Things To Do
in Zhudong
Zhudong is a tranquil township in Hsinchu County, Taiwan, tucked between rolling hills and patchwork farmland. It offers a slower pace compared to nearby cities, with traditional markets, tea farms, and intimate temples shaping everyday life. As a gateway to nearby nature, Zhudong provides easy access to scenic trails and mountain views without long drives.
Visitors enjoy friendly locals, local snacks, and a chance to experience rural Taiwan with convenient ties to larger urban centers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Zhudong Railway Station, a beautifully preserved piece of architecture that tells the story of Taiwan's railway history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets, where you can see traditional shops and local vendors selling fresh produce. Stop by a local café to savor a traditional Taiwanese breakfast of soy milk and fried dough sticks.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Zhudong Old Street, where you can sample various street foods like stinky tofu and bubble tea. Explore the quaint temples scattered throughout the area, including the historic Cheng Huang Temple, which is renowned for its intricate carvings and vibrant atmosphere. Take some time to relax at a local teahouse, enjoying the serene surroundings while sipping on a fragrant oolong tea.
As the sun sets, head to the nearby night market, where you can experience the lively atmosphere filled with the sounds of vendors and the aroma of delicious food. Try out some local delicacies, such as grilled squid and pineapple cake, while browsing through stalls selling handmade crafts. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the riverfront, where you can enjoy the twinkling lights reflecting off the water.
Begin your day with a visit to the lush Zhudong Forest Park, where you can take a refreshing nature walk among towering trees and vibrant flora. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including various bird species and butterflies fluttering about. Enjoy a picnic breakfast in one of the park's scenic spots, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Hsinchu Zoo, known for its commitment to wildlife conservation and education. Spend time observing the various animals, including Formosan black bears and endangered species, while learning about their habitats and conservation efforts. Afterward, unwind with a leisurely walk around the zoo's beautiful gardens, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
As dusk falls, return to Zhudong and explore the nearby riverside park for a relaxing evening stroll. Take in the beautiful sunset views and enjoy the cool breeze as you reflect on the day's adventures. Conclude your evening with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Taiwanese dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $2-5 |
| 🚆Public transport fare (bus/train) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-70 |
| 🧼Basic groceries or household items | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to nature and scenic viewpoints
- Friendly locals and tasty, comforting cuisine
- Reasonable prices and strong street-food culture
- Quiet, safe environment suitable for relaxed travel
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- English proficiency may vary in rural areas
- Public transportation can be slower outside main hubs
- Weather can be humid and rainy, especially in summer
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問...在哪裡？" - Excuse me, where is...?
- "多少錢？" - How much is it?
- "廁所在哪裡？" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Zhudong
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming street scene with traditional storefronts, lanterns, and morning light casting long shadows over the cobblestone or brick sidewalks.
Colorful fruit stalls and steam rising from breakfast grills create vibrant, candid street photography opportunities.
Terraced fields and tea bushes on gentle slopes provide sweeping backdrop shots, especially during sunrise or golden hour.
Calm courtyards with intricate carvings, lanterns, and incense offering opportunities for detail shots and atmospheric portraits.
Food in Zhudong
Zhudong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised pork served over rice, a comforting staple found in local eateries and markets.
Must-Try!
A savory omelette with oysters, starch, and green onions, often available at street stalls and night markets.
Fresh local greens quickly wok-tossed with garlic and a light soy glaze.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market with fruit stalls, freshly made snacks, and small eateries offering regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite nod or handshake; address elders with respect and use simple Mandarin phrases when possible.
Remove shoes indoors if offered; avoid caressing or touching someone's head; keep voices moderate in public spaces.
Queue patiently in markets and public transport; use both hands when exchanging items and avoid pointing feet at people or sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Zhudong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Taiwan; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in some tourist-focused spots, but not required in most local eateries.
Cash is widely accepted, and many places take credit cards; mobile payments (Line Pay, Apple Pay) are increasingly common in urban areas and larger shops. Transit cards (EasyCard) work for buses and trains.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with fresh greenery and blooming fruit trees; great for outdoor walks and market visits.
Hot and humid with sudden afternoon rain; carry water, light clothing, and a compact umbrella or rain shell.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; ideal for photography and hillside hikes.
Cool to chilly with occasional drizzle; layering is key and tea houses make cozy refuges.
Zhudong at Night
Hiking in Zhudong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hikes with forest scenery, mossy rocks, and occasional viewpoints over valleys.
Gentle trails through tea bushes with opportunities for photography and learning about tea culture.
Airports
How to reach Zhudong by plane.
Main international hub, about a 60-70 minute drive depending on traffic; frequent international and domestic connections.
Closer to Taipei; suitable for domestic flights and regional connections, with convenient metro access to northern Taiwan.
Mid-sized airport offering more limited international service; alternatives for domestic connections to central Taiwan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the local population with unique culinary and linguistic traditions; visitors often encounter Hakka-influenced dishes and cultural markers.
Mainstream demographic in the region, shaping everyday life, markets, and neighborhood activities.
Smaller representation in broader regional culture; occasional festivals and crafts reflect their heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Taiwan; local gyms and public courts often host informal games.
Common recreational sport in schools and community centers.
Widely played in community centers and clubs; easy to pick up as a visitor.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhudong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-based dishes and tofu options; ask for no meat stock and request vegetable oil when frying. Many markets offer fresh tofu and veggie dishes; wear comfortable shoes for a quick walk to nearby stalls.