Things to do in Taichung City | Top Night Markets, Attractions & Local Food

With a dazzling array of things to do in Taichung, travelers can get the best of Taiwan without the crowds of Taipei. Located on the west central coast, Taichung offers plenty of seaside attractions, shopping at local markets, and most importantly, incredible nature hikes for which Taiwan is famous. In addition to excellent sightseeing and shopping, sampling food in Taichung also should be on every travelers’ itineraries. Taichung is a perfect family holiday destination, but it also suits solo backpackers looking for cheap attractions and luxury travelers wanting to relax by the ocean.

How to get around Taichung

Taichung public transportation is a convenient and efficient way to navigate your time in the city. The well-developed transportation options are also comfortable for tourists to use, with many offering signage and announcements in both Chinese and English. The extensive bus network has a number of routes that cover major attractions, shopping districts, and residential areas. For a seamless, cashless experience, pickup Taichung’s EasyCard or the iPass. These rechargeable smart cards can be used on the buses and are extremely convenient!

The Taichung Metro has recently been introduced to the city, connecting key areas of Taichung, including the high-speed railway station. If you are arriving or departing Taichung by train, the Metro provides a quick and easy way to access the main city. In fact, Taiwan’s High-Speed Rail offers access to other major cities for a quick adventure, such as Taipei and Kaohsiung. Taichung public transportation is an easy and affordable way to explore the city’s many attractions, and to expand your itinerary to in-country.

Wufeng Lin Family Garden

Don’t let the name fool you when planning a visit to Wufeng Lin Family Garden. This historical complex consists of a beautiful garden, yes, but it also contains the mansions and former residences of the Wufeng Lin Family, one of five former influential families in Taiwan. Guests are invited to explore the grounds on their own or take an audio tour (available in English) through three sections, which include the Lower Mansion, Upper Mansion and Lai Garden.

Wufeng Lin Family Garden is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The grounds, located on the southern outskirts of Taichung City in the Wufeng District, are closed on Monday. Admission price to the complex is 250 NTD.

National Museum of Natural Science

Plan to spend at least a half a day at this whopper of a museum that is one of the most visited in all of Taiwan. Exhibits and displays at National Museum of Natural Science stretch across nine hectares and encompass five complexes, including the Space IMAX Theater, Science Center, Life Science Hall, Human Cultures Hall and Global Environment Hall. And visitors should not pass up a stroll through the on-site botanical garden! While exploring hundreds of exhibits that range from dinosaurs to tropical foliage, don’t forget that National Museum of Natural Science is a learning center as well. More than 500,000 students visit the museum annually, so you’re likely to have some stiff competition for all the hands-on exhibits!

National Museum of Natural Science is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission to the Science Center is free, but other exhibits require separate tickets of variable prices.

Gaomei Wetlands

For a seaside adventure that includes birdwatching, a lighthouse and some of the richest scenery in Taiwan, head to Gaomei Wetlands. This conservation area is located on the coastline of Taichung City, just south of the Daija River estuary. Gaomei Wetlands is a heavenly spot for photographers, and tourists will want to be sure and stop by Gaomei Lighthouse for a picture-perfect sunrise.

Gaomei Wetlands stay open 24 hours a day; Gaomei Lighthouse is always on view, but if you arrive on a weekend, you’ll likely find Taiwanese street food vendors nearby as well!

Try Taiwanese delights & shop till you drop at Feng Chia Night Market

Who doesn’t go to Taiwan and eat street food and drink bubble tea? No one. That’s who. And the Feng Chia Night Market is one of the top places in Taichung City to find both. Feng Chia Night Market is not only one of the best markets in Taichung to find local food, but it also is a shopping paradise. The eye-popping neighborhood of restaurants and boutiques stretches down Wenhua Road, parallel to Fuxing Road, and features everything from street food and bubble tea shops to boutiques and shoe stores.

Located across the street from Feng Chia University in Xitun District, Feng Chia Night Market is open from 4:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. daily.

Foods to try at Feng Chia Night Market (recommended by tourists just like you!)

Begin your foodie adventure at the Taichung night market with the iconic giant chicken cutlet, a crispy, golden delight that is often larger than your face! These cutlets are seasoned to perfection, each bite offering a satisfying crunch. Next, journey to the sea with a savory oyster omelet and a plate of octopus meatballs – both Taiwanese classics. Crisp on the outside, gooey and tangy on the inside, these dishes are a must-try. Be sure not to miss out on the Taiwanese twist on the classic hot dog – sausage and sticky rice! If you’re getting full and looking for a treat, grab a freshly made crepe, filled with whichever toppings your heart desires, savory or sweet. End your exploration with a refreshing cup of bubble tea, and while it is likely not your first of the trip, you can’t have too many of this beloved beverage.

More popular night markets & shopping areas in Taichung City

• Jingming 1st Street, West District (Jingming Yi Jie Shopping District) – this vibrant shopping district offers a classic Taichung blend of modernity and historical charm, making it a must-visit, even if you only plan to window shop. On this pedestrian-friendly street, you’ll find a variety of boutique shops, trendy cafes, and delicious restaurants, providing the perfect location for an evening stroll or a daytime meander. The lively atmosphere is enjoyed by fashion lovers and foodies, with independent local brands and gourmet treats that can’t be found anywhere else. Hang out for a bit and soak in the bustling atmosphere, including street performances and cultural events.
• Yizhong Street Night Market – found near the National Taichung University of Education, this market offers a youthful vibe full of activity. From street food to upscale fashion and designer labels, this market caters to the city’s energetic and fashionable student population. Seek out some quirky souvenirs and score some bargains, both signs of a successful night of shopping in Taichung! It stays hopping from 11 a.m. to 10:10 p.m. every day except Sunday, when it’s open ‘til midnight.
• Fengyuan First Market – this smaller market is in the heart of Taichung’s Fengyuan District, offering a less-crowded shopping experience. Get a glimpse of Taichung daily life and Taiwanese culinary traditions through the rich variety of fresh produce, traditional snacks, and authentic dishes, including the famous Fengyuan sun cakes. Discover local products and handmade goods, ensuring that your souvenir shopping is supporting the locals of Taichung.
• Zhongxiao Road Night Market – located in Taichung’s South District, this hidden gem is a more intimate experience compared to its counterparts above. A local favorite for shopping in Taichung, the Zhongxiao Road Night Market can be accessed easily from Taichung Station. Indulge in grilled skewers, beef noodles, or sweet treats like mochi. The layout is easy to explore, ensuring a leisurely and enjoyable evening of shopping – and eating! Check out the affordable clothing and fun accessories, making this a well-rounded shopping adventure for all. The market is open from 2 to 11:30 p.m. every day.

HouFeng Bikeway

Nature lovers and adventurists shouldn’t pass up an opportunity to pedal down HouFeng Bikeway. The road is only 2.8 miles long, but it’s blocked off exclusively for bikers, and it features some awesome scenery along a closed-off track of the city’s old railway. A couple highlights of the ride is passing over Dajiaxi Bridge, a landmark steel railway bridge, and through a historic railway tunnel. Bikers can bring their own bikes or rent one at the HouFeng Bikeway entrance.

Address: Section 3, Guofeng Road, Fengyuan District
HouFeng Bikeway is open 24 hours a day, and admission is free.

Taichung Cultural Sites