Things To Do
in Shoufeng

Shoufeng is a rural township located in the eastern part of Taiwan, known for its stunning natural landscapes and serene atmosphere. The area is surrounded by lush green mountains and is close to the Pacific Ocean, offering visitors a mix of both mountain and coastal experiences. Shoufeng is home to several ecological reserves, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The township also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional temples, old villages, and local delicacies waiting to be explored.

  • "Ni hao" - Hello
  • "Xie xie" - Thank you
  • "Zai jian" - Goodbye
  • "Qing" - Please
  • "Duibuqi" - Sorry

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Shoufeng's Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a hike in Taroko National Park. The picturesque trails will invigorate you with stunning views of the gorge.

afternoon
:

Visit the Shoufeng Riverside Park for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy a picnic while taking in the serene riverside atmosphere.

evening
:

Dine at a local eatery sampling traditional Taiwanese dishes. End your day with a relaxing visit to a night market.

day 2
Adventure Awaits in Nature
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the picturesque waterfalls in Taroko. Capture breathtaking photos and explore the lush surroundings.

afternoon
:

Embark on a cycling trip around Shoufeng’s scenic routes. You'll experience the tranquility and charm of the local landscape.

evening
:

Visit a nearby hot spring resort to unwind. Soak in the natural thermal waters while enjoying the mountain views.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and coastal views.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
  • Delicious local cuisine, famous for seafood and traditional dishes.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Mild climate suitable for outdoor activities.
  • Limited job opportunities compared to bigger cities.
  • Public transportation options may be less accessible.
  • Risk of natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
  • Higher cost of living in some areas.
  • Limited access to healthcare facilities compared to urban centers.

Best Activities in Shoufeng

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Taroko National Park

Explore the stunning landscapes of Taroko National Park, known for its marble cliffs, deep gorges, and scenic hiking trails. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Fongtien Beach

Relax or engage in water sports at Fongtien Beach, a beautiful coastal area perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying seaside activities.

Hiking in the Central Mountain Range

Experience breathtaking views while hiking in the nearby Central Mountain Range, with various trails for different skill levels.

Shoufeng Riverside Park

A great spot for picnics, cycling, and enjoying a leisurely walk along the river with beautiful scenery and fresh air.

Local Fruit Picking Tours

Join fruit picking tours in the surrounding orchards, where you can enjoy seasonal fruits and learn about local agriculture.

Tours

Uncover the best of Shoufeng with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Shoufeng

Visit one of these nice places.

Liyu Lake

Liyu Lake offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is a great spot for photography.

Fengzhigu Wetland Park

Fengzhigu Wetland Park provides stunning panoramic views of the wetlands and the Pacific Ocean, offering excellent photo opportunities.

Fengping Historic Trail

Fengping Historic Trail provides picturesque vistas of the surrounding nature and an insight into the area's history, making it a wonderful location for photography.

Mugumuyu Suspension Bridge

Mugumuyu Suspension Bridge offers breathtaking views of the valley and nearby waterfalls, creating ideal photo opportunities.

Food in Shoufeng

Shoufeng, Taiwan, is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine that reflects the local culture and history. With influences from indigenous tribes, Hakka and other Chinese communities, as well as Japanese colonial legacy, the food scene in Shoufeng offers a blend of unique flavors and culinary traditions.

Shoufeng Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mochi

A traditional sticky rice cake, often filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Must-try variations include red bean paste and peanut filling. Best found at Shoufeng Mochi Street.

Must-Try!

Hakka Lei Cha

A fragrant tea-based soup accompanied by a mix of ground tea leaves, nuts, and herbs, served with rice. Found at local Hakka eateries in Shoufeng such as Shanshui Village.

Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup

A hearty and flavorful noodle soup with tender beef and aromatic broth. Recommended at Shoufeng Noodle House for an authentic taste.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Shoufeng better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shoufeng Night Market

This bustling night market offers a wide array of street food stalls serving local delicacies such as oyster omelette, grilled squid, stinky tofu, and colorful shaved ice desserts.

Shoufeng Green Market

A vibrant day market where visitors can explore fresh produce, local snacks, and interact with friendly vendors. Look out for the Hakka delicacy, torched mackerel, and indigenous tribal dishes.

Weather

Located along Taiwan's eastern coast, the climate is classified as subtropical highland. Characterized by warm temperatures year-round, it typically experiences a significant amount of rainfall, especially during the monsoons. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures often rising above 30°C (86°F), while winters are milder, with temperatures averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F). The rainy season primarily occurs from May to September, coinciding with the Typhoon season, which can bring heavy downpours and strong winds. In contrast, the winter months tend to be drier. Overall, the region benefits from a lush landscape due to its favorable climate, making it a beautiful area known for its natural scenery and biodiversity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Shoufeng, as in much of Taiwan, showing respect to elders is crucial. This includes using polite language, listening attentively, and offering assistance when needed.

Politeness and Formality

Interactions in Shoufeng may often involve a level of formality. It is common to greet people with a polite bow or with a simple 'hello' ('ni hao') and to use honorific titles when addressing others.

Gift Giving

Gift giving is an important cultural norm in Shoufeng. If invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as fruit or snacks, as a sign of respect and gratitude.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Shoufeng with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this region is generally regarded as high, characterized by a low crime rate and a welcoming community atmosphere. Residents and visitors typically feel secure walking around both day and night. The local government maintains public safety through regular policing and community engagement initiatives. Natural hazards such as typhoons and earthquakes are considerations due to the area's geographical location. Therefore, preparedness measures, such as emergency kits and local alerts, are encouraged among residents. Traffic safety is also a notable aspect, with roads well-maintained but requiring caution, especially in rural areas where visibility may be limited. Overall, the sense of community and proactive safety measures contribute to a secure environment for both locals and tourists.

Tipping in Shoufeng

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Shoufeng, as in much of Taiwan, tipping is not a common practice. Most service workers do not expect tips, and service charges are often included in the bill. However, in more tourist-oriented areas or upscale establishments, leaving a small tip may be appreciated but is still not mandatory.

Payment

Payment methods in Shoufeng are diverse, with cash being widely accepted. However, electronic payment methods, such as credit cards and mobile payment apps like Line Pay and Apple Pay, are increasingly popular. Many businesses display signs indicating if they accept electronic payments. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller shops or local markets.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shoufeng.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit for blooming cherry blossoms and pleasant weather.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, but great for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

Autumn

Ideal for enjoying the brilliant fall foliage and comfortable temperatures.

Winter

Visitors can experience cool weather and even see snow in the higher elevations.

Shoufeng at Night

In this small township, nightlife is typically calm and relaxed compared to larger cities. The atmosphere often revolves around local activities in cozy settings, offering visitors and residents a chance to unwind after the sun sets. You can find quaint cafes and tea houses that stay open late, serving a variety of beverages, including traditional Taiwanese teas and local snacks. For those looking to socialize, small bars might feature live music or karaoke, creating a lively ambiance where friends gather to enjoy each other's company. Street food stalls can be present at night, providing delicious local dishes that are popular among both locals and visitors alike. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the area's serene environment and enjoy evening walks or hikes, with certain spots offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. Occasionally, cultural or community events may take place, showcasing local traditions and crafts, enhancing the charm of the township after dark. Overall, the nightlife offers a cozy and authentic experience, emphasizing local culture and community.

Hiking in Shoufeng

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hsiukuluan River Trail

A scenic trail that follows the Hsiukuluan River, offering stunning views of the river valleys and surrounding mountains.

Wuling Farm

Located in the nearby mountainous area, this spot offers a variety of trails with breathtaking views and diverse flora.

Taroko National Park

Famous for its dramatic gorges and marble cliffs, this national park offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all skill levels.

Yushan National Park

A bit farther away, but home to Taiwan's highest peak, Yushan, with various trails that lead to majestic views and rich biodiversity.

Qingshui Cliffs

An iconic coastal area with beautiful cliff views and hiking trails along the coast that provide stunning ocean vistas.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Shoufeng through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Shoufeng by plane.

Hualien Airport (HUN)

The nearest airport to Shoufeng, primarily serving domestic flights.

Taichung International Airport (RMQ)

An international airport located approximately 130 kilometers away from Shoufeng, serving various international and domestic flights.

Tainan Airport (TNN)

Located around 182 kilometers from Shoufeng, primarily serving domestic flights with limited international connections.

Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)

Situated about 225 kilometers from Shoufeng, this airport is a major hub in southern Taiwan, providing a wide range of international flights.

Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

Located approximately 240 kilometers from Shoufeng, it is Taiwan's largest and busiest airport, offering extensive international flight options.

Walkability

Walkability in communities often hinges on aspects such as infrastructure, safety, connectivity, and amenities. In Shoufeng Township, these elements come together to create a unique walking experience influenced by its rural character and proximity to nature. The area features several walkable paths and sidewalks, particularly near community centers, schools, and local markets. The streets tend to be quieter, resulting in a more relaxed walking atmosphere. The presence of parks and green spaces enhances this experience, inviting residents and visitors to stroll and enjoy the natural surroundings. Safety is an important aspect of walkability, and in Shoufeng, the low traffic volume contributes to a sense of security for pedestrians. However, as in many rural areas, some roads may not always have designated pedestrian crossings or sidewalks, which could pose challenges in certain parts of the township. Accessibility to essential services, such as convenience stores, cafés, and public transportation, is generally within walking distance, promoting an environment where residents can get by without relying heavily on vehicles. Seasonal events and local markets also encourage foot traffic, making walking a practical and enjoyable way to engage with the community. Overall, while there are areas that are very walkable, certain improvements in pedestrian infrastructure could further enhance the walking experience in Shoufeng.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Shoufeng, typically involved in agriculture and various local businesses.

Indigenous Peoples

Includes various tribes such as the Amis and Atayal, known for their unique cultures and traditions.

Taiwanese Aborigines

A subgroup of Indigenous Peoples with distinct languages and customs, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Migrants

People from other parts of Taiwan or abroad seeking employment opportunities, contributing to the local economy.

Senior Citizens

Older adults who are part of the demographic landscape, often involved in community activities or family support.

The Soul of Shoufeng

Discover the essence of Shoufeng through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Taiwan, with many local teams and youth leagues contributing to its popularity.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a large following, with youth leagues and community courts available for practice and competition.

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is commonly practiced for its health benefits and is popular among both locals and visitors as a form of exercise and meditation.

Soccer

Soccer is growing in popularity, particularly among the younger generation, with schools and local clubs facilitating the sport.

Cycling

Cycling is popular due to the scenic routes available around Shoufeng, making it a favored activity for both leisure and sport.

Traffic

The traffic in this small township is relatively light compared to larger urban areas in Taiwan. The roads primarily cater to local residents, agricultural vehicles, and tourists visiting nearby attractions. Main thoroughfares experience modest congestion during peak hours, particularly when school starts and ends, as many students commute. The flow of vehicles is typically smooth, but two-lane roads mean that slower-moving vehicles can occasionally cause brief delays. Public transportation options are available, including buses that connect to neighboring towns and cities, but many locals rely on scooters and bicycles for short trips. Pedestrian-friendly areas are present, especially around local markets and scenic spots, promoting a leisurely pace of life. Overall, while traffic exists, it generally remains manageable, contributing to the charm of this rural locale.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shoufeng.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many local eateries offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, especially those serving Hakka cuisine. Additionally, cafes and noodle houses are accommodating to dietary preferences, with options like mixed grain salads and vegetable-based noodle soups.

Gluten-Free Considerations

While traditional Taiwanese cuisine heavily features soy sauce and wheat-based products, it's possible to find gluten-free alternatives in Shoufeng by communicating dietary needs to the chefs. Opt for rice-based dishes and inquire about ingredients when dining out.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Shoufeng with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Located along the east coast of Taiwan, the healthcare system in this region is influenced by both the local infrastructure and the national health policies of Taiwan. The government provides a comprehensive National Health Insurance (NHI) program, ensuring that residents have access to a wide range of medical services, from primary care to specialized treatments. Local clinics and larger hospitals serve the population, with healthcare facilities typically offering services such as general medicine, pediatrics, gynecology, and emergency care. Many healthcare providers are well-trained, and the standard of care is generally high. In addition to traditional medical services, there is also a growing emphasis on preventive care and health promotion, with various public health initiatives aimed at improving community health outcomes. This includes vaccination programs, health education campaigns, and screenings for common diseases. Access to healthcare can vary, especially for those living in more rural or remote areas, but overall, the combination of national health policies and local services contributes to a relatively effective healthcare system.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2024 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide