Taiwan is home to around 300 night markets, each offering unique experiences. In Kaohsiung, a southern Taiwanese city, visitors can explore three night markets: Liuhe, Ruifeng, and Jin Zuan.
The photo captures crowds strolling through Liuhe Night Market on a December weekend.
Stretching 400 meters, Liuhe Night Market focuses on food, from main dishes to snacks. Its location near the Formosa Boulevard Station allows visitors to arrive by train, with many taking the opportunity to admire the station's artistic dome.
Tourists often visit Liuhe to savor local delicacies such as beef noodles, fried chicken, grilled skewers, and bubble tea. Most dishes are reasonably priced, starting at around 80 TWD (US$2.40), and a full meal costs about 300 TWD (US$9.20).
One popular treat found in all Taiwanese night markets is candied fruit skewers. Made with fruits like apples, cherry tomatoes, grapes, and strawberries coated in hardened sugar syrup, these snacks cost about 50 TWD ($1.50) per skewer.
While most food stalls line both sides of the street, offering take-away options, some vendors set up dining tables in the middle for visitors to enjoy their meals on-site.
Le Anh Minh, a Taiwan tour guide, explained that night markets are popular among the younger generation. Many locals prefer gathering at night markets after work or even use them as casual date spots, especially since cooking at home is less appealing to some.
Unlike Liuhe, Ruifeng Night Market is larger and frequented by locals. It operates daily except on Mondays and Wednesdays and boasts over 1,000 stalls selling food, clothing, souvenirs, and offering carnival-style games.
According to Business Next, a Taiwanese lifestyle publication, the game stalls reflect local entertainment culture. While the prizes are small, they attract people of all ages. Young visitors enjoy these activities as a way to relieve stress from work or school.
Stuffed animals are a popular item at Ruifeng Night Market; however, the quality of these products is not remarkable.
Mahjong game stalls are a highlight at Ruifeng Night Market. Unlike professional matches, these stalls do not require high stakes, focusing instead on entertainment and friendly competition.
Mahjong is deeply rooted in local culture, serving as a way to relax and connect with family and friends. Outside the night market, it's common to see elderly residents playing mahjong on the streets.
Ruifeng Night Market offers a wider culinary experience than Liuhe. Visitors can enjoy dishes ranging from Japanese, Thai, Korean, and Chinese cuisine to Taiwanese specialties. The photo shows a stall serving grilled beef with black pepper or chili sauce, depending on preference. Most food items here range from 100 TWD ($3).
