Taiwan blends ancient tradition with a creative modern spirit. From bustling night markets to tranquil temples and tea-covered hills, every corner offers something memorable.

Whether it’s hand-crafted goods, cultural keepsakes, or tasty treats, here’s what to buy in Taiwan to take a little Formosa magic home with you.

1. Taiwanese Tea

• Why pick this up: Taiwan’s mountain-grown teas are among the world’s best — fragrant, smooth, and packed with character. Tea drinking here is an art form, symbolizing balance and mindfulness.
• What to look for: High Mountain (Alishan) Oolong, Dong Ding, or Sun Moon Lake black tea.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$300–1,500.
• Where to find it: Tea houses in Taipei or Alishan tea farms.

2. Pineapple Cakes (Feng Li Su)

• Why pick this up: Buttery, crumbly pastry filled with sweet pineapple jam — these iconic treats are a Taiwanese classic and symbolize good fortune.
• What to look for: Individually wrapped cakes from brands like SunnyHills or Chia Te.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$250–600 per box.
• Where to find it: Bakeries, airports, and tourist shops.

3. Sky Lanterns from Pingxi

• Why pick this up: Releasing a sky lantern is a beautiful Taiwanese tradition — writing your wishes before watching them float into the night sky. A miniature one makes a heartfelt souvenir.
• What to look for: Small decorative paper lanterns for home display.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$150–400.
• Where to find it: Pingxi or Shifen Old Street.

4. Jade Jewelry

• Why pick this up: Jade has been treasured in Taiwan for centuries, symbolizing purity, luck, and protection. A piece of jade jewelry carries a sense of timeless elegance and local culture.
• What to look for: Green jade bangles, pendants, or carved figurines.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$800–5,000+.
• Where to find it: Jianguo Jade Market in Taipei.

5. Taiwanese Snacks

• Why pick this up: Taiwan’s snack scene is legendary — crispy, chewy, spicy, and always addictive. Locals are proud of their unique snack creations.
• What to look for: Dried mango, seaweed crackers, mochi, and bubble tea-flavored treats.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$100–400.
• Where to find it: Night markets or convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart.

6. Handmade Pottery

• Why pick this up: Taiwan’s pottery tradition dates back thousands of years and reflects its blend of natural beauty and artistic skill. The textures and glazes often evoke misty mountains and calm seas.
• What to look for: Handcrafted tea cups or vases from Yingge, Taiwan’s pottery capital.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$400–2,000.
• Where to find it: Yingge Ceramics Museum and local artisan shops.

7. Taiwanese Aboriginal Crafts

• Why pick this up: The island’s indigenous cultures produce stunning handmade crafts — woven bags, beadwork, and textiles that celebrate heritage and tradition.
• What to look for: Handwoven bracelets or patterns featuring tribal motifs.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$300–1,200.
• Where to find it: Aboriginal art markets or cultural centers.

8. Bubble Tea Merchandise

• Why pick this up: Born in Taiwan, bubble tea is now a global phenomenon. Souvenirs themed around it — mugs, socks, or even keychains — are quirky, fun, and unmistakably Taiwanese.
• What to look for: Items featuring tapioca pearls or cute “boba” illustrations.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$200–800.
• Where to find it: Gift shops in Ximending or Taoyuan Airport.

9. Taiwanese Stationery

• Why pick this up: Taiwan is a paradise for stationery lovers — home to beautifully designed notebooks, washi tape, and pens inspired by local culture.
• What to look for: High-quality paper goods from Taiwanese brands like TOAST or Tools to Liveby.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$150–600.
• Where to find it: Bookstores and design shops in Taipei.

10. Local Art Prints and Calligraphy

• Why pick this up: From modern illustration to traditional ink painting, Taiwanese art reflects both creativity and cultural pride. A framed print brings a touch of East Asia into your home.
• What to look for: Prints of Taipei 101, night markets, or mountain temples.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$500–1,500.
• Where to find it: Red House (Ximending) or art boutiques.

11. Taiwanese Ceremonial Masks

• Why pick this up: Used in temple festivals and folk performances, these vibrant masks tell stories from Chinese opera and local mythology. They make striking wall décor pieces.
• What to look for: Hand-painted wooden or papier-mâché masks.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$600–2,000.
• Where to find it: Dihua Street markets or folk art stores.

12. Taiwanese Beer or Rice Wine

• Why pick this up: Taiwan Beer is crisp, refreshing, and practically part of the national identity. For something more traditional, try Shaoxing-style rice wine made locally.
• What to look for: Taiwan Beer Gold Medal or local craft brews.
• Price bracket (2025): NT$80–300.
• Where to find it: Supermarkets and convenience stores.

🧧 Final Tip

For a perfect mix of flavor, tradition, and creativity, choose Taiwanese tea, pineapple cakes, and handmade pottery — souvenirs that truly capture the heart of Taiwan.

Let me know in the comments if you have any other top “what to buy” ideas!

About the Author 

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!