Hsinchu accommodation from AU$99

Hsinchu is a windy city that is popular as a location for meetings and conferences, and has a large community of expats. This means there is an awesome international atmosphere in the city’s social attractions – restaurants, pubs, clubs and shopping venues. In between that, you can’t miss a picnic or walk around the still waters of Green Grass Lake, or hiking the easy trails of the lush Hsinchu Botanical Gardens and the thick forests of Eighteen Peaks Mountain (weekdays are less crowded). The mountain also frequently has flower festivals that sometimes open up the fascinating underground shelters built by the Japanese. Hsinchu also has a very charming and quality zoo whose recently renovated grounds are home to majestic orang-utans, bears, crocodile and more.

More adventurous travellers are going to love Hsinchu Province just as much (if not more than!) the city itself. In any season except winter, the craggy rock walls of Dabajian Mountain will call out to rock climbing enthusiasts looking for a challenge. The peak is in northern Hsinchu Province, its steep upper levels rising high above the terrain to give fantastic views. If you’re more keen on something that isn’t at such dizzying heights but still provides thrills, go to Leofoo Village Theme Park east of Hsinchu City. Don’t let the strange name fool you - this attraction has three rollercoasters, a safari with exotic animals and other fantastic rides spread over four themed areas. There is the magical Arabian Kingdom with its cool buildings and dark rides, as well as a Wild West section that turns you upside down on the Screaming Condor coaster and sends you down a raging river on the Big Canyon Rapids Ride. You’ll definitely be heading back to your Hsinchu hotel with a smile on your face.

So wot are you waiting for? Thought Taiwan was all about big city living? Think again. Book your flights to Taiwan, grab some Hsinchu accommodation and see what’s beneath the surface.