Miaoli
Hakka heritage, nostalgic lanes, and serene mountain scenery in rural Miaoli
miaoli at a Glance
Everything you need to know before you go.
Miaoli, part of the Taozhumiao region, is a quiet county rich in Hakka culture and rural charm. Explore Nanzhuang Old Street with its Japanese-era wooden buildings and sample local snacks like mochi and lei cha, followed by a traditional Hakka meal of stir-fry, stuffed tofu, and salted pork. For a nature escape, hike around Xiangtian Lake surrounded by cedar trees or visit Lion's Head Mountain.
Where to Stay
Choose the neighborhood that fits your style.
Nanzhuang Old Street
Wander nostalgic streets lined with Japanese-era wooden buildings, try Hakka snacks like mochi and lei cha, and enjoy a traditional Hakka lunch of stir-fry, stuffed tofu, and salted pork.
Best for Hakka culture and street foodXiangtian Lake / Shitoushan
If time allows, hike the easy trail around the scenic lake surrounded by cedar trees, or explore the nearby Lion's Head Mountain for more outdoor adventure.
Best for scenic nature walksmiaoli Highlights
The city's essential experiences, grouped by what you love most.
Wander the nostalgic street lined with Japanese-era wooden buildings.
Try Hakka snacks like mochi and lei cha along the old street.
Try traditional Hakka stir-fry, stuffed tofu, and salted pork.
Take a train to Zhunan Station, then catch Taiwan Tourist Shuttle or local bus to Nanzhuang.
If time allows, hike the easy trail around the scenic lake surrounded by cedar trees, or visit the nearby Lion's Head Mountain.
Bus back to Zhunan, then express train to Taipei Main Station.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers a different side of the city.
Spring · Mar–May
Mild weather and blooming landscapes — comfortable for exploring.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Warm days; highland areas stay cool while lowland cities get hot and humid.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
The best season in most of China — crisp air, clear skies, and golden light.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cold in the north, mild in the south. Fewer crowds and lower prices outside holidays.
Suggested Itineraries
Three carefully-paced plans for your trip.
1-Day Express
Take a morning train from Hsinchu to Zhunan, then transfer to a local bus or Taiwan Tourist Shuttle to Nanzhuang. Wander Nanzhuang Old Street, lined with Japanese-era wooden buildings, and sample Hakka snacks like mochi and lei cha. Enjoy a traditional Hakka lunch with stir-fry, stuffed tofu, and salted pork. In the afternoon, choose between an easy hike around Xiangtian Lake surrounded by cedar trees or a visit to Shitoushan (Lion's Head Mountain). Return to Taipei by bus to Zhunan and express train.
2-Day Classic
Day 1: From Hsinchu, take a train to Zhunan and a bus to Nanzhuang. Spend the afternoon exploring Nanzhuang Old Street and its Japanese-era wooden buildings, trying Hakka snacks like mochi and lei cha. Have dinner at a local Hakka restaurant featuring stir-fry, stuffed tofu, and salted pork. Overnight in Nanzhuang. Day 2: In the morning, hike the easy trail around Xiangtian Lake, set among cedar trees, or venture to Shitoushan for scenic trails. Return to Taipei in the afternoon via bus and express train.
Local Tips
Insider knowledge for a smoother trip.
From Hsinchu, take a train to Zhunan Station, then transfer to the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle or a local bus to Nanzhuang. The combined journey takes about 1.5 hours.
The best season to explore Miaoli is from October to March, when cooler weather makes walking and hiking comfortable.
Sample Hakka snacks such as mochi and lei cha on Nanzhuang Old Street. For a full meal, order traditional Hakka stir-fry, stuffed tofu, and salted pork at a local restaurant.
Wander the nostalgic street lined with Japanese-era wooden buildings and soak up the rural Hakka town atmosphere.
If time allows, hike the easy trail around Xiangtian Lake, surrounded by cedar trees, or visit the nearby Shitoushan (Lion's Head Mountain).
FAQs About miaoli
Quick answers to common questions.
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