Miaoli County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay and more in Miaoli County with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Miaoli County

Miaoli County, located in central Taiwan, is known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich history, and delicious local cuisine. The county has a population of around half a million people and comprises 18 townships, making it one of the smallest counties in Taiwan by land area. Despite its size, Miaoli County offers a wealth of activities and attractions for travelers, from hiking and cycling trails to museums and traditional markets.

List of Places to Visit in Miaoli County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Miaoli Railway Museum: This interactive museum showcases the history of Taiwan’s railways and offers visitors the chance to ride on historic trains.
  • Miaoli Hakka Cultural Park: Learn about the Hakka people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous groups, at this cultural park which features traditional architecture and exhibitions on Hakka culture.
  • Zhunan Ceramic Arts Hall: Exhibits ceramic art created by local artists and offers opportunities for visitors to try their hand at the craft.
  • Lukang Old Street: Known for its well-preserved historic buildings and traditional handicrafts, Lukang Old Street is a popular tourist spot.

Natural Attractions of Miaoli County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shitoushan National Forest Recreation Area: Located in the mountains of Miaoli County, this recreation area offers hiking trails, camping opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Hanging Bridge of Qingshan: This suspension bridge stretches across a ravine and offers a thrilling experience for visitors.
  • Xueshan Tunnel: A popular cycling route, the Xueshan Tunnel offers both natural beauty and an exciting cycling challenge.
  • Tai’an Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery around Tai’an.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Miaoli County

  • Miaoli Great Mountain Trail: This trail covers a distance of around 90 km in total and offers stunning views of the mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Xiaobantian Trail: Starting from Miaoli City, this trail takes hikers through a beautiful forest and offers opportunities to see different species of birds and butterflies.
  • Fenghuang Trail: With a distance of around 4 km, this trail takes visitors to the top of Fenghuang Mountain, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Miaoli County.

Best Things to Do in Miaoli County: Activities and Tours

  • Fruit Picking: Miaoli County is known for its abundant fruit orchards, and visitors can participate in various fruit picking activities, including strawberry and grape picking.
  • Night Market Tours: Miaoli County has several traditional night markets where visitors can try the local food and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Farm Stay: For a unique experience, visitors can stay on a farm and experience the daily life of Taiwanese farmers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Miaoli County

Day Itinerary
1 Visit Miaoli Railway Museum and Miaoli Hakka Cultural Park
2 Explore Lukang Old Street and Zhunan Ceramic Arts Hall
3 Hike in Shitoushan National Forest Recreation Area
4 Cycle through the Xueshan Tunnel
5 Relax in Tai’an Hot Springs
6 Try fruit picking at a local orchard
7 Take a night market tour and experience Taiwanese street food

Food and Drink Scene in Miaoli County

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hakka Lei Cha: A traditional Hakka dish that consists of tea soup with ground tea leaves, preserved vegetables, and served with rice and different toppings.
  • Miaoli Beef Noodle Soup: A famous dish in Miaoli County, this noodle soup is made with tender beef and a flavorful broth.
  • Fried Hakka Dumplings: Fried dumplings filled with ground pork and vegetables, commonly eaten as a snack in Miaoli County.

Local Beverages

  • Xinpu Lemonade: Made from locally grown lemons in Xinpu Township, this refreshing drink is popular among locals and visitors alike.
  • Miaoli Rice Wine: Made from locally grown rice, this alcoholic beverage is a must-try for visitors who want to experience Miaoli’s unique flavor.

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

  • Miaoli Maison de Chine Hotel: A luxurious hotel with a stunning outdoor pool and traditional Thai-style spa.
  • Box Hotel Miaoli: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Miaoli City.
  • Tea Cloud B&B: A cozy bed and breakfast that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

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

  • Hakka Embroidery: A traditional handicraft in Miaoli County, Hakka embroidery features colorful designs and intricate details.
  • Pineapple Cake: A popular snack in Taiwan, the pineapple cake is a must-try for visitors to Miaoli County.
  • Xinpu Tung Blossom Honey: Known for its unique flavor, this local honey is a great souvenir to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Miaoli County

Miaoli County has a rich history and culture, with a mix of indigenous and immigrant groups. The Hakka people, known for their unique architecture, cuisine, and customs, are a prominent cultural group in Miaoli County. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Miaoli County by visiting various museums and cultural parks.

Best Time to Visit Miaoli County

The best time to visit Miaoli County is from October to December when the weather is cool and dry. Spring and summer can be hot and humid, but also offer opportunities to experience local festivals and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Miaoli County

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the natural beauty of Miaoli County on foot or by bike.
  • Visit the night markets for a unique shopping and dining experience.
  • Learn about the history and culture of Miaoli County through its museums and cultural parks.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural parks and outdoor areas.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  • Leave your belongings unattended in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Miaoli County

Miaoli County is generally safe for travelers, but visitors should be cautious when hiking or cycling in the mountains. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and wear appropriate clothing and gear. It’s also important to be aware of traffic when cycling on the roads.

Health in Miaoli County

Tap water in Miaoli County is generally safe to drink, but visitors with sensitive stomachs may prefer to drink bottled water. Mosquitoes can be a problem during the summer months, so it’s recommended to bring insect repellent.

Getting to Miaoli County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Miaoli County

The nearest airport to Miaoli County is Taichung International Airport, located around 45 km away. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, which is around 90 km away.

Bus Stations Near Miaoli County

Miaoli Bus Station is located in the center of Miaoli City and offers bus connections to other parts of Taiwan, including Taipei and Taichung.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Miaoli County by train, with stations located in various townships throughout the county. Car rental is also available, with major international car rental companies operating in Taiwan.

How to Get Around in Miaoli County

The best way to get around Miaoli County is by car or scooter, which can be rented from various rental companies in Miaoli City. Alternatively, visitors can use public transportation such as buses and trains to travel between townships.

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

  • Taichung: Known as the cultural capital of Taiwan, Taichung is located around 40 km away from Miaoli County and offers a range of museums, art galleries, and night markets.
  • Hsinchu: Located around 50 km away from Miaoli County, Hsinchu is known for its high-tech industries and has several well-preserved historic sites worth exploring.
  • Sun Moon Lake: One of the most popular tourist destinations in Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is located around 70 km away from Miaoli County and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Conclusion

Miaoli County, with its natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, is a must-visit destination for travelers to Taiwan. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, experiencing local culture, or trying unique foods and drinks, Miaoli County has something to offer for everyone.



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