Hsinchu, Taiwan: travel guide
Windswept science-park city with an old centre and a glass-making craft
Taiwan's "Windy City" and Silicon Valley equivalent, Hsinchu is home to the Hsinchu Science Park driving Taiwan's semiconductor industry.
About Hsinchu
Hsinchu is a city of contrasts, known both for its science park and for a historic centre that still has the air of an older Taiwan. Its strong winds earned it the nickname Windy City.
In the old town you can visit the Chenghuang Temple, walk around the East Gate and sample local specialities such as meatball soup and rice noodles. Glass-making is a local craft with its own museum and workshops, while the coast at Nanliao draws birdwatchers and walkers.
Hsinchu suits travellers who like a mix of tech and tradition, and works well as a day trip from Taipei. Autumn is the most pleasant season, with the wind at its strongest in winter.
- Country
- Taiwan
- Currency
- TWD
- Time zone
- Asia/Taipei
- Nearest airport
- TPE
Last updated
Top places to visit in Hsinchu
Hsinchu East Gate
Heritage · 4.4 rating · about 0.5 h · check the fee at the gate
The 1829 Yingxi Gate (迎曦門) — sole surviving Qing-era city gate of Hsinchu. The Victorian-era roundabout encircling it is a city icon.
Things to do
- Lion's Head Mountain Temple Trek Adventure · 4 h · from TWD 180 per person
Where to stay in Hsinchu
Hotels
- Ambassador Hotel Hsinchu 5-star · TWD 5,000 to TWD 14,000 per night
Where to eat
- Hsinchu City God Temple Meatball Lane taiwanese · about TWD 108 per person
Getting to Hsinchu
Airport: Hsinchu (via Taipei Taoyuan) (TPE)
Getting around
- Bus
- Taxi
- Walking