Farming rice waves and exploring West Lake Scenic Area — a super fun one-day town getaway

By / Scenic Spots Home (compiled report)
 
Located in the western part of Miaoli, West Lake Township is predominantly inhabited by the Hakka ethnic group and boasts a rich Hakka cultural heritage. Its rural lanes and beautiful mountain forests offer many great spots for leisure and entertainment. Bring your family for a weekend trip to West Lake Scenic Area.

Golden Dragon Kiln started as a traditional kiln business and usually produces items such as wine jars, water tanks, flower vases, and household pottery. In this beautiful garden nestled deep in the mountains, travelers can experience the joy of working with clay firsthand, learning about the traditional pottery-making process through techniques like wheel throwing or hand-molding to create a unique ceramic piece.
 
Address: No. 26, Jiufen, Wuhu Village, West Lake Township, Miaoli County
Hours: 09:00–17:00, closed on Mondays

Rural Legend Leisure Farm is located in the Hudadong Leisure Agriculture Area of West Lake Township, Miaoli County. Situated at a higher elevation and right above the Zhong'er Expressway West Lake rest stop, it offers a view of what is claimed to be the most beautiful rest area in the country, with distant sights of the West Coast. The scenery becomes even more enchanting at night, with the bustling traffic on the highway, the lively crowds moving about the rest stop, and the twinkling lights of the countryside, all accompanied by the chirping of insects and birds within the farm.
 
Address: No. 17, Lane 9, Hudong Village, West Lake Township, Miaoli County
Hours: 09:00–20:00

The more accurate name for the sign here is Huanxiang Trail, also locally known as Golden Road No. 1. Compared to the original, it's a more compact version of Taitung’s Bulgaria Boulevard. Along the winding road, lush green rice paddies stretch out on both sides, and in the distance, rolling low mountains can be seen. The fields are dotted with rustic farmhouses, together forming a refreshing and serene pastoral scene.
 
Address: Miaoli County Route 33, West Lake Township, Miaoli County

Located in West Lake Township, Miaoli, Ohhana Café is a stunning hidden gem for wisteria viewing. The property features large wisteria-covered trellises and is also adorned with a beautiful sea of purple umbrellas. When spring arrives and the wisteria blooms, the café turns into a purple paradise. Not only do the wisteria flowers create a dreamy atmosphere, but even the decorations are predominantly purple, crafting a fairytale-like ambiance. The best time to visit for the flowers is around late March to early April—plan your trip accordingly.
 
Address: No. 18-5, Jingshi 1, Lane 2, Jingshi Village, West Lake Township, Miaoli County
Hours: 09:00–18:00