whatdo

Things To Do
in Toufen

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Toufen is a charming town located in northern Taiwan, known for its traditional architecture and quaint streets. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, including rice paddies and mountains, creating a serene atmosphere. Toufen is also famous for its delicious street food, offering a variety of local specialties to delight visitors.

Rich in history and culture, Toufen is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by those seeking a peaceful getaway in Taiwan.

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Magical Fireflies Tour

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

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Nature Escape in Toufen
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Toufen Riverside Park. Enjoy a refreshing walk along the river and take in the natural beauty around you.

afternoon
:

Head over to the local market for lunch and explore the variety of street food options available. Afterward, visit the nearby ancient temples to soak in some culture.

evening
:

Wrap up your day at a local café with a view of the sunset. Indulge in some Taiwanese pastries as you wind down.

day 2
Cultural Discovery in Toufen
morning
:

Explore the history of Toufen by visiting the Zhanghua Temple. The intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a great start to your day.

afternoon
:

Visit local art galleries and craft shops to admire the talent of local artists. This is a perfect spot to pick up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine in a traditional restaurant to enjoy a true Taiwanese meal. After dinner, take a stroll through the bustling night market to experience local nightlife.

Toufen Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
  • Friendly and hospitable local community.
  • Access to delicious local cuisine and traditional markets.
  • Growing tourism industry with various attractions.
  • Limited public transportation options within the city.
  • Potential for natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
  • Job opportunities may be limited compared to larger cities in Taiwan.
  • Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as those in urban areas.
  • Humidity and heat during summer months can be uncomfortable.

Best Activities in Toufen

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Leisurely walk in Xiangshan Wetland

Enjoy a peaceful stroll surrounded by lush vegetation and serene wetland scenery.

Exploring Zhongming Park

Visit the park for leisure activities, green spaces, and beautiful views of the surroundings.

Cycling along Yixing Bikeway

Take a scenic bike ride along the Yixing Bikeway for a fun and active outdoor adventure.

Places to Visit in Toufen

Visit one of these nice places.

Dahu Park

A beautiful lakeside park with picturesque views of nature and the surrounding area, offering great photo opportunities.

Tai-an Waterfall

A stunning natural waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, providing a perfect backdrop for photography.

Mingchien Mountain

A popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts, featuring breathtaking panoramic views of the region from the summit.

Food in Toufen

Toufen, Taiwan offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Taiwanese cuisine with international influences. Food enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of local dishes, explore bustling food markets, and savor delicious meals at charming restaurants and cafes. Navigating dietary restrictions is also possible, with options available for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

Toufen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Luwei

A popular dish featuring assorted ingredients such as tofu, seaweed, and meat, marinated in a flavorful soy-based sauce. Recommended place to try: Toufen Night Market.

Must-Try!

Oyster Omelette

A beloved Taiwanese street food consisting of oysters, eggs, and a starchy batter, pan-fried to perfection. Recommended place to try: Local street vendors near Toufen Old Street.

Bawan

A hearty glutinous rice dumpling filled with seasoned pork and bamboo shoots, accompanied by special sweet and savory sauces. Recommended place to try: Various food stalls in Toufen Old Street area.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Toufen Night Market

This vibrant night market is a treasure trove of delectable street food, local snacks, and refreshing beverages. Visitors can sample a wide array of dishes such as stinky tofu, grilled skewers, and bubble tea.

Toufen Old Street

A historic area offering traditional Taiwanese street food and snacks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic local food scene. Must-try items include scallion pancakes, mochi, and braised pork rice.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as humid subtropical, featuring a hot and humid summer and a mild winter. Average temperatures typically range from around 15°C (59°F) in the winter months to above 30°C (86°F) during the summer. Rainfall is abundant, especially in the rainy season, which usually peaks in May and June during the monsoon period. Typhoons can also affect the area, primarily from June to October, bringing heavy rains and strong winds. The dry season generally occurs in the late autumn and winter months. Humidity levels are quite high throughout the year, contributing to a lush environment with diverse vegetation. Overall, the climate supports a rich agricultural landscape, making it suitable for growing a variety of crops.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Toufen, Taiwan, it is important to show respect to elders by using polite language and showing deference to their opinions and decisions.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Toufen, Taiwan. It is considered respectful to arrive on time for meetings, events, and social gatherings.

Etiquette in Temples

When visiting temples in Toufen, it is important to observe proper etiquette, such as removing your shoes before entering, dressing modestly, and refraining from loud behavior.

Safety

Safety in this region is generally considered to be good, with low crime rates and a community-oriented environment. The streets are often bustling with local markets, shops, and eateries, creating a vibrant atmosphere. As in many areas, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded places, so typical precautions are recommended. The local government has implemented various measures to ensure public safety, including street lighting and surveillance in busy areas. Natural disasters, such as typhoons and earthquakes, are considerations in Taiwan. The area has protocols in place for such events, and residents are accustomed to preparedness drills. Overall, it's advisable to stay informed about local regulations and safety practices while enjoying the cultural and natural offerings of the area. Engaging with locals can offer additional insights into maintaining safety while exploring.

Tipping in Toufen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is generally not expected in Toufen, Taiwan. It is not a common practice in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries.

Payment

Cash is widely used for small transactions in Toufen, Taiwan. Credit cards are also becoming more common, especially in larger establishments. Mobile payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also increasingly accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to visit for cherry blossoms and comfortable weather.

Summer

Hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. Popular time for beach activities.

Autumn

Mild weather, clear skies, and beautiful foliage. Ideal for outdoor activities.

Winter

Cool and dry, with occasional fog and mist. Great for exploring the local attractions and enjoying hot springs.

Toufen at Night

When the sun sets in Toufen, a lively and diverse nightlife scene comes to life, offering a variety of activities to suit different tastes and preferences. For those who enjoy dining out, the city boasts an array of night markets where you can savor delicious street food, local delicacies, and refreshing beverages. These bustling markets not only offer a culinary adventure but also a chance to experience the local culture and vibe up close. Bars and pubs in Toufen provide a cozy atmosphere for socializing, with many places featuring live music, karaoke, or DJs spinning tunes to keep the energy high. Whether you prefer a chill night sipping cocktails or an upbeat evening on the dance floor, there’s a venue to match your mood. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more relaxed, Toufen's teahouses and cafes offer a quieter setting to unwind with friends or a good book. Additionally, the city's cinemas and late-night eateries make it easy to extend your evening out with a movie or a late snack. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are parks and public spaces where locals often gather in the evenings for casual strolls or group exercises. In summary, the nightlife in Toufen is vibrant and varied, catering to a wide range of interests and ensuring there’s always something to do after dark.

Hiking in Toufen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Xue Mountain

A popular hiking destination known for its stunning views and challenging trails, ideal for experienced hikers.

Sijhih Mountain

A scenic area with relatively easy trails, suitable for families and casual hikers, offering beautiful vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Hushan Trail

A well-maintained hiking trail that winds through lush forests and provides a great opportunity for birdwatching.

Shintan Waterfall Trail

A short and accessible hike leading to a picturesque waterfall, perfect for a quick outdoor adventure.

Dahu Scenic Area

Features several hiking trails with bamboo forests, tea plantations, and scenic lakes, ideal for casual hikes and family outings.

Aiports

How to reach Toufen by plane.

Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

The main international airport serving the Taipei area, located approximately 70 kilometers north of Toufen.

Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)

The second-largest international airport in Taiwan, located about 130 kilometers southwest of Toufen.

Taichung International Airport (RMQ)

An international airport located around 50 kilometers west of Toufen, serving the central Taiwan region.

Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA)

An airport located in the heart of Taipei, about 60 kilometers north of Toufen, mainly serving domestic and regional flights.

Walkability

Walkability in the area features a mix of urban and suburban elements, with several key factors influencing how pedestrians navigate the streets. Sidewalks in many parts are commonly present, though their quality and maintenance can vary. Some neighborhoods offer pedestrian-friendly environments, with local amenities like markets, shops, and parks within a reasonable walking distance. Traffic conditions and road design impact walkability significantly, as certain intersections may lack adequate pedestrian crossings or signals, making it challenging for walkers to navigate safely. Public transportation options are available, but having access to private vehicles is often more common, which can affect the overall pedestrian experience. Community development efforts and urban planning initiatives have aimed at improving walkability, with future projects likely focusing on enhancing sidewalks, creating pedestrian zones, and increasing green spaces. Overall, while certain areas may offer good conditions for walking, there are still challenges that need to be addressed to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority demographic group in Toufen, comprising various sub-groups such as Holo and Hakka.

Aboriginal Peoples

Indigenous groups representing a smaller percentage of the population.

Foreign Workers

A significant number of foreign workers, mainly from Southeast Asia, contributing to the local economy.

Intermarried Families

Families resulting from marriages between locals and foreigners, reflecting cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A widely played sport in Toufen, basketball has a strong following with local leagues and school teams participating in various competitions.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Taiwan overall, and Toufen is no exception, with local teams and youth leagues fostering talent from a young age.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys growing popularity in Toufen, with local teams and schools promoting the sport and encouraging participation among youth.

Badminton

Badminton is a favored pastime in Toufen, with both casual players and competitive tournaments contributing to its popularity.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is commonly played in schools and clubs in Toufen, known for its fast-paced nature and competitive spirit.

Traffic

Traffic in this city is characterized by a mixture of bustling urban roads and smaller local streets. The infrastructure includes a network of major thoroughfares that connect to nearby towns and cities, facilitating both local commuting and longer-distance travel. Bicycles and scooters are common modes of transportation, often weaving through traffic. During peak hours, congestion can become significant, particularly around commercial areas and schools, as the local population commutes to work or school. Public transportation options, including buses, provide alternatives to driving, but many residents prefer personal vehicles for convenience. Pedestrian safety is a concern, as busy intersections can be challenging to navigate. Efforts to improve walkability and implement traffic calming measures have been noted in recent urban planning initiatives. Overall, the traffic situation reflects a blend of traditional and modern travel habits, typical of many growing urban areas in Taiwan.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Toufen.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Several eateries in Toufen provide vegetarian and vegan choices, including tofu-based dishes, vegetable stir-fries, and flavorful noodle soups. Additionally, some restaurants are accommodating and can customize meals to suit dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free awareness is growing in Toufen, it's advisable for individuals with gluten intolerances to communicate their dietary needs clearly when dining out. Some venues offer rice-based dishes, fresh seafood, and vegetable-centric options suitable for gluten-free diets.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the region is characterized by the availability of various medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers. The healthcare system in Taiwan operates under a single-payer National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme, which provides comprehensive coverage to residents, including access to medical services, hospitalizations, and prescription medications. In this setting, residents can access primary care through local clinics and community health centers. These facilities are often the first point of contact for patients seeking medical attention. Larger hospitals in the area offer more specialized services, including emergency care, surgeries, and advanced treatments. Healthcare providers are generally well-trained, and Taiwan is known for its advanced medical technology and effective public health policies. Preventive care is emphasized, and programs are in place to promote health education and vaccinations. Access to healthcare is relatively convenient due to the widespread network of facilities, and services are typically affordable due to the support provided by the NHI. However, like in many places, challenges such as overcrowding in hospitals and the need for continuous quality improvements exist. Overall, the healthcare system supports the health and well-being of the population, reflecting Taiwan's commitment to providing accessible and high-quality medical care to its residents.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2024 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide