The More the Merrier: Why Taiwan Loves Crowded Night Markets

There's a saying in Taiwan that might puzzle most Westerners: "The more crowded it is, the more lively and better the experience." Nowhere is this cultural difference more apparent than at Taiwan's iconic night markets, where the concept of personal space gets completely redefined. 

You may know Taiwan is famous for its night markets, but do you know that Taiwanese actually prefer going to a bustling one over a quiet one? Not just because of the food, but also for the unique joy of being part of a shoulder-to-shoulder crowd, feeling the shared energy that turns a simple meal into a social ritual.

Growing up in Taiwan, I have always loved going to night markets. I may complain about the huge crowds, but deep down, I think I actually enjoy squeezing through the narrow gaps and finding my way to the stalls. There is something comforting about the noise, the energy, and the shared experience of hunting for the best snacks in a sea of people. 

(Source: HSNEWS)

Cultural Collision

Here's the thing: while locals see a packed night market as a good sign, my Western friends often react very differently. What feels festive to us can feel overwhelming to someone who grew up with more physical boundaries and a different idea of a good time. 

When I took my Western friends to some popular night markets in Taipei, we had barely made it ten steps in when I noticed them looking distinctly uncomfortable. Eyes darting, shoulders hunched, constantly apologizing for bumping into people. And this was a normal night, not even a weekend. Their faces revealed how desperately they wanted to escape, even though they were trying to be polite. 

Even my husband, who usually enjoys Taiwanese food, did not have a great time. Despite how tasty everything was, he found the crowd exhausting and the tight spaces overwhelming. For him, the food alone could not compensate for the stress of navigating through what felt like a human traffic jam. 

Cultural Perspectives on Crowds

For Taiwanese people, a crowded night market is the ultimate seal of approval. If a night market is packed with people, it means the food must be outstanding, the deals incredible, and the atmosphere electric. We don't just tolerate crowds; we actively seek them out as a sign of quality and authenticity. The narrow alleyways between vendors become human rivers, carrying you along in their current. 

Taiwanese culture, like many East Asian societies, emphasizes collective experiences and communal enjoyment. Being physically close to others isn't seen as an invasion of privacy but rather as sharing in a common experience. 

But in many Western cultures, especially where personal space is highly valued, this kind of close contact environment can feel chaotic. People are not used to standing shoulder to shoulder with strangers while chewing on deep fried squid or trying not to spill bubble tea. To them, a good meal is quiet, relaxed, and ideally served without elbow traffic. 

It might feel overwhelming at first, but that crowd is part of the charm. Instead of avoiding it, try leaning in. The noise, the closeness, the energy is what makes a Taiwanese night market come alive. And when you finally sit down with a mango shaved ice, you will realize you were not just grabbing a bite. You were tasting a culture.

(Source: CNA)

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