One hundred miles down the coast from Taipei lies Taichung, Taiwan’s second-largest city. Often referred to as the country’s cultural capital, Taichung offers visitors unique art, fascinating history and delicious cuisine.
Here’s a guide to how clients can pack the best of the city into a fun-filled weekend.
Day One
Taichung’s abundance of beautiful public spaces makes exploring the area both accessible and relaxing. Hop on a train to Fengyuan Station and find bike rental options galore, from road bikes to electric bikes and even tandem electric bikes.
From there, the Hou-Feng bikeway leads cyclists down a leisurely path through a narrow tunnel, over an iron bridge and past picturesque farmhouses. Built on an old mountain railway line, the path also displays abandoned stations and colorful train cars.
After returning to the city center, cool down with a legendary glass of iced milk tea. While the origins of the first bubble milk tea are widely debated throughout Taiwan, teahouse chain Chun Shui Tang has the most legitimate claim on this beloved creation. Clients who try this bona fide boba can experience the authenticity for themselves.
If travelers still have not satisfied their sweet tooth, they should head over to Miyahara Ice Cream. Renovated from the remnants of a Japanese colonial building, this ice cream shop’s architecture is almost as wonderful as its flavor selection; chocoholics can choose from 18 variations of chocolate.
An evening in Taichung is incomplete without a walk through Calligraphy Greenway at golden hour. On a clear evening, this sprawling 2.2-mile-long urban park is sure to be occupied by adorable dogs playing on the lawn while busking musicians add to the idyllic atmosphere. Parkgoers can shop for local handmade goods from street vendors or check out the variety of museums at either end of the path.
Day Two
The next morning, dive into the local food scene with a traditional Taiwanese breakfast at Taichung Second Market. Built in 1917, this market is home to a number of hidden gems. Be sure to recommend the Wang Family’s breakfast combo of fried radish cake, rice sausage and egg; the shop is located near the market’s main entrance.
After breakfast, art lovers shouldn’t miss a trip to Rainbow Village. Walking through this vibrant settlement is comparable to walking through a surrealist painting.
For dinner, suggest the sprawling food stands of Fengjia Night Market, where adventurous eaters may dare to try the sea snails or fresh abalone. Fengjia is also home to nearly every other Taiwanese night market staple, such as grilled mushrooms, fried chicken and sweet potato puffs.
The Details
Taiwan Tourism Bureau
eng.taiwan.net.tw
