2 Days in Hsinchu, Taiwan: Where to Eat and Explore Hakka Cuisine

Join Austin Givens, also known as @eatingwhatisgiven on social media, for a two day journey through Hsinchu, Taiwan, where a globally influential semiconductor and technology hub meets rich history and Hakka heritage, revealed through bustling markets, local dishes, and the everyday food culture that defines the region. Day 1: Arrive in Hsinchu City and begin at the historic Hsinchu Railway Station, a preserved 1913 landmark. From here, take a short walk to Cheng Huang Temple, where local traditions come alive alongside delicacies such as red yeast rice meatballs, rice noodles, and grilled mochi. For lunch, stop at MICHELIN-selected Miao Kou Ya Xiang Fan, where locals queue for its smoked duck rice layered with savory sauce and tender duck shreds. Spend the afternoon exploring the old city on foot, visiting historical sites such as Ying Hsi Gate, the Hsinchu City Government, and the Confucius Temple, before continuing to the Glass Museum of Hsinchu City and Spring Pool Glass to learn about the city’s glassmaking heritage and try crafting your own piece. Dinner is at Bib Gourmand-listed Dongmen Rice Noodle Soup, known for its seafood-topped bowls and clear chicken bone broth. In the evening, retreat to MICHELIN-recommended The One Nanyuan in Hsinchu County to unwind in tranquil surroundings, with a dinner highlighting local ingredients, followed by music, cocktails, or a soothing herbal bath. Day 2: Start the morning at a slower pace at The One Nanyuan, with time to wander the courtyards and enjoy local tea and a thoughtfully prepared breakfast before heading out to explore Hakka culture. Begin at Zhudong Market in Hsinchu County, the largest traditional Hakka market in Taiwan, where local ingredients and preserved foods reflect the resourceful spirit of Hakka cuisine. In the afternoon, take the scenic Neiwan Line through the countryside and Hakka villages, stopping at Jiuzantou station to visit Bib Gourmand-listed Noon Turnip Cake, where traditional Hakka rice cakes are handmade using time-honored techniques. Continue to Neiwan Old Street to discover food stalls, local specialties and Hakk flavors and conclude the journey with dinner at MICHELIN-selected restaurant Yummy in Hsinchu City, where Taiwanese and Hakka flavors are presented with a lighter, contemporary touch, offering a comforting end to two days of exploring Hsinchu’s history and food culture. Follow us as we explore the best flavors and Hakka heritage of Hsinchu and experience a lesser-known side of Taiwan shaped by nuanced, time-honored flavors and enduring traditions. #MICHEINGuide #Hsinchu #Taiwan #FoodTravel #MICHELINGuideTW #MICHELINStar #BibGourmand #Streetfood #2DaysIn Where to Eat: Hsinchu City Miao Kou Ya Xiang Fan (Zhongshan Road): https://guide.michelin.com/tw/en/nort... Dongmen Rice Noodle Soup: https://guide.michelin.com/tw/en/nort... Yummy: https://guide.michelin.com/tw/en/nort... Hsinchu County: Noon Turnip Cake: https://guide.michelin.com/tw/en/nort... Where to Stay: The One Nanyuan: https://guide.michelin.com/tw/en/hote... Watch the video and read the full itinerary in our article: https://guide.michelin.com/tw/en/arti...