Is Taiwan's Best Shopping Mall Not PX or Bao Ya? Foreign Tourists Recommend This One Must-Visit Spot: 'Diverse Products, Affordable Prices' — Open 24 Hours?

When overseas tourists visit Taipei, in addition to iconic landmarks like Taipei 101 and famous night markets for local snacks, shopping at large retail stores for daily necessities and snacks has become a popular itinerary item.

Recently, a female tourist from Hong Kong shared her travel plans on a social media platform after returning to Taipei for the first time in four years. Surprisingly, her first stop upon landing was not a scenic spot but "Guangnan Dabufa," a traditional discount department store near Taipei Main Station—sparking widespread curiosity and discussion online.

The Hong Kong netizen titled her post "A must-visit in Taipei—you’ll regret missing it," revealing that on her first day in the city, she immediately headed to Guangnan Dabufa near Taipei Station to stock up on daily essentials. She showcased her haul: muscle pain patches, brown sugar longan red date paste, instant corn soup cups, and various greeting cards and stationery items. Excitedly, she wrote, "It’s only Day One, so I didn’t buy too much—I’ll probably come back for more," clearly expressing her strong affection for this long-standing retailer.

### How to Shop Efficiently at a Legacy Store: An Insider’s Three-Floor Shopping Strategy

To help other travelers plan their visits, the original poster generously shared her tried-and-tested shopping route developed over years. Since the store spans three floors, she strongly recommends taking the elevator directly to the third floor and then descending floor by floor via stairs.

In terms of layout: - Third floor: Cosmetics and skincare products - Second floor: Stationery and cards - First floor: Audiovisual CDs and electronic accessories

She added that the store offers an incredibly diverse range of affordable items, making it nearly impossible for anyone to leave empty-handed. Recalling her first trip to Taipei a decade ago as a student, she was deeply attracted by Guangnan, buying “so many stationery items.” Although similar chain stores are now widespread, Guangnan stands out due to its prime location and nostalgic memories, ensuring it remains on her must-visit list with every Taiwan trip.

### Why Are Locals Surprised? Taiwanese and Hong Kong Netizens Discuss This Hidden Gem

In response to some locals questioning why tourists would be enthusiastic about visiting such a store, the poster candidly stated, "The items at Guangnan are genuinely cheap. Often, locals don’t understand tourists’ perspectives—just as I wouldn’t specifically go out for roast meat rice when in Hong Kong."

This relatable sentiment quickly resonated with many Hong Kong travelers, who commented: "I’ve been there before—every time I went, the store was full of Hong Kong people," and "I miss Taiwan’s stationery—affordable, practical, and abundant in choice. It’s a student’s paradise."

The post also drew reactions from local Taiwanese netizens. Given Guangnan has numerous branches across Taiwan, many locals have grown up shopping there and expressed surprise: "I’m shocked—turns out Guangnan is considered a tourist attraction by others. I’ve always treated it like the corner convenience store," and "I never thought Guangnan could become a sightseeing spot." Some longtime absentees even admitted, "I haven’t been in years, but your post made me want to revisit," unexpectedly sparking a wave of nostalgia for childhood shopping experiences.