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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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Things to Do in Hsinchu County, Taiwan - Hsinchu County Attractions

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

Top Attractions in Hsinchu County

What travelers are saying

• Dashan Beiyue
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• Green World Ecological Farm
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• Beipu Old Street

Asia , Outdoor Guides , Taiwan · October 12, 2019

7 Fun Day Trips from Hsinchu, Taiwan

Are you looking to explore some of Hsinchu County’s many hidden gems? This guide sets out the best day trips from Hsinchu. Plus, all my travel tips to help you fully enjoy your visit.

Hsinchu is a relatively big city on Taiwan’s Northwestern Coast. But despite its size, not many travelers venture out this far. The town is a classic example of a Taiwanese concrete jungle. And although the city itself might not be on most travelers’ must-see lists, it certainly does have its charms – the most noteworthy one being its excellent proximity to the great outdoors.

With its excellent location, Hsinchu is the perfect base to explore some of Taiwan’s hidden gems tucked away nearby. There are several remarkably scenic areas within easy reach from the city – allowing you to quickly immerse yourself in lush mountains, quiet black beaches, and dense mangrove forests.

If you have a few days to spare on your Taiwan itinerary or want to get a taste of untamed scenery, these seven fun day trips from Hsinchu are just the answer!

In a rush? Pin the Best Day Trips From Hsinchu for later.

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Table of Contents

Day Trips from Hsinchu: Quick Overview

There are many amazing side trips to while away a few hours when exploring Hsinchu County. Here’s a quick look at which day trips from Hsinchu not to miss:

Xinfeng Mangrove Nature Reserve

• Have a Picnic (Five Fingers Mountain)

The Best Day Trips from Hsinchu, Taiwan

During my ten years in Taiwan, I’ve called Hsinchu home and have explored the area extensively. While there’s plenty to do in Hsinchu , the outskirts of the city is absolutely littered with cool places to visit. Here are my top picks to quickly get out of the city and immerse yourself in nature . Along the way, you’ll get to explore lively small towns with plenty to do and see.

Neiwan ( map ) is a sleepy mountain village neatly nestled in the lush mountains of Hsinchu County. It is a popular tourist spot with plenty to keep you busy.

Enjoying a walkabout through the lively Old Street is the first thing you should do. Here you can try out some local Hakka specialties and drink up the bustling vibes. Before you head out further, be sure to drop by Theatre Street and the cute Railway Station – one of the oldest in Taiwan.

Taking gentle strolls along the Youluo River, walking across one of the five suspension bridges, and soaking in a hot spring nearby are other great things to do here.

Further afield, a visit to Frog Rock Waterfall , Lavender Cottage or D-Sky will not disappoint either.

Lavender Cottage is a quaint area featuring a beautiful garden, terrific views, and excellent lavender ice cream. Getting to D-Sky is a bit more challenging, as it takes 40 minutes to reach here. The scenic spot lies 1200m above sea level and offers remarkable views of the lower-lying valley. There is also a quaint restaurant to enjoy lunch or afternoon tea.

Insider’s tip: Taiwan is jam-packed with great things to do. These tips on visiting Taipei (and practically the rest of Taiwan) will come in handy. Also, see my detailed 2 weeks in Taiwan itinerary which maps out all the best places to visit in Taiwan and includes loads of handy tips.

Beipu ( map ) is a small mountain town neatly nestled among rolling hills, and towering palm trees. It’s well-known for its historic maze-like alleyways and well-preserved architecture. On weekends the streets are packed with locals wandering around the Old Street or paying respects at Ci-Tian Temple (the oldest temple in town, constructed in 1846).

Beipu is a lively place, full of atmosphere. And perhaps one of the best places in Hsinchu County to try Hakka specialties. Be sure to try the brown sugar cake, peanut candy, and lei cha – a traditional farmers tea.

After exploring the nooks and crannies in town, head to the cold springs nearby. It’s an excellent spot to cool off, especially during summer! And the perfect place for a barbeque. Although there is no charge to access the cold streams, you should know that it’s a very popular spot among locals. Therefore if you want to skip the crowds, it’s best to visit during the week.

If you’re not comfortable accessing the area on your own, I highly encourage joining a Hakka Day Trip from Taipei .

Nanzhuang ( map ) is a scenic mountain village in neighboring Miaoli Country. It is only a 45 minute drive from Hsinchu City making it an easy day trip. Besides its close proximity to one of the best hiking spots in Taiwan – Lion’s Head Mountain, the village also boasts several unique historical sites. Be sure not to miss Osmanthus Alley, Yongchang Temple, and the Nanzhuang Old Post Office on your visit here.

Similar to Jiufen and Fenqihu Old Streets, Nanzhuang also has a lively food street following a narrow alleyway. Thanks to the width of the alley, it can get crowded quite quickly – especially if you have claustrophobia. That said, a visit to Nanzhuang would simply not be complete without wandering through this narrow lane! Be sure to try some of the local delicacies, and buy a few quirky souvenirs.

Insider’s tip: Although most people turn around after visiting the Old Post Office, I highly recommend trekking on a bit further. At the Zhonggang River, you can enjoy magnificent views over the valley and mountains as a backdrop.

Nanliao ( map ) is best known for its 17km coastal trail taking you past dense mangroves and spectacular stretches of coastline. It also boasts with a lively harbor selling freshly caught fish, a bustling street market, and wide-open spaces to fly kites.

Near the harbor, you can wander through the busy fish market and snack your way through the day market. Further afield, popping by the bell tower at the human-made lake, and hitting the beach are other obligatory activities. Nanliao is not the most famous beach in Taiwan , so not many people swim here. Still, it’s an excellent place to take a gentle stroll, especially at sunset.

If you’re looking for the best pizza in town, I highly recommend stopping by The Sea House Cafe. Once you’ve explored the highlights in the village, head to the coastal bikeway. There are many excellent vistas along the way, with the Mangrove Park, Xianshan Wetland, and Crab Walkway being the most scenic.

The best way to explore Nanliao is by bike. There are several bicycle shops scattered across town, where you can rent a bike. Most shops have a wide variety ranging from standard and tandem bicycles to electric bikes and quadricycles. Prices start at NT200 for 2 hours.

Emei (also known as Ermei, map ) is a tiny village hidden among rolling hills covered in lush greenery. To reach this hidden gem, though, you’ll need to travel along hairpin bends winding down steep mountains filled with gentle streams, cute pagodas, and thick jungle. And, once you reach the bottom of the hill, gorgeous tea plantations await you.

Besides the tremendous scenery that you’ll enjoy on the way, Emei itself is just as impressive. The town is home to a beautiful lake which formerly served as a reservoir, a large Buddhist monastery where you can stroll around and one of the biggest Buddha-statues in Taiwan.

After gaining cultural insights at the monastery and drinking up the magnificent views over the lake, there are several other highlights worthy of your time.

Right behind the monastery, there is a narrow pathway leading you through a lush jungle. From here, cross the suspension bridge to get a bird’s-eye view over the lake. It’s a great place to take photos too.

Once you reach the other side, follow the path up the steep hill. Turn left if you want to get a closer look at the locals going about their daily business. Along the way, drop by the Old Street to shop for souvenirs or grab a bite.

After you’ve filled your belly, make your way back to the monastery, as there is a secret spot to explore nearby. Not many expats and even locals know about this hidden spot, making it ideal for escaping the crowds. To get there, you’ll need to take route #81 and travel around the lake. Then turn left on route #49 and continue straight until you find the quirky shops and cafes lining the road. It’s a relaxing area to enjoy a coffee overlooking yet another lake. If you want to have a walkabout, there are also several short trails nearby.

Know before you go

Despite its tranquil vibes and beautiful scenery, Emei can get quite crowded with hordes of tourists flocking to the monastery. Therefore I highly recommend timing your visit here. If you must visit on the weekend, try to come before the crowds set in (10-11 am) or after 2 pm when most of the tour groups start to leave. Also note, there is a dress code to enter the monastery’s grounds. Besides covering your shoulders, shorts, short skirts, and open shoes are not allowed.

One of the most accessible day trips from Hsinchu is Xinfeng Mangrove Nature Reserve ( map ). The reserve is not very big, but it’s the perfect escape from the busy streets of Hsinchu City.

Upon arrival, keep an eye out for the narrow trailhead right next to the bus stop. From here, you can follow the wooden walkway through the lush, dense mangrove forest. Along the way, you’ll also spot locals with hand-made fishing rods eagerly trying to catch fiddler crabs, shrimps and shellfish in the muddy waters below.

It is also possible to rent a bike nearby, but know that you won’t be able to enter the mangrove trail with it as the path is hardly big enough for two people to walk side by side.

Completing the trail will only take an odd 10 minutes or so, but it’s a great place to surround yourself with nature quickly. Once you reach the trail end, continue straight to get to the beach. Here you’ll find several food trucks dishing up local snacks, such as barbecue squid and sweet pork sausages. Grab some snacks or a drink and enjoy the spectacular ocean views from one of the cute tables overlooking the beach. It is a relaxing place to watch the waves come and go and also great for some good old fashioned people watching.

Oh, and travel tip – come just before sunset for cooler temperatures and spectacular color-changing skies.

Have a Picnic in Five Fingers Mountain

Less than 30 minutes drive from Beipu Old Street is another cool spot in Hsinchu County to check out – 森窯 Have a Picnic ( map ).

Hidden high up in the mountains of Five Fingers Mountain (五指山), a mystical forest full of towering trees awaits you. If you’ve ever been to Alishan , then you’re in for a real treat because Have a Picnic’s mini forest is bound to remind you of all the awesome hiking trails there. 

Have a Picnic is a huge picnic area set amid a beautiful forest where you can enjoy a delicious kiln-baked pizza amid forest scenery. Besides chowing down pizza, you can also slip into the nearby temples like Wuzhishan Zaojun Temple (五指山灶君堂). If that’s not for you, there are a couple of cool hiking trails nearby varying in length and difficulty. Definitely try the circular path, which takes you around the cliff. The trailhead starts near the entrance of Have a Picnic, and while it’s not a very long hike, make sure to wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be slippery. Along the way, there are two tiny cave temples and some really spectacular views. 

The only downfall about visiting here is that it’s quite scary to drive there with a scooter. The road is small and twists and turns up the mountain for about 2km. If you can, come in a car because driving downhill with a scooter is not for the fainthearted! Have a Picnic is quite a popular spot to hang out on weekends, so remember to order your pizzas online to avoid disappointment. You can do so on their website  here . Oh, and don’t forget a picnic blanket and bug spray! 

Insider’s Tip:  If the drive is too scary for you, Sky & Trees ( map ) is a cute little vegan cafe along Route 122, where you can enjoy an ice-cold fruit tea, freshly made waffles, and an array of veggie pasta dishes. 

Day Trips From Hsinchu – Planning Tips

Getting around.

You can reach most of these places by public transport such as buses or trains. Regular trains and buses depart from the main stations in the city. However, the easiest way to navigate the area is by self-drive. If you haven’t picked up a rental car at Taoyuan Airport on arrival, you might want to consider renting a scooter. There are a few scooter shops near the Hsinchu train station, but it is essential to know that you need a valid driver’s license to do so. Either a local license or an international license will do.

There is only one scooter shop (I know of) willing to rent scooters to foreigners in Hsinchu – the Yamaha store on Zhonghua Road, just past the bus station. Remember to bring your valid license as well as some form of identification along. Also, know that it is highly likely that the shop will keep your ID, passport, or ARC card until you return the scooter. Make sure you have Google Maps installed on your phone before you go to navigate the area quickly.

Similarly, if you are relying on public transport, I highly recommend grabbing an Easy Card, which will allow you to tap and go on most buses and trains. You can grab an Easy Card online or at any convenience store island-wide.

Language Barriers

As most of these places are quite rural, it’s essential to know that language might be a problem. If you do not speak Chinese, learning a few basic phrases can go a long way in making your visit more enjoyable. Alternatively, make sure you have Traditional Chinese downloaded on Google Translate for a stress-free trip. You’ll also need cellular data to access the app on the go. To save time, order a local SIM card to pick up at the airport upon arrival first.

What to Pack for Day Trips from Hsinchu

Most of these places are in mountainous areas, so I strongly advise bringing along mosquito repellant or bug spray. Taiwan’s jungles have some pretty weird bugs, and the last thing you need is to be bitten by one.

Furthermore, if you’re visiting during summer, be sure always to carry an umbrella or raincoat as the weather can be quite unpredictable. It’s also essential to put on sufficient sunscreen and wear a UV protective light jacke t , especially if you are riding a bike/scooter.

Also, remember to drink lots of water. Investing in a reusable water bottle is a great way to stay hydrated and minimize your plastic footprint. Taiwan has a subtropical climate, so if you’re not used to humidity, visit during spring or autumn instead.

If you need more tips on what to bring along, my Taiwan packing list will also come in handy.

Where to stay in Hsinchu City

There are several excellent hotels to stay near the train station.

• Shin Yuan Celeb Metro Hotel is an excellent choice if you want to be right in the heart of the city. It’s a short 2-minute walk from the train station, and near some great bars and restaurants.
• If you’re looking for something a bit fancier, Fleur Lis and Lakeshore Metro Hotel are both good choices.

Have you visited any of these places near Hsinchu? And, what tips do you have for fellow travelers looking to get off the beaten path?

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Hsinchu Taiwan – The Windy City of Food and Fun

Hsinchu, the most unassuming, diamond on the rough destination you didn’t know you needed to visit. Many of the born and bred there are of Hakka descent, the original Taiwanese aboriginal minority from the southern-eastern part of the country, and it is here that you’ll find you’ll be more immersed in the deep historical roots of the city than the bustling city life that seems to encapsulate the core of Taiwan’s appeal to the world.  

Its nickname is unofficially ‘The Windy City’ because due to its unique location, the weather is habitually windy regardless of the time of the year. It’s also unpredictable, often incredibly hot in summer with rainy days, with breezes passing through, typhoon season typically around July to October, and winter’s being cool enough for a jacket but not requiring much else – much like the rest of Taiwan .  

Whilst one might be inclined to skip over this small city sandwiched between Taoyuan City and Taichung City, if you’re not pressed for time, and you’re looking for somewhere off the heavily beaten path of Taiwan’s most frequented tourist areas, then a one or two day trip to Hsinchu might just be what the doctored ordered. Only under an hour away by train, bus, or car from northern Taipei, or 2.5 hours by train from southern Kaohsiung , it’s surprisingly easy to get to, given its relatively unknown status.  

We highlight below some of the unique attractions that Hsinchu offers, and we hope that if you do decide to visit them, they’ll show you a side of Taiwan not typically seen by many.

How To Get To Hsinchu?

How To Get To Hsinchu From Taipei  

From Taipei , you can easily travel to Hsinshu for just 35-minutes on the High Speed Rail (HSR) from $290 TWD ($9.40USD) for one person, one way. To check train times and book tickets, check out the website here . This makes it incredibly easy to explore Hsinchu as a day trip, as well as a leisurely one-day trip from Taipei.  

How To Get To Hsinchu From  Kaohsiung  

From Kaohsiung (Zuoying Station), you can simply hop on the HSR and be at Hsinchu in under 90-minutes for $1,200 TWD ($40USD) for one person, one way. To check train times and book tickets, check out the website here .

Where To Stay In Hsinchu?

Hsinchu taiwan –  guesthouse mo nei garden b&b.

A quaint manor-like house, Mo Nei Garden provides a home away from home in the purest sense. The owners are only a stone throw away, making it feel comfortable and safe – should anything ever happen, they’ll be right at your doorstep in an instant. Guestrooms have been furnished and decorated in a sense that will make you feel relaxed the moment you enter – not flashy, but certainly not decrepit.

Think large, comfortable mattresses, spacious areas to move, and minimal yet necessary furnishings. You can indulge in either a buffet or an Asian breakfast in the morning before you head out, and there’s a relaxing shared lounge area to sit back and drink tea in after a long day of exploring.  

Why Guests Love It : “The very hospitable host who resides nearby immediately addresses any problems that arise, has a ton of information to impart. It’s like you’re living in a manor amongst nature.”, “The environment is comfortable and quiet, the scenery is good, the host is super enthusiastic, it’s like returning home.”  

Book It Now : Mo Nei Garden B&B

Hsinchu Taiwan Hotel – Hotel Royal Hsinchu  

Live like a king at the Hotel Royal Hsinchu . The accommodation itself is a magnificent towering structure, lit up at night, complete with a carpeted foyer, an in-house bar, a fitness centre, an in-house Royal Beauty Salon, a heated indoor pool, and free shuttle services and Wi-Fi throughout. All guest rooms are supremely spacious, with large, comfortable beds, and offer flat-screen TV for private entertainment and a luxurious bathtub for soaking in after those long days spent exploring. There’s also 24-hour room service, so if you’re having cravings at 3:00am in the morning, don’t despair. Its location is a big plus, being only 20-minutes drive away from the Hsinchu HSR and the Cheng Huang Temple. This is luxury living at its finest.

Why Guests Love It : “Great location at the entrance to the industrial park. Awesome breakfast buffet with a huge spread. Rooms are on par with any 5-star hotel in the US.”, “It’s an excellent place to stay. Customer service is very helpful and reachable all the time.”, “The location is very convenient, and its staffs are very friendly.”

Book It Now : Hotel Royal Hsinchu  

What To Eat  In Hsinchu?

Beef noodles.

One of Taiwan’s most famous dishes, the Hsinchu take on this classic is unique and addictive, making waves with tourists who manage to find themselves in this little corner of the country. Fresh beef is stewed in a secret marinade sauce for hours to tenderize the meat, before being served with chewy noodles in a spicy hot soup.

Hakka Glutinous Rice Balls

A dish that’s descended from the ages, this traditional Hakka dish is a must-try when in Hsinchu. A chewy and savoury rice cake made from glutinous rice flour, it’s cooked in a pot of boiling soup along with common ingredients such as fried shallots, shrimp, vegetables and meat, and served to eat immediately whilst piping hot.

Duck Noodles

Another classic that the Hsinchu are loud and proud about, the duck noodles from this city are second-to-none. The fresh duck is soaked in sauce, smoked and cooked in a hot soup together with thick noodles in order for the soup and noodles to soak up the essence and flavor released from the smoked duck.  

Pork Stuffed Meatball  

Hsinchu does Taiwanese meatballs with a twist, serving up a fried starch-dough bun, filled with uniquely coloured red meat. The meatball is made by mixing lean meat with fermented rice and green onion, and then getting a small amount of the mixture and wrapping it inside starch dough. The meatball is steamed and then lightly deep-fried for that extra chewiness. It’s normally served with mashed fresh garlic and sweet sauce.  

The Best Things To Do Hsinchu

• Cheng Huang Temple & It’s Famous Food Market
• Hsinchu City Glass Museum

Hike the Eighteen Peaks (Shibajian Mountain)

• Leofoo Village Theme Park

Cheng Huang Temple & It’s Famous Food Market  

Also known as the ‘City God Temple’, Chenghuang Temple is first and foremost the highest ranking of all City God temples across the country. Being around 270 years old, it’s an absolute monster two-tier structure characterized by tall red pillars, shining colourful symbolic paintings, and the strong recurring smell of incense. Unlike many Asian temples located deep in the mountains, shrouded in mystery and grace, this temple is located amongst the concrete jungle, with scores of restaurants at the front selling snacks and drinks.  

Every year the birthday of the Cheng Huang God, which falls on November 29, is celebrated on the eve of the big day, with big celebrations all around including traditional parades and loud firecrackers. If you happen to be around this time, this is a unique cultural experience you would probably want to experience.

The Cheng Huang Temple Night Market is the best night food market in all of Hsinchu. It’s got deep roots from over 100 years ago, and has grown today to be a bustling night market that draws crowds from Taipei, Taoyuan, and Taichung to sample its wares. One of the irresistible charms of the Cheng Huang Temple Night Market is that much of its history is still present in the offerings today – you can see, feel, and taste the old-time flavours of Hsinchu through the soups, omelets, fried rice, fried chicken, vermicelli noodles, and various items sold at the long-standing restaurants within this market. Below are some standouts:

Legendary Bee-hoon Noodles  

The market is not huge – simply look for the stall selling bee-hoon noodles with workers in yellow caps and you’re at the right place. This stall has been in operation for more than 60 years, and serves up incredibly moist and flavorsome fried noodles; order that alongside a bowl of piping hot meatball soup and and you’ve got yourself a real winner.  

Guo-guo Thick Soup – Stall #75

Fans of starchy thick soup dishes, rejoice. This dish will apparently make you forget all those that you have eaten before and hail this as the king. Many ingredients such as bamboo, pork, and fish broth combine to make this a popular item that keeps locals coming back for more and newcomer’s eager to sample it.

• Address : 300, Taiwan, Hsinchu City, North District
• Access : It is a 9-minute walk from Hsinchu Station. Otherwise, take Bus No. 11, 11A, or 21, and hop off at the City God Temple stop.

Hsinchu City Glass Museum  

To promote Hsinchu’s thriving glass industry, the Hscinchu City Glass Museum exists to educate sightseeing visitors as well as interested business owners in understanding the techniques and processes of glass creation as well as the fascinating history behind it. There are also collections of glass art pieces that are on-of-a-kind that you can view as an exhibition. The museum seamlessly combines the cultural aspects of Hsinchu with sightseeing parallels so that visitors remain interested whilst they learn about such a unique trade.  

The museum itself is made of three stories of European-influenced oriental architecture – that in itself is an interesting sight to witness. When you enter, you can explore the entire place yourself within 1-2 hours – check out the lamp shades made entirely of glass, and even a jail cell that’s made entirely of glass. This museum makes for a great activity to spend your morning, or a leisurely activity to finish off your day.

• Address : No. 2, Section 1, Dongda Road, East District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300
• Access : From Hsinchu HSR Station, it is a 10-minute walk to the glass museum,

Beipu is a quaint little village located in the inlands of Hsinchu County. Its defining characteristic is that its relatively small population of around 10,000 people consisting mainly of people of Hakka descent, an ethnic aboriginal minority of Taiwan. Many of the historical features of the village has been retained and maintained to a high level of detail, and thus many tourists enjoy doing a day-trip out to Beipu to learn about and see the Hakka history and culture in flesh.

In particular, the Beipu Old Street area is a major tourist hot spot. It’s basically the main area within the village where you can stroll through the old windy alleyways to take in structural masterpiece as well as sample authentic Hakka cuisine and shop around for souvenirs. This area has made enormous efforts to preserve Hakka culture as a whole, and this is the main reason why people love coming here – without seeming over the top and laying it on thick, they manage to charm all the visitors into spread word about the delectableness of Hakka cuisine (e.g. ground tea and persimmon cakes) and fascinating aspects of their lives.

Another notable point of interest to check out in Beipu is the Ci-Tian Temple. Located in the centre of the village, it’s a wonderfully quaint worship area that was build in the 1800s, and always brimming (albeit quietly) with locals sending prayers and tourists respectfully admiring the structure.  

If you are traveling to Beipu during the end of April until the beginning of May, you might just be able to catch the famous ‘firefly season’. For two weeks, whilst the Tung flowers are in blossom, fireflies will come out in abundance in the surrounding mountains. In the evening is the best time to experience and possibly capture some gorgeous images of this phenomenon.

• Address : 314, Taiwan, Hsinchu County, Beipu Township
• Access : From Hsinchu HSR Station, take the Shishan Tourist Shuttle to Beipu.  

As expected of a city in Taiwan, a list of ‘things to do’ is not complete unless you have a hike or a trail included, and the Eighteen Peaks trail is Hsinchu’s gift to the world. Before you get too excited and head off to pack your hiking shoes, we’ve got a warning for you: this isn’t for the bold-hearted. Instead of bouldering across cliffs, pulling yourself up with ropes whilst sweat drips from your head to your toes, this is a rather leisurely activity. You’ll be amongst scores of others, many of which are locals, who are escaping the city for some fresh air and possibly to do some light exercising; you’ll see vendors selling fresh fruit and vegetables as you walk around, and often there will be traditional music being played by musicians on the road – all in all, it’s quite the relaxing experience.

In saying that, the walk is a little more then a cruise in the park. From the station, you’ll need to walk around 30-minutes before getting to the entrance, and from then on, there are plenty of (relatively easy and flat) steps to take. However, along the way, stop and smell the flowers (quite literally, especially during spring time), listen to the unique bird calls, and just generally enjoy time away from any hustle and bustle. There are pagodas that you can sit down and relax in once you decide you need a rest. To really make the most of your time, pack a light picnic and have lunch under the shade.

• Address : 300, East District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan 300
• Access : From Hsinchu Station, it is a 30-minute walk to the park.

Leofoo Village Theme Park  

We bet that this is something you didn’t expect to come across in Hsinchu! Dubbed by some as the best theme park in all of Taiwan, if you’re a rides enthusiast, a theme park fiend, or a roller-coaster chaser, then this place is definitely where you’d want to visit. Encompassing a safari park, an amusement park, and a water park all in one, the Leofoo Village Theme Park packs rides and attractions suitable for ages ranging from toddlers to adults, and everyone in between.

There are four areas to explore: African Safari, Wild West, South Pacific, and Arabian Kingdom. Of course, all areas have their own unique traits, but some of the most popular rides across the entire park include:

• Captain Cook’s Swinging Ship (South Pacific) – claimed as the biggest rollercoaster in all of Taiwan. It offers unmatched views of the entire park at the top.  
• Sultan’s Adventure (Arabian Kingdom) – a high-speed jeep ride.
• Sahara Twist (African Safari) – a twist-and-turn rollercoaster.
• Animal feeding/horse riding (African Safari)
• Mighty Mountain Flume Adventure (South Pacific) – a ride where you float along on a log throughout and it slides down into water at the end, creating massive waves.  
• Screaming Condor (Wild West) – an inverted rollercoaster.

The park, at its peak operation, boasts more than 30 different rollercoasters for both the faint and the bold-hearted, and its zoo is renowned across the country for its wide variety of animals and suitability for all ages. Throughout the day, there are usually water shows, large parades, and dance performances to watch, and unlike many of the theme parks in other popular tourist areas in the world, the average wait time during weekdays can come down to only 20-minutes!

• Address : 306, Taiwan, Hsinchu County, Guanxi Township
• Access : Head to Zhongli Station. Exit at the Front Exit (前站), and head to the Hsinchu Bus Stop across the street.   From there, take Bus No. 5653 to Leofoo Village Theme Park ($62 TWD, 60-minutes). From the Hsinchu HSR Station, you can also take a taxi for 20-minutes to the theme park.  
• Hours : September – June: 9:00am – 5:00pm, July – August: 9:00am – 8:00pm;
• African Safari animal sanctuaries : September – June: 9:30am – 4:30pm, July – August: 9:30am – 7:00pm
• Cost : Adult: $999 TWD ($33USD), Child: $699 TWD ($23USD)
• Book here with discount :  Leofoo Village Theme Park

For some, this list might constitute just a day trip to explore the attractions that really stand out; for others, a few days of rest and relaxation whilst being educated on the fascinating history and techniques of glass creation and exploring temples and trails might be the way to go; for others still, two days of jam-packed activities including spending an entire day on rollercoasters to be followed by subsequent food-hunting via local eateries and night markets sounds like the perfect side trip. Whatever it may be, we’re hoping Hsinchu City offers you the heightened cultural experience we know its capable of.

The food sounds great! I love Chinese food, and these dishes and snacks all look very interesting. The theme park sounds really fun, and the Beipu village is interesting. I’m researching places to live in Taiwan, and Hsinchu is definitely near or at the top of my list. This guide was really informative.

Thank you for a nice article about Hsinchu. As I’m planning a 10 day trip in Taiwan I’m looking for places to visit outside Taipei. Hsinchu was suggested to us as a town with concentrated Taiwan Hakka ethnic group. But there are not too many resources about Hsinchu. I’m glad I found this article.

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Taiwanese Secrets Travel Guide

Travel to Hsinchu “The Windy City” of Taiwan

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Get travel information about hotels, restaurants, attractions, and nightlife.

Sad to say, but Hsinchu City doesn’t have a very good reputation among expats in Taiwan. Over the years, I’ve heard lots of negative comments like: “ it’s just another boring industrial city “, and “ the weather is always bad “, or even “ there’s nothing good to see, do, eat, or drink in Hsinchu “. And I don’t really agree with these views…

Save on hotels in the area!

I’ve visited the area a couple of times, and  I find Hsinchu to be a very pleasant travel destination  with some truly fascinating attractions, great restaurants, and a descent nightlife scene –  by Taiwanese standard.

Visit my pizza restaurant in Hsinchu tonight!

Still, don’t get me wrong…  Hsinchu shouldn’t be a priority on your travel itinerary  – if time is an issue – and you shouldn’t plan to spend more than one day there either, unless you’re going to teach English or study Mandarin Chinese. There are places around Taiwan which have much more to offer in terms of beauty, culture, and entertainment.

Hsinchu is also spelled Xinzhu in some books and on maps.

Where is Hsinchu?

Hsinchu is located in the  northern part of Taiwan , along the west coast, right by the Taiwan Strait – the body of water that separates the island from mainland China. It is south of Taipei and it takes about an hour to travel between these two cities by car, bus, or train.

Best Things to do in Hsinchu

• Meander around the  old part of town  near the train station.
• Visit ancient Chinese  temples .
• Eat traditional  Taiwanese snacks  at the food stalls outside Chenghuang Temple.
• Have a beer at one of the  small pubs  by the old moat.

Best Time to Visit Hsinchu – Weather

When should you visit the “Windy City”?

Like most Taiwanese cities,  Hsinchu can be visited year-round. Summers can be extremely hot, but there’s usually a nice breeze to cool you down. Typhoons commonly hit Taiwan between July and October. Winters are chilly, so pack up a warm jacket if you plan to travel there around Christmas or Chinese New Year.

Taiwan has a tropical climate, so the weather can change drastically in a matter of minutes! Always bring an umbrella or a waterproof jacket with you when leaving your hotel.

Attractions – Recommended Itinerary

So… What are the best places to visit in Hsinchu City? How should you travel around the city? This itinerary should be a good start:

The following tour starts at the old train station and takes you to some of the best attractions around the city.  Half a day should be enough to see most attractions  (on foot) in the old part of town.

The East Gate (a remnant of the old city wall) is only a short walk north from the train station on Zhongzheng Rd. It is in the middle of a busy roundabout and it’s an  interesting subject for night photography.  From there, you can walk either north or south along the old city moat (a canal lined up with trees), where you’ll find tons of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Dongning Temple

From the East Gate, head west on Dongmen Rd until you see a colorful Chinese temple facade on your right. Dongning Temple isn’t the most attractive place of worship in Taiwan, but it still has plenty to keep your senses busy and it surely is worth a quick stop.

As you enter the temple (from the right entrance) make sure to take a look at the striking,  tall Chinese door gods’ paintings  behind the temple’s entrance. Take your time to survey the premises (walking counterclockwise) and observe the way Taiwanese people pay their respect to their ancestors: the burning of incense, the lighting of candles, the offerings of food on the altars, the burning of ghost money, and all the other puzzling rituals…

Chenghuang Temple

Chenghuang Temple is only ten minutes further down the road (west) from Dongning Temple. You can’t miss it – it’s on your left, at a bustling intersection where dozens of  food stalls  are set alongside the road.

Chenghuang Temple is Hsinchu’s  busiest place of worship  as well as a favorite place to eat for the locals. The temple’s front hall has been turned into a lively food court where scores of eateries cram every available inch of space. Traditional  Taiwanese opera  is often performed on the courtyard. You should also take the time to look for the depictions of hell on the walls inside the temple. The whole place is very photogenic.

Changhe Temple

Changhe Temple is located in the northern part of old Hsinchu. To get there, walk north along Beimen Street, just accross from Chenghuan Temple. This Chinese shrine is dedicated to Mazu, Goddess of the Sea, and it’s got some very  interesting statues and images of gods.

Old Qing Dynasty Buildings

Zheng Family Shrine and Jinshi Mansion (built in the early 1800s) are two  Chinese architectural relics  located just a bit further down Beimen St., about 5 minutes past Changhe Temple.

They are closed to public and both of them are a sad sight – it seems that no one cares about the historical value they carry and both establishments are left unmaintained. There was even a huge pile of rubbish and an abandoned car in front of one of the mansions last time I visited…

Restaurants – Places to Eat – Dining

Hsinchu has heaps of good restaurants, teahouses, cafes, BBQ places, noodle shops and food stalls. If you follow the itinerary described above you’ll find  lots of places to eat on Dongmen and Beimen streets.

For cheap, traditional Taiwanese food or for a small snack, head for  Chenghuang Temple.  As I mentioned earlier, this area is packed with food stalls which sell stuff for all kinds of palates.

Pizza Rock Hsinchu

I have a restaurant in Hsinchu, it’s called Pizza Rock, and it really rocks! We serve thin-crust Italian pizza, panini, baked pasta, salads, imported drinks and desserts. Here is a picture of me with my super-team at Pizza Rock Hsinchu:

You can find us at:  251 Guangfu Rd, Section 1, Hsinchu City

Or you can call us for pizza delivery at:  (03) 577-5705

Want to know more about my pizzeria in Hsinchu? This page will give you answers!

Shopping in Hsinchu

Sogo  (a modern 14-story mall) is right in front of the train station. It’s an excellent place to take a break from the heat on scorching summer afternoons. The food court on the 13th floor has some decent restaurants and it’s also one of the best places to get views of the city from above.

The entire area  around the train station  is like a mega shopping mall. Most businesses and shops here sell stuff like shoes, clothes, Chinese gifts, tea, electronics, jewelry, and of course…  food !

Eslite Bookstore  is another nice place to take a break from the heat, and it has the biggest selection of English books and magazines. You’ll find Eslite Bookstore on the canal, south of East Gate, at the corner of Datong and Xinyi Rd.

Accommodation

Budget accommodation in hsinchu.

The East City Hotel  is one of the cheapest places to sleep in Hsinchu. The rooms are small and basic, but the location is hard to beat – it’s only a 2 minute walk from East Gate. You shouldn’t pay more than 800NT for a double room. To get there from East Gate, head north (right) along the old moat (the canal) and you’ll see a sign on your left after about a hundred meter. The hotel is behind Garden 3 Restaurant.

Address: 1, Lane 5, Fuhou St. Tel: 03-5222648

• Find budget hotels in Hsinchu!
• See my 3 favorite hotels in the city!

Nightlife in Hsinchu

Bars / pubs / beer houses.

If you’re looking for a place to have a drink with the locals, check out the little bars  around the old moat , north of East Gate, Between Minzu Rd and Renyi St. From the East Gate, take a right (north), walk along the canal, and look for small Budweiser / Heineken signs on the right side of the canal. My two favorite places are Coach Pub and Pumpkin Bar on Minzu Rd, Lane 33.

Warning:   Stay away from the British theme pub  Pig and Whistle. Why? Over the years, I’ve heard stories about foreigners being beaten up in that bar for absolutely no reason. Do a Google search about the place and you’ll find a couple of scary stories about this bar.

Where can you dance in Hsinchu?

If you feel like hitting the dance floor, get out of Hsinchu! Jump on the High Speed Train and  head for Taipei  where you’ll have a much better selection of discos, clubs and lounges.

Getting There and Away

The most convenient way to travel to Hsinchu from Taipei, Taichung, or from other cities in the northern part of Taiwan, is by  normal train (TRA). You should only consider taking the High Speed Train (HSR) if you’re traveling from Tainan or Kaohsiung, since the HSR station is 30 minutes away (by taxi) from the city center. It is also possible to reach the city by bus.

The old train station  is conveniently located in the old part of town where most of the attractions, restaurants and hotels are. The major  bus stations  – for both local and long distance travel – are all situated in this area, too.

Normal Train – Travel Time and Fare

Taipei to Hsinchu: fast/slow train; NT185/120; 60/90 minutes Taichung to Hsinchu: fast/slow; NT200/130; 60/90 minutes Kaohsiung to Hsinchu: fast; around NT450; 3.5 hours

High Speed Train – Travel Time and Fare

Kaohsiung to Hsinchu: NT1200; 90 minutes Tainan to Hsinchu: NT1100; 75 minutes Taichung to Hsinchu: NT410; 30 minutes Taipei to Hsinchu: NT290; 30 minutes

From Taoyuan International Airport

There are no direct buses from Taoyuan International Airport to Hsinchu, but the  U-Bus Company  offers a link, where you have to change bus in Zhongli. You’ll find U-Bus ticket counters in both terminal 1 and 2 at the airport in Taoyuan. It’s also possible to rent a car or get a chauffeur at Taoyuan International Airport.

From Taipei, Taichung or Kaohsiung, take  highway number 1 or 3.  Make sure you’ve got enough change to buy tickets at the toll booths along the way. You have to pay NT40 at each stop. The speed limit is 100km/h on highway no.1 and 110km/h on no.3.  Watch out for speed cameras!

Getting Around Hsinchu

If you’re planning to only visit the old part of the city around the train station, don’t worry about public transportation – downtown Hsinchu is quite compact and  it is easy to reach most places of interests on foot.

Hsinchu Map

On this map of Hsinchu, you’ll find attractions, museums, hotels, bars, shops, restaurants and other points of interests.

Check out my  Hsinchu photo gallery  here!  This huge collection of Hsinchu pictures has images of Chinese temples, Taiwanese restaurants, people, food, markets and some cool cityscapes!

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The Top 10 Things to Do in Hsinchu, Taiwan

Sightseeing

With almost 400 years of history, Hsinchu is one of the oldest cities in Taiwan and is deeply rooted in the island's traditions and culture. A major stop on the THSR, Taiwan High Speed Rail line, there's plenty of things to do in Hsinchu to warrant visiting the city and its surrounding area.

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Hsinchu Zoo

Walk down hsinchu moat park, hsinchu east gate, neiwan old street, leofoo theme park, hsinchu fish harbor, hsinchu city god temple, hakka culture at beipu, green grass lake.

Photo by Richie Chan/Shutterstock

The oldest zoo in Taiwan, Hsinchu Zoo has been welcoming visitors since 1936. Recently redeveloped in 2019, the zoo is now much more modern and offers beautiful enclosures for the animals there. You'll find a number of native Taiwanese species along with animals from all over the world there, a total of around 300.

Photo by weniliou/Shutterstock

Nestled deep into the mountains of central Taiwan, Smangus is an aboriginal village home to the Atayal people. Once known as Taiwan's most isolated village, the construction of a mountain road now links up the area to Hsinchu. Encompassing the mountain side at a height of 1,500 meters, Smangus is the perfect escape to nature. The area around the village is known for its ancient cypress trees that date back to over a thousand years old along with bamboo forests. Despite the feeling of isolation, there's plenty of things to do around Smangus. It's a great place to get to know Taiwanese aboriginal culture by staying overnight in the village and taking part in performances, songs and feasts.

Once a moat surrounding the walls of Hsinchu, this waterfront park is a picturesque stretch of the city. Hsinchu Moat Park is a lovely spot to take a stroll and admire the scenery, just a short walk from Hsinchu Station. The park is also beautiful at night, when its illuminations are lit up.

As you walk down Hsinchu moat park, make sure to check out the old city's east gate also known as Yin Hsi East Gate. The last surviving gate of Hsinchu's walled city, the structure was built in 1827.

Another of Hsinchu's scenic mountain towns, it's much easier to reach than Smangus, with the Neiwan railway line taking passengers straight from Hsinchu to the town. Neiwan and the historic Neiwan Old Street are also famous spots for getting to know Hakka culture, settled by Hakka residents throughout the years. Neiwan was once one of Taiwan's many coal mining and lumber towns that all but shut down when the country started to import cheaper coal from abroad. After being revitalized by tourism, Neiwan is now a blast to the past, showcasing its historic buildings, Hakka culture and delicious street food and snacks sold along the old street. Apart from exploring the town itself, being located in a mountain valley offers plenty of things to do and see around Neiwan. Apart from hiking trails and hot springs to soak in, the forests around Neiwan are one of the best spots to view fireflies in Taiwan, around late April to early May.

Photo by commons.wikimedia.org

One of Taiwan's most famous theme parks, Leofoo Theme Park has plenty of things to do to make for a great day out. The park contains a few different themed areas such as African Safari and Arabian Kingdom that each have rides and attractions including some popular rollercoasters.

Photo by Sean Hsu/Shutterstock

Escape to Hsinchu's coastline and head to Nanliao Fish Harbor, this small harbor area has been redeveloped into a beautiful tourist attraction with restaurants and seafood markets. It's also a popular area for cycling, there's a 17 kilometer dedicated bike path that runs along the coastline offering picturesque views along the way.

One of the most famous of Taiwan's city god temples, Hsinchu's was built in 1747 and has long been a bustling center of life for residents of the city. Also known as Chenghuang Temple, it's also the site of a night market that opens up in the evening, selling delicious Taiwanese street food.

The Hakka are Taiwan's second largest ethnic group and make up around a fifth of the population of Taiwan. Offering a different side of Chinese culture to what you'll find elsewhere around Taiwan, the town of Beipu is a window into the past, with many Qing Dynasty era buildings still standing and age-old restaurants offering Hakka delicacies and dishes to try.

While it might not be quite as incredible as the famous Sun Moon Lake , Green Grass Lake just outside of Hsinchu City is a lush green paradise that's well worth visiting. The lake is especially picturesque just after sunrise in the morning or in the evening when the scenery is lit up.

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Hsinchu travel guide

Hsinchu County is located in northwest Taiwan, bordering Taoyuan County to the north and Miaoli County to the south. Facing the Taiwan Strait to the west, the county is characterized by rolling hills, tablelands, and mountains.

Hsinchu City, formerly administered by Hsinchu County, became an independent provincial city in 1982. The county administrative center subsequently moved to Zhubei Township.

Hsinchu County was once home to indigenous Taokas, Saisiyat, and Atayal peoples. Over time, it became a major settlement area for Hakka people. Influenced by neighboring Hsinchu City, the county is now developing into a hub for high-tech industry, attracting many technology universities.

Tourism resources highlight aboriginal culture, quaint old streets, humanities museums, and natural scenery - all evoking a strong nostalgic atmosphere that defines Hsinchu. Visitors can experience indigenous cuisines, temples, historic architecture, hiking trails, hot springs, and pastoral farm stays that transport them to a simpler time. With one foot in the future and one foot in the past, Hsinchu County offers a unique blend of technological progress and cultural traditions.

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Dressing guidelines.

Taichung has mild winters from December to March, averaging around 18°C. Pack pants, long sleeves and a medium-weight jacket. Summers from May to October are hot and humid, with temperatures steady around 27°C. June to August sees highs around 32°C. Light pants or shorts with short sleeve shirts work well. Bring a thin extra layer like a jacket or sweater for cool evenings or windy days.

On hot sunny days, don't forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Umbrellas help in sudden storms too. Pack clothes that dry quickly if caught in rain. Locals dress casually, so shorts, skirts, t-shirts and sandals are comfortable for exploring Taichung's neighborhoods and markets on foot. Check the forecast to confirm, but packing layers for Taichung's fluctuating conditions ensures you'll stay cool while enjoying all the city has to offer.

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As a leading travel agency in Hsinchu, Exploring Tourism aims to make your visit truly unforgettable. Our expert Hsinchu travel agent know all about its vibrant culture, history, and hidden gems, ensuring that you experience all it has to offer during your stay here. When you choose us as your travel agency in Hsinchu, you gain access to our extensive knowledge and expertise. Every traveler is unique; therefore, we take the time to listen carefully to your preferences and interests before creating tailored itineraries that best meet your needs. No matter whether it is history, food, or adventure you seek, we have something in Hsinchu just right for you!

Our travel agent in Hsinchu will take care of organizing all aspects of your trip, from booking flights and accommodations to organizing guided tours and activities. We collaborate closely with a network of trusted partners and local tour operators in Hsinchu to create an authentic and immersive experience for you in Hsinchu. From exploring historical landmarks to indulging in culinary delights, we will take you on a journey that showcases the true essence of Hsinchu.

Hsinchu is a city steeped in history, boasting numerous iconic landmarks and attractions. From the modern wonders and the historic places, our sightseeing tours ensure you don't miss out on the city's architectural marvels, cultural hotspots, and hidden gems.

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Hsinchu is a treasure trove of attractions, offering something for every traveler. Explore the shop for souvenirs at the colorful bazaars, visit the religious places, or take a peaceful stroll in the serene gardens. With our expert guidance, you'll discover the best places to visit and experience the true essence of Hsinchu.

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“Cruise Style” RAILWAY TRIPS

Take a taiwan cruise … on railway tracks.

TEXT / RICK CHARETTE PHOTOS / CHEN CHENG-KUO

Traveling by train – for work, personal matters, and pleasure – has long been an intrinsic part of Taiwan life. In recent years something new, the concept of “cruise-style rail travel,” has taken firm root. If full-package “let us do the driving” island touring sounds like your kind of thing, grab yourself a coffee or tea, sit yourself down with this article in hand, and let us tell you all about it.

The people of Taiwan enjoy a comprehensive, first-class rail transportation network, encompassing regular rail, high-speed rail, mass rapid transit (metro), and narrow-gauge tourism-oriented branch line services, and make enthusiastic use of it. In rural areas, especially along the less densely populated East Coast region, the regular-rail facilities are used both by locals and self-help travelers much in the same way as a bus service.

In 2010, the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA), operator of the regular-rail and branch line services, imported a new travel concept: cruise-style rail tours. The rail-cruise experiments rolled out were a hit, and the program has grown steadily since.

Two of the TRA’s prime goals in introducing the land-cruise excursions were promotion of the relaxed “slow travel” lifestyle with the Taiwan public and the generation of more people-traffic at lesser-used rail stations, with concomitant increased opportunity for station-vicinity businesses. The popularity of the program and gradually expanding number of outings developed means that major, secondary, and true “off the beaten track” destinations are now packaged together, providing a unique and rewarding holistic view into Taiwan life for travelers from overseas.

The seamless package trips include transportation, accommodation, and food. Save yourself all the planning hassles and other bothers involved in getting yourself to so many places in one trip. All you have to do is show up at the launch station, and at the end of the adventure you are delivered right back at the same spot.

A few years ago the TRA commissioned EZ Travel to design its budget-friendly cruise-train itineraries and run the actual tours. Established in 2000, EZ Travel is today one of Taiwan’s leading travel agencies, both in quality and size, and the recognized leader in handling rail trips. It’s long been known for expertise in customized leisure and corporate trips, as well as for its round-island outings.

To give readers a full picture of what one of these cruises is like, a Travel in Taiwan team recently joined a 2-day weekend adventure showcasing the South Link Line, the southernmost section of Taiwan’s round-island railway loop, between the cities of Kaohsiung in the west and Taitung in the east.

The cruise served up scenic, cultural, hot-spring, and railway-related enjoyments. The keystones of the non-stop scenic attractions were the beautiful coastlines along the Taiwan Strait and Pacific Ocean, the rugged and nigh-empty southern mountains, and the Zhiben Forest Recreation Area. The key cultural foci were southern small-town life and the region’s artistic life, including the worldview of local indigenous artists . Taiwan’s beloved hot-spring culture was explored with time spent in the celebrated Zhiben Hot Springs resort area, with accommodation at its premier hotel. Rail buffs were especially enthralled with the bonus features exclusive to EZ Travel’s dedicated cruise trains, including a photo-opp stop at a mountain station not visited by regular trains, a long 25kph roll along an especially grand Pacific-side section of track, and special traditional-style railway biandang (boxed lunches).

Taichung Launch & Kaohsiung Museum of Arts

Our cruise began with embarking on a dedicated train at Taichung’s Xinwuri Railway Station . Cruise-trippers could board at any TRA station between Taichung and Kaohsiung’s Xinzuoying Railway Station. South of Taichung the countryside opens up, our land-cruiser rolling through neat fields of paddy rice and colorful fruits and vegetables. In the background we could spot the jagged peaks of the central mountains, soaring ever higher toward the east.

The fun began in earnest on our Kaohsiung approach. The dedicated guide for our carriage formally introduced the trip, our group-travel rules, and our first sightseeing stop – the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts (KMFA; ammpc.kmfa.gov.tw ). At Kaohsiung’s Xinzuoying Railway Station the EZ Travel crew escorted us on a platform transfer and 3-stop ride by local commuter train to the Museum of Fine Arts Railway Station.

The KMFA is in 40ha Neiwipi Cultural Park, once the site of a large wetland and irrigation ponds. Among the park’s other attractions are the Children’s Art Museum, Sculpture Park, Ecology Park, and Austronesian Cultural Area. Walk the beautifully landscaped grounds, along the large, tranquil lake and pathways lined with Madagascar Almond trees, inspecting some of the 37 large-scale installation sculptures, which have English introductions.

The 4-story museum primarily celebrates contemporary works by Taiwanese artists, with a strong focus on creations by artists from the south, including indigenous artists. At the facility’s core is the Sculpture Hall, entered from the spacious first-floor lobby, which soars four stories high and is topped with a large skylight, draping the artworks in natural lighting.

South Link Line Taiwan’s first rail line, connecting Taipei and Keelung , was built in the late Qing Dynasty by Taiwan’s governor. The Japanese built much of today’s network when they ruled Taiwan from 1895 to 1945. Round-the-island rail travel only became possible in 1991, when the South Link Line was opened. This made east-west travel much easier for residents of the island’s southern half, and presented a fresh exploit for rail-travel enthusiasts, taking you quickly from the azures of the Taiwan Strait through rugged, largely unsettled mid-height mountains – via many a tunnel – to the inshore marble-green and offshore steel-blue waters of the Pacific side. The line officially extends from Fangliao town, south of Kaohsiung, to Taitung City, but most travelers begin/end their trips in Kaohsiung.

Down the Coast from Kaohsiung, Across the Mountains, and Up the Coast to Zhiben

South of Kaohsiung, as the train moved through more luxuriant farmland the central mountains and sparkling Taiwan Strait started to close in on one another. Not far south of Fangliao town, a Day 2 stop to be introduced later, they met. The train jumped from the plain to hug mountainside above the rocky coast. The panorama was striking, large Little Liuqiu island out in the strait, Kaohsiung’s skyscraper cluster looking like a miniature model-set to the north. After a few minutes came a turn inward for the cross-mountain run.

The many tunnels mean this region’s sparsely populated low mountains are conquered quickly. A special scenic stop was made at Fangye, a traffic-control signal station not visited by regular trains. Westbound trains burst from the mountain-base tunnel beside the station, the South Link Line’s highest, making for thrill-inducing head-on photos.

After our train popped out on the east coast it trundled along for some time, northward bound, high above the pounding Pacific breakers. The most exquisitely “tropical Eden-esque” of the between-tunnel sections is just south of pretty Duoliang Railway Station; on the Day 2 return the train sauntered along here at just 25kph, maximizing viewing time and pleasure.

The steep cliffsides give way to farm-decorated sloping mountainside around Taimali, a Paiwan tribe village. Everyone disembarked and boarded the coaches that then road-cruised us to all destinations until the Day 2 train return. First up was the Millennium Dawn Memorial Park , on the section of a wide, kilometers-long, coconut palm-fringed beach fronting the village. The name commemorates Year 2000 first-sunrise celebrations held here.

Zhiben Hot Springs & Forest Recreation Area

The evening of Day 1 and early morning of Day 2 were spent in the renowned Zhiben Hot Springs resort area, just south of Taitung City. It’s a short distance from the coast, at the mouth of a long, sinewy mountain valley carved out by the Zhiben River . The exposed rock of the riverbed runs high up the valley sides, demonstrating how the waters swell dramatically when typhoons visit.

The Japanese developed the area as a healing resort during their period of colonial rule – one of their earliest-targeted mineral-spring locations – after systematically mapping Taiwan’s natural resources upon takeover. These resort developments were the fountainhead of Taiwan’s hot-spring culture, now so intrinsic to the Taiwanese character. The local indigenous natives had long been using the healing waters, digging soak pools in the gravelly riverbed. Our cruise group stayed at the forest-surrounded 5-star Hotel Royal Chihpen ( www.hotelroyal.com.tw ), long-reigning empress of Zhiben’s forest of hot-spring hotels.

A short distance further inland from the hot-spring area, the valley deepens dramatically and the valley road ends. The 110ha Zhiben Forest Recreation Area ( recreation.forest.gov.tw ), our Day 2 morning entertainment, was reached across a brilliant-red bridge that soars across the chasm. We perused the visitor center first, home to displays on the local geology and flora/fauna, then explored the trail-web that brings you to and fro, high and low, across the mountain slope. The steep Brave Man’s Slope Trail is the star (792 steps!), leading you past magnificent white-bark banyan trees born centuries ago.

The last sightseeing stop on our rail-cruise trip was Fangliao . The big draw here, immediately left of the station, is the Fangliao F3 Art District, a complex of re-charactered rail-employee dorms, offices, and other facilities now home to tourist-oriented artist studios, cafes, and eateries.

Other Rail-Cruise Travel Options

EZ Travel is constantly offering new cruise-train package options. Special foci are season-specific regional tourism highlights and local festivals. An example is the famed daylily-bloom season on the mountain slopes around Taimali, the Paiwan tribe village visited in this article. New itineraries are published three months prior to departure. A summertime highlight is the use of steam engines on selected outings, in June/July; early booking is a must for these.

Check out all that’s on offer at this website address: www.eztravel.com.tw/event/cruisestrain/ . Small discounts are offered to earlybird registrants, those booking more than one person to a hotel room, etc. Large discounts are offered for youngsters, and only a token fee is required for infants. Note that currently EZ Travel offers only limited English, on its website and among its office and tour-crew staff.

To give you an idea of the tour-option diversity, we’ve selected two outings from the autumn menu for brief introduction. One explores the island’s east side, one the west, and although the two are in close proximity as the eagle flies, your sights, experiences, and memories will be worlds apart.

September 13 launch (3-day outing)/ Taitung Night Visit to Xiaoyeliu – East Rift Valley Granary Festivities Music Concert – National Museum of Prehistory

This is a Friday~Sunday cruise that falls on the Mid-Autumn Festival long-weekend holiday. Launch is from Taipei Main Station. On Day 1 , the first sightseeing stop is Toucheng Old Street , the first commercial street in the first Han Chinese settlement on Yilan County’s Yilan Plain, dating to the early 1800s. In Taitung County, Sanxiantai , the Platform of the Three Immortals, is one of the East Coast’s most iconic tourist sites. Reached via a dragon-resembling arched pedestrian bridge, its volcanic-rock bluffs are said to resemble three petrified Daoist deities who visited here in the mythic past. Xiaoyeliu , just above Taitung City, is a geology-art masterpiece – a tidal-zone park rich with honeycomb rock, mushroom rock, tofu rock, and cuestas. It is visited at night, multiplying the magic.

Day 2 experiences include a visit to the Dulan Sugar Factory , a sugarcane-processing complex opened by the Japanese now home to myriad cultural-creative enterprises; the Yuan Sen Applied Botanical Garden, a low-mountain 5ha tourist-oriented edu-tational attraction dedicated to medicinal herbs and biotechnology; the Rice County School , which teaches about Guanshan Township’s history as a paddy-rice breadbasket, with DIY activities aplenty; and a nighttime pop-music concert in Chishang town that is part of the annual East Rift Valley Granary Festivities.

There are two Day 3 stops. First is the Taiwan Museum of Prehistory , a world-class Taitung City facility that explains the region’s indigenous-peoples presence. Second is the Tangweigou Jiaosi Hot Spring Park , in central Jiaoxi, a popular Yilan hot-spring town near Toucheng.

September 28 launch (2-day outing)/ Chiayi Culture Tour – Alishan Forest Railway

This is a Monday/Tuesday outing launched from Taipei Main Station. On Day 1, the first walkabout attraction visited is Chiayi Park . Chiayi is a small city in the middle of the western plains that was built on surrounding-region farm produce and its railway connection to the mountainous Alishan region, constructed by the Japanese in the early 20 th century to extract its timber.

Chiayi Park, also opened by the Japanese, is a landscaped beauty laid out in tiers. The 62m-high Sun Shooting Tower stands where a Shinto shrine once stood. Its shape symbolizes Alishan’s giant trees, its name an indigenous-tribe myth. The elegant wood-built Showa J18 – Chiayi City Historic Archives Building originally housed the shrine’s offices and fasting rooms. Not far from the park is the Chiayi Old Priso n, the only one remaining of five Japanese-run prisons. The last inmates were moved out in 1998.

The Alishan Forest Railway, a magnificent work of engineering, is today an iconic Taiwan tourism draw. The incredibly twisting narrow-gauge line runs 71.4km from Chiayi City up to today’s Alishan Forest Recreation Area , at an altitude of about 2,200m, on the way traversing 49 tunnels and 77 bridges. On Day 2 you ride the line from Chiayi up to Fenqihu village, at about 1,400m. Originally established to serve as a half-way point repair and maintenance depot, Fenqihu is spread out over a mountain slope, has a narrow Old Street stuffed with tiny tourist shops, and is surrounded by pleasant forest paths. Also visited is Zhangnaoliao Station, at 543m, a rarely encountered zig-zag station.

Railway Biandang Then the Japanese ruled Taiwan they introduced their bento, or boxed lunch, tradition. Called biandang in Mandarin Chinese, a derivative of the Japanese name, today they’re sold everywhere. But initially they were a railway specialty, sold on platforms to travelers. In recent decades a surge in interest and pride in local history has led to a resurgence of the railway biandang . Eateries clustered around stations sell their versions, and the TRA prepares its own, selling over 10 million annually on its trains and at station kiosks. The classic version contains a bed of rice, meat cut (deep-fried chicken leg, pork cutlet, etc.), and assorted side goodies such as soy-marinated egg, tofu/beancurd, and pickled veggies. EZ Travel provides “special edition” deluxe railway biandang showcasing the specialties of the region you’re traveling.

Practical EZ Trip Things to Know

Each dedicated “cruise-liner” train has six cars, with a maximum of 277 other cruiser friends on your trip (ie, beyond you and staff). Embark and, on the return run, disembark at different designated stations; for example, on the South Link Line trip this meant anywhere between Fengyuan Railway Station in Taichung and Kaohsiung’s Xinzuoying; your hop-on and -off points need not be the same.

There is one EZ Travel guide per car, available at all times. Your guide also looks out for you and your fellow train-carriage friends when traveling on the bus to/from sightseeing spots, though when at the spots themselves you can wander on your own, with EZ Travel staff posted at various points to watch out. You can opt out of any of the bus-travel sections, but are responsible for catching up with the group on your own; bus departures at follow-on points will not be delayed for you.

EZ Travel provides water on the trains and buses, and the TRA provides on-train snack/drink/souvenir service. When visiting both train and bus sightseeing points, luggage can be safely left on-board.

All meals are provided as part of your travel package, from the Day 1 lunch to final-day dinner. On the South Link Line trip the first and last meals were the on-train railway boxed lunches introduced earlier. The Day 1 dinner and Day 2 breakfast were in the Zhiben hotel’s first-rate Chinese/international buffet restaurant. The Day 2 lunch was at a restaurant serving Chinese banquet-style and indigenous dishes.

Further reading on other sites The Beautiful Island/Polish Girl in Taiwan: Daylilies season in Taidong’s Taimali

About the author

• Rick Charette

A Canadian, Rick has been resident in Taiwan almost continually since 1988. His book, article, and other writings, on Asian and North American destinations and subjects—encompassing travel, culture, history, business/economics—have been published widely overseas and in Taiwan. He has worked with National Geographic, Michelin, APA Insight Guides, and other Western groups internationally, and with many local publishers and central/city/county government bodies in Taiwan. Rick also handles a wide range of editorial and translation (from Mandarin Chinese) projects. 

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Visa-free travel to Russia

Several countries now have bilateral agreements in place with the Russian Federation to allow visa-free travel to Russia for their citizens. Unfortunately, however, there is no indication that similar agreements will be reached with the EU, the US, or the UK any time soon.

If you are not a citizen of one of the countries below and do not hold a diplomatic passport, the only other way to visit the Russian Federation without a visa is on a cruise ship to St. Petersburg. This exemption allows you to stay in the city for up to 72 hours without a visa on the condition that you are sleeping on the ship and are accompanied at all times by a licensed tour guide. If your cruise calls in St. Petersburg for 48 or 72 hours, there are companies offering shore tours which include a day in Moscow.

The same visa-free regime is applied to passengers on ferries from Helsinki and Tallinn operated by the company St. Peter Line, although in the case of ferry passengers you need to book your own accommodation. Again, it is possible within the 72 hours to visit Moscow as well. You can find out more about visa-free tours to Moscow and St. Petersburg here .

Nationalities which can travel to Russia without visas are divided into four groups with different requirements and different limitations on length of stay for each group. Even if you do not need a visa to enter Russia, you will certainly need a passport valid for at least six months after the date of your proposed exit from Russia, and you may require other official documents. You will also, like all foreign travelers in Russia, still need to register with the Federal Migration Service upon arrival.

Citizens of the countries of the CIS (the Commonwealth of Independent States) are permitted to stay in the Russian Federation for up to 90 days without a visa.

Citizens of these countries are allowed to stay in the Russian Federation without a visa for up to 90 days in each 180-day period, provided they will not be involved in any commercial or work-related activities during their stay.

Citizens of the countries in this group can stay in the Russian Federation for up to 30 days without a visa. They are not entitled to work while in Russia.

Citizens of these Balkan countries can also stay in Russia without a visa for up to 30 days, but must also show tourist documents (tourist confirmation and tourist voucher) or an official invitation to immigration officials.