hsinchu county tourist attractions

City Guides , Taiwan · November 10, 2021

13 Unmissable Things to do in Hsinchu: A Local’s Guide

If you’re looking for things to do in Hsinchu, this list is 110% for you! 

Often touted as somewhat of a dull city, Hsinchu City (新竹) actually has a lot going for it. I’ve lived in Hsinchu for more than ten years, and while it was a rather boring place when I just landed, it has changed  a lot  over the past few years. Today, Hsinchu is so much more than just another concrete-jungle studded city in Taiwan. In fact, it’s jam-packed with quirky outdoor art installations, bustling food markets, scenic parks, and plenty to do. 

Whether you’re visiting Hsinchu City on a  day trip from Taipei  or planning a quick weekend jaunt, there are loads to keep you busy!  Here’s my insider’s guide on the very best things to do in Hsinchu! 

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Table of Contents

The Best Things to do in Hsinchu City

Wander along the hsinchu moat park.

The Hsinchu Moat (護城河) runs from Linsen Road (near the train station) to Beida Road (near the Hsinchu Cathedral). 

Built around the city’s oldest moat, this sprawling riverbank park is a great place to hang out, enjoy a walkabout, and even listen to live music. If you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of cute cafes and eateries here too. Mum Mum is a super Instagrammable cafe that makes pretty cakes, while 居酒屋隱酒藏 dishes up delicious Japanese food!

However, if you simply want to soak up the vibes, grab a seat on one of the many benches dotted along the walkways. Here you can chill out under the shady trees, admire the quirky art installations, or people watch. 

Check out the East Gate

East Gate, also known as Dongmen Gate or Yingximen (竹塹城迎曦門), is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The must-visit attraction is a short walk from the train station, and several roads actually lead straight to it. 

The gate was built in 1826 and is the only remaining remnant of the old city wall. Located in the middle of the city’s busiest roundabout, Dongmen Gate is a great spot for night photography. And within its square, there’s a lovely little amphitheater where you can catch all kinds of performances on weekends and special holidays.

If you want to snap a picture right under the gate or check out the square, the safest way to get there is via the underground passageway.

Drop by the Image Museum

If you’re looking for something more unique to do in Hsinchu, the Image Museum (新竹市影像博物館) is a must. 

Originally built in the early 1930s, the Image Museum once served as a theatre during the Japanese Occupation and was the first air-conditioned theater in Taiwan. 

Over the years, the museum changed many hands and even had to undergo numerous reconstructions. Today, it’s an educational hub where you can learn a little more about the history of Taiwanese cinema and watch vintage films. 

Slip into the Dongmen Market

Dongmen Market (東門市場) is right next to the Image Museum, so there’s no reason not to check it out. 

Dongmen Market has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a wet market full of grandma’s selling everything from fresh fruit and veg to sequence-studded clothing and fresh meat. Today, it’s a thriving hangout spot chockfull with eateries, cozy cafes, and a handful of cute boutiques stores. 

While you can definitely visit during the day, the market only comes to life at night when most eateries are open.

Visit the City God Temple (and Eat Some More) 

Chenghuang Temple , also more commonly known as the Hsinchu City God Temple (新竹城隍廟), is the most prominent temple in the city and dates back more than 250 years. Within its incense-smoke-filled halls, you can admire several Taoist and Buddhist deities, ornate wooden and stone structures, and the temple’s beautiful caisson ceiling. 

Besides being a historical and cultural hub, what really makes the City God Temple such a popular Hsinchu attraction is the bustling market that sits right in front of it. While Hsinchu doesn’t have nearly as many famous foods as elsewhere in Taiwan, there are a few local specialties that you simply have to try. Meatballs, rice noodles, and pork ball soup are among the most popular foods to try here.

Just a head’s up – the temple complex is always busy, so get ready to join the scrum! 

Relax at Hsinchu Park 

Hsinchu Park (新竹公園) is the most beautiful park in the city and a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing . 

The park offers a natural escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is home to beautiful ponds, sprawling gardens, funky outdoor installations, and several cozy eateries. It’s a great place to stroll around, have a picnic under the trees, or learn a little more about the city’s glass industry. 

Special events are often held here, too. On some weekends, there’s a lovely open-air market with dozens of local artisans selling everything from handmade leather bags and jewelry to baked goods and more. 

Towards the rear of the park, slip into the stunning Confucius Temple with its intricate wooden doors and windows. If you happen to come on a weekend, don’t miss the nearby weekend market. It’s a great place to sample Taiwanese street food, buy knick-knacks and browse through the beautiful flower market. 

Pop into the Glass Museum 

No list of things to do in Hsinchu would be complete without a visit to Glass Museum (新竹市文化局玻璃工藝博物館). Set within the Hsinchu Park, the Glass Museum features dozens of unique glassworks, interactive displays, and a chance to join a fun DIY glassblowing workshop.

There’s a small entrance fee to enter the museum, but it’s worth every penny because the pieces are truly spectacular. Make sure to visit all the exhibitions and pop by the Jail of Glass also housed within the museum. On the top floor, you can also buy mini glass figurines – the perfect souvenir! 

Visit the Hsinchu Zoo 

While Hsinchu Zoo (新竹市立動物園) is tiny compared to Taipei Zoo, it is the oldest zoo in Taiwan and shouldn’t be overlooked on your list of things to do in Hsinchu.

The zoo was fully revamped in 2019, and today, it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions with more than 400,000 visitors annually. More than 300 animals from various species live here, with Bornean Orangutans being the shining stars. Besides the Primate Enclosure, other must-see sections include the Birds’ Paradise and Tropical Rainforest. 

Go Shopping

There are loads of cool places to shop in Hsinchu with Big City (遠東巨城購物中心), among the most popular. It’s the largest department store in the city and jam-packed with everything from chain stores to swanky designer stores. It’s a great place to shop, grab a bite and even catch a movie! However, if you’re not a fan of crowds, it’s best to avoid weekends! 

Another great place to go shopping is in the downtown area. The streets jolting off from the Dongmen Gate, especially towards the east, are full of clothes, shoes, and accessory stores. In fact, if you’re looking for the latest fashion trends from Korea or Japan, this is your best bet.  Zhongzhengtai Trend Boutique Mall  (New 中正台夜市) is a great place to start, but also make sure to wander through all the nooks and crannies nearby because there are loads of hidden gems!  

Stroll along Sanmin Road

Sanmin Road (三民路) is one of my favorite places in Hsinchu. The street runs across several blocks and is a great place for a walkabout. A lovely park full of quirky outdoor installations and shady trees runs through it. It’s quite a popular spot, especially in the mornings, when many locals hang out under the shady trees playing board games or doing tai chi. 

However, what really makes Sanmin Road such a cool spot is that it’s lined with oodles of cozy cafes and boutique stores. Check out  Table Joe  if you’re after the best burger in town and  一百種味道  if you have a sweet tooth. A few blocks down, also pop into  Bar Back  – a cozy bar that serves delicious cakes, drip coffee, and boozy cocktails!

Hike 18 Peaks Mountain

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, then 18 Peaks Mountian (十八尖山公園) is a great place for some fresh air and low-key hiking.

Located less than 1.5km from the Hsinchu Zoo, this sprawling mountain range with its 18 peaks is perfect for spending a few hours in nature. There are loads of trails to follow amid the lush forest, offering great views over the city and mountains. And if you’re up to it, you can even hike to the highest peak’s summit, which stands 132m tall! 

Stroll Around Green Grass Lake 

Green Grass Lake (青草湖), more commonly known as Ching-Tsao Lake, is yet another attraction that deserves a spot on your Hsinchu to-do list!

The lake sits just on the city’s edges, and it’s yet another great place to enjoy a slice of nature. Green Grass Lake is a popular spot among bird watchers, hikers and fitness fanatics. In fact, you can walk all around the lake. And while it’s a pretty easy walk, don’t expect to do it in less than 45 minutes! 

If you’re not into exercise, there’s plenty of room to relax. Along the walkways, you’ll find loads of wooden benches, where you can sit down and admire the scenery. There’s also a tiny island in the middle of the lake, offering gorgeous views over the lake. Access the island by crossing the beautiful ornate bridge.  

Enjoy the Nightlife

Hsinchu’s nightlife scene can’t compete with all the awesome things to do in Taipei at night . But if you’re looking for a place to kick back with an ice-cold beer and mingle with the expat crowd, then check out these spots. 

Lane 33 near the Moat Park is probably the most well-known nightlife area in the city. There are several little bars here, with  Red Bar  being a popular hangout spot among expats. It can get quite rowdy here, so if that’s not your scene, head to the best craft beer bar in town,  Zhangmen . It’s a short stroll from Red Bar and located right next to Cafe Grazie. 

October Bar  on Lane 18 is another popular go-to bar and a great place to mingle with locals and expats alike. They play decent music, and the beers are cold! Go around 11 pm, when it gets really lively! If you want to grab a bite first, pop into my favorite izakaya,  小居酒日式串燒  or try the lamb fried noodles at  公園羊肉炒麵經國店 .

Where to Stay in Hsinchu

I’m not going to lie; Hsinchu doesn’t have nearly as many cool accommodation options as other big cities in Taiwan. And if you want to stay somewhere decent, get ready to fork out a bit more on accommodation.  Here are the best places to stay.

Mid-Range:  If you want to stay right in the hustle and bustle of Hsinchu downtown,  Shin Yuan Park Hotel  is the place for you. Shin Yuan Park Hotel overlooks the Hsinchu Moat Park and is located mere steps from the Hsinchu Train Station. The 3-star hotel offers spacious rooms with modern interiors.  Check rates and availability here .

Lux:   Fleur Lis  is a beautiful 4-star hotel perfect for those that want to be close to the city’s best attractions without sacrificing style and comfort. The hotel features beautifully decorated rooms and several onsite restaurants. Don’t miss the cocktails at the Ocean Bar!  Check rates and availability here .

If you’ve got your own wheels and don’t mind traveling to the city center, check-in at  Hotel Royal  or  Hotel Indigo . Both sit on Guangfu Road near the Science Park and offer an upscale stay. 

How to get to Hsinchu

Hsinchu City is situated on the northwestern coast of Taiwan, less than 1h30 drive from Taipei. Since Hsinchu is home to one of Taiwan’s biggest and most important Science Parks, it’s easily accessible from just about anywhere in Taiwan. With that said, the easiest ways to get here are by train, bus, or high-speed rail. 

The Hsinchu Bus Station is located right behind the iconic Hsinchu Train Station, and it’s easy to explore the downtown area from either stations on foot. However, the fastest way to get to Hsinchu, especially from Taipei, Taichung, or Kaohsiung, is by HSR train.  Grab a discounted ticket here to guarantee a seat or check schedules and rates here. Just a heads up – the HSR Station is actually located in Jhubei, Hsinchu’s hip neighbor. To get from the HSR Station to the city center, take a taxi (roughly TWD300), catch a city bus, or hop on a train. The Liujia TRA Station sits right next to the HSR station. Another option, of course, is to rent a car. 

How to Get Around During Your Hsinchu Itinerary

Unlike Taipei , Kaohsiung , and Taichung , Hsinchu does not have a subway. But there are loads of buses, taxis, and even ride-share services like Uber ready to transport you to all corners of the city. If you’re only planning to explore the city’s downtown area, you can easily do so on foot. Most of the attractions are within walking distance from one another. If you prefer to cycle, grab a bike at the nearest YouBike station to explore the city at your own pace.

Another fun way to get around the city is by scooter. You can rent a scooter or a Gogoro here via Klook. Pickup is near the train station and super easy. Just remember to bring your local driver’s license (or IDP) because you won’t be able to rent one without it!

What to do in Hsinchu, Taiwan in Conclusion

While Hsinchu City might not get as much hype as other cities in Taiwan, it’s still a great add-on to any Taiwan itinerary . If you still want to add a few more things to your Hsinhcu attractions list, these day trips from Hsinchu will come in handy. 

Well, that’s all I have on things to do in Hsinchu for now! What’s your favorite thing to do in Taiwan’s Windy City? Let me know in the comments below! 

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A Travel Guide to Hsinchu, Taiwan’s Silicon Valley

Hsinchu (新竹 xinzhu ) is one of the more off-the-beaten-track places to visit in Taiwan. It consists of Hsinchu City and the separate Hsinchu county, both which I’ll cover below.

At most, some travelers make a day trip to Hsinchu county for visiting family-friendly attractions like Leofoo Village or Green World Ecological Farm . People are more likely to know Hsinchu for Hsinchu Science Park , a collection if 400+ high-tech companies based in the “Silicon Valley of Taiwan”.

But there is much more to Hsinchu than tech companies if you’re willing to put in the time. It has remote mountains to explore, aboriginal and Hakka communities, excellent hot springs in Jianshi , and the fun Neiwan small train to Neiwan Old Street .

In this article, I’ll cover Hsinchu’s popular and lesser-known sights, how to get to them, the best travel deals, and some famous local food specialties.

Table of Contents

Hsinchu Introduction

Hsinchu is located in northwestern Taiwan, between Taoyuan City to the north and Miaoli county to the south.

Originally an aboriginal settlement, Han settlers founded Hsinchu city as “Tek-kham” in 1711, qualifying it as oldest city in Northern Taiwan. They renamed it Hsinchu (literally “new bamboo”) in 1878, referring to a bamboo wall protecting the city. There are still aboriginal settlements in the hills of Hsinchu county. Hsinchu is also known for its Hakka communities , especially Beipu, Guanxi, and Neiwan.

In 1979, Leofoo Village was opened in Hsinchu and remains Taiwan’s oldest and most famous theme park. A year later, the Taiwanese government established Hsinchu Science Park , mainly for semiconductor manufacturing. Besides high tech, the city is also known for its glass industry. Because of the industry there, it has a higher concentrations of foreign residents than other cities in Taiwan.

Today, Hsinchu City is separate from Hsinchu County . The county has its own seat (capital), Zhubei city . However, just like Taipei , Taichung , and Kaohsiung , Hsinchu city and county will likely be merged into one entity in the future.

Zhubei (竹北, also spelled Jhubei) literally means “Hsinchu north”. There’s also a Zhudong (Hsinchu east) and Zhunan (Hsinchu south, but that one’s in Miaoli county). In the same way, there’s also a Taiwan north, center, south, and east (Taipei, Taichung, Tainan , and Taitung ).

Getting to Hsinchu

Where you want to go in Hsinchu will affect how you plan to get there.

Leofoo Village is best reached by bus from Taipei (the bus is included in this Leofoo Village ticket deal ), while Green World can be accessed by bus or HSR/train + bus – here are the directions .

Hsinchu city is on the regular ( TRA ) train line, taking 60 to 105 minutes to reach from Taipei. If you want to ride the Neiwan Small Train Line to Neiwan Old Street, you’ll need to go to Hsinchu city first and board the small train line there. It’s part of the TRA system, so you can search the times for Hsinchu to Neiwan on the TRA site. There are seven trains daily. Find out how to buy TRA tickets here .

Hsinchu’s High Speed Rail (HSR) station is actually located in Zhubei, the seat of the Hsinchu county. The ride from Taipei only takes 35 minutes. Check how close the HSR station is to where you want to go in Hsinchu city or county to decide if it’s worth the extra cost. Get discounted HSR tickets here and read my guide to the HSR train system .

Zhubei also has a station on the regular train line, in the Zhubei city center, while the HSR station is in the city’s east.

A four-line LRT system is currently being planned in Hsinchu.

Where to Stay in Hsinchu

Leoofoo Village theme park has a fun but pricey hotel, Leofoo Resort Guanshi (see on Booking / Agoda ) on site. The hotel balconies overlook an enclosure with giraffes, rhinos, flamingos, and other animals. When I visited, I even got to pet a lemur, which run free in the hotel area.

While Green World doesn’t have a hotel inside, you can stay in B&B nearby such as this one .

For a hot spring getaway, there are some great hot spring resorts in Jianshi township near Neiwan Old Street. We loved our stay at Hui-Lai Resort (see on Booking / Agoda ), which has lovely hot spring pools beside a river and a kids water play area (summer only).

If you want to stay in Hsinchu City , Huatai (see on Booking / Agoda ) is a decent budget option near the train station, while the Ambassador is finer accommodation.

Visitors doing business in Hsinchu Science Park are often put up in the Sheraton Hsinchu (see on Booking / Agoda) in Zhubei.

Top Things to Do in Hsinchu

I’ll separate the below into attractions in Hsinchu City, Zhubei City, and Hsinchu county.

Hsinchu City

Hsinchu’s city center rarely makes it onto travelers’ Taiwan itineraries. If you do find yourself there, there are a handful of things worth visiting.

Chief among them is Hsinchu City God Temple (新竹都城隍廟), the most important City God ( cheng huang ) temple in Taiwan. It may not strike you as super different than most other temples in Taiwan, but once a year (13 th to 15 th days of the Seventh Lunar Month), it hosts one of Taiwan’s most boisterous celebrations (see “Hsinchu events” section at the end).

Many traditional food stalls, Hsinchu Central Market (新竹中央市場), and Chenghuang Temple Night Market (新竹市城隍廟夜市) are all around the temple.

Not far away, Dongmen Market (東門市場) is yet another traditional market with many cool restaurants in the daytime and evening.

Hsinchu East Gate (竹塹城迎曦門 or yingximen ) is an original arched gate dating to 1826, now in the middle of traffic circle.

Nearby, Hsinchu City Hall (新竹市政府) is a lovely brick building dating to the Japanese colonial period. Near the East Gate, you can still see films in a hertiage, 1933 theater called OR Lightbox (新竹市影像博物館).

Hsinchu has a couple cat cafés , like Three Cats (三隻貓) and Cat Island (貓嶼).

On the other side of the train station, you’ll also find Hsinchu Zoo (新竹市立動物園) – which is small and mainly houses rescue animals, Taiwan Insect Museum Hsinchu (台灣昆蟲館 – 新竹館), Hsinchu Glass Museum (新竹市玻璃工藝博物館), Hsinchu Confucius Temple (新竹孔廟), and a weekend Flower Market (新竹假日花市).

In the south of the city, Green Grass Lake (青草湖) is a spot for a casual stroll.

On the coast, there’s a seafood market, kite-flying area, and lovely boardwalks for seaside walks or cycling at Nanliao Fishing Harbor (新竹南寮漁港).

There’s another boardwalk and wetlands at Xiangshan Boardwalk (賞蟹步道) – reminiscent of but less famous than Gaomei Wetlands in Taichung.

Zhubei City

Zhubei, the seat of Hsinchu county, has a center filled with residential skyrises. The city grew rapidly in connection with Hsinchu Science Park.

I don’t recommend going out of your way to visit Zhubei. But if you do find yourself there, perhaps on a business trip to Hsinchu Science Park, you can explore some old Hakka houses at New Tile House Hakka Cultural District (新瓦屋客家文化保存區) or see the Tofu/Chessboard Rocks (豆腐岩) and go cycling along the Touqian River.

Just north of Zhubei in Xinpu township, Baozhong Temple (新埔枋寮褒忠亭義民廟) is one of the most important temples for the Hakka people in Taiwan and hosts an important event called Hakka Yimin Festival in the 7th lunar month.

Hsinchu County

Hsinchu’s most appealing attractions are in the county, not the city.

Leofoo Village (六福村) is Hsinchu’s most famous attraction. This is Taiwan’s original and most famous theme park. It combines animal safari, amusement park (with four huge themed areas), and waterpark.

Leofoo Village is most commonly done as a day trip from Taipei. Deals like this will save you money. Guanxi Old Street nearby is popular among locals.

Little Ding Dong (小叮噹科學主題樂園生活大師會館) is another amusement park in Hsinchu county with a science theme. Despite the concerning name ( Ding Dang is actually the Chinese name for Doraemon, but you won’t see him there), it’s fun for kids.

And, uniquely in Taiwan, you can try indoor skiing or tobogganing there. Buy your tickets here .

Green World Ecological Farm (綠世界生態農場) is more focused on animals, with macaws, alpacas, butterflies, animal shows, petting zoo, tropical plants, and more. It’s essentially a zoo but with more a natural setting, more space, more activities, and better food.

Riding the Neiwan Small Train Line from Hsinchu city to Neiwan is one of the top things to do in Hsinchu.

Neiwan Old Street is one of the best in Taiwan. What is an Old Street, you might ask? It’s essentially a daytime market running along a street with lovely heritage buildings, often nicely restored.

Neiwan is a Hakka community and former mining village. Neiwan Old Street is one of the best places in Taiwan to try traditional Hakka pounded tea (擂茶 or leicha ). See the “What to Eat in Hsinchu” section at the end for more info about this and other food specialties on the street.

There’s also a beautiful suspension bridge beside Neiwan Old Street and some children’s games like small cars to drive, robot rides, excavator diggers, and so on.

A short drive from Neiwan, the primarily aboriginal township of Jianshi (尖石鄉) has the county’s best collection of hot spring resorts .

We love this area and have enjoyed soaks at Huilai (會來尖石溫泉渡假村), Tianran (天然谷溫泉會館), Zhaori (新竹朝日溫泉民宿), and Jingping (錦屏美人湯館). You’ll need a car, or you may be able to request pick-up in Neiwan from some of the resorts.

If you like camping , there are also some excellent, remote campgrounds such as this one in Jianshi. When we went, we saw cherry blossoms , sea of clouds, fireflies, and there’s even a small pool for kids.

The only catch is that it’s hard to get there – driving there is best. Search “campground” (露營區) in the area on GoogleMaps for several more options.

And for those who like to get WAY off the beaten track, Smangus (司馬庫斯) is a aboriginal village way up a winding road in Jianshi township – often called the most remote village in Taiwan and one of the last to get power. It is Taiwan’s only cooperative community and attracts visitors for its huge cypress trees and cherry blossoms in seas.

Also in Neiwan area, Lavender Forest Jianshi Store (薰衣草森林新竹尖石店) is the Hsinchu branch of the famous Lavender Cottage in Taichung. Come in January or February to see the lavender at peak blooming.

Buy your tickets here for a discount, but you’ll need to find a way there from Neiwan – there are no taxis in the area.

Every October to January, this persimmon farm (衛佳柿餅教育農園) in Hsinchu becomes a hot spot for photographers. You can see highly photogenic racks of the orange fruits drying in the sun. Expect big crowds, especially on weekends. It’s a 15-minute drive from Hsinchu HSR station.

Beipu Old Street (北埔老街) is another popular Old Street in a Hakka community. Locals flock there on weekends. A 10-minute drive south of Beipu town, Beipu Cold Spring (北埔冷泉), essentially a human-made waterfall on a creek, is another magnet for locals, especially in summer.

Further down in Emei township, there’s a ginormous bronze Maitreya statue at Nature Loving Wonderland (大自然文化世界) on Dapu Reservoir. It’s best to drive to Beipu and Emei from Zhudong.

You can then continue on to Lion’s Head Mountain (獅頭山 or shitoushan ), famous for its hiking trails and the chance to sleep in a temple. The mountain park is shared by Hsinchu and Miaoli – I cover it in more detail in my Miaoli article .

For another amazing drive, hire a scooter in Zhudong and ride up to Qingquan (清泉部落), a remote aboriginal community in the mountains with a waterfall, suspension bridge, hot spring, and campgrounds. It’s a beautiful journey.

Best Hsinchu Tours & Deals

Here’s a private tour of Hsinchu focusing on Hakka culture, or you can hire a private driver and make your own itinerary.

Get your tickets for Leofoo Village (including transportation from Taipei), Green World Ecological Park , Lavender Cottage , or Little Ding Dong theme park online to save money.

How to Plan Your Hsinchu Itinerary

For most visitors to Hsinchu, they will just come in on a day trip from Taipei or spend part of their day there on the way to somewhere further south, like Miaoli or Taichung. This is what most people do for Leofoo Village, Green World Ecological Park, Neiwan, and so on.

If you are especially interested in visiting many sights in Hsinchu, you could consider to make Hsinchu city or Zhubei your base . But be prepared for some slow bus rides and long distances between attractions. Depending on which sights you want to visit, hiring a driver may be a good idea.

If you’re able to rent a scooter (IDP or local scooter license required), then I recommend hiring one in Hsinchu City or Zhudong, then riding through Beipu and Emei to Lion’s Head Mountain. This could be done as a day trip, or you can spend the night at Shitoushan Quanhua Temple then come back the next day, or continue with more exploring in Miaoli.

What to Eat in Hsinchu

In Hsinchu city, the market around Hsinchu City God Temple has tons of traditional street foods.

In the daytime, it is a bustling indoor food market, while at night it transforms into Chenghuang Temple Night Market . (Read about other night markets in Taiwan here !)

In this market, I highly recommend the deep fried mashed taro balls at 林家芋泥球 . You can find this small stall (afternoon and evenings only) on the outside row of shops facing the City God Temple Plaza. They are one of the few vegetarian options in the night market – here’s how to find vegetarian and vegan food in Taiwan .

I also recommend trying a bowl of “ thick thick soup ” (稠稠的羹, pronounced “ gege gee ” in the Taiwanese language). This is a Hsinchu-only specialty of thick soup with squid, crispy pork, celery, and cabbage, with a hint of sweetness. Find it at this famous stall or similar versions at others.

Bawan (肉圓), a Changhua specialty, are also common in Hsinchu and sold at many stalls in the City God day/night market.

There’s a branch of Din Tai Fung , Taiwan’s most famous restaurant, here in the Hsinchu city center.

On the coast, Nanliao Fishing Harbor (南寮漁港) is the place to go for fresh seafood.

In Neiwan, expect to find lots of local Hakka delicacies , especially dried tofu (豆乾 or dougan ), brown sugar cake (黑糖糕 or heitanggao ), rice dumplings (粽子 or zongzi ), and mochi (麻糬).

Neiwan is also the best place in Taiwan to try Hakka pounded tea (擂茶 or leicha ). This is made by pounding tealeaves with nuts, grains, and herbs then adding water. It is served hot or cold, often with puffed rice on top and mochi on the side.

We loved the Hakka pounded tea at this shop in Neiwan, and you can even pound your own for a DIY experience.

At Guanxi Old Street or Beipu Old Street, you can find more Hakka specialties like brown sugar cake, dried persimmons, and Hakka wide rice noodles (半條 or bantiao ).

Hsinchu Events

The Hsinchu City God Temple puts on one of Taiwan’s loudest traditional festivals, the Hsinchu City God Parade (中元城隍祭) on the 13th to 15th days of the 7th lunar month, which usually falls around August. As a part of the Ghost Festival, the gates to the underworld are opened and the City God does an inspection of the city.

Leofoo’s water park is open from mid-June to the end of September – grab your chance to cool off!

Once every two years (2022, 2024, 2026, etc) in November, the Saisiyat Aboriginal Tribe (賽夏族) of Hsinchu and Miaoli put on their “ Festival of the Short People ” (Pasta’ay or 矮靈祭) in their sacred space in Wufeng township of Hsinchu or in Miaoli.

I was lucky enough to attend this all-night dancing fest several years ago and will never forget it. Consult this group run by some knowledgeable expats if you’re interested in attending.

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12 Best Things to do in Hsinchu

Hsinchu attractions.

Hsinchu has a certain charm that many travelers find simply bewitching. Life is neither as fast-paced nor hectic as Taiwan's bigger cities, which is a big attraction. Your chosen travel itinerary can be as laid-back as you can make it, but you’ll still be able to see most, if not all, of the essential must-sees here.

There are many things to see and do in Hsinchu, and most of them are found around the older part of the city. Once you’ve ticked those off, you can spend more time hiking and exploring the beautiful countryside – something that isn’t really possible in Taipei or other major cities around Taiwan.

What are the best things to do in Hsinchu?

Chenghuang temple.

Also known as the Hsinchu City God Temple, Chenghuang Temple is visited by tourists from all over Taiwan. It’s one of the most vibrant places in the city. The market stalls in front of the temple offers tempting varieties of Taiwanese street food. A must-try are the Hsinchu meatballs, a yummy savory delicacy that’s sure to pique your taste buds. Traditional Taiwanese opera is performed here in the expansive courtyard, but be sure to come early if you don’t want to miss it.

Location: No. 75, Zhongshan Road, North District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300

Phone: +886 (0)3 522 3666

photo by lienyuan lee ( CC BY 3.0 ) modified

Gangnan Coastal Area and Canal

The Gangnan Coastal Area and canal used to be a swimming beach for locals but, seeing the potential as a nice attraction site, the city government took steps to develop the canal area. Today it features numerous facilities including shady picnic spots, beautiful bridges and bicycle paths. The canal is equally as picturesque at night.

photo by Yuriy kosygin ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

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Green grass lake.

Also known as the Ching-Tsao Lake, this scenic spot is highly popular among couples – so popular in fact, that some have been known to propose to their loved ones by the lake.

The island in the middle of the lake is especially charming. You can reach it across the decorative Yingyue Bridge and, once there, can enjoy the simple but pretty garden. There’s a small patio facing to the west – if you’re going to pop the question, doing so there at sunset would be extra-romantic.

Location: East District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300

photo by 陳文振 ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Gaofeng Botanical Garden

The Gaofeng Botanical Garden is also known as the Green Library of Hsinchu City. Back in the 1930s, when it was first founded, the garden was known as the Tsu Too Chih Forest Experiment Field. Today, you’ll find as many as 300 different varieties of plants in the nurseries. There are both saplings and trees as old as 50 years and above. You can learn more about the Taiwan acacia, eucalyptus, Ceylon olive and plenty of other species.

Location: Baoshan Road, East District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300

Hsinchu Science Park

At the heart of Hsinchu City’s modernity is the Hsinchu Science Park. This high-tech town is surrounded by a manmade lake and a spacious park. There are also barbecue pits for those who want to indulge in a bit of picnicking. You do, however, need to ask permission from the Hsinchu Science Park authorities beforehand.

Location: No. 2, Hsin Ann Rd, East District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300

Phone: +886 (0)3 577 3311

photo by Tony Tseng ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Hsinchu Zoo

Hsinchu Zoo may not be the biggest in the region, but it is quite possibly one of the best maintained. Adept staff members conscientiously care for its 250 inhabitants. The Primate Enclosure is one of its most popular spots – the chimpanzees are a hit with both children and adults alike.

Location: No. 111, Bo'ai Street, East District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300

Phone: +886 (0)3 522 2194

photo by MiNe ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Image Museum of Hsinchu City

Image Museum of Hsinchu City is a great place to learn more about the culture of this historical city, mostly through the medium of classic movie theater. It’s based in a beautiful building with a history of its own. Built in 1933, it was the first theatre to be equipped with air conditioning in Taiwan. After the Japanese occupation ended, the government refurbished the complex and it became the popular cultural hub in Hsinchu it is today, where regular performances and shows are held.

Location: No. 65, Zhongzheng Road, East District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300

Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 9.30 am to 12 pm, from 1.30 pm to 5 pm and from 6.30 pm to 9 pm

Phone: +886 (0)3 528 5840

NCTU Bamboo Lake

The Bamboo Lake on the National Chiao Tung University campus grounds provides a great place to relax and unwind while taking in the beautiful sights. Willows and bamboos can be found in abundance, and the Chen Wu Pavilion makes a great scenic spot for photographs.

Location: No. 1001, Daxue Road, East District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 30010

photo by Milkmom0529 ( CC0 1.0 ) modified

Hsinchu Moat Park

The Hsinchu Moat Park is constructed around the oldest moat in Hsinchu City. Flowering shrubs and shady trees can be found throughout, giving you a brief respite from the hot sun and the hustle and bustle of the city. Cafés dot the area around the moat, and you can also enjoy cultural performances and mini concerts on the 2 small stages erected along the canal.

Location: Zhongyang Road, East District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300

Jincheng Lake

Though originally known as the Devil’s Lake, there is nothing demotic about Jincheng Lake. On the contrary, the rolling verdant hills of this scenic spot are a pleasant sight to behold. Besides that, you can also feast your eyes on the many wild fowls and migratory birds. Tip: September to May is the best time to indulge in some bird-watching, so come equipped with your binoculars and a picnic lunch.

Location: Xiangshan District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300

photo by Outlookxp ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Feifeng Mountain

Also known as Feifengshan, this mountain to the south-east of Hsinshu City offers many a scenic spot. Feifeng was so named because the locals pointed out that the shape of the slope resembled the shape of a descending Phoenix.

The hiking trail to the peak is relatively easy and not as taxing as you’d expect. There are plenty of wooden benches and gentle slopes for you to rest periodically, and refreshments are sold near the top. It’s said that you can see the famous Taipei 101 building at the peak, if the weather is clear.

Location: Qionglin Township, Hsinchu County, Taiwan 307

18 Peaks Mountain

There is a sprawling boulevard near the 18 Peaks Mountain and it’s perfect for a stroll on a cool morning. Otherwise, explore the park before embarking on a hike to the top of the mountain. The highest peak stands at 131.79 meters, so be prepared to start early or you may not be able to finish the hike on time.

One of the other peaks is Shibajian, where you’ll find 33 stone statues of Kuan Yin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Each is about 1 meter in height, but they’re scattered about, so finding all 33 can be quite a challenge.

photo by Foxy Who ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Hsinchu Must-See Attractions

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Top attractions in hsinchu.

Other Top Attractions around Hsinchu

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• Shi Tou Shan Visitor Center
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• Eighteen Peaks
• 17 Kilometers Hsinchu Coast Scenic Area
• Hsinchu Zoo
• 17 Km Bicycle Path
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• Nanliao Port
• Hsinchu Station

Top Things to Do in Hsinchu, Taiwan

Places to visit in hsinchu, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hsinchu.

Hsinchu God Temple Fish Harbor and Zoo Private Tour from Taipei

Keelung Shore Excursion Private Custom Taipei 8-Hour Tour English-Speaking Guide

The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Taipei: The 10 Tastings

Private Custom Taipei Airport Layover Tour

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Private Taroko Gorge National Park Day Tour

Keelung Shore Excursion: Jiufen Old Street & Pingxi Sky Lantern Private Tour

Full-Day Private Custom Taipei City Tour

Keelung Shore Excursion: Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Houton Cat Village Private Tour

Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour from Taipei with Pickup

Top attractions in hsinchu.

Other Top Attractions around Hsinchu

What travellers are saying

• Shi Tou Shan Visitor Center
• TSMC Museum of Innovation
• Shiniou Mountain
• Hsinchu Cheng Huang Temple
• Eighteen Peaks
• 17 Kilometers Hsinchu Coast Scenic Area
• Hsinchu Zoo
• 17 Km Bicycle Path
• Siangshan Wetland
• Nanliao Port
• Hsinchu Station

Top Things to Do in Hsinchu County

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Hsinchu

Things to do in hsinchu, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hsinchu.

Hsinchu God Temple Fish Harbor and Zoo Private Tour from Taipei

Keelung Shore Excursion Private Custom Taipei 8-Hour Tour English-Speaking Guide

The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Taipei: The 10 Tastings

Private Custom Taipei Airport Layover Tour

Yehliu, Jiufen & Pingxi Day Tour from Taipei

Private Taroko Gorge National Park Day Tour

Keelung Shore Excursion: Jiufen Old Street & Pingxi Sky Lantern Private Tour

Full-Day Private Custom Taipei City Tour

Keelung Shore Excursion: Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Houton Cat Village Private Tour

Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour from Taipei with Pickup

Top attractions in hsinchu.

Other Top Attractions around Hsinchu

What travellers are saying

• Shi Tou Shan Visitor Center
• TSMC Museum of Innovation
• Shiniou Mountain
• Hsinchu Cheng Huang Temple
• Eighteen Peaks
• 17 Kilometers Hsinchu Coast Scenic Area
• Hsinchu Zoo
• 17 Km Bicycle Path
• Siangshan Wetland
• Nanliao Port
• Hsinchu Station

Top Things to Do in Hsinchu County, Taiwan

Things to do in hsinchu county, explore popular experiences, tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Hsinchu County

What travellers are saying

• Dashan Beiyue
• Cing Cyuan Hot Spring Bridge
• Leo Foo Village Theme Park
• Xinyue Beach
• Lagerstroemia Subcostata Lake Jiouhu Trail
• The One Nanyuan
• Hexing Station Landscape Park
• Beipu cold springs
• Green World Ecological Farm
• Neiwan Old Street
• Beipu Old Street

Top Things to Do in Hsinchu

Things to do in hsinchu, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hsinchu.

Hsinchu God Temple Fish Harbor and Zoo Private Tour from Taipei

Keelung Shore Excursion Private Custom Taipei 8-Hour Tour English-Speaking Guide

The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Taipei: The 10 Tastings

Private Custom Taipei Airport Layover Tour

Yehliu, Jiufen & Pingxi Day Tour from Taipei

Private Taroko Gorge National Park Day Tour

Keelung Shore Excursion: Jiufen Old Street & Pingxi Sky Lantern Private Tour

Full-Day Private Custom Taipei City Tour

Keelung Shore Excursion: Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Houton Cat Village Private Tour

Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour from Taipei with Pickup

Top attractions in hsinchu.

Other Top Attractions around Hsinchu

What travellers are saying

• Shi Tou Shan Visitor Center
• TSMC Museum of Innovation
• Shiniou Mountain
• Hsinchu Cheng Huang Temple
• Eighteen Peaks
• 17 Kilometers Hsinchu Coast Scenic Area
• Hsinchu Zoo
• 17 Km Bicycle Path
• Siangshan Wetland
• Nanliao Port
• Hsinchu Station