Hsinchu, which lies 80 kilometers south of Taipei, has a population of 502,000 with an additional 100,000 commuters working at the Hsinchu Science Park. The park, which was founded in 1980, is one of the biggest and most modern in the world.

As the oldest city in the North, Hsinchu has numerous historical landmarks, including the East Gate - a granite structure constructed during the 1820s - the Taoist Temple to the City God - built in 1748, it has many colorful frescos - and 18 Peaks Mountain Park, which has a variety of trees and flowers as well as a panoramic view of the city.

Hsinchu Municipal Glass Museum, situated in a historical building from 1936, is very active and lively promoting glass industry and artwork. Often they have special art exhibition with local glass artists and workshops together with the permanent collection. Information is given in English and Chinese. Entrance fee NT$ 20. Dongda Rd. Sec 1, # 2. Tel (03) 562-6091. Open 9 am– 5 pm Wednesday– Sunday.

The Fangliao Yimin Temple, which is 10 kilometers northeast of Hsinchu, is the spiritual center of the island's Hakka community. From Hsinchu's high-speed train station, take the Fangliau bus and get off at the Yimin temple station. The address is Yimin Rd, Sec. 3, # 360 in Sinpu Township. The telephone number is (03) 588-2238.

Fans of Hakka culture can also head to Beipu - 20 kilometers southeast of Hsinchu. This center of Hakka culture has a number of unique buildings and teahouses, especially around the Cihtian Temple.