Taipei 101 to Shilin Night Market Complete Transportation Guide 2025
Traveling from Taipei's iconic skyline district to Taiwan's most famous night market creates the perfect evening transition from modern urban sophistication to authentic cultural immersion. The journey from Taipei 101 and the surrounding Xinyi District to Shilin Night Market takes approximately 20-25 minutes via Taipei's efficient MRT system, connecting two of the city's most essential experiences in a single memorable evening.
Quick Route Overview 20-25 Minutes Total
Route: Taipei 101/World Trade Center → Taipei Main Station → Jiantan Station
MRT Lines: Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) direct service
Total Stations: 9 stops from Taipei 101/World Trade Center to Jiantan
Journey Time: 17-20 minutes on train + 5 minutes walking
Cost: NT$25 (US$0.80) with EasyCard
Frequency: Trains every 2-4 minutes during peak hours
Step-by-Step Directions From Taipei 101 Mall
1. Exit Taipei 101 Mall: Use the main exit toward Xinyi Road or the underground connection to Taipei 101/World Trade Center MRT Station. The underground passage provides weather protection and direct access to the MRT entrance.
2. Enter MRT Station: Look for "Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station" (台北101/世貿站) entrance. This station serves the Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) with clear bilingual signage throughout.
3. Purchase MRT Ticket: Use ticket machines (accept cash or credit cards) or tap your EasyCard. If you don't have an EasyCard, consider purchasing one for convenient travel throughout Taipei.
4. Find Platform Direction: Follow signs for "Tamsui" (淡水) direction. Do NOT board trains toward "Xiangshan" (象山) as this goes the wrong direction.
5. Board Red Line Train: Take any train heading toward Tamsui. The journey passes through: Xinyi Anhe → Daan → Zhongxiao Fuxing → Zhongxiao Xinsheng → Shanxi Nanjing → Zhongshan → Shuanglian → Minquan West Road → Yuanshan → Jiantan
6. Exit at Jiantan Station: This is your destination station (9 stops from Taipei 101). Use Exit 1 for the shortest walk to Shilin Night Market.
7. Walk to Night Market: Exit the station and walk straight along Jihe Road for about 300 meters (3-4 minutes). You'll see increasing food stalls and crowds as you approach the market entrance.
Alternative Transportation Options Taxi, Bus & Private
Taxi Service: Direct taxi from Taipei 101 to Shilin Night Market costs approximately NT$200-300 (US$6-10) depending on traffic conditions. Journey time varies from 15 minutes during off-peak hours to 35+ minutes during rush hour. Taxis are readily available at Taipei 101 mall exits and surrounding hotels.
Bus Options: Several bus routes connect Xinyi District to Shilin area, including Bus #266 and #287. However, buses require transfers and take significantly longer than MRT, making them less recommended for tourists unfamiliar with Taipei's bus system.
Private Car/Uber: Ride-sharing services operate throughout Taipei, with pickup available at Taipei 101. Costs range from NT$250-400 depending on demand and traffic. Consider that parking near Shilin Night Market is limited and expensive during peak hours.
Timing Your Visit Optimal Travel Schedule
Best Departure Times: Leave Taipei 101 area between 5:30-6:30 PM to arrive at Shilin Night Market just as food stalls are opening and before peak crowds arrive. This timing allows you to enjoy sunset views from Taipei 101 before transitioning to night market culture.
Avoid Rush Hour: MRT trains become very crowded between 5:00-7:00 PM with commuters. If traveling during these hours, expect packed trains but frequent service. Standing passengers should hold handrails securely.
Return Journey Considerations: Plan your return trip before 11:30 PM to ensure comfortable MRT travel. The last trains on the Red Line depart Jiantan around midnight, but service becomes less frequent after 11:00 PM.
Perfect Evening Itinerary Taipei 101 + Shilin Combination
Late Afternoon at Taipei 101: Visit the observation deck between 4:00-5:30 PM to experience both daylight and sunset views of Taipei. The 89th floor indoor observatory and 91st floor outdoor deck provide spectacular perspectives of the city before your night market adventure.
Shopping at Taipei 101 Mall: If shopping interests you, explore the luxury brands and international stores in Taipei 101 mall before departing for the authentic local experience at Shilin Night Market. This creates an interesting contrast between international luxury and traditional Taiwanese culture.
Dining Strategy: Consider light refreshments at Taipei 101 if needed, but save your appetite for the extensive food options at Shilin Night Market. The night market offers far more authentic and affordable dining experiences than tourist-oriented venues.
This convenient transportation connection makes it easy to experience both modern and traditional Taipei in a single evening. For more planning ideas, explore our guides to Taipei attractions, other night markets, and nearby hotels for your Taiwan adventure.