Straight Off the Plane and Into the Streets of Ximending
#springitinerary We landed at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport full of excitement, eager to begin our Taipei adventure. Immigration and baggage claim were smooth, and before long, we were ready to head into the city.
From the airport, we took the Taoyuan Airport MRT — a clean, modern, and convenient ride. The Express train brought us to Taipei Main Station in about 35 minutes, offering a quiet and comfortable journey with free Wi-Fi and luggage racks. Once we arrived at Taipei Main Station, we transferred to the Taipei MRT Blue Line (Bannan Line) and rode just two stops to Ximen Station, which sits right in the middle of the action.
Stepping out of the MRT, we were instantly swept into the energy of Ximending. The pedestrian-only streets were alive with flashing signs, street performers, loud music, and crowds of people browsing trendy boutiques, anime shops, and food stalls. It was a huge shift from the calm and quiet of the train ride — but in the best way possible.
We strolled through the maze of alleys, people-watching and getting our first real taste of Taipei’s youthful, vibrant side. One of our first stops was a cup of oolong milk tea, something we had been looking forward to since the plane. The tea had that signature roasted aroma of Taiwanese oolong, smooth and slightly floral, perfectly blended with creamy milk. Served ice-cold, it was refreshing and surprisingly soothing amid the urban buzz.
Not far from the center of Ximending, we joined the line for the famous Ah Chung Mee Sua. The storefront was simple — no seats, no frills — just a quick-moving queue and a crowd gathered around with steaming paper bowls in hand. The moment we got ours, we understood the hype. The vermicelli soup was thick and hearty, with a rich, garlicky broth and soft, silky noodles that practically melted in the mouth. Inside were tender pieces of braised intestine — a Taiwanese specialty — but you could also skip it and still enjoy the flavorful broth and chewy texture. A splash of vinegar and chili sauce gave it that extra depth and warmth.
We stood there on the sidewalk like everyone else, savoring each spoonful, watching the city move around us. No chairs, no formal dining, but somehow it felt just right — a perfect introduction to Taipei’s street food culture.
Ximending was loud, a little chaotic, but filled with personality. Between the oolong milk tea, the mee sua, and the neon-drenched streets, it gave us a vivid and flavorful start to our first day in Taipei.