Nestled along the vibrant waterfront of Hualien City, the Dongdamen Night Market stands as an undeniable culinary and cultural highlight of Taiwan’s east coast.
More than just a collection of food stalls, it’s a sprawling, meticulously organized gastronomic wonderland that combines four distinct thematic areas into one immense, lively destination.
Since its relocation and consolidation in 2015, Dongdamen has quickly become a must-visit for both locals and tourists, offering an incredible array of Taiwanese street food classics, unique indigenous delicacies, international flavors, and endless opportunities for entertainment.
It’s a place where the aromas of sizzling barbecues and sweet treats fill the air, and the energy is palpable, making for an unforgettable evening out.
Map and Location
Dongdamen Night Market is conveniently located on Zhongshan Road, near the coast in Hualien City.
Its strategic position allows for easy access and often includes a pleasant sea breeze.
The market is thoughtfully divided into four main zones, each with its own character:
Futing Night Market (福町夜市)
This section is the most traditional and recognizable, serving as the main entrance area.
It features a wide variety of classic Taiwanese street foods, games, and souvenir stalls.
You’ll find popular favorites like oyster omelets, crispy fried chicken, pepper buns, and various noodle dishes.
It’s often the busiest and most vibrant part, immediately immersing visitors in the quintessential night market experience.
Aboriginal Street (原住民一條街)
A unique highlight of Dongdamen, this street celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Taiwan’s indigenous tribes, particularly the Amis, Truku, and Bunun people who call Hualien home.
Here, you can sample authentic aboriginal BBQ (often featuring wild boar and unique mountain ingredients), grilled fish wrapped in pandan leaves, bamboo rice, and various traditional snacks and drinks, offering a distinctive taste not easily found elsewhere.
Provinces Street (各省一條街)
This section offers a taste of diverse regional Chinese cuisines, reflecting the various provinces from which early immigrants came to Taiwan.
You might find dishes from different parts of mainland China, often with a Taiwanese twist, such as dumplings, various types of pancakes, and stir-fried specialties.
It provides a broader culinary palette beyond typical Taiwanese fare.
Ziqiang Night Market (自強夜市)
Prior to the consolidation, Ziqiang Night Market was a famous standalone night market.
Now integrated into Dongdamen, it brings its reputation for popular, established stalls that have garnered a loyal following over the years.
You’ll often find longer lines here for its well-known vendors, specializing in items like fruit juice stands, grilled corn, and specific fried chicken or seafood stalls.
Top 10 – A Subjective List of Must-Trys
While “top 10” can vary by personal taste, these are highly recommended for first-time visitors:
- Hualien-style Wonton (扁食) – Recommended: Delicate wrappers with flavorful pork filling in a clear, comforting soup. Look for stalls with long lines or famous names.
- Aboriginal BBQ (原住民烤肉): Especially wild boar (山豬肉). Skewers grilled over charcoal with unique indigenous spices.
- Grilled Corn (烤玉米) – Recomended: Often painted with a savory sauce and grilled to perfection. You might pick your own corn and wait for it to be cooked.
- Oyster Omelet (蚵仔煎): A classic Taiwanese night market dish – a savory omelet with fresh oysters, vegetables, and a starchy sauce.
- Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐): Don’t let the name deter you! Crispy fried cubes served with pickled cabbage and chili sauce. A true Taiwanese experience.
- Fresh Fruit Juice (新鮮果汁) – Recommended: Numerous stalls offer a dizzying array of freshly squeezed juices, often incorporating local Hualien fruits.
- Sweet Potato Balls (地瓜球): Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, these deep-fried sweet potato spheres are a delightful snack.
- Mochi (麻糬): While often bought as a souvenir, you can find fresh, handmade mochi at the market with various fillings.
- Deep-fried King Oyster Mushrooms (炸杏鮑菇): A popular vegetarian-friendly option, these mushrooms are seasoned and deep-fried, often tasting surprisingly like fried chicken.
- Pepper Buns (胡椒餅): Savory pork or beef filling baked inside a crispy, flaky dough, often cooked in a traditional cylindrical oven.
Getting Here & Transportation
Dongdamen Night Market’s central location in Hualien City makes it very accessible:
- From Hualien Railway Station:
- Taxi (Recommended): The quickest and most convenient option, usually a 10-15 minute ride.
- Bus: Several local bus routes (e.g., #301) connect the train station to the night market area. Check bus schedules and routes at the station.
- Walking: It’s a pleasant 20-30 minute walk from the train station, especially if you enjoy exploring the city streets.
- From Downtown Hualien (e.g., Zhongshan Rd):
- Walking: Very easily walkable from most central hotels and guesthouses.
- Scooter/Bicycle: Renting a scooter or bicycle is a popular way to get around Hualien. There’s ample parking around the market.
- Parking: Extensive paid parking lots are available around the night market area for those driving cars or scooters.
Hualien’s vibrant feast for the senses and an unforgettable culinary adventure
Dongdamen Night Market is more than just a place to eat; it’s a vibrant spectacle that captures the essence of Hualien’s lively culture and diverse culinary landscape.
From the familiar comforts of classic Taiwanese street food to the adventurous flavors of aboriginal cuisine and regional Chinese dishes, there’s an endless array of delights to explore.
Whether you’re seeking a delicious dinner, unique souvenirs, or simply a lively atmosphere to soak in, Dongdamen offers an unforgettable evening.
It’s a true feast for the senses and an essential experience for anyone visiting Hualien City, embodying the spirit of communal enjoyment and culinary adventure that defines Taiwan’s night markets.