Things To Do
in Xinyuan
Xinyuan is a quiet, agricultural town in northern Taiwan set among rolling hills and rice fields. It blends traditional rural life with easy access to Taoyuan's amenities and Taipei's urban centers. Visitors can taste home-style Taiwanese dishes, explore local temples, and experience seasonal markets.
The area offers a calm pace, scenic viewpoints, and friendly locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the majestic Taroko Gorge, where towering cliffs and lush greenery greet you at every turn. As the sun rises, the vibrant colors of the landscape are simply breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photography. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Eternal Spring Shrine for a moment of tranquility.
Indulge in a picnic at the park at Taroko National Park after a morning of exploration. This afternoon is best spent savoring local delicacies and enjoying the sounds of nature surrounding you. A leisurely walk along the Liwu River will help you absorb the park's majestic beauty.
Return to Xinyuan and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a traditional Taiwanese eatery. Try some local specialties, such as beef noodle soup or stinky tofu, while mingling with locals. End the evening with a stroll through the night markets, where vibrant lights and enticing aromas captivate your senses.
Begin your morning by visiting the historic Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park, where you can admire local arts and crafts. Treat your senses to the unique architectural designs and vibrant artworks that tell the story of Taiwan's rich culture. Engage with local artisans as they share their craft techniques and artistic inspirations.
Spend your afternoon at a local tea plantation, learning about the intricate tea-making process and sampling a variety of teas. Enjoy the serene surroundings while sipping refreshing oolong or green tea, surrounded by lush tea fields. A guided tour will deepen your understanding of Taiwan's tea culture and heritage.
Savor the flavors of traditional Taiwanese cuisine at a nearby restaurant for dinner. A visit to the night market will conclude your day with a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and tastes. Join locals as you taste various street foods and shop for handmade souvenirs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $22-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way public transit fare | $0.5-2 |
| 🛍️Snack or groceries (per day) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and safe environment
- Excellent street food and markets
- Close proximity to Taipei and Taoyuan
- Quiet scenery with easy day trips
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Smaller selection of international cuisines
- Some areas may require transport to reach hills or beaches
- "你好" - Hello
- "謝謝" - Thank you
- "請問洗手間在哪裡？" - Where is the restroom?
- "這個多少錢？" - How much is this?
- "你會說英語嗎？" - Do you speak English?
- "我要這個" - I would like this
- "對不起" - Sorry/Excuse me
- "是/不是" - Yes/No
Places to Visit in Xinyuan
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic temple with ornate carvings and lantern-lined corridors ideal for morning light.
Panoramic view of rice fields and distant mountains, especially stunning at sunset.
Quiet riverside stretch with reflections and seasonal flora.
Terraced fields that catch the soft evening light, perfect for landscape shots.
Food in Xinyuan
Xinyuan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Braised pork over rice, a comforting classic found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
A savory omelette with fresh oysters and a starchy batter, common at night markets.
Pillowy steamed bun filled with braised pork and pickled vegetables.
Fragrant chicken simmered in sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, herbs, and simple prepared snacks.
Casual stalls offering Taiwanese staples, noodles, and fried bites after sunset.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or handshake; address elders with respectful terms; avoid raising your voice in temples.
Keep shoulders and knees covered; remove hats when entering religious spaces; do not point with feet.
Safety
Tipping in Xinyuan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; a 10% service charge may be included in larger establishments.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards common at larger shops; mobile payments (Apple Pay, LINE Pay) and EasyCard are popular for transit and some stores.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms; stay hydrated and carry a light rain jacket.
Mild days and crisp evenings; great for outdoor activities and photography.
Cool to mild with occasional chilly mornings; fog in valleys can add atmosphere to photos.
Pleasant temperatures with blooming flowers and lush greenery; ideal for walks and markets.
Xinyuan at Night
Hiking in Xinyuan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate ascent with forest shade and viewpoints over the valley.
Easy to moderate stroll along the river with opportunities to spot birds and water wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Xinyuan by plane.
Main international gateway; connections to domestic routes and international destinations; accessible by train, bus, or taxi.
Smaller airport serving regional and domestic flights; convenient for short hops from the capital region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families populate the town center with a mix of traditional and modern lifestyles.
Active agricultural community with farming activities in surrounding fields.
Commuters who travel to nearby cities for work; growing presence of digital nomads in some neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Taiwan; expect community leagues and friendly local games.
Common in schools and parks; casual pick-up games are frequent in city centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xinyuan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Taiwanese vegetarian options are common; look for tofu dishes, vegetable combos, and ask for no meat stock; request clear broth and check for fish sauce in soups.