Known as Taiwan’s version of Silicon Valley, Hsinchu City houses more than 400 technology companies at Hsinchu Science Park and has a decidedly laid-back ambience. Small shops and cafes line the canal zone, and the harbour area attracts cyclists to the oceanfront bike path and green spaces.

Things to do

One the oldest cities in Northern Taiwan, Hsinchu retains architectural treasures such as the opulent Hsinchu Cheng Huang Temple. Local food stalls surround the temple area, which is also home to Yin Hsi East Gate, the city’s 19th-century entrance. Visit Guan Di Temple to see carvings and inscriptions by Taiwanese scholars.

Diverse exhibitions highlight Hsinchu culture in venues such as the Military Villages Museum and Hsinchu City Fire Museum. The Hsinchu Municipal Glass Museum reflects Hsinchu City’s reputation for exquisite glassmaking since the 1800s.

Shoppers can head to Big City on Zhongyang Road for a conglomeration of modern shops, while Houzhan Tourism Night Market stretches along Nanda Road selling Taiwanese handicrafts and street food. Musicians and gaming stalls keep things lively throughout the evening.

Hsinchu Zoo houses endangered species and tropical rainforests as well as Bengal tigers and Malay bears. Numerous outdoors spaces such as Riverside Park and Hsinchu City Park offer fresh air and relaxation, while hiking trails lead across the forested Eighteen Peaks Mountain region.

Getting around

Many visitors arrive in Hsinchu City by car, about an hour from Taipei, or via high-speed rail. City buses run throughout the main town centre and into the suburbs. Taxis are readily available throughout the city, operating from taxi stands and bus and train stations.