Fanshubo Yang's Sweet Potato Crisps

Review

Yang's Sweet Potato Crisps are one of Taitung's signature souvenirs. The story goes that an old man first sold them from a tricycle cart in the streets, and the recipe has been passed down for more than sixty years. The family later split into two brands: Fanshubo on Chuanguang Road is the Taitung flagship of Yang's Sweet Potato Crisps, while Yang's Family Recipe (Zhenfa Old Shop) is on Datong Road. Both have loyal fans, so know which one you are visiting.

The signature crisps are sweet potato strips fried and then coated in plenty of maltose, crunchy and clearly sweet, with taro crisps and candied sweet potato as well. According to a 2026 roundup, shop prices are NT$140 for a large bag of sweet potato crisps (350 g) and NT$70 for a small bag (175 g); taro crisps are NT$140 large and NT$70 small; candied sweet potato is NT$140 for a large bag (600 g) and NT$70 small. The traditional maltose version has no preservatives and is best within about seven days.

Fans praise the crisp, fragrant texture, fair prices and the sense that this is a must-buy Taitung classic, and the display outside the shop makes a good photo spot. Complaints mention the heavy sugar coating and strong sweetness that sticks to teeth and fingers, and some got clumped, less crunchy batches and feel quality varies. Bloggers comparing brands note that those who like a lighter taste may prefer less sweet competitors.

According to Google it opens from about 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closes on Wednesdays; online orders placed on a Wednesday are confirmed the next day. The shop is on Chuanguang Road, close to Beinan Pork Blood Soup's Taitung shop, so the two fit into one outing. With no preservatives and sensitivity to humidity, finish them quickly and keep opened bags sealed.

Good for travellers wanting a classic Taitung souvenir for family or colleagues. For yourself, start with a small bag to test the taste; for gifts, a large bag plus a bag of taro crisps adds variety. If you find them too sweet, enjoy them with unsweetened tea, a little at a time.