Things To Do
in Zhongli
Zhongli is a bustling Taoyuan city district known for its lively markets, traditional temples, and convenient transport links. It blends old-town charm with modern amenities, serving as a practical base for exploring northern Taiwan. The Zhongli Night Market and surrounding lanes offer a wide array of snacks, shops, and cultural finds.
With easy access to Taoyuan Airport and nearby nature, Zhongli is a welcoming stop for travelers seeking variety and ease.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Zhongli Railway Station, where you can admire the fusion of modern and traditional architecture. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Zhongli Night Market, which is bustling with local vendors preparing for the day. Don't forget to grab a traditional Taiwanese breakfast, such as dan bing (egg pancake) or a warm bowl of soy milk.
In the afternoon, head to the Zhongli Arts and Culture Center, where you can explore local art exhibitions and attend workshops. Next, visit the nearby Daxi District, known for its historical buildings and charming streets, perfect for photography. Take a moment to enjoy a traditional tea house experience, sipping on locally sourced teas.
As the sun sets, return to Zhongli Night Market to experience its vibrant evening atmosphere. Indulge in street food delicacies such as stinky tofu and bubble tea while enjoying live performances. Wind down the evening by browsing the market's unique crafts and souvenirs.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Shimen Reservoir, where you can soak in stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains. The cool morning air is perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. Spend some time taking photos of the beautiful landscapes and diverse flora.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch by the reservoir, where you can relax and take in the scenery. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Cihu Memorial Sculpture Park, where you can walk among impressive sculptures and learn about Taiwan's history. The park's peaceful environment and artistic installations provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll.
As evening falls, head back to Zhongli and treat yourself to a dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Hakka cuisine. Sample dishes like stuffed tofu and sweet potato noodles, which will give you a taste of the area’s cultural heritage. Finish your day with a serene walk along the riverbank, enjoying the night lights reflecting on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🥟Local street snack | $1-3 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $5-10 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or small shopping item | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent street food and markets with good value
- Efficient transport connections to Taipei and Taoyuan Airport
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, safe atmosphere
- Variety of nearby nature spots for day trips
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to Taipei
- Some areas can be crowded and noisy in markets
- English may be limited outside tourist areas
- Humidity and heat in summer can be uncomfortable
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Duìbuqǐ" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Nǐ huì shuō yīngyǔ ma?" - Do you speak English?
- "Zhège duōshǎo qián?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Zhongli
Visit one of these nice places.
A temple complex with traditional architecture, lantern-lined courtyards, and atmospheric light for street photography.
Historic street with storefronts, signage, and a blend of old-world charm and modern life.
Expansive lake views, distant mountains, and winding paths ideal for landscape and waterside photography.
Several riverside vantage points and green spaces offer great sunset and candid photography opportunities.
Food in Zhongli
Zhongli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty bowl with tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich broth; a staple find in family-run noodle shops near the station.
Must-Try!
A glutinous rice wrapper filled with pork and mushrooms, typically served with a sweet-savory sauce.
Savory omelette with fresh oysters and a crisp starch base; widely available at night markets.
Fermented tofu fried crisp, served with pickled cabbage and chili sauce; a bold market staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub after dark offering fried snacks, grilled skewers, bubble tea, and other local specialties.
Fresh produce stalls, quick bites, and local snacks to start your day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite language and address people with respect. It’s common to say please and thank you, especially in shops and cafes.
Stand in line and wait your turn in markets and public transport queues.
Keep noise levels considerate in residential areas; avoid loud conversations on trains or buses.
When visiting temples, dress modestly and remove hats; avoid touching statues and follow local etiquette.
Safety
Tipping in Zhongli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan. In tourist areas, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated but not expected. Service charges are not universally added, so check the receipt first.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming greenery; comfortable for street strolling and temple visits.
Hot and humid with frequent showers; carry water, light clothing, and rain gear; occasional typhoons.
Pleasant and dry-to-moderate humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and photography with softer light.
Mild to cool (roughly 12–20°C); layering recommended; rainfall is possible but generally comfortable for city exploration.
Zhongli at Night
Hiking in Zhongli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic loop offering water views, gentle elevation, and opportunities for photos along the shoreline.
Moderate forested trail with viewpoints and natural scenery, a short drive from Zhongli.
Airports
How to reach Zhongli by plane.
Main international gateway located a short drive or train ride from Zhongli; frequent international and domestic flights.
City airport in Taipei; accessible by rail or road for domestic and some regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnicity with diverse regional backgrounds.
A notable linguistic and cultural minority with traditional foods and customs.
Smaller groups contributing unique cultural traditions and crafts.
A growing demographic fueling local cafes, markets, and nightlife.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular in Taiwan; local parks and schools host casual games and events.
Common in community centers and schools; pick-up games are widely available.
A frequent pastime in community spaces and sports centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhongli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find veggie dishes at night markets and noodle shops; look for tofu-based dishes and mark requests clearly when ordering.