Things To Do
in Zhubei
Zhubei is the rapidly growing county seat of Hsinchu County, sitting just north of Hsinchu City and serving as a residential and tech-worker hub for the nearby Hsinchu Science Park. The city combines modern high-rise developments and shopping centers with quieter riverside parks, bike paths and pockets of Hakka culture. Its transport links — including the Hsinchu HSR station — make Zhubei a convenient base for exploring northwest Taiwan.
Expect a practical, family-friendly city atmosphere rather than a tourist-focused destination, which makes it ideal for short stays and day trips into the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Zhubei City Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Stroll through the nearby Zhongzheng Park, enjoying the serene atmosphere and lush greenery. As you walk, take in the local architecture and the vibrant art installations that adorn the park.
Head to the bustling Zhubei Night Market for lunch, where you can sample a variety of local delicacies such as stinky tofu and bubble tea. Afterward, explore the nearby Huashan 1914 Creative Park, a vibrant space filled with art studios, boutiques, and cafes. Spend time browsing local handicrafts and perhaps even participate in a workshop for a hands-on experience.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a popular local restaurant specializing in Taiwanese cuisine, indulging in dishes like beef noodle soup or braised pork rice. After your meal, take a stroll along the scenic Hsinchu River, where you can watch the city lights reflect off the water. End your evening with a visit to a local tea house, savoring traditional Taiwanese tea while enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
Begin your day with an early morning hike at the nearby Lion's Head Mountain, where you can marvel at the stunning views and lush landscapes. As you ascend, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, including various bird species and butterflies. The morning light creates a magical atmosphere as you explore the temples and shrines nestled among the cliffs.
After descending, head to the nearby Xinfeng River Wetland Park, a peaceful area perfect for birdwatching and relaxing by the water. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy while observing the various migratory birds that frequent the wetlands, creating a picturesque setting. You can also rent a bicycle to explore the scenic bike paths that wind through the park.
Return to Zhubei and unwind at a local hot spring resort, where you can soak in the healing waters while surrounded by nature. Enjoy a traditional Taiwanese dinner at a nearby restaurant, sampling seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Zhubei, soaking in the local nightlife and culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee (cafe) | $2.50-4 |
| 🚌Local bus ride / MRT equivalent | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Taxi (start / short trip) | $3-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Very convenient transport links (HSR station in Zhubei) for exploring northern Taiwan.
- Modern amenities, malls and growing cafe culture with good access to parks and cycling paths.
- Close to Hakka cultural sites and nearby scenic hiking spots and day-trip destinations.
- Generally safe, clean and family-friendly environment.
- Less tourist infrastructure and fewer signature attractions within the city itself compared with nearby Hsinchu City or Taipei.
- Hot, humid summers and typhoon season can disrupt travel plans.
- Rush-hour traffic congestion from commuters heading to Hsinchu Science Park.
- Limited late-night entertainment options directly in Zhubei for those seeking vibrant nightlife.
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "謝謝 (Xièxie)" - Thank you
- "請問，廁所在哪裡？ (Qǐngwèn, cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
- "多少錢？ (Duōshao qián?)" - How much is it?
- "我吃素 (Wǒ chī sù)" - I'm vegetarian
- "對不起 (Duìbuqǐ)" - Sorry / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Zhubei
Visit one of these nice places.
Long bike paths, bridges and open river views provide great golden-hour shots of cyclists, river reflections, and skyline silhouettes.
Modern architecture and lines make for strong architectural photography; also convenient for travel shots with trains and commuters.
Close to Hsinchu/ Zhubei, offers hiking trails, forested scenery and panoramic city views — good for landscape and sunrise/sunset photos.
Colorful neon, food stalls and crowds make for lively street photography and candid shots of local life after dark.
Temple architecture, ornate details and traditional street scenes are a short trip away and great for cultural photography.
Food in Zhubei
Zhubei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thin wheat/rice noodles often served in a light broth or stir-fried; look for local noodle shops and night market stalls serving this regional staple.
Must-Try!
Springy pork meatballs famous in Hsinchu County, commonly found in soups or as a snack at markets and small restaurants.
Traditional Hakka dishes — savory, often hearty — and the herbal tea-based Lei Cha are available at local Hakka restaurants in and around Zhubei.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main local night market with a rotating selection of Taiwanese street-food staples: grilled skewers, oyster omelette, stinky tofu, bubble tea and local sweet treats.
Seasonal or weekend food stalls and pop-ups near riverside parks offering snacks, coffee and desserts — great for casual bites while cycling or walking.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show deference to older people, offer seats to seniors on public transport and use polite language where appropriate.
In private homes and some traditional guesthouses, removing shoes upon entry is expected.
Taiwanese value orderly queues and low-key demeanor in public; avoid loud or disruptive behavior.
Avoid pointing with chopsticks or leaving them stuck upright in a bowl of rice — these gestures have negative connotations.
Safety
Tipping in Zhubei
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan and often unnecessary. Restaurants typically do not expect tips; some higher-end places may include a service charge (10–15%). Taxi drivers do not expect tips — rounding up is fine.
Cash (NT$) is still widely used for markets and small vendors; contactless payments, credit cards and mobile wallets (LINE Pay, Apple Pay) are increasingly accepted. Use an EasyCard or iPASS for public transport and many convenience store purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures (15–24°C / 59–75°F), occasional showers; good time for cycling and hikes as humidity is moderate and flowers bloom in nearby hills.
Hot and humid (25–35°C / 77–95°F) with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the occasional typhoon; stay hydrated, plan indoor backups and check typhoon forecasts.
Generally pleasant (20–28°C / 68–82°F) with clearer skies and lower humidity — one of the best times for outdoor activities and photography.
Cooler and damp (10–18°C / 50–64°F); rarely freezing in Zhubei itself but bring a light jacket and expect more rainy days.
Zhubei at Night
Hiking in Zhubei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Close to Hsinchu and popular for easy-to-moderate trails, city views and shaded paths; suitable for families and sunrise hikes.
A moderate hike with temples and scenic overlooks; located in nearby Miaoli County and good for day trips from Zhubei.
Rolling rural trails around Hakka villages offer cultural stops, tea farms and gentler hiking routes with local flavor.
Airports
How to reach Zhubei by plane.
The main international gateway to Taiwan; about 45–75 minutes by car depending on traffic, or reachable by bus and HSR connections.
Closer to central Taipei and convenient for some domestic and short international flights; typically 60–90 minutes by car from Zhubei.
A small airport near Hsinchu used mainly for general aviation and some charter flights; limited commercial service but close in proximity.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population includes Hoklo/Taiwanese speakers and Mandarin-speaking residents working in local industries.
Hsinchu County has a significant Hakka population; Hakka culture, festivals and cuisine are visible around Zhubei and nearby towns.
A notable population of tech professionals and international residents associated with the Hsinchu Science Park, contributing to a diverse urban community.
Migrant workers and their communities provide cultural diversity and are an important part of the local workforce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is very popular across Taiwan; local fans follow professional and amateur games and community fields are common.
A favorite pickup sport among youth and adults, with courts in parks and school facilities.
Cycling for leisure and commuting is widespread thanks to riverside bike paths and bike-friendly infrastructure.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhubei.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available at Buddhist-style eateries, many night market stalls and modern cafes; say '我吃素 (wǒ chī sù)' to indicate vegetarian. Verify dishes for fish sauce or meat broths.
Vegan-specific choices are fewer but growing in larger cafes and some restaurants; always specify allergies and avoid dishes with '肉湯' (meat broth) or '蝦' (shrimp). Carry a translation card for severe allergies.