What to do in Taichung?

Taichung is the third largest city in Taiwan and home to a vibrant cultural hub. From traditional temples to modern shopping centers and bustling night markets, there is something for everyone to experience when visiting the city. So what can you do when visiting Taichung? From sightseeing the famous night markets to learning more about the culture, here are the top great things to do while in Taichung.

1. Visit the Rainbow Village

One of the most iconic sights in Taichung is the Rainbow Village. This charming village was painted over 20 years ago by a war veteran from the region, Huang Yung-Fu, as a way to save it from urban redevelopment. There are now colorful murals of animals and other motifs sprawled around the buildings, which makes for a great photo spot. You can explore with a fun walk or take a rental bike and cycle around or take a guided tour here. Don’t forget to buy some souvenirs to take home with you!

2.Wenhua Road Night Market

One of Taichung’s most iconic night markets, Wen Hwa Road, is visited by thousands yearly. This market has a great mix of street food, retail shops and performing acts that animate the area every night. You’ll find all kinds of local snacks like oyster omelets and stinky tofu. More unique finds include Taiwanese shaved ice, Japanese ramen, fresh fruit drinks and handmade accessories. The variety at this market means everyone can find something they enjoy here. To get here, take bus 104 from Gongyi North Station.

3. Calligraphy Greenway

The Calligraphy Greenway is a linear park that’s just over 8 kilometres long and stretches from Taichung’ centre all the way south to Wuri district. This green passage is great for bike rides, jogging and relaxing walks. At night it lights up with LED lights and pleasant music, including traditional pop songs. There is an old school building at the end of greenway that you can also explore and take pictures of.

4. Museum of Art

The Taichung Art Museum is the home to many cultural events. It has over 2,000 exhibits inside its halls with art various kinds of art displays, such as Chinese calligraphy, photography and sculpture pieces and many others. For those interested in art history, this museum offers a great overview of Taiwan’s culture. Every month there are different exhibitions, so no matter when you visit you can be sure to experience something new and interesting.

5. Gaomei Wetlands

The Gaomei Wetlands is an important ecological area in Taichung and there are boardwalks and trails that let you explore. Here you’ll find plenty of native species of plants and wildlife such as Oystercatchers, Greater White Egrets and Grey Herons. One of the highlights here is “The Six Towers” which is a group of six wind towers that display a unique artwork consisting of LED lights. The view from here at dusk is spectacular and it’s often frequented by photographers looking for that perfect sunset shot.

6. Fulfilling Night Market

Fulfilling Night Market is a great place for some shopping when you’re visiting Taichung. This hip night market offers apparel, books and curry rice, as well as other unique Taiwanese items such as traditional paintings, accessories and snacks like bubble tea or Taiwanese beef noodles. It’s also home to numerous eateries that serve international cuisines like French food and Italian pizza. After grabbing a meal, be sure to check out the many stalls selling goods including vintage clothing and the occasional night show!

7. Rainbow Church

Although it’s often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, the Rainbow Village, Rainbow Church has its own charm. Built in 1925 it looks like a castle with its tall walls and small domes on top. Apart from being a place of worship, this church was designed following Romanesque architecture with numerous intricate details that would make it one of Taichung’s best historic sites if not for its near-complete renovation in 1993 that left only very few period features intact World Monument Fund.

No visit to Taichung would be complete without experiencing some of these amazing attractions firsthand! Whether you’re looking for shopping and food or cultural attractions, this city has something for everyone to enjoy and explore. So prepare your itinerary and don’t miss out on a single moment when visiting Taichung!

An Insider’s Guide to Taichung: Uncovering Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine, Rich Culture, and Unforgettable Experiences

If you’re seeking adventure, culture, and unique experiences, Taichung is the city to visit. Located in the heart of Taiwan, Taichung offers ample opportunities for visitors to explore and discover its rich history, unique cuisine, and hidden attractions. In this insider’s guide to Taichung, we’ll take you off the beaten path and show you some of the city’s best-kept secrets.

Uncovering Hidden Gems

Taichung is full of hidden gems that only locals know about. A must-visit is the Taichung Second Market, which is an authentic, old-style market. Visitors can find fresh produce, traditional snacks, and knick-knacks. Another off-beat location is the Rainbow Village, where a former soldier transformed an old neighbourhood into an outdoor museum with vibrant murals.

For nature lovers, Gaomei Wetlands is a great stop for migratory bird watching. For those up for a bit of adventure, Wuling Farm is familiar for its stunning mountain landscapes and fresh air. Acquiring a permit, you can hike and camp within the boundaries.

Local Cuisine

Taichung has a variety of foods for the curious traveler to try. From street foods like Taichung Cu Shi Bing and Feng Chia Night Market favourite, Hu Chu Bing, to local specialty dishes like Sun Cake, a flaky pastry with maltose filling, and rice wine with ginger. Visitors should experience Yizhong Street for its snack stalls and local flavours, especially the Ti Hua Mi Hsin Tung, a famous rice pudding store.

Rich Culture

Culture enthusiasts will find a wealth of experiences in Taichung. Traditional festivals like the Pu-Yang Tzu Chi Lantern Festival, which occurs after Chinese New Year, feature intricate lantern displays and provide an insight into the local culture. The National Museum of Natural Science showcases Taiwan’s ecological and scientific achievements with interactive exhibits; while the National Taichung Theater, with its onion-shaped structure, is an award-winning masterpiece of modern architecture, and houses various performances.

Local History

Taichung’s rich history is preserved in several sites, such as the “Rainbow Military Dependents’ Village,” a former military community set up by the Nationalist government in the 1940s. Another landmark to visit is the Taichung City Seaport Art Centre, a restored historic building that presents the city’s past as a vital port for Taiwan’s development.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Beyond the tourist trail, travellers can go to Tunghai University to see the famous Luce Chapel, an architectural masterpiece, and admire its geometric form. Another suggestion is to visit Fengyuan district for its tranquil environment, century-old architecture, and local markets.

Wrap Up

Taichung is not just a tourist destination; this city offers a unique perspective into Taiwan’s culture, history, food, and local living. Only Taiwan locals know the secrets of Taichung, and we hope this insider’s guide gives you inspiration for the most unforgettable vacation.