Expats usually make at least two trips to this Chinese goods store during their stay in Taiwan - once shortly after they have arrived on the island, to browse the mart's endless display of knick-knacks, and once before they leave, to stock up on souvenirs to take home for friends. Porcelain vases, tea sets, scrolls, jade jewelry and other gifts are crammed into this mega-store. The Handicraft Mart is not exactly the place for bargains - you can find cheaper stuff on the street - but it is government-sponsored, so if the salespeople say the jade is real, you can take their word for it.
