When it comes to the best night markets in the world, Taiwan may very well take the crown. For one, they extend beyond a foodie’s paradise of Michelin-starred stalls that typically open around 5 p.m.

Taiwan’s night markets are deeply embedded in local culture since many originated during the Qing Dynasty or Japanese colonial era. Meanwhile, most of them feature elaborate temples honoring Taiwanese gods and goddesses. Here are some of the best night markets in Taipei for cheap eats, fun shopping and abundant culture.

Shilin Night Market 士林夜市 is the godfather of night markets in Taipei, meaning that it is not only the biggest but also the most iconic. Home to 539 stalls, this is where travelers can indulge in oyster omelettes, aiyu lemon jelly and so much more traditional Taiwanese treats.

It started in 1909 as the location is near a former wharf, where produce were shipped from Shilin farms to other cities. As the number of food vendors grew, so did the crowds of customers and tourists. Don’t miss the famous Matsu Temple nestled inside the bustling market.

Raohe Night Market 饒河街夜市 bursted into the scene as one of the most visited night markets in recent years, surrounding Ciyou Temple established in 1753. It’s compartmentalized into three busy sections: daily goods, flowers / folk art, and local eats. The last section is evidently the most packed since it hubs numerous food carts. Within 600 meters, there is the crowd-pleasing Fuzhou black pepper buns, braised pork rice, oyster vermicelli…and more.

Tonghua Night Market 通化夜市 is considered as the most conveniently located choice, since it’s closest to Taipei 101. Despite its size – smaller than others on this list – the entrance welcomes travelers with Taiwanese grilled sausage. Further down a few more steps, there’s an aromatic stinky tofu stand. Feeling thirsty? Fresh sugar cane juice comes highly recommended. The Taiwanese hamburger (gua bao) is another dish not to be missed.

Ningxia Night Market 寧夏夜市 has also been a fan-favorite in recent years, as it’s the closest to the centrally located Taipei Main Station. It’s also one of the oldest night markets in Taipei, situated near Dihua Street – Taipei’s most ancient street. For oyster omelette lovers, Ningxia features the oldest stall selling the savory dish. Another incredible snack requiring wait time is Liu Yu Zai’s taro and egg yolk balls.

Keelung MiaoKou Night Market 廟口夜市 isn’t technically located in Taipei, but in Keelung – a 40-minute drive from Taipei. It’s one of the best night markets all-around, since it opens 24 hours a day and surrounds the stunning Dianji Temple built in 1873. The market has been thriving since the Japanese colonial period, and is recognized by abundant rows of glowing yellow and red lanterns. Every stall is delicious, not to mention, it’s the one that Anthony Bourdain visited during his trip to Taiwan.

Gongguan Night Market 公館夜市 is where the college kids frequent, located near Taiwan’s most prestigious campus: National Taiwan University. In addition it also neighbors National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, National Taiwan Normal University, and International Chinese Language Program. What sets this market apart from others is the amount of stalls catering to vegans and vegetarians.

Shida Night Market 師大夜市 is another student-oriented night market, situated next to National Taiwan Normal University. For decades, it was known as one of the busiest night markets in Taipei, but recent reorganization combined with protests from locals, the government has restricted the market by downsizing the number of stalls and vendors. Shida Night Market remains on this list due to its location in Da’an district, also not too far away from Taipei 101.