Things To Do
in Xianxi
Xianxi is a small, typically rural settlement in Miaoli County in west-central Taiwan, characterized by rice paddies, patches of fruit orchards and a strong Hakka cultural presence. The area is quietly scenic with low-rise buildings, local temples, and nearby foothills that offer modest hiking and panoramic countryside views. Life here moves at an unhurried pace, making it a good base for experiencing rural Taiwanese food, traditional markets and local festivals.
The village is within easy reach of larger towns (Miaoli, Zhunan) and transport links, so it works well for short stays focused on nature, culture and food.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Xianxi, take some time to settle into your accommodation and refresh after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh Taiwanese pastries and coffee. As the morning unfolds, enjoy a stroll through the peaceful streets, admiring the charming architecture.
Spend your afternoon visiting the Xianxi Old Street, where vibrant shops and stalls display local handicrafts. Taste the famous Xianxi taro desserts and indulge in delicious street food while interacting with friendly locals. Don’t forget to capture the essence of the place with some pictures of the traditional storefronts.
As the sun sets, head to the Xianxi Night Market for a lively atmosphere filled with enticing food stalls and vibrant cultural showcases. Sample a variety of local snacks while enjoying live performances from local artists. End your day by immersing yourself in the local nightlife, perhaps joining a game of mahjong with locals.
Begin your morning by visiting the historic Xianxi Temple, where you can admire intricate carvings and experience a serene atmosphere. Participate in a short meditation session to connect with the local spiritual culture. The temple's peaceful surroundings make it an ideal place for reflection.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the nearby Tofu Factory to learn about traditional tofu-making techniques. Engage with the artisans and even try your hand at making your own tofu. Afterward, enjoy a tofu-based lunch at a nearby restaurant, experiencing the local cuisine.
As night approaches, relax at a traditional teahouse, sampling various Taiwanese teas. Listen to soothing live music while enjoying the tranquil ambiance that these teahouses offer. This is the perfect way to unwind and reflect on your day’s experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $2.50-4 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.50-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $4-10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel / guesthouse (per night) | $30-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic rural landscapes and authentic local culture
- Strong Hakka culinary and cultural experiences
- Good base for nearby hiking, cycling and day trips to larger towns
- Lower prices and slower pace compared with cities
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist services in the immediate village
- Public transport options are sparser than in urban areas—some reliance on scooters or taxis
- Weather can be hot and typhoon-prone in summer
- Fewer international-dining options or English services in small eateries
- "你好 (nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "謝謝 (xiè xie)" - Thank you
- "請問…? (qǐngwèn…?)" - Excuse me / May I ask...?
- "廁所在哪裡? (cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
- "我吃素 (wǒ chī sù)" - I am vegetarian
- "可以刷卡嗎? (kěyǐ shuākǎ ma?)" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Xianxi
Visit one of these nice places.
Low-lying fields reflect sunrise/sunset colors and clouds, offering classic rural Taiwanese landscape shots—best in early morning or late afternoon.
Colorful temple façades, lanterns, and narrow streets provide intimate street photography opportunities and cultural detail.
Small rivers and footbridges near Xianxi offer compositions with flowing water, fishermen and surrounding greenery.
A short drive away, the Longteng Bridge ruins and nearby hills are dramatic subjects for wide-angle shots and industrial heritage photography.
Food in Xianxi
Xianxi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory herbal tea-based mix with crushed tea leaves, herbs, peanuts and sesame, served with rice and side vegetables; try it at local Hakka diners and tea houses.
Must-Try!
Tofu and vegetables stuffed with seasoned minced meat or fish paste, braised in a light broth — common at local eateries and night markets.
Slow-braised pork belly over steamed rice — an ubiquitous comfort dish available at family restaurants and stalls.
Depending on season, try locally grown fruits (strawberries in nearby Dahu seasonally) and regional oolong teas at farms or small tea shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small morning markets selling fresh vegetables, fruits, tofu, and breakfast items—great for sampling local produce and simple snacks.
Larger night markets a short drive away where you can find oyster omelettes, fried chicken, scallion pancakes and regional Hakka specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple hello (你好 nǐ hǎo) and a smile go far; bowing is not necessary but a slight nod shows respect. Address elders politely.
Remove hats and speak quietly in temples; avoid stepping on thresholds and be respectful when photographing worshippers—ask permission first.
Many homes and some traditional guesthouses request removing shoes on entry—follow hosts’ cues.
Queuing is expected for public transport and food stalls—cutting lines is discouraged. Public displays of anger are frowned upon.
Safety
Tipping in Xianxi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan and most service staff do not expect it; small tips are appreciated in upscale restaurants or for exceptional service but not required.
Cash (New Taiwan Dollar) is widely used in small towns and markets. IC cards (EasyCard/ iPASS) are convenient for buses and convenience stores. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but many small vendors are cash-only—carry some cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and increasing humidity; spring blooms and agricultural planting make countryside scenes verdant. Occasional rain showers are common—pack a light rain jacket.
Hot, humid and the wettest season with monsoon rains and occasional typhoons (July–September). Bring sun protection, light breathable clothing and be prepared for sudden heavy showers or transport disruptions during storms.
Generally the most pleasant travel season: cooler, lower humidity and clearer skies—great for hiking and outdoor photography.
Milder than many temperate climates but cooler and wetter than autumn; evenings can be chilly and rainy. Layers and a waterproof jacket are useful.
Xianxi at Night
Hiking in Xianxi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, easy trail following the local river—good for sunrise walks, birds and lowland scenery; suitable for most fitness levels.
Undemanding loop trails on nearby low hills offering panoramic views over rice paddies and orchards; best in autumn or spring when weather is mild.
A short drive away, the Longteng Broken Bridge area and nearby trails in Sanyi offer rugged scenery, photo opportunities and moderate hikes with cultural interest.
Trails around agricultural areas near Dahu provide leisurely walks, seasonal flower and fruit farm visits, and gentle elevation changes for casual hikers.
Airports
How to reach Xianxi by plane.
About 50–90 minutes away by car depending on route; serves domestic flights and some regional international flights. From the airport you can take taxis, buses or rent a car to reach Xianxi.
Primary international gateway for Taiwan, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car or 1–1.5 hours to HSR/TRA connections then onward to Miaoli. Regular bus and train links connect to Miaoli region.
Smaller city airport serving domestic and limited regional flights; accessible by road and rail connections, useful if arriving from Taipei or other domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the local population in Miaoli County is Hakka—this influences local language, festivals, cuisine and cultural life.
Mainland Chinese descent communities make up the majority population along with various regional subgroups typical of western Taiwan.
Like many rural areas in Taiwan, the population skews older as younger people often move to larger cities for work, making communities close-knit and family-oriented.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball enjoys strong popularity across Taiwan—local communities follow professional and youth baseball, and you may find local games and school teams.
Basketball is widely played and watched at schools, community courts and in local recreational leagues.
Cycling is popular for both recreation and sport; many visitors rent bikes to explore rural roads, riverside paths and coastal routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xianxi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (tofu-based dishes, vegetable stir-fries, rice dishes), but explicit vegetarian or vegan restaurants are limited; learn phrases like “我吃素” (wǒ chī sù) to explain your diet and confirm no fish/sauce is used.
Halal-specific restaurants are rare in small towns — if you need Halal food, plan to travel to larger cities. Gluten-free needs require careful asking about soy sauce and wheat in battered items; bring snacks if you have strict restrictions.