2024 Taitung Downtown/Tiehua Village Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)
Recommendations for 3 Must-Buy Souvenirs in Taitung.
When traveling to Taitung, besides enjoying the natural scenery, the most anticipated spot is definitely Qingze for souvenir shopping. This time, I visited their branch in Tiehua Village, which also offers a chance to indulge in some literary vibes. Here, I share my top three recommended souvenirs that are so addictive, I must stock up every time I visit.
Qingze is the largest souvenir brand in Taitung, with its own factory producing high-quality products. Their specialties include handmade Qima Crisps, pineapple cakes, egg rolls, and mille-feuille pastries, among others. They offer a variety of flavors and different gift box designs, making them perfect gifts for friends, colleagues, and bosses.
Of course, you have to sample the products first. Taiwanese souvenir shops are very generous, allowing you to taste everything before buying. Most of Qingze's products are suitable for lacto-ovo vegetarians, with a few containing fish or meat, but everything is clearly labeled, so there's no need to worry about eating the wrong thing.
Qingze Souvenir No. 1: Qima Crisps
Qingze's most popular product was developed because the owner's wife didn't like how traditional Sachima stuck to her teeth. This crispy alternative is only available at Qingze, with both sweet and savory flavors. My favorite is the scallion and garlic flavor.
Qingze Souvenir No. 2: Stuffed Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are very popular in Taiwan, especially those filled with various fillings. Qingze's peanut butter stuffed egg rolls are the best I've ever had, even better than a well-known brand available in Hong Kong. The outer layer is slightly thick, crispy, and has a rich egg flavor, with a generous peanut butter filling that is very satisfying.
Qingze Souvenir No. 3: Pineapple Cakes
Buying pineapple cakes is a must when visiting Taiwan, but if you're tired of the usual ones, you must try Qingze's hot air balloon-shaped gift box! Besides pineapple cakes, they also offer unique flavors like bubble tea cakes. The gift box features a paper sculpture of a hot air balloon, which can be used as a decoration after you've finished the treats!