Begin your journey through Hsinchu’s cultural and natural treasures at Neiwan Riverside Park. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and listen to the gentle sound of the Youluo River. Walk along the riverside trails, see children playing near the shallow waters, and locals enjoying morning exercises. Admire the seasonal blossoms painting the scenery with soft colors.
Continue to Hexing Station, one of Taiwan’s most charming small railway stations. Known as the “Love Station,” its nostalgic Japanese wooden structure and surrounding cherry blossoms make it a favorite stop for photography lovers. Stand on the platform as the trains slowly pass by and sense the blend of romance and history that has been preserved here for decades. Leave a handwritten note or love token, adding a personal touch to the station’s already warm atmosphere.
Next, head to Beipu Old Street, a bustling hub of Hakka heritage. Walk along the narrow lanes lined with red-brick houses and encounter vendors selling lei cha (traditional Hakka ground tea), mochi, and dried goods. Smell the aroma of roasted peanuts and local snacks, while the sound of conversations in the Hakka dialect creates an authentic cultural immersion.
Visit the elegant Jiang A Xin Mansion, a grand baroque-style residence that reflects the wealth and influence of one of Beipu’s most prominent families during the Japanese colonial period. Admire intricate wood carvings, colorful stained glass, and the blend of Western and Chinese architectural elements.
Another gem of Hakka cultural heritage is the Xinjiang Tianshuitang, a traditional ancestral hall with refined architecture and deep symbolism. With its sweeping tiled roof, carved stone lions, and detailed wooden beams, the hall embodies Confucian values of filial piety and respect for ancestors. Visitors are often struck by the solemn yet graceful atmosphere, where incense lingers and cultural ceremonies are still practiced. It serves as both a historical landmark and a living space for preserving traditions.
Conclude your journey at the breathtaking Emei Lake, a serene reservoir surrounded by rolling hills and forested landscapes. Walk along its trails and see reflections of clouds dancing on the lake’s surface, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. At certain times of the year, cherry blossoms and lotus flowers bloom around the lake, enhancing its beauty.
