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1. Enjoy a Scenic Tour to Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is undoubtedly Taiwan's No.1 natural scenery. Just 1.5 hours from Taichung, Sun Moon Lake is the kind of place that makes you slow down and take a deep breath. The lake is shaped like a sun and a moon (hence the name), and the views are just stunning.
The best way to enjoy it?
- Take a boat cruise across the calm waters
- Rent a bike to circle the lake on the scenic bike trail
- Ride the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway for a bird’s-eye view
Along the way, stop by attractions like Wenwu Temple, the Ita Thao indigenous village, and Ci’en Pagoda.
Don’t miss the lake's famous black tea and local snacks, like tea eggs and millet mochi.
It’s the perfect day trip from Taichung, peaceful, photogenic, and refreshing.
Want more details of the lake? Check Sun Moon Lake Guide>>
Taichung to Alishan Train, Bus or Car in 3 Hrs via Chiayi (2025)
2. Ride the Forest Railway at Alishan
Alishan is one of Taiwan’s most iconic mountain areas, known for its misty forests, ancient trees, and stunning sunrises. From Taichung, you can reach it by car or by taking the train to Chiayi, then continuing up the mountain.
One of the best experiences is riding the historic Alishan Forest Railway. This 5-hour train ride will take you winding through dense cypress woods and into the clouds. (Tickets are limited!)
Once at the top, you can take the Alishan Forest Railway branch line to Chaoping or Scared Tree. Or hike forest trails past thousand-year-old trees, sister lakes, and visit Shouzhen Temple.
If you want to meet an unforgettable sunrise, remember to book the hotel in advance. Take the Forest Railway to Chushan Station in the early morning, and wait for a golden sunrise above the ”sea of clouds”.
Alishan feels like stepping into a fairytale — quiet, cool, and filled with nature’s beauty.
Taichung to Alishan Train, Bus or Car in 3 Hrs via Chiayi (2025)
3. Escape to Qingjing Farm to Enjoy Fresh Air and Farm Vibes
Cingjing Farm (or Qingjing) is a highland escape with rolling green hills, cool mountain air, and wide-open views. It’s about a 2–2.5 hour drive from Taichung, making it an ideal day trip or overnight stay.
This is where you’ll see fluffy sheep grazing on European-style pastures — a rare sight in Taiwan! You can feed the animals (like sheep or horse), watch sheep-shearing shows, horse-riding shows, and walk the famous Green Green Grasslands trail.
There are also Swiss-style B&Bs, fruit farms, and great views of the Central Mountain Range. If you want a relaxing break from the city, Cingjing Farm offers that countryside charm and clean air you’ll love.
4. Night Market Hopping in Taichung
If Taichung shines during the day, it comes alive at night — especially at the night markets.
The biggest and most famous is Feng Chia Night Market. It's a total food playground. Stinky tofu, XXL fried chicken, bubble tea, cheese potatoes — you name it, they have it. It’s crowded, loud, and absolutely delicious.
Prefer something more local and low-key? Try Yizhong Street Night Market near universities — it’s full of student vibes and cheap eats.
And if you’re into old-school Taiwanese street food, Zhongxiao Road Night Market is your spot. Not touristy, just pure local flavor.
Come hungry, leave happy. That’s the night market rule.
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5. Snap Colorful Photos at Rainbow Village
This place isn’t big — but it’s bursting with color. Rainbow Village was once a simple military dependents’ village. That is, until one retired soldier (lovingly known as “Grandpa Rainbow”) picked up a brush and started painting every surface with colorful doodles, animals, people, and happy messages.
Now, it’s a top Instagram spot in Taichung. The whole area is a living art project — cheerful, fun, and totally unique. It’s not about huge exhibits or galleries. It’s about heart. And a little bit of magic.
You don’t need more than 30–45 minutes here, but the vibes are so bright you’ll leave smiling. There’s a small souvenir shop and sometimes Grandpa Rainbow himself is there (though he’s well into his 90s now).
Pro tip: come early to avoid crowds, and wear something colorful to match the murals. You’ll get the cutest photos of your trip.
6. Golden Skies and Windmills: Sunset Magic at Gaomei Wetlands
When it comes to breathtaking sunsets, Gaomei Wetlands is hard to beat.
Located about an hour from central Taichung, this coastal spot is famous for its wooden boardwalk, rows of wind turbines, and golden hour views. As the tide comes in and the sky turns orange, the shallow water creates a giant mirror — it’s like walking on the sky.
Besides the view, Gaomei is also a protected area full of wildlife, especially crabs and birds. Kids love spotting little creatures under the walkway, and photographers go crazy during dusk. It’s windy (so bring a jacket), but the salty breeze just adds to the charm.
The best time to go? Late afternoon. Arrive before sunset, take a walk, and stay until the lights reflect off the water. It’s peaceful, romantic, and one of Taichung’s most memorable experiences — especially if you catch it on a clear day.
7. Taichung City Walk: From Museum Park to Calligraphy Greenway
Want a chill way to explore Taichung? Start from the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, then wander along the leafy Art Park Way — a peaceful area lined with sculptures, art spaces, and cafés.
Keep walking and you’ll hit the Calligraphy Greenway, a long green stretch connecting the art museum to the Natural Science Museum. It’s a creative, walkable part of the city, full of murals, cool design shops, and indie cafés. Perfect for a lazy afternoon stroll.
You might stumble upon pop-up events, street performers, or even a craft fair. No rush here — just take your time and soak in Taichung’s chill city vibe.
8. Admire the Design at National Taichung Theater
Even if you don’t plan to watch a show, Taichung’s National Theater is worth visiting for the architecture alone. Designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito, this building looks like something out of the future. No straight lines — just curves, waves, and flowing spaces that feel like a mix of a cave, a cloud, and a spaceship.
Inside, there are multiple floors open to the public, including a rooftop garden, bookshop, and cafés. Walk through the organic-shaped hallways, take some moody photos, and feel like you’re in a piece of modern art.
It’s especially pretty at night when the lights come on. Even the exterior walls glow in changing colors. If you’re into design, this is a must-see. If not, it’s still a chill place to hang out, sip coffee, and admire the vibe. Sometimes they even have free outdoor performances or pop-up art shows.
9. Visit Dajia Jenn Lann Temple to Feel the Faith
Want to feel the spiritual pulse of central Taiwan? Head to Dajia Jenn Lann Temple. This 200-year-old temple is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea — and she’s a big deal in Taiwan. Locals come to pray for safety, blessings, and smooth journeys.
The temple itself is stunning. Dragons, lanterns, wood carvings, and incense fill the air with a sense of ancient reverence. Even if you’re not religious, you’ll feel the energy.
During normal days, it’s peaceful. But if you visit during the Mazu Pilgrimage Festival (usually in spring), the whole town lights up with parades, fireworks, and huge crowds.
Don’t forget to grab some temple snacks from the nearby stalls — peanut ice cream rolls, mochi, and more. Dajia isn’t in the city center, but it’s well worth a detour if you want to see authentic local culture in action.
10 Famous Temples in Taiwan, from Mazu to Buddha
10. Hike the Dakeng Trails (大坑风景区)
Need a nature fix? Dakeng Scenic Area is the green backyard of Taichung. Just a short ride from the city, Dakeng is full of hiking trails that wind through forests, ridges, and scenic lookouts.
The most famous are Trails 1 to 10, each with different levels of difficulty.
If you’re feeling brave, try Trail No. 4 or 5 — they’re wooden plank paths on steep ridges with open views (and no handrails!). Not for the faint-hearted, but the experience is unforgettable.
For a more relaxing walk, Trail 9 and 10 are flatter and family-friendly.
Along the way, you’ll pass bamboo groves, giant ferns, and local hikers — some even doing morning tai chi.
There’s no entrance fee, just fresh air and beautiful scenery. Wear good shoes, bring water, and come early before the sun gets too hot. You’ll see a wilder, greener side of Taichung.
Travel to Taichung & Taiwan with Asia Odyssey Travel
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