Hengchun, Taiwan: The 8 most amazing attractions!
- Noa
When we think of a trip to Taiwan, most of us imagine the capital city of Taipei, or even the colorful streets of Jiufen. But a short distance south lies one of the most beautiful areas: Hengchun. It is a historic town surrounded by white beaches, stunning waterfalls for swimming and beautiful nature. Hengchun is the perfect place to experience authentic Taiwanese culture and enjoy incredible nature and silence. So what to do there and how to get there?
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Table of Contents
How to get to Hengchun
It’s quite simple to get to the town, whether it’s by public transportation or renting a car. Here are all the ways to get there:
Bus ride from Kaohsiung
The easiest and cheapest way to get to Hengchun is by bus from Kaohsiung. A two-hour journey will take you directly to the town center. Comfortable buses depart frequently from major stations in Kaohsiung, including City Council Station. It is recommended to check the schedules on local apps or ask at the Kaohsiung tourist information center.
Car rental in Taiwan
If you prefer complete flexibility in your trip, renting a car in Taiwan is a wonderful solution. Driving in Taiwan is a fairly comfortable experience, with accessible roads and English-language signs. From Taipei or Kaohsiung, you can reach the town in two to three hours of fun and beautiful driving, through green nature and blue sea. It is best to compare car rental offers with RentalCars to find the most affordable offer.
Recommended places to stay in Hengchun
If you are planning to stay in the town center, here are four highly recommended accommodations for every budget:
A cozy and sweet hotel with a view of the mountains and the ancient wall of Hengchun. The prices are affordable and the owner of the place is especially charming.
Rating of 8.8 on Booking.com
Spacious and cozy rooms Mountain view TV and air conditioner
Book now ￬
A stunning hotel that is really friendly to families with children. Affordable prices and a quiet place, run by a lovely family.
Rating of 9.6 on Booking.com Large and comfortable rooms Suitable for families Excellent breakfast option
Book now ￬
A three-star hotel with spacious and luxurious rooms. The hotel is located in a quiet area but close to the main attractions.
Rating of 9.5 on Booking.com 3 star hotel Suitable for couples and families Balcony and kitchenette in the room
Book now ￬
All the best attractions of Hengchun
In this fun town, it’s also fun to just walk around, enjoy the temples and food, or take a stroll around the area and enjoy the beaches, waterfalls, and stunning nature! So what to do in Hengchun?
Hengchun Ford Palace
A historic building from ancient times, it showcases traditional architecture that combines Taiwanese and Chinese styles. The palace is surrounded by manicured gardens and maintains an atmosphere of tranquility. It is especially recommended to come at night and see it illuminated!
Hengchun Night Market
The market takes place every Sunday and starts at around 5pm. It’s a paradise for street food lovers. Here you can sample local delicacies like stinky tofu (which is really stinky), Chinese soups and sweet Taiwanese desserts. A personal recommendation from me – if you’re planning on eating food you haven’t tried before, it’s best to have it relatively close to the restrooms.
Paradise of Deer
A magical nature experience with free-roaming deer roaming alongside visitors. You can feed the deer, pet them, and learn more about their lives. The place is perfect for families and children, and provides a rare encounter with animals in a protected and well-kept environment.
Ecological Park
A wonderful place for nature and animal lovers! Here you can see capybaras up close, learn about their lifestyle, and connect with their ecological world. Very suitable for families!
Qikong Waterfall
These waterfalls are a hidden and magical gem of the area. The place is famous for the basalt rocks that surround its amazing natural pools. Each pool has a short climb up the mountain, which ends with a jump into perfect pools! In Chinese, the place is called: 七孔瀑布(停車場).
Jialeshui Falls
Inside the Jialshui Reserve you will find a path along the sea, waterfalls, giant rocks and maybe even monkeys. The walk from the parking lot takes about half an hour, during which you will see amazing views!
Small Beach
A small, quiet beach that offers a peaceful spot to relax. A great choice for those looking to experience Taiwan’s sandy landscapes without the hustle and bustle of the big tourist beaches. However, during the summer season (June to September), it can get busy on weekends.
Kenting Baishawan
Among the most beautiful beaches in Taiwan and a perfect place to swim and relax. The beach is a fifteen-minute drive from Hengchun.
On a snorkeling trip, you will get to know the marine environment in the area, with a guide and equipment that make the experience truly comfortable.
Scuba diving or snorkeling All diving equipment included Includes insurance
Book now ￬
Restaurants in Hengchun
Throughout the town you will find mostly Taiwanese food. There are very cool restaurants and bars and delicious food.
春酩 Bar HengChun
A unique and beautiful bar with specialty cocktails and snacks. It is located inside a shop downstairs, in a sort of basement.
Lazy Cat Croffle
A cafe with amazing food and full of cute cats took over the place, which is not a rare thing to see in Taiwan.
SO FAR ! so good brunch
A wonderful place for breakfast and lunch. Their omelet sandwich is a must!
圓囍肉夾饃 - Small stall near SO FAR
Just 30 meters after So FAR, there is a small stand that serves crispy dough with chopped chicken/pork and fried with hot pepper and onion. Very tasty!
Dojubistro
A bar restaurant with excellent pizzas and great cocktails.
