Taiwan’s Most Challenging City to Visit? A Counterattack from Hsinchu’s 6 Attractions

▲ Xiangshan Wetlands look particularly stunning at dusk

Text & Photo / Mirror Media Weekly

A newly released online poll has crowned Hsinchu as the “most uninteresting city/county in Taiwan,” earning the top spot as a place with few attractions and even fewer food options—a so-called “gastronomic desert.” Hsinchu residents must feel so wronged—how can anyone say there’s nothing here? This article is Hsinchu’s big counterattack. Follow our reporter to discover which spots are actually worth a visit and a lot of fun!.

Counterattack Attraction 1: Xiangshan Wetlands

I joined the Chaoshan Community Development Association near the wetlands, slipped on specially made shoe covers, and stepped into the wetland. As far as the eye could see, the land shimmered with rippling water reflections under the sunlight. Walking across the wetland, your reflection mirrors that of Bolivia’s “Sky Mirror,” creating an almost surreal beauty.

The usually calm wetland reveals subtle stirrings upon closer inspection. A whole line of “sea monks”—a type of crab—emerges from the sand, nervously marching in formation. Their tiny bodies cast long shadows in the sun, and looking around, the sand is suddenly alive with the sight of a “thousand crabs charging.” When I approached for a closer look, they spiraled back underground. Observing such vibrant life up close brings a strangely healing sensation. As a city dweller, I found myself staring blankly at the scene for quite a while.

Counterattack Attraction 2: International Rice Noodle Co., Ltd.

Another highlight is the fourth-generation family-run “Hsinchu International Rice Noodle Co., Ltd.” The third-generation owner, Sister Kuo, is the only female successor in the rice noodle industry. The business is tough, and running it isn’t as easy as it used to be. Sister Kuo calmly explained her reason for taking over the family trade: “I insist on making them by hand because I want to preserve this craft!” At one time, Hsinchu had over a hundred rice noodle factories; now, only 15 remain.

▲ The tradition of drying rice noodles has been passed down for four generations—it’s truly something to cherish.

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