Situated amidst the mountains and sea in central Taiwan, Yunlin County presents a bona fide experience of Taiwanese culture, distinct from the hum of city life. An agricultural haven, Yunlin experiences a subtropical climate with thriving summers and temperate winters, making it a perfect getaway round the year.
Referred to as the agricultural hub of Taiwan, Yunlin's spirit is tied up with farming customs, folk superstitions, and a relaxed lifestyle that offers a refreshing change from Taipei's frenetic urban vibe. Night markets, temple events, and long-standing family enterprises sustaining traditional craftsmanship and culinary techniques form the heart of local living here.
What sets Yunlin apart is its reputation as the puppet theater center of Taiwan, with the Yunlin International Puppet Festival attracting participants and spectators from all over Asia. Besides, the county is well known for its agricultural yields, especially garlic, coffee, and orchids. The wide-ranging flower fields offer striking photo options during the flowering seasons.
Food enthusiasts should not miss the chance to try the signature brown sugar pastries of Xiluo or the traditional temple food street of Beigang. A visit to the renowned Beigang Chaotian Temple, one of the most significant Mazu Temples in Taiwan, gives a glimpse into the local religious culture and is the venue of lively festivals round the year.
TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) offers regular services connecting Yunlin to the main cities. Principal stations include Douliou and Xiluo. An EasyCard simplifies travel through a tap-and-go mechanism. Trains run often during daylight but the frequency significantly reduces past 8 PM.
You can take either the High-Speed Rail (HSR), which takes 1.5 hours, or the regular TRA train, which typically takes 3 hours, to reach Yunlin. HSR is more expensive but conversely is much faster.
Major tourist areas are the only places where English is usually spoken. It is advisable to know basic Mandarin phrases and to have a translation app handy.
From October through April are considered the best months to visit, owing to comfortable temperatures and limited rainfall. The Puppet Festival, which generally occurs in October, adds to the local cultural experience.
Most major banks in Douliou and other large towns house international ATMs. However, it’s best to carry cash while venturing into rural areas and traditional markets.
A stay for 2-3 days usually suffices to explore the primary attractions, including Beigang Temple and local markets.
Travel Tips for Yunlin
Explore Yunlin