Is coastal Changhua only about Lukang? Here are the popular seaside attractions you need to know

By Sharelife (Sharing Life)

When it comes to Changhua, do you only think of the Eight Trigrams Mountain Giant Buddha or the old streets of Lukang? In fact, there are many new attractions along Changhua’s coastline, such as the recently popular gabled cottages and the Hanbao Wetland with its ruins-inspired style—these are all new favorites for Instagram check-ins. If you haven’t been yet, you’re missing out, Up！

Clam Barracks▲(Photo courtesy of Cairns Wei)

Along the West Coast Highway, the first stop is the time-frozen Clam Barracks. In the 1960s, the government set up a "clam farm" in Xianxi to resettle retired and discharged soldiers, allowing them to be self-sufficient and easier to manage. Around 100 people lived here at the time. After the opening of the Changbin Industrial Park, the farm and barracks were abandoned due to the construction of the West Coast Highway, leaving these 11 barracks frozen in time. Today, the Clam Barracks are not only a military site but also a cultural landscape of Changhua County, preserving their red brick walls and rustic charm. The entrance features a "Never Forget Zhuji" slogan made of shells, attracting many photographers to capture the scene.

Address: Near Lane 818, Zhonghua Road, Yupu Village, Xianxi Township, Changhua County

Rainbow Gabled Cottages
▲(Photo courtesy of Cairns Wei)

The gabled houses of Shirakawa-go in central Japan, with their thatched roofs pressed into a uniquely flat and short shape, are a must-visit spot for many tourists every year. In Xianxi, Changhua, there’s also a rainbow-colored gabled cottage complex called "Kemeng Gabled Cottages." This is actually private land owned by a developer. Before finalizing the plans, they built several colorful small houses with extended eaves covering the sides, resembling both gabled cottages and the little houses where elves might live. However, only the outdoor areas are open for photos, while the interiors are entirely off-limits. But even just the vibrant exteriors attract many visitors, with the most popular spots being the blue, green, and purple cottages.

Address: No. 140-1, Zhonghua Road, Xianxi Township, Changhua County

Glass Mazu Temple

▲(Photo courtesy of IG @fifi_igworld)

The "Husheng Temple," a glass temple entirely made of glass, is Taiwan’s only glass temple. It was created by the Taiwan Glass Museum in Changbin Industrial Park, Changhua County, in collaboration with 132 glass art teams. Based on the original design of the Lukang Tianhou Temple from the Qing Dynasty, it cost NT$70 million and used 70,000 pieces of glass. Don’t assume it’s only stunning on the outside—the dragon and tiger paintings, door gods, and even the interior statues of the Earth God and Mazu are all made of glass. At night, the glass refracts light from specially designed lamps at different angles, making it even more dazzling than during the day.

Address: No. 30, South 4th Road, Lugong, Lukang Town, Changhua County

Fubao Wetland
▲(Photo courtesy of Cairns Wei)

Unlike the high-profile Hanbao Wetland, Fubao Wetland in Fuxing Township is a hidden gem for locals. The most unique feature is the area created with driftwood, giving off a ruins-like vibe. You can also sit on driftwood-built viewing platforms to enjoy the sunset. If you have time, walk to the end of the road to take in a 270-degree view of the wetland. Occasionally, oyster-harvesting trucks pass by, dumping oyster shells into the wetland—an amusing sight. Just be careful, as the sharp shells can easily cut your skin.

Address: No. Lin63, Xinsheng Road, Fuxing Township, Changhua County

Wanggong Fishing Port
▲(Photo courtesy of Cairns Wei)

The final stop along the coast is Wanggong Fishing Port, known for its fresh, plump oysters. Here, you can join oyster-harvesting activities and literally "catch clams while washing your pants." There’s also a rainbow-painted oyster shed, though it’s hidden near the Wanggong Story House. This colorful tunnel attracts many visitors. Inside the story house, you’ll find many paintings and sculptures made from oyster shells, along with stories about oysters, blending fun with educational value.

Who says Changhua is only about mountains and old streets? Along the coast, there are these rainbow-hued emerging attractions. With fewer crowds, Changhua can be experienced in a whole new way.

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