A butcher inspects a fresh slab of pork for sale at his stall at the Hengke outdoor market in Nankang. The semi-permanent market is open almost every morning and includes a variety of produce such as fresh meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, flowers, and savory breads.
Open space markets like in Hengke are located throughout Taipei and are a part of urban activity. Shoppers often prefer them over the more modern local supermarkets for the quality and variety of the produce they offer as well as their lower prices and more congenial atmosphere.
Traditional markets are also particularly important to the local community. The routine interaction helps shoppers and vendors gain a sense of familiarity that is fundamental to developing relationships.