Things To Do
in Chiayi
Chiayi is a vibrant city located in southern Taiwan, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The city is home to the famous Alishan National Scenic Area, a popular tourist destination with stunning mountain scenery and unique flora and fauna. Chiayi also boasts charming old streets lined with traditional shops and vendors selling local specialties.
Visitors can enjoy delicious Taiwanese cuisine, explore historic sites, and experience the warm hospitality of the local people in Chiayi.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Qing" - Please
- "Duibuqi" - Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Alishan National Scenic Area for breathtaking sunrise views. Enjoy a scenic train ride through the beautiful forest.
Head to the Alishan Forest Railway and explore the charming ancient trees. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy local street food at nearby stalls.
Return to Chiayi city and savor a traditional Taiwanese dinner. Explore the night market for unique snacks and fun shopping.
Visit the Chiayi Cultural and Creative Industries Park to appreciate local art and crafts. Grab a coffee at one of the trendy cafes inside the park.
Explore the historic Chiayi Old Town and visit the Chiayi Railway Station. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and try some traditional Chiayi turkey rice.
Visit the Chiayi Park and take a leisurely stroll around the lake. Grab dinner at a popular eatery before heading to the night market.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and temples.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains and coastlines.
- Less crowded compared to larger cities in Taiwan, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Delicious local cuisine, famous for its street food and traditional dishes.
- Access to Taroko National Park and other outdoor activities.
- Limited public transportation options compared to metropolitan areas.
- Potential language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers.
- Hot and humid climate, particularly in summer months.
- May lack some modern amenities and entertainment options found in larger cities.
- Economic activities might be less diverse compared to bigger urban areas.
Best Activities in Chiayi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning scenery, hiking trails, and unique railway experience in the Alishan National Scenic Area.
Visit this beautifully preserved historic village featuring Japanese-style architecture and surrounded by a forest of cypress trees.
Cross this picturesque suspension bridge offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Tours
Uncover the best of Chiayi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Chiayi
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its sunrise, sunset, and sea of clouds, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities of the surrounding mountains and forests.
A charming old street with traditional buildings and train station, providing unique and picturesque scenes for photography.
A landmark building offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing cityscape and skyline shots.
A tranquil reservoir with stunning reflections and diverse birdlife, providing great photo opportunities for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Food in Chiayi
Chiayi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Chiayi specialty, Turkey Rice features succulent pieces of turkey served over a bed of fluffy rice and slathered in a savory sauce. Diners can savor this dish at Shun Tian Feng (順天豐) or A Hua Turkey Rice (阿華火雞肉飯).
Must-Try!
Chiayi Rice Noodles are a local favorite, known for their springy texture and flavorful broth. One can relish this dish at renowned spots such as Chiayi A-gei Rice Noodle (嘉義阿給米線) and A Cheng Rice Noodle (阿城米線).
Iron Eggs are a popular snack in Chiayi, featuring hard-boiled eggs that are repeatedly braised in a blend of spices, resulting in a chewy and flavorful treat. Visitors can indulge in this unique delicacy at Ruifeng Night Market (瑞豐夜市) or one of the many street food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Chiayi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling night market offers an abundance of street food options, including stinky tofu, oyster omelets, grilled skewers, and various local snacks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere and sample an array of traditional Taiwanese delicacies.
The Winshaw Green Tunnel market features a mix of vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and delectable street food. It's an ideal spot to explore local flavors and experience the vibrant food culture of Chiayi.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Chiayi, Taiwan, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and addressing them with their title or honorific.
Punctuality is highly valued in Chiayi, so it is important to arrive on time for social and business engagements.
When visiting temples in Chiayi, it is important to follow the local customs such as removing shoes before entering and showing reverence to the religious artifacts.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Chiayi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Chiayi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Chiayi, Taiwan. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service industry establishments.
Payment in Chiayi, Taiwan is commonly done in cash, but major credit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Chiayi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Chiayi is during Spring from March to May when the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Summer in Chiayi, from June to August, is hot and humid with occasional rain showers. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities and summer festivals.
Autumn in Chiayi, from September to November, offers pleasant weather and stunning fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Winter from December to February can be chilly in Chiayi, but it's a good time to visit for those who enjoy cooler temperatures and want to experience traditional lunar New Year celebrations.
Chiayi at Night
Hiking in Chiayi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous for its stunning sunrise views, lush forests, and scenic railway. A perfect spot for various hiking trails.
A beautiful forest park offering several hiking trails that weave through the towering trees and diverse flora.
A picturesque waterfall located in the mountains, accessible via a short hike that offers tranquil views.
Known for its biodiversity and serene hiking paths, this area is perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Home to Taiwan's highest peak, this national park has challenging trails and breathtaking landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Chiayi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Chiayi by plane.
Located in Taoyuan, approximately 175 kilometers northwest of Chiayi, it is the largest and busiest airport in Taiwan.
Situated in Kaohsiung, about 100 kilometers south of Chiayi, it serves as a major gateway for southern Taiwan.
Located approximately 50 kilometers to the southwest of Chiayi, it primarily serves domestic flights but has some international connections.
While smaller, this airport is located directly in Chiayi and has domestic flights with some international cargo operations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group, making up a significant majority of the population.
Indigenous groups of Taiwan, including the Tsou, Saisiyat, and Buang, representing a smaller percentage of the population.
A subgroup of Han Chinese, known for their distinct language and cultural practices, present in Chiayi.
A growing demographic, consisting mainly of foreign workers from Southeast Asia engaged in various industries.
Individuals, primarily from Southeast Asian countries, who have moved to Taiwan for marriage and family reasons.
The Soul of Chiayi
Discover the essence of Chiayi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a very popular sport in Chiayi, with local teams and schools participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Basketball is widely played among youth in Chiayi, with many outdoor courts and school teams contributing to its popularity.
Soccer enjoys significant participation in Chiayi, with community leagues and school competitions drawing many players and fans.
Traditional Taiwanese sports, including tug-of-war and dragon boat racing, are commonly celebrated in Chiayi during festivals and community events.
Running events and marathons have gained popularity in Chiayi, with many residents participating in organized runs to promote health and fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chiayi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Chiayi's cuisine traditionally features a variety of meat-based dishes, many restaurants and street food vendors offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Visitors can look for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants (素食餐廳) and explore the diverse array of vegetable-based specialties available across the city.
Travelers with gluten restrictions will find an increasing number of gluten-free dining options in Chiayi. Some eateries offer rice-based dishes, noodle soups, and fresh seafood that cater to gluten-free dietary needs. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly when dining out to ensure a pleasant culinary experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Chiayi with these cultural adventures.