Kauai

16 Days of Night Markets and Neon

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Taiwan is a sensory overload in the best possible way. From the dizzying neon glow of Taipei to the mist-shrouded tea houses of Jiufen, this itinerary balances frenetic city energy with deep historical roots. We packed a single 30L bag each, navigating the humid subtropical climate and dense night markets with ease.

Film photograph
FUJI X100V — 23MM — TAIPEI
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PORTRA 400 — 35MM — HONG KONG
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ILFORD HP5 — 50MM — JIUFEN
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FUJI X100V — 23MM — NIGHT MARKET
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PORTRA 400 — 35MM — TRANSIT
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ILFORD HP5 — 50MM — CITYSCAPE

Cultural Context

The Ghost Month
Book

The Ghost Month

By Ed Lin. A gripping thriller that perfectly captures the humidity and food of Taiwan.

View Book
Chungking Express
Film

Chungking Express

Directed by Wong Kar-wai. A neon-soaked masterpiece capturing the frantic energy of Hong Kong.

Watch Trailer
Hong Kong City Pop
Music

Hong Kong City Pop

A curated playlist of nostalgic 80s Cantonese pop for late-night train rides.

Listen on Spotify

The Highs & Lows

Biggest Spend

The Michelin-starred dim sum in Hong Kong. Worth every penny.

Biggest Save

Opting for guesthouses over international hotel chains saved us nearly $600.

$2,500 TOTAL / PERSON

Travel: $1,000 (40%)
Lodging: $750 (30%)
Food: $375 (15%)
Activities: $250 (10%)
Souvenirs: $125 (5%)