Taichung

Taichung, Taiwan's vibrant cultural and artistic hub, seamlessly blends modernity and tradition, offering a dynamic cityscape with a rich tapestry of attractions, culinary delights, and a thriving arts scene.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Taichung is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (October to December) seasons when the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and enjoying the city's parks, gardens, and attractions.

How to Get There

There are several ways to get to Taichung, Taiwan's central city:

By Air: Taichung has its own international airport, Taichung International Airport (RMQ), located in the nearby city of Taichung. You can fly directly to Taichung from select international destinations or connect through domestic flights from other airports in Taiwan.
By High-Speed Rail (HSR): Taiwan's High-Speed Rail (HSR) connects Taichung with major cities such as Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Tainan. Taichung HSR Station is located in Wuri District, and it's a convenient and efficient way to travel between cities.
By Train: Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) operates regular train services to and from Taichung. The city is well-connected to other major cities and towns in Taiwan, making it easy to reach by train.
By Bus: Taichung has an extensive bus network connecting it to other cities and towns in Taiwan. You can find direct bus services from Taipei, Kaohsiung, Tainan, and other major cities. The main bus terminal in Taichung is Taichung Bus Station, located near the train station.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can reach Taichung by car via Taiwan's well-maintained highways. The city is accessible from various directions, including National Freeway 1 and National Freeway 3.

Once you arrive in Taichung, the city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system, making it convenient to get around and explore the city and its attractions.

Top 20 Attractions in Taichung

Taichung, Taiwan's cultural and artistic city, offers a wide range of attractions that showcase its vibrant energy, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the top attractions to explore in Taichung:

National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts: Discover an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks from both local and international artists at this prestigious art museum.
Rainbow Village: Visit this whimsical and colorful village adorned with vibrant murals, created by a veteran soldier-turned-artist, Mr. Huang, also known as "Rainbow Grandpa."
Fengjia Night Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Taichung's largest night market, offering a wide variety of street food, local snacks, shopping, and entertainment options.
Taichung Park: Take a leisurely stroll through this urban oasis, featuring a picturesque lake, pavilions, gardens, and a beautiful Japanese-style pavilion.
Gaomei Wetlands: Witness stunning sunsets and vast wetland landscapes at this ecological reserve, known for its migratory birds, windmills, and peaceful atmosphere.
Lavender Cottage: Step into a charming French-inspired cottage surrounded by lavender fields, offering a tranquil escape with picturesque scenery, cafes, and boutique shops.
Miyahara: Indulge in delectable pastries and ice cream at this iconic century-old building, formerly a historic ophthalmology clinic, now transformed into a popular dessert destination.
Zhongshe Flower Market: Immerse yourself in a sea of vibrant blooms at this scenic flower market, featuring stunning floral displays, gardens, and photo opportunities.
Carton King Creativity Park: Explore a unique park made entirely of cardboard, showcasing creative installations, sculptures, and a quirky café where even the furniture is made of cardboard.
Taichung Metropolitan Opera House: Marvel at the impressive architecture of this modern opera house, known for its striking design and world-class performances.
National Museum of Natural Science: Dive into the world of science and nature through interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and the unique Life Science Hall.
Guguan Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs of Guguan, known for their therapeutic properties and surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.
Wuling Farm: Escape to this mountainous farm, particularly stunning during cherry blossom and azalea seasons, offering scenic hikes, fresh air, and picturesque landscapes.
Scent Library: Delve into the enchanting world of fragrances at this unique library, where you can explore various scents and learn about the art of perfumery.
CMP Block Museum of Arts: Discover contemporary art installations and exhibitions in this modern art museum, showcasing local and international artists.
Dakeng Scenic Area: Trek through the lush trails of Dakeng, a series of mountains offering panoramic views of Taichung City and an escape into nature.
Yizhong Street: Shop and dine along this bustling street, known for its trendy shops, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere.
Wenxin Forest Park: Enjoy a peaceful retreat in this expansive park, featuring green spaces, ponds, and walking paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Taichung Creative and Cultural Park: Explore this renovated historic site that has been transformed into a creative hub, hosting art exhibitions, workshops, and design-related events.
Taichung Second Market: Dive into the local food culture by visiting the Taichung Second Market, a bustling traditional market filled with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, street food, snacks, and local delicacies. It's a great place to taste authentic Taiwanese flavors and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional market.

Top 10 Activities to do in Taichung

Taichung offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the top activities to do in Taichung:

Cycling: Explore Taichung's bike-friendly streets and dedicated cycling paths, such as the Fengyuan Riverside Bikeway or Houfeng Bikeway, for a leisurely and eco-friendly way to see the city.
Visit Museums and Art Galleries: Discover the city's vibrant art and cultural scene by visiting museums like the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, Taichung Cultural and Creative Industries Park, or galleries showcasing local and international artists.
Shop at Night Markets: Experience the bustling atmosphere and taste a wide variety of local street food at popular night markets like Fengjia Night Market, Yizhong Street Night Market, or Zhonghua Road Night Market.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the scenic beauty surrounding Taichung by embarking on hikes at Dakeng, Toushe Basin, or Xitou Nature Education Area, where you can enjoy lush greenery, fresh air, and stunning views.
Visit Temples and Shrines: Immerse yourself in Taiwanese culture by visiting temples and shrines such as Rainbow Village Temple, Paochueh Temple, or Gaomei Wetlands Temple, and experience spiritual rituals.
Relax at Hot Springs: Take a rejuvenating break by visiting hot springs near Taichung, such as Guguan Hot Springs or Dongshi Hot Springs, and indulge in a therapeutic soak in mineral-rich waters.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Delight in Taichung's diverse culinary scene by sampling local specialties, such as bubble tea, sun cakes, street snacks, shaved ice desserts, or traditional Hakka dishes.
Attend Festivals and Events: Check the calendar for festivals and events happening in Taichung, such as the Taichung International Flower Festival, Lantern Festival, or music concerts, to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.
Explore Unique Cafés: Taichung is known for its quirky and themed cafés, from cat cafés to manga-themed cafés and minimalist design spaces. Spend an afternoon enjoying a cup of coffee or tea in these unique settings.
Visit Taichung's Parks and Gardens: Relax in Taichung's beautiful parks and gardens, such as Taichung Park, Calligraphy Greenway, or Lavender Forest, where you can take leisurely walks, have picnics, or enjoy outdoor activities.

Hiking woman sit on the rock over the peak in east peak of Hehuanshan in Taichung, Taiwan

Best Shopping

Taichung offers a vibrant shopping scene with a wide range of shopping options, from modern shopping malls to bustling street markets. Here's a glimpse into the shopping experiences in Taichung:

Shopping Malls: Explore the city's modern shopping malls, including Top City Taichung, Tiger City, and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Department Store. These malls feature a wide variety of local and international brands, fashion boutiques, electronics, home goods, and more.
Fengjia Night Market: Taichung is renowned for its night markets, and Fengjia Night Market is the largest and most popular in the city. Here, you can shop for trendy clothing, accessories, shoes, and enjoy a vast array of delicious street food.
Yizhong Street: Located near National Chung Hsing University, Yizhong Street is a vibrant area with shops, boutiques, and small retail stores. It's a popular spot for fashion items, accessories, and affordable finds.
Mitsui Outlet Park: Situated in Taichung's outskirts, Mitsui Outlet Park is a large outlet mall with discounted prices on various international and local brands, offering a great shopping experience for bargain hunters.
Taichung Second Market: Dive into the local culture by visiting the Taichung Second Market, where you can find fresh produce, seafood, meats, snacks, and a wide variety of local ingredients to bring back as souvenirs or for cooking.
Sogo Department Store: Sogo is a well-known department store in Taiwan, offering a range of high-end and luxury brands, cosmetics, accessories, and gourmet food products.
Vintage and Retro Stores: Taichung is also home to numerous vintage and retro shops, particularly in the Yizhong Street area, where you can find unique clothing, accessories, and retro collectibles.
Artistic and Creative Markets: Explore the city's artistic and creative markets, such as the Taichung Creative and Cultural Park, where you can find handmade crafts, design products, art pieces, and artisanal goods.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Taichung offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of entertainment options to suit different preferences. Here's a glimpse into the nightlife and entertainment in Taichung:

Bars and Nightclubs: Taichung has a range of bars and nightclubs where you can enjoy a night out. Explore areas like the Calligraphy Greenway or Fengjia Night Market for a selection of trendy bars, cocktail lounges, and clubs with live music or DJ performances.
Live Music Venues: Taichung is home to several live music venues where you can catch local bands, solo artists, or even international acts. Venues like Legacy Taichung, Sound Live House, and Uptown Jazz Restaurant offer diverse music genres and a lively atmosphere.
Cinemas and Theaters: Enjoy a movie night or catch a theater performance at one of Taichung's cinemas or theaters. Popular options include the Tiger City Cinema or the National Taichung Theater, known for its modern architecture and world-class performances.
Night Markets: Taichung's night markets, such as Fengjia Night Market and Yizhong Street Night Market, come alive in the evenings. Explore the bustling atmosphere, sample a wide array of street food, shop for trendy clothing and accessories, and enjoy the vibrant ambiance.
Karaoke: Sing your heart out at one of the many karaoke establishments scattered throughout the city. Private karaoke rooms equipped with song selections and refreshments provide an entertaining way to spend the evening with friends.
Taichung Metropolitan Opera House: Catch a captivating performance at the Taichung Metropolitan Opera House, known for its impressive architecture and world-class productions spanning opera, ballet, and concerts.
Roof-Top Bars: Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline while sipping cocktails at one of Taichung's roof-top bars. These elevated venues provide a sophisticated and stylish atmosphere to unwind and enjoy the cityscape.
Late-Night Shopping: Some shopping malls, particularly the Fengjia and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi malls, have extended operating hours, allowing you to indulge in late-night shopping or explore the variety of food and entertainment options they offer.

Local Cuisine

Taichung is known for its diverse and delectable local cuisine, offering a mix of traditional Taiwanese flavors and unique regional specialties. Here are some highlights of the local cuisine in Taichung:

Bubble Tea: Taichung is considered the birthplace of bubble tea. Enjoy this popular Taiwanese beverage with various flavors and combinations, including the classic milk tea with tapioca pearls or creative variations like fruit teas and cheese teas.
Sun Cakes: A famous Taichung specialty, Sun Cakes are flaky pastries filled with sweet malt sugar or other fillings like red bean or taro. They make for delightful snacks or gifts.
Taiwanese Night Market Snacks: Taichung's night markets, such as Fengjia Night Market and Yizhong Street Night Market, offer a plethora of mouthwatering street food options. Sample local snacks like stinky tofu, grilled squid, oyster omelette, fried chicken cutlets, and more.
Dongshan Duck: Taichung is renowned for its Dongshan Duck, a breed of duck known for its tender and flavorful meat. It is often roasted or braised and served with accompanying sauces and condiments.
Fried Radish Cake (Luobo Gao): A popular breakfast or snack option, Luobo Gao is a savory radish cake made from shredded radishes and rice flour, pan-fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Hakka Cuisine: Taichung has a significant Hakka population, offering a chance to savor authentic Hakka dishes. Try specialties like Lei Cha (pounded tea) rice, Hakka-style braised pork belly, or Yam Balls.
Fengyuan Tofu: Fengyuan District in Taichung is famous for its tofu production. Taste the local Fengyuan tofu, known for its silky texture and delicate flavor, either in hot pot dishes or served as a standalone tofu pudding.
Taiwanese Hot Pot: Warm yourself with a flavorful Taiwanese hot pot experience. Choose from a variety of broths, fresh meats, seafood, and vegetables to cook at your table and enjoy a communal dining experience.

Accommodations

When staying in Taichung, there are several areas that offer convenient access to attractions, shopping, dining, and transportation. Here are some of the best areas to consider for accommodation:

Central District: Located in the heart of the city, the Central District is a bustling area with a wide range of hotels, from luxury to budget options. It offers easy access to shopping areas like Zhonghua Road, as well as cultural sites like the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts.
Xitun District: Xitun District is known for its vibrant atmosphere and is home to popular attractions like Fengjia Night Market, the largest night market in Taichung. There are numerous accommodation options, from guesthouses to boutique hotels, catering to different budgets.
West District: West District is a charming area with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and cafes. It's a great choice if you prefer a more laid-back and artistic vibe. The area is also close to the Taichung Train Station, making it convenient for transportation.
Beitun District: Located to the north of Taichung, Beitun District offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. It's a good option if you prefer a quieter stay while still having access to local amenities and transportation links.
Taichung Harbor District: Situated near the Taichung Port, this district offers a unique waterfront experience. It features modern developments, including shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It's a good choice if you enjoy a more contemporary urban setting.

Itinerary

Cultural Delights and Urban Charm: A 2-Day Journey through Taichung

Day 1: Exploring Heritage and Creativity

Start your day with a visit to the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, immersing yourself in the vibrant world of contemporary and modern art.
Wander through the quaint streets of the West District, admiring the unique architecture, boutique shops, and charming cafes.
Discover the cultural and historical significance of Taichung at the National Taichung Theater, renowned for its innovative design and world-class performances.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local eateries, savoring traditional Taiwanese flavors or trying inventive fusion cuisine.
Visit the Rainbow Village, a colorful artistic community, and be captivated by the whimsical murals and lively atmosphere.
Indulge in some retail therapy at the Fengjia Night Market, strolling through the bustling stalls, tasting mouthwatering street food, and picking up trendy fashion items.
In the evening, unwind at a rooftop bar or café, sipping cocktails and enjoying panoramic views of the cityscape.

Day 2: Nature, Culture, and Culinary Delights

Start your day with a visit to Taichung Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk, rent a paddleboat, or simply relax amidst the picturesque scenery.
Explore the flavors of Taichung by visiting the Taichung Second Market, where you can sample local snacks, fresh produce, and culinary delights.
Immerse yourself in the history and heritage of Taiwan at the 921 Earthquake Museum of Taiwan, learning about the impact of the devastating earthquake that struck the region in 1999.
Enjoy a scenic drive to the Gaomei Wetlands, a natural reserve known for its stunning sunsets, vast wetland landscapes, and the chance to observe migratory birds.
Head to the Calligraphy Greenway, a vibrant cultural and arts district, to explore the boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops that showcase local creativity.
For dinner, savor a delightful Hakka meal, experiencing the unique flavors and dishes of this traditional cuisine.
Wrap up your Taichung journey with a leisurely stroll along the Jingming 1st Street, lined with trendy cafes, shops, and the opportunity to try gourmet desserts or bubble tea.