Things To Do
in Miaoli
Miaoli County sits inland in northwestern Taiwan, framed by rolling hills and farmland. It blends rich Hakka heritage with woodcraft towns, tranquil villages, and scenic river valleys. Sanyi is famed for its wood sculpture and craft culture, while Nanzhuang preserves old streets and mountain scenery.
Visitors can savor Lei Cha, explore markets, and use Miaoli as a base for nature strolls through the countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Miaoli Railway Station, an architectural gem that reflects the history of Taiwan's railways. After soaking in the atmosphere, stroll through the nearby Miaoli Cultural Park, where you can admire traditional Taiwanese architecture and local art. Don’t forget to grab a local breakfast, like Taiwanese pancakes or rice balls, from a nearby vendor.
In the afternoon, explore the Miaoli Hakka Cultural Museum to learn about the rich heritage of the Hakka people. Participate in interactive exhibits and enjoy a traditional Hakka lunch featuring unique dishes like Hakka stir-fried noodles. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Miaoli, dotted with quaint shops selling handmade crafts.
As the sun sets, head to the Miaoli Night Market to experience the vibrant local food scene. Indulge in a variety of street foods, including stinky tofu and grilled squid, while browsing the stalls filled with handicrafts. Cap off your evening by enjoying live performances or cultural shows that often take place at the market.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to Sanyi, known for its beautiful landscapes and woodcarving culture. Visit the Sanyi Wood Sculpture Museum to appreciate the intricate artistry and craftsmanship of local woodcarvers. Take a stroll through the surrounding area, where you can enjoy views of lush hills and quaint village life.
In the afternoon, hike the nearby Sanyi Scenic Area, where well-marked trails lead you through lush forests and stunning viewpoints. Don’t miss the chance to snap photos at the iconic Sanyi Bridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. After your hike, relax at a local café, sipping on fresh Taiwanese tea while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
As dusk approaches, explore the charming streets of Sanyi, where you can find various art galleries and shops selling unique wood crafts. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, including mushroom specialties. Finally, take a nighttime stroll to admire the beautifully lit sculptures and art installations throughout the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍢Street snacks or quick bites | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $30-60 |
| 🚆Public transportation fare (local rides) | $1-4 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs or tea purchases | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Hakka culture and woodcraft heritage
- Beautiful rural scenery and relaxed pace
- Affordable costs and easy domestic travel
- Good base for exploring inland Taiwan's mountains
- Less nightlife and some rural amenities may be limited
- Weather can be humid and typhoon-prone in summer
- Smaller international flight access; require transfer for long-haul trips
- Certain attractions may require car rental or bus connections
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問洗手間在哪裡？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡嗎？" - Can I pay by card?
- "我不會說中文" - I don't speak Chinese
- "廁所" - Toilet
- "好吃" - Delicious
Places to Visit in Miaoli
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful woodcarving studios with intricate sculptures and lamps, set against a hillside backdrop.
Historic street scenes, stone storefronts, and traditional temples framed by mountains.
Coastal lighthouse and sandy shores ideal for sunset silhouettes and sea-scapes.
Relaxing springs with surrounding forested hills and misty vistas—great for landscape photography.
Food in Miaoli
Miaoli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Hakka tea-based dish served with rice and an assortment of chopped greens and herbs.
Must-Try!
Silky tofu stuffed with meat and mushrooms, braised in a savory sauce.
Chicken simmered with soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine for a rich, aromatic dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling evening street stalls offering grilled skewers, fried snacks, and local sweets.
Coastline market known for fresh seafood, crispy snacks, and seaside specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite language; a simple nod or small bow is respectful when greeting elders or service staff.
Many homes and some traditional establishments require removing shoes; observe signs and follow locals.
Try to start eating after everyone is served; avoid rushing meals and speak softly in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Miaoli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Taiwan; many places include service charge, but rounding up at casual eateries is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in towns, with mobile payments (Apple Pay, LINE Pay, EasyWallet) increasingly available in larger shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot with frequent humidity; afternoon showers are common; rain gear and sun protection recommended.
Pleasant temperatures, clearer skies; ideal for outdoor photography and hiking.
Cool to mild; evenings can be chilly; pack a light jacket and enjoy cozy tea houses.
Mild weather with blooming flowers; great for countryside landscapes and markets.
Miaoli at Night
Hiking in Miaoli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with views of farmland and distant mountains.
Hilly routes around hot springs area offering forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Miaoli by plane.
The closest major airport to Miaoli; 60-90 minutes by road depending on traffic, with domestic and limited international connections.
Major international gateway serving most long-haul flights; access to Miaoli via high-speed rail or road transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong presence with unique language, cuisine, and cultural traditions.
Majority population alongside Hakka heritage; other minor groups as well.
Smaller communities associated with mountains; cultural sites may be visited with guides.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is widely followed and played at schools and clubs across Taiwan, including Miaoli.
Quiet rural roads and hillside routes attract road cyclists and scenic riders.
A popular indoor/outdoor sport; local courts are common in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Miaoli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Hakka and Taiwanese dishes can be prepared vegetarian; ask for no meat or fish sauce and enjoy Lei Cha greens or tofu dishes, and look for vegetarian options at large markets.