Best things to do in Taichung

An elevated boardwalk snaking through a biodiverse landscape, Gaomei Wetland provides a protected sanctuary for wildlife and plant life. Established in 2005, the wetlands span 300 ha (741.3 ac) of land, consisting of a vast plain of marshy terrain scattered with wind turbines. Stroll the seemingly never-ending length of boardwalk, looking out for tiny crabs and birds in the surrounding watery reeds. Try to time your visit to coincide with sunset, which offers particularly spectacular views across the shimmering expanse.

Rainbow Village Taichung bursts with surreal artwork painted onto the sides of its buildings. Once a part of a network of inexpensive homes given to veterans of World War II and the Chinese Civil War, the village now contains rejuvenated structures painted by Huang Yung-fu Huang, a local artist who covered the buildings in colorful depictions of Chinese characters. Though you don't need to pay an entry fee, you can always donate, or alternatively purchase a souvenir from the gift shop, themed after the artwork in the village.

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.

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.

Located 1,750 m (5,741 ft) above sea level, Cingjing Veterans Farm is an agritourism farm. This attraction has been open to the public since 1961 and grows various kinds of fruit, including plums and pears. The grounds contain the a tourist center, gardens, grasslands, a park, and guest house. Interact with nature, learn about agriculture, and take in the beautiful scenery. You can plan a visit during any season, as the weather here is notably mild.

National Museum of Natural Science allows curious tourists to learn more about diverse topics like dinosaurs, tropical plants, and gems and minerals. The vast complex houses six venues--an IMAX theater, a science center, a global environment hall, a life science hall, human cultures hall, and a botanical garden--with over 30 exhibit areas. Kids and adults enjoy the hands-on exhibits and a special rotating display at the science center. The botanical garden provides a great environment for a stroll and many spots for relaxation. The nearby attractions include an earthquake museum.

Visit the second-oldest and the first private university in Taiwan at Tunghai University. This establishment boasts a peculiar-looking Christian chapel that resembles a cone, as well as landscaped lawns, impressive school buildings, and even its own dairy shop. All dairy products come from the university's own cows on campus, so make sure you try the organic milk or ice cream. If you visit while school is in session, don't be surprised if the students stop you to chat and practice their English.

At Leofoo Village Theme Park, you can explore themed areas, ride over 30 exciting rollercoasters, and interact with exotic animals on safari. Established in 1979 under the name Leofoo Wildlife Park, the park was reopened in 1989 as Leofoo Village Theme Park and now offers a selection of areas, including the "Arabian Kingdom," "South Pacific," and "Wild West," where you can ride on log flumes and other thrill rides. In the "African Safari" area, you can ride and feed horses, as well as observing Bengal tigers, baboons, and African lions from a tour bus. Consider bringing an umbrella for shade from the sun or rain, as the theme park offers little escape from the elements.

Discover Taiwanese modern and contemporary art at National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts. Surrounded by a sculpture park, the four-story building features 16 galleries, a library, a gift shop, and a tea house. Start at the sculpture park, which boasts over 40 sculptures and 50 calligraphy stone tablets. Move on through a transparent passageway, which creates a subtle transition from the exterior to the interior of the museum. The kids will love the family room, which features plenty of hands-on exhibits to experiment with. The permanent collection focuses on Taiwanese art starting from the 18th century, while temporary exhibitions display artworks from other East Asian countries.

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.