Where to buy stylish souvenirs in Taipei
Three shops for thoughtful Taiwan-themed gifts
Taipei has no shortage of souvenir shops, but many sell the same mass-produced magnets, keychains, and novelty gifts. Fortunately, there are a few stores that take a different approach and are working hard to promote the work of local creators.
Here are three places This Is Taipei recommends if you're looking for a small keepsake to remember Taiwan by, but want to avoid panic-buying pineapple cakes at the airport.
#1: Lai Hao
Elevated souvenir shopping with a Taiwanese twist
Located on Yongkang Street near Dongmen MRT Station, Lai Hao's flagship store is a well-known destination for Taiwanese souvenirs and offers a wide selection of locally designed products.
According to the company's website, the brand works with over 200 local businesses and designers, bringing food, tea, stationery, homeware, and lifestyle products under one roof. Visitors will find everything from oolong tea and pineapple cakes to postcards, ceramics, and Taiwan-themed mugs.
Many of the store's most popular items draw inspiration from everyday life in Taiwan. Highlights include Taiwan-themed beer glasses, tea towels featuring local landmarks, and colorful coin purses.
In addition to its Yongkang Street flagship, Lai Hao runs a branch in the Ximending area, as well as an online store.
It is open daily between 9:30 AM and 9:30 PM.
#2: Taiwan Bussan
Regional specialities from across Taiwan
Located on Dihua Street in Taipei's historic Dadaocheng neighborhood, Taiwan Bussan offers a wide selection of locally made gifts.
According to a profile published by the Dadaocheng International Arts Festival, the store's philosophy is "products are diplomacy," reflecting its focus on selling goods to showcase Taiwan.
Visitors will find a range of products, including jewelry, lanyards, clothes, local food items, posters, and stationery. It also sells fruit-flavored ice cream, which is a hit among customers who visit during the sweltering summer months.
Located in one of Taipei's oldest commercial districts, the shop makes an easy stop while exploring historic streets, traditional stores, and cafes.
It is open daily between 10 AM and 7 PM.
#3: Red House
Cute souvenirs in a historic landmark
Located in Taipei's Ximending area, the Red House is a historic building that also serves as a hub for Taiwan's creative industries.
While many visitors stop by for the architecture, the complex is also home to a collection of independent shops selling locally designed gifts, accessories, stationery, ceramics, clothing, and artwork.
The largest concentration of stores can be found in the Cross Building's 16 Studios, a spacious warehouse-like area behind the main octagonal building. According to the Red House, the space was created to support Taiwan's cultural and creative industries by providing a platform for independent designers and small brands.
The main Red House gift area offers a more curated selection of souvenirs, making it an easy place to pick up a more typical Taiwanese gift while exploring Ximending.
On weekends, the adjacent Red House Creative Market brings dozens of additional vendors to the plaza, adding even more opportunities to discover locally made products.
Red House is open daily between 9:30 AM and 5 PM, apart from Mondays, when it closes.
