Hsinchu, an area of 104 km² with a population of 502.000 (2008), is situated 80 kilometers south of Taipei. It is estimated that an additional 100.000 people work in the city, mainly at the modern high-tech Hsinchu Science Park. The Science Park was founded in 1980 and is today one of the biggest in the world.
With its 400 years of history, the city is the oldest in the northern part of the country. During the Japanese era (1895 - 1945) Hsinchu was the main center between Taipei and Taichung. The same period also saw the beginnings of the famous Yingge glass production which developed to become one of Hsinchu's principal industries producing decorative glass of worldwide renown. The Craft Glass Museum is located in the centre of the glass shopping area; open Wed - Sun 9.00am - 5.00pm. (Museum address: Dungda Rd. Sec. 1, No. 2, Hsinchu)
The Eighteen Peaks Mountain Park with its variety of trees and flowers offers a panoramic view of the city. Hsinchu's 17 km long coastline has a bicycle path stretching the entire length. The city's historic landmark, The East Gate, was built of granite in the 1820's with a characteristic arched entrance. The Temple of the City God is typically Taoist, built in 1748, with many colorful frescos.
Hsinchu Science Park (HSP) was founded in December 1980 and focusing principally on semiconductors. HSP was established to attract talented, highly qualified people to Taiwan who consider the most modern, and high-tech industry their priority; thus promoting both Taiwan's economy and its status on the global market. HSP has an international recoginized reputation to the point of becoming a model for other science parks around the world.
Hsinchu county can be considered the gateway to Hakka country, of which the town of Beipu, situated about 20 km southeast of Hsinchu city, is the center. Although Beipu has become a tad touristy, a visit is very worth while. The area is full of old buildings and teahouses especially around the Cihtian Temple.
The most traditional Hakka food, served in almost every teahouse and restaurant in Beipu, is the rice dumplings - tong ye, eaten accompained with stir-fried vegetables and soup.
About 10 km northeast of Hsinchu city is Fangliao Yimin Temple, the first and most famous Yimin temple in Taiwan and spiritual centre for the Hakka community on the island. To get there, take the Taiwan High Speed Rail to Hsinchu Station and transfer to the Fangliau line bus. Get off the bus at Yimin temple station.
Yimin Rd. Sec 3, 360, Sinpu Township, Hsinchu County
Tel: 03-588 2238