Things To Do
in Lucao
Lucao is a quiet agricultural township in Chiayi County on Taiwan’s western plain, known for rice paddies, pastoral scenery and local temples. The township offers a slow-paced rural experience with seasonal fields, small markets and friendly village life. It’s a practical base for exploring nearby wetlands, coastal areas and the larger cultural towns of Beigang and Chiayi City.
Visitors come for photography, cycling, temple culture and easy access to Alishan’s highland trails a short drive away.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the old streets of Lucao, where traditional architecture tells the story of the city's rich history. Enjoy a local breakfast at a quaint café, featuring Taiwanese breakfast staples like soy milk and savory pancakes. As you stroll, take in the vibrant murals and charming shops that line the streets.
After your morning exploration, head to the nearby Cultural Hall to delve into the local art scene and learn about the indigenous cultures of Taiwan. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like braised pork rice and fresh seafood. Spend some time at the local market, where you can interact with vendors and pick up unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a riverside café to enjoy the picturesque views of the water reflecting the evening sky. Savor a traditional Taiwanese dinner, perhaps trying hot pot or street food delicacies. End your day with a leisurely walk along the river promenade, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Set out early to Alishan National Scenic Area, known for its stunning landscapes and ancient cypress trees. Embark on a guided nature hike through lush trails, where you can spot unique wildlife and learn about the local flora. Take a moment to enjoy the cool mountain air and the sounds of nature as you ascend.
After your hike, take a break at one of the scenic viewing platforms overlooking the breathtaking valleys below. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty, sampling local snacks such as bento boxes or mountain tea. Spend your afternoon exploring the Alishan Railway and its historical significance, taking a short ride on the scenic train.
As dusk falls, catch the famous sunset at Alishan, where the sky transforms into a palette of colors over the mountains. Head back to Lucao and have dinner at a local eatery, where you can reflect on the day's adventures. Consider visiting a night market for dessert and to experience the lively evening atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-7 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4 |
| 🚆Local bus / short train ride | $0.50-2 |
| 🛌Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-80 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful rural scenery and great photography opportunities
- Easy access to nearby cultural sites like Beigang and natural areas like Aogu Wetland
- Authentic local food and friendly village atmosphere
- Low tourist crowds compared with larger Taiwanese destinations
- Limited nightlife and fewer modern tourist amenities
- Public transport is sparse; a scooter or car is useful
- Language barrier possible in small villages (less English spoken)
- Weather can be hot and disrupted by typhoons in summer
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "謝謝 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "請問廁所在哪裡？ (Qǐngwèn cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
- "這個多少錢？ (Zhège duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is this?
- "可以便宜一點嗎？ (Kěyǐ piányi yīdiǎn ma?)" - Can it be cheaper?
- "我不吃肉 (Wǒ bù chī ròu)" - I don't eat meat
Places to Visit in Lucao
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive flat rice fields that capture colorful sunrises and reflective water in planting season — excellent for wide-angle and reflection shots.
A richly decorated Mazu temple with ornate carvings and lanterns; great for architectural and cultural photography, especially during festivals.
Tidal flats and reed beds that attract migratory birds; boardwalks provide close, low-angle views ideal for bird and landscape photography at golden hour.
Quiet country lanes lined with old banyan trees and traditional houses — perfect for intimate portraits and moody rural scenes.
Vibrant, colorful night markets with neon lighting, steaming food and lively vendors — great for street photography and candid human-interest shots.
Food in Lucao
Lucao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting bowl of soy-braised minced pork over rice — widely available in Lucao and nearby towns, often at family restaurants and market stalls.
Must-Try!
A popular night-market favorite made with fresh oysters, egg and a slightly sweet savory sauce; try it at local evening markets in Chiayi or Beigang.
Simple rice porridge paired with pickled vegetables and small side dishes, commonly eaten for breakfast or as a light meal in rural households and teahouses.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning markets in Lucao sell seasonal fruits, fresh vegetables, local eggs and snacks — ideal for picking up picnic supplies and tasting street-style breakfasts.
Short drive from Lucao, this market near Chaotian Temple features classic Taiwanese snacks — stinky tofu, oyster omelet, grilled skewers and shaved ice desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful at temples: dress modestly, keep voices low, don't point at altars, and follow signage about photography and offerings.
Taiwanese value politeness and orderly queues; use 'please' (請) and 'thank you' (謝謝), and wait your turn at counters and food stalls.
Remove shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments; look for shoe racks or hosts’ cues.
When exchanging money or cards, offer and receive with both hands as a polite gesture, especially in formal situations.
Safety
Tipping in Lucao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; good service is standard and most places do not expect tips. For exceptional service in tourist-oriented businesses, a small tip will be appreciated but is never required.
Cash (NTD) is widely used in rural areas; credit cards are accepted in larger restaurants and hotels but many small vendors are cash-only. Use an EasyCard for local buses and some shops, and mobile payments (LINE Pay, Apple Pay) are increasingly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May brings warming temperatures and occasional rain; agricultural activity increases and some fields bloom, making it a pleasant time for cycling and outdoor photography.
June–August is hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the typhoon season (peaks July–September); mornings are best for outdoor plans and always check weather forecasts.
September–November is generally the most pleasant: warm days, cooler nights, lower humidity and clearer skies — ideal for hiking and coastal trips.
December–February is mild compared with northern climates; cooler mornings and evenings can be breezy, but frost and snow are absent—bring a light jacket for nights.
Lucao at Night
Hiking in Lucao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic highland forest trails that feature ancient cypress trees, cool mountain air and easy-to-moderate hikes — best visited as a day trip or overnight to catch sunrise or forest railway rides.
Short, picturesque trail around two small mountain ponds framed by old trees — a peaceful easy hike popular with photographers.
Flat, accessible boardwalks along the wetland for birdwatching and short nature walks; suitable for families and photographers focusing on wildlife and scenery.
Short rural walks and bike routes threading through rice fields and irrigation canals — ideal for sunrise/sunset photography and gentle exercise.
Airports
How to reach Lucao by plane.
Small domestic airport serving regional flights; nearest airport to Lucao and convenient for onward ground travel by taxi or rental car.
A regional airport about an hour’s drive south, with some domestic and limited international connections; ground transport by bus or car is available.
Major international airport ~1.5–2 hours by car; offers wide flight options and good rail/highway connections to Chiayi County.
Taiwan’s primary international gateway near Taipei; reachable by high-speed rail (HSR) and train connections to Chiayi but significantly farther in travel time.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Hoklo speakers (Minnan dialect) and culture dominates local customs, language and cuisine.
Hakka communities and other Han subgroups are present in the broader Chiayi region, contributing to cultural variety.
Indigenous groups such as the Tsou live in the nearby Alishan highlands; their culture and festivals are an important part of the regional identity.
Like many rural areas in Taiwan, Lucao has an older demographic profile as younger people often move to cities for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is very popular across Taiwan; local communities follow professional teams and youth leagues are common.
Basketball is widely played in towns and schools, with pickup games common in public courts.
Cycling is popular for both leisure and sport — flat rural roads near Lucao are favored by recreational cyclists.
Older residents often practice tai chi and group exercises in parks and community spaces in the mornings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lucao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited in rural villages; ask for 'su' (素) dishes or visit Buddhist vegetarian restaurants in nearby towns. Simple vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes and rice are widely available.
Vegan choices are less common; bring snacks or seek out vegetarian temples or larger towns (Chiayi/Tainan) for dedicated vegan eateries. Clarify ingredients (fish sauce, lard) when ordering.
Many dishes are rice-based and naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce and certain sauces contain gluten. Inform vendors or ask for minimal sauce to reduce cross-contamination.