(SPOT.ph) Taipei City is probably top-of-mind when planning a visit to Taiwan. Unknown to many, the underrated municipality of Taichung lies calmly on the western side of the island. Taichung lets you experience the city life—culture, art, and cuisines—sans the busy atmosphere and the big crowd. Spend the night in this laid-back district and take a look at a different side of Taiwan.
WHERE TO GO
National Museum of Natural Science
No. 1, Guangqian Road, North District
www.nmns.edu.tw
Fee: NT $100
Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The National Museum of Natural Science is a popular recreational spot for kids and kids at heart, especially for science geeks. The museum houses a planetarium that will instantly transport you to outer space. Be sure to check out the Instagram-worthy park across the museum, which has playful illustrations of dinosaurs painted on the ground.
CMP Block Museum of Arts
71 Museum Road, West District
cmpblockmuseum.tw
Open from Wednesday to Sunday, 2 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
See installations and art pieces for free in an open space at the CMP Block Museum of Arts. You can even let your imagination and senses go wild in the select interactive artworks. You can also check out some cool shops and restaurants in the area.
Rainbow Village
Nantun District
It’s no wonder a lot of tourists flock to Rainbow Village—it's one of the most vibrant spots in Taichung. The quaint and colorful houses have cute characters painted on their walls, making every corner of the village very Instagram-friendly.
National Taichung Theater
Number 101, Section 2, Huilai Road, Xitun District
en.npac-ntt.org
Tour fee (optional): NT $100
Open from Sunday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, Saturday, and national holidays, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The National Taichung Theater’s architecture is practically a piece of art in itself, thanks to its façade and interior. The landmark has become a venue for different art performances. Aside from the large outdoor fountain, the theater has a sky garden that offers a perfect view of the city.
WHERE TO EAT
Hi-Lai Harbour
16/F, SOGO Taichung, Taiwan Boulevard, West District
www.hilai-foods.com
Open from Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
If you’re up for a bountiful buffet, Hi-Lai Harbour will satisfy your cravings for your favorite cuisines: American, Italian, Chinese, and a lot more. One thing is for sure—you won’t be able get enough of their delectable seafood dishes.
Pear Café
Number 86, Yangming Street, Fengyuan District
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Pear Café. All dishes are made with the freshest ingredients, including the best-sellers: Pastrami Special with added emmental cheese, Jerk Chicken Special, and Malted Wheat Baguette. The quiet ambience of the place makes it a perfect spot to dine in.
Fengjia Night Market
Xitun District
Open daily from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Your visit to Taiwan wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a night market. Choose from street-food options that include potato balls, toffee fruit, and chicken cutlet; and pair them with milk tea.
WHERE TO STAY
Park Hostel
Number 2, Lane 193, Section 3, Qinghai Road, Xitun District
www.parkhostel.com.tw
Rates start at NT $700
This affordable accommodation is located along the tranquil alley of Qinghai Road, ensuring privacy for guests. It's just a 10-minute walk from Fengjia Night Market so you don't have to worry about getting hungry. You can also learn a thing or two about leather-making from the hostel's resident crafters.
HOW TO GET THERE
You can take the Taiwan High-Speed Rail from Taipei to Taichung (NT$700, one way). The first train leaves Taipei Main Station at 6:26 a.m. while the last train leaves at 8:21 p.m.
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