Things To Do
in Shuilin
Shuilin is a picturesque mountain village located in the central region of Taiwan. It is known for its lush green landscapes, serene surroundings, and traditional Hakka culture. Visitors can explore historic Hakka houses, enjoy scenic hikes in the surrounding mountains, and sample local Hakka cuisine.
Shuilin offers a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city life, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Qing" - Please
- "Duibuqi" - Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Shuilin Waterfall. Enjoy the picturesque views and take some great photos.
After lunch, head to the nearby Tianzhong Mountain for a relaxing hike. The trails offer breathtaking landscapes and fresh air.
Wind down your day with a local dinner at a nearby restaurant. Try the delicious Taiwanese comfort food.
Kick off your morning with a nature walk in the surrounding parks. The morning dew and chirping birds will invigorate your spirit.
Spend your afternoon at the Shuilin Lake, where you can paddleboat or simply relax by the water. This is a perfect spot for picnics.
Return to town and enjoy street food at the night market. The vibrant atmosphere will surely delight your senses.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions
- Scenic countryside with beautiful landscapes
- Strong sense of community and local festivals
- Delicious local cuisine and street food
- Proximity to natural attractions such as rivers and mountains
- Limited public transportation options
- Small size may lead to fewer job opportunities
- Vulnerability to natural disasters like typhoons
- Some areas may lack modern amenities
- Seasonal weather can impact outdoor activities
Best Activities in Shuilin
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural landscapes and scenic trails in Shuilin, including the Luming Temple Trail and Baolai Trail.
Enjoy an adventurous experience of river tracing in the stunning rivers and streams of Shuilin, such as the Jukui River and Wenshan River.
Discover the charming countryside and picturesque views of Shuilin by cycling through the peaceful roads and pathways.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shuilin with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shuilin
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for photography.
Provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a great place for photos.
Located on a hilltop and provides beautiful views of Sun Moon Lake and the surrounding area.
Food in Shuilin
Shuilin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty and healthy Hakka tea-based soup served with rice and a variety of herbs, nuts, and seeds. Found at Laiji Tea House and other traditional Hakka restaurants.
Must-Try!
A local specialty dessert featuring sweet tofu pudding topped with ginger syrup and tapioca pearls. Available at street stalls like Ah Gan Tofu Pudding.
A flavorful three-cup chicken dish cooked with soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine. Best enjoyed at local eateries such as Shuilin Three-Cup Chicken.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shuilin better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering an array of local street food delights such as oyster omelets, grilled squid, and stinky tofu. Perfect for an authentic culinary adventure.
A hub for fresh produce and local delicacies, featuring everything from Hakka snacks to organic fruits and vegetables. A great place to taste the freshest ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shuilin, Taiwan, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and deferential actions.
When giving gifts in Shuilin, it is customary to present the gift with both hands as a sign of respect.
It is polite in Shuilin to wait for the host to begin eating before starting a meal, and to express gratitude for the food and hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shuilin with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shuilin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Taiwan, including Shuilin. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. In fact, some establishments may refuse tips, considering it impolite or inappropriate. Service charges are often included in the bill, so it's important to check before leaving a tip.
In Shuilin, as in the rest of Taiwan, cash is widely used for transactions. However, major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are becoming increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's always advisable to carry some cash, particularly for small businesses or in rural areas where card payment may not be available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shuilin.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Shuilin, Taiwan is during spring, from March to May, when the weather is mild and comfortable. The beautiful cherry blossoms and other flowers are in full bloom, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer, from June to August, brings warm and humid weather to Shuilin. This is a good time for exploring the surrounding nature and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and swimming in the area's natural pools and waterfalls.
Autumn, from September to November, offers pleasant weather and the stunning colors of the fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking, photography, and exploring the countryside.
Winter, from December to February, brings cooler temperatures to Shuilin. While the weather may be chilly, it's still a good time to visit and experience the local culture and festivals, as well as enjoy the hot springs in the area.
Shuilin at Night
Hiking in Shuilin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers a moderate hike with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and forest.
While not a traditional hiking spot, this park features walking trails and paths alongside the river with lovely views.
A tranquil forest trail that takes you through lush greenery and offers a peaceful hiking experience.
Known for its stunning natural beauty, this area features various trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
Located a bit further away, this trail offers incredible views of the mountains and diverse flora, ideal for experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shuilin through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shuilin by plane.
The largest international airport in southern Taiwan, located approximately 40 kilometers from Shuilin. It serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Located around 50 kilometers from Shuilin, Tainan Airport offers limited international flights and serves primarily domestic routes.
Approximately 70 kilometers north of Shuilin, this airport serves both domestic and select international destinations.
The main international gateway to Taiwan, located about 150 kilometers north of Shuilin, offering numerous international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Shuilin, comprising a significant portion of the local population.
Indigenous groups in Taiwan, though smaller in number in Shuilin compared to Taiwanese Han.
Individuals from other countries, including Southeast Asia, often working in various sectors.
The Soul of Shuilin
Discover the essence of Shuilin through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is widely played in Shuilin, with many local schools and communities having their own teams and courts for recreational play.
Baseball has a strong following in Taiwan, including Shuilin, where both amateur and youth leagues are popular.
Soccer is a growing sport in Shuilin, with various clubs and schools participating in local tournaments.
Table tennis is a popular recreational sport in Shuilin, often played in community centers and schools.
Track and field events are commonly held in schools and during local festivals, promoting fitness and competition among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shuilin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Shuilin is known for its meat-centric dishes, many restaurants and street vendors offer vegetarian options like stir-fried vegetables, tofu-based dishes, and fresh fruit snacks. Look out for 'su-shi', signifying vegetarian fare.
Those with gluten sensitivities can opt for rice-based dishes such as Hakka Lei Cha and traditional steamed buns made from glutinous rice flour. Some eateries also offer rice noodles and rice porridge.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shuilin with these cultural adventures.