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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.

Places to visit

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Local Culture & Cuisine

morning:Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Chiayi Cultural and Creative Industries Park, where you can browse local artworks and handicrafts. Dive into the city's history at the Chiayi City Historical Relic Museum and gain insight into the region's past. Don't miss breakfast at Alishan House, where you can savor traditional Taiwanese pastries and aromatic coffee.

afternoon:Head to Hinoki Village to immerse yourself in its nostalgic atmosphere and explore the unique architecture. At the same location, indulge in lunch at Hinoki Steak, known for its delicious grilled dishes and cozy ambience. After lunch, take a short walk to Chiayi Taiwan Hinoki Museum to learn more about the significance of hinoki cypress in the local culture.

evening:For an evening out, make your way to Wenhua Road Night Market, where you can sample a variety of street food, including the famous turkey rice. Enjoy the lively atmosphere while browsing through the stalls and sampling local delicacies.

day 2

Nature & Scenic Beauty

morning:Embark on a serene morning hike through Alishan National Forest Recreation Area and marvel at the breathtaking sunrise over the famous sea of clouds. After working up an appetite, head to Alishan Railway Station for a delightful breakfast at the nostalgic Alishan Railway Bento shop, where you can enjoy a traditional railway bento box.

afternoon:Explore the enchanting Sister Lakes, where you can take a leisurely boat ride and admire the serene surroundings. Afterwards, treat yourself to a gourmet lunch at Sister Lakes Restaurant, known for its delectable local cuisine and stunning lake views. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance as you savor the flavors of Chiayi.

evening:Conclude your day with a visit to Fenchihu Old Street, where you can stroll through the charming alleyways and immerse yourself in the nostalgic ambiance. Indulge in a relaxed evening at Fenchihu Hotel, known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional charm.

day 3

Cultural Heritage & Gastronomic Delights

morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Chiayi Municipal Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the region's cultural heritage and historical artifacts. Afterward, head to Beimen Railway Station, where you can relish a delectable brunch at the iconic Chiayi Brunch store, known for its flavorful and satisfying local dishes.

afternoon:Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Minxiong Township with a visit to the Minxiong Folk Museum, which offers intriguing exhibits and insights into the township's traditions. For a delightful afternoon treat, make your way to Peikang Gardens, where you can enjoy an authentic afternoon tea experience amidst lush surroundings.

evening:Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Dongshan River Water Park Night Market, where you can savor a diverse array of local street food and delectable snacks. Don't miss the chance to try the renowned Ayu fish dishes while enjoying the lively ambiance.

day 4

Art & Cuisine Fusion

morning:Embark on an artistic morning at Chiayi Performing Arts Center, where you can appreciate the diverse array of performances and exhibitions. Delight in a delightful breakfast at the center's Cafe Lohas, known for its artistic ambiance and delectable pastries and coffee.

afternoon:Discover the intriguing blend of art and culinary delights at Sun-Shooting Tower (Ri Yue Tower), where you can enjoy both captivating artworks and a scrumptious lunch at the tower's renowned restaurant. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Lantan Reservoir to take in the peaceful scenery and enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

evening:Conclude your day with a visit to Wenhua Road Night Market, a haven for food enthusiasts. Explore the vibrant market and sample a variety of local delicacies, including the famous Chicken Rice. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and savor the flavors of Chiayi.

Chiayi Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Turkey Rice (火雞肉飯)

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 (嘉義米線)

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 Egg (鐵蛋)

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.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Wenhua Road Night Market (文化路夜市)

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.

Chiayi Winshaw Green Tunnel (嘉義文學隧道市集)

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.

Dietary Restrictions

Navigating dietary restrictions locally

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

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.

Vegetarian, Vegan

Gluten-Free Options

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.

Gluten-Free

Restaurants & Cafés

Best places to eat and drink in Chiayi

Alishan House Restaurant (阿里山賓館餐廳)

Situated amidst stunning natural surroundings, Alishan House Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience, serving up delectable Taiwanese and international cuisine. Visitors can relish exquisite dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the picturesque Alishan area.

Old Prison Restaurant (舊監獄餐廳)

Housed in a former prison building, this unique restaurant provides an atmospheric setting for enjoying authentic Hakka cuisine. Diners can savor traditional Hakka dishes and learn about the region's cultural heritage through the restaurant's intriguing history.

MY CAFE (咩角咩角手作咖啡)

MY CAFE is a charming coffee house known for its artisanal coffee, homemade desserts, and cozy ambiance. Visitors can unwind with a specialty brew and indulge in delightful pastries, making it a perfect retreat amidst the bustling city.

Things to do in Chiayi

Unique local experiences...

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