Chiayi is more than just Fenchihu – Five fun attractions for a one-day trip

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team, compiled and reported

Aside from the well-known Fenchihu and Alishan Scenic Area, the Chiayi region boasts many other worthwhile attractions and areas to explore. Liujiao Township is home to the most famous Suantou Sugar Refinery, hailed as Taiwan’s treasure trove, where its historic buildings and towering chimneys are the most eye-catching landmarks in the township. Below are five must-visit spots in Liujiao Township to give you a taste of the diverse charm of Chiayi.

1. Suantou Sugar Refinery
The Suantou Sugar Refinery was built in 1906 and was one of Taiwan’s three major sugar refineries during the Japanese colonial period. After being affected by a typhoon, it ceased sugar production and was transformed into a leisure-oriented tourist sugar refinery. It has since integrated Taiwan Sugar’s unique narrow-gauge railway to develop as the “Sugarcane Square Cultural Park.”

The century-old sugar factory within the park is its biggest highlight. With the guidance of a docent, visitors can learn about the sugar-making process. The refinery also features quaint wooden buildings and Japanese-style dormitory complexes, which hold significant historical value. Visitors can also take a ride on the narrow-gauge train.

2. Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum
Located near the Suantou Sugar Refinery, the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum leverages the museum’s rich collection and various international exhibitions to actively fulfill and showcase the functions of a museum, including collection, exhibition, research, conservation, and education. In addition to its bright glass-curtain main building, there is also the “Zhi Mei Bridge” featuring a double-arched bridge deck, integrating elements such as lakes and elegant bridges to present the understated beauty of traditional Chinese landscape painting.

3. Narrow-Gauge Train Station