Things To Do
in Budai
Budai is a quiet fishing town on Taiwan's southwestern coast in Chiayi County. It offers harbor views, fresh seafood, and a relaxed, small-town atmosphere ideal for coastal wanderers. The town centers around the Budai Fishing Harbor and the Mazu temple, with sunsets painting the sea in warm hues.
Visitors can stroll the harborfront, sample seafood, and experience authentic Taiwan hospitality in a serene setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the historic temples and traditional markets in Budai. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you stroll through the narrow streets and admire the intricate architecture. Make sure to stop by a local café for a traditional Taiwanese breakfast of soy milk and fried dough sticks.
After lunch, head to the Budai Fishing Port to witness the daily hustle and bustle of fishermen unloading their fresh catch. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, where you can enjoy stunning views of the sea and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Don't forget to visit the nearby seafood restaurants to sample the freshest seafood dishes.
As the sun sets, explore the lively night market in Budai, filled with stalls selling street food and local delicacies. Indulge in delicious treats like oyster omelets and bubble tea while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Spend some time shopping for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts to take home.
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Guanyin Temple, where you can observe locals engaging in morning rituals and prayers. The serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture will provide a tranquil start to your day. Take your time to explore the intricate carvings and offerings that adorn the temple.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby eatery, head to the nearby Chenghuang Temple, known for its vibrant festivals and cultural significance. Engage with the local community as you learn about the temple's history and participate in any ongoing activities. Capture stunning photographs of the colorful decorations and lively scenes.
In the evening, attend a traditional Taiwanese opera performance at a local theater. Experience the unique blend of music, drama, and elaborate costumes that define this art form. After the show, enjoy a quiet dinner at a nearby restaurant, reflecting on the day's cultural experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🚌Local transit / bus fare | $0.5-2 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🧁Street snack or dessert | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh, high-quality seafood and coastal scenery
- Relaxed pace and authentic local culture
- Compact town that’s easy to explore on foot or by bike
- Close to Chiayi attractions and other coastal towns
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Smaller range of services compared to bigger cities
- Humidity and typhoon season can affect outdoor plans
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問最近的廁所在哪裡？" - Where is the nearest bathroom?
- "你會說英文嗎？" - Do you speak English?
- "多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡嗎？" - Can I pay by card?
- "請給我一份海鮮" - I would like the seafood dish, please
- "不好意思，我有素食需求" - Excuse me, I have vegetarian dietary needs
- "請慢用" - Please enjoy your meal
- "再見" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Budai
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light on fishing boats and mist over calm waters create serene, low-contrast coastal scenes.
Detailed temple architecture, lanterns, and locals in prayer provide vibrant cultural photographs.
Colorful storefronts, traditional signage, and bustling market scenes perfect for candid shots.
Wide sea views with silhouettes of palm trees and boats; ideal for dramatic sky photography.
A quiet vantage point for maritime views and evening silhouettes against the horizon.
Food in Budai
Budai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A warming mix of local shellfish and fish simmered in a light broth, often served with rice or noodles.
Must-Try!
Whole fish baked in a salt crust, resulting in tender meat and delicate ocean flavors.
A classic Taiwanese street dish featuring fresh oysters, egg, starch, and chives, typically smoky from a hot grill.
Charred squid rings tossed with garlic, chili, and a splash of lime or soy sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls offering fresh catches, dried seafood, and quick coastal snacks to eat on the go.
Casual stalls along the waterfront selling bite-sized seafood bites, skewers, and local desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove hats when entering temples, and speak softly; avoid touching sacred objects without permission.
A polite greeting or small bow is common; use two hands when presenting or receiving items of value.
Respect personal space in markets; avoid loud conversations in quiet residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Budai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Taiwan dining and service scenarios; rounding up or small tips at tourist-facing venues is appreciated but not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also take credit cards. Digital wallets and EasyCard are common for transit and some shops; carry some cash for street vendors and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon showers and a higher chance of typhoon activity. Pack light clothing, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Milder temperatures and generally clearer skies; a comfortable time for hiking and coastal walks with less humidity.
Cool to mild temperatures; rare heavy cold spells. Layers are useful, especially near the coast where it can feel windier.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora in surrounding hills; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Budai at Night
Hiking in Budai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An easy to moderate hike with ocean views and fresh sea air, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Short trails offering viewpoints over the coast and surrounding farmland.
Airports
How to reach Budai by plane.
Nearest regional airport with domestic and some international connections; typically the easiest to reach Budai by road.
Major international gateway in southern Taiwan; longer drive to Budai but provides the broadest flight options.
National hub with extensive international and domestic connections; often used for flying into Taiwan and then transferring to a domestic flight or train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core part of Budai’s identity; communities that keep coastal and rural economies active.
People who run harbor shops, eateries, and guesthouses; a generally welcoming, family-friendly community.
Individuals who supplement local labor in hospitality and agriculture, reflecting Taiwan’s broader labor dynamics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A very popular sport across Taiwan; many local facilities and public parks support casual play.
Widely played in parks and schools; occasional local leagues and pick-up games occur in towns like Budai.
A traditional activity for residents along the coast; many locals fish along harbors and beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Budai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most seafood-focused spots can accommodate vegetarians with local veggie dishes or rice- and noodle-based options; ask for vegetable stir-fries or tofu dishes when ordering.