Things To Do
in Buyan

A Taiwanese classic of minced braised pork over steamed rice; find excellent home-style versions in small local restaurants and lunch stalls.

Must-Try!

A savory, slightly chewy omelette with fresh oysters and sweet-spicy sauce; commonly available at night markets and seafood stalls.

Central Taiwan grows quality teas—sample locally brewed oolong and small tea-smoked side dishes at tea houses and plantations near Buyan.

Depending on season, roadside stalls sell fresh local fruit; perfect as snacks or for markets’ shaved-ice desserts.

A compact night market offering skewers, stinky tofu, oyster omelettes, bubble tea and shaved ice — ideal for sampling small plates and mingling with locals.

A daytime market where farmers sell seasonal produce, eggs and homemade condiments — great for photographing colorful stalls and buying fresh fruit.

A simple 'nǐ hǎo' or a nod is fine; respect for elders and modest dress in temples are important.

Many homes and some traditional guesthouses require removing shoes — follow hosts’ cues and use provided slippers if offered.

Be respectful in temples: speak quietly, ask before photographing people praying, and avoid stepping on thresholds or altar areas.

Taiwanese value orderly lines and polite behavior in public — wait your turn and avoid loud phone conversations in quiet spaces.

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; good service is expected and typically included in prices. Small tips are appreciated but not required, except possibly at higher-end hotels where a service charge may already be included.

Cash (New Taiwan Dollars) is widely used in rural Buyan, especially at markets and small stalls. EasyCard and other IC transit cards work for buses and some convenience stores; credit cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Line Pay) are accepted at larger restaurants and hotels but may be less common at market vendors — carry cash for small purchases.

Mild temperatures and blooming orchards make spring pleasant for hiking and photography; occasional rain showers occur, so pack a light rain jacket.

Hot, humid and often rainy due to the monsoon and typhoon season; plan indoor alternatives for heavy-rain days and check weather advisories during typhoon threats.

Generally the most comfortable season with cooler, drier weather — ideal for outdoor activities, cycling and mountain views.

Mild to cool temperatures in lowlands; higher elevations can be chilly. Fog and low clouds are common in the mornings, creating atmospheric photos.

Short, accessible trails on low hills around Buyan that offer sunrise viewpoints and rice-paddy panoramas — suitable for morning walks and photography.

A forested area within reasonable driving distance known for cool trails, bamboo groves, and educational exhibits — excellent for family-friendly hikes and nature photography.

Popular with Taichung residents, Dakeng features a network of trails of varying difficulty, rock formations and lookout points — expect more hikers on weekends.

For alpine scenery and seasonal snow (in winter), Hehuanshan is a longer day trip from Buyan and offers dramatic mountain landscapes; check road conditions and weather before going.

Vegetarian options exist but are less common in rural kitchens; order 'sù' (素) dishes, ask for no fish sauce or lard, and rely on vegetable stir-fries, tofu and noodle soups at vegetarian or Buddhist-style eateries in nearby towns.

Vegan options require clear communication; pre-packaged snacks and fruit are safe choices. Seek out vegetarian restaurants in Taichung if strict vegan meals are needed.

Rice-based dishes are usually safe, but soy sauce contains wheat—ask for tamari or no soy sauce. Street food often uses batter so check ingredients when possible.

Halal-certified restaurants are rare in rural areas. Muslim travelers should plan ahead, bring snacks or travel to larger cities where more certified options exist.