Things To Do
in Citong

Citong is a picturesque town located in the Chiayi County of Taiwan, known for its charming rural landscapes and vibrant local culture. The area is famous for its tea plantations and is often regarded as a serene getaway from the bustling cities. Citong boasts a rich history reflected in its traditional architecture, making it a hidden gem for those looking to explore authentic Taiwanese life.

Visitors can enjoy beautiful natural scenery, including lush mountains and tranquil rivers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Citong Tea Plantation, where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample various brews.

afternoon
:

Head to the Citong Old Street for lunch at a local eatery and explore the quaint shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely stroll along the riverside to soak in the evening tranquility.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Embark on a guided hike in the nearby mountains, taking in the stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Jinshan Temple, an important cultural landmark, and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local night market where you can sample street food and shop for local handicrafts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Meal at Local Restaurant$5
Cup of Tea$2
🍧Dessert at Night Market$3
🚍Bus Ticket$0.75
🏨Hotel Stay (per night)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery
  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • Language barrier in rural areas
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "謝謝" - Thank you
  • "請問廁所在哪裡?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不會說中文" - I don't speak Chinese.
  • "好吃!" - Delicious!

Places to Visit in Citong

Visit one of these nice places.

Citong Tea Plantation

The lush green tea fields create stunning landscapes, perfect for capturing the essence of Taiwanese agriculture.

Jinshan Temple

This historic temple features intricate architecture and vibrant decorations, ideal for cultural photography.

Riverside Park

A tranquil area with beautiful sunset views, offering picturesque backdrops for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Citong

Citong offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Taiwanese dishes that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.

Citong Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Oyster Omelette

A popular dish made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a tangy sauce, often served in local eateries.

Must-Try!

Braised Pork Rice

Savory braised pork served over rice, a staple in Taiwanese cuisine.

Tea Egg

Hard-boiled eggs steeped in a blend of soy sauce and tea, commonly found at street stalls.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Citong Night Market

A lively market that comes alive in the evening, offering a variety of street food options and local snacks.

Local Farmer's Market

A weekly market where you can find fresh produce, homemade goods, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Citong experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is common, particularly during the monsoon season from May to October, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders by giving way and using polite language.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home.

Offering Food and Drink

When offering food or drink, it's polite to present it with both hands.

Safety Guide

Safety

Citong is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services are accessible, and local authorities are helpful to tourists.

Tipping in Citong

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments and credit cards are increasingly popular in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, but it's also the season for local festivals and vibrant night markets.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter is mild, with occasional rain; it's a great time to enjoy warm tea and indoor cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Citong at Night

Citong's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with local bars and night markets offering a more relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can explore small pubs that serve local beer and spirits, while night markets provide a vibrant social scene with food stalls and games. The focus is on enjoying local cuisine and mingling with residents rather than loud nightclubs.

Hiking in Citong

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mingyue Mountain Trail

A scenic trail offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, suitable for moderate hikers.

Alishan Forest Trail

A famous hiking destination located nearby, known for its ancient trees and breathtaking sunrise views.

Airports

How to reach Citong by plane.

Chiayi Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Citong, Chiayi Airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Citong is relatively walkable, with many attractions located within close proximity to each other. The town center features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some outdoor attractions may require transportation, particularly those located in the surrounding mountains.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hakka People

The Hakka community is prominent in the region, known for their unique cultural traditions and cuisine.

Indigenous Groups

Taiwan is home to several indigenous groups, each with distinct languages and cultural practices, contributing to the diversity of Citong.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Taiwan, with local teams and schools often participating in leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played, with many courts available for public use in parks and schools.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Citong is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or scooter. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns, though schedules may vary. Cycling is also a popular option for exploring the rural landscape.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Citong.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to communicate your dietary needs in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Citong is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals offering a range of medical services. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers overseas medical expenses. In case of emergencies, larger hospitals are available in nearby cities.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2025 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide