Central District is the most densely populated area of the city of Taichung, Taiwan. It is home to the hub of transportation, Taichung Station, which allows visitors easy access across the entire country. The area is vibrant and busy with many night markets, restaurants, malls and museums.
In addition to the famous Fengjia Night Market which caters to tourists, Zhonxiao Market offers a more local, authentic browsing experience. This night market focuses on food, where there are street stalls serving gastronomic delicacies, and is an area that is popular with students. Try the specialties, sticky tofu, oyster thin noodles and bean curd soup. It’s the perfect place for Vegetarian visitors. There are several Buddhist and Taoist Temples to explore nearby, all of which are ornately decorated and offer a calm and peaceful haven following a market visit. Located on the edge of Central District approaching West District, is the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts. Art connoisseurs can discover the best of Taiwanese contemporary art, and the wonderful Outdoor Sculpture Park at one of Asia’s largest museums. Calligraphy Greenway links the park with the National Museum of National Science. This museum has nine tantalising hectares perfect for science enthusiasts. There are permanent exhibits in the fields of astronomy, palaeontology and space science, plus a Global Environment Hall and Earthquake Education Museum. The hands-on exhibits ensure both adults and children are catered for in this unique learning facility. To indulge in a slower pace of city life, Taichung Park offers relaxing days by the lake. It’s home to pavilions, gatehouses, kayaking, tennis and children’s facilities. Taichung Central District comes to life after dark, with many bars open until the early hours serving cocktails, food, laughter and live music.
The city’s rail network is located in Taichung Central District. From here, visitors can be transported all over Taiwan. Buses operate from directly outside the rail station traversing the entire city and its attractions. Alternatively, daring travellers may wish to hire a scooter. It’s a popular way to get around, and rentals are reasonably priced. Visitors looking to venture further afield to Sun Moon Lake should consider car rental, by car this beautiful location can be reached in just 1.5 hours.
Taichung was founded in 1805, where its rich history began with the Taiwanese Aboriginals and transforms into a district ruled by the Chinese Qing Dynasty, then the Japanese. The city has undergone many name changes from Dàdūn under the Chinese rule to Taichū under the Japanese. It was only in recent years, on Christmas day in 2010 that Taichung City and the County of Taiwan Province merged into a new municipality.