About Place
- Hsinchu is located in northern Taiwan and is often referred to as the "Windy City" due to its frequent strong winds.
- It is an offbeat destination, offering a unique blend of high-tech industry and traditional cultural heritage.
- The city is known for its fusion of modern advancements with historical landmarks and scenic natural beauty.
Reasons to Visit
- Technology Meets Tradition : Hsinchu is home to the Hsinchu Science Park, a hub for Taiwan’s semiconductor and high-tech industries. Despite its modernity, the city preserves its traditional charm through its historic temples, old streets, and cultural sites.
- Scenic Coastline and Nature : The city is situated along Taiwan’s northwest coast, offering picturesque seaside views and natural parks such as the Eighteen Peaks Mountain and Green Grass Lake. These spots are perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the outdoors.
- Cultural Heritage : Hsinchu is one of Taiwan's oldest cities, with a history that dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Hsinchu City God Temple and the Chenghuang Temple Night Market, where traditional foods and crafts provide a glimpse into the local culture.
Visa
- Taiwanese Visa: Depending on your nationality, visa requirements for Taiwan vary. Citizens of several countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and EU countries, can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 90 days. Travelers from other countries might need to apply for a visa in advance or obtain a visa on arrival. It’s recommended to check Taiwan's visa policy or contact your local Taiwanese embassy for the most accurate information.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Hsinchu : Round-trip airfare from major cities like New York, London, or Sydney to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport typically ranges from $800 to $1,200 per person. The cost of a taxi or private transfer from the airport to Hsinchu is about $40-$60.
- Hotel Cost : A three-night stay at a mid-range hotel in Hsinchu, such as Lakeshore Hotel, would cost around $100-$150 per night. Total: $300-$450.
- Food Cost : Expect to spend about $10-$20 per person per meal. For a couple, total food expenses for three days would be approximately $180-$360.
- Activity Cost : Most attractions in Hsinchu, such as temples and parks, are free or have minimal entry fees. Estimated total: $50-$100.
- Near Destination Travel Cost : Renting a car in Hsinchu costs around $50-$70 per day. For three days, expect to spend $150-$210.
Total Estimated Cost : $1,520 - $2,380 for a couple.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Introduction to Hsinchu
Upon arrival at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, you'll take a short 40-minute drive to Hsinchu. After checking in at your hotel, start your exploration with a visit to Hsinchu City God Temple (Chenghuang Temple) around 10 AM, where you can observe local worship practices and enjoy traditional snacks at the nearby market. Have lunch at the famous Miao Kou Night Market around 12:30 PM, trying dishes like oyster omelets and pork meatballs. In the afternoon, visit Hsinchu Zoo, the oldest zoo in Taiwan, from 2 PM to 4 PM. Enjoy dinner at Hsinchu’s Big City Mall, which offers a variety of international cuisines, before a relaxing evening walk around Hsinchu Railway Station and its surrounding historical sites.
Day 2 : Nature and Science
Start your day with a visit to Green Grass Lake at 9 AM, where you can rent a bike and explore the scenic surroundings until 11 AM. Have lunch at a local restaurant near Hsinchu Science Park around 1 PM, where you can try some Taiwanese bento boxes. Spend your afternoon exploring the National Tsing Hua University campus from 2 PM to 4 PM, known for its beautiful gardens and cultural exhibitions. For dinner, visit Hsinchu East Gate area at 7 PM, which is famous for its local eateries. End the day with a stroll along Hsinchu’s North Coast, enjoying the sunset views.
Day 3 : Historical Exploration and Departure
Begin your final day at 9 AM with a visit to the Eighteen Peaks Mountain, a popular hiking spot that offers panoramic views of the city. Have lunch at Nanliao Fish Harbor around 12:30 PM, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. In the afternoon, visit the Hsinchu Glass Museum from 2 PM to 3:30 PM to learn about the city’s glass-making heritage. Afterward, head back to your hotel to check out and then transfer to the airport for your departure.
Safety Tips
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa, and keep the originals safe in your hotel.
- Always drink bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach issues.
- Be aware of local customs, especially when visiting temples.
- Use only licensed taxis or trusted transportation services.
- Stay informed about local weather, especially during the typhoon season.
- Purchase travel insurance covering medical emergencies.
- Know the location of the nearest hospital.
- Have a map or a working GPS, as English signage can be limited.
- Keep emergency contact numbers saved on your phone.
Flights
- EVA Air and China Airlines offer direct flights from major cities to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. Prices range from $800 to $1,200, depending on the time of booking and departure city.
Hotels
- Lakeshore Hotel : Comfortable, scenic views, around $130/night.
- Fleur Lis Hotel : Central location, elegant design, around $110/night.
- Ambassador Hotel : Luxury option, great amenities, around $150/night.
- The HO Hotel : Stylish, modern amenities, around $120/night.
- Royal Hsinchu : Known for its service, around $140/night.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy, Taiwan : +886-2-2775-3010
- Police : 110
- Ambulance/Firefighters : 119
Country
Closet Airport
- Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
Nearest City
- Taipei
Heritage Sites
- Chenghuang Temple
Airlines
- EVA Air
- China Airlines
- Cathay Pacific
- Singapore Airlines fly to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.
Currency
- New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
Languages Spoken
- Mandarin
- Hokkien
Real Story
The story of Hsinchu's transformation into Taiwan's "Silicon Valley" is a tale of vision, innovation, and economic revolution. In the late 1970s, Taiwan was undergoing significant economic changes, transitioning from a primarily agricultural society to an industrial powerhouse. The government recognized the need to focus on high-tech industries to ensure sustainable economic growth and global competitiveness.
In 1980, the Taiwanese government established the Hsinchu Science Park (HSP), marking the beginning of a new era for Hsinchu. Located in the northern part of the city, the park was strategically chosen for its proximity to prestigious universities like National Tsing Hua University and National Chiao Tung University, which could provide the necessary research and talent pool.
The establishment of HSP was not without challenges. Taiwan at the time lacked the infrastructure, experience, and resources to compete with established tech giants like the United States and Japan. However, the Taiwanese government, with support from visionary leaders such as K. T. Li (often called the "Father of Taiwan's Economic Miracle"), implemented policies that attracted investment from domestic and international companies. They offered tax incentives, government support, and the promise of a well-educated workforce.
HSP quickly became a magnet for high-tech firms, particularly in the semiconductor industry. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), founded in 1987, became the crown jewel of HSP and played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the global semiconductor industry. TSMC’s "fabless" model allowed companies to design chips without owning fabrication plants, thus driving innovation and lowering costs.
The success of HSP transformed Hsinchu from a quiet, historic town into a bustling, global tech hub. By the 1990s, HSP had become one of the world's leading high-tech clusters, contributing significantly to Taiwan's GDP and establishing the country as a critical player in the global technology market. The park’s success story is a testament to Taiwan's strategic foresight and resilience, and it has become a model for other countries seeking to develop their own high-tech industries.
Today, HSP is home to over 400 companies and employs more than 150,000 people. The park's impact extends beyond economics, influencing the city’s culture, education, and lifestyle, making Hsinchu a unique blend of the past and the future.
Cuisine
Hsinchu’s culinary scene is a delightful reflection of its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. The city is famous for several unique local dishes that you won’t find elsewhere in Taiwan.
Hsinchu Rice Noodles (米粉): These are arguably the most famous local dish. The rice noodles from Hsinchu are distinctively thin, chewy, and have a slightly translucent appearance. They are often stir-fried or served in a savory broth with ingredients like pork, mushrooms, and vegetables. The secret to these noodles lies in the local climate, particularly the wind, which plays a crucial role in the drying process.
Meatball Soup (貢丸湯): Another iconic dish in Hsinchu is the meatball soup, made from finely minced pork that is seasoned and then formed into springy, tender meatballs. The soup is typically light and clear, allowing the flavor of the meatballs to shine. It’s a comforting dish often enjoyed during colder months.
Zhu Dong Fen Rou (竹東粉粿): This is a traditional snack originating from the Zhu Dong area of Hsinchu. It’s a type of rice cake that is steamed and then fried, giving it a crispy outside while remaining soft inside. The rice cake is often served with a savory soy sauce-based dip, making it a popular street food item.
Hsinchu’s night markets, especially the one near Chenghuang Temple, are culinary treasures where you can sample a variety of local delicacies. From oyster omelets and stinky tofu to peanut mochi and sweet potato balls, these markets offer a taste of traditional Taiwanese street food with a local twist.
The fusion of traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques also gives rise to innovative dishes, reflecting the city’s dual identity of preserving the old while embracing the new. Whether you are dining at a local market or a contemporary restaurant, Hsinchu's cuisine offers a flavorful journey through its cultural and historical landscape.
Culture and History
Hsinchu, known as Taiwan's "Windy City," is a place where ancient traditions and modern advancements coexist in harmony. The city's history stretches back to the early 18th century during the Qing Dynasty when it was established as a market town. Originally called "Chuchien," it was renamed Hsinchu in 1878, meaning "new bamboo," to symbolize strength and resilience.
Traditional Culture: Hsinchu is deeply rooted in Taiwanese culture, which is evident in its many temples, festivals, and traditional practices. The Chenghuang Temple (City God Temple) is the most famous temple in Hsinchu, built during the Qing Dynasty. It serves as a religious and social center where locals worship the City God, believed to protect the town. The temple’s annual festival is a significant event, drawing thousands of devotees and tourists who come to witness traditional rituals, parades, and performances.
The city also honors its past through the preservation of its historic old streets, such as Beimen Street and Zhongzheng Road, where visitors can see well-preserved Qing-era architecture, old shops, and traditional markets. These areas provide a glimpse into what life was like centuries ago, allowing visitors to experience the old-world charm of Hsinchu.
Modern Influence: While Hsinchu cherishes its historical roots, it has also embraced modernity, particularly through the development of the Hsinchu Science Park. Established in the 1980s, the park has made Hsinchu a global center for semiconductor manufacturing and high-tech industries. This modernity is reflected in the city’s skyline, where sleek office buildings and cutting-edge research facilities contrast with ancient temples and traditional houses.
The city is also home to several prestigious educational institutions, such as National Tsing Hua University and National Chiao Tung University, which contribute to its reputation as a center for innovation and intellectual growth. The presence of these universities has also brought a youthful and cosmopolitan vibe to the city, influencing its cultural and social landscape.
Festivals and Events: Hsinchu celebrates several traditional festivals with much fanfare. The Lunar New Year is a time of grand celebrations, with temple fairs, lion dances, and family gatherings. The Dragon Boat Festival, celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, sees the city’s rivers filled with colorful dragon boats racing against each other. The Mid-Autumn Festival, known for mooncakes and lanterns, is another cultural highlight.
Hsinchu also hosts modern events like the Hsinchu City International Glass Art Festival, reflecting its connection to the glass-making industry. This event showcases the work of local and international artists, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary art.