Category: Taichung

  • Ultimate Guide To Exploring Taiwan: Top Things To Do & Must-See Attractions

    Ultimate Guide To Exploring Taiwan: Top Things To Do & Must-See Attractions

    Tourism is crucial in Taiwan as it bolsters the economy, creates jobs, and promotes cultural exchange. It highlights Taiwan’s unique history, modern architecture, and scenic landscapes, attracting millions of global tourists annually.

    Best time to visit Taiwan

    The best time to visit Taiwan is during the fall, specifically between October and December. This season offers comfortable temperatures, fewer tourists, stunning autumn foliage, and a variety of cultural festivals. If you’re wondering what to do in Taiwan during this time, you’ll have plenty of options to explore its vibrant culture and natural beauty.

    Documentation needed

    Documentation is crucial for any operation or procedure. It could include instructions, details of transactions, legal papers, technical manuals, or user guides. Proper documentation eradicates confusion, ensures consistency, and provides legal protection.

    Major Cities to Explore in Taiwan

    Taipei

    Taipei, Taiwan’s capital city, embodies a fusion of Asian cultures. It boasts a dynamic nightlife, a rich culinary scene, ancient temples, and Taipei 101 – a towering beacon of modern technology and architecture.

    Taipei 101

    Taipei 101, located in Taiwan, is an iconic skyscraper boasting 101 floors above ground. Renowned for its unique architecture, it was once the world’s tallest building and remains a popular tourist destination.

    Xinyi Shopping District

    Xinyi Shopping District in Taipei, Taiwan is a bustling area known for its luxurious shopping centers. It showcases the city’s tallest skyscraper, Taipei 101, dynamic nightlife, and diverse dining locales.

    Shilin Night Market

    Shilin Night Market, located in Taipei, Taiwan, is a bustling hotspot for tourists and locals. Known for its diverse food stalls, bargain shopping, and vibrant atmosphere, it encapsulates the city’s rich culture and cuisine.

    Taichung

    Taichung, located in the western part of Taiwan, is known for its bustling night markets, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful parks. It offers a blend of both modernity and tradition, making it an enchanting must-visit city for travelers.

    National Taichung Theatre

    The National Taichung Theatre in Taiwan is a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito. It features organic shapes, inspired by nature, and offers world-class performing arts experiences.

    Rainbow Village

    Rainbow Village, located in Taichung, Taiwan, is a vibrant, colorful art installation hand-painted by the elderly resident, Mr. Huang. Bursting with unique murals, the village attracts tourists with its spirited and imaginative depictions of life.

    Feng Chia Night Market

    Feng Chia Night Market in Taichung, Taiwan offers an incredible array of food, clothing, and entertainment. Busy and vibrant, it showcases the exuberance of Taiwanese nightlife. It’s a must-visit attraction for food enthusiasts.

    Kaohsiung

    Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, is recognized for its bustling port, cultural diversity, and contemporary architecture. The city houses the captivating Love River, scenic Lotus Lake, and a vibrant night market, exemplifying a mix of urban charm and natural beauty.

    Love River

    The Love River, situated in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, offers captivating beauty, enhanced by romantic bridges and dazzling light displays. This charming, urban watercourse serves as a popular spot for waterside activities and strolls, with numerous cafes alongside.

    Pier-2 Art Center

    Pier-2 Art Center in Kaohsiung, Taiwan is a hub of modern creativity. The once-abandoned warehouse district now teems with life, showcasing local and international contemporary artists, exhibitions, and installations.

    85 Sky Tower

    85 Sky Tower, located in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is a notable landmark. This 85-floor epic building functions as a hotel, shopping complex, and observatory offering stunning panoramic views of the city and harbor.

    Taiwanese Cuisine and Where to Find Them

    Taiwanese street food

    Taiwanese street food is a gastronomic delight defined by diverse flavors. Night markets offer dumplings, bubble tea, stinky tofu, and beef noodle soup. Fast, flavorful, and affordable – it’s an integral part of Taiwanese culture.

    Traditional delicacies

    Traditional delicacies carry a rich history, reflecting the taste, culture, and habits of communities across the globe. Often prepared on special occasions, these culinary treasures have unique flavors that offer an extraordinary gastronomic experience to food lovers.

    Seafood experience

    Savoring fresh seafood is truly unique, ensnaring all senses. The sight of vibrant colors, the aroma of the ocean, the texture, and the explosion of flavors, provide an unforgettable experience.

    List of night markets to visit

    Explore the vibrant night markets worldwide. Thailand’s Chatuchak Market buzzes with activity. Taipei’s Shilin Night Market offers exotic delicacies. Marrakech’s Djemaa el Fna boasts unique arts. Laos’ Luang Prabang is illuminated with colorful crafts. Visit and enjoy their captivating allure.

    Exploring Taiwan’s Natural Attractions

    Yushan National Park

    Yushan National Park, located in Taiwan, is famed for its stunning biodiversity and spectacular mountainous terrain. Home to the highest peak in East Asia, Yushan Mountain, this park captivates visitors with its rich flora and fauna.

    Sun Moon Lake

    Sun Moon Lake is a natural marvel located in Taiwan. It is known for its mesmerizing beauty and calming environment. The lake got its name from its unique shape, resembling both the sun and the moon. It’s a must-visit place for tourists.

    Taroko Gorge

    Taroko Gorge, located in Taiwan, is a natural wonder featuring marble cliffs, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls. This breathtaking landscape is renowned for its diverse wildlife and scenic hiking trails, attracting nature lovers worldwide.

    Alishan Scenic Mountain Area

    Alishan Scenic Mountain Area is a spellbinding natural wonder in Taiwan. Known for its sunrise views, sea of clouds phenomenon, diverse flora and fauna, five unique forest railway routes, and ancient giant trees, it offers breathtaking landscapes and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

    Taiwanese Temples and Culture

    Visit to Longshan Temple

    During my visit to Longshan Temple, I was awestruck by its intricate designs, teeming history, and tranquil atmosphere. The temple’s bustling surroundings in Taipei suddenly gave way to serene spirituality, leaving me thoroughly enchanted.

    Confucius Temple in Taipei

    The Confucius Temple in Taipei, Taiwan showcases traditional architecture and homage to Confucius, the famed Chinese philosopher. Its grand design and peaceful ambiance attract tourists and serve as an educational center related to Confucianist philosophies.

    Chung Tai Chan Monastery in Puli

    Chung Tai Chan Monastery in Puli, Taiwan, is a remarkable piece of architecture, blending traditional Buddhist style with modern design elements. It’s renowned for its spiritual teachings, serene environment, and stunning mountain views.

    Outstanding Museums and Historic Sites

    National Palace Museum

    The National Palace Museum in Taiwan houses a vast collection of nearly 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks, making it a hub of Chinese culture and history.

    Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

    Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a prominent historical landmark in Taipei, Taiwan. Its grand design encapsulates the vibrant history and culture of the region. It was established to honor former Chinese leader, Chiang Kai-shek.

    Fort San Domingo

    Fort San Domingo, located in Tamsui, Taiwan, sports significant historical relevance. Representing diverse colonial pasts, it exemplifies Spanish, Dutch, and Chinese rule evolutions. Known for red-bricked walls, it combines both Western and Eastern architectural styles.

    Fun Activities and Experiences in Taiwan

    Biking through East Rift Valley

    Biking through East Rift Valley in Taiwan is a surreal experience. The scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and tranquil rice fields combine for an unforgettable journey, providing cyclists with unparalleled exploration opportunities.

    Hot springs bathing in Beitou

    Beitou, Taiwan, lavishes wellness-seekers with its famed hot springs. The therapeutic, sulfuric baths, surrounded by lush scenery, offer soothing relaxation and a unique cultural experience, promoting holistic well-being.

    Shopping at Ximending Youth Shopping District

    Ximending Youth Shopping District in Taipei, Taiwan is a bustling hub of fashion, food, and culture. With its trendy boutiques, unique street food stalls, and lively entertainment, it’s a paradise for young shoppers and travelers alike.

    Practical Information for Visitors

    Transportation Options

    Various transportation options exist today, including cars, buses, trains, bicycles, and airplanes. Each mode offers different benefits, such as speed, comfort, and environmental impact. They play pivotal roles in urban planning, trade, commutes, and tourism.

  • Taichung, Chiayi & Alishan Itinerary – Taiwan Highland & Cities Adventures

    Taichung, Chiayi & Alishan Itinerary – Taiwan Highland & Cities Adventures

    Taiwan is a beautiful country with lots of natural, cultural and urban attractions. If you have only visited Taipei, we recommend you to venture out to its more historical and cultural cities such as Taichung and Chiayi. Chiayi, in particular, is the gateway city to visit the famed Alishan – a mountain province filled with green slopes, and sacred trees. To help you with your trip planning, we are happy to share the travel details of our 7 Days Taichung, Chiayi & Alishan Itinerary. Have fun adapting the itinerary to best suit your travel preference.

    Taichung, Chiayi & Alishan Itinerary – 7 Days Taiwan Highland & Cities Adventures

    Day City Time Activity Venue 
    Day 1 Singapore 6.55am Check In Flight Scoot TR 996 Changi Terminal 2
    8.30pm Flight Departure
    Taipei 1.15pm Arrival Taipei Taipei Taoyuan Airport Terminal 1
    2.30pm Take HSR To Chiayi / Lunch on board Taipei HSR Station
    Chiayi 4.30pm Reach Chaiyi HSR Station Chaiyi HSR Station. Take cab 22 mins to hotel
    5.00pm Reach Chiayi King Hotel No. 234, Sinrong Road 600 Chiayi City Taiwan
    6.00pm Turkey Rice Spraying of Water Chicken Rice 喷水鸡肉饭. On the way to night market
    7.00pm Apo Duck Noodle & Wen’s Sichuan Beef Noodle No.106, Lanjing St., West Dist., Chiayi City 600. Further down from night market
    8.00pm Wenhua Road Night Market Walk 550m from hotel
    10.00pm Rest Early Chiayi King Hotel
    Day 2 Alishan 9.30am Pick up from hotel (TWD1800 Cash) Chiayi King Hotel
    11.00am Reach Fenqihu, eat local bento & explore the old town Fenqihu Town
    12.00pm Movie Set For Starry Starry Night
    1.00pm Drinks & Dessert At Aiyu Uncle’s House
    2.00pm Reach 53.1 Homestay (stock up before heading up) 602, Taiwan, Chiayi County, Fanlu Township, 公田村第五鄰隙頂76之8号
    3.00pm Trek Up For Sunset 53.1 Trekking Trail
    5.30pm Reach Homestay Before Dark 53.1 Homestay
    6.00pm Dinner At Minsu or Aborginal Youbasi
    9.00pm Chill & rest for the night 53.1 Homestay
    Day 3 Alishan 6.30am View Xi Ding Sunrise 200m from 53.1 Homestay
    9.00am Take bus up to Alishan Main Area Bus stop from 53.1 Homestay
    10.00am Reach Alishan Main Area Alishan Main Area
    10.30am Giant Sacred Trees, Giant Trees Clusters, Shoujhen Temple & Sister’s Lake Sacred Tree Station
    7.00pm Dinner At Minsu or Aborginal Youbasi 53.1 Homestay
    9.00pm Rest for the night
    Day 4  Alishan 11.00am Check Out 53.1 Homestay
    11.30am Bus to Chiayi HSR Station (TWD1300)
    Chiayi 1.30am Train to Taichung / Lunch On Board Chiayi HSR Station
    Taichung 2.30am Reach Taichung Taichung HSR Station
    3.00pm Check In Hotel Half (18 mins cab ride away) 4F, No. 135, Luchuan West Street, Central District, Taichung City, 400, Taiwan –
    綠川西街135號4樓 , 中區, (台中市, 400)
    3.30pm Late lunch / Tea At Banana New Paradise No.111, Sec. 2, Shuangshi Rd., North Dist., Taichung City 404, Taiwan (R.O.C.). 6 mins by car
    4.30pm Confucius Temple Martyr’s Shrine 2 mins walk from Banana New Paradise
    5.00pm Yi Zhong Shopping Street
    Must Try: Fong Ran Ice
    Yizhong Street, North District, Taichung City, Taiwan 404
    8.00pm Smile Night Market (3 mins from Banana New Paradise) Shuangshi Rd and Yule St intersection, North Dist., Taichung City, Taiwan 404
    9.00pm Rest back at hotel Hotel Half
    Day 5 Taichung 8.30am Wake Up Hotel Half
    9.00am Breakfast & shopping Taichung 2nd Market
    Must try: Dingshan Rou Yuan, Wang Carrot Cake & Fuzhou Noodles
    No. 87, Sec. 2, Sanming Rd., Central Dist, Taichung, Taiwan (8 mins away from hotel)
    11.30am Animation Lane (15mins walk away) Lane 100, Linsen Road, West District, Taichung City, Taiwan 403
    12.30pm Chun Shui Tang for Bubble Tea 403, Taiwan, Taichung City, West District, Gongyi Road, 68號
    1.00pm Taichung Civic Square & Calligraphy Greenway Xiangshang North Road, West District, Taichung City, Taiwan 403
    2.30pm I’m Talato Ice-cream & Camwhoring (Reservations made) No. 451, Yingcai Road, West District, Taichung City, Taiwan 403.
    4.00pm Cab to Gaomei Wetlands Calligraphy Greenway
    5.00pm Gaomei Wetlands Gaomei Wetlands, Meidi Street, Qingshui District, Taichung City, Taiwan 436
    7.00pm Bagua Kiln Restaurant No.539, Sec. 3, Wuquan W. Rd., Nantun Dist., Taichung City 408, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
    9.00pm Mitaka 3e Café No.731, Dongjin E. Rd., Shalu Dist., Taichung City 433, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
    10.30pm Rest back at hotel Hotel Half
    Day 6 Taichung 8.30am Wake Up Hotel Half
    9.00am Breakfast only Taichung 2nd Market No. 87, Sec. 2, Sanming Rd., Central Dist, Taichung, Taiwan (8 mins away from hotel)
    10.00am Taichung Suncake Museum DIY Session No. 25, Section 2, Ziyou Road, Central District, Taichung City, Taiwan 400
    11.00am Bath & final packing Hotel Half
    12.00pm Check out
    12.30pm Lunch At Wu Wei Tsao Tang Tea House No. 106, Section 2, Gongyi Road, Nantun District, Taichung City, Taiwan 408
    2.00pm Fantasy Story 13 Meicun Road Section 1 Lane 117
    4.00pm Tea Break At Sweet Woods 136 Xiangshang North Road (5 mins walk away)
    5.00pm CMP Block Museum of Arts No. 71, Guanqian Road, West District, Taichung City, Taiwan 404
    7.00pm Dinner & Dessert Miyahara Eye Hospital
    9.00pm Take luggage & leave for HSR Hotel Half
    9.51pm Take 1570 HSR to Taoyuan (10.34pm) Taoyuan HSR Station
    11.25pm Check In Flight Scoot TR 897 Taipei Taoyuan Airport Terminal 1
    Day 7 Taipei 1.25am Flight Departure Taipei Taoyuan Airport Terminal 1
    Singapore 6.15am Arrival Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2

     

    Taiwan Highland & Cities Adventures – Planning Tips

    To avoid the crowds at Alishan, we recommend that you stay at one of the minsu that is located midway up the mountain range. The minsu – 53.1 Homestay we crashed at was really beautiful and we even saw a sea of cloud in the early morning. Use it as a base to explore Alishan. We were initially unsure if we should visit Gaomei Wetlands as it was pretty out of the way. But we were glad we did, it actually became one of our trip’s highlights. Have fun in Taichung, Chiayi and Alishan, do share your experience with us in the comments section below too!

  • Taichung Rainbow Village – Rainbow Grandfather’s Colourful Mural Art

    Taichung Rainbow Village – Rainbow Grandfather’s Colourful Mural Art

    Taichung is probably not as high up on the list of must-visit Taiwanese cities compared to Taipei or Kaohsiung. Many visitors only come to Taichung because it is the gateway to popular tourist destinations like Cing Jing Nantou as well as Sun Moon Lake. That is a pity because Taichung is Taiwan’s cultural centre. Besides the well-known National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts and annual outdoor jazz festival every October, the city is also home to the famous Taichung Rainbow Village – a small village with gorgeous painted murals all over its walls. If you are into mural art and picture-perfect hotspots, you must not miss this colourful Instagram-friendly village.

    Taichung Rainbow Village – Artistic Protest For Conservation

    When Chiang Kai Shek’s Chinese Nationalist Party retreat to Taiwan in the late 1940s, they brought along more than two million people including soldiers and their families. To provide accommodations for this huge population, Military Dependents’ villages were rapidly constructed all over Taiwan. Most of these villages were really tiny and badly constructed. The worst part is that these residents were unable to hold ownership rights as they are staying on state property. Over the years, many of these villages get abandoned or deteriorated into slums for the ageing population over the years. The old postboxes used by those who used to reside in the village still remains.

    In the 1990s, the government embarked on an aggressive village demolition programme to recover the often prime space occupied by these villages. To fend off the government claims to his village, Mr Huang Yong-Fu came up with a artistic way to say no. Popularly referred to as the Rainbow Grandfather, this military veteran started painting colourful murals all over his home, as well as the gates around it and the walkways. He splashed the village with bright colours and painted very random and imaginative figures including plants, animals, monsters, celebrities and traditional cultural heroes.

    Students from the nearby Ling-Tung University noticed his works, took pictures and shared them online. These photos went viral and Rainbow Village soon became a tourist destination. Visitors generously donated and showed their support for the by-then almost 90-year-old artist. His artistic protest, fortunately, gained sufficient sympathy from around the country to stop Taichung mayor’s plans for demolition and rescued the village. Today, some residents still stay in the village.

    Taichung Rainbow Village – Exploring The Art Space 

    Instead of jostling with the crowd, we arrived much later at around 5pm when the sun was about to set. Armed with a DSLR which was able to capture imagery at low light, it was the perfect time to visit the village as we practically had the entire village to ourselves. Even the guard has called it a day!

    Should you visit at a high peak period, you are reminded to walk in an orderly manner through the village narrow walkways and keep your volume low as families still reside in the village.

    Here is a photo of the corridor to help you visualise how narrow some of the walkways were. Capturing a good photo without people in the background would be tough at peak hours.

    We always love corners as they provide interesting light angles and depth. We hope to manage your expectation that this is not a village with large compound, the entire place can be covered (without crowd) in less than fifteen minutes.

    If you come during the ‘official’ opening hours, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the legendary Rainbow Grandfather, Mr Huang.

    Souvenir shops would also be opened and as what this signage state – you can walk in for a nice ice-cream!

    We read from other blogs that if you are lucky you may even meet a performing artist wearing an Iron Man mask.

    We only encountered one family that is still living in the village.

    The village does become dead quiet and eerie once night falls.

    The final portion of the village comprises a small children playground.

    Definitely, an interesting visit but this would probably be one of those places where you will only visit once in a lifetime. If your purpose is to fill your Instagram feed with amazing photos, come during the low peak periods but if you wish to see Mr Huang in person or see the village buzzing with activities, come during the ‘official’ hours. If you are ever in Taichung, we recommend that you come visit the village, spend some time appreciating Mr Huang’s mural arts and donate generously to keep Rainbow Village alive!

    Taichung Rainbow Village

    Address: Taimao 5th Vil., Nantun Dist., Taichung City 408, Taiwan (R.O.C.) | Opening Hours (Official): 8am – 6pm | Tel: 886-4-22289111 | Fees: Nil but feel free to buy some souvenirs or donate to Mr Huang for his works