Changhua County Travel Guide

Discover the best natural and cultural attractions in Changhua County, Taiwan with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best activities, food, and accommodations, and learn about the local culture and customs.


Changhua County, located in Central Taiwan, is known for its natural and cultural attractions. From towering mountains to historic landmarks, the county boasts a diverse range of experiences for visitors. This comprehensive guide will take you through the best places to visit, activities, food, accommodations, and cultural customs in Changhua County, Taiwan.

Introduction to Changhua County

Changhua County is a predominantly agricultural region that has become a popular tourist destination for its natural and cultural attractions. The county is located in Central Taiwan, bordered by Taichung City to the north, Nantou County to the east, and Yunlin County to the south. Changhua is known for its historic landmarks, delicious food, and stunning natural scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Changhua County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Changhua County has a rich history, and there are many historical places and museums worth visiting. Here are some of the top cultural attractions in Changhua:

  • Lukang Township: This old town is situated on the west coast of Changhua County and is famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture, temples, and old streets.
  • Baguashan Great Buddha: Baguashan is a popular pilgrimage site, and it houses the country’s largest outdoor bronze Buddha statue.
  • Changhua Confucius Temple: This is one of the oldest Confucian temples in Taiwan and was built in 1726. It’s an excellent place to explore traditional architecture and enjoy a quiet stroll.
  • Taiwan Glass Gallery: This museum showcases a vast collection of glass art and is one of the most popular museums in the county.

Natural Attractions of Changhua County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Changhua County is home to breathtaking mountains, lakes, and outdoor attractions. Here are the top natural attractions to explore in Changhua:

  • Tianwei Highway Garden: This scenic garden is situated on the hills that overlook Changhua City and is known for its unique landscape design, Changhua windmill, and picturesque views.
  • Baguashan Skywalk: This skywalk is located near the Great Buddha statue and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Guguan Nature Trail: This hiking trail is perfect for nature lovers and bird-watchers. The trail covers 1.2 kilometers and provides an incredible view of the surrounding forest.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Changhua County

Changhua County is full of scenic hiking and biking trails, some of which are listed below:

  • Lugang Old Street Bike Trail: This bike trail is perfect for those interested in exploring the traditional architecture in Lukang Township.
  • Guguan Suspension Bridge Trail: This hiking trail covers 6.7 kilometers and includes a suspension bridge and a picturesque waterfall.
  • Dachengyu Bike Trail: This 45-kilometer bike trail is perfect for experienced cyclists and adventure seekers. The trail covers the plains, hills, and forests of Changhua County.

Best Things to Do in Changhua County: Activities and Tours

There are numerous activities and tours to enjoy in Changhua County, including:

  • Fruit Picking: Changhua is known for its fruit farms, and many allow visitors to pick their fruit during the harvest season.
  • Eco-Tour: There are various eco-tour programs in the county that take visitors through the breathtaking nature reserves and forests.
  • Arts and Crafts Tour: This tour focuses on exploring the traditional arts and crafts of Changhua County.

Week-Long Itinerary for Changhua County

Day 1 - Lukang Township Day 2 - Baguashan Great Buddha and Confucius Temple Day 3 - Tianwei Highway Garden and Guguan Nature Trail Day 4 - Explore local food and markets Day 5 - Dachengyu Bike Trail Day 6 - Taiwan Glass Gallery and Baguashan Skywalk Day 7 - Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Changhua County

Changhua County is famous for its delicious food and beverages, including:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ba-wan: This is a traditional Taiwanese dish, made from a mixture of pork, mushroom, and bamboo shoots wrapped in a steamed rice flour skin.
  • Ma La Flavored Vermicelli: This spicy and sour noodle dish is a staple in Changhua and is made with a mixture of vegetables and meat.
  • Rice Dumplings: These glutinous rice balls are filled with savory fillings such as mushrooms, pork, and bamboo shoots.

    Local Beverages

  • Shaoxing Wine: This is a Chinese rice wine made in Changhua County.
  • A-Li Shan Spring Water: This bottled water is obtained from a natural spring in the A-Li Shan Mountain range and is considered some of the freshest and best-tasting water in Taiwan.

Where to Stay in Changhua County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Changhua County offers various types of accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Uni-Resort Lukang: This is a luxurious resort located in Lukang Township and is perfect for those looking for comfort and luxury.
  • Top City Taichung Hotel: This hotel is located in downtown Taichung City and is perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Hostel California: This hostel is situated in the heart of Lukang Old Street and is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly stay.

What to Buy in Changhua County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Changhua County has various local products that make perfect souvenirs, including:

  • Lukang Tea: This high-quality tea is grown in the hills surrounding Lukang Township.
  • Handmade Glass Art: Changhua County has a long history of glass-making, and many local artisans create stunning glass art pieces that make perfect gifts.
  • Ba-wan: These traditional Taiwanese snacks are easy to pack and make an excellent souvenir for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Changhua County

Changhua County has a deep-rooted cultural heritage, and it’s important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette when visiting. Here are some of the customs to keep in mind:

  • Remove shoes before entering temples and traditional houses
  • Do not touch the Buddha statues at temples
  • Respect the elders and authority figures
  • Always pour tea for others before yourself

Best Time to Visit Changhua County

The best time to visit Changhua County is during the spring and fall (April to June and September to November), when the weather is mild, and the scenery is spectacular.

Do’s and Don’ts of Changhua County

Do:

  • Respect the customs and culture
  • Taste traditional food and beer
  • Explore the natural wonders

    Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting temples
  • Disrespect the elderly or authority figures

Safety and Health

Safety in Changhua County

Changhua County is considered a relatively safe place to visit, with low crime rates. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially when traveling alone at night.

Health in Changhua County

The health care system in Changhua County is well-developed, and many hospitals and clinics are available. It’s important to have travel insurance before visiting Changhua, as most medical treatments can be expensive.

Getting to Changhua County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Changhua County is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near Changhua County

  • Taichung International Airport
  • Taipei International Airport

    Bus Stations Near Changhua County

  • Taichung Bus Station
  • Changhua Bus Station
  • Puli Bus Station

    Other Options

  • Taxi Services
  • Car Rentals

How to Get Around in Changhua County

Changhua County has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and trains, making it easy to explore the area. It’s also possible to rent a car or a scooter for added convenience.

Where to Go Next from Changhua County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations and excursions to consider when leaving Changhua County, such as:

  • Taichung City: The largest city in central Taiwan, Taichung is known for its vibrant art scene and shopping districts.
  • Sun Moon Lake: This stunning lake is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful scenery and hiking trails.
  • Alishan National Forest Recreation Area: This national park is famous for its scenic view of sunrise and sunset viewed at its well-known peak “Alishan High Standing”.

Conclusion

Changhua County is a hidden gem in Taiwan, offering a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions, delicious food and drinks, and comfortable accommodations. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan your visit and explore the best Changhua County has to offer.

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