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Caotun

Caotun is a bustling town located in central Taiwan, known for its picturesque scenery and natural beauty. Surrounded by lush mountains and serene lakes, Caotun offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration and eco-tourism activities. The town also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with traditional temples and historic sites dotting the landscape.

Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a wide range of local delicacies, from street food vendors to charming cafes serving up regional specialties.

Places to visit

Sun Moon Lake
Lukang

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Caotun

morning:Start your day with a visit to the Caotun Farmers' Association Market, where you can explore local produce and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Then head to the Caotun Indigenous Culture Park to learn about the indigenous tribes of the area.

afternoon:For lunch, try the famous braised pork rice at Lao Tian Lu, a popular local eatery. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Jiji Green Tunnel, a picturesque tree-lined pathway perfect for relaxation.

evening:In the evening, enjoy a night-out at the Puli Brewery, tasting a variety of local craft beers.

day 2

Nature and Heritage

morning:Spend your morning hiking at Wandan Nature Education Area, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes. After your hike, grab a hearty brunch at Alishan House, known for its delectable Taiwanese cuisine.

afternoon:Explore the woodcarving village of Checheng, where you can witness traditional artisans at work. Don't miss the opportunity to taste authentic Hakka cuisine at Hakka Restaurant during your visit.

evening:For a relaxing evening, take a stroll around Sun Moon Lake and enjoy the tranquility of this natural wonder.

day 3

Cultural Immersion

morning:Begin your day at Wanglongpi, a charming village famous for its bamboo art. Enjoy a traditional Taiwanese breakfast at Chen Ji Mian Xian and shop for unique handicrafts at the local markets.

afternoon:Immerse yourself in history at the National Museum of Natural Science, followed by a delightful lunch at Yun Yue Restaurant, known for its exquisite Chinese cuisine.

evening:Experience the vibrant night market at Feng Chia Night Market, where you can indulge in a wide variety of street food and shop for souvenirs.

day 4

Relaxation and Wellness

morning:Start your day with a peaceful yoga session overlooking the serene landscapes at Yushan National Park. Afterward, savor a nourishing breakfast at Green Fei, a cozy café known for its healthy dishes.

afternoon:Indulge in a rejuvenating hot spring experience at Rixin Hot Spring Resort, followed by a light lunch at the resort's restaurant. Take a leisurely walk around the tranquil Lugu Tea Garden to unwind and enjoy the scenic views.

evening:For a blissful evening, visit the Tataka Visitor Center and take in the breathtaking sunset views from the observation deck.

Caotun Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Hakka Lei Cha

A traditional Hakka dish featuring a tea-based broth served with a mix of ground grains, herbs, and topped with assorted vegetables. Must-try at Tianxin Lei Cha in Caotun.

Must-Try!

Mountain Boar Sausage

Savory and slightly sweet sausage made from local mountain boar. Recommended at Caotun's night markets or local street food stalls.

Bamboo Tube Rice

Sticky rice cooked inside a bamboo tube, offering a unique earthy flavor. Available at various food stalls in Caotun's night markets.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Caotun Night Market

An array of stalls offering local delights such as stinky tofu, oyster omelets, grilled meats, and refreshing fruit juices.

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Caotun Farmers' Market

A great place to experience the freshest local produce, handcrafted snacks, and traditional delicacies directly from the producers.

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Zhongxing Street Food Stalls

This area bursts with street vendors selling everything from fried chicken cutlets to bubble tea, providing a true culinary adventure.

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Dietary Restrictions

Navigating dietary restrictions locally

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Most restaurants and street vendors in Caotun provide a variety of vegetarian and vegan options due to the prevalence of Buddhism in Taiwan. Look for dishes featuring tofu, vegetables, and rice noodles.

Vegetarian, Vegan

Gluten-Free Considerations

While traditional Taiwanese cuisine includes soy sauce and wheat-based products, many modern establishments in Caotun are mindful of gluten-free diets and offer alternatives like rice-based dishes and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Gluten-Free

Restaurants & Cafés

Best places to eat and drink in Caotun

Hakka Restaurant - Lan Shan Tian Ran Ju

Nestled in the scenic mountains, this restaurant offers a serene environment to savor authentic Hakka cuisine with vegetarian options available.

Taro Cafe

A charming cafe known for its innovative taro-based dishes and beverages, suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Lantern Xiao Cai

A cozy eatery offering a fusion of indigenous and modern Taiwanese dishes, with accommodating gluten-free choices.

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