Located along Taiwan's northwestern coastline, Hsinchu City offers a fusion of ancient heritage and contemporary innovation. Its nickname, Taiwan's "Windy City," can be attributed to the potent coastal breezes for which it is known. Hsinchu experiences a subtropical climate, with gentle winters and humid, warm summers. Owing to the city's compact size, traversing it is relatively simple, with the majority of attractions situated within a walkable central district.
Hsinchu, Taiwan's prime technology center, boasts the renowned Hsinchu Science Park. This creates a distinctive energy where conventional night markets and advanced research facilities coexist. The city's inhabitants, a diverse group of tech professionals and scholars contribute to a dynamic ambiance that harmoniously unites the new and old Taiwan.
Hsinchu's East Gate, a historical monument dating back to the Qing Dynasty, serves as the city's most recognizable landmark. Alongside it, the ancestrally-aged Chenghuang Temple continues to act as a vivid hub of local religious activities. The city takes pride in its glass art industry, exhibited at the Taiwan Glass Gallery and its unique rice noodles (米粉), which have bestowed it with nationwide acclaim.
Epicures should make a point to visit the bustling Chenghuang Night Market. Here, Hsinchu’s meatballs (貢丸) and dried persimmon, popular local delicacies, attract food enthusiasts from across Taiwan. The seaside Seventeen Kilometers Scenic Area delivers a splendid retreat for nature enthusiasts, marrying gusty beaches with cycling trails and seafood gastronomy.
Hsinchu's recently established light rail system links significant areas such as the Science Park and the city center. You can conveniently access transportation using a tap-and-go EasyCard. The trains operate every 10-15 minutes from 6 AM to midnight.
Currency exchange services are available at major banks around East Gate and at the SOGO department store. A valid passport is required. Most ATMs accept international cards.
Yes, Hsinchu is a safe city with low incidences of crime. It is always advisable to take standard precautions, keeping an eye out at night markets where occasional pickpocketing has been reported.
The period from October to April provides hospitable temperatures and less rainfall. It is advisable to eschew the summer months (June-August) due to high humidity levels and possible typhoons.
Although basic English is comprehensible in key tourist zones and the Science Park, downloading a translation app and saving essential phrases in Mandarin would be beneficial.
The airport shuttle bus (at a cost of NT$200) or the high-speed rail from Taoyuan to Hsinchu station are both options. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.
Travel Tips for Hsinchu City
Explore Hsinchu City