Beigang Township immerses you in the rich history, culture and traditions of Taiwan. Visit centuries-old temples, stroll along Qing dynasty shopping streets and enjoy mouth-watering dishes from Yunlin County.
Things to do in Beigang Township
Lavishly decorated with wood carvings and lanterns, Chaotian Temple dates back to the 1700s and is one of the most important religious sites in Taiwan. It’s dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu and attracts more than one million pilgrims a year. On spiritual days, you can enjoy performances by the enchanting Beigang Wind Orchestra. The temple also hosts music concerts, dance performances and other cultural events.
In front of Chaotian Temple, Beigang Old Street has been selling fresh produce, herbal remedies and incense since the Qing dynasty. It’s a great place to pick up colourful souvenirs and sample peanut candy, the town’s signature dessert.
Featuring three graceful arches, Beigang Tourist Bridge spans across the Beigang River and connects Yunlin and Chiayi counties. The design was inspired by Chinese dragons and is painted in bold shades of red and gold. The car-free bridge welcomes both pedestrians and cyclists.
Wude Temple is another of Taiwan’s oldest and best-preserved temples. It’s dedicated to Xuan Tan Zhen Jun the Chinese god of wealth and is decorated with imagery of the bearded deity. Walk around the complex before enjoying refreshments at the atmospheric café.
Rice dumplings, beef noodles and mackerel soup are just some of the local delicacies to enjoy in Beigang Township. Dine at a family-run restaurant or pick up a snack from a street food stall.
Getting around Beigang Township
Beigang Township is located in Yunlin County, a 1.5-hour drive from Taichung City and one hour from Tainan City. The main town is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore Beigang Township and Yunlin County at your own pace.