Shopping in Taiwan will be an adventure, there is so much to discover from the traditional markets to the fancy shopping malls! However as most clothes and shoe shops tend to stock only the smaller sizes western ladies can, sometimes, be disappointed.
Xinyi district is often considered the 'fancy' area with its modern shopping malls and department stores, the most prominent of which are Sogo and Mitsukoshi together with Taiwan's own Far Eastern Department Store. In the same area is Taipei 101, housing boutiques representing all the hottest brand names worldwide as well as a first-class supermarket offering a wide range of international foods. Next to Taipei 101 is New York New York shopping mall together with its neighbor Warner Village Cinema Centre both of which host well-known retailers in the less expensive range. A footpath connects the shopping malls to The World Trade Centre and Eslite Bookstore where not only books but gifts items may be purchased.
During weekends and holidays the local Jade and Flower markets are open (10 am - 5 pm) under the Jianguo Elevated Express way between Renai Rd and Jinan Rd. Various jade items, semi-precious stones and crystals are sold as well as other traditional Chinese items. When buying jade or precious stones at a street market it is important to be aware that quality may vary considerably. At the Flower market, as the name indicates, many different flowers and plants can be found along with tools for gardening. Here it is acceptable to bargain.
"Camera Street", Hankou Street, Sec 1, is home to the latest in high-tech camera equipment and the Guanghua Digital Plaza, Civic Blvd near Xinsheng Rd, (open daily 10am - 9pm) is the place to pick up computer hardware, computer parts, games and accessories. English is rarely spoken here and care must be taken as systems may not be compatible globally.
Dihua Street, northwest of Taipei Main Station is an excellent haven for those looking for authentic Chinese goods and its "Fabric Market" - heaven for all kinds of material and sewing accessories.