Best things to do in Changhua

A popular attraction among locals, Hehuanshan National Forest Recreation Area serves as one of the only places in Taiwan where visitors can see snow. To reach the site, take a car, taxi, or tour van up the Hehuanshan Road. From here, you can embark upon a 1 km (.6-mi) trail that ends at the mountain's summit, where you'll be treated to expansive views of the surrounding nature, specifically Taroko Gorge National Park. Many tourists choose to come here in the middle of the night or early morning for stargazing or sunrises. It is common to see snow here during the winter months, as the mountain's peak is 3,416 m (11,207 ft) high.

Cultural and educational entertainment intersect at Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. This village was founded in 1986 to exhibit the history, traditions, and other aspects of aboriginal tribes in the area. With 62 hectares (153 acres) of land, the site actually contains five individual theme parks. Explore the site's European gardens area, a plaza, aboriginal villages, an amusement isle, and rainforest area during your trip. The park offers themed rides for all ages, as well as multiple museums, a 3-D movie theater, and even a live, family-friendly dance show.

Famed for its sparkling blue waters set against a mountainous backdrop, Sun Moon Lake represents Taiwan's largest body of water. Hike the surrounding trails, which lead to interesting sites like a Chinese style pagoda, Thao villages, and a grand temple. You can also take a boat tour to visit Lalu Island, which aboriginal locals consider a sacred place. Generally quiet and off the beaten path, the area around the lake comes to life during festivities, which include laser shows, concerts, and fireworks.

Witness the old-fashioned method of storing locomotives at Sector Garage. See how this rare garage operates, by spinning the tracks in the right direction and connecting the trains on them. One of only three remaining garages of its kind in the world, the fan-shaped storage facility gives you a glimpse into the world of locomotives and where they come to get repaired, or to rest until their next journey.

Step back into the history of the country with a stroll along Lugang Old Street. This well-preserved historical area features a red-tiled walkway and old houses exhibiting traditional architecture. Numerous pictures and signs of deer pay homage to the wild creatures that used to live in this once-coastal area. See the small alleys bustling with colorful vendors, offering handicrafts, clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs. Finish your visit with a traditional meal in one of the street restaurants.

Climb the 366 stairs at the Year of Steps staircase to Wenwu Temple. The site features three halls, one of which is dedicated to First Ancestor Kaiji and the God of Literature, the second one to the God of War, and the third one to Confucius. Inside the temple you will see a bronze statue of Confucius, which is the only one in Taiwan, as well as images of his disciples and two Chinese guardian lions in front of it, guarding the entrance.

Built in 17th century, Tianhou Temple represents one of the oldest temples in Taiwan devoted to Matsu, the Goddess of the Sea. It got its current layout in 1936—--that of three structures and two yards. In front of the temple, a small garden features a dragon pond and at the back you'll find a culture museum of Matsu. The Goddess’ statue in the altar, brought to Taiwan from China in 1684, has a face black with incense smoke. Don’'t miss the elegant murals and paintings, and exquisite stone and wood carvings inside. Outside, visit the souvenir shops or get some delicacies at the street food stalls. The temple hosts many religious festivals and over 1 million worshipers every year.

Equally popular among tourists, hikers, and mountain climbers, Ali Mountain (Alishan) offers visitors natural beauty and outdoor adventure. At this mountain you will find multiple villages, waterfalls, trekking trails, a shinto temple, and the Alishan Forest Railway. In addition to lush forests, this resort area is known for tea and wasabi production. Take a tour to learn about the history of the mountain or arrive in the predawn hours (before 5 a.m.) to experience it as one of the nation's most popular sunrise viewing locations.

Explore the history of Lukang by roaming through its streets and tasting its food. Once a popular harbor, the town boasts a fine collection of temples dating back to the Qing dynasty. Other city highlights include a museum that displays the local way of life and changes that occurred in the area over the last century. Outdoor markets, which line the streets of this small town, remain among the best places to visit if you're interested in soaking up some authentic Taiwanese sights and sounds.

Visit the centuries-old temple of Lugang Longshan Temple to see remarkable craftsmanship from the period of the Qing dynasty. Once a small temple, the building and its gardens were expanded to create a place where people could come to worship, take a walk, or admire the architecture. Discover the detailed ceiling of the outdoor gate, made entirely of precisely cut wood, with no nails to support the beams. While inside, check out the artifacts, including dragon pillars, statues dedicated to deities, and various other items.

With its numerous winding trails and meanders, Bagua Mountain offers a serene walking experience. Wander among the trees and the gardens all the way to the famous black statue of Buddha. Inside the shrine, find out about Buddha's story by observing the sculpture depictions. For a small donation you can write your name on a candle and make a wish while lighting it. Visit the three-story temple behind the statue, and a secluded koi pool. Round off your visit with some Taiwanese street food--quail eggs are a perennial favorite. Vendors sell souvenirs on site.

Drawing heavily on Japanese culture, Xitou Monster Village allows you to explore and spot the various monsters or spirits that adorn the area. Opened in 2011 to commemorate the friendship between a Japanese and Taiwanese man that arose during the Japanese occupation of the country, the village affords many interesting and novel photo opportunities, filled with sprites and mythology. Peruse shops filled with monster souvenirs and taste some local snacks and cuisine purveyed by various food vendors.