【2025 taiwan souvenirs Guide】Top 10 Must-Buy Gifts from Taiwan – Where to Buy Them & Can You Take Them Abroad? Complete Guide!

Introduction

In addition to Taiwan’s breathtaking natural scenery and rich cultural atmosphere, the island is also a true paradise for food and shopping, especially for foreign visitors. The wide array of taiwan souvenirs can easily leave you standing in front of shelves unsure where to begin. For first-time travelers, choosing a gift that both represents Taiwan and expresses heartfelt intention is an essential part of the journey.

That’s why this article is tailor-made for your 2025 Taiwan trip — a definitive guide to the top 10 most popular souvenirs. We've categorized them according to different international traveler preferences, and included the most crucial information: where to buy taiwan souvenirs and which ones can be brought overseas. If you're wondering what to buy in taiwan, you're definitely not alone — it's one of the most common questions among visitors. So whether it’s your first time or you’re a returning fan of Taiwan, this guide will help you find the perfect Taiwanese specialty effortlessly!

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 1. Taiwanese High Mountain Tea

Image Source: Daughter’s Tea Official Website

When it comes to the most famous souvenir in taiwan, high mountain tea always tops the list!

Thanks to Taiwan’s unique terrain, the island is home to over 268 mountains above 3,000 meters. Many of these regions produce exceptional tea with fresh, fragrant aromas. As a result, “high mountain tea” has become a symbol of Taiwanese pride — not only beloved by locals, but also a must-buy taiwan souvenirs for many international visitors.

High mountain tea generally refers to tea grown at elevations over 1,000 meters. Each mountainous area produces tea with distinct flavors due to differences in climate, humidity, and soil. Here are some of the most beloved tea regions among tea enthusiasts:

• Alishan Tea: Mild and sweet with a refreshing taste, perfect for beginners (Elevation approx. 1,000m)

• Shanlinxi Tea: Rich aroma with a clear brew (Elevation approx. 1,600m)

• Hehuanshan Tea: Deep and mellow aroma with a lasting aftertaste (Elevation approx. 1,800m)

• Lishan Tea: Renowned as the finest of the finest, it offers a rich and refined flavor. (Elevation approx. 2,000m)

Because of this, the terroir and tea-making techniques of each high mountain region directly impact the quality and price of the tea.

If you're planning to bring home a premium Taiwanese specialty, we highly recommend choosing a reputable store or brand. To help you make the right choice, this guide highlights taiwan best souvenirs that are both authentic and highly praised by locals and travelers alike. Otherwise, you might end up spending a lot only to bring back tea that isn’t truly “authentic” — a costly mistake!

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 2. Egg Rolls

Image Source: Fu Yi Shan Official Website

When it comes to star players in the dessert world, egg rolls have rapidly risen as one of the most popular Taiwanese snack souvenirs in recent years!

You might not have noticed, but this seemingly simple treat has quietly become a must-buy snack for many tourists, often ranking in the top ten souvenir lists across Taiwan.

What makes Taiwanese egg rolls so irresistible isn’t just their crispy, buttery flavor — it’s also the fusion of innovative flavors and health-conscious recipes that allow you to indulge without the guilt.

For instance, Taiwan Tobacco and Liquor Corporation has launched red yeast egg rolls, combining local ingredients with a healthy concept. They’re unique, flavorful, and guilt-free — even I’m a huge fan!

If you're looking for handmade egg rolls, you definitely shouldn't miss Fu Yi Shan in Chiayi. This iconic local brand is a must-visit destination for egg roll lovers, drawing long lines nearly every day!

They’re known for offering limited quantities each day, available only for a short time, and the flavors change regularly. At times, the demand is so high that people even hire others to stand in line or purchase on their behalf. — it’s even made the news!

With its irresistible taste, creative variations, and compelling story, egg rolls make a fantastic gift or treat for yourself. If you’re looking for a refined and representative souvenir, this iconic Taiwanese snack won’t disappoint you!

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 3. Pineapple Cakes & Traditional Pastries

Image Source: SunnyHills Official Website

If there’s one pastry that best represents Taiwanese treats, pineapple cakes would definitely be at the top of the list! Whether you're visiting Taiwan for the first time or shopping for friends and family, pineapple cakes are often the number one go-to souvenir. When people think about taiwan souvenirs food, pineapple cakes immediately come to mind because of their unique flavor and cultural significance. These delightful pastries perfectly capture the essence of Taiwanese culinary traditions.

There are two main types of Taiwanese pineapple cakes:
One uses pure pineapple filling, offering a rich fruit flavor with a slightly tart finish — brands like SunnyHills are iconic for this refreshing, less-sweet style. The other combines pineapple fiber with winter melon paste, resulting in a sweeter and smoother texture — Chia Te Bakery is the classic representative of this style.

Speaking of Chia Te, before the pandemic, its stores were packed with tourists — especially from China — during peak seasons. People would buy pineapple cakes by boxes, showing just how irresistible this Taiwanese treat is to mainland visitors!

Besides pineapple cakes, there are also hugely popular pastries like Xiao Pan's Phoenix Cakes and Fujiya’s Salted Egg Yolk Pastries. Locals and tourists alike are willing to wait in long lines for them. You can also buy these delicious taiwan gifts online. If you love traditional snacks and want to explore new flavors, these pastries are absolute must-haves on your souvenir list!

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 4. Nougat / Nougat Crackers

Image Source: Sugar & Spice Official Website

One bite of Taiwan’s nougat and you’ll instantly be hooked by its rich milky aroma and chewy texture filled with crunchy nuts — it’s seriously addictive and hard to stop at just one!

In recent years, traditional nougat has seen all kinds of creative upgrades. Take nougat crackers, for example — where nougat is sandwiched between crispy scallion soda crackers — delivering an irresistible salty-sweet balance that surprises many. Another popular variation is the “Marshmallow Biscuit,” which blends marshmallows and nougat into a soft and chewy treat that’s visually appealing and trending all over Instagram.

These tasty and diverse versions of nougat have transformed this once-festive treat into one of the most beloved Taiwanese snack souvenirs. Whether for gifting or self-indulgence, nougat has definitely earned its spot on the souvenir shelf. It’s even become a favorite among Japanese tourists — so don’t miss the chance to try it for yourself!

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 5. Dried Fruits

Image Source: Xibei Culture

When visiting Taiwan, not only the hot street food leaves an impression — the island’s vibrant and fresh seasonal fruits are also unforgettable! Taiwan is blessed with diverse fruit varieties and high sweetness levels all year round. Mangoes in summer, strawberries in winter — these are local favorites and sources of pride.

Unfortunately, fresh fruits aren’t allowed through customs in many countries, which is a real disappointment for many travelers. But Taiwan’s innovative spirit has solved this problem brilliantly — by turning seasonal fruits into dried snacks! They’re easy to store, compact to carry, and retain the original flavors. You can even choose sugar-free options for a healthier treat!

Whether you prefer the sweet-and-tart flavor of dried strawberries, the tropical richness of dried mango, or the chewy freshness of dried guava, nearly every Taiwanese fruit has a dried version. Many modern brands now also emphasize using natural ingredients and zero additives, making these dried fruit products perfect for both gifting and personal enjoyment.

If you're looking for a healthy yet flavor-packed souvenir that truly represents Taiwan, these dried fruit selections are a definite must-buy!

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 6. Instant Noodles

Image Source: Uni-President Official Website

When it comes to the most iconic instant noodle souvenir from Taiwan, the *Imperial Big Meal* is an absolute must! No exaggeration — this noodle series isn’t just beloved by locals, for many international travelers, it’s so impressive that they’ve ranked it as 'gourmet cuisine in the world of instant noodles.'”

Uni-President’s *Imperial Big Meal Braised Beef Noodles* is packed with hearty chunks of stewed beef, and the moment you open the seasoning pack, the rich aroma hits you — nothing like ordinary instant noodles. Then there’s the *Sesame Oil Chicken Noodles*, whose fragrant sesame aroma fills the room the moment hot water hits the bowl, turning your kitchen into a mini food stall. And don’t forget the classic *Minced Pork Noodles*, so fragrant with fried shallot that your neighbors will know you're enjoying a bowl of Uni noodles! These everyday Taiwanese flavors never fail to spark curiosity among international visitors.

Not only are these noodles delicious, but they’re also easy to pack and carry — which is why many travelers stock up before heading home. In fact, “Taiwan instant noodle souvenir” has become a growing trend online!

But here’s something very important: some instant noodles contain meat products, and whether you can bring them across borders depends on the destination country’s regulations. Some nations strictly prohibit importing ready-to-eat items containing meat — violating this could result in fines or confiscation!
So, always check the latest customs regulations on the official website of your destination country, or ask your airline if these items are allowed. If you’re unsure, the safest bet? Stock up and enjoy them while you're still in Taiwan!

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 7. Taiwanese Snacks & Cookies

I-Mei Puff

Image Source: I-Mei Official Website

This wildly popular treat, “I-Mei Puff,” isn’t just a nostalgic favorite among locals — even Korean superstar IU is a fan! She once lit up at the airport upon spotting fans holding these puffs — how cute is that!

These bite-sized puff cookies aren’t just famous in Asia — they were even served at an official diplomatic event in the Czech Republic! With their crispy shell and rich milk, strawberry, or chocolate filling, every bite delivers a creamy explosion of happiness. The compact packaging makes them perfect for travel or as a handy, guilt-free snack on the go.

Thanks to its strong brand reputation and iconic taste, I-Mei Puffs have become a favorite Taiwanese snack souvenir for many tourists. A personal tip? Try tossing the whole bag in the freezer — they’re surprisingly delicious chilled!

Kuai Kuai

Image Source: Kuai Kuai Official Website

When it comes to Taiwanese snack legends, nothing beats “Kuai Kuai.”

This classic childhood snack isn’t just tasty — it’s believed to carry a uniquely Taiwanese superstition: keeping machines from breaking down. Not a joke! From office desks to computer rooms and even factory floors, you’ll often spot a bag of Kuai Kuai sitting by the equipment like a loyal guardian. While there’s no scientific proof, it has become a widely accepted ritual among engineers and tech workers!

Of course, beyond the mystique, Kuai Kuai is genuinely delicious. If this is your first time trying it, we recommend starting with these two iconic flavors:

🟢 Green Package – Butter Coconut Flavor: Sweet and fragrant — a favorite for those with a sweet tooth.

🟡 Yellow Package – Five-Spice Flavor: Savory and addictive — a nostalgic taste for many locals.

In recent years, Kuai Kuai has introduced creative new flavors and limited editions, turning this snack into a must-buy for international visitors who eager to bring home a piece of Taiwanese flavor.

Pea Crackers (KoLeGuo)

Image Source: Kuo Hua Official Website

If you asked me, “What’s the most addictive snack in Taiwan?” — without a second thought, my answer is always “KoLeGuo!”

This crispy, crunchy snack with its bold garlic flavor has a kind of magic—once you open the bag, it's hard not to finish it all. Bite after bite, it disappears before you know it — sound familiar?

Although KoLeGuo has released many fun new flavors recently — from spicy chili and Liuzhou Luosifen to stir-fried clams and three-cup chicken — my personal favorite is still the classic original flavor. That savory garlic punch brings back so many memories. It never gets old!

If it’s your first time in Taiwan and you want a snack souvenir that’s safe, tasty, and easy to fall in love with — KoLeGuo is a must-pack. Trust me, once you try the original flavor, you’ll understand the hype!

Hwa Yuan Oyster Omelet Chips

Before coming to Taiwan, you probably already have a list of must-try foods — like salt & pepper chicken, bubble tea, and oyster omelets, right? But did you know? Many of these iconic night market dishes have now been turned into snacks!

One of the most creative long-selling items is Hwa Yuan’s “Oyster Omelet Chips.” Yes, you heard that right! Taiwan’s beloved night market dish has been transformed into savory, crispy chips bursting with the scent of seafood and sweet soy sauce — it’s seriously impressive.

This kind of snack innovation is quite common in Taiwan! Besides oyster omelet chips, you’ll also find flavors like three-cup chicken and stir-fried clams — all deliciously addictive and full of local flair.

And the best part? You can grab all of these unique taiwan snacks souvenir easily from 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or PX Mart across Taiwan. So why not stock up on “the taste of Taiwan” and bring it home to surprise your friends and family with these unforgettable local flavors?

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 8. Bubble Milk Tea Gift Sets

Image Source: Bobalicious Official Website

This iconic Taiwanese drink, available on almost every street corner, has gone from night market staple to global sensation — now officially one of the most trendy taiwan souvenirs in the world.

But here’s the problem — once many foreign travelers return home, it becomes nearly impossible to find that authentic Taiwanese bubble milk tea. Luckily, smart brands have stepped in with instant boba gift sets and ready-to-make kits. Brands like Bobalicious offer thoughtfully designed gift boxes containing milk tea powder, instant tapioca pearls, and clear English instructions, making it super easy for international friends to recreate that perfect chewy sip right at home!

These gift sets are not only convenient and tasty — they’re also a beautiful way to share the flavor and creativity of Taiwan. For anyone looking to impress, these make perfect gift taiwan souvenirs that bring a piece of the island right into your loved ones' hands. Just imagine: you're home, telling your friends about your Taiwan adventures while brewing a fresh cup of bubble tea. The aroma fills the air, pearls bounce with that signature chew — it’s an immersive, delicious flashback!

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 9. Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor

Image Source: Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor Inc. Official Website

If you’re looking for the most iconic Taiwanese liquor, Kinmen Kaoliang is second to none!

This bold and fiery sorghum liquor, brewed by the Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor Inc. on Kinmen island, is rich in aroma and packs a serious punch. It’s a beloved classic among spirit enthusiasts — the kind of drink that leaves a lasting impression after just one sip.

Its intense flavor and traditional craftsmanship have made Kinmen Kaoliang increasingly popular among international travelers, and it’s now frequently listed in "must-buy from Taiwan" online discussions.

So, where can you get the best deals on Kinmen Kaoliang? Large retail chains like Carrefour or Costco sometimes offer great discounts. You can also check duty-free shops at the airport or specialty stores in Kinmen itself — where you may even find limited edition bottles. If you’re lucky enough to fly to Kinmen, it’s definitely worth picking up a bottle straight from the source!

But a quick reminder: if you plan to bring it abroad, make sure to check your destination’s alcohol import regulations ahead of time. Carrying more than allowed or missing required labels could result in fines or confiscation.

Whether as a gift or a personal keepsake, Kinmen Kaoliang is a meaningful souvenir that blends flavor, tradition, and cultural pride. Fun fact — it’s also adored in Korea! In fact, the leading actress Ha Ji-Won from the K-drama *Secret Garden* reportedly bought Kinmen Kaoliang during her trip to Taiwan as a gift for her friends. How cool is that?

Top 10 Must-Buy taiwan souvenirs 10. MIT Facial Masks

Image Source: Neogence Official Website

When people think of MIT (Made in Taiwan) products, they often think of electronics. But in recent years, Taiwan’s “Made in Taiwan” label has gained huge international popularity in the beauty, skincare, and lifestyle industries too!

Among the top must-buy items for tourists? Facial masks! In hot spots like Ximending, Shilin Night Market, or near Taipei Main Station, you’ll often see foreign travelers loading up boxes of facial masks from drugstores like Watsons, Cosmed, and POYA. Some even buy in bulk for friends and family — or make a small profit through reselling. That just shows how powerful the allure of Taiwanese masks really is!

MIT facial masks are known for their affordable pricing, gentle formulas, and increasingly stylish packaging. Whether you're looking for hydration, brightening, oil control, calming, or acne repair — there’s a mask to match every skincare need. Many brands even offer travel sets or gift boxes, making them perfect non-food souvenirs to bring home or gift with pride!

📍 Pro Tip: Try a few different brands when you arrive! Popular picks include My Beauty Diary, Dr. Morita, and Dr. Wu — all widely loved by locals and tourists alike. Once you find your favorites, stock up before heading home. You’ll thank yourself later!

Where to Buy taiwan souvenirs? The Ultimate Shopping Guide!

One of the most frequently asked questions when traveling in Taiwan is: “Where can I buy taiwan souvenirs?”
Don’t worry — here’s a carefully curated shopping map to help you score the best souvenirs, whether you're on a quick trip or a slow, extended stay!

 1. Online Shopping Platforms (Perfect for long-stay travelers or early birds)

If you're staying in Taiwan for a longer period or plan to shop in bulk, we recommend ordering taiwan souvenirs online from platforms like momo Shopping, PChome 24h, or Shopee Taiwan. You can have everything delivered directly to your hotel — super convenient with endless choices!

⚠️ Tip: Before ordering, check with your hotel’s front desk to confirm if they accept package deliveries, and make sure shipping times align with your travel schedule!

2. Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, OK Mart, Hi-Life)

Taiwan has the second-highest density of convenience stores in the world — you’ll find one every few steps! These shops offer everything from ice cream, drinks, and instant noodles to KoLeGuo snacks and nougat — many of which you can’t find abroad!

3. Supermarkets / Hypermarkets (Carrefour, RT-Mart, PX Mart, A.mart)

Prefer to shop in bulk or want to know where to buy cheap souvenirs in taiwan? These big-box stores are great for loading up on cookies, instant noodles, seasoning packs, and even alcohol at wallet-friendly prices.

4. Drugstores (POYA, Cosmed, Watsons)

These three are favorites among Taiwanese women! You’ll find everything from facial masks and lip balms to MIT makeup brands — all in one place. If you’re looking for authentic and unique gifts, a taiwan souvenir shop is the perfect destination. Ideal for picking up skincare or cosmetic souvenirs, these shops offer a wide variety of locally made products that highlight Taiwan’s beauty culture.

5. Brand Boutiques / Flagship Stores

Brands like SunnyHills, Chia Te Bakery, and Dr. Morita have their own stores or counters. If you're looking for authentic products or exclusive packaging, head straight to brand boutiques or department store souvenir sections for top quality and peace of mind!

6. Airport Duty-Free Shops (Taoyuan / Songshan / Kaohsiung Airports)

Before you head home, don’t miss out on the airport duty-free shops! Taoyuan and Songshan airports are stocked with best-selling souvenir items — perfect for last-minute shopping!

That wraps up our ultimate taiwan souvenirs shopping guide! Whether you're a planner or a go-with-the-flow type, this map will have you covered. Want more product suggestions? Check out our souvenir ranking pages to keep exploring!

Which taiwan souvenirs Are Most Popular with Travelers from Different Countries?

Tourists from different countries often have unique preferences when it comes to “what souvenirs to buy in Taiwan.” Based on online search trends and past travel data, here’s a breakdown of the most beloved taiwan souvenirs by nationality — so you can gift from the heart and share a taste of Taiwan that your friends will instantly fall in love with!

Popular among Mainland Chinese Tourists

When it comes to taiwan souvenirs and gifts, in recent years, snacks like pineapple cakes, nougat, and Man Han Feast instant noodles have been major hits among travelers from China. They especially love large-pack options to share with family and friends. Just be sure to check regulations when bringing meat-based products across borders.

Must-Buys for Hong Kong Travelers

Hong Kong visitors often refer to souvenirs as “souvenirs for loved ones.” Their favorites include nougat crackers, Taiwanese teas, and facial masks. Items that come in multiple packs and offer relaxation benefits are especially popular.

Thai Travelers’ Favorites

Thai tourists love snacks and instant foods that are visually fun and taste adventurous — think DIY bubble tea kits or oyster omelet chips. These quirky treats often go viral on social media back home.

Top Picks for Korean Tourists

Facial masks are by far the number one souvenir Korean travelers buy in Taiwan! Kinmen Kaoliang and Kavalan whisky also rank high as collectible and gift-worthy items.

What Japanese Tourists Love

When Japanese travelers talk about what to bring back from Taiwan, Japanese travelers lean toward items with minimalist designs, clear ingredient sourcing, and compact packaging — such as Morita face masks or SunnyHills pineapple cakes in elegant gift boxes.

Other Countries (Malaysia / Singapore / Western Markets)

Southeast Asian tourists’ taiwan souvenir ideas often go for cookies and instant noodles, while Western travelers prefer MIT lifestyle goods and herbal skincare — like lip balm, essential oil rollers, and other natural wellness items.

Beyond Food: Unique Cultural taiwan souvenirs Worth Bringing Home

Everyone knows Taiwanese food is world-famous — but beyond snacks and sweets, Taiwan also offers plenty of meaningful, non-edible taiwan souvenirs that blend functionality with cultural charm. These thoughtful gifts easily rival the popularity of pineapple cakes and nougat.

Over the past few years, MIT skincare items like face masks, hand creams, and lip balms have gained immense popularity across Asia — and even found markets in Europe and Japan, thanks to their quality and reputation. On the cultural side, there are also beautifully crafted creative goods: Taiwanese teaware, traditional ceramics, woodblock prints, and Hakka floral fabric items — these are some heartfelt souvenirs to get from taiwan.

If you're searching for something that truly represents Taiwan, we recommend checking out cultural hubs like Eslite Spectrum, Songshan Cultural Park, or Huashan 1914 Creative Park — or visiting certified local brands and artisan shops to find authentic, meaningful gifts that capture the spirit of Taiwan.

Important Notes: Which taiwan souvenirs Can You Bring Home?

One of the most frequently asked questions after shopping for souvenirs is: “Can I bring this home?”

There isn’t a single definitive answer to this question — each country has its own regulations about importing food, plants, alcohol, and meat-based products. Here are some general guidelines:

• China: Strict restrictions on meat, egg-based products, and fresh produce

• USA & Australia: Extremely strict on meat, eggs, dairy, honey, and plant seeds

• Japan & Korea: Some processed foods are allowed, but check specifics beforehand

• Hong Kong & Singapore: More lenient, but product labeling should be clear

Quick Tips for Common Souvenir Types:

• Instant Noodles (e.g. Man Han Feast): May be restricted if they contain meat-based sauces

• Pastries (e.g. pineapple cakes, mini puffs): Usually fine, but avoid items with perishable fillings

• Alcohol (e.g. Kinmen Kaoliang, Kavalan Whisky): Permitted in limited quantities — check your country’s import limits

• Non-food items (e.g. face masks, skincare, cultural goods): Generally allowed and great for long-lasting souvenirs

📌 Reminder: Customs regulations change frequently. Always check the official customs website of your destination or local quarantine office. When in doubt, choose sealed, clearly labeled, meat-free, and long-shelf-life items — these are usually safe and perfect as souvenirs to bring abroad!

More taiwan souvenirs FAQs

Q: Which taiwan souvenirs have a long shelf life and don’t require refrigeration?

Q: Which taiwan souvenirs are exclusive and unavailable overseas?

Q: Where to buy cheap souvenirs in taipei?

Q: What to buy in taiwan duty free store?

Q: What are some good taiwan souvenirs for kids?

Q: Are there any taiwan souvenirs suitable for business gifts or high-end occasions?

Got Your Souvenirs? Don’t Forget to Plan Your Trip Too!

After reading this 2025 taiwan souvenirs guide, you’ve probably got tons of taiwan gift ideas — from pineapple cakes and high mountain tea to MIT facial masks and unique cultural keepsakes — all are beautiful expressions of Taiwanese warmth and creativity.

If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan, why not let the local experts handle your transportation? Whether it’s airport transfers, carpool rides, or flexible private charters, we recommend booking with tripool – Taiwan’s trusted ride service. Even solo travelers can ride — it’s time-saving and stress-free!

👉 Shop and travel with ease — make the most of your journey!

Questions You Might Have About Tripool

Q: Does Tripool offer airport transfer services for international arrivals?

Q: Can Tripool help with group transportation using minibuses or large tour buses?

Q: Can Tripool help if I need a multi-day travel itinerary in Taiwan?