By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
Taiwanese cuisine is world-renowned, and many international tourists are captivated by the diverse flavors of Taiwan. Rakuten Travel Japan has released a ranking of the most beloved Taiwanese foods among Japanese visitors, showcasing the top ten dishes that Japanese people love the most in Taiwan—let’s see how they differ from local Taiwanese tastes.
Xiao long bao, with their thin skin and juicy filling, are a favorite among Japanese people. (Image source / Din Tai Fung)
1st Place: Xiao Long Bao
With nearly one-third of the votes, xiao long bao—known for their thin skin and juicy filling—are indeed the favorite of Japanese people, taking the championship with an overwhelming number of votes.
2nd Place: Lu Rou Fan
As one of Taiwan’s iconic dishes, lu rou fan features rich braised sauce paired with locally grown rice—every bite is full of authentic Taiwanese flavor.
The combination of fresh mango and shaved ice wins over many Japanese hearts. (Image source / Mango Cha Cha)
3rd Place: Mango Shaved Ice
Taiwan’s go-to summer treat, mango shaved ice, is made with velvety shaved ice topped with fresh mango and sweet syrup—this dessert has won over many Japanese hearts.
4th Place: Beef Noodles
Another Taiwanese classic, beef noodles, features a rich broth and tender chunks of beef—just one bowl leaves you feeling completely satisfied.
5th Place: Tofu Pudding
Silky tofu pudding, paired with various toppings like red beans, tapioca pearls, and peanuts, creates a layered and delicious flavor.
Danzai noodles with their rich flavor are a favorite of many Japanese. (Image source / Dou Xiao Yue Dan Zai Mian)
6th Place: Dan Zai Noodles
Though the soup of dan zai noodles may look light, it has a deep flavor that gets an extra boost with just a spoonful of minced pork topping.
7th Place: Oyster Omelet
Oyster omelet is a must-try snack at Taiwan’s night markets. Fresh, plump oysters are placed on golden fried batter and drizzled with a special house-made sauce—the taste is irresistible even to Japanese people.
8th Place: Stinky Tofu
While many foreigners may consider stinky tofu the king of "scary" foods, its unique aroma is highly praised by numerous Japanese.
9th Place: Oyster Vermicelli
The sweet and savory bonito broth, paired with soft yet firm vermicelli, plus fresh oysters and intestines, is one of the Taiwanese dishes loved by Japanese people.
Stir-fried greens are a must-order dish for many Japanese visitors to Taiwan. (Image source / Drunk Cool Seafood Stir-Fry)
10th Place: Stir-Fried Greens
Veggies stir-fried over high heat after aromatics are sautéed might seem ordinary, but it's actually a dish that many Japanese specifically request when visiting Taiwan.