Sprawling north of Taichung, Miaoli County is a region of soaring mountains and lush river valleys bordering the Taiwan Strait. It was occupied by the indigenous Taoka people for hundreds of years before the arrival of Han Chinese in the 17th century. Today, it’s a melting pot of different cultures, including the Hakka, Saisiyat and Atayal people.
Things to do in Miaoli County
Majestic natural landscapes, ancient temples and fascinating cultural museums - Miaoli County offers something for all travellers.
Get cultured at Miaoli’s museums. From the Miaoli Railway Museum to the Huoyan Mountain Ecology Museum, the county features several museums detailing the local history and culture. Learn about the region’s indigenous traditions at the Museum of Saisiyat Folklore and visit the Zaochiao Charcoal Museum before admiring the intricately carved works of the Sanyi Wood Sculpture Museum.
Visit the Zhonggang Cihyu Temple. Constructed in 1685, this ancient place of worship is the oldest Matsu temple in Miaoli County. The temple houses several precious artefacts and religious treasures and hosts a procession of elaborately decorated sedan chairs each September.
See the historic Longteng Bridge. One of Miaoli County’s most famous landmarks is the ruined Longteng Bridge, which once connected Tai-an and Sheng-shing stations across the Yutengping River. Constructed during the Japanese colonial period, it was famously cemented using glutinous rice. The bridge is now enveloped by beautiful white-flowered tung trees that bloom each spring.
Explore Shei-Pa National Park. Stretching from the Da-an River Valley to the soaring peak of Xueshan, Shei-Pa National Park encompasses more than 76,000 hectares of spectacular mountain scenery. Follow the hiking trail that leads to the 3,866-metre-high summit of Snow Mountain or soak up the majestic views from the Wuling Farm.
Getting around Miaoli County
Miaoli County is a 30-minute drive from Taichung International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia. High-speed trains connect to destinations across Taiwan’s west coast from the Miaoli railway station, with several smaller stations located throughout the county. Buses travel throughout Miaoli County and taxis are readily available.