Chiayi Travel Guide
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I had the opportunity to visit the beautiful city of Chiayi last fall and stayed for about 2 nights. I tasted some incredibly delicious food and crisp Oolong tea and had a chance to explore an amazing part of Taiwan that I never knew I would be able to experience.
Apart from the famous Alishan National Forest, which is a must-visit for tourists in Chiayi, there is so much more to this place than meets the eye.
Although there are separate administrative entities for Chiayi City and Chiayi County, I have combined them in this blog post for ease of reference.
In this post, I will dive a bit deeper into Chiayi's history, share some tips for visiting, recommend places to dine, explore, and stay, and provide some helpful tips.
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brief history
Long before the busy markets and shops filled this area, Chiayi was home to indigenous tribes like the Pepo and the Tsou. In the 17th century, Dutch merchants with a penchant for deerskins set their sights on Chiayi's prime location, taking control for a period.
During the Ming Dynasty, China saw a power shift with the arrival of Admiral Koxinga, who led a force to defeat the Dutch and reclaim Taiwan for China.
After World War I, Japan's rule from 1895 to 1945 left a complex legacy. While it involved suppressing Taiwanese resistance, it also brought the iconic Alishan Forest Railway, a 72-kilometer train that connected Chiayi City to the timber-rich mountains and boosted the city's economy.
Following World War II and China's civil war, Japan left and the Kuomintang (KMT) fled mainland China and established themselves in Taiwan in 1949. This influx significantly impacted Chiayi's demographics and culture. Today, Chiayi thrives as a modern city with a rich history woven into its fabric, but still remains true as Taiwan and nothing else but Taiwan.
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know before you go!
LANGUAGE
Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but many locals also speak Taiwanese Hokkien.
CURRENCY
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$). You won't need to worry about hidden fees — prices on menus and tags usually include tax.
TIPPING
Tipping isn't customary in Taiwan. Restaurants may automatically add a 10% - 15% service charge for large groups, but otherwise, paying the bill amount is perfectly acceptable.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
Fire Department & Ambulance: 119
Police: 110
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plan your trip
Best Time to Visit
Chiayi welcomes visitors all year round, but the best time for you depends on your preferences:
SPRING (March - May)
Enjoy pleasant temperatures with blooming flowers and fewer crowds.SUMMER (June - August)
Brace yourself for hot, humid weather and the occasional typhoon. If you can handle the heat, hotel rates might be lower during this season.FALL (September - November)
Traditionally the best weather, but recent global warming trends might make it feel hotter than usual. Still a great time to visit for outdoor activities.WINTER (December - February)
My favorite time to explore Taiwan, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. However, be prepared for potentially higher airfare.
Getting Around
Chiayi offers convenient ways to navigate:
WALKING
BUS
The public bus system is affordable and connects most areas within the city and county.
TAXI
Taxis are readily available for shorter distances or reaching specific destinations beyond bus routes.
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recommended experiences
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where to dine
Though I haven't tried out the specific restaurants known for their iconic dishes, here are three of the main iconic dishes and tea you must try when you’re in Chiayi:
Turkey Rice (火雞肉飯 - Huǒ jī ròu fàn)
Don't let the name fool you! This beloved local dish features tender, shredded turkey on a bed of rice drizzled with savory sauce.Fish Head Stew (沙鍋魚頭 - Shā guō yú tóu)
This hearty stew boasts a flavorful broth simmered with a whole fish head, vegetables, and tofu.Alishan High Mountain Tea (阿里山高山茶 - Ā lì shān gāo shān chá)
No Chiayi food adventure is complete without trying this world-renowned tea. Grown in the pristine mountain climate of Alishan, this oolong tea has a delicate aroma, a refreshing taste, and a beautiful light color. You definitely have to try their tea and buy their tea leaves as memories for yourself and gifts for others!
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where to explore
Chiayi, known for its scenic spots and nature, is perfect for a city getaway. There are a ton of hiking spots to explore, including their most famous attraction, Alishan National Forest!
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where to stay
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find your perfect place with Agoda
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check out my Taichung travel vlog
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