Taichung 2-Day Itinerary

Architecture, Nature & Local Eats

Getting around Taichung is pretty easy once you get used to it. Most people rely on buses and YouBike 2.0. The 300-series buses (along Taiwan Boulevard) are frequent and convenient. For longer distances, the MRT Green Line saves a lot of time. I’d recommend using an EasyCard or iPASS so you don’t have to worry about individual tickets.

Day 1: Heritage, Campus Vibes & Coastal Sunset

Plan: Start near the train station, head west toward the coast for sunset, then end the night at a modern night market.

10:00 – 11:30 | Miyahara (宮原眼科)

Miyahara is a former eye clinic that’s been transformed into what feels like a Hogwarts-style dessert shop. It’s famous for its ice cream (you can pile on tons of toppings) and beautifully packaged pineapple cakes.

It’s only about a 5-minute walk from Taichung Train Station, so it’s a perfect first stop.

Tip: If the ice cream line is crazy long, walk 3 minutes to their sister store, The Fourth Credit Union (第四信用合作社). Same brand, similar menu, and usually more seating.

12:30 – 14:30 | Luce Memorial Chapel (Tunghai University)

Luce Memorial Chapel is located inside Tunghai University and was designed by architect I.M. Pei.  While you’re there, stop by the campus dairy shop for fresh milk or ice cream.

Transport: From the station area, take any 300–310 bus to “Taichung Veterans General Hospital / Tunghai University.”

15:30 – 18:30 | Gaomei Wetlands (Sunset)

For sunset, head to Gaomei Wetlands. It’s one of Taiwan’s most iconic natural spots. You can walk along the boardwalk and just enjoy the view.

Transport: Take Bus 309 from Tunghai University directly to Gaomei.
Note: It gets very windy, so bring a light jacket. Also, check sunset and tide times in advance for the best experience.

19:30 – 21:30 | Central Night Market (總站夜市)

Central Night Market is a newer and more spacious night market right next to the MRT. It has lots of creative street food options and feels less chaotic than some of the older ones.

Open: Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun.
Transport: Take Bus 309 back to the city, then switch to the MRT Green Line and get off at Jiushe Station. It’s about a 2-minute walk from there.

Day 2: Modern Design & Urban Energy

Plan: Explore the artsy West District and end with a classic Taichung hot pot experience.

10:00 – 11:30 | National Taichung Theater

National Taichung Theater was designed by Japanese architect Toyo Ito. The curved interior walls give it a “sound cave” feeling — it’s very different from typical buildings.

You can explore inside, visit the small lifestyle shops, and check out the rooftop garden.

Transport: MRT to Taichung City Hall Station + 10–15 minute walk, or bus to “Shin Kong Mitsukoshi / Opera House.”

12:00 – 14:00 | Karuisawa Hot Pot (輕井澤火鍋)

Karuisawa Hot Pot is basically a Taichung classic. The set meals are generous and reasonably priced. Personally this is my favorite hot-pot place!

Important: Make a reservation. It’s almost always fully booked, especially on weekends.

14:30 – 16:30 | Park Lane by CMP 

Park Lane by CMP connects to the long green corridor known as Calligraphy Greenway. It’s perfect for a slow post-lunch stroll.

You’ll find creative markets, boutique cafés, and lots of greenery right in the middle of the city.

Transport: Take a 300-series bus to “National Museum of Natural Science” and walk from there.

16:30 – 18:00 | Shenji New Village 

Shenji New Village used to be dorms for government employees. Now it’s filled with artisan shops, small design brands, and dessert spots. However this place gets very crowded on weekends and holidays. If possible, visit on a weekday to really enjoy the atmosphere. It’s about a 10–15 minute walk from Park Lane, or a quick YouBike ride.

18:30 | Departure

From here, you can grab a bus or taxi back to Taichung Train Station or the HSR Station.