Taichung is spread out, so where you sleep decides how much time you spend in taxis. The city is not huge in tourist terms, but its best sights sit in three distinct areas, and each suits a different kind of trip. This guide explains the main areas and ties them to the five hotels in this market.
Xitun: architecture, night markets and shopping
Xitun is the modern western district, home to the National Taichung Theater, large department stores and the Fengjia Night Market streets around Feng Chia University. It is lively in the evening and has the widest choice of restaurants and cafes. Millennium Hotel Taichung is the splurge here, a 5-star hotel about 0.4 miles from the theatre with free self-parking and a Club Level lounge. Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung is the family pick, with an outdoor pool, a children's pool, a free kids club and on-site hot springs by reservation. Tempus Hotel Taichung is the value choice, with spacious rooms and good reviews at a moderate price.
West District: museums, the greenway and cafes
The West District is central and has the National Museum of Natural Science, the Calligraphy Greenway, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Park Lane by CMP dining area. It suits travellers who want to walk or cycle between sights and enjoy cafe stops. The Splendor Hotel Taichung, at 1049 Jianxing Road, is a mid-range option with a full-service spa, free parking and free WiFi, and it works well for drivers and couples who value a quieter base with the museum district nearby. Transit is mostly by bus and taxi here, so factor in short rides.
Station area: budget and rail access
The area around Taichung Station is the practical base for anyone relying on trains and buses. Cityinn Hotel Plus Taichung Station Branch, about 0.1 miles from the station, is the budget pick, with a 9.2 guest rating, a Taiwanese buffet breakfast, 24-hour check-in and low prices. Miyahara and the old station district are a short walk away, and taxis and buses leave from the station for the museum district and Xitun. Station-area rooms can pick up noise, so ask for a higher floor or quiet room.
Which area for which trip
First-timers who want the highlights with little travelling should choose the station area or the West District. Food lovers and architecture fans will enjoy Xitun. Families with younger children will find the Evergreen Laurel's pool and kids club very helpful. Couples who want a special stay should look at the Millennium, and those planning day trips to Sun Moon Lake or Cingjing Farm can choose any area, because tours pick up from hotels across the city, so check pickup points when you book.
Booking tips
Weekends and holidays fill the best hotels, so reserve early, and compare room-only and breakfast rates, since the buffet is a highlight at several of these hotels. Check parking if you plan to drive, and confirm facilities such as pools and spas for your dates on the booking page. Taxis are inexpensive in Taichung, so a base slightly off your main sights is rarely a problem.
