Things To Do
in Xionglin

Xionglin is a picturesque township located in the Hsinchu County of Taiwan, renowned for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The area is characterized by rice paddies, rolling hills, and vibrant local markets, making it a hidden gem for travelers. It offers a serene escape from the bustling cities and provides an authentic glimpse into Taiwanese rural life.

Visitors can explore historical temples, enjoy local delicacies, and engage with friendly locals who are eager to share their traditions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Xionglin Riverside Park to enjoy the scenic views and fresh air. Afterward, head to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample traditional breakfast foods.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical Xionglin Temple, where you can learn about local religious practices and admire the intricate architecture. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby rice paddies and participating in a rice planting workshop.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Taiwanese dishes. End your day with a relaxing walk along the riverside, taking in the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Huangshan Mountain, where you can witness breathtaking views and diverse flora. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the local craft workshops to see artisans at work, and perhaps try your hand at making traditional crafts. Don't miss the chance to purchase some unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a popular night market, where you can taste various street foods and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Cap off your night by visiting a local bar for some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$3
🍵Bubble Tea$2
🏨Mid-range Hotel Night$50
🚌Bus Fare$1
🍽️Dinner at a Restaurant$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and landscapes
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation can be infrequent
  • Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "謝謝" - Thank you
  • "請問廁所在哪裡?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "我需要幫助" - I need help
  • "再見" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Xionglin

Visit one of these nice places.

Xionglin Riverside

A beautiful riverfront area perfect for capturing sunset reflections and natural landscapes.

Huangshan Mountain

Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for landscape photography.

Local Temples

Intricate architecture and vibrant colors make the temples a fantastic subject for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Xionglin

Xionglin offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes reflecting Taiwan's rich culture and agricultural heritage.

Xionglin Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Braised Pork Rice

A popular Taiwanese dish featuring minced pork simmered in soy sauce served over rice.

Must-Try!

Scallion Pancakes

Crispy, flaky pancakes filled with green onions, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Bubble Tea

A sweet tea-based drink with chewy tapioca pearls that originated in Taiwan.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Xionglin Night Market

A bustling night market offering a wide array of street food, snacks, and local delicacies.

Local Farmers' Market

A vibrant market where local farmers sell fresh produce, handmade goods, and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Xionglin experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F). The rainy season occurs in late spring and summer, while autumn is generally dry and comfortable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; it's customary to greet them first.

Politeness in Communication

Using polite language and gestures, such as bowing slightly when greeting, is valued.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating, and avoid pointing with chopsticks.

Safety Guide

Safety

Xionglin is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. Standard safety precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night. It's also advisable to keep personal belongings secure and remain aware of your surroundings.

Tipping in Xionglin

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in Taiwan, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept cash and credit cards; mobile payment apps like LINE Pay are also widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, with occasional rain; stay hydrated and plan for indoor activities during peak heat.

Autumn

Autumn is characterized by cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winters are mild, but occasional rain can occur; it's a quieter time for tourism, ideal for a peaceful visit.

Nightlife Guide

Xionglin at Night

Xionglin's nightlife is a blend of local bars, night markets, and cultural performances. The night market is the focal point, offering street food, games, and local entertainment. Small bars and cafes may feature live music or karaoke, creating a lively atmosphere. However, the scene is more subdued compared to larger cities, making it suitable for a relaxed evening out.

Hiking in Xionglin

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Huangshan Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail that leads to the peak of Huangshan Mountain, offering stunning views and diverse ecosystems.

Bamboo Forest Trail

This serene trail winds through a lush bamboo forest, perfect for a leisurely hike and nature photography.

Airports

How to reach Xionglin by plane.

Hsinchu Airport

Located approximately 30 minutes from Xionglin, Hsinchu Airport offers domestic flights and is the closest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Xionglin is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, eateries, and markets are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the pace of life is slow, making it pleasant for leisurely strolls. However, some areas outside the main town may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Taiwanese Farmers

A significant demographic in Xionglin, they are engaged in agriculture, particularly rice and vegetable cultivation.

Young Families

Many young families live in Xionglin, often drawn by the peaceful rural lifestyle and good schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite sport in Taiwan, with local teams often playing in community leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played, especially among the youth, with many local courts available for open play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Xionglin is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation includes buses, which connect to neighboring towns and cities, but service may be limited in frequency. Walking and cycling are popular, especially for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Xionglin.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inquire about meat-based broths or sauces.

Gluten-Free Foods

Gluten-free options might be limited; communicating dietary needs to staff is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Xionglin is accessible with local clinics and hospitals available for minor health issues. Taiwan's National Health Insurance provides good coverage, ensuring that both locals and visitors can receive medical care. Pharmacies are also common and can provide over-the-counter medications.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2025 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide