Jiaoxi Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and more in Jiaoxi, Taiwan with our helpful tour guide.


Introduction to Jiaoxi

Jiaoxi is a small town located in Yilan County in Eastern Taiwan, known for its hot springs, natural attractions, and local cuisine. Here, visitors can experience the beauty of Taiwan’s countryside and immerse themselves in the local culture. Jiaoxi is a great destination for anyone looking to explore Taiwan beyond the hustle and bustle of its cities.

List of Places to Visit in Jiaoxi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jiaoxi Hot Springs Park - a public park with a variety of hot spring pools for visitors to soak in.
  • Tangweigou Hot Springs Park - a modern hot spring park that offers a variety of spa services and outdoor baths.
  • Jiaoxi Railway Station - an iconic historical landmark in Jiaoxi that has been preserved as a cultural heritage site.
  • Jiaoxi Cultural Park - a park with a museum and historical exhibitions that showcase the traditional culture of Taiwan.

Natural Attractions of Jiaoxi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wufengqi Waterfall - a stunning waterfall located in the lush green mountains of Jiaoxi.
  • Liaoxi River - a natural stream that flows through the town and offers beautiful views.
  • Qilan Forest Recreation Area - a scenic area that offers hiking trails, camping, and outdoor activities.
  • Taiping Mountain - a popular hiking spot that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jiaoxi

  • Taiping Mountain Trail - a scenic hike that takes visitors to the peak of Taiping Mountain for breathtaking views.
  • Lala Shan Trail - a challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • Jiaoxi Cycling Trail - a scenic bike trail that takes visitors through the countryside and along the Liaoxi River.

Best Things to Do in Jiaoxi: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Springs Experience - soak in the natural hot springs and enjoy a spa treatment at one of the many hot spring resorts in Jiaoxi.
  • Local Food Tour - explore the local food scene and try traditional Taiwanese dishes like beef noodle soup, scallion pancakes, and bubble tea.
  • Cultural Experience - visit the Jiaoxi Cultural Park and learn about the traditional culture of Taiwan through exhibits and workshops.
  • Outdoor Adventure - go hiking or cycling in the surrounding mountains and soak in the natural beauty of Jiaoxi.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jiaoxi

Day Itinerary
1 Arrival in Jiaoxi and visit Jiaoxi Hot Springs Park
2 Hiking in Taiping Mountain and visit Jiaoxi Cultural Park
3 Liaoxi River excursion and local food tour
4 Relaxing day at Tangweigou Hot Springs Park
5 Cycling on Jiaoxi Cycling Trail and visit Wufengqi Waterfall
6 Outdoor adventure in Qilan Forest Recreation Area
7 Departure from Jiaoxi

Food and Drink Scene of Jiaoxi

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beef Noodle Soup - a traditional Taiwanese dish made with slow-cooked beef and wheat noodles.
  • Scallion Pancakes - a crispy pancake filled with chopped scallions and served with soy sauce.
  • Bubble Tea - a popular Taiwanese drink made with tea, milk, and tapioca pearls.
  • Yilan-style Rice Noodles - a staple food in Yilan County made with rice flour and served with a variety of toppings.

Local Beverages

  • Jiaoxi Spring Water - mineral-rich water that comes from the hot springs in Jiaoxi and is said to have health benefits.
  • Yilan Beer - locally brewed beer that is popular in Yilan County.
  • Milk Tea - a sweet tea drink that is popular throughout Taiwan, made with tea, milk, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Jiaoxi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Tangweigou Hot Springs Hotel - a luxury hotel that offers hot springs and spa services.
  • Silks Place Yilan - a five-star hotel with an outdoor pool and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Kavalan Hotel - a budget-friendly hotel that offers modern rooms and a convenient location near Jiaoxi Railway Station.
  • Jiaoxi Backpacker Hostel - a cozy hostel with a communal kitchen and lounge area for travelers on a budget.

What to Buy in Jiaoxi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Jiaoxi Spring Water - bottled water from the hot springs in Jiaoxi, known for its minerals and health benefits.
  • Yilan-Style Rice Noodles - locally made rice noodles that are a staple food in Yilan County.
  • Handcrafted Souvenirs - items like pottery, handmade soap, or traditional Taiwanese crafts can be found in local markets and specialty shops in Jiaoxi.

Local Culture and Customs of Jiaoxi

Taiwanese culture is a mix of the country’s indigenous population, Chinese culture, and Japanese influence during the colonial period. Visitors to Jiaoxi can experience a unique blend of these cultures through the local food, art, and festivals. Respect for elders and family values are also an integral part of Taiwanese culture, and visitors should be mindful of customs and etiquettes related to this.

Best Time to Visit Jiaoxi

The best time to visit Jiaoxi is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the scenery is stunning. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be chilly and rainy. Visitors should also check the schedule of local festivals and events to get a taste of the local culture.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jiaoxi

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs, including proper etiquette toward elders.
  • Try local food and drink.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of Jiaoxi.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting cultural sites or temples.
  • Be rude or impolite to locals.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jiaoxi

Jiaoxi is generally a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should take the usual precautions, such as securing valuables and being aware of their surroundings. The hot springs in Jiaoxi can be dangerous if not used properly, so visitors should follow the rules and regulations of the hot spring resorts.

Health in Jiaoxi

Jiaoxi is a safe destination in terms of health, but visitors should still take the usual precautions, such as washing hands frequently and drinking bottled water. Visitors should also be aware of the health risks associated with hot springs, such as skin irritation or burns from the hot water.

Getting to Jiaoxi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jiaoxi

The nearest airport to Jiaoxi is Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, which is about a 90-minute drive away. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from the airport to Jiaoxi.

Bus Stations Near Jiaoxi

Jiaoxi Bus Station is located near Jiaoxi Railway Station and offers bus services to cities throughout Taiwan, including Taipei and Yilan City.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train to Jiaoxi Railway Station, which is located in the center of town and offers easy access to local attractions.

How to Get Around in Jiaoxi

Visitors can easily explore Jiaoxi on foot, as most attractions and shops are located within walking distance of each other. Bicycles and scooters can also be rented to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Jiaoxi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Yilan City - a bustling city located just a short drive from Jiaoxi, known for its local food and night market.
  • Taroko National Park - a stunning national park located in the mountains of eastern Taiwan, known for its breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails.
  • Luodong Night Market - a famous night market in Yilan County that offers a variety of food and shopping options.

Conclusion

Jiaoxi offers a unique blend of natural beauty, local culture, and hot springs that make it a must-visit destination in Taiwan. From hiking and cycling to soaking in the hot springs and exploring the local food scene, there is something for everyone in Jiaoxi. With this comprehensive tour guide, visitors can plan the ultimate Jiaoxi itinerary and make the most of their trip to Taiwan.