Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Christopher, compiled and reported
Although you might not be able to arrange a vacation in the mountains or forests during a typical weekend, you can seek out hidden secret getaways in the suburbs. Aside from the vibrant urban areas of Taichung, nearby districts such as Daya, Houli, Da'an, and Dajia are home to rich natural beauty and cultural landscapes. Thanks to the rapid development of the internet, many overlooked attractions have gradually been discovered, and your list of must-visits can keep growing. Below are ten of the best suburban spots in Taichung, handpicked by travelers as great options for a weekend mini-trip.
One of Taichung’s near-town secret spots: the grassland atop Zhentou Mountain, where the mountaintop serves as an artillery observation post (Photo provided by Huang Feng)
Zhentou Mountain Grassland
Zhentou Mountain in Dajia District, once scarred by fire, not only features vast grasslands but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Dajia District. From here, you can take in the beautiful scenery of Waipu District, Dajia District, and the coastal area of Da'an District. This grassland area is currently rarely visited and is one of the few undeveloped spots, with its wide-open vistas bringing peace to the mind.
[Info]
Location: Lane 1158, Section 1, Zhongshan Road, Dajia District, Taichung City → Turn right at Chenggong Road → Follow the road and take the right fork when you see one (24.356773, 120.640033)
Zhentou Mountain Grassland (Photo provided by Huang Feng)
Juikui Residence
Juikui Residence, a city-designated historic site in Wuri District and a popular spot for photoshoots, has nearly a century of history. With its magnificent Baroque architectural style, it was a representation of luxury homes in its time and attracts many visitors. The Taichung City Government is currently restoring and repurposing Juikui Residence, with completion scheduled for the end of 2018.
[Info]
Address: No. 36, Lane 405, Xuetian Road, Wuri District, Taichung City
Wuri District’s city-designated historic site and photoshoot hotspot Juikui Residence (Photo source: Taichung City Government)
IBS Bodhisattva Temple
Bodhisattva Temple in Dali District features a simple yet modern design. Inside, it serves as a Zen Buddhist practice site. Using contemporary exposed concrete techniques, it breaks away from traditional temple architecture. Though the combination may seem conflicting, it equally embodies a sense of serenity—making it a perfect place for spiritual cleansing.
[Info]
Address: No. 147, Yonglong Road, Dali District, Taichung City
* Please keep your voice down and avoid loud noises when visiting
IBS Bodhisattva Temple, with its contemporary exposed concrete technique that breaks from traditional temple forms (Photo source: IBS Bodhisattva Temple)
Haitian Bridge
One of Taichung’s popular photoshoot spots, Haitian Bridge features a blue-and-white color scheme paired with a mountain-curved design. In sunlight, it seems to blend seamlessly with the blue sky and white clouds. At night, its colorful lights are even more dazzling—no matter how you shoot it, it’s beautiful.
[Info]
Address: Intersection of Songzhu 5th Road and Section 3, Hangan East Road, Beitun District, Taichung City
A photoshoot hotspot that looks great both day and night — Haitian Bridge (Photo source: Taichung City Government)
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