Taipei’s hands-on cultural classes pack real value for curious travelers. The most practical options include Chinese calligraphy sessions and cooking workshops. We love the dumpling-making classes, where you’ll master the tricky art of crafting perfect Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings). The bubble tea workshops are especially fun – you’ll learn proper brewing techniques and take home recipes. Street food tours through historic districts offer excellent crash courses in Taiwanese cuisine, with stops at family-run stalls and local favorites. Traditional cooking classes stand out for their authentic home-style recipes and small group sizes.
Check out these tested-and-approved workshops that consistently earn our highest ratings:
Good To Know
- Hands-on calligraphy workshops taught by experienced instructors, with personalized guidance and all materials included for creating calligraphic pieces.
- Culinary classes, including Xiao Long Bao & Boba Tea Cooking Class and Taiwanese Gourmet Cooking Class, offering hands-on preparation of iconic Taiwanese dishes.
- Taiwanese baking and breakfast cooking classes, featuring oolong tea tasting and hands-on learning of beloved breakfast staples.
- Food tours and market experiences, such as the Morning Taipei Food Tour and Market Tour and Taiwanese Cooking Class, providing in-depth exploration of local cuisine.
- Unique cooking classes in historical locations, like the Dadaocheng Old Town Cooking Class and Taiwanese Food Culture and Cooking Class, offering culture and traditional recipes.
Taipei Calligraphy Workshop (Diy Incl.)
The Taipei Calligraphy Workshop offers a hands-on introduction to the ancient art of Chinese calligraphy. This small-group class, capped at 6 participants, provides an engaging learning experience suitable for beginners and experienced artists alike.
Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, attendees will explore the history and techniques of this revered practice. The workshop includes all necessary materials, allowing participants to create their own calligraphic pieces to take home as a memento.
Attendees will learn major calligraphy principles and get personalized, hands-on instruction throughout the session. The location is conveniently situated near public transportation, though private transportation isn’t included.
With a perfect 4.9 rating from 13 reviews, the Taipei Calligraphy Workshop is a highly recommended culture activity. Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable instructor’s patience and teaching style, as well as the engaging and enjoyable learning environment.
Many express a desire to continue practicing calligraphy after the workshop.
Read our full review: Taipei Calligraphy Workshop (Diy Incl.) Review
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Xiao Long Bao & Boba Tea Cooking Class in Taipei
Situated in the heart of Taipei, the Xiao Long Bao & Boba Tea Cooking Class offers a delectable culinary experience for foodies of all skill levels. Taught by experienced chefs, this 5-star rated class allows participants to learn the art of making the iconic Taiwanese soup dumplings, known as xiao long bao, as well as the beloved bubble milk tea, or boba.
The class covers a comprehensive menu, starting with a seasonal greens salad, followed by the hands-on preparation of the delicate xiao long bao. Participants will then put their skills to the test by crafting their own bubble milk tea.
After the cooking session, guests can savor the fruits of their labor, enjoying the flavors of their homemade creations.
Conveniently located and easily accessible via public transportation, this class offers an immersive cultural experience for those seeking to expand their culinary horizons in Taipei. With a maximum of 8 participants, the class ensures personalized attention and a memorable learning journey.
Read our full review: Xiao Long Bao & Boba Tea Cooking Class in Taipei Review
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Morning Taipei Food Tour and Bubble Tea Class
Enjoy Taipei’s vibrant food culture during this morning tour and bubble tea class. Lasting from 10:00 am, this 4-hour experience takes you on a culinary journey through the city’s bustling streets and local markets.
Savor unique street food and learn to craft your own bubble tea under the guidance of a knowledgeable local.
Explore Da’an District, visiting food stalls and meeting the vendors who bring Taipei’s flavors to life. Discover regional specialties and insider tips from your expert guide.
Then, put your newfound skills to the test as you blend and brew your personalized bubble tea. Bring home the recipes and techniques to recreate these delights.
Limited to just 10 travelers, this intimate tour offers a chance to learn about Taipei’s dynamic food scene.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and easy public transportation access, this experience is perfect for independent travelers seeking an authentic taste of the city.
Read our full review: Morning Taipei Food Tour and Bubble Tea Class Review
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Afternoon Taipei Food Tour and Bubble Tea Class
Travelers on the afternoon Taipei food tour and bubble tea class embark on a culinary exploration of the city’s vibrant streets and historic markets.
Led by local host Wayne, a Taipei native with 14 years in Melbourne, Australia, the tour allows participants to sample unique street food and interact with vendors and shop owners.
The communal bubble tea class teaches guests to make their own refreshing drink, and they’ll take home traditional recipes and new culinary skills.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small group size ensures a personalized experience.
The tour is stroller accessible and located near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to learn about Taipei’s culture, this afternoon tour and class offer a delicious and educational experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Read our full review: Afternoon Taipei Food Tour and Bubble Tea Class Review
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Private Taipei Breakfast Culture and Cooking Class With Lunch Day Tour
The Private Taipei Breakfast Culture and Cooking Class with Lunch Day Tour offers travelers an immersive culinary experience in the heart of Taiwan’s vibrant capital. Priced from $324 per person, this 3-hour private tour includes a licensed guide, air-conditioned transportation, breakfast tastings, and a cooking class followed by a full lunch.
The tour starts with pickups from downtown Taipei hotels or metro stations, with the guide meeting participants at the ground level if the lobby is on an upper floor. After a brief breakfast tasting, guests will enjoy a hands-on cooking class led by a local expert, learning to prepare traditional Taiwanese dishes.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers.
However, it’s important to note that this is a non-refundable tour, and cancellations won’t receive a refund. Participants should also ensure they’ve cash on hand for any additional expenses, as credit cards aren’t widely accepted.
Read our full review: Private Taipei Breakfast Culture and Cooking Class With Lunch Day Tour Review
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Xiao Long Bao, Beef Noodles & Boba Tea Cooking Class in Taipei
This 3-hour Xiao Long Bao, Beef Noodles & Boba Tea Cooking Class in Taipei’s Zhongshan district teaches participants to make these iconic Taiwanese dishes from scratch.
With a 99% recommendation rate from 125 travelers, the class is led by skilled instructors and suitable for all skill levels, accommodating a maximum of 10 participants.
The menu includes a starter of seasonal greens, followed by the main dishes of Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) and Braised Beef Noodle Soup, and concluding with the beloved Bubble Milk Tea for dessert.
Participants will learn traditional cooking techniques and gain insights into Taiwanese culinary culture.
Located near the Zhongshan MRT station, the class is wheelchair accessible and welcomes children aged 7-11 at a discounted rate.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, travelers can confidently book this highly-rated class that has earned a Badge of Excellence.
Read our full review: Xiao Long Bao, Beef Noodles & Boba Tea Cooking Class in Taipei Review
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Taiwanese Gourmet Cooking Class in Taipei
Hosted at the Cookinn 旅人料理教室 in Taipei’s Zhongshan district, the Taiwanese Gourmet Cooking Class offers a hands-on exploration of the island’s celebrated cuisine.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this small-group class focuses on preparing popular Taiwanese dishes and learning their cultural stories.
The class begins at 9:30 am and can accommodate up to 8 participants aged 12 and above, with discounted rates for children 7-11 and free admission for those under 6.
After a short MRT or train ride, students will learn to cook a multi-course feast, including a squid salad, three-cup chicken, mullet roe fried rice, and tofu pudding dessert.
Praised for clear bilingual instruction and an effective teaching style, the class is led by instructor Diana.
Participants consistently highlight the class’s cleanliness, newfound cooking tips, and the satisfying feast that follows the hands-on experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Taiwanese Gourmet Cooking Class is a must-try for foodies visiting Taipei.
Read our full review: Taiwanese Gourmet Cooking Class in Taipei Review
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Taiwanese Baking Class With Oolong Tea Tasting in Taipei
Located at the Cookinn 旅人料理教室 in Taipei’s Zhongshan district, the Taiwanese Baking Class with Oolong Tea Tasting immerses participants in the art of traditional Taiwanese pastry-making.
Over 2.5 hours, students learn to craft pineapple cakes and scallion nougat crackers, two beloved Taiwanese delicacies. The class, limited to 10 participants, also includes an oolong tea service and a to-go box of the baked goods.
The class is conveniently located, with the Zhongshan Station on the MRT Green or Red Line just a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, those arriving by high-speed rail or regular train can reach the class in 6 minutes from Taipei Main Station.
The space is wheelchair accessible, with infant seats and strollers welcome.
At $80 per person, the Taiwanese Baking Class with Oolong Tea Tasting offers an authentic cultural experience. Reviewers praise the patient instructor and unforgettable hands-on learning, making this class a must for those seeking to explore Taiwan’s rich culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Taiwanese Baking Class With Oolong Tea Tasting in Taipei Review
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Taiwanese Breakfast Cooking Class in Taipei
The Taiwanese Breakfast Cooking Class in Taipei offers a hands-on introduction to some of the country’s most beloved morning staples.
Located at Cookinn 旅人料理教室 (中山店 Zhongshan branch), the class runs from 9:30 am and accommodates up to 10 travelers at $80 per person.
Participants will learn to prepare classic dishes like scallion pancakes, Taiwanese egg crepes, and both sweet and savory fresh soy milk.
With a focus on traditional techniques, the class provides a unique cultural experience in the heart of Taipei.
The class is conveniently accessible, located just a 5-minute walk from the Zhongshan MRT station.
Wheelchair and stroller users will appreciate the fully accessible facilities.
With a perfect 5-star rating from previous attendees, this cooking class is an ideal way to take in Taiwan’s vibrant breakfast culture.
Read our full review: Taiwanese Breakfast Cooking Class in Taipei Review
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Taiwanese Food Culture and Cooking Class
Although Taipei is renowned for its vibrant street food scene, visitors can also enjoy Taiwan’s rich culinary heritage through the Taiwanese Food Culture and Cooking Class.
Offering a hands-on experience, the class takes participants on a culinary journey through Taiwanese cuisine, with themed menus showcasing the country’s diverse flavors.
From the “Dumpling Lover Theme” to the “Home Style Stir-fried Theme” and the “Authentic Taiwanese Theme,” the class covers a range of traditional dishes, including fried dumplings, three-cup chicken, and soy sauce-based beef noodle.
Participants will also learn to make colorful bubble tea and hand-crafted boba. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the class ensures an intimate and interactive experience, complete with lunch, coffee or tea, and a fruit platter.
Conveniently located near the Dongmen MRT station, the Taiwanese Food Culture and Cooking Class offers a unique opportunity for travelers to explore the heart of Taiwanese cuisine, earning it a 100% recommendation from past participants.
Read our full review: Taiwanese Food Culture and Cooking Class Review
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Market Tour and Taiwanese Cooking Class in Taipei
For travelers seeking a more immersive culinary experience in Taipei, the Market Tour and Taiwanese Cooking Class provides an opportunity to explore the heart of the city’s vibrant food culture.
Led by an expert chef, this small-group session takes participants on a journey through Dongmen Market to learn about fresh, local ingredients before returning to a professional kitchen to prepare three authentic Taiwanese dishes.
The hands-on cooking lesson covers traditional cooking methods, allowing participants to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s flavors. The varied menu may include specialties like braised pork with rice, Taiwanese-style fried chicken, and prawn omelet with a signature sauce.
Following the cooking session, guests enjoy the fruits of their labor over a communal lunch. With a maximum of 8 participants, the class offers a personalized and engaging learning experience.
Dietary requirements can be accommodated, and hotel pickup and drop-off are available for added convenience.
Read our full review: Market Tour and Taiwanese Cooking Class in Taipei Review
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Dadaocheng, Taipei Old Town Cooking Class and Market Adventure
Nestled within Taipei’s historic Dadaocheng district, the BeMyGuest Cooking Class and Market Adventure immerses participants in the vibrant food culture of old-town Taiwan.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this hands-on experience allows visitors to learn traditional Taiwanese recipes and explore the nearby market.
During the 3-hour class, aspiring chefs can choose from a variety of menus, including Taiwanese risotto, braised beef noodles, and scallion pancakes.
The classes are conducted in English, Mandarin, and a bit of Japanese, with a maximum of 6 travelers per session. Participants receive a unique BeMyGuest apron, a guided tour of the neighborhood, and a provided lunch featuring the dishes they’ve prepared.
The activity is readily accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access, as well as allowance for service animals.
Conveniently located near public transportation, the BeMyGuest Cooking Class and Market Adventure offers a immersive, 5-star culinary experience in the heart of Taipei’s historic Dadaocheng.
Read our full review: Dadaocheng, Taipei Old Town Cooking Class and Market Adventure Review
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Street Food Cooking Class in Taipei : Gua Bao/Lu Rou Fan/Boba Tea
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Taipei can explore the city’s vibrant street food culture through the Street Food Cooking Class.
Offered in a small-group format, the class focuses on teaching participants to prepare classic Taiwanese “xiao chi” (small eats) such as gua bao (braised pork belly in steamed bun), lu rou fan (braised pork rice), and bubble tea.
The class takes place at Cookinn 旅人料理教室, a conveniently located cooking studio in Taipei’s Datong District.
Accessible by public transportation, the studio provides an intimate setting for hands-on instruction and personalized attention from the culinary instructor.
Participants will learn to make these beloved street food items from scratch, culminating in a homemade meal enjoyed together.
With a 5.0 rating from 18 reviews, the class has earned a reputation for its delicious fare and engaging teaching style, making it a must-do activity for foodies visiting Taipei.
The class is priced at $75.00 per person and includes all materials, recipes, and class photos.
Read our full review: Street Food Cooking Class in Taipei : Gua Bao/Lu Rou Fan/Boba Tea Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Classes Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?
Many workshops and classes accommodate those with dietary restrictions, including vegetarians. It’s best to check with the organizers in advance to ensure your specific needs can be met during the activities.
Can I Bring My Own Camera or Is Photography Prohibited During the Classes?
Photography is generally allowed during the classes, but it’s best to check with the organizers beforehand. Most workshops welcome participants to bring their own cameras to capture their experiences, though some may have restrictions on photography. It’s worth inquiring about the policy.
Do the Classes Provide Any Transportation Options to and From the Venues?
The classes generally don’t provide transportation options, but some may offer information on public transit routes or recommendations for getting to and from the venues. It’s best to check with each class or workshop about their specific policies regarding transportation.
Are the Classes Available in Languages Other Than Mandarin Chinese?
Many workshops and classes in Taipei offer instruction in English and other languages besides Mandarin Chinese, catering to the city’s diverse international population. Students should check the language options when registering for specific courses.
Can I Purchase the Recipes or Ingredients Used During the Classes?
Yes, you can typically purchase the recipes or ingredients used during the workshops and classes. Many providers offer take-home kits or the option to buy the supplies needed to recreate the dishes at home.
The Sum Up
Taipei offers a diverse range of workshops and classes that allow visitors to enjoy the city’s rich culinary and cultural heritage. From hands-on calligraphy sessions to in-depth cooking classes, these experiences provide a unique opportunity to learn new skills and gain a deeper appreciation for Taiwanese traditions. Whether you’re a foodie, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about the local culture, Taipei has something to suit every interest and skill level.