There are many interesting sights to see in Taiwan. One I did not expect to find is the abundance of claw machines. Not only are claw machines popular with children, but they are also popular with and seen as fun by adults.
In some areas of Tainan, you can find a room filled with claw machines on every block. These rooms are often open 24/7 to Taiwan’s public. You can even go to arcade-like buildings filled with only claw machines. There are many different types of claw machines, some big or small. They can be filled with toys, everyday appliances, and even snacks. Often you can see people come out with bags filled with items, but it is hard to master how to play the claw machine games. If you are good at claw machine games, it can be a cheap way to get a present for someone or get groceries. It is easy to get wrapped up in these games, so be sure to set money limits whenever you are out playing these claw machine games.
Another popular game-like machine in Taiwan is also popular the capsule vending machine. Also known as gachapon. They can be filled with silly figures or anime figurines. They are often found in malls and stores. With so many options it would be impossible to not find a gachapon machine that doesn’t catch your attention.
You can even find these machines at Taiwan’s night markets, along with many other games and unique snacks. You will surely find something to enjoy at Taiwanese Night Markets. Often, people sing, take photos, and play games at the night markets. One of my favorite activities at the night market is perusing the stalls of unique gifts to bring home. So far, I have found cool keychains, car scents, T-shirts, and toys. I have also learned a lot about Taiwanese culture by visiting Taiwan night markets.
I believe it is a must to try Taiwanese snacks from the night market. They often have unique foods you cannot find anywhere else. Taiwan is well known for having sweet food, so if you like sweet food, you must try Taiwan potato balls and mangoes. If you don’t like sweet food, there are also other options like squid, roasted chicken, tofu, and mushrooms. Taiwan is well known for its boba, and the night market is the best time to drink boba. It will cool you down while also leaving you feeling more refreshed.
Taiwan’s night markets also have a lot of games to play. The games can often be compared to carnival games you can find in the U.S., but you can also find some unique games as well; for example, Taiwanese-style pinball and Chinese chess. If you are confident in your Chinese chess skills, you can practice at Taiwan’s night markets. There are also some classic games such as ring toss, balloon darts, and scooping goldfish.
Overall, there are a lot of fun ways to entertain yourself in Taiwan. This blog only scratches the surface of Taiwanese entertainment. So if you ever are unsure of what to do in Taiwan, try playing some of Taiwan’s claw machines, gachapons, and night market games.
Taiwan Intensive Summer Language Program (TISLP) Participant
National Cheng Kung University (NCKU)
Tainan, Taiwan, Summer 2023