Tainan Retro Day Trip ItineraryA romantic old-school tour of historical sites and gourmet delights, with 4 stops to transport you back to a bygone era

A morning in Tainan is best begun at the lively, historic West Market. This public market, built in 1905 and affectionately known to locals as "Big Food Market," recently reopened with a stunning new look after a meticulous 20-year restoration. Now predominantly white, the revitalized West Market retains its classic Mansard roof and has been hailed by many as Tainan's most beautiful heritage market.

The market currently hosts a variety of unique vendors, offering everything from creative handicrafts and light refreshments to classic deli items. Strolling through the bright, spacious corridors in the morning breeze, weaving between stalls, you can deeply feel the unique charm and rebirth of Tainan's century-old market — it's the perfect starting point for your day.

West Market

• Address: Intersection of Ximen Road Section 2 and Zhengxing Street, West Central District, Tainan City

After exploring the West Market, a short walk brings you to Eirakukan, located at the intersection of Guohua Street and Zhongzheng Road. This venue, originally a landmark theater built in 1935 during the Japanese colonial era, was later meticulously restored by the renowned local brand Hsin Tung Yang. It perfectly recreates the Art Deco style and retro ticket booth of Suehirocho from that period, making it an ideal indoor escape from the heat and a fantastic spot for photos.

The first floor houses a Hsin Tung Yang store and periodically hosts pop-up local food vendors. Ascend to the second floor, and you'll find a free-to-access art and cultural exhibition and relaxation space. It retains a strong nostalgic cinema ambiance, with thoughtful lighting and decor that make every snapshot a retro masterpiece with a Showa-era feel.

Eirakukan

• Address: No. 220, Zhongzheng Rd, West Central District, Tainan City
• Hours: 10:00-22:00

For an afternoon break, we recommend driving to Changbei Street in North District to visit Chuai Cha, a famous, often-queued-for specialty tea venue in Tainan. This discreet venue, tucked away on a corner, is take-out only and operates just four days a week, closing at 5 PM. Yet, it still draws countless tea connoisseurs who seek out its exceptional quality.

Driven by an extreme pursuit of tea quality, the venue specializes in high-grade unsweetened pure teas. The most impressive highlight is their meticulous creation of custom tea ice cubes, ensuring that even as the ice melts, every sip remains rich, flavorful, and undiluted. We recommend ordering a cup of Alishan Four Seasons Spring or Hand-Roasted Oolong. Take this premium tea with you as you stroll through Tainan, letting the pure aroma accompany a delightful and leisurely afternoon.

As your day winds down and night falls, head to the charming and lively You'ai Market for a late-night dessert! This traditional daytime market transforms into a beloved late-night spot, drawing local creatives and foodies alike. Tucked away inside, Tomato crepe is an absolute must-visit for its incredibly popular French crepes.

This unique stall, open just four days a week, boasts a cute, retro American vibe that creates a charming contrast with the traditional market atmosphere. We highly recommend the cinnamon sugar and classic butter flavors; the warm, gentle cinnamon aroma paired with a light, non-greasy texture is instantly addictive. If you're craving something savory, they also offer options like tomato cheese or spicy meat sauce hot dog cheese.

While there's often a long line, holding a warm, delicate crepe on a cool Tainan night is the most comforting and satisfying way to perfectly cap off your Tainan day trip!

TOMATO

• Address: No. 117, You'ai Street, West Central District, Tainan City, 700
• Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 18:00-22:00
• Price: NT$100 per person