Changhua: Discover the Heart of Taiwan’s Heritage and Countryside Charm
Nestled in the heart of central Taiwan, Changhua County (彰化縣) is a destination that blends rich history, religious landmarks, and idyllic countryside life into an authentic and unforgettable travel experience. Though often overlooked in favor of its flashier neighbors like Taichung or Tainan, Changhua holds its own with centuries-old temples, quaint towns, and a rhythm of life that speaks to Taiwan’s cultural roots.
Whether you’re strolling through traditional markets, gazing up at Taiwan’s largest Buddha statue, cycling through rice paddies, or tasting local delicacies in the historic Lukang Old Street, Changhua offers a slice of Taiwan where heritage and simplicity take center stage.
If you’re a traveler who enjoys exploring off the beaten path, loves history, and wants to experience local life without the tourist crowds, Changhua is your kind of place.
🧭 Where Is Changhua?
Changhua is located in central Taiwan, just south of Taichung City. It’s accessible via Taiwan Railways (TRA) and by car, and it also connects to the High-Speed Rail through a nearby station in Taichung. Despite its central location and easy access, Changhua remains a quiet, largely rural county with a strong sense of tradition and community.
🌟 Why Visit Changhua?
While it may not have skyscrapers or mega-malls, Changhua’s appeal lies in its authenticity. This is a place where you can truly connect with Taiwan’s past—through its well-preserved towns, folk festivals, and crafts passed down through generations.
Let’s take a look at what makes Changhua so special.
🏯 Historical and Cultural Highlights
1. Lukang Old Street (鹿港老街): A Walk Through Time
Once a bustling port town during the Qing Dynasty, Lukang is now one of Taiwan’s most charming historic areas. The old street features narrow alleys, red brick houses, and a range of traditional shops, selling everything from handmade lanterns to herbal medicine.
Must-sees:
Lukang Longshan Temple (鹿港龍山寺) – a masterpiece of Taiwanese temple architecture
Nine-Turns Lane (九曲巷) – a maze-like alleyway with deep historical roots
Traditional pastries – like ox-tongue cakes and peanut candy
Lukang is a living museum of Taiwanese folk culture and architecture.
2. Baguashan Great Buddha (八卦山大佛): Spiritual and Scenic
Towering at 22 meters, the Great Buddha of Baguashan watches over Changhua City from a hilltop. The statue, built in 1961, is one of Taiwan’s most iconic religious landmarks. Surrounding the Buddha are tranquil gardens, viewing platforms, and walking paths that offer panoramic views of the countryside.
Pro Tip: Visit around sunset for stunning golden hour photos of the statue and skyline.
🌳 Nature and Outdoor Attractions
3. Baguashan Skywalk: A Forest Adventure
Next to the Great Buddha is the Baguashan Skywalk, a walking path raised above the treetops. This eco-friendly attraction lets visitors enjoy the region’s natural beauty and birdwatching opportunities while strolling through a serene forest canopy.
It’s family-friendly, free to enter, and a peaceful break from urban life.
4. Cycling in Tianwei Flower Garden Zone (田尾公路花園)
Love flowers and open air? Head to Tianwei Township, home to Taiwan’s largest flower-growing region. Here you’ll find miles of landscaped flower gardens, garden shops, nurseries, and cafés nestled among the blooms.
Rent a bicycle or electric scooter and spend an afternoon cycling through floral tunnels and taking postcard-worthy photos.
Best time to visit: Autumn and winter, when flower blooms peak and weather is pleasant.
🍜 Food You Must Try in Changhua
Changhua has its own distinct culinary scene, deeply rooted in Taiwanese and Hakka traditions.
Local Specialties:
Ba-wan (肉圓) – A glutinous meat dumpling unique to Changhua, filled with pork and bamboo shoots, then steamed and fried.
Cat Mouse Noodles (貓鼠麵) – A savory noodle dish from Lukang with an unusual name but incredible flavor.
Traditional Taiwanese pastries – Handmade by generations-old bakeries in Lukang and Changhua City.
Rice cakes (碗粿) – Soft, steamed rice pudding topped with savory pork or mushrooms.
Pro tip: Visit the night markets in Changhua City or Lukang for a deep dive into local flavors.
🛕 Festivals and Folk Culture
Changhua is home to some of Taiwan’s most colorful folk festivals, many of which are centered around its temples. Traditional performances, parades, lion dances, and puppet shows are often seen during Chinese New Year, Lantern Festival, and Mazu Pilgrimages.
These festivals are authentic cultural expressions, not tourist spectacles, and they’re a fantastic way to experience local life.
🚆 Getting to and Around Changhua
By Train: The TRA Changhua Station is centrally located and connects to major cities.
By High-Speed Rail: Use the Taichung HSR Station, then transfer to Changhua via local train or taxi.
By Car/Scooter: Ideal for exploring rural towns and flower gardens.
By Bus: Several intercity buses connect Changhua to neighboring counties.
Most of Changhua’s attractions are within a short drive or bike ride from each other.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Ideal for flower viewing in Tianwei and pleasant weather.
Autumn (October–November): Cool temperatures and clear skies make for the best sightseeing conditions.
Winter: Mild and great for cycling and temple visits.
Summer: Hot and humid, but a great time for night markets and festivals.
📍 Suggested 2-Day Itinerary in Changhua
Day 1
Morning: Visit the Baguashan Buddha and Skywalk
Afternoon: Explore Lukang Old Street and its temples
Evening: Try local street food at a nearby night market
Day 2
Morning: Rent a bike in Tianwei Flower Garden Zone
Afternoon: Visit local farms or tea houses
Evening: Enjoy sunset from Baguashan or take in a temple event
🌟 Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Changhua
Changhua is Taiwan without the gloss—a destination where history, spirituality, and everyday life coexist in a beautifully unfiltered way. It’s a place where temples still guide the rhythms of local life, where food is made by hand, and where the past isn’t preserved in museums but lived daily in the streets and homes of its people.
If you’re craving an authentic Taiwanese experience away from the usual tourist path, Changhua is the perfect choice. It may be quiet, but it speaks volumes to the heart.
Top Tips for Visiting Changhua: Taiwan’s Cultural Heartland
Tucked away in central Taiwan, Changhua is a city that often flies under the radar—but it shouldn’t. Known for its rich history, Buddhist landmarks, and traditional foods, Changhua offers a more laid-back and authentic side of Taiwan. Whether you’re a history buff, food lover, or just looking to explore somewhere beyond the usual tourist trail, Changhua is well worth a visit.
🚆 1. Getting to Changhua is Easy and Scenic
Changhua is about 1.5 hours from Taipei by TRA train and just 20–30 minutes from Taichung. You can also take the HSR (High-Speed Rail) to Taichung and transfer to a local train or bus. Once you arrive, the city is compact enough to explore on foot or by bike.
✅ Pro Tip: Rent a scooter or bicycle from the train station area for easy access to major attractions.
🛕 2. Visit the Giant Buddha at Baguashan
No trip to Changhua is complete without visiting the Great Buddha of Baguashan, a towering 22-meter-tall seated Buddha perched on a hill overlooking the city. The area also features a peaceful park, walking trails, and panoramic views.
Inside the statue, you can walk through multiple floors that depict stories from Buddhist scripture.
Nearby, you’ll find the Baguashan Skywalk, a treetop pedestrian bridge perfect for photos and city views.
✅ Tip: Visit around sunset for magical lighting and cooler temperatures.
🚂 3. Explore the Changhua Roundhouse
One of Changhua’s most unique attractions is the Changhua Roundhouse, a historic locomotive maintenance facility still in use today. It’s a rare example of a fully functioning fan-shaped railway depot, and it’s a hit with train enthusiasts and photographers.
Watch real locomotives spin on the turntable.
Learn about Taiwan’s railway history through displays and signage.
✅ Pro Tip: Arrive in the morning (before 11 am) to see more action and avoid crowds.
🏯 4. Discover Traditional Taiwanese Temples
Changhua is home to some of the oldest and most ornate temples in Taiwan, reflecting its long-standing cultural roots:
Lukang Longshan Temple – one of the most beautifully preserved temples in Taiwan, with intricate wood carvings and stone sculptures.
Yusan Hall and Nanyao Temple – classic examples of Hokkien temple architecture and traditional religious practices.
✅ Tip: Visit during festivals like Lantern Festival or Ghost Month to see these temples truly come alive.
🥢 5. Eat Your Way Through Lukang Old Street
Just a short ride from central Changhua, Lukang (Lugang) is a historical town packed with old streets, traditional buildings, and most importantly, incredible food.
Try ox tongue cakes, shrimp rolls, mochi, and rice cakes unique to this region.
Explore narrow alleyways, red-brick houses, and artisan workshops that date back centuries.
✅ Pro Tip: Head there mid-morning or early afternoon before shops close around 5–6 pm.
🎨 6. Explore Street Art and Culture in Tianzhong
Tianzhong Township, a lesser-known gem in Changhua County, is home to public art installations, rural bike trails, and beautiful rice paddies. It’s especially photogenic during flower seasons and harvest times.
✅ Tip: Rent a bike and explore the surrounding fields, especially during flower festivals (usually held in autumn).
🛍️ 7. Shop for Traditional Crafts and Souvenirs
Changhua and Lukang are great places to buy traditional crafts, including:
Handmade fans
Wooden toys
Calligraphy brushes
Local snacks
Many of the vendors along Lukang Old Street sell handcrafted items that make for thoughtful souvenirs or gifts.
✅ Pro Tip: Look for artisan workshops where you can see the making process and even try your hand at some traditional crafts.
🧘 8. Slow Down and Enjoy the Countryside
Much of Changhua’s charm lies in its peaceful countryside, dotted with farmlands, old villages, and gentle hills. If you want a break from city crowds, consider a rural stay or farm experience.
Visit organic farms, pick your own fruits, or join DIY food-making sessions.
Explore smaller towns like Xihu or Beidou for a quiet, authentic experience.
✅ Tip: Many farms offer overnight stays or half-day activities perfect for families and slow travelers.
📸 9. Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Changhua is autumn (October–November) and spring (March–April) when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are comfortable. Avoid the midsummer heat if you’re planning to walk or bike around.
✅ Bonus: Late autumn is also when you’ll see golden rice fields and flower festivals in full bloom!
Final Thoughts
Changhua may not be as flashy as Taipei or Kaohsiung, but that’s exactly why it’s so special. With its deep historical roots, serene landscapes, authentic food, and welcoming locals, this city is ideal for travelers who want to experience real Taiwan—where the past and present coexist in harmony.
So take a step off the tourist path, slow down, and let Changhua surprise you.