Taiwan, Kinmen & Little Kinmen
Taiwan
Asia
Click to enlarge
MARKER MAP
Click on the icons to see photos
.
Jobs Board
Avenir Light is a clean and stylish font favored by designers. It's easy on the eyes and a great go-to font for titles, paragraphs & more.
Island Info
.jpg)
Flights
Local Time +
Insurance
Book Flights
Get Travel Insurance
Book Hotels
Book Rental Car
Book Tours & Restaurants
International Drivers Licence
Passport & Visas
Get e-sims
Tours
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
.
ITINERARY
Taipei 5N +1N
Wulei 1N
Sun Moon Lake - Ita Thao Village 4N + 1N
Dongpu 1N
Taichung City 3N +1N
Guguan Hot Springs 1N
Kinmen Island - Jicheng 5N
= 23N
ISLANDS
Taiwan - Kinmen - Little Kinmen
FAMOUS
The Grand Hotel
Sun Moon Lake
Kinmen Knives
Din Tai Fung
Bubble Tea
HIGHLIGHTS
Taipei's Night Markets
More Old Streets than you can shake a stick at
Curdled Soy Milk
Forest Bathing
Wulai Hot Springs
Maokong Tea Houses
Kinmen's Military Sites
Cycling the Xiangshan Bike Trail - Ranked among the world's most beautiful cycling routes
VISA
Citizens of more than 62 countries and territories can enter Taiwan visa-free for 14, 30 or 90 days as of June 2024. Check here to see your status.
As with many countries now you will need to fill in an online digital arrival card within 72 hours of arrival known as TWAC.
BUDGET
Taiwan is a moderately priced destination. It is significantly cheaper than Japan, Hong Kong, or Singapore, but more expensive than Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam or Thailand.
Accommodation - is reasonable and you can get a ** or *** hotel for a simoilar price to many countries in Asia.
Food - can be great value, especially for street food and night markets.
Transport - is very efficient, affordable and comfortable.
POPULATIONS
Taiwan - 23.36 million
Kinmen - 1444,000
Little Kinmen - 2,500
AKA
Taiwan - Formosa / Yizhou / Liuqiu / Dongkun / Chinese Taipei
Kinmen - Quemoy / Wuzhou / Jīnmén / Golden Gate
Little Kinmen - Lieyu / Lesser Kinmen / Little K
ABOUT
Fly into Taipei - take the train and bus down to Wulai Sunday morning and stay the night - back to Taipei late Monday afternoon - take the fast train and bus to Sun Moon Lake - bus back to Taichung City - fly to Kinmen - fly back to Taipei to depart.
WHEN
The Four Main Tourist Seasons
1. Spring (March – May) The Flower Peak
This is arguably the best time for sightseeing. The weather is pleasantly warm (approx. 18°C – 26°C) before the intense summer humidity hits.
Pros - Cherry blossoms in March, perfect for hiking in Alishan or Taroko Gorge.
Cons - Late May brings the Plum Rain season (Meiyu), which can mean persistent drizzly days.
2. Autumn (October – November) The Golden Window
Many locals and expats consider this the best season. The summer rains have stopped, and the air is crisp and dry.
Pros - Lowest rainfall of the year, stable weather for cycling and outdoor adventures.
Cons - October is still technically the tail-end of typhoon season, though large storms are rarer then.
3. Winter (December – February) Hot Spring Season
Winter in Taiwan is mild compared to Japan or Korea, but it can feel damp-cold in the north.
North (Taipei) - Often grey and drizzly, with temperatures around 13°C – 18°C.
South (Kaohsiung) - Frequently sunny and dry, feeling like a pleasant spring day (20°C – 24°C).
Note during the Lunar New Year, Taiwan essentially shuts down for a week. Travel during this time is only recommended if you are visiting family or want to experience specific temple festivals.
4. Summer (June – September) The Tropical Challenge
Taiwanese summers are notoriously hot and humid, with temperatures frequently exceeding 33°C.
Pros - Best time for the offshore islands (Penghu, Green Island) and beaches like Kenting.
Cons - It is Typhoon Season. A major storm can ground flights and close trains for 1–2 days. Afternoon thunderstorms are almost a daily occurrence.
AIRPORTS
Taipei-Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) has direct flights to 109 destinations in 29 countries. You could combine this trip with Okinawa and Tokashiki or you could catch the ferry to Xiamen and make your way down the coast to Hong Kong.
Taichung Ching Chuan Kang Airport (RMQ) has 4 domestic flights , one of which is to Kinmen Island. They also have international flights to Vietnam, China, South Korea and Japan.
Kinmen Airport (KNH) has 6 domestic flights to locations around Taiwan.
TAIPEI 5N + 1N
Taipei is the political, economic, educational, and cultural center of Taiwan. Located in the Taipei Basin in Northern Taiwan, the city is a vibrant, modern metropolis known for its exceptional public transportation, high-tech industry, diverse culinary scene (especially its famous night markets), and a unique blend of Chinese heritage, Japanese colonial influence, and modern global culture.
Transport
Travel to the centre of town is easy these days with a MRT line connecting the two.
Follow the overhead signs for Airport MRT
Terminal 1: The station entrance is on the B1 level (near the food court).
Terminal 2: The station entrance is on the B2 level (also near the food court).
Buy a purple circular token from the vending machines or at the counter. (Note: The machines usually only take cash).
**EasyCard / iPASS - You can buy or top up these reloadable smartcards at airport convenience stores or the MRT service counters. This is highly recommended if you plan to use any other public transport in Taiwan.
There are two types of trains that use the same platform. Check the overhead screens or the color of the train.
Express Train (Purple) Fastest. It takes about 35 – 38 minutes and only makes a few stops. It has comfortable, forward-facing seats and large luggage racks.
Commuter Train (Blue) Stops at every station and takes about 50 minutes. It has side-facing seats and less luggage space.
Trains run roughly from 6 am to 11.30 pm. Frequency is about every 15 minutes for each service (meaning a train arrives roughly every 7.5 minutes).
History
The 17th century saw Taiwan become a strategic colonial prize in East Asia
Dutch Rule (1624 - 1662) - The Dutch East India Company (VOC) established its base in the south at Fort Zeelandia (modern Tainan). Their primary goal was commerce, leveraging the island's strategic location and encouraging large-scale migration of Han Chinese laborers from Fujian to develop rice and sugar plantations.
Spanish Rivalry (1626 - 1642) - Fearing a threat to their colony in the Philippines, the Spanish established a presence in Northern Taiwan, near modern-day Keelung and Tamsui (near Taipei). However, they were eventually driven out by the more powerful Dutch forces in 1642.
The Kingdom of Tungning (Chinese Rule, 1662 - 1683) - The Dutch were in turn ousted by Zheng Chenggong (Koxinga), a loyalist of the fallen Ming Dynasty, who established the first predominantly Han Chinese regime on the island. After his death, the island was formally annexed by the Qing Dynasty (the final imperial rule of China) in 1683. It remained a periphery of the Chinese Empire until 1885, when it was formally declared a Chinese province, with Taipei eventually designated as the capital.
The Japanese Colonial Era (1895–1945) - Following defeat in the First Sino-Japanese War, the Qing Dynasty ceded Taiwan to Japan in 1895 via the Treaty of Shimonoseki, beginning a crucial 50-year period of Japanese rule. The Japanese administration made Taihoku (Taipei) the capital, investing heavily in infrastructure, modern education, and sanitation.
Chiang Kai-shek and the US (1945–1950) - Japan's surrender at the end of World War II in 1945 saw Taiwan returned to the Republic of China (ROC), led by the Nationalist Party (Kuomintang, or KMT) under Chiang Kai-shek. The transition was rocky. Disillusionment with the ROC administration’s corruption and mismanagement led to the 2-28 Incident in February 1947, a violent anti-government uprising brutally suppressed by the KMT, which killed thousands of Taiwanese elites and civilians.
The Great Retreat (1949) - The critical moment came in late 1949. Having lost the Chinese Civil War to Mao Zedong's Communists on the mainland, Chiang Kai-shek's shattered government, military, and around two million followers retreated to Taipei, declaring it the temporary capital of the ROC. They brought with them China's gold reserves and the vast collection of artifacts that now form the National Palace Museum. The National Palace Museum holds a colossal collection of nearly 700,000 pieces of Chinese imperial artifacts and artwork. Including the priceless star attractions - the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat Shaped Stone. This collection was evacuated from the Forbidden City in Beijing to prevent it from falling into the hands of the Japanese and later, the CCP and ultimately relocated to Taipei.
The US Intervention (1950) - For a brief period, the US considered the ROC lost, following the Communist victory on the mainland and the successful Communist invasion of Hainan Island in May 1950. The US did not intervene to prevent the loss of Hainan, viewing it as an internal affair and a lost cause. However, everything changed a month later with the start of the Korean War (June 1950). President Truman immediately ordered the Seventh Fleet into the Taiwan Strait, establishing a defensive barrier. This act essentially protected the KMT on Taiwan from imminent invasion and served as an explicit threat to the People's Republic of China (PRC), saving Chiang Kai-shek’s government from collapse and solidifying Taipei's place as the seat of the non-Communist Chinese state.
Getting Around
The MRT is widely considered one of the easiest and cleanest transit experiences in the world. The system is color-coded and signage is in both Chinese and English making it very simple to navigate.
While you can buy single-journey purple tokens at machines, almost everyone uses an EasyCard.
After an initial purchase price you can top it up at any station machine or convenience store (7-Eleven, FamilyMart).
It works on the MRT, all city buses, the Maokong Gondola and even for buying snacks at convenience stores.
You simply tap the card on the sensor at the gates when entering and exiting.
The network is built around five main color-coded lines. Most tourist attractions are right next to a station:
Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi) Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and the Shilin Night Market (Jiantan Station).
Blue Line (Bannan) Ximending (Ximen Station), Longshan Temple, and the main shopping district (Zhongxiao Fuxing).
Green Line (Songshan-Xindian) High-end shopping and the Raohe Night Market (Songshan Station).
Orange Line (Zhonghe-Xinlu) Great for local food and the famous Din Tai Fung original location (Dongmen Station).
Brown Line (Wenhu) An elevated line heading to the Taipei Zoo and Maokong Gondola.
Trains run from 6:00 AM to midnight. During the day, you rarely wait more than 3 to 5 minutes for a train.
Important Etiquette - The Golden Rules
Taipei takes its MRT rules seriously to keep the system clean and efficient
Do not eat, drink (even water), or chew gum once you pass the yellow line at the gates. Fines are strictly enforced.
The dark blue seats are for the elderly, pregnant, or injured. Even if the train is packed, locals often leave them empty out of respect.
Escalators - Stand on the right, walk on the left.
Queueing - There are clear white lines on the platform floor. Locals queue neatly behind them, allowing passengers to exit the train first before boarding.
YouBike - e-bikes are available - also in Taichung
Taipei has one of the world's most successful and user-friendly public bicycle sharing systems. You can rent and return bikes at thousands of stations across the city using an EasyCard. More Information.
As of 01/01/26 you will also need to enrol in the governments free injury insurance cover.
Download the YouBike app, register as a "single use" renter with a credit card (or link an EasyCard if you get one), and use your eSIM for data to scan QR codes and manage rentals. You might need a local number for full membership, but the app handles single rentals easily.
Beware of fake apps - this is what it should look like -
Payment - A credit card (Visa, Mastercard, JCB) for deposits and single rentals, or an EasyCard/iPASS.
Phone Number (for Membership) - A local number is needed for full membership, but single rentals work with just a credit card and email.
Open the YouBike app and find the single use or one-time rental option (often at the bottom of the screen).
Register with your email and credit card details; a temporary deposit is held.
Find a Bike - Use the app or Google Maps to find nearby YouBike stations. A lightening bolt will indicate an e-bike at the station and a green dot 🟢indicates regular bikes. If you tap on the station marker it will tell you how many e-bikes are there as well as other information.
Rent a Bike - At the station, tap the green Rent via IC Card button on the kiosk, then scan the QR code on the bike using the YouBike app.
Pull the bike out of the dock when prompted.
Return a Bike - Slide the bike into any empty dock until the LED light flashes blue.
Tap your EasyCard (if linked) or follow app instructions to confirm the return and check the fare.
Best Places to Stay - All close to Taipei Main Station MAP
*Stay at the hotel until Saturday night - on Sunday head down to Wulai and come back to Taipei late Monday afternoon for the rest of your stay - this will ensure you avoid the crowds and the waiting on all of your Taipei adventures. Leave your main pack in Taipei - all the hotels have luggage storage.
苓旅-站前 Lin Inn TMS ** 7.9 - Pay on Arrival
Excellent location next to exit Z6 and close to the market and bus station, car hire, 24 hour desk, business centre, gift shop, luggage storage
White Space Design Hotel ** 8.1 - Pay on Arrival - Children 7+
Excellent location close to the Main Station, lots of eating choices and next to a shopping mall, tour desk, luggage storage
Ximen Relite Hotel *** 7.1 - Pay on Arrival - look for 50% deal
Great location close to the station and shops, 24 hour desk, tour desk, may include breakfast, desk, outdoor furniture, luggage storage.
Best Things to See & Do in Taipei - Avoid Weekends
Try to do everything on a weekday to avoid crowds and long waiting lines. Just check that they are open. Go to Wulai on a Sunday / Monday overnighter. And when you are looking for something to do on Saturday, here it is.
Dihua Street - Taipei's Oldest Street - Saturday
Is Taipei's oldest and most atmospheric commercial street. It is a place where 19th-century trade culture meets modern creative gentrification. you could walk here from the hotel.
The History
Dihua Street dates back to the 1850s. After a clan fight in nearby Wanhua, merchants moved here and transformed the area into a massive trading port for tea, Chinese medicine, silk, and dried goods.
The Golden Age - By the late 19th century, it was the wealthiest part of Taipei.
You’ll see a fascinating blend of Fujianese-style (red brick), Baroque (elaborate ornate facades), and Japanese Modernism. The buildings are long and deep - the front was for business, and the back was for family life.
What to See
Taipei Xiahai City God Temple - Famous for the Old Man under the Moon (God of Matchmaking). You'll see thousands of young people praying for love here.
Yongle Fabric Market - A massive multi-story building dedicated entirely to textiles and tailoring.
Ten Consecutive Buildings - Located at the northern end, these are 10 beautifully restored red-brick shophouses that are incredibly photogenic.
Traditional Wholesale Shops - Even today, the street is dominated by massive sacks of dried scallops, mushrooms, and exotic herbs. The smell is iconic—spiced, herbal and salty.
A Great Place for Lunch
For a local experience, head to the area around Dadaocheng Cisheng Temple.
Local vendors set up stalls under giant banyan trees in front of the temple. You order your food and eat at small tables in the courtyard.
Must-Order - Cabbage Rice and Pork Rib Soup.
OR
Rice & Shine
Is a beautiful restaurant in a restored granary serving traditional Taiwanese set meals (pork belly, fish, etc) for a fair price.
Really Old Cafes & Tea Houses MAP
Located on the 2nd floor of the Watsons Building (the first pharmacy in Taiwan). It feels like an old-world library and specializes in Taiwanese black tea.
South Street Delight Tea House
Hidden inside a heritage building (ArtYard), this tea house feels like stepping back into the 1920s with dark wood and velvet seating.
Dihua Halfday Tea House
A serene, minimalist escape tucked away in a historic courtyard.
Unique & Unusual
Ama Museum
A moving memorial dedicated to the comfort women of WWII, housed in a historic building. It's a 20 minute walk each way from the book shop.
Kuo's Astral Bookshop
A stunning 4-story bookstore where the stairs are designed to look like a stack of novels. It feels like a Harry Potte library.
Lee Lin-Chiu Memorial
A speaker in Dadaocheng Park plays the compositions of Lee Lin-Chiu (a famous songwriter) for 15 minutes every hour - it's a very nostalgic, hidden touch.
Sumikko Gurashi 7-Eleven
For something completely unusual, there is a fully themed character 7-Eleven right in the heart of this historic district.
Just as you enter Dihua Street from the south, look for the Dadaocheng Visitor Center. It’s in a beautiful historic building and offers a free vintage clothing experience where you can rent a traditional Qipao or Cheongsam to wear while you walk the street (though you usually need to book this in advance).
1) Start your journey at the Taipei Xia Hai City God Temple
2) ASW TEA HOUSE -
Specializes in single-origin Taiwanese black and oolong teas served in elegant teapots.
Features tall windows that look directly over the bustling intersection of Dihua Street.
OR
Dihua Halfday Tea House
If you prefer a more hidden, zen-like experience, continue further north to Dihua Halfday Tea House. It is housed in a beautifully restored courtyard building.
Known for its minimalist, tranquil design and high-quality tea sets paired with traditional pastries.
Provides a quiet escape from the heat and noise of the main market street.
Offers a nostalgic 1920s vibe with vintage furnishings and a wide selection of Taiwanese tea and snacks.
** From here it's only a 5 minute walk to the Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market which opens at 4 pm on weekdays and noon on the weekend. Get here in plenty of time for the sun set, stick around for dinner, drinks and some live music. Best on a Friday or Saturday night.
Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park - Mon, Wed - Fri
Spend the day at the Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park - go to the Tourist information centre, there are a lot of things to see and do here. (Not on Tuesdays) Afterwards head to Daxi Old Street for some of Taiwan's most famous dried tofu. If you're not a tofu fan you can also get authentic Hakka cuisine. It shuts down pretty early on weekdays so get here a few hours before sunset at least.
The most straightforward way to reach the park using public transport is to travel via Taoyuan or Zhongli.
Option 1 - Train + Bus (via Taoyuan Station). Take a local train (TRA) from Taipei Main Station to Taoyuan Station. From there, head to the Taoyuan Bus Terminal (near the station's back exit) and board the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (501 Daxi Expressway Route) or bus 5096 toward Daxi. Once at Daxi Terminal, transfer to a bus heading toward Fuxing or Cihu (e.g., 5090 or 5104).
Expect the total journey to take between 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Cih-hu Memorial Statue Park MAP
This unique park is the final resting place of Chiang Kai-shek. After many of his statues were removed from public places across Taiwan, they were relocated here. The park now serves as a surreal, open-air gallery displaying approximately 200 statues in various shapes and sizes.
Changing of the Guard - The adjacent Cihu Mausoleum is a key attraction where visitors can witness the elaborate Changing of the Guard Ceremony performed by the military police.
It takes place hourly, on the hour, from 9 am to 5 pm daily, except for Tuesdays when the mausoleum is typically closed.
The ceremony takes place in front of the mausoleum. It may be cancelled when it rains.
The interior of the mausoleum has been closed to the public since 2018 due to vandalism, but the park grounds and the changing of the guard ceremony are still major attractions.
The mausoleum and the ceremony are closed on Tuesdays.
One kilometer away is the Daxi Mausoleum where Chang's son Chiang Ching-kuo is interred. The site was originally built in 1966 as the Touliao Guesthouse and later served as a presidential archive for the Chiang family.
After Chiang Ching-kuo’s death in 1988, the building was converted into his mausoleum. Unlike the more grandiose memorials found in Taipei, this location is noted for its relative simplicity and understated design, which many historians believe reflected the former president’s more approachable public persona.
While smaller than the nearby Cihu complex, the Daxi Mausoleum offers a more intimate look at the historical figures of the era.
The Mourning Hall - The central part of the building houses the black marble sarcophagus. The interior is famously sparse, containing only a few simple pieces of furniture and a portrait of the late president.
The Courtyard Gardens - The mausoleum is set within a traditional "Siheyuan" (quadrangle) courtyard. The gardens are meticulously maintained with plum trees and dragon junipers, creating a quiet and elegant atmosphere.
Chiang Ching-kuo Memorial Hall - This nearby exhibition space contains personal belongings, historical documents, and photographs that detail his political life and his role in lifting martial law in Taiwan.
The park is most famous for its vast collection of bronze statues, but there are several other activities to enjoy during your visit.
Sculpture Trails - Wander through a collection of nearly 300 statues of Chiang Kai-shek donated from across Taiwan. You can see him in various artistic representations, including standing, sitting, and equestrian poses.
Look for the park's largest and most famous statue, titled Scars and Regeneration. It was originally located in Kaohsiung and was reconstructed here after being dismantled.
Explore the traditional Chinese-style gardens, which feature elegant bridges and tranquil ponds that reflect the surrounding lush greenery.
Hiking Trails - The park serves as a gateway to several scenic paths, including the Touliao Ecological Trail and the Cihu Trail, which offer views of the countryside and the local volcano, Mount Caoling.
Cihu Visitor Center - Visit the center to see photographs, calligraphy, and historical displays. There is also a souvenir shop where you can find unique items like figurines and the honey plum cake favored by Madame Chiang. (Who is a fascinating lady to learn about)
Daxi Cihu Trails (大溪慈湖步道)
This is a network of three main trails along the Caoling River, perfect for a leisurely stroll -
Cihu Trail (慈湖步道)
This shady path is often described as a green tunnel. It runs along the picturesque Cihu Lake, offering a serene walk.
The trail connects the Cihu Visitor Center to the Cihu Mausoleum for the changing of the guards.
2. Touliao Eco Trail (頭寮生態步道) - 1.2 km
Meandering from the Cihu Mausoleum along the Caoling River, this trail showcases rustic scenery, including farm fields and river views.
It's a flat, cooling path ideal for families, where you can admire the view of the river and keep an eye out for white egrets. It also offers a view of Caoling Mountain, Taiwan's only shield volcano.
3. Swan Lake Trail (天鵝湖步道)
A pebbled path that circles a smaller lake, allowing visitors to enjoy a tranquil environment.
As the name suggests, you can gander at the black and white swans swimming leisurely on the lake. There is also a lakeside platform for resting.
Other Trails
Back Cihu (Houcihu) Ecological Trail (後慈湖)
This 2-kilometer trail requires entering from the side gate of Front Cihu Park and crosses over a small hill. It follows a small lake where President Chiang Kai-shek and his wife used to stroll.
Along the way, you can explore preserved structures from the Martial Law period, such as the commander's office, bunkers, and checkpoint gates.
Note: Back Cihu was a restricted zone and may still require advance booking or a guided tour for entry.
Baiji Trail (百吉步道)
Situated behind the Cihu area.
This trail, which was once part of a military area, is covered by a thick canopy of trees, offering a forested walk.
The path slopes gently and can be easily walked in about an hour. From the highest point, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Daxi area. It is known for its scenic views, rich butterfly ecology, and bird-watching, particularly in winter.
The trail branches to routes leading to Xizhou Park, Xishi Pavilion, and the Dajiugong Trail.
For your visit, it is highly recommended to start at the Cihu Visitor Center to get information and check on the current access status for specific areas like Back Cihu.
You should be able to get a tourist shuttle to Daxi Old Street - ask at the Tourist Information Kiosk.
DAXI OLD STREET
Is a living museum of Taiwan’s commercial history. During the late 19th century, it flourished as a vital trading hub for camphor and tea along the Tamsui River. This prosperity fueled the construction of its iconic Baroque-style facades, where traditional Chinese motifs blend seamlessly with ornate European designs.
Though its importance as a port eventually faded, the street remains famous for its traditional woodworking and signature dried tofu. Today, walking past the intricate stone carvings feels like stepping back into the Japanese colonial era, offering a beautifully preserved glimpse into Taiwan’s architectural and mercantile past.
What to See and Do in the Afternoon
Look up as you walk! The street is famous for its Baroque storefronts from the Japanese colonial era, featuring intricate stone carvings of birds, flowers, and auspicious symbols.
Scattered around the old street are several restored Japanese-style wooden buildings. The Daxi Wood Art Ecomuseum is free to enter and offers a peaceful atmosphere to learn about the town’s famous woodworking heritage.
At sunset, walk over to the Daxi Bridge. It’s illuminated at night and provides a great view of the Dahan River. You can take an elevator or walk down the Stairs of Time from the park at the end of the old street to get there.
Authentic Hakka Cuisine
Siyouyuan Flavor Restaurant
This is the gold standard for Hakka cuisine in Daxi.
Try their Pyramid Glutinous Rice and Hakka Stir-fry (squid, pork, and celery).
Daxi Hakka Noodles
If you want something more casual and quicker, this spot specializes in traditional Hakka-style noodles topped with fried shallots and pork slices.
Where to Sit, Drink and Watch the World Go By
The atmosphere in the late afternoon is particularly charming as the sun sets over the river.
Joinhouse Coffee 草店尾事務所
Tucked into a narrow alleyway, this place has a great hidden gem feel. They have excellent coffee and a window view that lets you watch the local life in the alleys.
Daxi Riverside Cafes
If you prefer a view of the river and the bridge, there are several open-air stalls and small cafes near Puji Road (the street overlooking the river). It’s the best spot to sit with a cold drink as the lights come on across the bridge.
* Most shops on the main Old Street start closing around 6 pm or 7 pm on weekdays, but restaurants and cafes usually stay open a bit later. If you visit on a weekend, it stays lively much longer.
Returning to Taipei Main Station
To return to Taipei after your evening in Daxi, the most reliable route involves taking an express bus back to a major transit hub.
It is a short walk to the Taoyuan Bus Daxi Terminal Station from the Heping Road old street area.
Bus 710 (Express) - This is the most efficient option. It runs from Daxi to Yongning MRT Station in New Taipei City. From Yongning, you can take the Blue Line (Bannan Line) directly to Taipei Main Station.
Buses generally run every 15 - 30 minutes until 9 pm or 10 pm.
* If you happen to be there on a weekend, the Bus 710 can get quite busy, so try to head to the terminal about 15 minutes before you want to leave to secure a seat for the ride back to the MRT.
Bus 9103 - This bus goes from Daxi all the way to Wanhua or Banqiao in Taipei, but it takes a longer, more local route.
Last Bus Note - Always double-check the "Next Bus" app or the digital display at the terminal, as service frequency drops significantly after 8 pm on weekdays.
Maokong🐈⬛ - Tuesday to Friday - MAP
The Maokong area in Taipei is a serene mountainous region famous for its Tieguanyin tea, offering a blend of traditional tea culture, hiking trails and stunning city views.
Maokong means cat hole in Mandarin and as you will notice they have been adopted as a bit of a theme around here.
Starting Point -
The main station is Taipei Zoo Station, which is the final stop on the Brown Line of the Taipei Metro (MRT).
From Taipei Main Station take the Bannan Line (Blue Line) toward Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center and get off at Zhongxiao Fuxing Station.
Wenhu Line (Brown Line) Transfer at Zhongxiao Fuxing and take the train toward Taipei Zoo (the terminal station). It will take about 44 mins.
Or you could take the Red Line to Daan.
BREAKFAST
When you are on the Brown line, get off at Daan Station and walk down to Yong He Soya Milk King (Da’an) - widely considered one of the most famous and iconic places to experience a traditional Taiwanese breakfast in Taipei. They have out door seating.
The full range of typical Taiwanese items are represented here - pork steamed buns (roubao), egg pancakes (danbing), xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), clay oven rolls (shaobing), soy & rice milks, and more.
The line on the street is for take-away. If you plan to stay, go inside, ask for menu, then sit while you decide.
Place your order from the back of the kitchen, not the line at the front. There’s a rack with spicy sauce and tissue dispensers are on the walls. Take your tray to the bin at the back and pay before leaving.
When you're ready you can continue down the road to the next station on the line - Technology Building Stn and finish your journey to the Gondola Station. When you depart the MRT station turn left and it is a 5 minute walk to the gondola.
The Ride -
The journey on the gondola is about 4 kilometers long and takes around 20 to 30 minutes one way, offering spectacular views of the cityscape, mountains and the occasional glimpse of the Taipei Zoo.
Cabins - You have two options for cabins
Standard Cabins - Enclosed cabins with regular flooring.
Crystal Cabins (貓纜之眼): These have glass floors, giving you a thrilling view of the forest directly below your feet. Since the Crystal Cabins are limited, the line for them is often longer.
If you are following this itinerary and not using Easy Card just get a one way ticket as you'll be catching the bus back.
Avoiding Crowds
The Maokong Gondola is extremely popular, especially on weekends and public holidays. To have the best, most peaceful experience
Weekday Mornings (Tuesday to Friday)
The queues will be minimal, and you'll have the tea houses and trails mostly to yourself. This is the prime time for a quiet visit.
You can follow this itinerary or just wander about and stop anywhere that looks good. Check tea prices before you order as many places are geared towards bigger groups and this can make 1 cup quite expensive. You can save money eating some of the plentiful street food.
0. Zinhan Temple - Optional
If you want to see this temple stop off on the way up as you'll be catching the bus back down.
Built in 1890, Zhinan Temple is a sprawling religious complex perched on the slopes of Monkey Mountain. It is uniquely syncretic, housing grand halls dedicated to Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism. It is spectacularly located and offers some of Taipei's most stunning panoramic views.
If you're feeling fit you could walk up the 1,200-step stone staircase lined with Japanese-era lanterns.
1. Information Centre
When you reach the top head to the Visitor’s Information Center first where you can pick up maps of the teahouse locations. They also have a convenience store and toilets.
2. Yao Yue Teahouse - Morning Smoko
Is a legendary spot for a traditional tea ceremony. It was one of the original tea-houses up here and you can get sweet tea-flavored rice cakes, steamed buns and other classic tea house treats.
3. Taipei Tea Promotion Center
Is an educational and cultural hub dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of Muzha Tieguanyin and Oolong tea. It serves as a perfect starting point for visitors to understand the agricultural history and processing techniques that define the Maokong region.
4. Big Pot Tea (A-Yi Shi) - Lunch
Located on the main ridge, this restaurant is famous for its tea-infused dishes like Tea Oil Fried Rice and Fried Tea Leaves.
Save some room for ice cream.
It offers a semi-open air balcony with views of the valley.
5. Maokong Tea House - Ice Cream O'clock 🍦
The gold standard for tourism. Known for the Cat Cookie and very creamy soft-serve texture.
Or next door is MaoKong Yang Tai - widely considered to have the most authentic and punchy tea flavor. It is less sweet and very refreshing.
6. The Camphor Tree Trail - easy 30 min walk
It is flat, paved, downhill and very easy. The trail is designed with a rustic farming life theme. You will pass by preserved charcoal kilns, pigsties, granaries, and traditional ox-carts, offering a glimpse into Taiwan's agricultural history.
As Maokong is famous for its Tieguanyin tea, the trail winds through lush tea terraces and vegetable gardens.
Zhangshan Temple - The trail leads you directly to this temple. It is arguably the best spot on the mountain for a direct view of Taipei 101. The temple provides free hot water and tea sets - it’s a tradition to bring your own leaves, but they often have some to share.
LAX Lazy is a beer garden style venue with great views and a 7 minute walk from the Zhangshan Temple.
If you take this option don't forget to get your ice cream on the way past on your way to the Camphor Tree Trail.
They close at midnight on weeknights and have a minimum spend. It's a top spot to watch the sunset and see the city lights come on. It offers a direct line of sight to Taipei 101 and the city basin. You can get a meal here too. Italian and gastropub dishes feature on the menu.
The Shishijiao bus stop (for the BR15) is 75 metres uphill from their front door, making it very easy to get home after a few drinks. As it is a dark mountain road you may need to use your phones flashlight to let drivers know you are there. Check what time the last bus leaves here and give yourself plenty time. Or call a taxi / uber.
9. Elsewhere Cafe - Option B 🍻
If it is a Thursday or Friday night this place is open until 2 am so you might want to call an Uber or Taxi to get home. Food and drink prices are cheaper than LAX.
To get back from Zhangshan Temple just grab a minibus back to Maokong Gondola Station and this place is a 15 minute walk back up the same way you came earlier.
The cafe is highly regarded for its night owl menu, blending comforting, home-style savory dishes with artisanal pastries that are popular for late-night cravings.
Shaozi noodles, particularly the Sweet Tomato version, which features thick, chewy noodles topped with a savory mix of minced pork, egg, and mushrooms.
It is famous for its delicate layered cakes, the Strawberry Mille-Feuille is a standout.
Heartwarming snacks and desserts like cinnamon apple pie and puddings that pair well with their tea selection.
They serve a variety of local tea-infused drinks, including craft beers.
While it isn't a direct 180-degree panorama of the city, the top-floor seating allows for glimpses of the Taipei city center far below. The twinkling city lights in the distance, framed by the surrounding forest, creates a romantic and cozy ambiance. Strings of fairy lights illuminate the leafy garden at night, adding to the aesthetic.
It features both comfortable indoor and sheltered outdoor seating that is popular for taking in the fresh mountain air and the view.
If you're enjoying the vibe up here, Yao Yue Teahouse where you had morning smoko 10 minutes further along, is open 24 hours. You might have to settle on drinking tea though. 🫖
U-Theatre Mountain Theatre - check their schedule
Public performances at the Mountain Theater of U Theatre are generally scheduled for special annual productions rather than on a weekly basis.
Visitors hiking the Zhangshu Trail or Camphor Tree Trail can sometimes hear the resonant drumming of the troupe practicing in the distance, providing a spiritual soundtrack to your trek.
If no mountain show is scheduled, the troupe occasionally performs at the National Theater and Concert Hall in central Taipei.
Three Old Streets - Mon - Fri
Get an early start and skip breakfast as you'll be having it at your first stop.
GETTING THERE - 45 Mins
At Taipei Main Station, board a northbound TRA train (Local or Express) bound for Ruifang Station.
RUIFANG OLD STREET MAP
Hop off the train here and you are right on the old street. This one is more authentic than the other two. With well-preserved architecture from the Japanese colonial era and without the massive tourist crowds.
Features historical landmarks such as the Liao residence, a relic from the Qing Dynasty, and the remains of a former Japanese police station.
Provides a peaceful walking environment with narrow alleys, vintage red lanterns, and period shops dating back to the early 1900s.
BREAKFAST
Is located at the end of the main street area towards the river and is considered the culinary heart of the district, offering a wide array of traditional Taiwanese street eats.
Known for specialty dishes like Longfengtui (minced pork and vegetable rolls), Fuzhou pepper pies, and thick pork soup.
Offers handmade taro balls and herbal rice cakes, which are local favorites often purchased as snacks for the onward journey to Jiufen.
Provides an air-conditioned environment where you can sit and enjoy a meal at local prices.
Signature Local Dishes
Longfengtui (Dragon Phoenix Legs)
This is Ruifang's most iconic street snack.It is a mixture of minced pork, fish paste, and vegetables like cabbage and carrots, wrapped in pork caul fat and deep-fried.
It is roughly the size of a corn dog and served on a wooden stick.
The outer layer becomes incredibly crispy while the inside stays moist and savoury.
You’ll often find several stalls competing for the "original" title right at the food court entrance.
Fuzhou Pepper Pies (Hu Jiao Bing)
These are traditional clay-oven-baked buns filled with a heavily seasoned pork mixture and plenty of fresh spring onions.
The dough is famously charred and crunchy on the outside from the high heat of the cylindrical oven.
The filling is juicy and carries a strong, aromatic black pepper kick.
Expect a small queue for these, as they are often pulled fresh from the oven in batches.
Sweet Potato and Taro Balls
While Jiufen is world-famous for these, Ruifang's versions are arguably just as good and often slightly cheaper.
These are handmade chewy dumplings served either in a hot sweet soup or over shaved ice.
The texture is "Q" (bouncy/chewy), a highly prized trait in Taiwanese desserts.
They are naturally sweetened by the root vegetables themselves.
RUIFANG to SHIFEN - 25 mins
Back to the train station and take the Pingxi Line, a charming scenic branch line specifically for this area.
Trains only leave here hourly so check the timetables.
Get off at Shifen Station. The old street is located directly outside the station. The area is famous for its street food and lanterns.
SHIFEN OLD STREET
Is a vibrant marketplace built directly around a working railway line. The shops here are primarily geared towards tourists, focusing on the area's famous traditions and local flavours.
The most prominent businesses on the street are the sky lantern shops, which occupy nearly every storefront along the tracks.
Miniature Lanterns - One of the most popular items is a mini sky lantern keychain or desk ornament, often featuring LED lights and auspicious calligraphy.
Specialty Food
The street functions as a linear food market with dozens of stalls serving snacks that are difficult to find elsewhere.
Peanut Ice Cream Rolls - A signature treat consisting of taro ice cream, shaved peanut brittle, and coriander wrapped in a thin crepe.
Stuffed Chicken Wings - Known locally as Birang, these are boneless grilled chicken wings stuffed with fried rice or kimchi.
MORNING SMOKO
If you are looking for somewhere to sit down for morning tea you could try Lou-A-Chu. It’s a red-brick building that used to be a dormitory for mining workers. It functions as a guesthouse and cafe and is widely considered the best place to sit and have tea with a view of the Jing'an Suspension Bridge.
SHINFEN WATERFALL WALK - 20 Mins
An easy, mostly flat walk from the Old Street.
Jing'an Suspension Bridge - Located right at the edge of the Old Street, this blue-and-white bridge spans the Keelung River.
Shifen Visitor Center - About halfway through the walk, you’ll hit the visitor center. It’s a good place for a quick rest, clean toilets and maps.
The Siguanyuan Path - You can choose to walk via the boardwalks that follow the river. This path is much more scenic than the main road, offering views of the lush greenery and the turquoise water.
Siguanyuan Suspension Bridge - Just before the falls, you'll cross this bridge, which offers a dramatic view of the railway tracks crossing the river. Often you can time it to see a train passing directly next to you.
Known as the Little Niagara of Taiwan, Shifen Waterfall is a broad, 40-metre wide curtain-style waterfall.
There are multiple levels of viewing platforms.
Near the entrance to the falls area, there is a small food court style plaza. You can find local snacks like grilled sausage, corn on the cob and cold drinks.
🐈⬛ HOUTONG CAT VILLAGE 🐈⬛ - 25 mins 🐈⬛ MAP
Back to the station and take the train to Houtong Cat Village. Traveling between the two is simple and takes you through the scenic lush valleys of the Pingxi Line. These run hourly also, so check your timings.
Houtong Station serves as the central hub that connects the industrial mining ruins on one side of the tracks to the residential cat village on the hillside.
The Cat Bridge - The station features a famous elevated walkway known as the Cat Bridge, which is designed with feline-friendly platforms and allows you to walk directly from the train platforms over to the village.
It is very common to find cats lounging right on the station benches, near the ticket gates, and even inside the station's small shops.
Everything from the signboards to the sculptures inside the station is cat-themed, making it immediately obvious you have arrived once you step off the train.
Cross the Cat Bridge to reach the hillside where most of the residential houses and cat-themed cafes are located.
The Industrial Side - Exit toward the front of the station to see the ruins of the coal preparation plant and find the local noodle stalls for lunch.
The Houtong Coal Mine Ecological Park
Is the expansive industrial counterpart to the cat village, preserving the remains of what was once Taiwan's largest and most technologically advanced coal processing center.
The Coal Preparation Plant - This is the most iconic structure in the park - a massive, multi-story industrial ruin with rusting machinery and crumbling concrete.
The Ruifang No. 3 Tunnel - You can walk through parts of the former mining tunnels.
Electric Miner Cars - One of the most popular activities is riding a restored electric mining car. It takes you on a short loop into a tunnel and around the site, which is great for understanding the scale of the operations.
The Miner’s Dormitory - This preserved living space shows the humble, often cramped conditions of the families who lived and worked in Houtong during the mid-20th century.
LUNCH
Miner's Noodles (Kuang Gong Mian) - Budget Friendly
Several stalls in front of the station serve simple, hearty noodles that were a staple for the local miners. More than just a meal—they are a cultural relic from the town's days as a prosperous coal mining hub. These dishes were designed to be cheap, filling, and quick for miners who needed high energy for their grueling shifts.
They usually consist of thick wheat noodles or oil noodles served in a savory pork-bone broth. They are almost always topped with slices of lean braised pork, bean sprouts, and a signature dollop of fried shallots and lard for a rich, aromatic flavor.
It is traditional to pair the noodles with "small plates" (Xiao Cai). Popular choices include smoked shark meat, braised tofu, or white sliced chicken, which add protein to the carbohydrate-heavy meal.
The most authentic spots are the no-name family-run stalls clustered in the square directly in front of the Houtong Station.
Da Mian Fa (Big Noodle Face) - This is one of the most famous long-standing shops. It has a very vintage feel with wooden benches and simple decor that hasn't changed much in decades.
A-Xia Miner's Noodles - Another local favorite known for its consistent broth and friendly service. Look for the shops with the busiest crowds of locals rather than just tourists.
CAT CAFES
Cat-Shaped Pineapple Cakes - these are a signature of the village. They are shortcrust pastries filled with pineapple jam, often shaped like a cat's head or a paw. Some shops even offer chocolate-flavored black cat versions.
One of the best in the village known for its cat puffs and cat-shaped mocha smoothies. It also houses one of the largest resident cats in the area.
MEOW MEOW
This modern, bright spot is famous for its cream puffs with a berry layer and its impressive latte art.
Walk and Taste Café
A great choice if you want something more substantial, they serve gourmet club sandwiches and paninis alongside their cat-themed coffee.
Jiufen Old Street - 15 - 25 - 40 minutes - MAP
Is a maze of narrow alleys and steep stairs, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and iconic scenery.
It is only 6 mins back up to Ruifang Station and the trains leave every 20 - 40 minutes. If you see a train labeled "Tze-Chiang Limited Express" or "Taroko/Puyuma," do not board. Stick to the Local (区间车) trains.
2. Bus from Ruifang to Jiufen - Exit Ruifang Station and walk about 200 metres to the bus stop next to the Ruifang Police Station. Board any bus heading to Jiufen (popular routes include 965, 1062, or 788). The bus ride uphill takes roughly 15 minutes.
3. By Taxi - taxis are readily available near the Houtong train station and they are not that expensive especially if there is more than one of you.
The Jiufen Old Street bus stop is the most popular drop-off point for visitors as it places you right at the entrance to the main shopping and food area.
Located right next to a 7-Eleven, which serves as the unmistakable landmark for the start of the Jishan Street entrance. It is like a covered arcade.
Ideal for those who want to start their exploration with street food and souvenir shopping immediately.
Most buses (like the 788, 827, and 965) will announce this clearly as Jiufen Old Street.
To experience the magic of Jiufen Old Street during the transition from afternoon to night, this itinerary focuses on catching the best views while avoiding the heaviest crowds.
Start your exploration by heading straight to Jishan Street, the main artery of the old town. Mid-afternoon is busy, but it is the best time to sample the famous street foods before many stalls begin to close around 7 pm.
1. Jishan Street Snack Walk
Begin at the 7-Eleven entrance. Look for Grandma Lai's Sweet Taro Balls for a quick bowl of their famous chewy dumplings.
2. Visit the Shengping Theater
On Qingbian Road. It’s a quiet, cool spot to appreciate the town's mining history and 1930s architecture before the evening rush.
3. Viewpoint Climb
Head up the stairs of Shuqi Road toward the top of the hill. The perspective from the top looking back down toward the harbor is spectacular as the sun begins to dip.
Is the most iconic location for this exact experience. While famous for tea, they offer a stunning outdoor terrace where you can watch the red lanterns illuminate the entire hillside.
Offers an outdoor balcony with an unobstructed view of the Keelung coastline and the North Sea.
Provides a prime vantage point to watch the thousands of lanterns along Shuqi Road flicker on around 5.30 pm – 6 pm.
Serves cold beverages and light snacks in a setting that feels like a scene from a movie.
Stands out as a delightful nightlife destination, seamlessly blending a vibrant atmosphere with stunning views that captivate patrons from the moment they arrive.
Skyline Teahouse
Offers beautiful views of the A-Mei Teahouse and surrounding mountains. No beer though.
Is a fantastic alternative if you prefer a slightly more laid-back, artistic vibe with expansive outdoor balcony seating.
Features a large outdoor terrace that faces West, making it one of the premier spots in town to watch the sunset over the mountains.
Known for a quieter, more refined atmosphere than the main tourist-heavy cafes.
Is a historic landmark located in one of the oldest buildings in the village, perfect for a slower-paced evening.
Boasts a beautiful outdoor patio area with panoramic views of the harbor.
Often stocks local Taiwanese craft beers alongside their high-end tea selection.
The interior features an art gallery and traditional charcoal pits, providing a cozy retreat if the mountain air gets chilly after sunset.
Getting back to Taipei Main Station from Jiufen is straightforward, with the most direct bus option dropping you within a short walk of the station.
1. The 965 Bus is the most convenient way to return to the city center. It is a direct route that takes approximately 70 - 90 minutes depending on traffic. When standing at the 7-Eleven entrance of the Old Street, you should walk uphill (away from the viewpoint/ocean) for about 50 - 100 metres and you will see a bus stop on the left.
It arrives at MRT Beimen Station, which is just a 5-10 minute walk or one underground passage away from Taipei Main Station.
Last Bus - The last 965 bus typically departs from the Jiufen Old Street stop at 9 pm on both weekdays and weekends.
Another common option is the 1062 Bus, which goes to MRT Zhongxiao Fuxing Station.
From Zhongxiao Fuxing, you would need to transfer to the Blue Line (Bannan Line) MRT to reach Taipei Main Station (3 stops).
Last Bus - This service generally runs slightly earlier or similar to the 965, with last departures around 8.30 pm - 9 pm.
**The Jiufen Old Street bus stop for your return to Taipei is located uphill from the main entrance of the old street (the one near the 7-Eleven).
To reach it, you will need to walk out of the Jishan Street entrance, turn right, and walk uphill along the main road for about 100 metres. You will see a small plaza with a wooden pavilion and often a queue of people waiting for the 965 or 1062 buses.
The Train
If you miss the direct buses or prefer the rail, you can take a local bus (like the 788 or 1062) down the hill to Ruifang Station.
From Ruifang, catch any Westbound train (heading toward Shulin or Hsinchu) to Taipei Main Station.
Local trains from Ruifang to Taipei run later than the buses, with the final services typically departing between 10.30 pm and 11 pm.
The bus ride from Jiufen to Ruifang takes about 15 minutes.
Grand Hotel Tour + Dim Sum Buffet M-T
With riverside bike ride to Tamsui 🚴♀️🚴♂️20.5 km MAP
You have a range of options about what and what time you eat at the Grand Hotel. Dress code is neat casual. There is the State Banquet Lunch, the 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm all you can eat Dim Sum Buffet. Or you could have afternoon tea at your leisurure. And at 5.30 pm and 6 pm you can have a choice of 5***** Dim Sum Buffets to remember. Dont forget to book the tunnel tour and the meal as well - see below. 👇
Whatever you decide will affect what time you head out, how long you spend on the bike route and what time you book your hotel tour. It would be good to start early to get the e-bikes.
Just stop off and have breakfast somewhere that looks enticing. Finding good food in Taiwan is never a problem.
There are about 4 - 5 YouBike Stations around Taipei Main Station. Find the closest one with e-bikes. The e-bikes are officially called YouBike 2.0E. They look very similar to the standard white YouBike 2.0, but you can identify them by -
Color - They have an orange pattern on the white frame and a white battery pack on the rear rack.
Digital Screen - The handlebars have a small display that shows the battery percentage.
Performance -They provide pedal-assist power up to 25 km/h. Thet are more expensive but still pretty cheap. Just drop it off at the entrance to the Old Street when you arrive.
Or go regular if you want the excerise. Tip - the path can get quite windy when riding north toward the ocean.
Have your app ready to go before you leave the hotel. All of the information is in YouBike above.☝️
Follow this map to Tamsui Old Street. You'll see the mangrove forests near Hongshulin, the massive Guandu Bridge, and various riverside parks with exercise stations and public art.
Keep an eye out for -
Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market Open 4 pm (Come back later)
Is a vibrant starting point or first stop where you can find a variety of food and drink stalls with outdoor seating overlooking the river.
Moonstar 360
Provides panoramic 360-degree views of the Keelung and Tamsui river confluence.
The temple is built into the side of a mountain and is visually stunning. The area around the temple has several traditional local breakfast stalls and small convenience stores that are active early in the morning to serve pilgrims and residents.
The wharf area here has recently been upgraded with its own container-style snack area, but doesn't open until later.
Offers plenty of public seating and bike parking.
Close to the Guandu Nature Park for those interested in birdwatching.
Just before you reach Tamsui, you’ll ride through a boardwalk section surrounded by mangroves—keep an eye out for mudskippers and crabs!
Tamsui Old Street Treats
A-Gei - The definitive Tamsui snack. It's a large piece of fried tofu stuffed with glass noodles, sealed with fish paste, and drenched in a sweet-spicy sauce.
Try it at the Original Ah-Gei on Zhenli Street.Iron Eggs, these are eggs (chicken or quail) that have been stewed and air-dried repeatedly until they are dark, small, and very chewy. They have a concentrated, savory flavor.
Tamsui fish balls are usually stuffed with a savory meat filling. They are incredibly "QQ" (bouncy).
Castella Cake. You'll see massive lines for these giant, wobbly sponge cakes. They are light, airy, and best eaten warm.
Sour Plum Drink (Suanmei Tang). A traditional tart, refreshing drink that is perfect for cooling down after a long ride.
Make your way to the Tamsui Station and take the red Tamsui-Xinyi Line down to Yuanshan Station. It takes 31 mins and they leave every 9 mins. From Yuanshan Station Exit 1 there are free shuttle buses to Taipei Grand Hotel near the bus stops on Yumen Street every 20 - 30 minutes. Otherwise it is a 15 minute walk or a cheap cab ride.
THE GRAND HOTEL
The Grand Hotel in Taipei is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, serving as a symbol of Taiwan's political history and classical Chinese aesthetics. Established in 1952, it was built on the ruins of the Taiwan Grand Shrine from the Japanese colonial era.
The hotel was founded by Madame Chiang (Soong Mei-ling) to foster international relations at a time when Taipei lacked luxury five-star accommodations.
Dragon Palace - The hotel is nicknamed the Dragon Palace because it contains an estimated 200,000 dragon-themed carvings and motifs throughout its architecture and furniture.
Political Hub - For decades, it was the primary venue for state banquets and hosted over 111 heads of state, including U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1960.
Famous Incidents and Features
The hotel has been the site of several high-profile incidents and is famous for its secret features that were long the subject of urban legend.
The 1995 Fire - On June 27, 1995, a massive fire broke out on the roof during renovations. Because the building was so tall and the roof was made of wood, high-pressure pumps couldn't reach the flames. The roof and upper floors were destroyed, and the hotel did not fully reopen until 1998.
Secret Escape Tunnels - Two secret underground passages were built in 1973 as emergency escape routes for Chiang Kai-shek and visiting dignitaries. The western passage famously includes a 20-meter-long slide—the world’s longest secret slide—designed to help the elderly Chiang evacuate quickly.
Diplomatic Protest (1978) - When U.S. envoy Warren Christopher arrived at the hotel in 1978 to discuss the breaking of diplomatic ties, his motorcade was pelted with eggs and stones by thousands of protesters gathered outside the hotel gates.
Benigno Aquino Jr. (1983) - The Philippine opposition leader stayed at the Grand Hotel the night before his final flight to Manila, where he was assassinated upon arrival at the airport.
Exploring the Hotel
The Lobby - The massive red columns and caisson ceiling featuring 223 carved dragons are masterpieces of Chinese architecture.
Grand Staircase - Located in the center of the lobby, this is the most iconic photo spot in the building.
Cultural Artifacts - Wander the hallways to see historical photos of world leaders and dignitaries who have stayed here.
Hotel Secret Tunnel Tour - East vs. West
The hotel offers two separate tours of its Cold War-era evacuation tunnels. The West Secret Tunnel is generally considered the best for first-time visitors.
West Tunnel - most popular
Famous for its 20-metre secret slide designed for quick evacuation of the elderly President Chiang Kai-shek. While you cannot actually slide down it today for safety reasons, it is a much more unique architectural feature than the East Tunnel.
The tunnel ends at a hidden gate that opens into Jiantan Park.
East Tunnel - more scenic
Leads to the former residence of Miss Kong, a relative of the Chiangs. It is more about the secret garden where dignitaries used to stroll and the residence at the end.
The East Tunnel was opened more recently and is considered the more complete experience for those interested in the lifestyle of the former ruling family. It is shorter but ends in a much more picturesque location.
The "Secret Garden" - Unlike the West Tunnel which ends at a park gate, this tunnel leads to a beautifully landscaped 112-metre garden that was formerly the site of a Japanese Shinto shrine.
Miss Kung’s Residence - The tour includes a visit to the former home of the hotel’s first General Manager, Kung Ling-wei (Miss Kung Er). The residence is preserved with original furnishings and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the hotel's elite past.
The walls are intentionally rough and winding to absorb sound and prevent pursuers from having a straight line of sight.
Which should you choose?
Pick the West Tunnel if your main goal is to see the famous escape slide and you want the most iconic photo.
Pick the East Tunnel if you prefer a more scenic finish in the Secret Garden and want to see the historic residence for a more comprehensive story.
Use the Grand Hotel’s online booking system to reserve your slot. Also have a look to see what packages are available.
The most direct "Grand History" experience for non-guests is the Secret Tunnel & State Banquet Lunch package.
Secret Tunnels & State Banquet Lunch (Day Package)
This is the most popular way to experience the hotel's history in a single day.
What's Included
The East or West Tunnel Tour - A guided walk through the secret escape routes, including the famous slide (West) or the "Mystery Garden" and Ms. Kung's residence (East).
State Banquet Set Lunch - A multi-course meal at the Yuan Yuan Restaurant. The menu typically features presidential favorites like Stewed Pork Ribs, Yangzhou Fried Rice, and their famous Red Bean Rice Cake (Madame Chiang's favorite dessert).
Professional guides explain the hidden architectural symbols and political stories of the lobby and grounds.
Or after the tour head to the -
Located on the first floor for their renowned afternoon tea buffet.
Enjoy a borderless creative buffet featuring a mix of Taiwanese specialties, dim sum, and French-style desserts.
Afternoon tea service runs from 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm.
If you prefer a lighter, à la carte experience rather than a buffet, you can visit the Garden Café.
Offers set tea meals, coffee, and specialty drinks with a minimum spend of about the price of a beer per person.
Frequently features live piano or traditional Chinese music during the tea service.
Evening Dim Sum Buffet
They offer a highly-rated Dim Sum All You Can Eat Buffet or set menus.
Dinner service begins at 5.30pm to 9.30 pm.
Booking - It is essential to book via the hotel website or the Inline app. The window-side tables overlooking the Keelung River are popular.
Has a massive international buffet that includes a high-end dim sum station.
Dinner starts at 6 pm and runs until 9.30 pm. Monday to Thursday are cheaper.
Bookings are highly recommended via the hotel’s Inline booking app link on their website.
WULAI - Sunday & Monday - MAP
Leave your main pack at the hotel and just travel with your daypack. You will be having breakfast at a special place this morning.
** Don't forget your bathers and a swimming cap - most public hot springs in Taiwan require both!
No rush today, just go at your own pace. However it is Sunday morning and you will be going somewhere special for breakfast so the earlier you get there the less the wait will be. It's large and open 24 hours so you won't have to wait too long anyway.
To get from Taipei Main Station to Dingxi Station, you will primarily use the Zhonghe-Xinlu Line (Orange Line).
The most direct route takes about 20 minutes.
Red or Blue Line - From Taipei Main Station, take either the Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) toward Xiangshan or the Bannan Line (Blue Line) toward Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center for just one stop.
Transfer -
If on the Red Line, transfer at NTU Hospital Station.
If on the Blue Line, transfer at Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station.Orange Line: Take the Zhonghe-Xinlu Line (Orange Line) south toward Nanshijiao.
Arrival - Get off at Dingxi Station. Shijie Soymilk King is then a short 3-5 minute walk from Exit 2.
Shi Jie Soy Milk King ---- Breakfast
Is the original Yonghe Soy Milk breakfast shop that has been copied by thousands of copy-cat shops.
It has a storied history that is deeply intertwined with the post-war migration of military veterans to Taiwan and the birth of a national breakfast tradition. Established in 1955, it is considered the original pioneer of the Yonghe Soy Milk brand that has since become famous across Taiwan and mainland China.
Founded by Veterans - The business was started in 1955 by Li Yun-zeng, a Kuomintang (KMT) veteran originally from Shandong, along with several of his former military comrades.
Lacking formal job opportunities after leaving the military, the group began by selling traditional Shandong-style breakfast items—like shaobing (sesame flatbread) and soymilk—from simple pushcarts near the foot of the Yonghe Zhongzheng Bridge.
The area around the bridge was a gathering spot for veterans from various Chinese provinces. The familiar flavors of their home cuisine quickly made the stall a popular community hub, allowing the business to transition from a roadside cart to a permanent restaurant.
Shijie Soymilk King holds the distinction of being the first breakfast shop in Yonghe to offer 24-hour service, a move that solidified its status as a landmark for both early morning workers and late-night diners.
The shop's success was so significant that the name "Yonghe" became synonymous with high-quality soymilk throughout the region, leading to countless other shops adopting the name to signal authenticity.
How to Order like a Local
Ordering can feel chaotic because of the speed, but at Shijie Soymilk King, the process is modernized and straightforward.
Step 1 Grab a Menu. Look for the paper menus at the entrance. They usually have English and Japanese translations alongside the Chinese.
Step 2 Find a Seat. Unlike many other shops, you usually find your table first here. Note your table number.
Step 3 Mark your choices. Tick the boxes for what you want.
Tip. If you want your soy milk cold, look for 冰 (bīng); for hot, look for 熱 (rè).Step 4 Pay at the Counter. Take your marked menu to the back/side counter to pay.
Step 5 Listen for your Beeper. They will give you a vibrating buzzer. When it goes off, head to the pickup window to collect your tray.
Now you have some fuel in the tank walk back to Dingxi Station about 3–5 minutes.
MRT to Xindian - Take the Zhonghe-Xinlu Line (Orange Line) north for one stop to Guting Station. Transfer to the Songshan-Xindian Line (Green Line) heading south and ride it to the terminal stop, Xindian Station.
Bus to Wulai - Exit Xindian Station and look for the stop for Bus 849. This bus goes directly into the mountains to Wulai. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes and offers scenic views as you climb.
Total Travel Time ie about 1 hour and 9 minutes.
Bus 849 generally runs every 15–20 minutes, though it can be more frequent during peak hours.
WULAI
Wulai is a misty mountain village south of Taipei, renowned for its alkaline beauty water hot springs and vibrant Atayal indigenous culture. The town is centered around Wulai Old Street, where you can sample wild boar sausages and millet wine.
Beyond the food, a vintage Log Cart train transports you to the base of the towering 80-meter Wulai Waterfall. For a bird's-eye view, a cable car ascends to the Yun Hsien Resort atop the cliffs. Whether you are soaking in a riverside bath or exploring lush hiking trails, Wulai offers a refreshing, emerald-green escape from the city.
You can find a range of experiences from luxury riverside resorts to more budget-friendly bathhouses along Wulai Old Street and Wenquan Road.
Public vs. Private - While the large public riverside wild springs have seen changes/closures in recent years due to regulations, many hotels offer both public nude pools (separated by gender) and private individual hot spring rooms for 1–2 hour soaks.
STAY
Sun Moon Bed & Breakfast 8.6 - B & D Included - Pay on Arrival
Excellent location next to the market and the Old Street, Public and private hot spring baths, very good Chinese breakfast and hotpot dinner included, close to the bus stop and the mini-train, terrace, spa and wellness centre, restaurant, 24 hour desk, steam room, massage, coffee house
Full Moon Spa *** 8.7 - B & D Included - Pay on Arrival
Excellent location next to the night market, river and old street, public and private hot spring baths, outdoor dining with shabu-shabu, river and village views, 1 minute from the old street and 5 minutes from the bus terminal, very good Chinese and Western breakfasts included, Hot pot dinner included, massage, sauna, steam room, 24 hour desk, restaurant, jacuzzi, spa facilities, sun terrace
Hot Springs with a View
Wulai is famous for its emerald-green river and mountain landscapes, and several hot spring locations take full advantage of these views with open-air or semi-outdoor soaking areas.
Wulai Hot Springs
Is the primary public area where you can find low-key, al fresco pools right along the Nanshi River.
Features several outdoor public pools for a communal soaking experience.
Offers direct, unobstructed views of the river and surrounding lush greenery.
Accessible 24 hours a day for those who want to soak under the stars.
Volando Urai Spring Spa & Resort
Is an upscale option known for its elegant design and serene atmosphere, frequently cited for having some of the most beautiful riverside views in the area.
Boasts large floor-to-ceiling windows and semi-open public baths that face the turquoise river.
Known for a tranquil vibe that blends the indoor luxury with the natural outdoor scenery.
Includes high-end spa facilities and refined dining options.
馥森阪治Trio (Fusen Banzhi Trio)
Provides a more contemporary and artistic approach to the hot spring experience, tucked further into the mountainside.
Features semi-open private bathhouses that allow for fresh mountain air and scenic forest views.
Focuses on an aesthetic inspired by local indigenous culture and natural materials.
Includes an on-site restaurant serving creative dishes.
Pause Landis Resort Wulai
Is a sleek, modern resort that prioritizes clean lines and expansive views of the Nanshi River.
Offers public open-air baths that overlook the river valley.
Features minimalist, chic decor that doesn't distract from the natural beauty outside.
Provides various soaking packages, including public and private bath options.
Wulai Old Street
Is a vibrant stone-paved thoroughfare in New Taipei City that serves as a gateway to Atayal indigenous culture, famous for its carbonated hot springs and unique mountain cuisine.
The name "Wulai" comes from the Atayal word for smoking hot water, a reference to the natural hot springs discovered by a hunter generations ago. Historically, the area was a significant Atayal settlement. During the Japanese colonial era, a log cart system was built to transport timber and coal from the surrounding mountains; today, this has been restored as the Wulai Scenic Train, a popular tourist attraction. While Typhoon Soudelor caused damage in 2015, the district has since been revitalized, blending its heritage with modern tourism.
Must-Try Street Food
The food scene is defined by indigenous flavors and mountain delicacies that you won't find in downtown Taipei.
Wild Boar Sausage - Cited as the #1 must-try, these plump, juicy sausages are grilled over charcoal and are best enjoyed with raw garlic cloves.
Bamboo Tube Rice - Glutinous rice seasoned with salt or mountain pepper (Maqaw) and steamed inside fresh bamboo tubes, giving it a subtle woody aroma.
Hot Spring Eggs - Eggs slow-cooked in geothermal water, resulting in a silky white and a perfectly runny, glistening yolk.
Millet Wine & Mochi - Try the sweet, cloudy millet wine (a traditional Atayal specialty) and freshly pounded millet mochi, which comes in flavors like peanut, black sesame, and taro.
Unique Shops to Visit
Beyond the food stalls, the street is lined with shops showcasing traditional crafts and local history.
Wulai Atayal Museum - Located directly on the old street, this free museum offers a deep dive into Atayal weaving, history, and customs.
Indigenous Craft Stores - Look for shops selling hand-woven textiles, traditional beaded jewelry, and intricate wood carvings that reflect tribal motifs.
Maqaw Speciality Shops - You can find mountain pepper (Maqaw) used in everything from dried spices to infused oils and even chocolates.
Sunday Hours
On Sundays Wulai Old Street opens around 10 am and closes at 6 pm. While the main street starts to quiet down after 5:00 PM as day-trippers head back to Taipei, some restaurants may stay open slightly later, though it is generally not a late-night destination.
Where to Grab a Beer
Local craft beer and coffee place
Is a specialized spot right on the old street that caters specifically to those looking for a quality brew.
Offers a selection of local Taiwanese craft beers that you won't find at the standard food stalls.
Provides a relaxed, sit-down environment that transitions from coffee in the morning to a bar-like vibe in the afternoon.
Perfect for people-watching directly from the heart of the historic thoroughfare.
翠山飲食店 Cui Shan Eatery
Is a classic mountain-style restaurant located on the street where you can enjoy a full meal with your drink.
Features a large menu of indigenous Atayal dishes and mountain vegetables that pair perfectly with a cold Taiwan Beer.
Offers casual indoor and semi-outdoor seating where you can soak in the bustling street atmosphere.
Open until 9 pm on Sundays, making it one of the later-closing options in the area.
烏來海角8號 Wulai Cape No. 8
Is another excellent choice if you prefer a view of the river while you relax.
Known for its scenic outdoor seating area that overlooks the Nanshi River.
Serves a variety of beverages, including beer, alongside light snacks and indigenous-inspired snacks.
The atmosphere is generally quieter than the main food stalls, making it a good escape while still being close to the action.
山地美食屋 Mountain Food House
Is a popular local favorite for those who want a lively, communal dining experience.
Highly rated for its authentic wild boar dishes and bamboo rice.
Provides plenty of seating and is a common spot for groups to grab a few bottles of beer while enjoying the street energy.
Located centrally on the old street, ensuring you are right in the middle of the Sunday crowds.
Another area to sit and watch the action with a drinkis the hot spring river view restaurants located at the end of the street near the Lansheng Bridge.
Formosa Nostalgic Eatery
A retro-style restaurant with open windows that provide an unobstructed view of the Nanshi River and the mountains. You can order local dishes and a cold Taiwan Beer while watching visitors cross the bridge and board the log cart train.
Riverside Cafes -
Several small eateries along the river-facing side of the street offer balcony seating where you can enjoy the breeze and the sight of people soaking in the wild hot springs by the riverbank.
Sunday Arrival
Sunday will still be busy with day-trippers from Taipei. Just please yourself with what you want to do. You have dinner provided at the hotel which is handy as a lot of restaurants will close early. It might be nice to go out for a soak under the stars later on. You can see the sights tomorrow when the crowds have left.
Monday Exploration - take snacks & water for your hike
Monday is the perfect day to visit the Neidong Forest Recreation Area and the Wulai Waterfall. You will find significantly fewer people on the trails and the Log Cart, allowing for a much more tranquil experience.
On Mondays, both attractions are open from 9 am until 5 pm. Since the log cart ride is short and Neidong is only a 10 - 15 minute drive from the village center, you can easily complete both and still be back in Taipei by late afternoon.
9 am - The Log Cart to the Waterfall
The Wulai Scenic Train starts operating at 9 am. Taking the first train of the day is a great way to avoid any potential tour groups.
The ride itself is a charming 5 - 10 minute trip that takes you from the Wulai Old Street area up to the base of the Wulai Falls.
You'll arrive right at the waterfall viewing platform, perfect for morning photos before it gets bright.
Morning Tea with a View - Sit at one of the cafes directly facing the Wulai Waterfall, it’s the tallest in Northern Taiwan.
10 am - Head to Neidong Forest Recreation Area
From the waterfall area, you can grab a taxi for the short drive to 內洞國家森林遊樂區.
The main trail is a gentle, flat walk that takes about 40 - 60 minutes round-trip.
The park is famous for its three-tiered waterfalls and high concentration of negative ions, which feel incredibly refreshing on a quiet Monday morning.
Neidong Forest Recreation Area is one of the best spots near Wulai for "forest bathing" (phytoncides) and waterfalls.
Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku (森林浴), is a Japanese practice developed in the 1980s that involves immersing yourself in a forest environment to improve your health. Unlike hiking, the goal isn't exercise or reaching a destination, it's about slowing down and engaging all five senses to bathe in the forest atmosphere.
The magic ingredient often cited in this practice is phytoncides.
Phytoncides are natural, volatile organic compounds (essentially wood essential oils) that trees and plants release into the air.
They act as a biological defense system, protecting the plant from harmful bacteria, fungi, and insects.
Effect on Humans - When you breathe in forest air, you inhale these compounds. Scientific studies, most notably by Dr. Qing Li of Nippon Medical School, have shown that exposure to phytoncides can have measurable physiological benefits.
The Science-Backed Benefits
Research into forest medicine suggests that a few hours of mindful walking in a high-phytoncide environment (like Neidong) can lead to -
Immune System Boost - It increases the count and activity of Natural Killer (NK) cells, which help the body fight off viruses and even tumor cells. This effect can last for several days or even a month after a long forest trip.
Stress Reduction - It significantly lowers levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and adrenaline.
Lower Blood Pressure - Participants often show a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate compared to walking in an urban setting.
Improved Mood - It has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
How to Forest Bathe in Neidong
Since Neidong is famous for its high concentration of both phytoncides and negative ions (from the waterfalls), it’s the perfect place to try it.
Leave the phone behind. Or at least keep it on silent in your bag.
Slow down - Walk much slower than your usual pace. Notice the texture of the moss or the different shades of green in the ferns.
Breathe deeply - Inhale the damp, earthy scent of the forest - that forest smell is the phytoncides at work.
Listen - Focus on the sound of the Nanshi River and the specific white noise of the waterfalls.
The park is well-structured, with three main trails that can be combined into a loop.
1. Waterfall Viewing Trail (Easy)
This is the most popular and accessible route in the park.
Distance ~1 km (one-way)
Difficulty - Very Easy / Barrier-free
Highlights - The trail is flat and paved, following the Nanshi River. It’s perfect for families or a relaxed stroll. You’ll pass the Luohao Dam and eventually reach the Leshui Bridge, which offers a stunning view of the multi-tiered Neidong Waterfalls. This area is famous for having the highest concentration of negative ions in Taiwan.
2. Scenic Trail (Moderate)
If you want to get your heart rate up and escape the main crowds, this is the trail to take.
Distance ~1.5 km
Difficulty - Moderate
Highlights - This trail zig-zags up the mountainside from near the entrance. It is steeper and more primitive than the waterfall trail, consisting of dirt paths and wooden steps. It provides great vantage points looking down at the river valley and the dam below.
3. Forest Bathing Trail (Moderate)
This trail connects the top of the Scenic Trail back down to the waterfalls.
Distance ~1.7 km
Difficulty - Moderate
Highlights - This is a true jungle experience, surrounded by dense ferns (over 65 species) and towering trees. It’s relatively quiet and very shaded. Most hikers use this to complete a loop, descending back toward the waterfall viewing platforms.
The Full Loop
To see everything the Full Loop (approx. 2.5 – 3 hours)
Enter and walk the Waterfall Viewing Trail to see the falls first.
Take the stairs up to the Upper Waterfall viewing deck.
Continue upward onto the Forest Bathing Trail.
Connect to the Scenic Trail to descend back to the park entrance.
Facilities - There are water dispensers and restrooms at the entrance and near the waterfall, but no food is sold inside. Bring snacks and water from Wulai Old Street.
1 pm - Lunch and Departure
You can head back to Wulai Old Street for lunch, shopping, soaking or whatever you feel like.
If you haven't made it to the Wulai Atayal Museum yet, go and have a look. This free museum offers great insight into the weaving, hunting, and facial tattoo traditions of the local indigenous people.
It's under two hours to get back to Taipei so there's no rush.
Tips for Monday
The Wulai Scenic Train occasionally closes for maintenance on certain weekdays, though usually, it remains open on Mondays. It's a good idea to double-check with your hotel front desk on Sunday evening.
Neidong Transportation - Taxis are usually waiting near the Wulai Falls however, it is a good idea to ask your driver for a phone number or arrange a pickup time for the return journey, as it can be harder to find a cab directly at the Neidong entrance.
What and Where to Eat in Taipei - MAP
BREAKFAST
Taipei’s Yonghe style breakfast refers to a specific culinary tradition that originated in the Yonghe District of New Taipei City in the 1950s. It was pioneered by mainland Chinese immigrants who introduced Northern-style pastries and soy milk, which eventually became a 24-hour staple across Taiwan.
The hallmark of a true Yonghe breakfast is the variety of textures - flaky, crispy, chewy, and silky.
There are a lot of these about and two of the very best are in the itinerary. Including the original - see Wulai and Three Old Streets. ☝️
Best Dishes to Order
Salty Soy Milk 鹹豆漿 (Xián Dòujiāng) A savory soup curdled with vinegar. It includes dried shrimp, pickled radish, green onions, and bits of fried dough.
Sweet Soy Milk 甜豆漿 (Tián Dòujiāng) Served hot or cold. It's smooth, lightly sweetened, and the perfect dip for other pastries.
Fried Dough Stick 油條 (Yóutiáo) Long, airy, deep-fried crullers. Best eaten fresh and dipped into your soy milk until slightly soft.
Egg Pancake 蛋餅 (Dànbǐng) A thin, chewy crepe with an egg fried onto it. You can add fillings like pork floss or cheese.
Clay Oven Roll 燒餅 (Shāobǐng) A flaky, multilayered sesame flatbread. Pro tip: Order it "with egg and dough stick" (shāobǐng jiā dànbǐng yóutiáo).
Rice Roll 飯糰 (Fàntuán) Sticky rice stuffed with pork floss, pickled radish, and a crunchy fried dough stick. It's very filling.
Soup Dumplings 小籠包 (Xiǎolóngbāo) Many Yonghe shops serve affordable, rustic versions of these steamed pork dumplings.
Why Salty Soy Milk is Unique
If you haven't tried it, the Salty Soy Milk is the most unusual dish. The addition of vinegar causes the soy milk to curdle slightly, giving it a texture similar to very soft tofu or a savory porridge. It’s an acquired taste for some, but it's the quintessential Taipei comfort breakfast.
DIM SUM
There are two internationally famous and highly convenient dim sum restaurants located directly at or right next to Taipei Main Station.
1. Tim Ho Wan (添好運)
Tim Ho Wan is famously known as the World's Cheapest Michelin-Starred Restaurant. It originates from Hong Kong and is immensely popular worldwide.
Located right across from the Taipei Main Station complex, making it extremely easy to access.
Must-Try Dishes.
Baked BBQ Pork Buns (酥皮焗叉烧包) Their signature dish.
Steamed Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce.
Pan-fried Radish Cake.
2. DIM DIM SUM (點點心)
A respected and established Hong Kong chain that has been featured in several global food guides. It is known for serving quality dim sum with some fun, innovative twists.
Conveniently located inside the Breeze Taipei Station mall (on the 2nd floor of the main train station building), making it the most accessible option if you are passing through the station.
Must-Try Dishes.
Piggy Custard Buns - A fun, photogenic dish where the custard buns are shaped like little pigs (you poke a chopstick in the nose to make the custard explode).
Crispy Rice Flour Rolls with Shrimp (or other fillings) - A classic item with a unique, satisfyingly crunchy texture.
5***** DIM SUM @ THE GRAND HOTEL
There are a range of dim sum options at this landmark hotel outlined above ☝️in the visit there.
Beef Noodles near Taipei Main Station
Finding the best beef noodles near Taipei Main Station is easy, as some of the city's most legendary and budget-friendly shops are tucked away in the narrow alleys just south of the station.
Is a Michelin-recommended institution that has been serving hungry commuters since 1951. It is famous for its thick, udon-style noodles and a clear, flavorful broth.
Features a clear broth (qing dun) style that is deeply savory without being oily.
Offers a very modest, old-school atmosphere that feels like a step back in time.
Known for its signature beef tendon which is braised until perfectly tender.
Fuhong Beef Noodles
Is the go-to spot for locals who want a massive, satisfying meal at any hour of the day. It is a no-frills eatery that prioritizes speed and volume.
Open 24 hours, making it perfect for travelers arriving late at Taipei Main Station.
Provides free-flow spicy beef tallow and pickled greens on the tables to customize your broth.
Offers a braised (hong shao) style broth that is rich and dark.
Beef Noodle of the King
Is another highly-regarded option located in the same dense cluster of shops near the station, favored for its traditional approach and consistent quality.
Focuses on a classic Taiwanese beef noodle experience with a balanced, spiced broth.
Popular with the office crowd and students in the area for its efficient service.
Braised Pork Rice
Taipei Main Station is surrounded by several excellent options for braised pork rice (Lu Rou Fan), ranging from modern, clean shops to historic local favorites.
Braised Pork Rice (aka Bei Bei Che Lu Rou Fan)
Is a standout choice for those looking for a high-quality bowl within a 5-minute walk of the station. It is known for its modern, clean interior and its exceptionally flavorful toppings.
Signature Features - The pork is finely minced and simmered until it reaches a sticky, gelatinous consistency that perfectly coats the rice.
Must-Try Side - pair the rice with their soft-boiled egg for an extra layer of richness.
Is arguably the most famous name in Taipei for this dish. While it is about a 10-minute taxi ride or a short MRT trip (2 stops) from the station, many consider it a must-eat for its historic status and distinct flavor profile.
Signature Features - Unlike the very fatty versions elsewhere, Jin Feng uses thinner strips of pork that are braised with shiitake mushrooms, giving the sauce a deeper, earthier umami.
It is a bustling, fast-paced no-frills eatery where you will likely share a table with locals.
It remains very affordable.
三元號魯肉飯 Sun Yuan Hao
Is located just a bit further north near the Ningxia Night Market area but is reachable via a short walk or quick ride. It is a legendary spot that has been operating for over 80 years.
Signature Features - Their version is known for being slightly leaner and more savory, often served with a side of their famous shark fin-style thick soup (made with alternative ingredients).
Traditional Setting - It offers a very nostalgic atmosphere that feels like a classic Taipei diner.
Yongkang Street - MAP
Is a famous food hub with a mix of classic institutions and popular street food.
Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
The original branch of this world-renowned restaurant is located near the entrance to Yongkang Street. But like everything in Taipei it's best on weekdays to avoid the crowds. So you might be visiting the branch in Taicung City. That's were you will find their story.👇
Although the original location is take-away only and you might catch them at a good time.
Yongkang Beef Noodles (永康牛肉麵)
A Taipei staple since 1963, this award-winning spot is known for its rich, flavorful, and often spicy braised beef noodle soup with tender beef chunks.
James Kitchen (大隱酒食)
Known for serving up quintessential, delicious Taiwanese comfort food in a cozy, home-cooked atmosphere. It was famously visited by Anthony Bourdain.
Dongmen Dumplings (東門餃子館)
A popular spot for classic boiled Taiwanese dumplings, potstickers, and hot and sour soup.
Fucheng Tainan Restaurant (府城台南美食)
Specializes in authentic cuisine from Southern Taiwan's Tainan, including favorites like braised pork rice (luroufan) and ba-wan (a unique Taiwanese specialty made from potato starch).
Lao Deng 1949 (老鄧擔擔麵)
A fifth-generation spot with over 70 years of history, famous for its DanZai Noodles.
Famous Desserts
Smoothie House (思慕昔本館)
This is one of the most famous places for mango shaved ice (mango tsuah-ping), known for its mountain-sized, refreshing desserts.
Taro King (芋頭大王)
Operating since 1976, it offers a range of ice desserts and more traditional Taiwanese options like red bean soup and ginger douhua (tofu pudding).
Ice Monster (Original)
While the original shop's location is now Smoothie House, its legacy (and new location nearby) is famous for shaved snow, which is made from flavored ice blocks.
Bai-Shui Tofu Pudding (白水豆花) / Mata Tofu Pudding (山海豆花)
Popular spots for sweet tofu pudding (douhua) served with ingredients like peanuts and ginger syrup.
Street Food & Snacks
Tian Jin Onion Pancake (天津蔥抓餅)
Arguably the most famous street food stall on the street, this place has long queues for its thick, crispy, and flaky scallion/onion pancake (cong zhua bing) which you can order with additions like egg, basil, or cheese.
Sunmerry Dongmen Shop (聖瑪莉東門店)
A good spot for a bakery treat and to pick up Taiwanese souvenir snacks like pineapple cakes.
☕ Historic Café
Fong Da Coffee (蜂大咖啡)
Café founded in 1956, Fong Da is one of Taipei’s oldest Western-style coffee houses and still retains its classic, old-school atmosphere. They are famous for their unique vacuum-pot brewing method and their complementary small pastries.
🍵 Traditional Tea House
South Street Delight Tea House (南街得意)
Tea House located in a beautifully preserved building in the historic Dadaocheng district, which was the heart of Taipei's tea and commerce trade in the 19th century. This charming teahouse offers steeped hot beverages and traditional Taiwanese snacks in an environment that reflects the area’s rich past.
Best Night Markets in Taipei - The Big 5 - MAP
The largest and most famous night markets in Taipei are open 7 days a week, though stall opening times can vary slightly. They are typically busiest on Friday and Saturday nights.
1. Shilin Night Market 士林夜市
The largest and most famous. Giant Fried Chicken Cutlet (Hot-Star is legendary), Oyster Omelette, Large Taiwanese Sausage, Pan-Fried Buns, Bubble Tea.
2. Raohe Street Night Market 饒河街觀光夜市
One of the oldest, located near the stunning Ciyou Temple. It is a single, easy-to-navigate street. Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns (胡椒餅) – baked in a cylindrical oven, the most famous dish at the entrance. Grilled Cuttlefish, Herbal Steamed Chicken.
3. Ningxia Night Market 寧夏夜市
A smaller, intimate, and often considered the best for traditional foodies, with many Michelin-recognized stalls. Oyster Omelette (Yuen Huan Pien is famous), Deep-fried Taro Balls (Liu Yu Zi is famous), Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan), Grilled Squid.
4. Linjiang Street Night Market 臨江街夜市 (aka Tonghua)
More local and residential, located close to Taipei 101. Tangyuan (Sweet Soup Dumplings) (Yu Pin Yuan is famous), Pig's Blood Cake, Crispy Taiwanese Chicken, Scallion Pancakes.
5. Nanjichang Night Market 南機場夜市
Is often described as a local's secret and is widely regarded by Taipei residents as the night market with the highest density of high-quality food. Located in the Wanhua District, it lacks the flashy clothing stalls and carnival games of Shilin, focusing almost exclusively on exceptional traditional street eats at very affordable prices. Not a lot of tourists make it here.
Signature Dishes - The market is famous for its Michelin Bib Gourmand recognized stalls, including mountain cabbage (Shan Bai Cai) and unique sesame oil chicken.
Huaxi Street Night Market (華西街夜市) AKA Snake Alley
Famous for its traditional medicine shops and exotic cuisine. Traditional dishes like Braised Pork Rice and Broth (Wang's Broth), Gua Bao (Taiwanese Hamburger), and for the adventurous Snake Soup.
Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market (aka PIER 5).
It is a distinct departure from traditional night markets like Shilin or Raohe, offering a more modern, lounge-style vibe right on the Tamsui River.
Instead of cramped aisles and traditional carts, you’ll find vibrant, brightly painted shipping containers converted into mini-kitchens and bars.
It’s very chill. There is a large open-air plaza with tables and chairs, live music on weekends and rooftop decks on some containers where you can sit and watch the sunset over the water.
Arrive around 5 pm to catch the sunset. It is most lively on Friday and Saturday nights.
The food is a mix of international and local. You’ll find Mexican tacos, Korean fried chicken, Japanese skewers, pizza, and burgers.
Drinks - This is the best market for alcohol - many containers specialize in craft beers, colorful cocktails, and sparkling wine.
Tip - Pair this with a visit to Dihua Street (Taipei's oldest street) in the afternoon, as it is right next door. You can walk through the historic herb and tea shops and then end your evening at the container market.
The Guandu Wharf Container Market
Modeled after the popular Dadaocheng Wharf market, it offers a more serene and spacious alternative for those looking to enjoy river views, international street food, and a relaxed social atmosphere.
Features a modern, lounge-style environment with colorful shipping container stalls.
Includes a second-floor viewing platform that offers panoramic views of the Tamsui River and the Guandu Bridge, which is beautifully illuminated at night.
Generally less crowded than the central Dadaocheng market, though it becomes quite lively on weekends with live band performances.
Must-Try Food & Drinks - The market hosts about 14 diverse vendors serving Okinawan-style rice balls, Korean fried chicken, unagi rice, burgers, and Italian pasta.
Craft Beverages - Several containers specialize in local craft beers and specialty coffees, such as the Daka Cafe.
Key Amenities - A large YouBike station is located directly at the wharf, making it easy to arrive by bicycle from Tamsui or the city.
How to get there - The easiest way is to take the MRT Red Line to Guandu Station. From there, it is about a 10-minute walk west or a very quick bike ride to the riverside. During the weekends, there are also occasional ferry services connecting this wharf to Dadaocheng.
Other Riverside Options
Gongguan Waterfront Plaza (Pipe Live Music)
Located near the Gongguan Night Market under the Yongfu Bridge. It features a few container-style bars and a stage for live bands. It’s popular with the university crowd.
While not a container market, it is the ultimate riverside boardwalk. It's further out (at the end of the Red Line) but offers the best river views and traditional snacks like A-Gei (stuffed tofu).
LATE NIGHT EATS - MAP
Getting a late-night bowl of noodle soup is a classic Taipei experience, especially after a long evening. Near Taipei Main Station and the surrounding districts, there are several legendary spots that remain open well into the early morning hours.
A local favorite known for a no-frills, authentic experience. It is famous for being open 24 hours a day and providing great value for money. See Beef Noodles above for more info.☝️ ️
Is one of Taipei's most famous beef noodle shops and is open until 3 am. It has even received Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition in the past.
Atmosphere: Offers a slightly more modern and polished dining environment compared to traditional street stalls.
Signature Move: Don't miss their signature "beef fat" paste—adding just a small scoop to your soup completely transforms the flavor profile.
Taiwan Beef Noodles · Chicken Soup
Is an excellent choice if you're looking for variety, as they serve both hearty beef noodles and lighter chicken soups until 3.30 am.
You can customize your bowl by choosing different cuts of meat or adding specific proteins.
It’s a compact, busy location with stool seating that captures the energy of Taipei's late-night food scene.
Is a fantastic choice if you want to try a variety of side dishes along with your noodles, as it stays open until 4 am.
They specialize in dry noodles and soups paired with a wide array of Lu Wei (braised sides) like tofu, seaweed, and various meats.
It’s a popular haunt for people finishing late shifts or night shifts, giving it a very genuine neighborhood feel.
Best Places to watch the Sunset in Taipei - MAP
Is perhaps the best value for a rooftop view in the city. Located on the 14th floor of the Far Eastern A13 mall, it features a massive outdoor terrace with an unobstructed view of Taipei 101.
Happy Hour - Offers a daily buy-one-get-one-free deal on selected draft beers from 3 pm to 6 pm.
Casual sports bar atmosphere with American-style comfort food like wings and burgers.
Live entertainment including hula hoop shows and a no-frills setting compared to neighboring lounges.
Provides a premium experience on the 48th floor of the Breeze Nanshan building, but it is accessible through a smart weekday deal.
Happy Hour - Their After-Work special runs Tuesday to Friday from 4.30 pm to 6.30 pm, featuring buy-one-get-one offers on selected signature cocktails and beers.
Bonus - Ordering 2 or 4 drinks during this window often includes complimentary snacks like fries or skewers.
Sleek, upscale sky lounge with 360-degree panoramic views of the entire city.
Dadaocheng Wharf Plaza (大稻埕碼頭廣場)
The Dadaocheng Wharf is the river port that historically fueled Dihua Street's prosperity.
In recent years, the wharf has been revitalized into a scenic plaza along the Tamsui River. It is known for its Container Stalls, which are shipping containers converted into unique bars and food kiosks offering a variety of international and local cuisine, beer, and cocktails.
The wharf is renowned as one of the best places in Taipei to watch a breathtaking sunset over the river and the city skyline. It truly comes alive in the late afternoon and evening, transforming into a vibrant, lively spot with music and outdoor seating.
Weekend Live Music - You can often find bands or solo musicians performing on weekends. The market frequently hosts local talent to enhance the chill evening vibe.
Taipei Summer Festival - This major annual event, usually held between July and August, features a consistent schedule of live music performances on a larger stage, often leading up to fireworks shows.
Buskers and Street Performers - Because Taipei uses a registration-based system for street artists, you will frequently see buskers near the plaza and along the riverside cycling paths.
Guandu Wharf Container Market
Watching the sunset at the Guandu Wharf Container Market is a relatively new and serene experience in Taipei, having officially opened in May 2024. Modeled after the popular Dadaocheng version, this spot offers a more relaxed, northern-riverside vibe where the Tamsui River meets the backdrop of Guanyin Mountain.
The experience is centered around the golden hour when the sun dips behind the mountains, casting a shimmering light across the wide expanse of the water.
Atmosphere and Views - Described as chill and less crowded than the downtown wharves. The market features 14 exotic food containers, and many of them have second-story rooftop seating, which is highly recommended for the best unobstructed views of the sunset.
Craft beers and brewed coffees are readily available, making it a popular spot for a sundowner drink.
Live Entertainment - Much like its counterpart at Dadaocheng, the market often features musical performances and light installations that turn on as the sun goes down, transitioning the area into a cozy night time hangout. Information on how to get their in the food section.☝️
Best Places to Drink in Taipei
Tea Beers in Central Taipei
When you head back down toward Taipei Main Station or the city center, you can find world-class tea-laced craft beers at specialized taprooms.
Is located near the historic Dihua Street and is a short walk from Taipei Main Station.
They frequently host the Taiwan Earl Grey Tea Beer (5.2% ABV), which is often described by visitors as addictive.
They specialize in local Taiwanese microbreweries like Ugly Half, which often experiment with tea and local fruits.
Is a beach-themed taproom in Ximending, just one MRT stop from Taipei Main Station.
Taihu is famous for their Mugicha Black Tea Ale. If you like it, you can often find their colorful cans in local 7-Elevens to take home as a souvenir.
They are also known for a Long Island Iced Tea beer which is higher in alcohol (9.99%) and very popular.
Has multiple locations, including one at Huashan 1914 Creative Park (not far from the main station).
They usually have 16–20 beers on tap, often including seasonal tea-infused saisons or honey-tea ales.
The Huashan location has a great outdoor terrace where you can watch street performers while you drink.
Bars and Pubs near Taipei Main Station
The area surrounding the main station has shifted from being purely a transit hub to a district with several hidden gems and craft beer spots.
Taiwan Craft beer house & The 58 Bar
Located a short walk or quick taxi ride away in the Ximending area, this is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to sample local Taiwanese brews in a friendly, pub-like setting.
Specializes in a massive selection of local Taiwanese craft beers on tap and in bottles.
Features a laid-back, British-pub inspired interior.
Offers a menu of hearty bar snacks and Western-style pub food.
This is a more intimate cocktail bar located just north of the station, perfect for a sophisticated drink in a quiet alley setting.
Known for creative, high-quality cocktails with a focus on bitter flavors and unique spirits.
Atmosphere is dim, cozy, and great for small groups or a quiet date.
A convenient choice for those staying right by Taipei Main Station, offering a classic bar experience with a wide variety of drinks.
Features a broad menu including classic cocktails, whiskies and beers.
The vibe is casual and welcoming, often frequented by travelers and locals alike.
Located very close to the station's North exits.
Night Life - MAP
Taipei has a very diverse nightlife scene that caters to different vibes, from high-end mega-clubs and rooftop lounges to gritty underground bars and all-night social hubs.
The city's nightlife is generally concentrated into three main districts.
1. Xinyi District (The Upscale & Clubbing Hub)
This is the Manhattan of Taipei. If you are looking for high-end fashion, world-class rooftop views, and the biggest nightclubs, this is where you go.
Glitzy, dressed-up, and energetic.
Most of the action is centered around the ATT 4 FUN building and the surrounding skyscrapers.
Rooftops - This is where you'll find FRANK and CÉ LA VI.
2. East District / Da’an (Craft Cocktails & Speakeasies)
Located between Xinyi and the Main Station, the East District (Dongqu) is the heart of Taipei’s sophisticated drinking culture.
Trendy, intimate, and artisanal. This area is famous for its hidden speakeasies.
Key Spots - The alleys of Section 4, Zhongxiao East Road.
Cocktail Bars - Look for places like Indulge Experimental Bistro (often on World's Best Bars lists).
Izakayas - This area is packed with Japanese-style gastropubs where locals drink beer and eat yakitori after work.
3. Ximending (The Youth & LGBTQ+ Hub)
Known as the Harajuku of Taipei, this area is vibrant, colorful, and stays awake very late.
Fun, casual, and inclusive.
The Red House - Located right outside the Ximen MRT station, the outdoor courtyard behind the historic Red House is the center of Taipei’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, filled with dozens of small bars with outdoor seating.
Street Culture - You’ll find late-night street food, KTV (Karaoke) palaces, and themed bars here.
The Hidden Nightlife - All Night Eateries
A quintessential Taipei night doesn't end at a bar. It ends at a 24-hour breakfast joint.
Rui’an Soy Milk or Fu Hang Soy Milk are where the club-goers and night owls meet at 4 am for soy milk and deep-fried dough sticks.
SUN MOON LAKE - Ita Thao Village
Avoid Saturday, June 16th to Monday, June 18th which is the Dragon Boat Festival - weekdays are best (as usual)
Encircled by lush mountains in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is the island’s largest and most iconic alpine body of water. Its poetic name reflects its unique geography: the eastern side is round like the sun, while the western side forms a narrow crescent like the moon. Situated at 748 meters, the lake is famous for its misty, turquoise waters and emerald-green surroundings. It is a spiritual home to the indigenous Thao people and a former retreat for Chiang Kai-shek. Today, it is a premier destination for scenic cycling, boat tours, and tasting world-class Assam black tea.
Getting there from Taipei
HSR - Take the High Speed Rail to Taichung Station (~1 hour).
Bus - Go to Exit 5 (1st Floor) and catch the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Sun Moon Lake Route). It takes about 90 minutes and drops you at Shuishe Pier.
Ferry - Hop on the boat to Ita Thao. This is the quintessential Sun Moon Lake experience. The boats run a loop between the three main piers - Shuishe → Xuanguang Temple → Ita Thao → Shuishe.
The Thao Tribe and the White Deer Legend
The area around Sun Moon Lake has been home to the Thao people, one of Taiwan's officially recognized indigenous groups, since ancient times. The Thao are also the smallest of Taiwan's indigenous tribes.
The lake's discovery is linked to a beautiful tribal legend:
An ancestor of the Thao tribe was chasing a white deer through the surrounding mountains.
The deer led the hunting party to the shores of the beautiful lake, which they found to be abundant with fish and shrimp, convincing the tribe to settle there.
Today, the white deer is immortalized as a marble statue on the lake's central Lalu Island.
The Shaping of the Lake
The lake's current size and shape are a result of major infrastructure projects.
Japanese Colonial Era (1895-1945)
The Japanese government dammed the lake's natural drainage for a hydroelectric power project, raising the water level significantly.
This action effectively merged the two originally separate bodies of water (the Sun and Moon lakes) into the single, larger lake we see today.
Post-WWII Development
After the Nationalist government retreated to Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake became a favorite spot of President Chiang Kai-shek. He commissioned the construction of several major landmarks around the lake, including
Ci En Pagoda. Built in 1971 to commemorate his mother.
Lalu Island
The small island in the center of the lake, Lalu Island, is considered sacred ground by the Thao tribe. It has undergone several name changes reflecting different eras.
Under Japanese rule, it was renamed Jade Island.
After the KMT arrived, it was called Kwanghwa Island (meaning glorious China island).
Following the 1999 earthquake - which caused a portion of the island to sink - it was renamed Lalu in the Thao language, a sign of increasing recognition of the indigenous culture.
Ita Thao Village
Ita Thao is arguably the best place to stay at Sun Moon Lake because it serves as the cultural heart of the Thao indigenous people and acts as a central hub for transportation. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the lake’s best street food and the most scenic viewpoints.
Ita Thao (伊達邵) is the main and last remaining Thao settlement situated directly by the lake.
In the Thao language, Thao means human, and Ita Thao means "We are human."
The Village today is a major hub for tourism. The village is known for its lakeside street market, which is lined with souvenir shops, snack stalls, and restaurants offering a mix of indigenous and Han Chinese cuisine.
Thao Cuisine - Try local specialties like Grass Carp (also called President Fish) which can be steamed or deep-fried and savory roast mountain boar (farm-raised) served as sausages or slices.
Millet Wine - The Thao people traditionally use millet to create alcoholic drinks, and bottled millet wine and millet wine slushies are popular treats.
Performances - The Zhulu Market offers a venue to sample Thao dishes and watch traditional singing and dancing performances, including the unique Pestle Music.
The Nine Frogs Stack
At the Shuiwatou viewing platform, you can find a quirky artistic installation of Nine Frogs Stacked. The number of frogs visible above the water indicates the lake's current water level.
The Owl Folklore
Owls are a significant totem for the Thao people, representing the reincarnation of a heartbroken young woman. You will see owl figures and souvenirs in many shops around the village.
The Forbidden Swim
While swimming is generally prohibited in Sun Moon Lake, it is permitted once a year for the massive Swimming Carnival of Sun Moon Lake. This annual 3-km race attracts over 10,000 participants and is recognized as one of the world's major open water swims.
Grandma's Tea Eggs
A famously popular food stall near Xuanguang Temple is known for selling thousands of Grandma's Mushroom Tea Eggs daily.
Best Places to Stay in Sun Moon Lake - Ita Thao Village MAP
Shi Su Wan jia Homestay **½ 7.3 - On Agoda
Excellent location in the heart of everything and 2 minutes from the lakefront, breakfast included
Excellent location 5 minutes walk from the lake and close to the night market and the shopping street, work desk, balcony, free parking, very good buffet breakfast with Asian options included, Tea/coffee maker in rooms
Sun Moon Lake Dream House B&B 9.3 -
Excellent location in amongst all of the action and 2 minutes walk from the lakefront, work desk, free parking, exceptional vegetarian breakfast is included, tour desk
*Owl Hostel 貓頭鷹旅店 9.0 - Capsule - Children 6 & older - Pay on Arrival
Excellent location 3 minutes walk from the lakefront and the bus stop, great rooftop terrace with lake views, shared kitchen & lounge, washing machine, bicycle parking, tour desk, live music and film nights, Tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bidet, outdoor furniture, bike rental, darts
Excellent location in the heart of the town, night market at your door and 2 min from the lake and pier, work desk, terrace, tour desk, free parking, Tea/coffee maker in all rooms, tour desk
sunmoonlake sunflower house 7.5
Great location on the edge of the village close to restaurants and bars and still only 5 minutes walk to the lakefront, close to the night market, bike rental & bus stop
Best Things to See & Do at Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake offers a beautiful mix of stunning natural scenery, cultural sites and exciting activities. Ita Thao Village is an excellent base, as it's a main pier and home to the indigenous Thao people's culture.
Take the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway (Cable Car)
The station is a scenic 10 – 15 minute walk from the Ita Thao pier along a wooden boardwalk.
You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the entire lake. It connects to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.
This is a sprawling 62-hectare theme park that combines a large-scale outdoor museum of indigenous culture with modern amusement rides and European-style gardens.
Indigenous Villages
You can walk through nine reconstructed villages representing various Taiwanese tribes, featuring traditional homes, artifacts, and live performances of traditional dances and rituals.
Amusement Isle -
This section includes high-thrill attractions like the UFO Gyro Drop (Taiwan's tallest free-fall ride) and Maya Adventure, a suspended roller coaster, alongside family-friendly indoor rides in the Aladdin Pavilion.
European Palace Garden
A beautifully manicured garden featuring a gothic clock tower, Roman fountains, and the majestic Ritz Palace, providing a stark contrast to the tribal areas.
Cycle the Lakeside Trail - 30 kms - MAP
Finding an e-bike in Ita Thao is a smart move, as it will make tackling the steep hills on the southern side of the lake much easier. There are a couple of highly-rated options right in the village.
Jiangmeng Electric Bicycle (Sun Moon Lake Ita Thao Camp)
Is a convenient choice located directly on Zhongzheng Road, the main thoroughfare in Ita Thao.
Traveller Bike Rental
Is another excellent local option situated on Riyue Street, tucked slightly away from the busiest pier traffic.
Highly praised for its service and well-maintained e-bikes.
It is important to know that the bike trail is not a single continuous path separated from cars.
The Famous Parts (6 – 8 km) - The sections between Shuishe and Xiangshan (including the over-water path) are dedicated bike-only paths. They are flat, scenic, and very easy.
The Huanhu Road Parts (22 km) - To complete the full circle, you must ride on the Huanhu Highway. You will be sharing the road with cars, scooters, and tour buses. These sections are winding and have significant uphill and downhill slopes.
Most experienced riders and guides recommend the clockwise route for several practical and safety reasons.
Taiwan follows right-hand traffic rules. By riding clockwise, you are always on the lake side of the road. This means -
Unobstructed Views - You don't have to look across oncoming traffic to see the water, the best scenery is directly to your right.
Fewer Crossings - When you want to pull over at a lookout point or attraction, you can simply pull to the side without having to cross a lane of traffic, which is much safer on the narrow, winding sections of the road.
1. Tutingzai Hiking Trail
Just a few minutes south of Ita Thao, this is a short wooden boardwalk. It leads to a small lighthouse that is famous for being the smallest in Taiwan (though it looks more like a post with spotlights).
2. Xuanzang Temple (玄奘寺)
After the trail, you will face the first major uphill climb. This peaceful temple is dedicated to the monk Xuanzang and offers a beautiful, elevated view of the lake.
3. Ci'en Pagoda (慈恩塔)
Continuing uphill, you'll reach the entrance to the pagoda. You park your bike and walk about 570 meters up a forest path. The pagoda is 46 meters tall, and if you climb to the top, you are exactly 1,000 meters above sea level.
4. Xuanguang Temple (玄光寺)
The road then winds back down toward the lake level. This temple is famous for the Ah Ma’s Tea Eggs sold at the pier below.
Grandma's (Ah Ma's) Tea Eggs (阿嬷茶叶蛋)
This stall is a legendary must-visit. The tea eggs are boiled for over six hours in a secret broth that includes local Assam black tea and shiitake mushrooms, giving them a rich, complex flavor. They sell thousands daily.
5. Yuetan (Moon Lake) Section
This is a more rugged and serene section of the cycling path that skirts the southern edge of the lake, leading you toward the dam.
6. Xiangshan Visitor Center
This is the famous concrete architectural landmark on the western shore. It marks the start of the most scenic, flat, and family-friendly part of the bike path.
The Overwater Path - This specific section is about 400 meters long. It is built on pillars driven into the lake bed, meaning the path literally sits on top of the water. On misty mornings or when the water level is high, it feels as though you are gliding across the lake surface.
The over-water bike path is officially called the Waterfront Bikeway and is the most famous part of the Xiangshan Section (the path connecting Shuishe Pier to the Xiangshan Visitor Center).
It is widely considered the crown jewel of the Sun Moon Lake cycling experience and was a key reason CNN named this loop one of the 10 most beautiful bike paths in the world.
As you transition from the over-water path toward the Visitor Center, you will pass
Shuishe Dam - A beautiful wooden walkway where the water is often perfectly still, creating a mirror effect.
Yongjie and Tongxin Bridges - Two elegant white bridges. Yongjie (meaning Eternal) and Tongxin (meaning One Heart) are popular spots for wedding photos because of their romantic design.
Bald Cypress Trees - Near the end of this section (close to the visitor center), there is a grove of cypress trees that turn a brilliant reddish-orange in late autumn and winter.
7. Shuishe Village & Pier
The main tourist hub on the northern shore. This is where most people start their journey, and it's filled with shops and eateries.
As you ride away from Shuishe, the path curves to provide an unobstructed view of Lalu Island (the sacred island of the Thao people) and the Ci'en Pagoda standing tall on the distant mountain peak.
8. Wenwu Temple (文武廟)
Continuing east, you'll encounter a long climb to reach this massive, majestic temple. It is the largest on the lake and faces the water with a grand entrance gate.
9. 天首閣 紅茶．茶酒試驗所 - 先得月 Tea lounge 55
Opposite the Wenwu Temple is a unique establishment that combines the region's famous black tea with specialized cocktails.
Specializes in tea-infused alcoholic beverages, offering a distinct local flavor profile.
Opens in the late afternoon, making it a good transition spot from daytime tea drinking to evening drinks.
And the views are spectacular.
10. Nine Frogs Stack (九蛙疊像)
Just before you complete the loop back to Ita Thao, you’ll find the entrance to the Shuiwatou Trail. This is where you can see the bronze frogs that indicate the lake’s water level.
(Takrahaz) Water Cycling Path - You will also find the other overwater section around the lake. This brand-new starts right next to the 9 Frogs and will take you all the way back to Ita Thao Pier. It was designed to keep cyclists off the busy main road. It features art installations like a Fish-shaped Platform based on Thao indigenous culture.
On the Lake
From the Ita Thao Pier, you can catch the cheap hop on hop off Shuttle Boat that circles the lake.
These boats run a circular route between the three main piers - Shuishe, Xuanguang (Temple), and Ita Thao.
You buy a day pass that allows you to hop on and off as much as you like. Most boats depart every 20 – 30 minutes.
You can often find them online (like on Klook or KKday) for a much lower price.
Operating Hours are roughly 9 am to 5 pm.
For a slower pace, you can rent kayaks and small electric boats that you drive yourself.
Mostly found at Shuishe Pier and Beidan Pier.
You can go into the smaller inlets and get much closer to the shoreline than the big ferries.
FIREFLIES
Early June is a fantastic time to witness the end of the peak firefly season at Sun Moon Lake. While the most intense activity occurs in April and May, you can still find several secret spots where the fireflies are active, especially in the more shaded, humid forest areas around the lake.
Best Viewing Locations
Taumi Eco-Village is widely considered the best overall location for ecological diversity and firefly watching in the region.
The village is a protected ecological site with numerous clean water streams and wetlands, which are the primary breeding grounds for fireflies.
In early June, you can often join guided night tours led by local residents who know exactly which forest trails have the highest concentration of lights.
Lianhua Pond (Lotus Pond) offers a peaceful lakeside setting surrounded by colorful temples, pagodas, and scenic walking paths.
Located near the Toushe Basin this area is a research forest and a primary firefly habitat.
It is less crowded than the main lakeside piers, offering a much darker environment that makes the firefly bioluminescence appear brighter.
The flat, easy walking paths are ideal for a quiet evening stroll, away from the noise of the main tourist districts.
Sun Moon Lake Shuishe Wharf features a dedicated "Firefly Trail" that begins near the back of the Shuishe visitor center.
This trail leads into a more secluded forest patch along the lake's edge, allowing you to see fireflies without needing a scooter for a long drive.
It is a convenient option if you are staying in the Shuishe district and want a quick, accessible viewing spot before dinner.
Viewing Tips for June
The best time for viewing is typically between 7 pm and 8.30 pm. After this, the fireflies often settle into the canopy and become less visible.
Early June thundershowers are common. Fireflies are generally not active during heavy rain, but a light drizzle can actually increase activity due to the humidity.
If you use a flashlight, ensure it is covered with red cellophane. White or blue light can stun and disturb the fireflies.
OVERNIGHT Checheng & Dongpu MAP
Leave your main pack and just take your day pack. Don't forget your bathers and a swimming cap - most public hot springs in Taiwan require both!
Scooter Rentals in Ita Thao
Sun Moon Lake Center Bike Inn
Located near the Sun Moon Lake Youth Activity Center (No. 101, Zhongzheng Rd). While they focus on high-quality Giant bikes, they are one of the larger operations and often have or can arrange motorized scooter rentals.
Local Guesthouse Referrals
Many guesthouses in the Old Street area work with local providers. If the main rental storefronts only show e-bikes, ask your accommodation for "Jīchē chūzū" (motorcycle rental).
Alternate Option
If Ita Thao's selection is limited, you can take the ferry to Shuishe Pier, where there are many more scooter options.
ZOCHA Sun Moon Lake (Shuishe Store)
Located very close to the Shuishe bus terminal, ZOCHA is one of the most modern and foreigner-friendly rental chains in Taiwan.
Why it's good: They often have fixed, transparent pricing and well-maintained 125cc models. You can sometimes book online in advance to guarantee a bike.
Location: Right near the Shuishe Visitor Center.
Motorbike Rental Shops near Shuishe Visitor Center
There are several independent shops clustered around the Shuishe Visitor Center and the 7-Eleven on the main road (Zhongshan Rd).
Look for shops with signs that say 機車出租 (Motorcycle Rental). Many of these shops specialize in petrol bikes specifically for people wanting to ride the New Central Cross-Island Highway (Route 21) toward Dongpu or Alishan.
You will likely need to leave a deposit or a photocopy of your ID/International Driving Permit.
If you are staying in Ita Thao, getting to Shuishe to pick up a bike is very easy.
Take the public ferry from Ita Thao Pier to Shuishe Pier it’s a 15-minute scenic ride.
The Round-the-Lake bus runs frequently between the two piers.
Important Reminder for the Ride to Dongpu
Fuel - Fill your tank completely in Shuili or the Xinyi town center. There are very few petrol stations as you climb higher toward Dongpu.
ID - Ensure you have your International Driving Permit (IDP) with the A or B box stamped. Taiwan is strict about this for petrol-powered 125cc rentals.
Leg 1- Ita Thao → Checheng (~16 km / 30 mins)
Follow the lake road (Route 21A) south, then merge onto Route 131. It’s a winding, beautiful forest descent.
Leg 2 - Checheng → Dongpu (~40 km / 1 hour)
Take Route 16 east to join Route 21 (the New Central Cross-Island Highway) heading south. The road becomes steeper and more mountainous as you approach the jade-green valleys of Dongpu. You can follow the lesser road along the river bank. Stop off at Dreamworks of the Plums on your way down.
Must Visit - The Plum Dream Factory
Located right on Route 21, the Xinyi Township Farmers' Association Plum Dream Factory is the best place to stop for gifts.
It’s a quirky, modern facility themed around plums and indigenous Bunun culture.
* Plum Wine - They are famous for their award-winning spirits. The bottles often have funny names like Seven-Day Drunk. Plum Wine Tasting is usually free at the Dream Factory.
Plum Ice Cream - A refreshing salty-sweet treat for the ride.
Plum Preserves - Bags of dried plums.
You can sample the famous plum wines and snacks at any time.
Rest Stop - It serves as an excellent midpoint break with clean facilities and plenty of parking for scooters.
Day 1 * Morning
Explore the Checheng Wood Village and have lunch by the log pond.
Afternoon - Ride to Dongpu. Check into your hotel and soak in the outdoor hot springs at sunset.
Day 2 * Morning
Hike to the Rainbow Waterfall (starting from the village).
Afternoon - Leisurely ride back to Ita Thao stopping at the Meizilin plum farms, the suspension bridge and the cultural centre on the way.
Safety
Buses - Be careful on the curves of Route 21. Large tour buses often take up a lot of space on the bends.
Checheng is a Wood Village frozen in time
It is a charming, nostalgic mountain village located at the end of the Jiji Railway Line in Nantou County. Often called the most beautiful train station in Taiwan, it’s roughly a 30 - minute drive from Sun Moon Lake and feels like a step back into the Japanese colonial logging era. The village is characterized by its Japanese-style architecture, lakeside trails, and rich industrial history.
Historically, Checheng was a major hub for the timber industry and hydropower construction. Today, it’s a beautifully preserved cultural village filled with Japanese-style wooden architecture and mountain scenery.
The Scent of Wood - You'll notice the distinct aroma of cypress and cedar as you walk through the town, thanks to the many woodcraft shops and the massive timber exhibition hall.
Railway Heritage - Since it’s the terminus of the line, you can walk along the tracks and see vintage locomotives and freight cars on display.
Top Things to Do
The Timber Pond (Ningmu Pond)
Originally used to soak logs to prevent them from cracking, this pond is now a scenic centerpiece. A walking trail circles it, offering great views of the red bald cypress trees (stunning in winter). A great place for lunch.
Housed in a reconstructed timber factory with a unique roof-over-a-roof design, this museum details the town’s logging history.
DIY Woodworking
Several shops allow you to build your own small wooden stools or pencil boxes—a popular activity for families.
Lakeside Stroll
A well-maintained wooden boardwalk encircles the pond, offering views of bald cypress trees that turn vibrant colors in autumn and winter.
Japanese Architecture
Traditional wooden buildings and pavilions jut out over the water, providing excellent photography spots.
Feeding Fish
The pond is now teeming with fish, and it's a popular activity for families to feed them from the boardwalk.
The Rail Turntable
See the old mechanical turntable used to spin train engines around at the end of the line.
Lunch
When you're visiting Checheng Wood Village, the area surrounding the Log Pond is the most scenic spot for a midday meal. You have a choice between a high-end tea house with floor-to-ceiling windows or the local specialty, the Wooden Bucket Bento.
Hidden Tea STEAM
This is the most iconic dining spot in the village, located in a beautifully restored Japanese-style building that was once the materials office for the local wood industry. It sits directly on the edge of the Log Pond, offering an unbeatable view of the water and the surrounding bald cypress trees.
It features a serene, minimalist Japanese aesthetic with massive glass windows on three sides, making it feel as if you are floating on the lake.
Signature Dishes - They specialize in high-quality Nantou mountain teas and simple set meals like Dongpo Pork or Grilled Mackerel.
Cedar Tea House
Also known as the Wooden Tea House, this restaurant is located right next to the Log Pond and is the most famous place to try the town's most popular meal - the Wooden Bucket Bento.
Atmosphere - The interior is filled with the scent of cypress and decorated with traditional woodworking tools, reflecting the village's heritage.
The Experience - When you order a Wooden Bucket Bento, your meal (usually a choice of chicken drumstick, pork chop, fish, pork rib, chicken braised egg and seasonal vegetables over rice and pickles) is served inside a handcrafted wooden bucket.
Souvenir - The best part is that you get to keep the wooden bucket! There is a station where you can use a hot iron brand to stamp a souvenir logo onto your bucket before you leave.
Checheng Little Restaurant
For a more casual experience away from the direct pond-side crowds, this spot on the village's Old Street is highly recommended by locals for a more authentic and affordable taste of the region.
Atmosphere - A traditional, bustling local eatery with a friendly, nostalgic vibe.
Highlights - They serve a very highly-rated version of the wooden bucket bento and are known for their generous portions of traditional Taiwanese side dishes like braised bamboo shoots and pickled vegetables.
Buy a bottle of Shuili Plum Wine in Checheng on your way, it’s the perfect drink to enjoy on your hotel balcony overlooking the mountains. or when you stop in at the Plum Dream Factory on the way through.
Dongpu
STAY
*Sarisun Resort Hotel 7.1 - Pay on Arrival
Great location in town, Rooftop Spa, restaurant, buffet breakfast included, free parking, 24 hour desk, work desk
See & Do
If you get here early enough and feel like a hike before you soak your bones or are looking for some excersise in the morning there are the -
Rainbow Falls (Caihong Waterfall)
A popular, short, but surprisingly strenuous hike. It is a steep ascent that rewards you with views of a 40 metre waterfall which, on sunny days (typically before noon), creates the rainbow that gives the falls its name.
The trail is a mix of paved roads and steep stairs. While the distance isn't long, the climb is relentless.
Approximately 40 – 60 minutes for the ascent (one way).
Difficulty - Moderate. It is sharp and short - be prepared for a lot of steps and a significant elevation gain over a small distance.
Distance - About 1.6km round trip if you park at the highest possible point, or roughly 3km round trip if walking from the center of Dongpu village.
Key Landmarks Along the Way
Lover's Gorge (Qingren Gu) - About halfway up, you'll pass through a shaded area with smaller cascades.
Rainbow Suspension Bridge - A high, red bridge that offers excellent views of the valley and the waterfall in the distance.
Rainbow Waterfall - The trail ends at a viewing platform right at the base of the sheer 40-metre plunge.
The Rainbow Timing - To see the rainbow in the mist, aim to be at the falls between 10 am and 1 pm. Once the sun moves behind the mountain in the afternoon, the effect disappears.
The path is well-maintained with cement steps, but can be slippery when wet. Wear shoes with good grip.
During the dry season (winter), the water volume can decrease significantly. It is most impressive after the summer rains.
Where to Eat & Drink in Dongpu
Bunun Tribal Kitchen
Look for small eateries along the main street (Dongpu Street) serving Wild Boar, Stone-Grilled Meat, and Mountain Cabbage. The food is incredibly fresh and seasoned with local spices like Magao (mountain pepper).
Pub/Evening Recommendation
Tilun Hotel Bar/Lounge at the Dongpu Tilun Hot Spring Hotel is the most established hub. They usually have a lounge area where you can get a Taiwan Beer or local plum wine after a soak.
Many of the hot spring hotels in the Dongpu mountain village allow guests to use their facilities well into the night. Since the area is perched at an elevation of about 1,120 meters, soaking in the evenings is a popular way to enjoy the crisp mountain air and starry views after a day of hiking near Jade Mountain.
Is one of the most prominent options in the heart of the village, offering both indoor and outdoor bathing experiences.
Features a large outdoor hot spring pool on the second floor that provides panoramic mountain views.
Offers multiple indoor spa facilities, including saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs.
Provides evening activities for guests, such as traditional glutinous rice dumpling (mochi) DIY sessions.
Stargazing
Because Dongpu is high in the mountains and has very little light pollution, the nightlife is really about looking at the stars while sitting in a 40°C pool.
There is a 7-Eleven or FamilyMart in the main village area which acts as the local social hub late at night for snacks and drinks.
On your way back
Where to Stop (The Big Three)
There are three main plum areas in Xinyi, all within a short ride of each other. Most farms are free to enter, but some may charge a small scooter parking fee. You could have lunch at one of these places.
The Scenic Loop Route
Head north from Dongpu and turn left onto Route 60 toward Wusonglun. Follow this narrow mountain road as it winds through Fengguidou and Niuchoukeng. The road eventually loops back down to meet the main road near the town of Shuili, from where it is an easy ride back to Sun Moon Lake.
Fengguidou (風櫃斗)
The most famous spot. The trees here are over 30 years old with twisted, black-skinned branches that look like traditional ink paintings.
Wusonglun (烏松崙)
Known for plum blossoms above, yellow canola below. Many farms here plant yellow wildflowers under the white plum trees, creating a stunning color contrast. It also has many forest cafes where you can drink tea under the blossoms.
Niuchoukeng (牛稠坑)
Home to the Liujia Plum Garden. This spot is more like a manicured park with rolling green lawns—perfect if you want to sit on the grass for a bit.
The Pinglai Liuliguang Suspension Bridge (aka the Xinyi Glass Bridge)
Is a stunning scenic attraction located in Xinyi Township. It is a favorite stop for travelers riding between Sun Moon Lake and Dongpu because it offers a mix of adrenaline and beautiful valley views.
The Liuliguang in the name translates to Glass Light, referring to the bridge's transparent panels.
The Glass Floor - Portions of the bridge floor are made of reinforced glass, allowing you to look straight down into the creek about 50 meters below. It’s a thrilling experience that makes you feel like you are walking on air.
The Views - As you cross the 88-meter-long bridge, you have a panoramic view of the rugged Fude Creek gorge and the surrounding mountains.
The Lover's Theme: The bridge is part of a larger park area often associated with romance, featuring local indigenous motifs and scenic lookout points.
Opening Hours - Usually 8 am to 4 pm (closed on Wednesdays). It's best to visit in the morning to avoid the afternoon mountain mists. there is a small entrance fee.
The Trail - To reach the bridge, there is a moderate uphill walk from the parking area. The entire loop, including the bridge and some nearby rock formations (like the Giant Stone and One Thread of Sky), takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
The Dharma Luan Cultural Troupe
(often referred to as the Daguolan or Takuvulan Cultural Troupe) is a renowned indigenous performance group based in the Dongpu area of Xinyi Township. They are members of the Bunun tribe, one of Taiwan’s major indigenous groups, and they serve as the primary guardians of the region's ancient musical traditions.
The Magic of Pasibutbut (Eight-Part Polyphonic Singing)
The troupe is most famous for performing the Pasibutbut, a unique form of choral singing that has fascinated musicologists worldwide.
The Sound - It is a complex, harmony-rich chant where the singers gradually rise in pitch and volume. It sounds almost like an organic, humming organ.
The Purpose - Traditionally, this was a prayer for a bountiful millet harvest. The Bunun believe that if the harmony is perfect and resonant, the spirits will be pleased and grant a good crop.
A Living Treasure - This singing style is recognized as a significant cultural heritage of Taiwan and is one of the few places in the world where such complex natural vocal polyphony exists.
What to Expect at a Performance
If you visit Dongpu, seeing them perform is a powerful way to connect with the local mountain culture.
Traditional Dress - Members perform in authentic Bunun attire - traditionally made from deerskin or woven cloth with intricate geometric patterns.
Ritual Dances - Beyond the singing, they demonstrate traditional dances, hunting rituals, and the Malastapang (a ritual where warriors boast of their achievements).
Location
They often perform at the Daguolan (Dalun) Resort or are invited to the Hotel Tilun Dongpu Spa for special evening events.
Interactive Sessions - Many of their performances are interactive, they often invite guests to join in a simple circle dance or taste traditional Millet Wine.
The Bunun are known as the People of the High Mountains. Their culture is deeply tied to the peaks you'll be riding through. The Dharma Luan troupe doesn't just perform - they are often local farmers and community leaders who see this as a way to keep their language and history alive for the next generation.
From here it's a short half hour ride back to Ita Thao
What and Where to Eat in Sun Moon Lake - MAP
Local Specialties
These dishes are unique to the Sun Moon Lake area, blending local Taiwanese and Thao indigenous flavors.
President Fish (總統魚)
The most famous local dish. This is actually the local Redfin Culter Fish (Aruzay) that was highly praised by the late President Chiang Kai-shek, earning its regal nickname. It has delicate, tender meat and is best enjoyed steamed to appreciate its fresh flavor, though it is also served fried.
Thao Style Wild Boar Sausage (山豬肉香腸)
A signature Thao indigenous dish. The mountain boar sausage is rich, savory, and often grilled on a stick and served with garlic.
Bamboo-Tube Rice (竹筒飯)
Sticky rice mixed with savory ingredients (sometimes pork or mushrooms) and steamed inside a piece of bamboo. You must peel away the bamboo lining to eat it, which imparts a wonderful, subtle aroma and flavor.
Sun Moon Lake Black Tea (日月潭紅茶)
The area is renowned for its tea, especially the Ruby Black Tea (Hong Yu, or Taiwan Tea No. 18). It has a unique, minty, and cinnamon-like aroma. You can enjoy it hot, cold, or even as an ice cream flavor.
Crispy Lake Shrimp & Fish
Small Qili fish (Saw Belly Fish) and lake shrimp are often deep-fried until crunchy, seasoned with salt and pepper, and eaten whole—perfect for snacking with a local beer.
Best Street Food & Restaurants
Ita Thao is the undisputed food hub of Sun Moon Lake.
🍢The Food Street
The main street Yiyong Street a Lively Food and Shopping Street that is most bustling from mid-morning to early evening around 6 pm. Most stalls start to close down after 7 pm, and the area is quiet by 9 pm.
Must-Try Street Snacks
Rice-Stuffed Chicken Wings
A creation where the bone is removed and the wing is stuffed with savory sticky rice and various fillings, then roasted.
Nian Ji's Handmade Cabbage Buns
Large, deep-fried buns filled with cabbage, local mushrooms, and glass noodles. A satisfying and popular vegetarian-friendly option.
Dong Dong Gua Bao
A creative twist on the Taiwanese Hamburger (Gua Bao). They uniquely use Assam tea to marinate the tofu skin wrapped around the juicy pork belly.
Black Tea Ice Cream / Dessert
Look for stalls offering soft-serve ice cream or desserts infused with the local Ruby #18 Black Tea flavor. Tea18 DewTea House is highly rated for its Ruby 18 ice cream with warm boba and lemon jelly.
🍽️ Best Restaurants
Thao Tribal Chief Yuan's Cuisine (邵族山長老烤肉)
Located on the old street, this restaurant serves traditional Thao indigenous dishes. It's highly recommended for their Thao Flavor Set Meal and their premium President Fish Set.
Lu Sih An (麓司岸餐坊)
Known for its local aboriginal cuisine and award-winning chef. A mid-range dining experience that features specialties like the Crispy Fried Sharpbelly Fish and unique Thao stir-fries.
Shuishe Village Area
Sun Moon Restaurant (日月餐坊)
A highly popular restaurant in the Shuishe area. It's known for combining Thao tribal flavors with traditional Taiwanese cuisine, using seasonal local ingredients. Reservations are highly recommended.
Ah Feng's Restaurant (阿豐師餐廳)
A multi-award-winning spot that focuses on local, high-quality ingredients and fresh daily catches from the Nantou area. It's often praised for its innovative take on classic Taiwanese dishes.
Best Places to watch the Sun-rise/set in Sun Moon Lake
Early Morning
Since you are staying in the village, head to the pier at 6.30 am. The day-trippers from Taipei won't arrive for hours, the water is usually like glass and the mist over the mountains is stunning. It is the only time the lake feels truly peaceful.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) or Kayaking
For an active sunset, there are several operators in Ita Thao that offer sunset SUP and kayak tours. You get to be right on the water level as the sun dips behind the mountains. This is arguably the most peaceful way to see the sunset.
Best Shoreline Spots for Sunset
Yidashao Wharf (伊達邵碼頭)
The main pier in Ita Thao Village provides views facing west across the lake, making it a convenient spot to watch the sunset if you are already planning to stay or eat in the village.
The Sun Moon Lake Ropeway Station (Ita Thao side)
There is a large wooden platform in front of the station that looks directly west across the water.
Xiangshan Visitor Center
The architecture acts as a frame for the sunset.
Shuishe Dam
This is a flat, grassy area on the cycling path that has a totally unobstructed view of the sun setting over the mountains.
Drinking and Night Life
Ita Thao Village offers a pleasant, culturally rich evening experience, but it is not known for a bustling or late-night party scene with many bars or nightclubs.
The nightlife is generally centered around its famous street food market and its indigenous culture, with most activity winding down by the early evening.
Cultural Shows & Live Music
Traditional Performances
The village has the Zhulu Market and a stage near the Ita Thao Wharf where you can often see free traditional song and dance performances by the Thao Tribe Traditional Folk Performance Team. While many of the scheduled performances are during the day (especially on weekends), they represent the village's primary cultural evening activity.
Live Entertainment
There is sometimes live music entertainment on the wharf in the evenings. This typically consists of local musicians or smaller acts, providing a relaxing lakeside atmosphere rather than a loud party environment.
Bars
There are several bars in the area ranging from cozy local pubs to more refined lounges.
蓮LienPUB
Is a popular local spot right in the heart of the village, known for its friendly service and laid-back atmosphere.
Offers a wide selection of drinks in a casual setting.
A convenient choice for those staying in Ita Thao who want a drink within easy walking distance.
月光酒吧 Luna Lounge
Is another great option located very close to the Ita Thao pier, offering a nice place to relax by the water.
Features a relaxed environment perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Strategically located near the main pedestrian areas of the village.
Taichung City - "Taiwan Center" (臺中)
Taichung is a dynamic and fascinating city that has transformed from a historic colonial center into Taiwan's third-largest metropolis, famous for its arts, café culture, and food innovation.
Transport
To get from Ita Thao to Taichung, you generally need to make a short transfer since there are no direct public buses from Ita Thao Pier all the way to Taichung.
Ferry & Express Bus
This is typically the fastest and most scenic way for travelers.
Take a ferry from Ita Thao Pier to Shuishe Pier.
Duration ~ 15 minutes.
Frequency - Every 15 – 30 minutes (9 am – 5 pm).OR - you could take the Around-the-Lake Bus 6669 from the Ita Thao bus stop to the Shuishe Visitor Center.
Walk from Shuishe Pier to the Shuishe Visitor Center (2 - minute walk) and board the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle (Bus 6670).
Destination - Taichung HSR Station or Taichung Gancheng Station (near the TRA Train Station).
Duration ~90 minutes to HSR Station, ~120 minutes to downtown Taichung.
Taxi or Private Transfer
Duration ~ 60 minutes.
This is a good option if you are traveling in a group.
To get from Taichung Railway Station to Xitun you could catch a taxi, Uber or
Take a local train from Taichung Station to Songzhu Station (~8 mins).
MRT - Transfer to the Green Line MRT (Songzhu Station) and head toward Taichung City Hall or Wenxin Yinghua (~10 – 12 mins).
Best Ways of Getting Around Taichung
There are several MRT stations along the Green Line that directly serve or sit right on the border of the Xitun District. These stations run along Wenxin Road, which acts as a major artery for the area.
Wenxin Yinghua MRT Station is the closest.
Taichung has both an extensive bike-share system and several electric scooter-sharing platforms.
YouBike 2.0 (Bicycles) - Share Map
This is the most common and convenient way to get around Taichung. The bikes are white and yellow and are found at docks near every major attraction, MRT station, and park.
How to Use - Download the YouBike 2.0 app. You can register using an email and a foreign credit card (no local SIM card required for "Single Rental" mode).
EasyCard - If you have an EasyCard, you can register it on the app or at a kiosk, though this usually requires a local phone number. Once registered, you just tap the card on the bike's screen to unlock.
E-Bikes (YouBike 2.0E) - Taichung also has electric-assist bikes (look for the orange lightning bolt). These are great for the city’s slight inclines but cost double the price of a standard bike.
Electric Scooter Share (Mopeds)
Taichung has several free-floating electric scooter systems. You find them on the street, unlock them with an app, and park them in any legal public parking spot when finished.
Major Providers - GoShare (blue scooters), WeMo (white/green), and iRent (white/blue).
Requirements - As a foreigner, these are harder to use. You generally need
A valid International Driving Permit (IDP).
To upload a photo of your passport and license to the app for verification (which can take 24–48 hours).
Safety & Rules
In Taichung, you are generally allowed to ride bicycles on the footpath only where there is a designated bike logo. Otherwise, stick to the edge of the road or bike lanes.
Helmets are mandatory for scooters but not strictly enforced/required for public bicycles.
Parking - For YouBikes, you must return them to an official dock. For shared scooters, you must park them in a designated white-lined scooter parking box on the street.
Uber (Best for Travelers)
Uber is very active in Taichung and is usually the easiest choice for foreigners.
The interface is in English, you can link your international credit card and you can enter your destination in the app to avoid language barriers.
You will often see an option for "Uber Taxi." This matches you with a licensed local yellow taxi but lets you pay through the Uber app.
A typical ride across town (e.g., from the Railway Station to Xitun) will cost around $12–$18 AUD (NT$250–$350).
Tip
In Taichung hailing a yellow taxi on the street is very safe and they all use meters. However, they may not speak English and many prefer cash. If you do this, have your destination written in Traditional Chinese or pinned on Google Maps to show the driver.
History
Taichung’s history is a fascinating transition from a marshy basin to a modern industrial hub. Originally inhabited by the Babuza people, the area remained largely agricultural until the late 19th century.
In 1887, the Qing Dynasty briefly designated it as the capital of Taiwan Province, though the seat was soon moved to Taipei.
The city’s modern blueprint was drafted during the Japanese colonial period (1895–1945). Japanese planners envisioned a "Kyoto of Taiwan," implementing a grid system and diverting rivers to manage flooding. They established Taichung Park in 1903 and built the iconic Taichung Railway Station, which cemented the city's role as a vital link between northern and southern Taiwan.
Post-WWII, under the Kuomintang (KMT), Taichung evolved into an educational and economic center. The city became famous for its small-to-medium enterprises, particularly in tool manufacturing and bicycle production. In 2010, the original city merged with Taichung County to form the current special municipality.
Today, it is Taiwan’s second-most populous city, balancing its industrial roots with a reputation for lifestyle culture—notably as the birthplace of bubble tea. And Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd., the world's largest bicycle manufacturer, was founded in Taichung in 1972 and is a point of local pride.
Best Places to Stay in Taichung City - Xitun District - MAP
Near Fengjia Night Market
Innk **** 8.7 - Pay on Arrival
Best location in amongst it all and very close to the night market, free washer / dryer on site, terrace, shared lounge, business centre, desk, 24 hour desk
Green Hotel - Fengjia *** 8.4 - Pay on Arrival
Excellent location minutes from the night market, 24 hour laundromat, 24 hour desk, terrace
逢甲All Night龍 7.9 - Pay on Arrival
Great location next to restaurants and only 5 minutes walk to the night market, cable and satelite tv
Best Things to See & Do in Taichung City
Day trip to Lukang - Weekdays - MAP
Lukang (鹿港), meaning Deer Port, was once one of the most powerful settlements in Taiwan, second only to Tainan during its 18th and 19th-century golden age. Its name originates from the thriving deerskin and venison trade that existed during the Dutch colonial period.
Lukang’s zenith was between 1785 and 1845, when it flourished as Taiwan's busiest trading port, facilitating immense commerce between the island and the Chinese mainland. Wealthy merchants endowed magnificent cultural institutions, including the exquisite Longshan Temple and the revered Tianhou Temple. This prosperity established Lukang as a major cultural and literary center.
The town’s decline began in the mid-19th century when its harbor silted up, choking off trade. Crucially, residents resisted the construction of modern railroads, causing Lukang to be bypassed by industrialization and urban development that transformed cities like Taipei and Taichung.
Ironically, this lack of modernization preserved its character. Unlike other cities that demolished historical buildings, Lukang retained its centuries-old temples, red-brick lanes, and traditional Minnan-style architecture.
Today, it is celebrated as a living museum and Taiwan’s most complete repository of Qing Dynasty heritage.
How to Get from Taichung to Lukang
Take the Taiwan Bus (彰化客運) Line 9018 from Chao Ma (Taiwan Blvd) which is 1 km and a 15 min walk from INNK Hotel. This is a bus stop and not the Chao Ma Bus Station around the corner on Chao Ma Road. This is the most straightforward option and takes ~1 hour 20 minutes.
Changhua County Lugang Township Office is another major stop on the 9018 route just before reaching the final station.
This stop is even closer to the southern entrance of Lukang Old Street typically a 3 to 5-minute walk.
Travelers often use this stop if they want to begin their tour near the Lukang Artist Village or the historic alleys.
Lukang Station serves as the final terminal for the 9018 route. This station is centrally located and is the most common arrival point for visitors.
Located approximately 400 to 500 meters from the heart of the Old Street.
The walk is flat and takes about 5 to 7 minutes through typical town streets.
Getting Back
Last Bus Time 9.30 pm from Lukang Station
Buses typically run every 30 to 60 minutes throughout the day.
Important Tips for the Return Trip
It is highly recommended to arrive at the Lukang Station at least 10 – 15 minutes before the scheduled departure.
Use the Taiwan Bus iBus website or a local transit app to confirm the exact real-time arrival, as schedules can occasionally shift due to traffic or local events.
If you miss the last 9018, you can sometimes take a local bus to Changhua Train Station and catch a train back to Taichung, as trains run slightly later than the express bus.
Best things to see and do in Lukang
Historic Temples
Is one of the most significant spiritual sites in town, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. It is a masterpiece of temple architecture, featuring exquisite wood carvings and stone sculptures.
Houses a rare black-faced Mazu statue brought from Fujian in the late 17th century.
Known for its bustling atmosphere, surrounded by vendors selling local snacks like ox-tongue biscuits.
Is often called the "Forbidden City of Taiwan" due to its grand layout and meticulous preservation of Fujianese architecture.
Features a famous caisson ceiling (spider web ceiling) in its opera stage, built without a single nail.
Offers a serene, contemplative atmosphere compared to the more crowded Mazu Temple.
Cultural & Artistic Landmarks
Lukang Old Street consists of red-tiled lanes lined with traditional courtyard houses, many of which have been converted into shops selling local crafts and delicacies.
Ideal for exploring traditional snacks like oyster omelets and phoenix eye cakes.
Showcases "Half-Sided Wells," where wealthy residents shared their water with neighbors, symbolizing the town's community spirit.
Is housed in the Grand Mansion, a stunning 1919 building that blends Baroque and traditional Chinese styles.
Displays over 6,000 artifacts including vintage furniture, musical instruments, and religious items.
Provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of the wealthy Gu family during the early 20th century.
Is a creative hub located in refurbished Japanese-era dormitories where local artisans demonstrate traditional crafts like lantern making and calligraphy.
Visitors can participate in DIY workshops and interact directly with the artists.
The area is decorated with colorful murals and public art installations.
Unique Alleys & Modern Attractions
Mo Ru Lane (Gentlemen Alley) is a famous narrow passage, measuring only 70cm at its tightest point. Its humorous name (literally Breast-Touching Lane) refers to the inevitability of brushing against someone when passing through.
It is a popular spot for quirky photography due to its high, narrow red-brick walls.
Another nearby alley, Jiuqu Lane (Nine Turns Lane), was designed with multiple bends to block the cold winter winds and deter pirates.
Taiwan Glass Gallery and the adjacent Taiwan Husheng Temple offer a modern contrast to the old town. The Husheng Temple is the world's only temple built entirely of glass.
The glass temple is particularly beautiful at night when it is illuminated by internal LED lights.
The gallery features a Glass Tunnel and displays intricate glass art reflecting Taiwanese culture.
Unique Dishes, Old Restaurants and Cafes
Lukang's culinary scene is a highlight, blending centuries-old traditions with local coastal ingredients.
Must-Try Unique Dishes
Traditional Snacks
Since Lukang is a coastal town, the oyster omelets (O-a-chian) and deep-fried oyster balls (O-te) near the Tianhou Temple are legendary. Also famous are their unique meat buns.
Flour Tea (Mian Cha, 麵茶)
This is Lukang’s most iconic drink. It is a thick, toasted wheat flour porridge often flavored with sesame, almond, or shallots. Traditional toppings include white sesame and sugar, but modern versions include dried fruit and boba. Look for traditional shops along the Old Street.
Where to try - Yi Gu-zhai Cultural Tea House (怡古齋人文茶館) is the most famous spot. They serve it hot or cold (the cold version with shaved ice is a modern favorite).
Phoenix Eye Cakes (鳳眼糕)
These powdery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are shaped like eyes and were historically a treat for the scholarly elite.
Where to try - Chen Yu-zhen Bakery (鄭玉珍餅舖), established in 1877, is a historic staple right on the Old Street. For a more grand experience, visit Yu Jen Jai (玉珍齋) located just outside the old street area (established 1877).
Ox-Tongue Biscuits (Niushitai / 牛舌餅)
These are not savory! Lukang's version is a thin, oval-shaped, slightly sweet biscuit, crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. They are excellent as a souvenir.
Crystal Dumplings (水晶餃)
Translucent, slightly chewy dumplings, usually stuffed with savory pork and bamboo shoots. A famous local spot is Hanbin Crystal Dumplings (漢彬水晶餃).
Mianxian Hu (Vermicelli Soup / 麵線糊)
A thick, savory soup with thin vermicelli and pork, usually eaten for breakfast or a hearty snack.
Where to try - Wang Wang Mianxian Hu (王罔麵線糊) or Ah-Zhang’s Handmade Vermicelli Soup.
Cured Gray Mullet Roe (Wuyuzi, 烏魚子)
A high-end delicacy associated with Lukang due to its history as a major fishing port. This dried, salted fish roe is often thinly sliced and seared, eaten as a special treat or appetizer.
Special Old Tea Rooms and Cafes
While Lukang is famous for its history, you can find charming spots that integrate the old architecture with modern tastes
Bonjour Paris (隔壁老奶奶的法式甜點)
Located right next to the famous 8th-generation A-Zhen Dumpling shop. The owner's daughter opened this French coffee shop, offering a unique blend of traditional Lukang and European cafe culture.
Situated in a beautifully preserved, traditional old house on Putou Street (part of the Old Street), this cafe allows you to enjoy coffee and waffles in an authentic, nostalgic setting with a loft you can explore.
Yu Jen Jai (玉珍齋)
While technically a famous bakery (the oldest in Lukang, over a century old), they offer traditional Taiwanese pastries and a spot to enjoy them with tea.
Yi Gu-zhai Cultural Tea House (怡古齋人文茶館)
Located on Putou Street, this is arguably the most atmospheric tea shop. It is housed in a traditional long-shaped building and is run by a family of dough-figurine masters. It feels very old world with its wooden furniture and antiques.
Yanzhong Flour Tea (彥仲麵茶)
Another highly regarded traditional shop. They are known for their beautiful hand-painted lanterns and a very nostalgic interior where you can sit and enjoy roasted wheat tea.
Houche Lane Teahouse
If you wander into Houche Lane (just one street over from the main tourist drag), you can find renovated old houses that have been converted into quiet tea spaces. One notable project by local historian George Hsu involved turning an old drinking establishment into a refined teahouse to preserve the building's architecture.
Unique Souvenirs
Lukang excels in traditional craftsmanship and confections
Traditional Pastries
Ox-Tongue Biscuits and Phoenix Eye Cake are the most popular edible souvenirs. Also look for Yu Jen Jai's Mung Bean Cakes (綠豆糕) and butter pastries.
Mian Cha (Flour Tea) Powder
You can buy the pre-mixed powder to prepare the unique drink at home.
Local Crafts
The Sweet Osmanthus Lane Art Village is the best place to find unique handmade art, wooden carvings, and local handicrafts from the resident artisans.
People Watching with a drink
In Lukang Old Street, you won't find traditional Western-style bars with street-side seating, but you can enjoy a beer in a few specific ways.
Public Drinking is Legal and Common
You can buy a cold Taiwan Beer or a craft beer from any 7-Eleven or Family Mart (there are several near the Lukang Tianhou Temple) and drink it while you walk or sit on a bench.
The Lukang Arts and Culture Center or the Osmanthus Alley Art Village have public benches and open spaces where it is perfectly acceptable to sit and have a quiet drink.
Local Eateries (Re Chao)
Many local seafood and stir-fry spots (known as Re Chao) near the Minsheng Road entrance have tables that spill out toward the front.
These are the most authentic places to have a beer. You grab a bottle from the fridge yourself, and they'll give you small glass cups. It’s a very local, lively atmosphere.
Craft Beer Options
The Huo Xing Youth Start-up Hub (a renovated police dormitory complex) occasionally has pop-up vendors or small shops selling local craft beers. These spaces usually have outdoor seating in a courtyard setting. It is a 5 minute walk from the Old Street.
Union House Lukang (The Diner)
A boutique hotel near the Old Street has an area called The Diner. As the sun goes down, it transforms into a relaxed bar setting. They have a lovely outdoor garden area where you can sit and have a beer or a glass of wine away from the crowded alleys. It is a 10 minute walk from the Old Street and 20 minutes back to your bus stop.
♨️Guguan 1N 谷關溫泉 MAP Mon - Fri
“The location was exotic in a very small valley with precipitously steep mountain sides on both sides. Guguan is a jewel to be experienced."
Don't forget your bathers and a swimming cap - most public hot springs in Taiwan require both!
Hire a motorbike and ride an hour and a half out to Guguan a very famous and beautiful hot spring area. It is nestled in the mountains of the Heping District of Taichung. It is the most renowned hot spring area in the region and was originally discovered and developed during the Japanese colonial era. It is famous for its natural mountain setting and water quality.
Water Type - Carbonic Acid Spring.
Benefits - The water is slightly alkaline, clear and is often nicknamed the Hot Spring for the Heart because the relatively mild temperature is said to be good for circulation.
The Vibe - The area offers a secluded, mountainous retreat with hotels and resorts providing various indoor and outdoor spa facilities. You can choose from luxurious resort experiences to public hot spring parks.
Scooter Rental for Foreigners
To legally rent a scooter (petrol or electric like Gogoro) in Taichung, you must provide -
Passport
Valid Driver's License from your home country.
International Driving Permit (IDP): * Crucial: Your IDP must have the "A" box (Motorcycle) stamped or ticked. If you only have a car license (Box B), most shops in Taichung will refuse to rent you a standard scooter (100cc–125cc).
Taiwan specifically recognizes IDPs issued under the 1949 or 1968 Geneva Conventions.
Where to Rent - MAP
Most rental shops are concentrated around the major transport hubs. Close to Xitun Dustrict are -
Cheung Shun Motorcycle Rental 翔順機車出租/託運 台中朝馬店 甲租乙還
No. 933號, Section 2, Liming Rd, Xitun District, Taichung City, Taiwan 407
18 minute walk from INNK Hotel
Motorcycle rental agency 中興租車-機車出租/台中租機車/朝馬租機車/甲租乙還
No. 620號, Taiwan Blvd Sec 3, Xitun District, Taichung City, Taiwan 407
14 minute walk from the INNK Hotel
Chaoma Bus Station - If you arrive by long-distance bus, there are several outlets nearby on Taiwan Boulevard - See MAP
OR
Taichung Railway Station (TR) - Several shops are located right outside the Back Station (East Exit). ZOCHA is a highly-rated option here that is known for being foreigner-friendly and offering electric Gogoros.
Taichung High Speed Rail (HSR) Station - Shops like Old Alley Sukeda are located a short walk from the station.
Security Deposit
Some shops require a credit card authorization or a cash deposit to cover potential traffic fines, which is usually released after 2 months.
Important Tips
Don't hand over your actual Passport - Reliable shops will take a photocopy but should not keep your physical passport. This applies in all countries.
Take Photos - Always take photos/video of the scooter’s condition (scratches, tires) before leaving the shop. You should do this anytime you rent anything.
Fuel/Charging - Most petrol scooters are rented with a nearly empty tank; you are expected to fill it up immediately at a nearby CPC or PetroChina station. For Gogoros, you simply swap batteries at GoStations (battery swap is usually included in the rental price or a small fee).
Insurance - Basic compulsory insurance is usually included, but it only covers third-party injuries. You may want to ask about "Third Party Liability" or "Collision" insurance for better coverage.
The Law - Helmets are mandatory for both driver and passenger. Taichung police are strict about this and about turning left (you must often use the "hook turn" or two-stage left turn box).
🚗 OR Rent a car if you don't have a motorbike licence.
ENROUTE - MAP
You need to make your way east and get on to the 129. This will become the 93, then the 95, the 95-1(or Fengbu Industry Rd) - cross the Longan Bridge, turn right on Hwy 8 and follow it along the river all the way to your destination.
As you go down the 93 aka 159 Xiezhong St you will see a gokart track on your left. A little further along past the 7-11 on the righht hand side is the A-Liang Mushroom Garden 阿亮香菇園 where you can pick your own mushrooms or try mushroom-flavored ice cream and sausages.
A little further along and also to your right you will see a castle turn off to your right. This is Xinshe Castle 新社莊園 a striking European-style manor located in the Xinshe District. It boasts medieval-inspired architecture, complete with stone towers and a large lake. There are picturesque walking paths through meticulously landscaped gardens and waterfalls. And there is an on-site restaurant and tea house for a relaxing break.
Best Places to Stay in Guguan - all have free parking - MAP
Ming Zhi Hot Spring Hotel Building A 7.6 -
Great location 10 minutes walk from the main street and it has it's own very scenic street, good breakfast included, restaurant, bath, 24 hour desk, Fitness/spa locker rooms, Foot bath, Spa lounge/relaxation area, Steam room, Spa facilities, Sun umbrellas, Sun loungers or beach chairs, Open-air bath, Hot spring bath
谷關明高溫泉 Mingao Hot Spring Resort *** 6.7 -
Good location on the main street, bath, tea and coffee makers in room, restaurant, complimentary bicycles, tour desk, Hot spring bath -
Additional charge
Ku Kuan Resort Hotel 8.1 - Pay on Arrival
Great location near the river and the bridge, good breakfast included, bath, tea and coffee maker in room, hot spring bath, terrace, open-air bath, restaurant with a traditional ambience, coffee house
Things to Do in Guguan
Besides soaking in the springs, the area is great for light nature exploration.
Guguan Hot Spring Park features a public area including a free Fish Spa pool where tiny fish nibble away dead skin cells.
Guguan Suspension Bridge (谷關吊橋) is a great spot for photos, offering views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
Guguan Hot Springs (谷關溫泉)
Nestled in the mountains of the Heping District near Taichung, offers a distinct experience compared to the more sulfurous springs in northern Taiwan. The waters here are carbonic acid springs, which are clear, odorless and slightly alkaline (pH 7.6) often referred to as "heart-nourishing" because their lower temperatures are gentler on blood circulation.
Public Spas
Most hotels in the area offer Public Spas (大眾池) for a quite reasonable day-use fee. These are usually large, communal outdoor areas.
Wild Creek Springs
There are natural "wild" outlets along the Dajia River, though accessibility can change depending on recent weather and river conditions.
"The Male Child Springs"
Legend says that after the Meiji Emperor of Japan visited and bathed here, his wife successfully gave birth to a son. Consequently, the area is nicknamed the "Meiji Hot Springs" or "Male Child Springs."
The Setting
Unlike many hot spring towns that feel like dense suburbs, Guguan is a true mountain valley at an altitude of 800m. It is surrounded by the Seven Heroes of Guguan (seven famous mountain peaks), making it a major hub for both hikers and spa-goers.
Almost all hotels in Guguan feature public spa facilities.
Standard Hotels
Places like Guguan Hotel and Bali Nature Spa Resort have extensive outdoor public spa areas. These usually include multiple pools of varying temperatures, herbal baths, and hydrotherapy jets.
Note on Etiquette - In Taiwan, most outdoor public spas are mixed-gender and require swimwear and a swimming cap. However, many hotels also offer gender-segregated "nude" baths (Japanese style) and private bathrooms (湯屋) that you can rent by the hour.
Hot springs in nature with spectacular views
If you are looking for views of the rugged mountain scenery while you soak.
Bali Nature Spa Hot Spring Resort
This resort is styled after a Balinese retreat and offers outdoor pools with views of the lush green slopes.
The Riverside Hotels
Many older hotels are built right along the cliffs of the Dajia River. If you book a private room or visit their riverside pools, you can soak while looking directly down into the river gorge.
Aside from the hot springs themselves, Guguan offers a mix of indigenous Atayal culture, high-mountain hiking, and unique local delicacies.
Culture & Museums
Guguan Hot Springs Cultural Museum
Located within the park, this museum offers insights into the area’s geography, the history of the springs, and the local ecology. It’s an easy, air-conditioned way to spend an hour learning about the region.
Atayal Heritage
The region is home to the Atayal people. You can find local markets selling indigenous handicrafts and traditional foods. Keep an eye out for the tribal totems on the Shaolai Suspension Bridge.
Hiking & Nature Trails
Shaolai Trail (捎來步道)
This is the most popular trail starting directly from the park. It is a roughly 1.5km loop that takes about 60 – 90 minutes. It crosses the red Shaolai Suspension Bridge and leads to a panoramic lookout. In spring, this trail is lined with cherry blossoms; in autumn, it’s famous for maple leaves.
The "Guguan Seven Heroes"
For serious hikers, Guguan is the gateway to seven famous peaks.
Mt. Baxian (八仙山) - The highest and most challenging, located within the nearby Basianshan National Forest.
Mt. Tangmadan - The lowest of the seven but offers a great detour to the Butterfly Valley Waterfall (蝴蝶谷瀑布).
Basianshan National Forest Recreation Area
Only a 6-minute drive from Guguan, this former logging site features beautiful bamboo groves, cherry blossom paths, and crystal-clear mountain streams (Shiwen Creek). There is an entry fee.
The bamboo walk at Basianshan National Forest Recreation Area is part of a tranquil hiking route that combines deep nature immersion with historical exploration. Known as the Bamboo Forest Trail, this path is highly recommended for its peaceful atmosphere and the way it leads you through a dense canopy that feels worlds away from the city.
The walk through the bamboo groves is one of the three main forest-bathing trails in the recreation area. It is characterized by its towering Makino and Moso bamboo, which create a green tunnel effect where the sunlight rarely penetrates to the forest floor. The area is described as emerald woodlands full of fresh air and negative ions, making it a therapeutic space for mindful walking and deep breathing. The clacking sound of the bamboo stalks in the wind is incredibly meditative.
Historical Sites - The trail isn't just about nature, it passes by the ruins of a Japanese Shinto shrine and an old elementary school, offering a glimpse into the area's history as a major logging base during the Japanese colonial period. It feels like a "ghost village" reclaimed by the forest.
Tip
If you have the energy, take the detour to the Shiwen Creek area. There is a water-friendly platform where you can sit and soak your feet in the ice-cold mountain stream—it’s a bracing contrast to the hot springs back in town.
Trail Difficulty - This is considered one of the easier, more gentle routes in the park. It is suitable for families and can typically be completed in about 1 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace.
Wildlife Spotting - Visitors report seeing an incredible array of butterflies and mountain birds, such as the Green-backed Tit and Varied Tit, particularly if you walk quietly.
Visitor Essentials
Fees - If you book your tickets online (via platforms like Klook or KKday), you can often get a discount and free parking.
Operating Hours - The park is open daily from 6.30 am to 5 pm.
Amenities - There is a visitor center near the entrance with clean facilities and a cafe that serves set meals.
What to Bring - Even though this is an easier trail, the mountain roads and paths can be slippery after rain. It is recommended to wear sturdy walking shoes and bring plenty of water.
Unique Local Food
The food in Guguan is quite distinct from Taichung city. Look for restaurants on "Guguan Old Street" serving -
Sturgeon & Mountain Trout
Guguan is famous for its cold-water fish farms. Many restaurants offer a multi-course sturgeon feast where every part of the fish is used.
Baileng Popsicles (白冷冰棒)
A nostalgic must-try located near the entrance of Guguan. They are famous for unique flavors like Five-Needle Pine (a slightly herbal, refreshing green popsicle) and are quite cheap. Other popular choices include peanut, taro, and sour plum.
Wild Mountain Vegetables
Try "Stir-fried Bird's Nest Fern" or wild boar with scallions, which are staples of the local mountain cuisine.
Where and what to eat in Guguan
Guguan's food scene is a mix of high-end resort dining, mountain specialties, and rustic local snacks. Here are the must-eat spots, including the local favorites you won't find in the city.
Sturgeon Specialty Restaurants
Guguan is the capital of cold-water sturgeon in Taiwan. Many local restaurants along the main street offer a multicourse sturgeon feast where you can try the fish steamed, fried, or in a collagen-rich soup.
Song Tao (at Uni-Resort Guguan) is famous for their creative sturgeon rice pots and luxury combo sets.
Local Eateries
You will find several family-run restaurants near the multi-storey parking lot and along Sec. 1, Dongguan Rd. These often serve wild boar and mountain vegetables alongside the local trout.
If you are looking for fine dining, this is the pinnacle of the area. They offer a Taiwanese-Japanese Kaiseki dinner that combines Japanese techniques with local mountain ingredients like trout and five-needle pine.
Baileng Meat Bun (白冷肉包)
Located near the entrance to the Guguan area, these handmade pork buns are legendary. They often sell out by early afternoon, so stop here on your way into town.
Cafes & Tea Houses
A serene spot to enjoy seasonal desserts and tea with a view of the resort's water gardens.
Located within the Uni-Resort, this is one of the more comfortable Western-style cafes in the valley for a mid-afternoon coffee or light snack.
Baxianshan Forest Tea
For a more rustic experience, the nearby Basianshan National Forest Recreation Area has small tea service areas where you can enjoy high-mountain Oolong tea while surrounded by ancient cedar trees.
Guguan Hot Spring Cultural Museum Café
A simple, quiet spot within the park to grab a drink and enjoy the view of the Shaolai Suspension Bridge.
Dining Tips
Reservations - For resort dining (like HOSHINOYA or Uni-Resort), reservations are strictly required and often limited to staying guests.
Closing Times - Most local mountain restaurants close relatively early (around 8 pm), so plan for an earlier dinner if you aren't eating at your hotel.
Soaking & Stargazing
Several hotels in the Guguan area offer outdoor hot springs that remain open late at night or even 24 hours, making them excellent spots for stargazing in the mountain valley.
Since Guguan is located at an altitude of about 800 meters and is relatively secluded from major city lights, the sky can be quite clear on cloudless nights.
These hotels are known for having flexible hours or 24-hour access to their bathing facilities, allowing you to soak under the stars at any hour.
Guguan Meiji Hot Spring Hotel (谷關明治溫泉飯店)
One of the oldest and most atmospheric hotels. Its public pools are generally open all day and night. The grey slate walls and Japanese-style lanterns create a beautiful foreground for a night soak.
Guguan Hot Spring Hotel (谷關溫泉飯店)
Their outdoor spa area is typically accessible 24 hours a day for guests. It is situated right by the river, offering a "soundscape" of rushing water to accompany your stargazing.
Huilai Guguan Hot Spring Resort (惠來谷關溫泉會館)
Their private Hot Spring Houses (湯屋) are available 24 hours a day. While these are private rooms rather than public pools, many have large semi-open windows or are semi-outdoor, offering privacy and views of the night sky.
Recommendation
For a truly out in nature feel at night, the Bali Nature Spa Hotspring Resort has a large outdoor public spa area that stays open late (usually until 10 pm or 11 pm) and is surrounded by dense greenery, which helps block out town lights.
Best things to See & Do in Taichung
E-bike Tour of Taichung - MAP
There are 2 x bike stations within a 10 minute walk from the INNK Hotel.
iBike Hanxiang Road / Fuxing North Road is one of the nearest options, located just north of the hotel. Located at the intersection of Hanxiang Road and Fuxing North Road. Operates 24 hours a day, allowing for flexible rentals and returns.
iBike微笑單車 秋紅谷 is another nearby station situated by the scenic Maple Garden (Maple Valley Park). Located at the intersection of Chaofu Road and Chaoma Road. Open 24 hours daily.
The standard bike features a white and yellow color scheme. E-bikes have a white and orange body and cost double. Which isnt a lot.
Grab one and head out on this route. Skip or add any to customise your tour. Have some breakfast before you head off or stop at somewhere that looks good along the way.
Start your day exploring the cave-like architecture. Head to the 6th-floor Sky Garden for a morning view.
2. National Museum of Natural Science
Is a sprawling complex that features a wide array of exhibits on topics such as dinosaurs, human culture, and ecology. It is one of the most visited museums in Taiwan, also housing a popular 3D cinema and an extensive botanical garden.
Wander through this former government dormitory turned craft market. Grab a coffee and browse the handmade leather goods and stationery.
For a traditional lunch. Look for the famous braised pork rice and radish cakes. Most dishes here are incredibly cheap.
Taichung is famous for its Sun Cakes (太陽餅), a flaky pastry with a sweet malt filling.
This museum (associated with the original bakery) provides a background on the history of Sun Cakes and often offers DIY classes where you can learn to make them yourself.
A former Japanese eye clinic turned into a high-end dessert palace. The interior looks like a scene from Harry Potter.
Must-try - Their famous ice cream sundaes. Prices depend on the number of scoops and toppings (which include whole pineapple cakes and cheesecakes).
Is a vibrant creative hub located on the site of a former state-run brewery. It now serves as a multi-purpose space that preserves industrial architecture while hosting contemporary art exhibitions, craft workshops, and design studios.
8. Chun Shui Tang Siwei Main Shop
The disputed birthplace of Pearl Milk Tea (Bubble Tea). You can take a DIY boba-making class here or just enjoy a glass in its traditional, woody tea house setting.
A vibrant, hand-painted former military village. While the Rainbow Grandpa who started it has passed away, his colorful legacy remains one of the most photographed spots in Taiwan.
Best Places to Eat in Taichung - MAP
DIN TAI FUNG - 2 km away from the INNK Hotel
Best Times to Visit
If you want to avoid the heaviest crowds, timing your visit is key.
Weekday Windows - Arriving right at opening (11 am) or during the off-peak afternoon slot between 3 pm and 4.30 pm usually results in little to no wait.
Weekend Strategy - If you must go on a weekend, aim to arrive 15–20 minutes before they open at 10.30 am to be part of the first seating group.
Dining Tips
Small Groups: Smaller parties (1-2 people) are sometimes seated faster, as they can be placed at the bar or at smaller tables that open up more frequently.
Online Pre-ordering - Once you have your ticket number, you can often scan a QR code to start selecting your dishes on your phone, which speeds up the process once you are actually seated.
Din Tai Fung is one of Taiwan’s most successful cultural exports, transforming from a struggling retail shop into a global culinary empire. As of early 2026, it remains the gold standard for Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings).
1958 - Founded by Yang Bing-yi, a refugee from China's Shanxi province, Din Tai Fung was originally a cooking oil shop in Taipei. The name was a combination of his previous employer (Heng Tai Fung) and his oil supplier (Din Mei Oils).
1972 - When tinned salad oil became popular, the traditional oil business plummeted. On the advice of a friend, the Yangs converted half their shop to sell steamed dumplings.
The dumplings were such a hit that the oil business was phased out entirely. By 1993, The New York Times named it one of the top ten restaurants in the world, propelling it into the international spotlight.
The Golden Ratio - Every pork Xiao Long Bao is famously standardized. Each dumpling must have a dough skin weighing 5g, a filling of 16g, and exactly 18 folds.
Branches
Taipei City 8
Taiwan Total 12
Worldwide 180+
It currently operates in 13 – 15 countries/territories, including the USA, Japan, Singapore, the UK, UAE, Indonesia and Canada.
Dumplings -
Signature Soup Dumplings (Xiaolongbao) - The definitive dish of the restaurant, these dumplings are famous for having exactly 18 folds and a delicate, paper-thin skin that holds a burst of flavorful broth.
Pork Xiaolongbao - The classic version.
Truffle Xiaolongbao - A more decadent option featuring a strong aromatic profile.
Steamed Shrimp and Luffa Xiaolongbao - A lighter, refreshing alternative using sweet luffa squash.
Other dishes -
Spicy Shrimp and Pork Wontons - Drenched in a signature house-made chili oil that is savory rather than overwhelmingly hot.
Shrimp and Egg Fried Rice - Renowned for its golden appearance, featuring perfectly separated, non-greasy grains of rice.
House Special Appetizer - A chilled combination of seaweed, bean sprouts, vermicelli and bean curd skin in a tangy vinaigrette.
Soups -
Braised Beef Noodle Soup - Features tender chunks of beef and a deep, slow-cooked broth.
House Special Chicken Soup - A clear, nourishing broth with bone-in chicken that is steamed for hours to achieve its clarity and depth.
Sweets -
Chocolate Xiaolongbao - A unique dessert twist where the dumpling is filled with molten premium chocolate.
Red Bean Xiaolongbao - Filled with a smooth, finely mashed red bean paste that isn't overly sweet.
Black Tea Ice Cream
Taichung is actually one of the best places in the world to find black tea ice cream, as it is the birthplace of pearl milk tea.
The most famous place to get it is Miyahara, located in a stunningly restored 1927 eye clinic. They offer over 60 flavors, including a dedicated Tea section with several black tea variations:
Assam Black Tea (often infused with rosemary or lavender)
Ceylon Black Tea
Sri Lankan Black Tea
Where to go
Miyahara (Main Store) Located near Taichung Railway Station. It’s incredibly famous for its Harry Potter-style interior. You’ll likely have to eat your ice cream outside.
Fourth Credit Union - Just a 3-minute walk from Miyahara, this is their sister branch in a converted 1960s bank. Crucially, this location has plenty of seating, so you can sit down and enjoy your treat.
Chun Shui Tang - The original shop where bubble tea was invented occasionally offers a Pearl Milk Tea Soft Serve (in Gui Fei Black Tea flavor) at select locations.
Taichung Specialties
Ma-Yi Soup (Jute Sprout Soup)
This is arguably Taichung’s most iconic local dish. It is made from the tender sprouts of the jute plant, which are rubbed and rinsed to remove bitterness, then cooked with sweet potatoes and whitebait.
It has a slightly slimy texture and a refreshing, bittersweet taste.
Primarily found during the summer months (May to September) in old districts like Nantun.
Taichung Meatballs (Bawan)
While Bawan (giant steamed/fried gelatinous meatballs) are found all over Taiwan, Taichung's version is famous for its chewy, translucent skin and savory pork filling, usually topped with a signature sweet white sauce and a salty soy-based sauce.
Taichung Bawan (The Centenarian) - Located near the Taichung Railway Station, this shop has been serving Bawan (steamed/fried meat disks) since 1923.
A classic, no-frills Taiwanese street food shop that has stayed in the same family for generations.
Must-try - The signature Bawan and their clear glass-noodle soup.
Sun Cakes (Taiyang Bing)
Taichung is the birthplace of the Sun Cake. These are flaky, multi-layered pastries filled with a sweet, sticky maltose center. They are often enjoyed with tea to balance the sweetness.
Wei-I Sun Cake (Ziyou Road) - Many shops claim the title, but the cluster on Ziyou Road represents the "Original" sun cake district. Look for the shops with the most local patrons rather than the flashy tourist signs to find the traditional flaky maltose recipe.
Dajia Taro
The Dajia District in Taichung produces the most famous taro in Taiwan. You’ll find it in everything from savory hot pots to the famous Taro Ice or Taro Balls.
It is incredibly creamy and fragrant compared to standard taro.
Donghe Goose
Taichung is well-known for its succulent goose meat. It’s typically served poached (salted) or smoked, sliced thin, and served with ginger slivers and a light dipping sauce.
Wu Wei Tsao Tang Teahouse
Is one of the most famous examples of traditional teahouse architecture in the city, featuring a central koi pond and wooden walkways.
An urban oasis. You sit on tatami mats and brew your own high-mountain tea.
Chen,Ming-Tong soy-stewed pork 陳明統爌肉飯✔️
Was recommended by Michelin Bib Gourmand for two consecutive years in 2021 and 2022 and founded by Mr. Chen Ming-Tong in the 1960s.
It has featured on a documentary and is a traditional Taiwanese delicacy.
4MJQ+R6 Zhenxing Village, East District, Taichung City, Taiwan
Open 10.30 am – 3 pm and 4.30 – 7.30 pm - Closed Sundays
🌃 Night Markets & Food Culture MAP
Taichung is arguably the best city in Taiwan for night market food innovation.
Fengjia Night Market (逢甲夜市) 1pm - 1am
The largest and most famous night market in Taichung and one of the biggest in Taiwan. It's a culinary playground known for its trendy atmosphere and diverse, creative street food snacks (many famous Taiwanese foods were invented here).
Fengjia Night Market is considered the innovation hub of Taiwan's night markets—many of the country's famous snacks were actually invented here.
Here are the famous dishes you should try -
🍴 Signature Savoury Dishes
Big Sausage Wrap Small Sausage (官芝霖大腸包小腸)
This is Fengjia's most iconic invention. A juicy grilled pork sausage is tucked inside a larger, slit-open sticky rice sausage, then loaded with pickled greens, garlic, and peanut powder.
Ming Lun Dan Bing (明倫蛋餅)
Unlike the crispy breakfast version, these egg crepes are slightly sweet, soft, and spongy. They are made to order with fresh green onions and a signature sweet-chili sauce.
Devil’s Fried Chicken (惡魔雞排)
Known for being bigger than your face, this chicken cutlet is famous for its thick, juicy meat and a thin, ultra-crunchy batter that isn't too greasy.
Japan Boat Takoyaki (日船章魚小丸子)
The flagship store is right at the main entrance. While takoyaki is Japanese, this stall is a legend in Taichung for its perfectly crispy exterior.
Dry-Fried Clams (海邊小屋)
You'll see people walking around with little cardboard boxes of plump, juicy clams cooked in their own juices with ginger or garlic.
🍢 Unique Snacks
Lazy Man’s Shrimp (懶人蝦)
Small, soft-shell shrimps are grilled on skewers so they are crispy enough to eat entirely—no peeling required.
Sweet Potato Balls (地瓜球)
Look for the "Little 8" (小8) stall. These are air-fried until they become hollow, chewy, and addictive.
Tangyuan on Ice (御品元冰火湯圓)
Hot, handmade sesame or peanut glutinous rice balls served on top of a bed of osmanthus-syrup shaved ice.
💡 Pro Tips
The University Rule - Because it's next to Feng Chia University, the portions are generally larger and cheaper than in Taipei.
Crowds - The most famous stalls (like Ming Lun and the Sausage wrap) almost always have a 15 – 20 minute wait. Grab a drink first to sip while you queue!
Where to find drinks at Fengjia
Yakitori Stalls - Places like Gekiuma Yakitori offer grilled skewers and cold beer, perfect for pairing.
Drink Stalls - Look for stalls selling iced tea, fruit juices, and other refreshing beverages to go with your food.
Nearby Eateries - Many restaurants and small eateries in the surrounding area will have beer or other alcoholic options.
Yizhong Street Night Market (一中街夜市) 11 - 10/11 pm
Located near several schools and universities, this market has a younger, hippier vibe. It's excellent for budget-friendly food, trendy fashion, and accessories.
🍗 Savoury Classics
HOT-STAR Large Fried Chicken (一中豪大雞排)
While this chain is now global, the Yizhong branch is legendary. These cutlets are famous for being larger than a person's face.
8-Ounce Charcoal-Grilled Chicken (8兩碳烤雞排)
If you prefer your chicken with a smoky finish, this is the go-to. The chicken is first deep-fried and then brushed with a sweet-savory sauce before being grilled over charcoal.
Lu's Half-Moon Flaky Pastry (盧の堡半月燒)
A local student favorite. It’s a fried, flaky pancake filled with toppings like basil, pork, beef, or corn, and always a fried egg.
Yixin Vegetarian Stinky Tofu (一心素食臭豆腐) - Even meat-eaters line up for this. The tofu is incredibly crispy on the outside and served with a refreshing mound of pickled cabbage and cucumbers. The smell puts many people, including myself off from getting close enough to try it. They say it is like Blue Cheese which I do like.
Shanhoyan Braised Snacks (上和園滷味)
A 20-year-old institution. You pick various braised items (chicken feet, wings, tofu, etc.) from a fridge. It’s served cold, making it a popular take-home snack.
🧊 Traditional Desserts & Drinks
Yizhong Fengren Ice (一中豐仁冰)
A Taichung classic with a history of over 70 years. It’s a unique mix of sour plum shaved ice, topped with sweet honey-braised runner beans and a scoop of milk ice cream.
Tiger Sugar (老虎堂)
This is the original location where the global brown sugar boba craze started. Look for the "tiger stripes" of syrup against the milk.
Duoduo Tea House (多多茶坊)
Famous for its secret menu and very cheap prices. Ask for the Nuclear Weapon or Super Duoduo Green Tea (which often comes with an entire unopened bottle of Yakult dropped into the cup).
💡 Pro Tips for Yizhong
Avoid Weekday Afternoons - Around 4 pm – 5 pm, the market is flooded with thousands of local students finishing school. If you want shorter queues, try going around 8 pm.
🍹Alcohol
You'll find plenty of small, informal drinking spots, casual bars and beer/liquor vendors mixed in with the food stalls and surrounding area, especially as it gets later and more locals hang out.
Look for small stalls selling beer, soju, or cocktails, alongside the food.
Many stalls offer unique drinks like barley milk or papaya milk, perfect for pairing with street food.
The streets surrounding Yizhong, known for their student crowds, are packed with small restaurants, dessert shops and casual pubs that offer a broader selection.
Miyahara (宮原眼科) & Fourth Credit Union 10 am - 9 pm
These are two beautifully converted historic buildings (a former ophthalmology clinic and a bank, respectively) that now sell ice cream, chocolates, and high-end pastries. They offer a stunning, almost Harry Potter-esque aesthetic.
Minimal - *Michelin Starred Alcoholic Gelato*🍨
Minimal in Taichung recently made history as the world’s first ice cream shop to be awarded a Michelin star.
Signature Flavors (Tea and Alcohol)
The menu changes seasonally, but the tea and alcohol-based combinations are core to their identity. Chef Arvin Wan focuses on layering aromas that develop as the ice melts in your mouth.
Whiskey Combinations -
Whiskey × Salted Koji × Citrus Peel
Whiskey × Roasted Barley
Whiskey × Pineapple × Magnolia
Tea-Based Flavors -
Tieguanyin × Caramel × Milk
Biluochun × Sugarcane × Chinese Angelica
Dongding Oolong × Barley × Sweet Potato Peel
Olive × Oolong Tea × Magnolia Leaf
Pu’er × Camphor Wood × Herbal Jelly
Other Alcohol Infusions -
Sake × Wild Ginger Flower
Sorghum (Kaoliang) × Lychee × Green Plum
The Experience
Takeaway (1st Floor) - you can order two scoops in a cup. There is no seating downstairs, and since the ice cream is made with very few stabilizers to keep the flavor "clean," it melts quickly in Taichung’s humidity.
Tasting Menu $$$ (2nd Floor) - A 7-course sit-down experience. Each course is named after the temperature at which it is served, ranging from a "hot" 180°C pancake to a chilling -196°C nitrogen-frozen dessert.
The staff guide you through the tasting, first smell the aroma, then savor the texture and finally observe the lingering aftertaste.
Location: No. 16, Lane 133, Section 1, Meicun Road, West District, Taichung.
Note they often sell out, so it is recommended to visit early in the afternoon.
Zhongxiao Road Night Market 忠孝路觀光夜市 - 3 - 11 pm
Located in the South District, the Zhongxiao Road Night Market is a favorite among locals and students from the nearby National Chung Hsing University.This market is almost exclusively focused on food rather than shopping or games.
Many stalls are associated with permanent storefronts, meaning you have a better chance of finding a proper table to sit down and eat compared to other crowded markets.
Must-Try Dishes
Ma-Yi Soup (Jute Sprout Soup) A true Taichung specialty found here during the summer months; it’s a bittersweet, refreshing soup with sweet potato and whitebait.
Zhongxiao BBQ -Look for the long queues at the various grilled meat stalls known for their signature savory-sweet sauces.
Sugarcane Juice - A classic refreshing drink often mixed with lemon or milk; it’s a local staple for washing down fried snacks.
Weiquan Rice Cake - A legendary spot where people often start queuing before the doors even open for their savory, steamed glutinous rice.
🍺 Alcohol
Re-chao (Stir-fry) Restaurants
You’ll find several re-chao establishments where locals gather to eat loud, communal meals. These spots always have fridges stocked with Taiwan Beer.
Convenience Stores - There are 7-Eleven and FamilyMart locations along the road. You can buy a beer or a highball and walk around with it. Open containers are legal in Taiwan.
If you want a more traditional bar experience, there is a popular spot called The Night Bar nearby that serves cocktails and izakaya-style bites.
🧋 Non-Alcoholic (Local Favorites)
Zhongxiao is actually more famous for its traditional juice and milk tea stalls. If you’re visiting, these are the must-drinks.
Yongdetang Barley Milk - famous for its thick barley and papaya milk
You’ll see several stalls selling fresh-pressed sugarcane juice, often mixed with lemon or ginger.
Rooftop Bar for a Sunset Drink
Rooftop XOXO Bistro (Moxy Hotel)
This is probably your best bet for that doesn't break the bank.
Happy Hour Deals
They are known for their Free-Flow deals. They often run a promotion where you can get unlimited drinks for a fair price.
They sometimes have a credit system where you pay for a ticket but get a higher value to spend on drinks.
Where to Drink and Night Life in Taichung City - MAP
Taichung is famous for its creative and hidden speakeasy bars, which offer a unique atmosphere
Goût Bar (好吧)
A hidden gem known for its innovative, next-level cocktails. You typically have to find the concealed entrance, described as being hidden behind a bookshelf in a storefront (sometimes a noodle shop by day).
ISMAN
A sophisticated whiskey tasting room cleverly disguised as a bespoke tailor shop, requiring a password and entry through a secret mirror.
This unique spot operates as a gallery and coffee shop by day and transforms into a cocktail bar and live music venue by night.
🍺 The Policy: Open Containers are OK
Legality - Taiwan does not have a strict open container law that prohibits drinking alcohol in public spaces. As long as you are of legal drinking age (18 years old) and you are not causing a disturbance, you can legally consume alcohol at the night markets.
While drinking is allowed, it's considered poor etiquette to become overtly drunk or disorderly in public spaces like the night markets. Enjoy your beer in moderation while savoring the incredible street food!
The laws in Taiwan are much stricter regarding drunk driving than public consumption.
Taichung City boasts a lively and diverse nightlife that extends well beyond its famous night markets. You can find everything from massive dance clubs to sophisticated hidden speakeasies and relaxed international pub streets.
Here are the main areas and types of nightlife spots in Taichung -
The High-End & Party Zone (Xitun District)
The Xitun District, particularly the area around the National Taichung Theater and the large department stores, is where you'll find the major clubs and high-end bars.
This area is home to Taichung's largest dance clubs, such as 18TC Night Club and X-Cube, which often feature international DJs and have a high-energy party atmosphere.
The Speakeasy & Cocktail Scene (West District)
The West District, particularly around the Calligraphy Greenway and Huamei Street, is the heart of Taichung's sophisticated cocktail culture, featuring many hidden, themed bars. (Speakeasies)
Expat and Pub Scene - Soho Street and the surrounding area near the Calligraphy Greenway are popular for pubs and bars like Corner Cafe, offering a more casual, international vibe.
🍹 Good Bars in Taichung's Central District
MUD (泥醉)
A more casual and eclectic spot that transitions from a cafe during the day to a bar in the evening. It often has a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere.
Good beers, basic cocktails and often a selection of comfort food or snacks. It's a solid, reliable choice.
Corner Coffee Bar
Unpretentious, casual, and open very late (often until 4 am). It serves as a cafe during the day but is a proper, laid-back bar at night.
They are known for offering affordable bottled beers, shots, and basic mixed drinks that are priced much lower than the speakeasies.
The Local Beer Experience: Rèchǎo 熱炒
This is the traditional Taiwanese way to drink cheap beer. Rèchǎo are bustling, open-air stir-fry restaurants that operate like a pub for locals. The food is cheap, and the beer is even cheaper.
You can usually get a large 600ml bottle of Taiwan Beer for a few dollars. You must order food, but plates are generally inexpensive.
Look for any busy, well-lit place with 熱炒 (Rèchǎo) signs. A highly-rated one not far away in the West District is 9妹ㄟ店 (9 Mei's Shop), which is popular for its loud, energetic atmosphere and value.
The Absolute Cheapest - Convenience Store Bar
If your budget is the absolute priority, embrace the ultimate Taiwanese budget drinking style, Club 7 (a nickname for 7-Eleven).
Taiwan's convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, PX Mart) sell alcohol at grocery prices, which are significantly lower than bar prices.
Many large 7-Elevens and FamilyMarts in Taichung have dedicated indoor or outdoor seating areas where you can sit and drink legally. Grab a beer, a can of Strong Zero, and some snacks, and enjoy people-watching.
KINMEN 金門
Kinmen, meaning Golden Gate and also historically known as Quemoy is an archipelago governed by the Republic of China (Taiwan), but it is geographically a part of China's Fujian Province.
Location - It is one of the world's most unique geopolitical locations, situated just 6 kilometers from the major Mainland Chinese city of Xiamen, and approximately 187 kilometers from the main island of Taiwan.
The archipelago consists of Greater Kinmen, Lesser Kinmen (Lieyu), and several smaller islets. The land area is relatively small, totaling about 150 square kilometers.
Due to its isolation and unique history (see below), Kinmen boasts one of the world's best-preserved collections of traditional Southern Fujianese architecture. The island is dotted with classic red-tiled traditional houses and stunning Western-style colonial mansions built by Kinmenese who returned wealthy after working in Southeast Asia.
Transport
To get to Taichung International Airport (RMQ) from the city centre you have three main options depending on your budget and how much luggage you're lugging around.
1. Taxi or Uber (Fastest & Most Convenient)
This is the most stress-free option, especially if you have bags. It’s a roughly 25 – 40 minute drive depending on where in the city you are starting.
Uber is very reliable in Taichung and often slightly cheaper than a flagged taxi.
3. Taichung Airport Express (Comfortable Bus & Cheap)
There are specific "A" routes (A1, A2, A3) that are designed for travelers with fewer stops than a standard city bus.
Route A1: Runs from the High Speed Rail (HSR) station.
Route A2: Runs from Taichung Train Station.
Route A3: Runs from the Fengjia Night Market area. Specifically, it uses the main bus stops near the intersection of Fuxing Road and Fengjia Road
Booking Requirement - the "A" express routes require you to book your seat in advance. You need to book by 8 pm the day before your flight.
Flights to Kinmen
Are non-stop and take 65 minutes. At the time of writing there were flights at 1.35 pm - 2.15 pm & 5.35 pm. Taxi's are pretty cheap and take 10 - 15 minutes to get to Jincheng.
Getting Around
The best way to get around when you arrive is to pick up a scooter or a car at the airport when you arrive.
Taxi's are pretty cheap and take about 15 minutes to get in to Jincheng if you have too much luggage for a scooter (see San De or KmFun luggage service below) . You can always hire one in town. Plus there is a public bus.
The best way to get around the island is by scooter because many of the historic villages and coastal bunkers have very narrow roads that aren't car-friendly.
Scooter Types
Standard Petrol Scooter (125cc) - most common.
Electric Scooter (e.g., Gogoro): Increasingly popular. Some shops offer swappable battery models.
Electric Bicycle (No license required) If you don't have an International Driving Permit, you can rent a slower electric bike.
Rental Locations in Jincheng
Most rental shops are clustered right around the main bus station in the center of town.
Many guesthouses in Jincheng have partnerships with rental agencies and can have a scooter waiting for you at the door when you arrive.
If you rent for more than one day, shops like San De or KmFun will often meet you at the airport or ferry pier to drop off/pick up your luggage while you take the scooter.
Requirements for Foreigners
Passport.
Valid International Driving Permit (IDP) - you must have the "A" box (motorcycle) stamped. Taiwan is strict about this; a standard car license won't usually work for a petrol scooter.
Credit Card - For the deposit.
A Few Local Tips
There are plenty of petrol stations in Jincheng, but they are sparse in the rural areas. Fill up before you head out to the coastal forts.
You can now ride your scooter across the Kinmen Bridge to Little Kinmen (Lieyu). It’s a great ride, but be careful of the crosswinds!
Helmets are mandatory and the local police in Kinmen do enforce this.
The Bizarre History - The Frontline of the Cold War
Kinmen's bizarre history is defined by its role as the last remaining frontline of the Chinese Civil War and a geopolitical flashpoint during the Cold War.
The Decisive Battle of Guningtou (1949)
After the defeat of the Nationalist (Kuomintang, or KMT) government on the mainland in 1949, their forces retreated to Taiwan. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched a massive amphibious attack on Kinmen, believing it would be an easy stepping stone to invading Taiwan itself. However, in the Battle of Guningtou, the Nationalist forces successfully repelled the invasion after three days of fierce fighting. This victory was a decisive turning point, halting the Communist advance and securing the survival of the Republic of China government on Taiwan.
The Artillery Crisis of 1958
Kinmen was subjected to heavy shelling during the First and Second Taiwan Strait Crises. The most intense period was the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis in 1958, where the PLA unleashed a sustained bombardment, dropping over 470,000 artillery shells on the island in just 44 days. The crisis escalated into a major international confrontation, with the United States directly reinforcing the ROC defenses and supplying advanced weapons.
The Twenty-Year Propaganda Shelling
The most unique and strange chapter of this history began after the 1958 crisis. An unofficial arrangement was reached where the Chinese forces continued to shell the island, but only on odd-numbered days (later reduced to specific days).
These shells were often filled not with explosives, but with propaganda leaflets, cigarettes, and clothing, leading to an absurdity where both sides were firing politically charged gifts at each other across the strait.
This symbolic, two-decade-long artillery duel finally ceased in 1979 when the U.S. normalized relations with Beijing.
The Military Stronghold
Kinmen was under military administration and martial law from the late 1940s until 1992. The civilian population had to live under strict curfews and alongside a massive military presence that at times outnumbered the locals. The entire island was transformed into a fortress, complete with extensive underground tunnels, bunkers, and anti-landing spikes covering the beaches. The long period of military control, ironically, prevented industrial development and urban sprawl, which is why the island’s traditional architecture and natural environment are so well-preserved today.
Fun and Unique Facts
The Bombshell Knives
The most famous local product is the Kinmen cleaver, a high-quality kitchen knife. Traditionally, these knives were forged from the spent steel casings of the hundreds of thousands of artillery shells fired from the mainland.
The Wind Lion Gods (風獅爺)
Kinmen is famous for its unique stone or clay statues of Wind Lions, which can be seen across the islands. Because Kinmen was deforested long ago (partially by Koxinga in the 17th century to build his fleet), the island was prone to severe winds. Locals erected these statues at strategic points to ward off the wind and misfortune, and today they are an iconic cultural landmark.
The Zhaishan Tunnel
This is a monumental, hand-carved, subterranean waterway. Built into a granite mountain, the A-shaped tunnel was a secret dock and shelter designed to conceal small naval and supply vessels from enemy detection. It is now open to the public.
The Famous Liquor
The island is renowned for producing one of the highest-quality Chinese distilled spirits in the world, Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor (a type of baijiu). This liquor is so popular and profitable that the distillery is a major source of income for the local government, which uses the funds to provide significant benefits for its residents.
The Abandoned Tank
At Oucuo Beach, you can find an abandoned M18 Hellcat tank stuck in the sand about 50 meters offshore. It is a striking relic from the civil war era that is only reachable during low tide.
The Beishan Broadcasting Wall 北山播音牆
Is an eerie and impressive relic of the Cold War located on the northwest coast of Kinmen.
It’s essentially a giant concrete wall of sound designed for psychological warfare.
It’s a three-story-tall concrete block with 48 massive loudspeakers built into a honeycomb-like grid.
At its peak, the sound could travel up to 25 kilometers. This was more than enough to reach the city of Xiamen and the surrounding coastal villages in mainland China.
It was used to blast anti-communist propaganda news from Taiwan and invitations for mainland soldiers to defect.
The Voice of the Wall - Teresa Teng
The most famous voice associated with the wall is the legendary Taiwanese singer Teresa Teng (Deng Li-jun).
Her voice was chosen because she was immensely popular on both sides of the strait.
She would record messages like, " Dear mainland compatriots, I am Teresa Teng..." followed by her hit songs.
The goal was to use her sweet and gentle image to win hearts and minds, contrasting the harsh military rhetoric of the era.
Visiting Today
It sits on the edge of the Beishan Cliffs in Jinning Township. It’s a very dramatic spot where you can look across the water and see the Xiamen skyline clearly.
It no longer blasts at ear-splitting decibels, but it still plays Teresa Teng’s music and her original recordings at a lower volume daily.
Broadcast Times are usually between 9 am and 4.30 pm in 30-minute intervals.
The Retaliation
The propaganda wasn't all one-way. China had its own massive speaker walls on the Xiamen side that would blast pro-communist messages back at Kinmen.
During the 1960s and 70s, the 'Battle of the Speakers' meant the air was constantly filled with competing music and shouting.
It’s an incredible spot to visit on a scooter, especially around sunset when the Xiamen lights start to flicker on across the water.
Best Places to Stay Jincheng - All Pay on Arrival - MAP
Superb location within walking distance of the old street and the bus terminal and right in the heart of Jin Town, tour desk, patio, terrace, Tea/coffee maker in rooms, car hire, free parking
Excellent location in the heart of Jincheng a few minutes from the old street, tea and coffee maker in rooms, free parking
Excellent location close to the centre, bus station and lots of restaurants, traditional old Chinese house, sun terrace, outdoor seating area, 24 hour desk, tour desk, outdoor dining area, free parking
Xinqin B&B - City Area 8.9 - *No Parking
Excellent location near many beverage shops, grocery stores, FamilyMart, and 7-Eleven nearby, as well as numerous breakfast places, Tea/coffee maker in all rooms, terrace, kitchenette, washing machine
Exceptionally good location right in the city centre, free parking, balcony, free airport shuttle, garden, lounge, kitchenette, car hire, laundry, tour desk, picnic area, outdoor furniture
Excellent location in the centre of town, mini-mart, car hire, work desk, tour desk, Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
Excellent location in the centre close to shops and Milk Tea Street, free parking, free airport shuttle, kitchenette, balcony and terrace, 24-hour front desk, laundry, bicycle parking, tour desk, car hire, motorcycle rentals
金華民宿 8.4 -
Excellent location close to the one above - the accommodation is very close to the city center, making it convenient for eating, drinking and entertainment, 7/11 across the road, sun terrace, free airport shuttle, free parking, tour desk, outdoor furniture
Top Things to See & Do in Kinmen MAP
Kinmen Military Headquarters of the Qing Dynasty
It was originally built as a scholar's study during the Ming Dynasty, but was later converted into the military headquarters for the Commander of Kinmen during the Qing Dynasty. After the Qing Dynasty, it served as the Kinmen County Government and a Defense Headquarters at different times.
Exhibits - The museum features detailed displays and wax figures that bring the past to life.
Military Life - Wax figures depict the military commander, his wife, and consultations with his subordinates.
Historical Artifacts - Exhibits include historical weapons and models of the warships that were stationed around Kinmen.
The Underground Prison - Visitors can see the underground prison that was used to detain prisoners beneath the headquarters.
Architecture - The complex is a beautiful example of a traditional Chinese four-section house with three courtyards, surrounded by ancient trees, including a large banyan and a centuries-old ceiba tree.
Jiangongyu Islet + tide times (建功嶼)
It is sometimes referred to as Kinmen's own Moses Miracle because a paved causeway leading to the islet is completely submerged during high tide, but emerges from the water during low tide, allowing visitors to walk across.
Key Things to Know
The causeway is near Shuitou Village (水頭村) in Jincheng Township, on the southwestern coast of Kinmen Island.
On the islet, you'll find abandoned military fortifications, barracks and a large statue of Koxinga (Zheng Chenggong).
Tidal Schedule - You must check the tide schedule before visiting. The walkable window is usually about one hour before and after the time of the lowest tide. If you linger too long, the path will be completely covered by water, and you will be stranded until the next low tide.
Military Brothel Exhibition Hall
Often referred to by its local nickname "831" or the Special Tea House is a museum located in Xiaojing Village, Kinmen. It offers a unique and sobering look into the lives of both the soldiers and the women who occupied these government-sanctioned institutions during the height of the Cold War.
The institution was established in 1951 to address the physical needs of the roughly 100,000 soldiers stationed on the island. At the time, military discipline was a concern and the government believed these tea houses would reduce friction between the large military presence and the local population.
The Nickname 831 originated from the military's internal telephone code for the Bureau in charge of managing the brothels.
They were officially called Special Tea Houses to maintain a degree of public decorum.
At its peak, there were 11 such locations across Kinmen and its smaller islands. The system remained in place for nearly 40 years before the last brothel was closed in 1990 following pressure from women’s rights groups.
The exhibition is housed in a former brothel building that was renovated in 2010. It is designed to be informative rather than sensational, focusing on the human stories of those who lived there.
You can walk through the original rooms, which are quite small and simple, containing only a bed, a small cabinet, a mirror, and a bathroom.
Displays include historical photographs, posters and the original tickets that soldiers had to purchase to gain entry. These tickets were categorized by price depending on the soldier's rank (officers vs. enlisted).
The Women’s Stories - placards and textual descriptions detail the difficult working and living conditions of the women. While official history often frames them as "patriots" or "heroes" who served their country's soldiers, the museum also touches on the complex socio-economic reasons that led them to the island.
There is a small, quiet café located within the museum grounds where you can take a break.
Visiting Information
The hall is located near the Lanhu Reservoir in the Jinhu Township. (No. 126, Xiaojing)
Admission is free.
8.30 am to 5 pm daily.
Accessibility: The site is equipped with accessible ramps and toilets.
Day Trip to Little Kinmen - there is now a bridge
Little Kinmen is compact, historically significant and centered around its military past. You can easily follow the around-islet route to visit all the main sites.
Key Military & Tunnel Sites
The island is famous for its repurposed military tunnels and fortifications.
Jiugong Tunnels (九宮坑道)
The largest military fortification on Little Kinmen, used to shuttle supplies and hide small navy boats. A spectacular sea cave tunnel system carved into the rock.
Tie Han Fort (鐵漢堡) & Yongshi Fort (勇士堡)
Two interconnected fortresses that allow visitors to walk through dark, historic corridors and get a sense of the soldiers' daily lives. Look for the associated Landmine Exhibition Museum near Yongshi Fort, which details the history of minefields on the island.
General's Fortress (將軍堡)
A reconstructed facility that now functions as a military museum, giving you a feel for wartime tension.
Natural & Cultural Spots
Maogongshi Island Recreation Area (貓公石濱海休憩區)
Located on the coast, this area is known for its unique red-colored granite gneiss stones scattered along the coastline.
Shaxi Fort (沙溪堡)
Offers picturesque coastal views, particularly the crescent-shaped bay nearby.
Cycling
The 18.5 km Adventurous Scenic Route is a recommended activity, offering beautiful sea views and shaded green tunnels for a refreshing ride.
Lunch & Local Specialties
Lieyu is renowned for its taro (芋頭) and unique traditional snacks.
Three-story Building Taro Restaurant (三層樓芋頭餐館)
The most famous spot for enjoying local taro-based cuisine. Must-try items include the Taro Meal (taro rice, taro balls, or savory taro stir-fries).
He Cheng Handmade Cake Shop (合成手工糕餅店)
A century-old traditional bakery famous for its signature Bucket Cake (桶餅), a unique pastry with a history rooted in the local community.
Huanan Soda Factory (華南汽水廠)
A unique hybrid factory, museum, and café that offers locally flavored sodas, including Kaoliang liquor-flavored and taro-flavored varieties.
Museums and Historical Halls - MAP
The island's museums are mostly military history exhibition halls integrated into former military facilities.
Houlin Military Base (后麟步槍模擬射擊館)*
A former military supply depot and medical station. Now repurposed as an entertainment center featuring a *rifle shooting simulator.
Hujingtou Battle Museum (湖井頭戰史舘)
A must-visit to understand the 823 Artillery Battle and to view Xiamen. It is also famous for its observation post, which is the closest point in Taiwan to Mainland China (Xiamen), where you can clearly see the buildings across the strait on a clear day. Features a powerful telescope for viewing the Chinese mainland.
Landmine Exhibition Museum (地雷展示館)
Provides a stark historical reminder of the minefields that once lined the coast, and the subsequent efforts to clear them.
Lieyu Visitor Center (烈嶼遊客中心)
Located near Jiugong Tunnels, it serves as a good starting point to collect information and stamps for your trip.
Special Mention
Dadan Island (大膽島) - A small, strategically vital island even closer to China. It has been opened for small-group tours since 2019, but visits must be booked in advance and are subject to availability and weather. It offers a unique and intensive military history experience.
Major Military-Related Sites on Kinmen - MAP
Kinmen was on the front lines of the Chinese Civil War, and its military sites are its most distinctive feature.
Zhaishan Tunnel (翟山坑道)
One of Kinmen's most iconic attractions. A massive, hand-dug granite tunnel system completed in the 1960s to conceal military vessels. Today, its cool, echoing corridors are beautifully lit and it even hosts a unique music festival annually due to its acoustics.
Guningtou War Museum (古寧頭戰史館)
Commemorates the decisive 1949 Battle of Guningtou, where ROC forces repelled a Communist invasion. Exhibits include historical materials, equipment, weaponry, and battle murals.
Mashan Observation Post (馬山觀測所)
Located at the closest point to Mainland China (Xiamen), it was used for monitoring and psychological warfare. A narrow, 500-meter underground tunnel leads to a hidden observation post where you can view the mainland.
Shishan Howitzer Front (獅山砲陣地)
A fully preserved military facility built inside a cave, containing an 8-inch howitzer. Features a popular live cannon demonstration at scheduled times.
August 23 Artillery Battle Museum (八二三戰史館)
Dedicated to the 44-day artillery bombardment of 1958. Exhibits recount the history of the battle with maps, documents, and relics.
Beishan Broadcasting Wall (北山播音牆)
A large wall of speakers that was used for propaganda broadcasts toward Mainland China. You can still hear the broadcasts at certain times. Located near the historic Beishan Old Western-style House, which bears battle scars.
Jincheng Civil Defense Tunnel (金城民防坑道)
An extensive underground network built in the 1970s for civilian shelter, connecting key buildings in the Jincheng urban area. Visitors can walk through a portion of the long tunnel system.
Kinmen Knives
The famous Kinmen Knives are a unique souvenir, traditionally hand-forged from the steel of spent artillery shells fired from Mainland China onto the island in the 1950s. It's worth noting that these knives are a famous specialty because they are a literal example of turning "swords into ploughshares."
The most famous and recognizable brand for Kinmen Knives is Maestro Wu (金合利鋼刀), also known as Chin Ho Li Knife Factory. This is the best place to purchase the knives and view the history behind them. you can also view them being made here.
The main factory and showroom are located in Jinning Township on the main island of Kinmen. These locations are designed to be tourist-friendly, offering a wide selection of knives (cleavers, chef knives, decorative items) and often have special prices or unique items not found elsewhere.
What to Expect at the Factory
The factory is divided into a showroom/museum area and an active workshop.
Live Demonstrations - You can stand behind a safety barrier and watch the blacksmiths (often Maestro Wu himself) take a slice of a rusted artillery shell and forge it into a shiny kitchen cleaver.
The Process - You’ll see the steel being heated in a furnace until it's glowing orange, then hammered by machine and by hand, quenched in oil and finally ground and polished. It’s remarkably fast—a skilled smith can shape a basic blade in about 20 minutes.
Shell Piles - One of the most striking sights is the massive piles of authentic shell casings stacked outside and inside the shop, reminders of the thousands of shells fired at the island between 1958 and 1978.
Locations & Workshops
While there are a few makers on the island, the two most popular for visitors are -
Maestro Wu (Jin He Li) -
The most famous. Offers free demonstrations for visitors and has a large retail shop. Recently, Maestro Wu has offered a "Little Craftsman" DIY experience where you can hammer out your own small knife or keychain.
Jinli Steel Knife -
Another reputable maker that allows visitors to view the workshop area.
Transporting your Kinmen knives back home.
Depending on where you come from you will need to check that country's Customs Policies.
For Australia it is straightforward as long as you follow the Australian Border Force (ABF) and airline security regulations. Because Kinmen knives are single-edged kitchen tools, they are generally permitted for import for personal use.
1. Mandatory: Checked Luggage Only
Never pack knives in your carry-on luggage. They will be confiscated at airport security in Taiwan or at any transit hub. You must pack them in your checked (hold) baggage.
2. Packing for Safety
You have a responsibility to ensure your luggage is safe for baggage handlers and customs officers who may need to inspect your bag.
Sheath/Guard - Use the original box or sheath provided by the factory. If you bought them loose, wrap the blades in heavy cardboard and secure them with strong tape.
Extra Cushioning - Wrap the sheathed knives in bubble wrap or a thick towel to prevent them from moving or piercing the side of your suitcase.
Placement - Place them in the center of your suitcase, surrounded by soft items like clothes, to act as a buffer.
3. Declaring at Australian Customs
When you arrive in Australia, you will fill out an Incoming Passenger Card.
Declare Them - You should mark "Yes" on the section regarding weapons or restricted goods (Question 1). While single-edged kitchen knives are not "prohibited weapons" like flick-knives or daggers, declaring them ensures you avoid fines for non-disclosure.
Explanation - When you speak to the customs officer, simply explain that they are chef's knives/kitchen cleavers for personal use. They may ask to see them to confirm they are single-edged and not prohibited styles (like butterfly knives or daggers).
Wood Handles - If the knives have wooden handles, they must also be declared under the "wood" category on your card to ensure they are free of pests (though treated commercial handles are almost always cleared instantly).
4. Costs and Duties
Personal Use: If the total value of your knives (and other overseas purchases) is under AUD$900, you won't have to pay any duty or GST.
Over the Limit: If the value exceeds this, you may be charged approximately 10% GST plus potential customs duties on the total value.
** Or you could buy them online but they will be more expensive.
Traditional Architecture & Culture - MAP
The island's rich history as a trading hub led to unique, beautiful architecture, often blending Southern Fujianese and Western styles.
Kinmen Folk Culture Village (山后民俗文化村)
Located in the Shanhou settlement, this beautifully preserved village features 18 traditional, red-brick Fujianese-style houses and three Western-style mansions built by returning overseas Chinese merchants. It's a fantastic place to see the traditional layout of a Kinmen village.
Shuitou Village (水頭聚落) & Deyue Tower (得月樓)
This village is renowned for its diverse architecture, showcasing a blend of traditional Fujianese structures and magnificent Western-style manors. The Deyue Tower, in particular, is an elegant, multi-story defensive gun tower built by a wealthy merchant to protect his home from pirates and thieves.
Juguang Tower (莒光樓)
An iconic landmark of Kinmen, this tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and nearby Xiamen, China. Inside, you'll find an exhibition detailing Kinmen's history and military achievements.
Wind Lion Gods (風獅爺)
These charming, colorful guardian statues are unique to Kinmen and are scattered across the island. They were traditionally erected to protect villages from fierce winds and ward off evil spirits. Finding and photographing the different statues is a popular activity.
Local Specialties
Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor Inc. (金門酒廠)
Kinmen is famous throughout Taiwan for its high-proof Kaoliang liquor (a strong, clear spirit made from fermented sorghum). You can visit the distillery to learn about the production process, sample the spirit, and purchase bottles.
There are two primary locations depending on whether you want a broad factory overview or a deep-dive tasting experience.
1). Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor Inc. (Jinning Factory)
Is a large public enterprise where you can learn about the history and large-scale manufacturing of sorghum liquor.
Production Insight - You can visit the Factory History Museum and follow a tour route that explains the manufacturing process and product evolution.
Retail and Tasting - The site includes a "Life Hall" for shopping and a cafe that serves unique kaoliang-infused items, such as alcohol-infused ice cream.
Entry to the visitor center area is free.
Address - No. 1, Taoyuan Road, Jinning Township, Kinmen County, Taiwan.
Open year-round from 8 am to 5 pm.
For Individuals and Small Groups (under 10 people) tours are available every day, anytime between 8 am and 5 pm and do not require an advance booking.
The full tour route typically includes:
Factory History Museum (viewing the manufacturing process and history)
Bottle Park (photo opportunity)
Wine Poetry Trail (photo opportunity)
KKL Wine Life Hall (shopping for various vintages and strengths)
2). Jingwu Wine Cellar (經武酒窖)
For a more immersive sensory experience, Jingwu Wine Cellar offers an in-depth tour inside a former military tunnel converted into a liquor aging facility.
Tasting Experience - Visitors can participate in a "five-sense" journey that includes tasting different stages of the liquor - fresh brew, unblended raw liquor, and aged vintage.
The Vibe - The air inside the granite tunnel is thick with the fragrance of aging spirits stored in massive stainless steel tanks and clay jars.
Cost - there is an admission fee which includes the guided tour, a tasting flight and a small souvenir like a commemorative cup or lanyard.
Booking - This location is strictly by reservation (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
**Just as artillery shells are repurposed for knives, these granite tunnels - originally bored for wartime protection - now provide the perfect dark, humid and cool environment (around 20°C year-round) for aging world-class spirits.
Best Places to Eat in Kinmen - MAP
Kinmen's cuisine is a wonderful blend of Fujianese tradition, coastal ingredients, and the ingenuity of wartime necessity. It has a unique soil ideal for peanuts and sorghum.
🍽️ Jincheng Town Famous & Old Eateries
OldShuang Ru Milk Cake (壽記廣東粥)
Famous for its Cantonese Congee (廣東粥)—a thick, hearty porridge containing meat, seafood, and sometimes an egg, but without rice grains (they are cooked down until dissolved). Often sells out quickly.
Shou Ji Cantonese Congee (壽記廣東粥)
Another highly regarded spot for the signature Cantonese Congee. It is one of the oldest and most popular breakfast joints.
Qing Xiang Shaved Ice (清香刨冰)
An extremely popular, long-standing spot for traditional Taiwanese-style shaved ice desserts, often featuring taro, red beans, and other local toppings. Great for a refreshment.
Lin Kee Noodle (林記麵線) Noodle Shop
Famous for Oyster Vermicelli (蚵仔麵線) and other traditional noodle dishes. Kinmen's oysters are small and flavorful.
Taimiao Kou Fried Oyster
Famous for its Oyster Omelet (蚵仔煎). A street stall near the Taimiao temple that attracts long lines.
Tearooms & Cafes
Jincheng has many stylish modern cafes, but for a unique historical experience, look for places set inside the traditional Minnan (Southern Fujianese) houses or Yang Lou (Western-style mansions).
Beishan Ancient Western-style House (北山古洋樓)
While not in Jincheng, this cafe/guesthouse near the Guningtou Battle Museum offers a memorable experience. You can enjoy a drink in a building that still bears visible bullet and artillery damage from the 1949 battle.
Traditional Tea Houses
Many restored Min-Nan style compounds in Jincheng and Shuitou Village (near Jincheng) now serve as tearooms or small cafes, allowing you to relax in a beautifully preserved historical setting.
🥢 Kinmen Local Specialties (Must-Try Dishes)
These are the signature foods you should seek out all over the island.
Kinmen Cantonese Congee (廣東粥)
A very smooth, rich porridge where the rice grains are completely dissolved. Toppings often include meatballs, pork slices, eggs, and occasionally liver. You must pair this with a side of their freshly fried dough sticks (youtiao) to dip into the hot broth.
Try it at - Yongchun Cantonese Congee perhaps the most iconic breakfast spot in Jincheng. Operating since 1930, it specializes in the traditional grainless congee that locals adore.
The Signature - Try their standard Cantonese congee which features a creamy, soup-like texture packed with pork liver, meatballs, and fish.
Kinmen Beef Noodles (Distiller's Grain Beef)
Kinmen's cattle are famously fed on the leftover fermented grains from the local Kaoliang (sorghum) liquor production. This gives the beef a unique, tender marbling and a subtle fragrance.
Must try - Fresh-pour beef noodles, where boiling broth is poured over raw, thinly sliced beef right at your table.
Try it at - Gaokeng Beef Restaurant is a legendary institution in Jinsha known for its Whole Cow Feast. They utilize local beef raised on sorghum grains, resulting in a distinctively rich flavor.
They are famous for their varied beef preparations, from classic noodles to creative stir-fries using every part of the cattle.
This is also a primary location to pick up high-quality Kinmen beef jerky.
Oyster Mee Sua & Oyster Omelets (O-a-chian)
Kinmen's stone oysters are smaller than commercial farm-raised oysters but are incredibly sweet and firm.
Oyster Mee Sua - A thin vermicelli soup topped with heaps of these tiny, flavorful oysters.
Try it at - Wen Ji Oyster Mee Sua a local favorite tucked away in the Jincheng Zhongxing Market, offering a truly authentic taste of Kinmen's stone oysters. It’s a humble, traditional stall that opens early in the morning—perfect for a local-style breakfast.
Signature Dish - Their Oyster Mee Sua features small, firm local oysters in a thick, savory vermicelli soup.
Oyster Omelets - are a distinct culinary experience, differing significantly from the versions found in Taiwan's mainland night markets. Kinmen chefs typically use much less starch batter. This results in a dish that feels more like a traditional egg omelet packed with seafood rather than a gelatinous snack. Because there is less water and starch, the edges are often pan-fried to a deeper, more aromatic golden brown.
Where to Try Them - Oyster House Restaurant is an official restaurant established by the Kinmen County Fisheries Research and is widely considered the best place for purity of ingredients. They source their rock oysters directly from the nearby Guningtou coastal area, ensuring the highest quality. Located near the historic Guningtou Battle Museum, making it a convenient stop during a sightseeing tour.
Oyster puffs (O-de-kue) 蚵嗲
The famous Kinmen fried oyster puffs are a beloved deep-fried street snack. These are designed to be a portable, crunchy delight, traditionally sold from small stalls or hole-in-the-wall shops in historic villages.
The snack is made by layering ingredients in a round, flat metal ladle. A thin batter made from soybean and rice flour is spread at the bottom, followed by a generous heap of shredded cabbage, celery, and leeks. A cluster of small, flavorful Kinmen stone oysters is placed in the center, topped with more vegetables and another layer of batter before being submerged in boiling oil.
The result is a golden-brown, disc-shaped fritter with a shatteringly crisp exterior and a steaming, juicy interior.
The sweetness of the cooked cabbage and the aromatic leeks perfectly balance the briny, intense umami of the local rock oysters.
It is traditionally served with a brush of thick, savory soy paste or a spicy chili sauce that seeps into the crispy crust.
Where to Find the Best Oyster Puffs
A-Jhou Fried Oyster Puffs
Is arguably the most famous spot in Kinmen, located right under the historic Qiu Liang-gong’s Mother Chastity Arch in Jincheng.
Local Institution - This stall often has a queue of locals and tourists alike waiting for a fresh batch.
Signature Style - Their puffs are known for an exceptionally thin, crispy skin that isn't overly greasy.
Guningtou Fried Oyster Puffs
Is located near the Guningtou battle sites and offers a very traditional, rustic version of the snack.
Farm-to-Table - Being close to the oyster beds, the oysters used here are incredibly fresh and often larger in quantity than at city stalls.
Jin De Fried Oyster Puffs
Is another highly-rated spot in Jincheng, tucked away in the market streets.
Locals favor this spot for its consistent frying temperature, ensuring the cabbage stays crunchy rather than soggy.
They sometimes offer versions with different fillings, though the classic oyster remains the top seller.
Tribute Candy (Gongtang)
This is Kinmen’s most famous snack. It’s a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth peanut candy. Historically, it was a delicacy tributed to the Emperor.
Primarily peanut and maltose, but now comes in flavors like seaweed, garlic, or black sesame.
Try it at - Chen Jinfu Tribute Candy one of the island's most venerable candy makers, located near the historic Jincheng Old Street. They are well-known for traditional Bamboo Leaf and Pig’s Foot (peanut and maltose) varieties.
Sheng Zu Gong Tang (Main Store) - while famous for Tribute Candy, this massive flagship store is a one-stop shop for all deep-fried Kinmen snacks, including high-quality fried dough twists. They offer free samples of almost everything, so you can find your favorite flavor before buying.
Lieyu Taro (Small Kinmen Taro)
If you cross over to Lieyu (Little Kinmen), you have to try the taro. Because of the red soil there, the taro is exceptionally fluffy and fragrant.
Must-Try - Taro ice (shaved ice topped with sweet taro mash) or savory taro rice.
Try it at - Look for shops near the pier offering taro shaved ice or taro-filled pastries made with the island's famous fluffy red-soil taro.
Lin Xin-yuan Ma-hua (Little Kinmen)
If you want the most authentic handmade dough twists, this is the legendary spot on Little Kinmen.
It’s a traditional family-run operation. You can often see them hand-twisting the dough in the back.
Their Garlic flavor is the local gold standard—it’s savory, pungent, and incredibly addictive.
The Signature Drink - Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor
No trip to Kinmen is complete without mentioning 58% Kaoliang Liquor. It is made from fermented sorghum and is a staple of Taiwanese banquets.
Price Note - While a bottle in Kinmen is quite affordable, buying a 750ml bottle of the "Platinum Dragon" 58% label in Australia usually costs around $120.00 – $140.00 AUD due to import taxes.
Tip - If you aren't a fan of strong spirits, look for Kaoliang Ice Cream at the Kinmen County Livestock Research Institute—it gives you the aroma without the kick.
Kinmen Mofan Street
Is a red-brick arcade street built in 1924, featuring a blend of Japanese, Western, and Chinese architectural styles. It is the heart of Jincheng's old town and serves as a hub for both traditional snacks and creative new ventures. You can find everything here from traditional "Gong Candy" and handmade knives (made from artillery shells) to modern cafes.
Themed Dining - The street is known for restaurants that lean into the island's unique military and political history.
Mao Zedong Milk Tea
Kinmen is famous for its unique local milk teas, often found on historic streets like Mofan Street and near Shuitou Village. Key specialties include sorghum-infused tea, milk tea with rose petals, and creatively named drinks like Mao Zedong or Chiang Kai-shek milk tea.
The most famous beverage on Mofan Street is found at Maozedong Nai Tea. Served at the Lian Lian Hong Lou restaurant this drink is a local curiosity that blends traditional Taiwanese milk tea with Kinmen's famous 58-degree Kaoliang liquor, giving the creamy drink a strong, sharp kick.
The shop is heavily decorated with nostalgic and political memorabilia, featuring posters and imagery of Mao Zedong, intended as a kitschy, peaceful nod to the island's cross-strait history.
For those who don't want alcohol, they often offer versions with agar-agar jelly or other traditional toppings.
Ah Gong's Handmade Bean Curd
Is located on the picturesque Mofan Street and has been serving traditional desserts for over 40 years.
Signature Toppings - their tofu pudding (douhua) is incredibly soft and is best enjoyed with local taro mash or chewy taro balls.
The shop is housed in a beautiful red-brick building.
Shuitou Village / Wind Lion Cultural Museum
Features a milk tea shop near Deyue Tower known for uniquely named teas (e.g., Mao Zedong/Chiang Kai-shek).
Shamei Old Street
Located in Jinsha Town, this area has a variety of drink options and is known for its Moroccan-style, old-fashioned street scene.
Jincheng Old Street
While Mofan Street offers the historical experience, the surrounding Jincheng Old Street area is where you will find the real local food scene.
Guangdong Congee - you can find legendary breakfast spots serving soupless rice porridge.
Traditional Pastries - Look for shops selling Shao Bing (savory or sweet flaky biscuits) which are often sold out by mid-day.
Yu Chuan Canteen
Offers a more modern dining environment while staying true to traditional Kinmen flavors, particularly their use of local sorghum.
Their signature is the Sorghum Braised Pork Rice, which adds a subtle local distillery aroma to the classic Taiwanese comfort dish.
Biao Ji Eatery
Is a long-standing local favorite that serves a wide variety of Kinmen staples from dawn until early afternoon.
Top Recommendations - oyster vermicelli and traditional handmade dumplings.
Like many shops in Jincheng, they close by mid-afternoon.
Ma-Shan Fried Dough Twists
Located in the northeast of the main island near the Ma-Shan Observation Post.
Military History - This shop originally served the soldiers stationed at the closest point to mainland China.
The Specialty - Their twists are slightly larger and have a very traditional, rustic crunch that hasn't changed in decades.
Best Places to watch the Sunset in Kinmen - MAP
Kinmen offers some spectacular sunset views, often with the unique backdrop of Xiamen, China's skyscrapers, or historic military landmarks. Since the sun sets in the west, the best spots are generally found along the western and southern coasts of the main island and Little Kinmen (Lieyu).
Haitianbao
Is one of the most unique spots on the island, housed in a repurposed military stronghold overlooking Xinhu Fishing Port. While primarily a cafe, it is highly recommended for its evening atmosphere.
Features a 4th-floor rooftop garden and open-air seating with panoramic sea-views perfect for stunning sunsets and stargazing.
Everrich Golden Lake Hotel
Is the island's premier luxury hotel and provides a more upscale, elevated environment.
While the main bar is located in the lobby, the hotel features an expansive outdoor terrace and a seasonal pool area with views of Taihu Lake.
Cihu Lake (慈湖)
Is one of the most famous and photographed sunset spots. It's a vast brackish water lake and wetland area. As the sun dips, it casts brilliant colors over the water. You also get a fantastic, clear view of the city lights of Xiamen, China across the strait, which light up as the sky darkens. It's also a great spot for bird-watching.
Jincheng Coastal Park (金城海濱休閑公園) & Tongan Pier
This area offers a wide, expansive coastal view. You can stroll along the scenic path and look out over the smaller nearby islets like Wanglieyu and Jiangongyu. It also provides a clear view of the Xiamen skyline. Look for small craft beer spots or bistros in the alleys of the Houpu (Jincheng) old town. The nearby Tongan Pier is also a popular attraction point for watching the sunset.
Shuang Kou Beach (雙口海邊) - Little Kinmen
Being on the smaller island, this beach is one of the closest points to the Kinmen Bridge and offers a vast, unobstructed view of the sun setting over the water, often with the Kinmen Bridge visible in the distance.
Jiangong Islet (建功嶼)
Check the Tide for Jiangong Islet. If you catch the sunset when the tidal path to the islet is exposed, you can walk out to it, offering a spectacular, one-of-a-kind view.
Vent Bar (The Frontline Experience)
This is the most famous bar on the island right now. It blends Kinmen’s military history with modern mixology.
It’s located near the coast in Jincheng Township. While not a high-rise, the outdoor area is perfect for watching the sky turn orange over the Taiwan Strait.
Try the Pick and Eat or any cocktail made with local Kaoliang (sorghum liquor).
Shaxi Fort (Little Kinmen / Lieyu)
If you cross the new Kinmen Bridge to Little Kinmen, this is the ultimate sunset destination.
A wooden boardwalk leads out to a pavilion on a rocky outcrop. You are only 4km from the Xiamen skyline in China. Watching the sun set behind the Xiamen skyscrapers is surreal.
There are small local vendors and cafes nearby in Xifang Community (like Jianianhua Ice Shop) where you can grab a local beer or a spiked shaved ice.
Where to Drink and Night Life in Kinmen
The bar scene in Jincheng has expanded recently, with several spots operating in renovated traditional houses or unique settings.
Live music in Jincheng is often tied to specific events or "hidden" venues rather than nightly schedules at every bar.
In Jincheng, the evening shopping and dining scene is centered around the historic "Old Streets," which offer a blend of traditional architecture, local snacks and casual spots to grab a drink.
Mojo Bar aka Vent Bar
Is widely considered the landmark of Kinmen’s cocktail scene, located in a beautifully preserved Minnan-style heritage house.
Specializes in creative cocktails using local Kinmen Kaoliang distillery products.
Features a unique setting in a historic ancestral hall plaza.
Offers an immersive "Kaoliang tasting experience" that often includes live band performances on select nights.
Xin Damiaokou Live Seafood
Offers a more traditional "recha" (hot stir-fry) experience where locals gather for beer and fresh seafood under the stars.
Located in an open-air setting near the Wumiao Stage.
Popular for its lively, casual atmosphere and late-night dining until 11pm.
Ideal for trying local specialties like sandworms and oysters alongside cold beers.
Juguang Tower
Frequently serves as the backdrop for evening cultural performances and light shows.
The tower grounds are a central hub for larger seasonal concerts and community gatherings.
Historic Shopping Streets
The heart of Jincheng's night activity is found within the narrow, red-brick alleyways of the Qing Dynasty era. These streets stay active into the mid-evening with souvenir shops and food stalls.
Mofan Street (Model Street) is the most iconic shopping thoroughfare, famous for its uniform red-brick arches and a mix of traditional and modern businesses.
This is the primary spot to find shops selling Kinmen’s famous "Ma-shu" (peanut candy) and steel knives made from artillery shells.
Several small bistros and cafes along this stretch serve local craft beer and Kaoliang-infused cocktails.
It is particularly atmospheric at night when the lanterns under the arches are lit.
Late-Night Dining and Beer
For a more local night market feel, the area around the Wumiao (Guan Di Temple) becomes a hub for outdoor dining where beer is a staple.
Jincheng Riverside Park
Occasionally hosts pop-up night markets or cultural creative markets, especially during the summer months or festival seasons.
These markets often feature local artisans, food trucks, and temporary beer stalls.
The park provides a scenic view of the water, making it a popular spot for an evening stroll with a drink.
EXTRA
When your time here is over fly back to Taipei and on to your next destination. Taipei is directly connected to 102 destinations including places like Kota Kinabalu, Naha and quite a few out of the way places.
