Chiayi

Best Shopping

Chiayi offers several unique shopping experiences, where you can buy anything from local handicrafts and souvenirs to high-quality tea and fashionable items. Here are some popular shopping spots in Chiayi:

• Wenhua Road Night Market: This is a must-visit for any shopaholic. Along with a variety of delicious street foods, you can find clothing, accessories, toys, and local souvenirs.

• GuangHua Night Market: Similar to Wenhua Road Night Market, GuangHua is another popular night market in Chiayi, with many shopping options for visitors.

• Hinoki Village: This historic village is home to several boutiques selling unique local products, from handicrafts to specialty foods. It's a great place to buy souvenirs that capture the spirit of Chiayi.

• Carrefour Chiayi Store: If you're looking for a large supermarket to buy a variety of items, including clothing, electronics, groceries, and household items, the Carrefour in Chiayi is a good choice.

• Local Tea Shops: Chiayi is located near some of Taiwan's best tea-growing regions, so don't miss the chance to buy high-quality Alishan tea. There are several tea shops in Chiayi where you can purchase a variety of local teas.

• Traditional Markets: Places like Central Market (Jhongshan Road Market) are excellent to browse a wide array of local products, including fresh produce, seafood, traditional snacks, and everyday items.

Remember that bargaining is not common in Taiwan except in some night markets, so prices are usually fixed.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Chiayi may not be as bustling as Taipei when it comes to nightlife, but it still offers some unique and enjoyable evening entertainment options:

• Night Markets: Chiayi's night markets, like Wenhua Road Night Market and GuangHua Night Market, come alive in the evening. You can enjoy a variety of street foods, shop for clothing and accessories, and experience the lively atmosphere.

• Bars and Cafes: There are a number of bars, teahouses, and cafes throughout Chiayi where you can relax and enjoy a drink. Some popular spots include Budaoweng Craft Beer and L'OCCITANE Cafe Chiayi.

• Theater Performances: Chiayi Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year.

• Alishan Night Tour: If you're staying overnight in Alishan, consider taking a guided night tour to explore the forest's nocturnal sights and sounds.

• Cinemas: For movie lovers, there are several cinemas in Chiayi, including the Showtime Cinema Chiayi and the Ambassador Theatre, where you can catch the latest films.

• Hot Springs: Some hotels and resorts near Alishan offer hot springs that can be enjoyed in the evening, providing a relaxing way to end your day.

• Cultural Events: Depending on when you visit, you may be able to catch local festivals or cultural events happening in the evening.

Local Cuisine

Chiayi is home to a variety of delicious local dishes, with a culinary culture deeply influenced by its history and the abundant local ingredients. Here are some must-try local foods:

• Chiayi Turkey Rice: This is probably the most famous dish in Chiayi. It's a simple yet satisfying dish made of tender, flavorful slices of turkey served over rice, often with a light soy-based sauce. You can find this dish at many local eateries and night markets.

• Fish Balls: Chiayi is known for its fish balls, which are made from a paste of fish and starch. They're often served in a savory broth with noodles or rice. The Chuchi Fish Ball Museum is a great place to learn more about this local delicacy.

• Fenqihu Bento: Originally designed for travelers on the Alishan Forest Railway, these boxed meals typically include rice, pickles, and a variety of side dishes such as braised pork, bamboo shoots, and boiled eggs.

• Aiyu Jelly: This is a popular dessert in Chiayi. Made from the seeds of a local fig species, the jelly is served chilled, often with lemon and honey, making it a refreshing treat, especially in the warmer months.

• Alishan Tea: The high-altitude tea plantations around Alishan produce some of Taiwan's finest teas. Don't miss the chance to try Alishan Oolong, a fragrant tea with a unique taste.

• Mochi: Mochi is a type of glutinous rice cake, and it's particularly popular in Chiayi. It's often filled with sweet or savory fillings and makes a great snack or dessert.

• Bamboo Rice: Another specialty you can find in the mountainous areas around Chiayi, this dish is made by cooking rice inside a bamboo tube, giving it a distinct flavor.

Accommodations

Choosing the best area to stay in Chiayi depends on what you plan to do during your visit. Here are some areas that you might consider:

• Chiayi City Center: This is a convenient location with easy access to public transportation, including trains and buses. It's also near various attractions such as the Wenhua Road Night Market, Chiayi Park, and the Chiayi City Historical Relic Museum. There are plenty of hotels, guest houses, and B&Bs in this area to fit different budgets.

• East District: This is a vibrant area with a good mix of shopping, dining, and nightlife options. It's also close to several notable attractions like the Hinoki Village. Accommodations range from budget guest houses to more luxurious hotels.

• West District: This area is home to Chiayi's main railway station, making it a convenient area to stay if you plan on taking day trips to surrounding areas such as Alishan. The district also boasts various shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels.

• Alishan: If you plan on spending a lot of time exploring the Alishan National Scenic Area, you might consider staying in one of the hotels or guesthouses in the mountains. This allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the area and catch the stunning sunrise without having to worry about transportation times.

Itinerary

Charming Chiayi: A 3-Day Adventure in the Heart of Taiwan

Day 1: Dive into Chiayi City's History and Culture

• Morning: Begin your day with a visit to the Chiayi City Historical Relic Museum to delve into the local history and culture. Then head to Hinoki Village to admire the traditional Japanese-style architecture.

• Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Chiayi Park, and don't forget to climb the Sun Shooting Tower (Chiayi Tower) for panoramic city views. Later, visit the Merciful Cloud Temple (Ci Yun Temple) to soak in some tranquility.

• Evening: Experience the vibrant Wenhua Road Night Market, savoring local street food like Chiayi Turkey Rice and trying your hand at shopping for unique trinkets and clothing.

Day 2: Explore the Natural Beauty of Alishan

• Morning: Depart early to the Alishan National Scenic Area. Don't miss the famous Alishan sunrise if you can make it. Later, enjoy the enchanting forests through a leisurely walk or a ride on the historic Alishan Forest Railway.

• Afternoon: Continue exploring Alishan. Consider visiting the Shouzhen Temple or hiking to spots like the Big Tree Plank Trail or Sister Lakes.

• Evening: Head back to Chiayi City. For dinner, explore the diverse offerings at GuangHua Night Market, another haven for food lovers.

Day 3: Discovering Local Flavors and Relaxation

• Morning: Visit the Chuchi Fish Ball Museum to learn about (and taste) the famous local specialty. Afterward, consider taking a stroll or a bike ride around Lantan Lake.

• Afternoon: Dedicate your afternoon to shopping. Visit the Hinoki Village for local products or the Carrefour Chiayi Store for a wider variety of items.

• Evening: End your trip with a relaxing visit to a local hot springs resort or unwind in a charming cafe. Alternatively, check out a performance at the Chiayi Performing Arts Center if available.