Things To Do
in Lugang

A Taiwanese classic: eggs, starch, oysters and savory-sweet sauce. Widely available at night markets and Old Street stalls.

Must-Try!

Local versions of meatball dishes and rice dumplings; look for shops hand-making pork meatballs and steamed buns in the old town.

Comfort food staple — minced braised pork over rice; served in small restaurants across town.

Traditional sweets sold in many Old Street shops; good souvenirs and snacks.

Cluster of vendors selling snacks like oyster omelet, fried dough, rice cakes and local sweets; busiest in late afternoon and evening.

A short ride away, this port market offers very fresh seafood, grilled catches and small seafood restaurants where fishermen sell straight off the boat (best for lunch).

Be respectful in temples: speak softly, dress modestly, avoid stepping into areas behind altars, and do not place feet toward religious images. Follow photography rules — some altars restrict pictures.

Wait to be seated in formal settings, offer or receive items with both hands, avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice (it resembles incense at funerals), and do not point chopsticks at others.

Taiwanese value politeness and orderly behavior: queue patiently, avoid loud disruptive behavior, and ask permission before photographing people, especially older residents during festivals.

Mandarin and Taiwanese Hokkien are commonly spoken; a few polite Mandarin phrases go a long way. Smiles and a modest tone are appreciated.

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan. Most restaurants do not expect tips; higher-end hotels may accept or not expect tips — small gestures are appreciated but not required. Some restaurants include a 10% service charge.

Cash (NTD) is widely used and necessary at small stalls and temples. Credit cards are accepted at many restaurants and hotels, but smaller shops may be cash-only. Mobile payments (Apple/Google Pay, Line Pay, JKoPay) are increasingly common in urban areas. ATMs are available in Changhua and Taichung; carry some cash for Lukang.

Hot and humid (June–August) with temperatures often 28–35°C (82–95°F). Afternoon thunderstorms and the typhoon season (summer–early autumn) can bring heavy rain and strong winds — check forecasts and be flexible with outdoor plans.

(September–November) Generally the most pleasant time: warm days, cooler evenings and lower humidity. Good for outdoor exploring and festivals that continue after summer.

Mild and cooler (December–February), temperatures often 12–18°C (54–64°F). Occasional chilly winds and drizzle; bring a light jacket. Winter is also a good time for migratory birds in nearby wetlands.

Warm but changeable (March–May) with intermittent rain. Expect budding greenery, and agriculture activity in surrounding countryside — a pleasant time for cycling and short hikes.

About 40–60 minutes by car from Lukang depending on traffic. Offers domestic and some international flights; car rental, taxi and shuttle options connect to Taichung and Changhua.

Main international gateway near Taipei (~1.5–2 hours by car or 2–2.5 hours by bus/train). Good choice if flying internationally; take high-speed rail or bus toward Taichung/Changhua and transfer by local bus or taxi to Lukang.

Located farther south (~2–3 hours by car). Useful if combining a southern Taiwan itinerary; connect by HSR or regional rail to central Taiwan and continue by road to Lukang.

Smaller regional airport (~1.5–2 hours drive). Limited commercial routes but sometimes convenient for regional travel combined with road transfer to Lukang.

Majority of locals speak Taiwanese Hokkien and Mandarin; hold many of the town’s traditional crafts and religious practices.

Present in the broader Changhua region with distinct cultural contributions though smaller in Lukang itself.

Like many smaller towns, Lukang has a notable proportion of older residents; community life often centers on temples, markets and traditional trades.

A growing group of small-business owners, craftspersons and younger residents interested in cultural preservation and tourism services.

Baseball is widely popular across Taiwan; locals follow professional and school teams and community games are common.

Street basketball and community leagues are common among youth and adults; easy to find pickup games in nearby towns.

Cycling for leisure and commuting is popular on coastal roads and dedicated bike paths; many visitors rent bikes to explore the area.

Traditional sport during the summer festival season; regional teams practice and compete in nearby rivers and coastal areas.

Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in small seafood-focused shops; Buddhist vegetarian restaurants and temple-food stalls are your best bet. Ask for '素食' (sùshí) and specify no fish stock. Many noodle and rice dishes can be adapted.

More challenging — search for explicitly vegan or Buddhist vegetarian eateries and clarify ingredients. Carry snacks if you have strict needs.

Soy sauce and wheat-based starch are common; ask about ingredients and seek simple dishes like steamed vegetables, plain rice, sashimi or grilled seafood labeled without soy sauce.

Peanuts, shellfish and soy are widely used. Carry translations of allergy statements in Chinese and avoid street foods if cross-contamination is a concern.