Zhudong Travel Guide

Get ready to discover the cultural, natural, food, and adventurous destinations in Zhudong, Taiwan. This comprehensive travel guide helps you plan out your travel itinerary, packing tips, and provides information about the attractions, food, accommodations, and transportation to the town.


Introduction to Zhudong

Zhudong is a charming township in Hsinchu County, Northern Taiwan. The town is known for its cultural and historical significance, scenic views, and outdoor adventures. The locals are friendly, and the atmosphere is tranquil and peaceful - far from the busy city life. The best time to visit Zhudong is during spring when the weather is cool and the flowers are in bloom. The town can be easily navigated on foot or by bike, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a relaxing and affordable getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Zhudong

There are plenty of things to do and routes to explore in Zhudong. Depending on your interests, here’s a list of the top destinations that you must visit.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Zhudong Folk Museum

The Zhudong Folk Museum is one of the must-see attractions in the town. It features a vast collection of artifacts that showcase the traditional folk practices of the area. It is an excellent way to learn about local customs, clothing, leisure activities, and architecture.

Chunan Old Street

Chunan Old Street is a nostalgic walk through lanes and alleys, lined with preserved historical buildings and traditional shops. The street is famous for its snack stands and local souvenirs.

Natural Attractions of Zhudong: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Xinhua Park

Xinhua Park is a beautiful place to experience the natural beauty of Zhudong. The park features a pond that offers paddleboat rentals and swan boats; the park is also home to ecological tours, bird-watching, and other outdoor activities.

Neiwan Scenic Area

Neiwan Scenic Area is a tranquil place to relax and explore the lush greenery of the region. The area offers stunning views of mountains, waterfalls, and is excellent for hiking and leisurely walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zhudong

Zhudong is a great place to explore on two wheels, and the town offers several bike routes to discover the scenic landscapes of the area. Zhudong Bicycle Track is a popular route, crossing through various parts of the township, and stretches to the neighboring towns. Another route is the Neiwan-Zhudong Bicycle Trail, a scenic track that runs through Yianzu and Hushanle, giving visitors an up-close view of nature.

Best Things to Do in Zhudong: Activities and Tours

Zhudong offers several exciting activities and tours, perfect for those who want to explore the cultural and scenic landscapes of the area. Some of the top activities and tours include:

  • Zhudong Lantern Festival - a festival of lights and lanterns.
  • Rafting and canoeing down the Dahan River.
  • The Zhudong Night Market - a fantastic place to try local snacks and street food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zhudong

To help you plan your trip in Zhudong, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day Destination
1 Hsinchu Zoo Park and Xiangshan Scenic Area
2 Xinhua Park and Liangchih Fishing Ground
3 Chunan Old Street, Zhudong Folk Museum, and Lions Club Ecological Forest Park
4 Daxueshan National Forest, Luoshan Village, and Neiwan Cultural Park
5 Neiwan Scenic Area and Wufengqi Waterfall
6 Zhudong Night Market and Neiwan-Zhudong Bicycle Trail
7 Dahan River Rafting and Zhudong Lantern Festival

Food and Drink Scene of Zhudong

Must-Try Dishes

Zhudong is famous for its local delicacies, and a visit to the town is incomplete without trying these dishes:

  • Zhudong Vermicelli - thin, transparent noodles made from sweet potato starch, eaten with a variety of toppings.
  • Bamboo Rice - glutinous rice cooked inside a bamboo, infused with the aroma of bamboo and served with braised meat and vegetables.
  • Fried Radish Cakes

Local Beverages

When it comes to drinks, Zhudong has a lot to offer:

  • Shihlin Self-Service Drinks Stand - a famous drink-stop for the locals, this place offers a variety of cold drinks and snacks.
  • Xianshan Tea House - A traditional tea house serving authentic Taiwanese tea and snacks.
  • Haoledi Brewery - a local brewery that offers craft beer and tours of the brewery.

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

Zhudong offers a variety of accommodations for all budgets:

  • Vogue Kangnian Hotel - a modern and comfortable hotel situated in the heart of the town.
  • Neiwan Classic Hostel - a traditional restored house that offers cozy rooms and a homely atmosphere.
  • Li Jin Li Guesthouse - a guesthouse located in the quiet village of Liangchih, with a picturesque scenery of tea fields and mountains.

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

Zhudong is known for its bamboo crafts and handmade trinkets. You can find several shops and stalls selling these items:

  • Linseng Tea Co. - a local tea shop that sells tea and related products.
  • You Lan La Tea House - a vintage tea house that offers a wide range of herbal teas, teapots, and cups.
  • Bamboo Craft Shops - shops that sell handmade bamboo crafts, such as baskets, lampshades, and decorative items.

Local Culture and Customs of Zhudong

Zhudong’s cultural identity is a blend of Chinese culture and the indigenous culture of the Atayal tribe. The locals have preserved ancient customs that include dragon boat racing, lantern festivals, and traditional opera performances. The people are hospitable and warm, and they take pride in their town’s heritage.

Best Time to Visit Zhudong

The best time to visit Zhudong is during spring (March to May) when the weather is cool and the flowers are in bloom. It is also an excellent time to witness the lantern festival and the dragon boat races.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zhudong

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisines and drinks.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and leisurely walks.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Wear revealing clothes when visiting temples or other religious sites.
  • Speak loudly or disrespectfully in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zhudong

Zhudong is a safe place to visit, and the crime rate is low. However, it is always wise to take precautions when travelling, such as locking your valuables in the hotel and being mindful of your surroundings.

Health in Zhudong

The health care system in Taiwan is well-developed, and there are several hospitals and clinics in the area that cater to emergencies and regular check-ups.

Getting to Zhudong: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zhudong

The nearest airport to Zhudong is Taoyuan International Airport, which is approximately 70 km from the town. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Zhudong.

Bus Stations Near Zhudong

Zhudong Bus Station is the main transportation hub, and it connects Zhudong to other towns and cities in Taiwan.

Other Options

Driving to Zhudong is also an option, and the town is well-connected to several major highways in Taiwan.

How to Get Around in Zhudong

Zhudong is a walkable town, and it is best explored on foot. Bikes and motorbikes are also available for rent at reasonable prices.

Where to Go Next from Zhudong: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations that you can explore from Zhudong, such as:

  • Hsinchu City - a bustling city known for its universities, science parks, and historical sites.
  • Hukou Old Street - an old town famous for its preserved architecture and traditional handicrafts.
  • Wufengqi Scenic Area - a beautiful spot for hiking and scenic views.

Conclusion

Zhudong is an ideal destination for those who want to experience the cultural and natural beauty of Taiwan. The town offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, and visitors are sure to leave with fond memories of the place. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan your trip to Zhudong!