dozens of lands. You'll find the national flags of the US, Japan, Thailand, and other countries flying from the sides of the rice bins, and even characters of each land written out, pleasingly creating a sort of mini “United Nations of grain.”

Next up is “123 Dumplings,” in place here for 16 years. Its dumplings are all made by hand, and there is splendid variety—dumplings with oat-flour skins and minced-pork stuffing, scallop dumplings, and fish dumplings. Each yummy nugget is dainty yet also fat with stuffing. The “Wei Ji” menu features fresh and delicious black pork in all offerings—dumplings, pot stickers, wontons, and more. Each and every one of these treats is tremendously popular, keeping customers arriving at the market in droves.

The Refined Second Floor Favorite with Ladies of Quality

The second level is dedicated to snack meals and drinks, general merchandise, antiques, and jewelry. The savory snack treats range from stir-fry dishes, lurou fan (rice with soy-stewed pork) and qiezai mian (noodles in soup with braised minced meat) to Western favorites such as steaks. There are also sweet treats such as tangyuan ( glutinous-rice flour stuffed dumplings in soup) and hongdou guiyuan zhou ( lit., red bean longan porridge). After browsing your fill on the first level, proceed to the second for some revitalizing snack treasures; the character of the second level is a world away from that of the first, filled with stimulating surprises.

Most of the clothes shops on the second floor feature imported women's attire, with selections from Europe to Japan. Great attention has been paid to the unique character of the interior decoration, attracting a steady flow of Japanese resident in Tianmu in particular. You'll also notice quite a few jewelry outlets on the second level, with curtains at times drawn down low to accommodate VIP customers in for viewings. These sellers are strict about maintaining the anonymity of their clientele, and provide professional, personalized delivery services. The result is a noticeably loyal corps of discerning Tianmu-based buyers. Foreign visitors and expatriates with an eye for Chinese antiques should take note that there are a number of antique shops here that specialize in Buddhist statues, antiques, and a wide variety of other expertly hand-crafted items, perfect for those Asian artifact hunters.

Those visiting Shidong Market for the first time are always struck by the difference in character between the two levels. Perhaps these differences can be seen as an accurate reflection of the overall Tianmu character, which exhibits great variation, absorbing the best from many cultures and demonstrating elegant style without affectation. According to one of the market's merchants, “Among our many customers, Japanese form the largest group, Westerners from Europe and North America come next and, surprisingly enough, local Taiwanese are fewest.” You might say Shidong Market is a reflection of Tianmu in miniature, and it must certainly be said this market is a must-visit spot to grasp the essential character of Tianmu living.

The Chinese New Year approaches, and age-old tradition beckons. New clothes are being bought, symbolizing fresh beginnings. Spring couplets are going up, offering blessings. Auspicious symbol-laden items are being placed strategically around homes, inviting in wealth and good fortune. Another favorite thing to do is buy flowers and plants to freshen up the home and sprout the new fortunes of the new spring. Planting a kumquat tree in your home symbolizes the growing of gold and wealth. The Chinese sacred lily is the representation of elegance and purity, often blooming during the Chinese New Year. The pronunciation of silver willow sounds just like the Taiwanese pronunciation for yin liang , the old coinage. The sword lily (gladiolus), because its flowers bloom from bottom to top, carries the lucky phrase bu bu gao sheng,“step by step ever higher.”These symbolic plants will plant the roots of good fortune in your home as soon as you bring them home.

The Jianguo Holiday Flower Market is located under the Jianguo Expressway, along Jianguo South Road. Every weekend the giant fecund fair springs to life and visitors appear in great hordes as if by magic. This is a great place for expatriate and foreign travelers to check out Taipei-style living during Chinese Lunar New Year; immerse yourself in the happy hustle and bustle of the season, check out just what flowers and plants are in demand at this time, and maybe even bring home one of the inexpensive Malabar chestnut (money tree) yourself to put in your entranceway and symbolically lure more wealth into your bank account.The pronunciation of the first character in“butterfly orchid,”for example, is similar to that for “good fortune and happiness.” The peony has long been known as the“flower of riches and honor.” All the decorations needed to fill your place with the joyous ambiance of Chinese New Year tradition is just a quick and very convenient shopping spree away.

The flower market stretches almost half a kilometer and spans more than 8000 square meters. You'll find over 200 seller's booths to inspect. People come in droves each weekend, just to enjoy the sweet colors and scents, many to buy, the place becoming one of Taipei's most popular gardens of activity. To welcome in the new year, the Chinese Floricultural Foundationand the Jianguo Holiday Flower Market Self-Management Committeewill stage the“2010 Spring Festival Flower Market and Yatsuka Peony Exhibition”from Feb. 6~11. The star Yatsuka Peony hails from Shimane Prefecture in Japan and is beloved the world over. The lovely, delicate peony is loaded with auspicious“wealth and social position”symbolism, and will be presented in colorful and creative ways during the show.

Right beside the flower market is the popular Taipei Jianguo Jade Market , featuring around 300 sellers, where you'll almost always see folks from overseas happily browsing. Many choose to take home an auspicious ruyi , a lucky talisman many locals will hang around their neck. Ruyi translates literally as“as you wish,”inviting good fortune. Another popularselection is a jade Buddha, which also invitesgood fortune and drives off evil spirits. You'll alsofind countless other items made of jade, includingexquisite necklaces, cellphone charms, and muchmore. All you need to bring in a full year of good luck iswaiting for you to come find it!

Information

Taipei Jianguo Holiday Flower Market Add: Under the Jianguo Expressway, section between Ren'ai and Xinyi roads Tel: (02) 2707-0612 Website: www.fafa.org.tw (Chinese) Hours: Sat-Sun 09:00~18:00, not open Mon-Fri There will be special hours before Chinese New Year, Feb. 6～Feb. 12 09:00~22:00 and Feb. 13 09:00~18:00 Transportation: Bus No. 0 East, 20, 22, 38, 204, and Xinyi line buses, to stop at Xinyi Jianguo roads intersection Taipei Jianguo Jade Market Add: Under the Jianguo Expressway, section between Ren'ai and Jinan roads Tel: (02) 2708-5931 (Mon/Wed/Fri) Hours: Sat 09:00~20:00, Sun 09:00~18:00, not open Mon-Fri Transportation: Bus No. 37, 226, 245, 261, 263, 270, 311, 621, 630, 651, 665 to stop at Ren'ai Jianguo roads intersection

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Sporting new clothes, new shoes, new hats, and creating a whole new atmosphere, is the age-old Chinese tradition in the Lunar New Year. This requires busy pre-holiday shopping for Taiwan's families, a key and much-loved seasonal activity. If you want to to see all the fun as local folk get down to the business of buying new clothes and shoes, a day at Chengzhong Market and Yuanling Street is a grand idea. These together constitute a bargain-shopping paradise long in place and much visited, a busy place where you'll blend right into the traditional Lunar New Year shopping experience and— who knows?—maybe come out of it with a whole new wardrobe for yourself and your family.

The location is between Taipei Main Station and 228 Peace Memorial Park. Yuanling St. took shape way back in the Qing Dynasty, and in the 1970s evolved as a bazaar of shops specializing in shoes. What is officially referred to as Yuanling Street Shopping Area includes all of Yuanling St. and the area around each mouth at Chongqing S. Rd. and Bo'ai Rd., with nearly 40 specialty shops selling every style and make of shoes you might be hankering for. The selection is stupendous, prices very reasonable, and you'll not only find all the best made-in-Taiwan home-grown products, but in recent times more and more famed international brands have been introduced, along with factory outlet centers. From children's shoes to leather shoes for adults, from sports shoes to fabric shoes, and even to specialty footgear such as corrective footwear, if you want it, Yuanling St. has no doubt got it.

After you've got your shoes, you'll have to pick out the rest of your outfit, won't you! We're off to Chengzhong Market! With Lane 22 of Sec. 1 of Wuchang St. as its core, the so-called “Ladies' Street” spreads out before you here. Everything a lady could desire is at her fingertips—clothing and adornments, cups and bowls and ladles and pots, quilts and furnishings, and a whole world more, are available here. Though prices are already low, sellers are willing to haggle on a range of goods, enjoying the friendly back-and-forth bargain. Various items are available at super-low knockdown prices, notably clothing goods sold from bulk bins for as little as NT$100-200, generally out-of-season articles and famous-brand merchandise with labels removed. Pleasant, unexpected buying opportunities can sometimes pop up this way. If you're looking for insight into Taiwan living in the genuine local way and find out what are considered life's necessities, or if you're intent on digging out shopping treasure, Chengzhong Market is hard to beat.

Because of its proximity to so many important government buildings, in days gone by the wives of high officials frequently came to browse the offerings at Chengzhong Market. Today you can still find shops selling traditional formal attire such as cheongsam, cotton-padded jackets, and exquisitely embroidered shoes. These are fine ideas for classy and highly unusual mementoes of your time spent in Taiwan, all available at very agreeable prices, and these shops can fulfill any special requirements you have. The traditional embroidered shoes are very distinctive, each pair coming with delicate designs such as peonies or dragon and phoenix motifs that carry auspicious symbolic meaning, a must-buy for members of Taiwan's elder generation when readying for the Lunar New Year in the old days.

Information

Chengzhong Market Location: Area between south-end mouth of Lane 22, Sec. 1, Wuchang St. and Yuanling St., parallel to Chongqing S. Rd. Transportation: http://www.nhsports.com.tw/ Bus No. 12, 202, 221, 250, 252, or 262 to Zhonghua Rd. North Stop, then go left and walk a short distance along Wuchang St. http://www.nhsports.com.tw/

]]>Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:00:00 GMThttps://english.gov.taipei/News_Content.aspx?n=E2EAD3BDAD47F41F&s=15C88D946D06469CWhen you need some new clothes, something attractive, daring, sleek, trendy, and inexpensive, where in the world can you go? The Wufenpu Garment District, that's where! It's laid out before Songshan Railway Station; on the north side is Songlong Rd., on the south is Yongji Rd., on the west is Songshan Rd., on the east Zhongpo N. Rd. In this concentrated area are stuffed with more than 1,000 outlets selling fashionable clothing and accessories from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, and other countries. This is the place to be if you enjoy shopping with various styles and a lot of options at a very reasonable cost. So, trust us when we say you really can't miss out on this discovery you've just made.

"Wufenpu" translates literally as “five parcels of land.” In early Qing Dynasty pioneering days when all about was uncultivated, five families of different surnames from Anxi County in Mainland China's Fujian Province settled on this land—hence the place name. In its early years the Wufenpu Garment District was filled with manufacturers of ready-made clothing, transforming after 1980 into a veritable camp for wholesalers. This is the region's key spot for street vendors to come looking for new items to sell. You'll frequently see such buyers, from all over the country, moving about hauling giant shopping bags. They move up and down the lanes and alleys within row upon row of shops, hunting for the perfect choices at the perfect low prices. All the shops here also welcome regular folk like you and me, shopping in small quantities, so don't worry, and the prices you'll get will still be much below regular market prices. This can be as much as NT$50~100 on the low end or up to NT$800~1,000 on the high end. Locals are always on the lookout for celebrities, who are also known to come here to dig for new-fashion treasure. Dresses, pants, skirts, belts, shoes, bags and purses—from head to toe, all you might dream of is here on display, so feel free to create your own style.

Over the years, virtually every shop in the district has switched to the trade, and you'll see clothing and accessories from all countries and styles in bursting displays. A variety of styles all seem to be on display at once and this is precisely why devoted shoppers love to come here. Not only will you find girls' fashions from Japan and Korea, upscale ladies' fashions from Europe and North America, but also hip-hop, punk, street, athletic wear, even the clothing of the region's ethnic minorities. There are also cute kiddies' garments, sentimental old-style goodies for the grandma crowd, classy gentlemen's apparel, and specialist seller of shoes, hats, and decorations. There's much for all age groups and tastes here, and you'll most definitely be joined by crowds of eager shoppers from each and every one of these age and taste groups.

Songshan Jinan Temple on Alley 8, Lane 517, Yongji Rd. is the home of the garment district's guardian deity. The vendors in front sell delicious traditional snack treats such as crispy chicken steak, Cantonese congee, braised noodles, tapioca balls, and hot herbal jelly. You'll always find busy shoppers here replenishing their tanks with yummies before heading out for another round. Most of the shops in Wufenpu Garment District are open from around noon to about midnight. So get out to Wufenpu today for just the things to show off your trend-setting ways, at prices that show you're oozing with smarts too.

"Taiwanese are absolute gourmets. Therefore it really isn't hard to find where the good food is. Just find the longest line and add yourself to the queue!" James frequently snakes around the endless vendors within Ningxia Night Market with his wife, hopscotching between vendors with long lines. Like a true Taiwanese, many traditional grain-based snacks have stolen his heart. Braised-pork rice, chicken rice, oyster omelets, followed up with sweet mochi, crispy taro cake, or red-bean cake, makes James feel even more reassured that it was his inevitable destiny to be a "son-in-law of Taiwan."

Vendor Stalls Streetside and Street-Middle—A Grand Bazaar of North/South Snack Foods

After a long day of work, a stroll down the night market while getting your favorite food, and only spending a fraction of what you will usually spend at a restaurant, yet satisfying your grumbling belly is, in fact, the epitome of Taiwanese night market culture. With more than 60 years of history, Ningxia Night Market used to sell garments and accessories. But with the emergence of large department stores and hyper markets, traditional snack food vendors quickly replaced the garment stores, resulting in the Ningxia Night Market we have today.

The head of the Ningxia Night Market Cooperative Association, Lai Bing-xun, says that “When you come to Ningxia, you're coming here to eat. We have over 200 stands, and the vast majority sell eats. Some have been selling in the same spot for 30 to 40 years, and even have the second generation of the same family running them.” Ningxia Road runs about 300 meters; there are stalls along the streetside and mid-street, and beyond streetside are the shop facades. Together, they sell an amazing collection of Taiwanese treats originating from all corners of the land. Lai proudly notes that this is not only the unique street market licensed by Taipei City Government, but also primarily dedicated to the selling of food.

Information

Transportation Exit MRT Shuanglian Station and head down Minsheng W. Rd. toward Chengde Rd. Turn right at Ningxia Rd.; the market lies directly ahead.

Each day, the crowds come streaming into the market as the street lights are turned on. To heighten the quality of the visitor's experience, the city government has established a pedestrian-only venue and worked closely with the vendors to introduce a grease interceptor that keeps grease from entering the sewage system, thus eliminating hygiene-related problems. In 2008, another public-health program was launched to promote the use of eco-friendly chopsticks. Booth staff are also encouraged to wear red uniforms, heightening even further the overall visual appeal of the market. Ningxia most certainly has a solid case to declare itself the city's most “eco-friendly night market”.

The Market Administration Office has great news for night market fans! Ningxia Street Night Market accepts reservations for “snack banquet” – a banquet featuring top delicacies from the various booths at the night market, all at your table!

For those who prefer to relax and save themselves the trouble of having to wait in line at the individual booths, the “snack banquet” option allows consumers to enjoy the delicious specialties of the night market at a clean and tidy environment, without having to suffer the hassle of queuing.

The snack banquet features well-known night market favorites such as oyster omelet, Taiwanese spring roll, pork with rice, and more! To order the NT$2,500 snack banquet, the night market association reminds visitors to make the reservation three days in advance.

To make reservations, please dial 0915-692480.

The main deity here is the Holy Mother, Mazu (lit.Maternal Ancestor). Each year, all year round, are sacrificial ceremonies, inspection processions, international exchanges, and charity relief for those needing protection, among other events. During the Mazu icon's processions believers wind through the main streets of Ximenting to Manka Boulevard. The goal is for Mazu to bring peace and security to her temple's domain. This practice is carried out by all Taiwan's hundreds of Mazu temples, a clear symbol of the Taiwan people's belief in Her benevolent protection.

Beyond the Mazu icon enshrined here, reverentially brought from China over 200 years back, another icon enshrined, the Master Hongfa (Kobo Daishi), is demonstration of the deep influence of Japanese Buddhism. Visits by Japanese worshippers are thus frequent.

Other resident gods are Zhusheng Niangniang (Goddess of Childbirth), Wenchang Dijun (God of Literature), who helps those taking tests, and myriad Buddhist icons, all thronged by fervent believers.

Information

How to Request Oracle Slips Requesting the Holy Mother to Identify a Spirit Writing (supplied by Taipei Tianhou Temple Mgt. Committee) Place incense sticks in censer—silent worship, and with sincere heart offer salutations. Cast divining blocks—throw first to ask if Mazu is willing to help; if yes, randomly choose bamboo slip with number attached from barrel. Cast again to ask if this is correct number. If yes, take spirit writing (goddess's advice) from drawer of same number; if no, repeat process. Taipei Tianhou Temple Tel: (02) 2331-0421 Address: 51 Chengdu Rd. Hours: 6:00am-10:00pm Taipei Jinde Temple Tel: (02) 2371-6144 Address: 9 Kangding Rd. Hours: 6:00am-10:00pm

The temple's management takes care to give back to local society much of what worshippers donate. Beyond social-charity work, financial support is given to impoverished students in high school and higher levels.

In addition, the second floor is now home to the Tianhou Temple Mazu Library, dedicated to preserving Taiwan's religious-culture assets, which has received high praise from Taipei City Govt.

Another spot, Taipei Jinde (Building Virtue) Temple, is an Historical Site of the Third Grade. Also called the General Temple , it stands at the bottomof Ximenting's “ M ovie Street”, Kangding Rd. Worshipped here is General Zhushun ( “Assist Tranquility” General), a Taoist deity. Staff point out that, if facing the icon, the carvings of the eaves on the right-side structure were done by master craftsmen from China, and those on the left by Taiwanese masters. Japan is another land of many temples, and the many Japanese who worship here thus take specialnotice of the superior architectural art on display.

General Zhushun was a Chinese patriot from the end of the Ming Dynasty. At the beginning of each year the temple holds a ceremony, also bringing in the glory of the supreme-deity Jade Emperor , where general tranquility and elimination of calamity is requested. In his mortal days the general was renowned for scholarly work and erudition; temple visitors can take away a free copy of his “Ode to Filial Piety” , still exalted today.Taiwan folk commonly offer much sacrificial fish and meat when worshiping, and burn much spirit money.

Many temples today encourage vegetarian offerings for everyday worship, abhorring unnecessary taking of life. In addition, to avoid pollution and wasting resources, only modest amounts of spirit-money burnings are called for, with the declaration it's the thought that counts, not the material outlay.