Things To Do
in Miaoli

Miaoli, Taiwan, is a charming city located in the central part of the island, known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to the scenic mountains and offers a unique blend of urban and rural experiences. The city is particularly famous for its Hakka culture, which is reflected in its festivals, cuisine, and architecture.

With its beautiful temples and natural parks, Miaoli is a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Miaoli
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Miaoli Hakka Cultural Museum to learn about the local Hakka heritage. Follow this with a stroll around the colorful Miaoli Flower Market.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Hakka dishes, then head to the Shitan Scenic Area to explore the beautiful landscapes and take pictures.

evening
:

Dine at a popular night market, sampling street food such as stinky tofu and grilled sausages, and enjoy some local crafts and performances.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the popular Lion's Head Mountain, taking in stunning views and the serene environment.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sanyi Wood Sculpture Museum to appreciate local artistry, followed by a light lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at the Miaoli Night Market, where you can enjoy live music, performances, and more delicious street food.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$3
🍵Cup of Tea$2
🍦Ice Cream Cone$1.50
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage, especially Hakka culture.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Limited English-speaking services compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Hot and humid summers may be uncomfortable for some.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "謝謝" - Thank you
  • "再見" - Goodbye
  • "請問廁所在哪裡?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不會講中文" - I don't speak Chinese.

Places to Visit in Miaoli

Visit one of these nice places.

Lion's Head Mountain

A stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views, perfect for capturing the beauty of Taiwan's landscape.

Miaoli Flower Market

A vibrant market filled with colorful flowers and plants, ideal for capturing the essence of local flora.

Sanyi Wood Sculpture Park

A unique outdoor gallery showcasing intricate wood sculptures, providing a great backdrop for photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Miaoli

Miaoli offers a delightful culinary experience, deeply influenced by Hakka culture. The city is known for its unique flavors and street food delights, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Miaoli Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hakka Stir-Fried Noodles

A savory dish featuring stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat, seasoned with traditional Hakka sauces.

Must-Try!

Pork Belly Buns

Soft buns filled with tender pork belly, often garnished with pickled vegetables and herbs.

Stinky Tofu

A popular street food, this fermented tofu has a strong smell but is beloved for its crispy exterior and soft interior.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Miaoli Night Market

A bustling market offering a wide variety of street food, snacks, and local crafts, perfect for an evening outing.

Sanyi Wood Sculpture Street

Known for its artistic wood sculptures, this area also features small food stalls offering delicious local treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Miaoli experiences a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are cooler but generally mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F). Rain is common during the summer months, necessitating an umbrella or raincoat.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

It is customary to show respect to older individuals, often by offering your seat on public transport.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal, and try to finish everything on your plate.

Politeness in Communication

Using polite language and gestures, such as bowing slightly when greeting, is highly regarded in Taiwanese culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Miaoli is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. It is advisable to exercise standard precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be contacted easily, and locals are often willing to assist if you need help.

Tipping in Miaoli

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash, while credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments; mobile payments are also popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Hot and humid weather is common, so stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Autumn

Enjoy cool, comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Mild winters make it a pleasant time to visit, with occasional rain; warm clothing is recommended for cooler evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Miaoli at Night

Miaoli's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, offering a mix of night markets, local bars, and cultural performances. The Miaoli Night Market is a highlight, bustling with food stalls and games. For those looking for a quieter evening, cozy cafés and tea houses provide a relaxing atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Miaoli

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lion's Head Mountain Trail

This trail offers several routes with varying difficulty levels, leading to panoramic views and peaceful temples along the way.

Bald Grass Mountain

A less-traveled trail that provides a serene hiking experience with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Miaoli by plane.

Taichung Airport

Located approximately 50 kilometers from Miaoli, Taichung Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient entry point to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Miaoli is moderately walkable, with many attractions and restaurants located within walking distance in the city center. However, some areas may require public transport or cycling to reach, especially those further out. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but it’s advisable to stay alert for traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hakka People

The Hakka are a prominent ethnic group in Miaoli, known for their rich cultural traditions and unique language.

Indigenous Peoples

There are several Indigenous communities in Miaoli, contributing to the region's cultural diversity and heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Miaoli, with local teams and a strong following among the community.

Basketball

Basketball courts are common in parks and schools, with many locals enjoying casual games and competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Miaoli can be moderate, especially during rush hours. Public transport options include buses and local trains, which are convenient for navigating the city and surrounding areas. Biking is also a popular way to get around, with dedicated bike lanes in some locations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Miaoli.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients to ensure they meet dietary needs.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options may be limited, fresh fruits and vegetables are widely available, and some restaurants can accommodate requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Miaoli is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and most medical facilities have English-speaking staff. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2025 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide