Last Updated on August 8, 2025 by [email protected]
One of the best parts of traveling to Taiwan? Souvenir hunting.
Sure, you’ve probably tried pineapple cakes and oolong tea—but if you’re looking for something more unique to bring home, you’re in the right place.
We asked Taiwanese locals what souvenirs they’d recommend to visitors from Japan, and the results were full of surprises—delicious snacks, creative essentials, and charming finds you won’t easily come across anywhere else.
From crunchy street snacks to beautifully designed kitchenware, this guide breaks down Taiwan’s best souvenirs into four categories:
Snacks & Sweets, Sauces & Pantry Goods, Lifestyle Items, and Brand-Only Picks.
By the time you reach the end, you’ll likely have a few top picks of your own—and maybe even a full suitcase.
Oh, and don’t miss the bonus section: we’re also sharing three go-to local spots where you’re guaranteed to find souvenirs with taste, heart, and a touch of discovery.
Taiwanese-Recommended Souvenirs: Snacks & Sweets You Can Only Find in Taiwan
Koloko: Taiwan’s All-Time Favorite Corn Twist Snack
If there’s one snack that every Taiwanese grew up eating, it’s Koloko. First released in 1978 by Lian Hwa Foods, this nostalgic spiral-shaped corn snack is a mainstay in every convenience store and supermarket.
Its twisted shape and crispy texture make it seriously addictive—just one bite, and you’ll find it hard to stop. The original onion flavor is a classic, but it also comes in seaweed salt, barbecue, and spicy versions, catering to all ages.
Fun fact: the name “Koloko” is a blend of “corn” and the Mandarin word for “happiness”. Inspired by Japan’s “Kāru” snack, Koloko has evolved into a symbol of Taiwanese childhood memories and local flavor.
Lightweight, mess-free, and easy to share, Koloko is a brilliant souvenir—especially for anyone curious about everyday snacks loved by locals.
Bobo Chips: Taiwan’s Night Market Flavor in a Bag
Looking to bring home the taste of Taiwan’s famous night markets? Try the oyster omelette–flavored Bobo Chips by Lian Hwa Foods. Inspired by the beloved street food “蚵仔煎,” these thick-cut, wavy potato chips pack a sweet and savory punch with a hint of briny oyster flavor.
The texture? Ultra-crunchy. The taste? Like a night out at Shilin or Raohe Market.
Conveniently sold in supermarkets and convenience stores, Bobo Chips are lightweight, easy to carry, and perfect for reliving your Taiwan trip at home. They also make a fun gift for adventurous snack lovers or anyone craving a nostalgic taste of the island’s food scene.
Since this flavor is nearly impossible to find outside Taiwan, it’s a great pick to enjoy yourself—or share a piece of Taiwan with your friends.
Almond Crunch Meets Bitter Cocoa: Taiwan’s Beloved Classic from I-Mei
While I-Mei is known for its famous cream puffs, one of their lesser-known—but equally delicious—gems is the Almond Chocolate Cookie, loved across generations in Taiwan for over 40 years.
These crunchy round bites are coated in rich dark chocolate and packed with roasted almond pieces. Every bite offers a satisfying snap, followed by the warm nuttiness of almonds wrapped in just the right amount of bitterness from the chocolate.
Enjoy them straight from the bag, crumble them over yogurt or ice cream, or dip them in milk like a cereal-style treat. For a more grown-up pairing, they’re absolutely perfect with a cup of black coffee.
They’re lightweight, travel well, and stay fresh for weeks—making them a smart pick for souvenirs or for reliving your Taiwan trip at home with a sweet snack.
Taiwan’s Bamboo-Shaped Winter Cookies：A Crispy Bite of Nostalgia
Named after their resemblance to winter bamboo shoots, these delicate cookies are a throwback to Taiwan’s traditional snack culture. Don’t let the simple look fool you—they’re full of charm.
The exterior is light and flaky, breaking apart with a satisfying crumble as soon as you bite in. The flavor is mildly sweet and toasty, making it a perfect companion to a cup of hot tea.
You’ll often spot these retro-style treats in dry goods shops, especially in Taipei’s Dihua Street market area. They come from various brands, each with its own take on thickness, sweetness, and crunchiness—so it’s fun to try different versions and find your favorite.
If you’re looking for an old-school snack that truly captures the soul of Taiwan, this is it.
Salted Egg Yolk Pastry: Where savory meets sweet—the essence of bold Taiwanese flavor.
Don’t be fooled by its plain appearance—this pastry packs a punch. Salted duck egg yolk is kneaded right into the dough, creating a crispy yet rich bite that’s deeply umami with just a hint of sweetness.
Each mouthful starts with a satisfying crunch, followed by that unmistakable eggy depth. The sweet-salty balance is so on point, you’ll find your hand reaching for another before you know it.
Pair it with Taiwanese tea or a cup of black coffee for the full experience. Most come individually wrapped, making them ideal for gifting—or keeping in your bag as a handy snack.
Peanut Brittle：Straight from the islands—crunchy, toasty, and deeply nostalgic.
Made famous in the outlying islands of Penghu, this traditional snack combines roasted peanuts with sugar and malt syrup, pressed into crunchy, golden bites.
With a texture similar to Okinawa’s “chinsuko” but with that unmistakable peanut aroma, it offers a pure, unpretentious sweetness that feels like something grandma made.
Find them easily in supermarkets and old-school dry goods stores—especially around Dihua Street. Lightweight and often individually wrapped, they’re ideal for sharing (or for secretly snacking on during your flight home).
Just a heads up: they’re dangerously easy to overeat. Consider yourself warned.
Egg Roll：A crisp swirl of tradition, lightly sweet and endlessly snackable
Egg rolls in Mandarin, are a classic Taiwanese treat made from eggs, sugar, and flour—rolled thin and baked to golden crispiness. Though originally inspired by Spain’s “barquillos” and later popularized via Hong Kong, Taiwan has put its own spin on the flavor: subtly sweet, nutty, and beautifully light.
Today, you’ll find a variety of flavors like sesame, matcha, or coffee, and even cream-filled versions. What makes them so addictive is their delicate texture—crisp at first bite, then melt-in-your-mouth soft.
They pair perfectly with coffee or tea, and if you crumble one over ice cream? Heaven.
Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic snack or an elegant souvenir that travels well, egg rolls are a dependable go-to.
Mooncake with Salted Egg Yolk：Flaky, rich, and a little salty—Taiwan’s iconic pastry with a twist
A must-have for the Mid-Autumn Festival, “Mooncake with Salted Egg Yolk” is a flaky pastry filled with sweet red bean or mung bean paste—and a whole salted duck egg yolk right in the center.
Crispy on the outside, rich and slightly salty inside, it’s a delicate balance of texture and taste. The boldness of the egg yolk is softened by the mellow sweetness of the filling, making it a standout among Asian pastries.
Though it’s most popular in fall, you can find it year-round at bakeries, supermarkets, and airport shops. Many Japanese visitors find it surprisingly familiar yet entirely new—like discovering a cousin of wagashi, with an edge.
If you love baked goods with character, this one’s worth a try.
Sun Cake：Soft, flaky, and sweet like sunshine—Taichung’s most famous bite
Hailing from Taichung, the sun cake is named for its round, sun-like appearance. It features thin, flaky pastry filled with a gooey maltose center that gently melts in your mouth.
Despite the name, it’s not made with rice or mochi—this “cake” is all about that pastry crunch and mellow sweetness. It’s a gentle, light snack that appeals to those who prefer subtle flavors.
Commonly found in airport shops, supermarkets, and traditional bakeries, it’s one of the most recognizable souvenirs from central Taiwan.
Best enjoyed with a cup of tea and a relaxed afternoon mood.
Mung Bean Cake：Delicate, crumbly, and cooling—Taiwan’s classic summer treat
Originally from China but lovingly adapted in Taiwan, mung bean cake is made from green bean powder, sugar, and vegetable oil. The result? A soft, crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a subtle sweetness that feels just right in hot weather.
It’s commonly enjoyed in summer thanks to the mung bean’s natural “cooling” properties in traditional beliefs. Many locals pair it with iced tea or enjoy it as a light afternoon snack.
You can find it in supermarkets and traditional pastry shops. Handmade versions usually last a week, while packaged varieties can be stored for 1–3 months—perfect for bringing home as a gentle, elegant souvenir from Taiwan.
Dried Fruit：Tropical sunshine in snack form—sweet, chewy, and travel-friendly
Taiwan is a fruit lover’s paradise, and its dried fruits are a delicious way to bring home a taste of the island. Mangoes, pineapples, and guavas are slowly dried to concentrate their flavor and sweetness without losing their natural aroma.
The texture is soft and chewy, perfect for snacking, mixing into yogurt, or adding to cereal. These treats are widely available in supermarkets, night markets, and even airport souvenir shops.
Lightweight and shelf-stable, dried fruit makes for excellent shareable gifts or a fruity pick-me-up on the go.
Looking for a souvenir that’s both flavorful and functional? This is it.
Taiwanese-Recommended Souvenirs: Ingredients & Condiments You Can Only Find in Taiwan
Satay Sauce：Savory, spicy, and seriously addictive—Taiwan’s favorite all-purpose condiment
Satay sauce in Taiwan isn’t just a BBQ side—it’s a flavor bomb in a jar. Infused with garlic, seafood essence, peanuts, and chili, this thick, savory paste can be used in hot pots, stir-fries, noodle sauces, or as a marinade.
It’s so essential that most Taiwanese households keep at least one jar in the pantry.
Available in every supermarket, satay sauce is an easy way to bring the taste of Taiwan home. Just be sure to check for allergens (like shrimp or peanuts), confirm your country’s customs rules on bringing food back, and pack it in your checked luggage for safe travel.
A true kitchen MVP for anyone who wants to cook like a local.
Pickled Chili Pepper: Bold, savory, and sneakily addictive
This Taiwanese pantry staple is made from peeled green chilies soaked in a marinade of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and ginger. The result? A punchy, sweet-and-salty pickle that adds a spicy kick to any dish.
Locals enjoy it over rice, chopped into stir-fries, added to soup, or even as a drinking snack.
You’ll find it easily in any supermarket’s sauce aisle, and since it’s shelf-stable when sealed, it’s a handy souvenir for spice lovers. Want to cook like a local? Just Google “剝皮辣椒 recipe” and let the flavor journey begin.
Dried Noodles: Taiwan’s supermarket treasure—light to pack, rich in variety
Taiwanese supermarkets are a dried noodle wonderland. Perfect for travelers, they’re lightweight, don’t require refrigeration, and come in endless varieties:
- Yi Mien: flat, lightly fried noodles for soup or dry sauce
- Knife-cut noodles: thick, chewy ribbons, perfect for stir-frying
- Oil noodles: yellow noodles dried from fresh ones—used in soups or stir-fries
- Rice noodles (Mi Tai Mu): short, fat rice-based noodles, great in savory or sweet dishes
- Chicken thread noodles: thin and crispy, just add hot water for a midnight snack
Boil them at home and pair with sauces like satay—your taste buds will be right back in Taiwan.
Peanut Gluten: A savory-sweet canned mystery that’s worth the bite
“Peanut gluten” might sound unusual, but it’s a Taiwanese comfort food through and through. Made from wheat gluten and roasted peanuts, this dish is stewed in soy sauce until deeply flavorful.
Usually sold in cans or jars, it’s a favorite over congee or plain rice, but locals also toss it into stir-fries or braised dishes.
If you’re adventurous, try cracking one open during your hotel stay—it’s one of the easiest ways to eat like a local. Just pair it with beer and you’ve got yourself a mini night market experience.
Iron Eggs: Taiwan’s chewy, jet-black snack with a cult following
Born in Tamsui, iron eggs are small chicken or quail eggs repeatedly braised in soy sauce and spices, then air-dried until dark, dense, and full of umami.
They’re chewy, flavorful, and addictive—kind of like soy-marinated jerky, but in egg form. Eat them straight from the pack, or chop them into fried rice or congee.
Their vacuum-sealed packaging and long shelf life make them a great souvenir to toss in your suitcase. For anyone curious about local snacks with attitude, iron eggs are a bold and delicious choice.
Taiwanese-Recommended Souvenirs: Miscellaneous Goods & Daily Essentials You Can Only Find in Taiwan
Mini Beer Glass: A tiny cup with big cultural meaning
Taiwan’s famously small beer glasses aren’t just cute—they’re cultural. They reflect the local tradition of saying “Ganbei!” and drinking in one go. A smaller pour means it’s always cold, always fresh, and always ready for the next toast.
Historically, these glasses also emerged post-WWII during material shortages, when making beer stretch further meant smaller servings for everyone.
Today, you can find them printed with adorable city designs or night market motifs—making them both a fun souvenir and a conversation starter back home.
Tatung Rice Cooker: Taiwan’s kitchen hero that does it all
Made since 1960 by the iconic brand Tatung, this multi-functional rice cooker is a staple in nearly every Taiwanese household. It steams, boils, warms, and cooks with just one switch and a splash of water—simplicity and durability at its best.
Loved for its long-lasting quality (some families pass them down through generations!), it now comes in trendy colors and sizes that have even caught attention in Japan as “retro-cool Taiwanese appliances.”
A bit bulky for a suitcase? Maybe. Worth it for die-hard fans of Taiwanese culture and home cooking? Absolutely.
Electric Mosquito Swatter: The must-have gadget for surviving summer in Taiwan
If you’ve ever been ambushed by mosquitoes after a night market stroll, this gadget is your new best friend.
It looks like a tennis racket, but press the button and swing—and zap! No spray, no coils, no smell.
This quirky and super practical tool is sold everywhere in Taiwan, from convenience stores to supermarkets. Lightweight and affordable, it’s a hit with tourists who want a fun, usable souvenir they’ll keep using long after the trip.
Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it.
Blue-and-White Slippers: Taiwan’s no-frills footwear icon
These humble plastic sandals are instantly recognizable across Taiwan. Known as blue-white slippers, they’re affordable, durable, and universally worn—from shopkeepers to students, from grandma’s house to corner stores.
Simple? Yes. Stylish? Surprisingly so.
Even Japanese singer Fujii Kaze wore them on stage during a concert in Taipei, turning this utilitarian icon into a pop culture moment.
Whether you wear them at home or just want something unmistakably Taiwanese in your suitcase, these slippers are a low-cost souvenir with major cultural soul.
Bobo Pigeon Goods: Taiwan’s postal mascot turned collectible cutie
Looking for a quirky souvenir that screams “Taiwan”? Meet Bobo Pigeon—the adorable, chubby mascot of Chunghwa Post, Taiwan’s national postal service. With its round belly and signature green hat, Bobo has quietly earned a loyal following.
You’ll find plushies, keychains, tote bags, and even washi tape featuring this mellow bird, usually at major post offices or airport branches.
Sometimes there are pop-up stores or limited-edition collabs—so spotting Bobo merch can feel like finding a hidden gem. Grab one before it flies away, and take a little piece of Taiwan’s charm home with you.
Taiwanese Soup Spoon: A humble, magical tool for everyday meals
At first glance, it looks like any other spoon. But once you try it, you’ll understand why Taiwanese soup spoons are a cult favorite.
Its short handle and wide, flat bowl make it ideal not just for soups, but also for scooping up fried rice or silken tofu desserts. It’s cute, functional, and oddly satisfying to use—so much so that many travelers say food just tastes better with it.
Find them in supermarkets like Carrefour or RT-Mart for a few bucks. Whether for daily use or as a nostalgic gift, this spoon packs charm with every scoop.
Plastic Woven Basket: Colorful, practical, and undeniably Taiwanese
Think of it as the love child of a beach tote and a local market bag. These plastic woven baskets come in vibrant colors and patterns, crafted from durable materials that hold their shape no matter how much you stuff in.
You’ll find the best selection in Dihua Street shops, where rows of baskets in all shapes and sizes line the storefronts. Lightweight and affordable, they’re perfect for storing groceries, picnic gear, or even as a souvenir carrier on your way home.
With their retro charm and tropical vibes, these baskets are fashionably functional—and uniquely Taiwanese.
Taiwanese-Approved Souvenirs: Brand Names & Limited Editions You Can Only Find in Taiwan
Taiwanese-Approved Souvenirs: Brand Names & Limited Editions You Can Only Find in Taiwan
MUJI: Taiwan-Exclusive Products You Can’t Get in Japan
Loved in both Japan and Taiwan, MUJI actually offers a treasure trove of exclusive products only available in Taiwan.
If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing souvenir, try the bubble milk tea–flavored chocolate gummies. With just the right sweetness and a chewy “boba” texture, they’ve become a must-buy for tourists—including myself! They’re also compact enough to slip into your suitcase effortlessly.
Taiwan MUJI also has a surprising skincare selection. Unlike in Japan, you’ll find three types of sheet masks tailored for dry skin, oily skin, and anti-aging care. Great as thoughtful gifts or for pampering yourself.
Larger MUJI stores clearly label which items are “Taiwan Exclusive,” so it’s easy to spot the limited editions. On your next Taiwan trip, take a stroll through a local MUJI and see what rare gems you can find!
Starbucks: Taiwan-Inspired Local Exclusives
Starbucks Taiwan is a goldmine for collectors and souvenir hunters, offering exclusive products that blend local culture with global branding.
One fan favorite? The Chaji Bag—based on traditional nylon Taiwanese shopping totes, perfect for laundry, groceries, or organizing travel items. Starbucks releases limited-edition versions in various colors and sizes, sometimes with seasonal drops.
Curious about Taiwanese folk religion? Check out the “Blessing Mugs,” featuring nine gods like Mazu and the Matchmaker deity. Each design symbolizes luck, wisdom, peace, or love—making them meaningful gifts with cultural charm.
With Starbucks locations all over Taiwan, it’s easy to stop in, grab a drink, and browse these unique, local-themed items before heading home.
KAVALAN: Taiwan’s Award-Winning Whisky Brand
Taiwan might not be world-renowned for its drinking culture, but KAVALAN whisky puts it on the global spirits map.
Crafted in Yilan since 2008, KAVALAN quickly rose to fame after winning top honors at a whisky competition in Scotland in 2010. It has continued to earn international awards ever since, gaining respect among connoisseurs worldwide.
While available in major supermarkets and department stores, Taipei also has KAVALAN flagship shops, where you can sample different blends and pick up travel-friendly mini bottles and exclusives.
Whether for yourself or as a classy gift for a whisky lover, KAVALAN is a premium souvenir worth raising a glass to.
Bonus: Best Spots to Hunt for Souvenirs in Taiwan
“Want to bring back some souvenirs, but don’t know where to start?”
“Airport gift shops feel a bit bland and overpriced—how about something more meaningful?”
No worries! Here are three go-to places locals love, and they’re perfect for picking up thoughtful souvenirs:
Dihua Street
A nostalgic-meets-trendy area in Taipei, Dihua Street is where Taiwan’s past and present coexist. Originally a hub for herbs, teas, and dry goods during Japanese rule, today it blends old-school grocery shops with chic boutiques and snack vendors.
You’ll find everything from traditional sweets to herbal teas, making it a fantastic spot for souvenir hunting while soaking in the old-town charm.
- Address: No. 146, Section 1, Dihua Street, Datong District, Taipei City
- Source: Taiwan Tourism Bureau Official Site
Lai Hao
Lai Hao is a stylish select shop dedicated to Taiwan-made goods. From stationery and bags to daily essentials, everything is designed and produced locally. Each item strikes a balance between uniquely Taiwanese and practical.
With branches near Dongmen, Ximen, and Taipei Main Station, it’s easy to pop in during your city strolls.
- Yongkang Main Store: No. 11, Lane 6, Yongkang Street, Da’an Dist., Taipei (2-min walk from MRT Dongmen Exit 5)
Open: 9:30–21:30 - Ximen Store: No. 169, Xining South Rd., Wanhua Dist., Taipei (5-min walk from MRT Ximen Exit 6)
Open: 11:00–22:00 - Caesar Store: 1F, No. 38, Sec. 1, Zhongxiao W. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei (2-min walk from Taipei Main Station Exit M6)
Open: 10:00–22:00
PX Mart & Carrefour
These supermarkets are hidden gems for affordable and authentic Taiwanese goodies. PX Mart is local and low-key, while Carrefour is bigger and great for one-stop shopping.
You’ll find Taiwan-exclusive snacks, instant noodles, sauces, teas, and colorful packaging that screams “Made in Taiwan.” Great for gifting—or just stocking up for yourself.
Travel Like a Local: Stay at Home Sweet Home Share House
As you stroll through Taiwan’s charming streets in search of souvenirs, you might find yourself thinking,
“I wish I could stay here a bit longer.”
I’ve felt that way myself—especially when browsing cute trinkets and locally made teas, imagining what it would be like to live in this vibrant city.
If you’re considering a short to mid-term stay in Taipei, Home Sweet Home Share House is definitely worth checking out.
Why Choose Home Sweet Home?
✔ Flexible Stay Options
Most rentals require a year-long commitment, but Home Sweet Home offers flexible contracts starting from just one month—perfect for working holidays, language programs, internships, or cultural exploration. Longer stays are welcome too.
✔ All-Inclusive Pricing
Rent covers all essentials—utilities (water, electricity, gas), Wi-Fi, A/C, furniture, TV, hot water, and even basic daily necessities like shampoo, toilet paper, and kitchen towels. Just bring your suitcase and move in stress-free.
✔ International Co-living Experience
Want to connect with others? Choose a shared room and experience life with roommates from around the world. Prefer privacy? Go for a solo studio—it’s your call.
Turn Your Travel Memories Into a Daily Life
That pineapple cake, the oolong tea, the little trinkets—they become more than souvenirs when you live here. They become your new daily joy.
If you’re curious about trying out the “live like a local” lifestyle in Taipei, check out our guide here:
👉The Complete Guide to Living in Taipei, Taiwan (2025): Everything You Need to Know
🔗 Ready to learn more or apply now?
