Wedged between two rivers to the north of Tainan, Syuejia District is an urban township near Taiwan’s south-west coast. It’s home to an ornate temple fronted by a monumental, arched gate and a zoo exhibiting animal species from around the world, as well as a sprawling wetland that provides habitat for endangered black-faced spoonbills.
Things to do in Xuejia District
One of Syuejia District’s most notable landmarks is the Ciji Temple, which was constructed in 1661 and enshrines a statue of the Deity of Medicine, Baosheng Dadi. Step through its grand archway and explore the Ye Wang Koji Pottery Cultural Hall, which honours a famous koji pottery master. Coincide your visit with the 11th day of the third lunar month to experience the temple’s sacrificial offering ceremony.
Travelling with kids? Don’t miss a visit to the Wanpi World Safari Zoo, which was established in 1994 in Sanqing Village. It’s home to more than 300 animals from all corners of the globe, including pandas, raccoons and Komodo dragons. Particularly impressive is the zoo’s amphibious reptile collection, which is one of the largest in the world.
North of the district is the Xuejia Wetland Ecological Park, which occupies a former tract of farmland along the banks of a meandering river. It provides habitat for more than 130 bird species, with one of the most significant being the endangered black-faced spoonbill. Further west is the Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields, where you can see mosaic-like salt tiles and learn how salt was harvested here for more than 300 years.
Getting around Xuejia District
Syuejia District is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Tainan City and 40 minutes from Tainan Airport, which has flights to destinations across Asia. Buses connect to Syuejia and travel throughout the district, connecting most of its attractions.