Situated between Hsinchu and Taichung on Taiwan's west coast, Miaoli County is a welcome retreat from the island's urban jungles. This bucolic region weaves together undulating landscapes, tea farms, and quaint charm with a powerful Hakka cultural lineage, providing a unique twist to the typical Taiwanese getaway.

This district enjoys benign winters and hot, humid summers characteristic of Taiwan's subtropical climate. Spring greets visitors with comfortable temperatures and occasional showers, whereas autumn boasts clear skies ideal for outdoor adventures. The geography gradually shifts from the western coastal plains through a range of hills to the mountainous east, resulting in a variety of microclimates suitable for growing strawberries, tea, and flowers.

The indelible mark of Miaoli's major Hakka influence resonates through aspects like architecture, taste, and lifestyle. The region takes pride in its specialty, lei cha (ground tea), a nutritious beverage that pays homage to the sustainable, no-waste ethos of Hakka culture. You'll come across traditional Hakka hamlets, several of which have metamorphosized into cultural parks, opening the door to experience time-honored cookery techniques and pastoral customs.

Essential attractions are the Huoyan Mountain Ecology Museum, a window to the region's distinct "fire mountain" geography, and the Lionhead Mountain Scenic Area, featuring hiking trails and age-old temples. The Taiwan Strawberry Cultural Museum at Dahu deserves a special mention, especially during the winter harvest period when you can pluck fresh berries right from the plant.