An Insider’s Guide to Hsinchu: Hakka Culture, Atayal Tribes, and Beyond
Hsinchu, with its cultural, historic, and natural attractions, is ideal for those seeking a slower pace of travel compared to Taipei. For families, the city also boasts one of Taiwan’s largest theme parks.
Downtown Hsinchu features historic Hakka architecture, a low-key night market filled with delicious and affordable food, and several attractions centered around the local glass industry.
The rural countryside is also rich in Hakka culture, including the century-old Lo Museum residence—which welcomes visitors for overnight stays—and the charming village of Beipu, which is teeming with Hakka restaurants and historic buildings.
Higher up in the mountains, indigenous Atayal villages are the gateways to natural wonders like waterfalls and ancient high mountain tree groves. Even further within Hsinchu County, the iconic Dabajian Mountain presents one of Taiwan’s most accessible mountaineering routes.
Spring Pool Glass Studio
Spring Pool Glass Studio is a boutique and workshop operated by the Spring Pool Glass Industrial Corporation, Taiwan’s premier glass recycling company.
The space is designed to bridge the gap between the glass industry and daily life. It hosts exhibitions, DIY workshops, and provides a platform for the exchange of ideas. On the ground floor, glassblowers showcase the intricate art of mouth-blown glass crafting. Visitors can also enroll in a DIY session, to experience the thrill of using professional tools, and craft their own mouth-blown glass cup.
Situated above the workshop, the second floor is a select shop that exclusively features products crafted from 100% recycled glass. Here, you can explore a range of designs, spanning from food and drink vessels to unique utensils and more.
The third floor houses a sunlit coffee shop that also serves as an exhibition space. Patrons can indulge in tea and coffee served in designer tableware, all made from recycled glass.
If you have an appreciation for glasswork or recycling, Glass Pool is undoubtedly worth a visit.
Hsinchu City Glass Museum
Occupying a building originally constructed by the Japanese in 1936, the Glass Museum of Hsinchu celebrates the city’s rich glass industry heritage. It is conveniently located adjacent to the Spring Pool Glass Studio.
Inside, visitors are treated to a myriad of glass art displays, ranging from delicately blown flowers and intricate stained glass pieces to detailed bowls, vases, and lifelike insects. The highlight of the museum is the glass blowing workshop, where visitors have the opportunity to craft their own unique glass artworks.
New Tile House Hakka Cultural District
New Tile House Cultural District, located in downtown Hsinchu, is a proud remnant of Hakka culture and architecture that has been saved from redevelopment and turned into an educational and cultural attraction.
Built by the prominent Lin family in 1805—the same family responsible for the Lin Family Mansion and Garden—the buildings of the New Tile House Hakka Cultural District faced near destruction in 1990. Fortunately, they were preserved by local activists with the foresight to recognize the importance of safeguarding this architectural gem. The entire complex, once an exclusive domain of the Lin Family, is encircled by walls, which historically served to isolate the community from the outside world.
At the core of the complex is the Zhongxiao Hall, a tribute to the Lin Family that continues to function as a shrine. Surrounding structures in the district have been thoughtfully refurbished and now accommodate chic coffee shops and creative boutiques. A standout is the acclaimed OR Bookstore / OR Veggie—a combined bookstore and cafe that has become a cultural epicenter, further enlivened by craft markets on weekends.
Chenghuang Temple Night Market
The Cheng Huang Temple Night Market, also known as the Hsinchu City God Temple Night Market, stands as Hsinchu’s largest market and is particularly notable for its scrumptious and affordably priced dishes. The Hsinchu City God Temple, around which the market is centered, is a revered sanctuary dedicated to the City God—a deity esteemed in Chinese folklore for their protective oversight of the local populace.
For culinary aficionados, this night market unveils a plethora of iconic Hsinchu treats. Relish local specialties such as succulent braised pork rice and exquisite fish ball soup. Additional must-try offerings encompass rice vermicelli, spring rolls, and the ever-popular oyster omelet.
Leofoo Village Theme Park
The Leofoo Village Theme Park combines amusement park rides with a wildlife safari area to offer a unique experience that has made it one of Taiwan’s most famous theme parks. It boasts three roller coasters and houses some of Taiwan’s grandest theme park attractions.
The park is divided into four themed areas: Wild West, South Pacific, Arabian Kingdom, and African Safari. Each zone promises a medley of exhilarating rides. Noteworthy attractions include Taiwan’s largest man-made river: the Big Canyon Rapids Ride; its largest pirate ship ride: The Great Pirate; and a zoological garden that shelters over 70 species of animals, such as American black bears, Bengal tigers, and African lions.
The newly minted Greek-inspired water park caters especially to Taiwan’s balmy summers, offering a thrilling slide zone, a vast wave pool, and architectural recreations of Greek isles. Additionally, the village regularly stages musical water spectacles, parades, and dance recitals.
Lo Museum
The Lo Museum, a sanheyuan-style residence that dates back a century, has been meticulously refurbished to offer guests an immersive experience of staying in a historic Hakka farmhouse and savoring the essence of slow farm living.
The Lo Museum’s premises are adorned with ornaments worthy of being displayed in temples, including incense burners, clay reliefs, and Cochin ware, also referred to as Koji pottery. While its interiors have been upgraded with basic conveniences such as hot water, air conditioning, hair dryers, and comfortable bedding options (including tatami and floor beds), the house retains its quintessential rustic charm. Emphasizing eco-friendliness, guests are encouraged to bring their own toiletries. Bicycles are available for visitors wishing to explore the picturesque countryside.
Further enriching the experience, the residence organizes events celebrating Hakka culture, ranging from musical soirées and enlightening lectures to DIY food workshops and hands-on farming. Customized experiences can also be arranged by reaching out to the owner in advance. For more details visit the Lo Museum Facebook page .
Note: The Lo Museum was immortalized in film when it was included in Chi Po-lin’s famous environmental documentary “Beyond Beauty: Taiwan from Above”. Learn more about Chi Po-lin’s legacy by visiting the Chi Po-Lin Museum in Danshui, New Taipei.
Beipu Old Street
Beipu Old Street stands out due to its serene mountainous backdrop and its genuine representation of Hakka culture. Nestled along Provincial Highway 3, straddling the boundaries of Miaoli and Hsinchu, Beipu’s historic precinct is a favorite among domestic travelers. Unlike some northern districts, it hasn’t been revamped to cater to international tourists.
A leisurely walk through Beipu’s spacious streets unveils a myriad of Hakka cafes and eateries, impeccably conserved architecture, and striking temples. A prominent Hakka tradition here is the tea drink known as “lei cha.” This is a distinctive tea concoction made from finely ground tea leaves blended with an assortment of ingredients, including grains and seeds, and further enriched with sweet ingredients like red dates or yams for a nuanced flavor profile. Many local cafes take pride in offering their signature variations of this tea and even conduct DIY sessions, allowing visitors to grind and concoct their own personalized lei cha Hakka tea blend.
Chiang A-Hsin Mansion
The Chiang A-Hsin Mansion, alternatively known as the Jiang A-Sin Ancient House, stands as a county-designated historical landmark nestled in the heart of Beipu. The mansion’s inception can be credited to Chiang A-Hsin, who amassed wealth from trading in black tea—a commodity highly sought-after for export during that era. In recognition of its distinctive architectural nuances and its pivotal role in shaping Beipu’s tea industry, the mansion was granted county monument status in 2001.
Constructed in 1946, the mansion showcases the epitome of craftsmanship, employing premium materials such as cypress, camphor, beech, cedar, and other exquisite woods. Additionally, mosaic tiles accentuate certain floor sections. What sets the interior apart is its Western-inspired design, which features a fireplace, intricate calligraphy, ceilings adorned with hand-carved plaster reliefs, and an abundance of wooden dividers and screens that enhance natural illumination and airflow.
Having been recently restored in 2018, the mansion remains in pristine condition. Due to structural concerns, visitors are advised to adhere to specific guidelines during their exploration, and certain areas are off-limits, but the overall experience is invaluable for those drawn to Beipu’s rich cultural tapestry.
Insider’s Tip: The Mansion is best experienced on a private tour, which includes a detailed explanation of the significance and history of the mansion’s furnishing. Tours must be scheduled in advance by contacting reception.
Make Your Own Hakka Tea “Lei Cha” (DIY)
Hakka “lei cha”, colloquially termed “pounded tea”, is a fragrant, invigorating, and nutritious concoction made by grounding tea and augmenting it with a medley of crushed beans, grains, and seeds. Its flavor and texture can vary, intricately shaped by the preferences of the preparer. This tea-centric delicacy, birthed from the Hakka ethnic community in southern China, has carved a niche for itself in various Asian locales, hailed for its health virtues and deep-rooted cultural relevance.
In Hsinchu, a plethora of shops and Hakka eateries offer the delightful experience of crafting your very own “lei cha”, with Beipu Old Street being a prominent hub.
No matter your choice of venue, the typical experience unfolds in a similar pattern: you begin by deciding upon the flavor direction and ingredients—which can span from mung beans and sesame to Chinese dates, yams and more. Subsequently, these selected ingredients are combined and crushed to a powdery consistency using a mortar and pestle. While this phase demands a tad bit of elbow grease, it doubles as a light physical exercise. And the culmination? The sheer joy of savoring your handcrafted lei cha!
Remember, the charm of Lei Cha lies in creating your own unique flavor. You’re encouraged to fine-tune the tea’s intensity and cherry-pick ingredients, ensuring that your bowl is a personal masterpiece.
Emei Lake and its Tung Blossoms *Seasonal*
Emei Lake, also known as the Dapu Reservoir, is a scenic recreational area located a stone’s throw from Beipu Old Street. Framed by an array of restaurants, cafes, and trails, this reservoir also serves as a favored spot for paddling enthusiasts, welcoming both stand-up paddleboarders and kayakers. Dominating the lake’s central vista is the “Nature Loving Wonderland,” a sprawling Buddhist complex that proudly houses the world’s largest standing statue of Milefo, commonly recognized as the “laughing Buddha”. To fully appreciate the lake’s picturesque charm, one can embark on a 3.5-kilometer trail that encircles it.
Annually, between April and May, Emei Lake becomes one of the primary venues for the Hakka Tung Blossom Festival. Encircled by tung trees, the lake undergoes a breathtaking transformation as these trees burst into a riot of white blossoms. As these flowers gradually cascade down, they blanket the pathways through the tung woods, crafting a spectacle that locals fondly dub “April Snow”.
Insider’s Tip: To experience Emei Lake at its most beautiful, plan your trip to coincide with the Hakka Tung Blossom Festival, which typically reaches its peak in late April and May.
Frog Rock Waterfall
The majestic 40-meter Frog Rock Waterfall is one of the first sights on the way into the verdant mountains of Jianshi Township, an area renowned for its breathtaking vistas, outdoor recreational activities, and the presence of Atayal indigenous tribes.
The waterfall derives its unique name, “Frog Rock”, from a distinctive rock formation near the falls that resembles a frog. According to local Atayal legend, the rock is said to be a petrified frog that starved after following mosquitos deep into the river and getting trapped.
Beside the waterfall is a network of elevated walkways, meandering through the lush forest and culminating at a glass-bottomed viewing platform. Spanning a mere 500 meters and graced with a wooden boardwalk, the trail is suitable for a broad spectrum of visitors, including families and nature aficionados.
Convenient parking is available in a nearby lot, which also hosts a quaint market managed by Atayal tribal members. The market is a treasure trove of indigenous delicacies and souvenirs, offering visitors a chance to delve into the rich culture and traditions of the Atayal people. For ease of access, a shuttle service operates between the trail network and the parking area.
Smangus
Smangus, officially known as the Smangus Tribe or Wufeng Tribe, is a remote and culturally rich indigenous village nestled deep within the pristine mountains of Jianshi County. It’s often referred to as one of the most secluded indigenous communities on the island and requires over three hours to reach by vehicle.
Its remote location, however, is both a blessing and a charm. Smangus’s surroundings open the door to the untouched splendors of nature, from ancient arboreal sanctuaries to vast expanses that beckon stargazers. The village is a living canvas of the Atayal culture, pulsating with authenticity and exuding a warmth that makes every visitor feel like an honored guest.
For those wishing to dive deeper into the rhythms and rituals of Smangus life, the village’s homestays offer an unparalleled opportunity. Residing with the locals provides a firsthand glimpse into the fabric of their existence, allowing guests to not only observe but also partake in their cultural tapestry.
Pioneering the ideals of eco-tourism and sustainability, Smangus is more than just a destination—it’s a heart-warming experiment. Travel to Smangus to discover the village’s forward-thinking conservation strategies and eco-conscious endeavors, and witness a community that truly epitomizes living in sync with nature.
Dabajian Mountain and Xiaobian Mountain
Dabajian Mountain, also known as Mount Sylvania, rises majestically within the wild expanses of Shei-Pa National Park. Reaching a height of 3,492 m (11,457 ft), this mountain is listed as the 28th among the famed 100 Peaks of Taiwan. Its prominent stature can also be admired on the reverse side of Taiwan’s 500 NT bill. The mountain is recognized as a sacred site by the Atayal and Saisiyat indigenous tribes.
While the mountain’s sheer cliff faces might appear intimidating, it offers one of the more accessible hikes among the 100 Peaks of Taiwan. This has made Dabajian Mountain a popular choice, especially for novice hikers. However, since 2010, trekkers have been prohibited from scaling the iconic pyramid-shaped peak due to its esteemed sacred status.
Embarking on the journey to Dabajian Mountain involves a substantial 62 km (38.5 mile) hike, typically spanning three days. The trek is peppered with captivating natural spectacles such as cascading waterfalls, perennial wildflowers, and breathtaking ridgeline panoramas showcasing many other renowned peaks.
A significant factor that renders the trail comparatively straightforward is its gentle incline. The hike commences approximately 2000 meters above sea level, and the initial 17 kilometers unfurls as a mellow stroll along the Dalu Forest Road.