Rainbow Village is an iconic array of houses painted with vibrant colors and whimsical designs. This unique cultural landmark was single-handedly painted by a former soldier named Huang Yung-Fu, often referred to as Grandpa Rainbow. He transformed the once-grey military dependents’ village into a bright and lively art piece. While exploring the small area, visitors can admire the different paintings filled with cartoons, animals, and doodles that represent stories of local culture and history. It's an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts and anyone looking to immerse themselves in a piece of living history.
Designed by the renowned Japanese architect Toyo Ito, the National Taichung Theater is an architectural wonder featuring a curved-wall design that lacks any beams or columns, known as the 'Sound Cave' concept. Visitors can participate in guided tours of its interior spaces, showcasing the building's unique structure, acoustics, and aesthetic design. The theater regularly hosts a variety of performances, from operas to concerts and plays, providing cultural enrichment. There's also an upscale restaurant and café on the premises for visitors to enjoy a meal or a drink during their visit.
Fengjia Night Market, situated adjacent to Feng Chia University, is one of the largest and most popular night markets in Taiwan. With its bustling atmosphere, it's a hub of Taiwanese street food, fashion, and trinkets. As visitors walk through the narrow alleys, they can indulge in a variety of local delicacies such as stinky tofu, bubble tea, and the famous 'Fengjia pork ball'. Besides the mouth-watering snacks, there are plenty of shops selling affordable clothes and accessories. It's an essential experience for foodies and shoppers alike, providing a raw taste of Taiwanese culture and lifestyle.
The Taichung Metropolitan Opera House is not only a place for high-quality performances but also popular for its unique architecture, which is a spectacle in itself. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Toyo Ito, the structure boasts organic, cave-like interiors which are free-flowing without the constraints of columns or traditional floors. Visitors can enjoy performances ranging from operas to theatrical plays, or participate in a guided tour to explore this architectural marvel. The tours offer insights into the concept, design, and acoustic features of the building famously referred to as the 'Sound Cave.'
The 921 Earthquake Museum of Taiwan serves as both an educational facility and a somber reminder of the devastating 1999 earthquake. The museum is situated on the former site of the Guangfu Junior High School campus, where visitors can see preserved earthquake damage firsthand. Its exhibits include a quake simulation experience, education on seismic activity, and accounts of the 921 earthquake and its effects on Taiwan. Through interactive displays and informative galleries, the museum aims to promote disaster awareness and preparedness. It's a moving and educational visit for anyone interested in geology, history or sociology.
Dakeng Scenic Area is renowned for its extensive hiking trails and beautiful landscapes just outside the Taichung city center. The area provides a great escape into nature with ten different trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, leading up the hills. Trails 1 to 4 are particularly famous for their challenging log stairways, while the higher numbered trails are gentler. The scenic area presents hikers with breathtaking views of the city and lush vegetation. It's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience some of Taiwan's natural beauty and to get a good workout simultaneously.
Taichung Park is the oldest park in Taichung and showcases a serene lake as its centerpiece. One popular activity in the park is boating on the lake, where visitors can enjoy a leisurely time paddling in the tranquil waters surrounded by greenery. The park is home to beautiful pavilions and arched bridges, and while boating, one can admire the park’s scenery from an entirely different perspective. It’s a family-friendly activity that offers a break from the bustling city life and a chance to relax amidst nature. In addition to boating, the park itself is great for leisurely walks and picnics.
The Calligraphy Greenway is a green urban space that stretches between the National Museum of Natural Science and the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts. It's a cultural corridor in the city's heart, offering beautiful walking paths, art installations, and open spaces for public performances. Along the way, visitors can find boutique shops, stylish cafes, and restaurants. The Greenway is not just a place for leisurely strolls but also for experiencing the vibrant city life and artistic atmosphere of Taichung. This public space often hosts cultural events, art fairs, and exhibitions that reflect the creative spirit of the city.
Tunghai University is not only an academic institution but also a popular attraction in Taichung, due to its historic and architecturally significant campus. The campus's centerpiece is the Luce Chapel, designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei. This structure is famous for its unique modernist architecture. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the spacious grounds, which are home to various art installations, scenic spots, and diverse plant species. The serene and beautifully maintained university grounds provide a peaceful environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the architectural beauty and landscapes.
Carton King Creativity Park is a unique theme park where almost everything, from the decor to the furniture and even the plates, is made from cardboard. This innovative concept provides a unique aesthetic experience and raises awareness about recycling and repurposing materials. Visitors can marvel at the intricate cardboard creations, dine-in restaurants with cardboard seating and tableware, and children can play with cardboard toys. The park also features a gift shop where one can buy DIY cardboard kits and other creative goods. This distinctive destination offers a fun and educational outing for families and environment-conscious travelers.
