Looking for a refreshing escape from Taiwan’s bustling cities? Miaoli County offers a unique blend of rural landscapes and authentic cultural experiences, making it a hidden gem for travelers.
This charming destination is perfect for those seeking a relaxed pace of life. You can visit spiritual mountain temples, enjoy strawberry farms, and unwind at hot springs. The region’s Hakka cultural influences shape its food, architecture, and traditions, providing a distinct experience.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, Miaoli County has plenty to offer. Discover the top attractions and places to visit in this enchanting area, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
Discovering Miaoli County’s Rural Charm
As you journey through Miaoli County, you’ll discover the essence of rural Taiwan, where traditional practices and natural beauty converge. This county is a haven for those seeking an authentic experience, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Where is Miaoli County Located?
Miaoli County is situated in the central part of Taiwan, bordering the Taiwan Strait to the west, Hsinchu County to the north, Taichung to the south, and Nantou County to the southeast. Its strategic location makes it an easily accessible destination for travelers exploring Taiwan. With a mix of coastal and mountainous regions, Miaoli County offers diverse landscapes and experiences.
The county is home to a significant Hakka population, making it an ideal place to experience Hakka culture, alongside other locations like Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Kaohsiung. Visitors can explore the county’s many attractions, which are somewhat spread out, making it a good idea to plan visits around specific places of interest.
Why Visit This Hidden Gem in Taiwan
Miaoli County is a treasure trove of experiences, offering visitors a chance to engage with rural Taiwanese life. The county’s rural regions are dotted with minsu (local guesthouses), where locals relax and unwind. Two of its townships, Nanzhuang and Sanyi, have been recognized by Cittaslow International as ideal destinations for slow travel.
The county boasts a range of activities and attractions that cater to different interests. From strawberry picking in Dahu to hiking temple-studded trails and soaking in mountain hot springs, there’s something for everyone. The abundance of family-run guesthouses and farm stays enhances the authentic rural experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature and local traditions.
| Experience | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Strawberry Picking | Dahu | Fresh strawberries, farm stays |
| Hiking & Temple Trails | Various locations | Cultural heritage, natural beauty |
| Hot Springs | Tai’an | Relaxation, mountain scenery |
Lion’s Head Mountain: A Spiritual Hiking Adventure
As you venture into the heart of Taiwan, Lion’s Head Mountain awaits with its serene landscapes and spiritual aura. This hidden gem offers a unique blend of hiking trails and sacred temples, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil escape.
Temple Hopping on the Mountain
The mountain is home to several sacred temples, each with its own unique history and significance. You can explore these temples, immersing yourself in the local culture and spirituality. One of the most notable temples is Quanhua Temple ( ), the largest temple on the Miaoli side.
Quanhua Temple offers a serene atmosphere, and its kitchen provides delicious vegetarian meals by donation, available three times a day. This allows you to experience the local Buddhist cuisine and connect with the spiritual community.
Staying Overnight at Quanhua Temple
For a truly immersive experience, you can stay overnight at Quanhua Temple. The temple offers simple yet comfortable double rooms with private balconies, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The cost is just NT$1000 per night, making it an affordable and unique accommodation option.
By staying overnight, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the mountain during its quietest hours, when most day visitors have left. You’ll wake up to the sound of morning prayers and watch the mist rise from the valleys below, creating a profoundly peaceful start to your day.
Reservations for the temple accommodation are typically not difficult to secure, as the temple has several rooms available. However, it’s still recommended to book in advance, especially if you’re traveling with a group.
Nanzhuang Old Street: Sweet Osmanthus Lane
As you step into Nanzhuang Old Street, you’re immediately enveloped in the traditional Hakka way of life. This charming destination offers a nostalgic journey into Hakka culture, with its well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Nanzhuang Old Street 南庄老街 is characterized by its red-brick buildings and traditional wooden architecture, giving visitors a glimpse into the past. The area is steeped in history, having been originally inhabited by the Atayal and Saisiyat indigenous peoples before the arrival of Hakka settlers.
Must-Try Hakka Delicacies
Nanzhuang is renowned for its delicious Hakka cuisine. Be sure to try ban tiao (wide rice noodles or ) at one of the many local restaurants around the Old Street and near Yongchang Temple. With over 145 restaurants, shops, and food stalls in the area, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to sample the local flavors.
Cultural Experiences Around Nanzhuang
Beyond its culinary delights, Nanzhuang offers a range of cultural experiences that showcase the area’s rich heritage. Take a stroll along the historic stone canal at the entrance to Sweet Osmanthus Lane, where locals once gathered to do laundry. The nearby suspension bridge not only offers a great photo opportunity but also connects you to walking paths that lead to other cultural sites in the area. Visit Yongchang Temple to observe local religious practices and admire the traditional architecture. The Nanzhuang Visitor’s Center provides helpful maps that highlight the area’s cultural points of interest, making it easy to plan your visit.
Dahu: Taiwan’s Strawberry Paradise
Strawberry enthusiasts, rejoice! Dahu is Taiwan’s strawberry paradise, where you can indulge in picking your own strawberries and savoring strawberry-infused delights.
Best Strawberry Farms for DIY Picking
Dahu is dotted with numerous strawberry farms that offer DIY picking experiences. These farms are not just about picking strawberries; they’re an immersive experience where you can enjoy the scenic countryside and get your hands dirty.
Some of the top farms in the area welcome visitors to pick their own strawberries, providing a fun and interactive way to enjoy the fruit. Be sure to check the picking seasons and plan your visit accordingly.
Dahu Wineland Resort and Strawberry Specialties
After a day of strawberry picking, head over to the Dahu Wineland Resort, a unique place that celebrates strawberry culture in all its forms. This resort is part museum, part theme park, and part winery, offering an array of strawberry-flavored products that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From strawberry ice cream and cakes to more adventurous strawberry sausages and noodles, the resort’s culinary offerings are a must-try. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample their award-winning strawberry wines and beers, perfect for bringing a taste of Dahu back home.
Tai’an Hot Springs: Relaxation Amidst Mountains
Tai’an Hot Springs offers a tranquil retreat amidst the natural beauty of Miaoli County. You can unwind and rejuvenate in the serene surroundings, making it an ideal destination for relaxation.
The Tai’an Hot Springs area is historically significant as it was first discovered by the Atayal indigenous people. The hot springs are known for their colorless and odorless alkaline carbonate springs, which have great health benefits. Many of the hot spring facilities and hotels are located along the Wenshui River and are surrounded by lush nature, providing a peaceful ambiance.
Top Hot Spring Resorts and Hotels
When visiting Tai’an Hot Springs, you can choose from a variety of top-notch hot spring resorts and hotels. These establishments offer luxurious amenities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the top recommendations include hotels that are situated along the river, providing a serene atmosphere and easy access to the hot springs.
Atayal Indigenous Culture Experience
A visit to Tai’an Hot Springs is not complete without experiencing the rich culture of the Atayal indigenous people. You can visit the Atayal Indigenous Cultural Park to gain insights into traditional Atayal customs, crafts, and their deep spiritual connection to the natural environment. The park features demonstrations of traditional weaving techniques, exhibits of their distinctive facial tattoos, and cultural performances showcasing traditional music and dance.
You can also learn about the Atayal people’s sustainable hunting and gathering practices that allowed them to thrive in harmony with the mountainous environment for centuries. The Japanese later developed the hot springs during their colonial period, adding another layer to the area’s rich cultural history.
Flying Cow Ranch: Family Fun on the Farm
Experience the joy of farm life at Flying Cow Ranch, where interactive activities and delicious farm-fresh meals await. Located in Miaoli County, this ranch is an ideal destination for families seeking a fun and educational experience.
Interactive Farm Activities
The ranch offers a variety of interactive activities that are perfect for children. You can enjoy DIY workshops such as painting cow figurines, making ice cream, or egg pancakes. The ecological zones, featuring grasslands, butterfly gardens, and water plants, are connected by scenic walking paths, providing a serene environment for a leisurely stroll.
Children will have a blast participating in these hands-on activities, making for a memorable visit. The ecological zones not only provide entertainment but also serve as an educational platform to learn about nature and conservation.
Accommodation and Dining Options
Flying Cow Ranch offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences. You can stay in their Field Inn for standard hotel-style rooms, opt for the more spacious Field Villa, or experience camping on their grounds. The on-site restaurants serve a variety of cuisines, with the signature Milk Hot Pot being a must-try. The broth is infused with fresh milk from the ranch’s own cows, offering a unique flavor profile.
The ranch is also home to multiple dining venues, including the Red Barn Restaurant and the Flying Cow Restaurant, catering to different tastes. Don’t forget to visit the souvenir shop to purchase some of the ranch’s famous dairy products, such as their creamy yogurt and milk.
Miaoli County, Taiwan: Best Things to Do for History Buffs
For those fascinated by history, Miaoli County presents a compelling array of experiences that bring the past to life. You can explore the remnants of historical structures and relive the region’s significant events through its well-preserved attractions.
Remains of Longteng Bridge
The Longteng Bridge, a marvel of its time, is now a poignant reminder of the region’s industrial past. Although the bridge is no longer intact, its remains offer a glimpse into the engineering feats of the era. You can witness the remnants of this historic bridge, understanding its significance in the context of Taiwan’s railway history.
As you explore the area, you’ll notice the remnants of the Longteng Bridge are not just a relic of the past but a symbol of the region’s resilience and adaptation. The bridge’s history and its current state provide a fascinating narrative of change and preservation.
Old Mountain Line Rail Bike Adventure
The Old Mountain Line Rail Bike is an innovative way to experience Miaoli’s history. This electric rail bike adventure takes you through the historic Old Mountain Railway, which operated from 1908 to 1998. You can ride in comfort on four-seat, electric rail cars, enjoying the scenic views without the need to pedal.
The Old Mountain Line Rail Bike journey is a unique experience, offering three different routes that showcase the region’s natural beauty and historical significance. You’ll ride across historic iron bridges, through tunnels, and past scenic mountain vistas, gaining a deeper appreciation for the area’s heritage. The most popular starting point is Shengxing Station, a beautifully preserved wooden Japanese-style train station that serves as a living museum of Taiwan’s railway heritage.
By taking the Mountain Line Rail Bike, you’re not only enjoying a leisurely ride but also contributing to the preservation of this important piece of infrastructure. The experience is suitable for all ages, making it an ideal activity for families or history enthusiasts.
Sanyi Township: Taiwan’s Woodcarving Capital
As you explore Miaoli County, you’ll discover Sanyi Township, a haven for woodcarving enthusiasts. Sanyi is celebrated for its exquisite wood sculptures, and a visit to this charming town is a must for anyone interested in traditional Taiwanese craftsmanship.
Wood Sculpture Museum Highlights
The Sanyi Wood Sculpture Museum is a treasure trove of wooden artistry, showcasing intricate carvings and sculptures that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. The museum’s collection includes works by local artisans, demonstrating the skill and craftsmanship that Sanyi is known for. Visitors can marvel at the detailed designs and learn about the techniques used to create these wooden masterpieces.
Exploring Shengxing Old Station
Just east of Sanyi, Shengxing Station is a historic gem that offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s railway history. This charming old wooden train station, built in 1906, is one of Taiwan’s best-preserved railway stations from the Japanese colonial period. Visitors can ride the Old Mountain Line Rail Bike, which takes you through former train tunnels and across scenic bridges, offering a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty.
The area around Shengxing Station has developed into a cultural district, with shops selling local crafts, Hakka specialties, and railway-themed souvenirs. On weekends, the station becomes particularly lively, creating a festive atmosphere that enhances the cultural experience.
Seasonal Experiences in Miaoli
From spring blossoms to winter strawberries, Miaoli County offers a diverse array of seasonal experiences that will make your trip to Taiwan truly unforgettable. The region’s unique charm is deeply connected to the changing seasons, with each time of year bringing its own special activities and events.
Tung Blossoms in Spring
As spring arrives in Miaoli County, the landscape transforms with the blooming of Tung flowers. The vibrant blossoms create a picturesque scenery that attracts visitors from all over. You can enjoy the beauty of these flowers by taking a leisurely stroll through the countryside or by visiting specific Tung blossom spots. The blossoms typically bloom in the spring season, making it an ideal time to visit.
Winter Strawberry Season
Winter transforms Miaoli’s Dahu township into Taiwan’s strawberry capital, with the picking season running from December through April. The strawberries in Dahu are renowned for being exceptionally large, juicy, and sweet, thanks to the area’s ideal growing conditions. You can experience the joy of picking your own strawberries directly from the fields, making for a fun and memorable day out. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on weekdays when the farms are less crowded. Beyond picking, you can enjoy the full range of strawberry-themed experiences at Dahu Wineland Resort.
During the peak season in January and February, the fruit is at its most abundant and flavorful. However, this also means larger crowds, especially on weekends. To make the most of your visit to Miaoli County, plan your trip accordingly and enjoy the sweet taste of fresh strawberries in the heart of Taiwan.
Planning Your Trip to Miaoli County
To make the most of your trip to Miaoli County, it’s essential to plan ahead. The county’s attractions are spread out, and public transportation between sites can be limited.
You can explore Miaoli County by renting a car or hiring a driver, with the Miaoli City HSR station being a convenient starting point. Alternatively, use public transportation, but be aware that different parts of the county are served by different train stations.
Consider planning your visit around seasonal highlights, such as strawberry picking in winter or tung blossoms in spring. You can spend a day or two exploring the county’s many places, including Lion’s Head Mountain, Nanzhuang Old Street, and Dahu.
For an authentic experience, stay overnight in one of Miaoli County‘s unique accommodations, such as a temple stay or hot spring resort. This will give you a deeper appreciation for the local culture and way of life.
