Taichung

Taichung is a city located in western Taiwan, East Asia.

The National Museum of Natural Science is composed of seven museums in one and is a good option for families with children (note: a lot of the information is only in Chinese).

The National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts (closed Mondays) is a large and elaborate modern arts museum, featuring visual exhibits, an elaborate children's section with hands-on art exhibits and creative playthings. The Municipal Cultural Center is adjacent to the National Art Museum.

Taichung Winery, dates back to the Japanese-era and is still in operation. There is also a Wine Museum, with displays on wine-making and the history of the winery.

There are many temples in Taichung including Confucius Temple, Pao Hueh Buddhist Temple featuring a gold, 7 floor laughing Buddha and Wen Chang Temple, built around 1825 and dedicated to the “Scholar God".

Dasyueshan (Great Snow Mountain) National Forest Recreational Area is a popular visitor attraction.
The area provides stunning views, especially from Yakou Observatory.

Other places to visit include Taichung Park, Rainbow Village and Yamay Theme Park in Houli, which is good for children.

Yizhong Street is the main shopping area and location for the night market. Clothing, accessories, jewellery and souvenirs can all be found here.

Fresh seafood as well as international options such as Italian, Indian, Japanese, Indonesian and European can all be found here. Try some local snacks such as cuttlefish and squid with rice, fried noodles, shrimp pancakes and baked dumplings.

Cruise ships dock at the Port of Taichung, an industrial area. Cruise lines may provide transportation into town.

Taxis are also available but ensure they use their meters and the drivers know exactly where you want to go as they only speak Chinese (a guidebook with English and Chinese may be helpful).