Things To Do
in Tongxiao
Tongxiao is a coastal town in Miaoli County along the Taiwan Strait, offering a laid-back seascape with working harbors and temple streets. It is renowned for its Mazu temple and a thriving seafood scene that draws visitors from nearby cities. The town blends traditional temples with maritime charm, markets, and easygoing rural scenery.
Its affordable lodging and proximity to Taichung and Hsinchu make it a convenient base for exploring west coast Taiwan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a visit to the historic Tongxiao Temples. Marvel at their intricate architecture as you learn about the local spiritual practices. Participate in a morning prayer session to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture.
Savor a delicious lunch at a nearby local eatery, trying traditional Taiwanese dishes. After lunch, visit the Tongxiao Township Museum to gain insights about the town's rich history. Engage with friendly locals who can offer personal stories about the area.
As the sun sets, stroll through the night market where you can taste various street foods. Enjoy games and activities that make the night market a lively place to be. Conclude your evening with a calming tea session at a traditional tea house.
Begin the day with a refreshing walk through the picturesque Jiji Wetlands. Enjoy the serenity of the wetlands as you take in the sights and sounds of various bird species. Capture stunning photographs of the beautiful landscape and wildlife.
Have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, enjoying fresh local produce. Later, rent a bicycle and explore the nearby paths that connect to scenic viewpoints. Take your time to soak in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Return to Tongxiao for a quiet evening at a local cafe, sipping on freshly brewed coffee. Reflect on the day's adventures and chat with fellow travelers about their experiences. Wind down by enjoying a leisurely walk along the riverside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🫓Street food snack | $1-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at café | $2-5 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one ride) | $0.70-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal vibe
- Fresh seafood and markets
- Easy access from major cities
- Affordable accommodations
- Limited nightlife
- Smaller transport connections to the rest of Taiwan
- Some areas feel tourist-light
- Weather can disrupt outdoor plans during typhoon season
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問這個多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "你會說英文嗎？" - Do you speak English?
- "洗手間在哪裡？" - Where is the restroom?
- "我想要這個" - I would like this
Places to Visit in Tongxiao
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful temple complex facing the harbor, ideal for sunrise or dusk photography with lanterns and incense.
Long sandy shoreline with fishermen and nets; great for golden hour coastal shots.
Boats, nets and lanterns in warm evening light.
Candid street scenes of vendors, boats and local life.
Food in Tongxiao
Tongxiao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Taiwanese street favorite featuring plump oysters folded into a savory batter with eggs and starch, best at coast-side stalls in Tongxiao.
Must-Try!
Seasonal catches like fish, shrimp, and clams grilled with garlic and herbs at harborside eateries.
Fish baked in salt with aromatic herbs, commonly found in seaside restaurants near Tongxiao Beach.
Comfort staple widely available in eateries around Tongxiao.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market cluster along the coast with seafood stalls, snacks, and casual eateries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove hats as you enter temples, speak softly, and ask permission before photographing people or interiors.
Queue respectfully, avoid loud conversations in public spaces, and show appreciation with a thank you.
Safety
Tipping in Tongxiao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, but small tips are appreciated for exceptional service.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards common in many shops; EasyCard or iPass are widely used for transit and some retailers; mobile payments are growing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid and susceptible to typhoons. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan beach days for early morning or late afternoon.
Milder temperatures and clearer skies; comfortable for outdoor exploration and photography.
Mild and occasionally rainy; layered clothing is sufficient; seafood remains fresh.
Pleasant temperatures with breezy days; great for coastal walks and markets.
Tongxiao at Night
Hiking in Tongxiao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, scenic coastal path ideal for sunset photography and easy hikes.
Moderate forested trail with ocean views within a short drive from Tongxiao.
A longer loop along coastal hills offering sea panoramas and nature stops.
Airports
How to reach Tongxiao by plane.
Major international gateway about 60-90 minutes by highway and rail to the Miaoli region.
Regional airport serving domestic and some international flights; roughly 60-90 minutes by road from Tongxiao.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Taiwanese with Hokkien and Hakka communities, fishing families, and farmers; a growing number of younger residents and migrant workers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is widely loved in Taiwan and local parks host informal games.
Popular as a community sport with courts across towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tongxiao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find tofu and vegetable dishes at most eateries; ask for no meat stock and avoid seafood-based broths.