Your trip in Taiwan has come to an end, and you have one last day to buy a little something for your friends and family back home. But there is a problem: there are way too many things to choose from!
So we decided to make it easier for you. Here are a few must-buy souvenirs that you would only find in Taiwan and nowhere else in the world.
- Pineapple cake
First on the list is pineapple cake, no surprise there; it is the most famous and popular snack that tourists buy when they visit Taiwan. Its sweet pineapple filling is appealing to most, but they also come in other flavors like mango and blueberry.
Best brands: SunnyHills, Shun Chen Bakery, Chia Te Bakery
2. Fine tea leaves
Tea has always been Taiwan’s main agricultural product, and of the many tea varieties Taiwanese Oolong is one of the best in the world, and Ali Mountain tea is a must-try as well especially for tea lovers. You can even buy some of those cute fish-shaped tea bags (the brand is called Charm Villa)! When you make the tea, it’s as if a goldfish is swimming in your cup. It will be a huge hit!
Best varieties of tea to buy: Teiguanyin, Alishan Hight Mountain, Dongfang Meiren
3. Kavalan whiskey
Bring a bottle of Kavalan whiskey for your coming-home party! Known for its tropical-fruit style (with hints of grape, green apple and sweet pineapple), it has been named the 2015 world’s best single malt, and was even featured in Time Magazine.
4. Oilpaper umbrellas
Why not buy something a little bit more special? For Taiwan’s 4.2 million ethnic Hakka people, the brightly colored umbrella symbolizes good fortune and prosperity. Originally used for protection from rain and sun, and in wedding ceremonies as a rite of passage, they are now mainly bought as decorations.
Best places to buy: Huaxi Street night market, Meinong Prosperity Paper Umbrella Store