1. What are some popular shopping destinations in Yilan County?
Some popular shopping destinations in Yilan County are Luodong Night Market, Dongmen Tourist Night Market, and Yilan Dongmen Traditional Market.
2. Can you recommend any traditional markets in Yilan County?
Yes, I can recommend the Dongmen Night Market and Luodong Night Market as two popular traditional markets in Yilan County.
3. How is the shopping experience at Luodong Night Market compared to other night markets in Taiwan?
The shopping experience at Luodong Night Market is unique and offers a diverse range of products that sets it apart from other night markets in Taiwan.
4. Are there any famous local products or souvenirs that can be purchased in Yilan County?
Yes, there are several famous local products and souvenirs that can be purchased in Yilan County. Some popular ones include Luodong’s traditional mochi, Jiaosi’s mineral water, Dongshan’s rice noodles, and Su’ao’s dried shrimp. Other unique gifts and handicrafts that are specific to the area include Yilan embroidered fabric items, woodcarvings from Guishan Island, and Sicheng aroma sachets made with locally grown herbs. Many of these products can be found at local markets or specialty shops throughout the county.
5. Is it possible to bargain for prices at the markets in Yilan County?
Yes, it is possible to bargain for prices at the markets in Yilan County. Bargaining is a common practice in markets throughout Taiwan, including those in Yilan County. However, the success of bargaining may vary and it is important to be respectful and polite while negotiating prices with vendors.
6. Which area of Yilan County is best for shopping?
The Dongmen Night Market in Yilan City is known for its wide variety of shopping options, making it the best area for shopping in Yilan County.
7. Are there any specific souvenirs or items that people often buy when visiting Yilan County?
Yes, there are several popular souvenirs and items that people often purchase when visiting Yilan County. This includes local agricultural products such as tea, fruit, and honey, as well as handcrafted items like traditional pottery, wood carvings, and cloth goods. The county is also known for its delicious snacks and traditional treats like mochi and black sesame cakes, which make for great gifts to take home. Other popular souvenirs include postcards featuring iconic landmarks or landscapes of Yilan County.
8. Do the markets in Yilan County have a variety of local produce and fresh seafood?
Yes, the markets in Yilan County offer a diverse selection of local produce and fresh seafood.
9. Are there any notable specialty stores or boutiques in Yilan County?
Yes, there are several notable specialty stores and boutiques in Yilan County. Some popular options include the Wu Wei Tang Handmade Gallery, which showcases unique handcrafted items made by local artists, and the Yilan Red Bean Pastry Shop, known for its delicious traditional pastries made with local ingredients. Other noteworthy boutiques include Hugang pastry shop, which specializes in pineapple cakes, and Gwai Tao Ticks handmade boutique for handmade clothes and accessories.
10. How do prices at the markets in Yilan County compare to those in Taipei?
The prices at the markets in Yilan County may be generally lower compared to those in Taipei.
11. Is it easy to find transportation to and from the markets in Yilan County?
It may depend on your specific location and the availability of public transportation options. However, there are usually buses or taxis that can take you to most markets in Yilan County. You may also be able to arrange for private transportation with a local tour guide or rental car service. Overall, finding transportation to and from the markets should not be too difficult.
12. Can you find both traditional and modern items at the markets in Yilan County?
Yes, you can find both traditional and modern items at the markets in Yilan County.
13. Are there any malls or department stores worth visiting for shopping in Yilan County?
Yes, there are several malls and department stores in Yilan County that are worth visiting for shopping. Popular options include Luna Plaza, FE21′ Shopping Town, and Taipei 101 Mall. These locations offer a variety of shops and brands to choose from, as well as restaurants and entertainment options. Other local markets and night markets also offer unique shopping experiences in Yilan County.
14. What are the busiest days and times to visit the markets in Yilan County?
The busiest days and times to visit the markets in Yilan County may vary depending on the specific market. It is recommended to research and inquire about popular markets in the area and their operating schedules. Additionally, weekends tend to be busier than weekdays in most places.
15. Can you provide some recommended street food vendors at Luodong Night Market?
Yes, I can provide some recommended street food vendors at Luodong Night Market. Some popular options include the grilled squid and pork skewers from “Yilan Salt-Baked Meat” stall, the oyster and seafood pancakes from “Ah-Juan Shen’s Oyster Omelet”, and the crispy fried chicken cutlet from “Lai Feng Ge Fried Chicken”. Other must-try dishes include the stinky tofu from “Master Wu Stinky Tofu”, the beef noodles from “Feng Jia Beef Noodles”, and the pineapple cake from “Mei Xin Bakery”.
16.Is there a flea market scene in Yilan County? If so, where can we find them?
Yes, there is a flea market scene in Yilan County. The main flea market in Yilan is located at Luodong Cultural Night Market, which opens every night from 6 p.m. to midnight. Other smaller flea markets can also be found throughout Yilan, such as at Dongmen Art Market and Nanfangao Harbor Fisherman’s Wharf on weekends.
17.What types of handicrafts or handmade products can be found at the markets in Yilan county?
Some of the handicrafts or handmade products that can be found at the markets in Yilan county include traditional pottery, weaving and embroidery, calligraphy and painting, paper lanterns, woodcarvings, soap and beauty products, hand-woven baskets, and local food products such as honey and tea.
18.How does the price of goods sold at small/local shops compare to larger commercial chains?
The price of goods sold at small/local shops can vary greatly compared to those sold at larger commercial chains. In some cases, the prices may be lower due to a smaller markup or competitive pricing by the business owner. However, in other cases, the prices may be higher due to limited resources and higher operating costs for small/local shops. Ultimately, it depends on the specific products and businesses involved.
19.Are there any unique or specialty food products that can only be found in Yilan county’s markets?
Yes, there are several unique and specialty food products that can only be found in Yilan county’s markets. Some examples include:
1. Yilan Green Onion Pancake – made with a special type of local green onion and topped with sesame seeds.
2. Giacai (Jiuchai) dumplings- filled with chives grown in the mountains of Yilan.
3. Sticky rice cake (Mochi)- often filled with red bean paste and decorated with local symbols or designs.
4. Chia Te Bakery Pineapple Cakes – a popular souvenir snack made with fresh pineapple from Yilan.
5. Ginger flavored fried chicken – a popular street food found in Luodong night market.
6. Chaozhou-style meatballs – beef or pork meatballs mixed with water chestnut and bamboo shoots, then deep-fried to create a crispy outer layer.
7. Small Steamed Bun (Xiao Long Bao) – a smaller version of the famous Taiwanese soup dumpling made by using fresh water from flowing rivers in Yilan County.
Overall, these unique and specialty food products highlight the local ingredients and traditional cooking methods of Yilan County, making them must-try items for tourists visiting the area’s markets.
20.Is it necessary to bring cash or do most vendors accept credit cards at the markets?
It depends on the vendors and the specific market. Some may only accept cash, while others may accept both cash and credit cards. It is recommended to have some cash on hand just in case.