Things To Do
in Sanxing
Sanxing Township is a rural area in Yilan County, Taiwan, known for its agrarian heritage and welcoming countryside atmosphere. It sits inland near Luodong and the coast, blending farmland, markets, and small craft workshops with easy access to nearby nature reserves. The town centers on local produce—especially onions—giving visitors rustic, flavor-driven experiences and a slower pace of life.
While tranquil, Sanxing is well-connected to regional highlights, making it a great base for exploring northeast Taiwan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day wandering along Sanxing Old Street, where traditional Taiwanese architecture and local crafts abound. Visit the quaint shops and enjoy breakfast at a local eatery, sampling fresh soy milk and crispy youtiao. The atmosphere here is lively with locals going about their daily routines.
After lunch, explore the various artisanal workshops, particularly those specializing in ink making and paper goods. Participate in a hands-on workshop to learn about traditional Taiwanese art forms. Take time to visit nearby temples and immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the area.
Dine at a nearby night market offering a variety of Taiwanese street food, including oyster omelets and bubble tea. Enjoy a leisurely walk to soak in the evening lights and local street performances. Relax at a tea house and try some of the region’s famous oolong tea.
Head to Baguashan to visit the impressive giant Buddha statue, one of the largest seated Buddha sculptures in Taiwan. Sunrise adds a magical touch to the panoramic views of Sanxing from the hilltop. Walk around the peaceful gardens and the surrounding temples.
Explore the Baguashan Sculpture Park and the nearby cultural centers that showcase local history and art. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Taiwanese cuisine. Enjoy a tranquil stroll through the bamboo groves and natural trails around the temple area.
As evening falls, attend one of the meditation or cultural events held at the temple complex. Sample some of the local vegetarian dishes often prepared in temple kitchens. Capture the illuminated Buddha statue before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🫖Tea or coffee at cafe | $2-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚆Public transportation (local one-way) | $0.50-2 |
| 🩺Clinic or basic healthcare visit | $6-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rural charm and authentic local culture
- Fresh produce, especially onions, and approachable markets
- Easy day trips to nature reserves and nearby towns
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities in Sanxing itself
- Public transport can be less frequent than in big cities
- Weather can be hot and humid in summer and variable in shoulder seasons
- "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?
- "我需要一份素食餐" - I need a vegetarian meal
Places to Visit in Sanxing
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over orderly rows of onion crops—classic rural Taiwan scenery perfect for wide-angle shots.
Weathered storefronts and daily life along Sanxing’s main lanes offer candid, textured photography opportunities.
Water reflections, boats, and silhouettes along the river make for tranquil sunset photos.
Food in Sanxing
Sanxing Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried onion slices made with Sanxing’s signature red onions, often sold as a snack at markets.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked pork with caramelized onions and soy-based sauce, a comforting staple in many households.
Rice fried with sliced onions, greens, and aromatics for a simple, flavorful meal.
Fresh seafood paired with a bright onion relish and local herbs for a bright coastal–farmer balance.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where you can taste onion snacks, fresh produce, and regional specialties short on salt and long on flavor.
A bustling night market offering a wide range of snacks, including onion-based bites and other local favorites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain polite conversation levels in markets and shops; avoid loud behavior in transit hubs.
Remove shoes when entering homes; dress modestly for temples and places of worship; modest behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Sanxing
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly expected in Taiwan. If offered for exceptional service, a small amount is appreciated but not required.
Cash is widely accepted; major credit cards are commonly accepted in towns and restaurants. Mobile payments (e.g., Apple Pay, LINE Pay, JKoPay) are increasingly common, especially in larger venues and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent showers or typhoons; carry light rain gear, stay hydrated, and plan morning activities to beat the heat.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor markets, cycling, and hiking close to town.
Mild and cooler, with occasional rain; layers recommended, especially for early mornings and hill areas.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for photography and village walks.
Sanxing at Night
Hiking in Sanxing
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Elevated forest trails through old-growth and temperate forests with scenic views; check accessibility depending on season.
Forest trail leading to multiple waterfalls; family-friendly with shaded paths.
Riverside paths suitable for easy hikes and sunset photography; part of a larger river ecosystem.
Coastal route with sea views and rocky shorelines; best during calm days for safety and photography.
Airports
How to reach Sanxing by plane.
Close to Taipei; domestic and limited international flights. Quick access by high-speed rail or longer transfer by road.
Main international gateway for the region; broad flight options and onward connections to Yilan and Sanxing by rail or car.
Regional airport with domestic flights; farther from Sanxing but convenient for travelers coming from eastern Taiwan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly families engaged in farming and small-scale crafts; strong sense of community.
Seasonal and year-round workers supporting agriculture and market commerce.
Tourists from Taipei and other regions seeking rural experiences and nature close to the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A very popular sport across Taiwan, with youth and local leagues present in the region.
Common in schools, community centers, and casual play in town squares.
A frequent pastime in community centers and cafes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanxing.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; rely on tofu, mushrooms, and plenty of vegetables. When ordering, ask for no meat stock or fish sauce and consider asking for vegetable-friendly versions of local dishes.