If I had to pick just one town to explore in Changhua, my top recommendation would definitely be Lukang! Once a bustling port town, Lukang feels like a living history museum—just stepping into its old streets is like traveling back in time. And with the annual Lukang Dragon Boat Festival just around the corner, the town is about to be immersed in festive energy, making it an even more unforgettable experience.
Contents
◦ Changhua Travel Guide
01｜Transportation in Changhua
🚄 Taiwan High Speed Rail
🛵 Scooter Rental in Changhua
🚗 Cross-city Chartered One-day Tour From Taipei
02｜Popular Attractions in Changhua
🎫 Gushengwu Park Ticket in Changhua
🎫 Magical Mushrooms Tribe Ticket and DIY Experience in Changhua
🎫 Tickets for Juan Musen Living Museum
🎫 Yunhe Starry Sky View Restaurant Ticket
🎫 Cheng Mei Cultural Park Ticket in Changhua
03｜Things To Do in Changhua
🏕️ Glamping in Changhua by Ouxiang Manor Hotel
🍪 DIY Experience at Taiwan You Good School of Cookie
◦ The Past of Lukang
Lukang’s history dates back to before the Qing Dynasty, when its wide port could accommodate hundreds of merchant ships. Its close proximity to Fujian made it the primary landing point for immigrants from China, quickly turning it into a flourishing commercial hub. By the Qianlong to Daoguang eras, Lukang had reached its golden age, filled with thriving businesses and wealthy merchants.
However, as time passed, the port gradually silted up, making it difficult for ships to dock. Without a major transportation route passing through, Lukang's economic importance declined. But this decline turned out to be an unexpected blessing—since the town was spared from large-scale urban development, much of its historic architecture, traditional streets, and artisanal crafts have been preserved to this day.
◦ Lukang Dragon Boat Festival
The Dragon Boat Festival is one of Taiwan’s most iconic traditional holidays. Every year, cities across the island host a variety of festive events to celebrate this special occasion. But if you ask me which place is truly worth visiting, my answer is always the same—Lukang. Lukang’s Dragon Boat Festival celebrations began in 1977, originally focusing on folk performances and traditional arts. Over nearly 50 years, it has evolved into a grand festival that blends history, culture, and local charm.
For me, the most thrilling part is the International Dragon Boat Championships. From the intense warm-ups and the exciting team entrances to the final, heart-pounding sprint to the finish line, every moment fills me with excitement!
But Lukang offers more than just dragon boat races. Visitors can also try out various traditional folk games and experience the unique Luban Feast. This grand banquet is not only a tribute to craftsmanship but also an important event for preserving and passing down traditional skills.
◦ Attractions in Lukang
01｜Lukang Tianhou Temple
Lukang Tianhou Temple was built in 1591, during the late Ming Dynasty, making it over 400 years old. Today, it is recognized as a national historic site. Back then, Lukang was experiencing a golden age of trade, with countless merchant ships arriving and departing. This prosperity allowed the temple to flourish as a major religious center, with ample resources to craft its intricate architecture. Every beam and pillar was meticulously carved by master artisans, making it a site worth admiring in detail.
The most awe-inspiring treasure of the temple is the Black-Faced Mazu enshrined in the main hall. Originally, six statues of this founding Mazu were created in Meizhou, Fujian, and were sent to various locations, including Ningbo, China; Malacca, Malaysia; and Lukang, Taiwan. However, due to war and cultural changes, the Lukang statue is the only one that remains today, making it incredibly rare and precious.
Lukang Tianhou Temple Opening Hours: 0600-2200 No. 430, Zhongshan Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua
02｜Luban Feast
One of the most unique traditions of Lukang’s Dragon Boat Festival is the Luban Feast. First held in 1996, this event is not only a major gathering for artisans but has also been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. The feast is dedicated to Luban, the revered patron saint of craftsmen. Every year, around the fifth lunar month (Luban’s birthday), artisans from all over Taiwan come together to showcase their finest works from the past year. These exquisite handmade pieces are placed on an offering table as part of the “Feast for the Master”, blending faith with craftsmanship in a truly special way. Visitors not only get to admire incredible handmade creations but also gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage behind them.
03｜Lukang Longshan Temple
In addition to the bustling Tianhou Temple, Lukang is also home to the historic Longshan Temple, which has stood for over 200 years. Dedicated to Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy), it is the largest and best-preserved temple in Taiwan’s Longshan Temple system, earning it recognition as a national historic site.
The origins of Lukang Longshan Temple trace back to Quanan Longshan Temple in Quanzhou, Fujian. In the early days, immigrants from Quanzhou brought their hometown beliefs to Taiwan, leading to the establishment of several Longshan Temples across the island. These temples, all linked to the original in Quanzhou, can be found in Tamsui, Wanhua, Lukang, Tainan, and Fengshan, forming an important spiritual network.
Lukang Longshan Temple Opening Hours: 0700-2000 No. 81, Jinmen Ln., Lukang Township, Changhua
04｜Lukang Old Street
Among Taiwan’s many touristy old streets, Lukang Old Street is one of the few that still feels authentic to me. The well-preserved red-brick houses and alleyways exude a nostalgic charm, while the local snacks and street vendors offer something truly special.
In its heyday, Lukang thrived as a major trading hub, with merchants and sailors flocking to the bustling port. Naturally, the streets near the river became the center of commerce and prosperity. Today, these historic districts are more than just clusters of old houses. With the rise of tourism, many homeowners have transformed their residences into unique shops and cafés, allowing visitors to not only explore the past but also pause and enjoy the moment.
Lukang Old Street Opening Hours: 1000-1800 No. 3, Putou St., Lukang Township, Changhua
05｜Banbian Well
Walking along Yaolin Street, you'll come across a uniquely designed old house at No. 12, and right beside it, you'll find the famous Half-Sided Well. Despite its name, the well isn’t literally cut in half. Instead, it is divided by a wall—one half is inside the house, while the other half is accessible from the street. In the past, not every household could afford to dig a well, so the owners of this house intentionally left half of it outside to provide water for their neighbors. This thoughtful design reflects the strong sense of community that once thrived in Lukang.
Banbian Well No. 12, Yaolin St., Lukang Township, Changhua
06｜Nine-Turn Lane
Lukang is home to several Nine-Turn Lanes, but the most famous and best-preserved is Jinsheng Lane. Its winding and maze-like design makes it stand out among the rest. In the past, these twisting alleys served two important purposes: to deter thieves and to block the strong northeast monsoon winds. By making the paths narrow and curved, early residents ensured better protection for their homes.
As you stroll through Jinsheng Lane, you’ll also notice an elevated corridor bridging across the alley. This was once a gathering place for scholars and poets, where they would meet to exchange ideas and engage in literary discussions.
Nine-Turn Lane Jinsheng Ln., Lukang Township, Changhua
07｜Hu Sheng Glass Temple
Among Taiwan’s many traditional temples, the Hu Sheng Glass Temple stands out as truly one of a kind. Completed in 2012, it is the world’s only Mazu temple made of glass. This breathtaking structure seamlessly blends Taiwanese glass craftsmanship with folk religion, creating a stunning display of creativity and innovation.
Hu Sheng Glass Temple Opening Hours: 0800-1900 No. 28, Lugong S. 4th Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua
08｜Taiwan Glass Gallery
After visiting the Glass Mazu Temple, don’t rush off just yet—right next door is the Taiwan Glass Gallery, another must-see attraction. This gallery showcases a diverse collection of glass artworks, offering visitors a chance to admire the beauty of glass craftsmanship while also exploring the endless possibilities of this fascinating material.
Taiwan Glass Gallery Opening Hours: 0800-1700 No. 30, Lugong S. 4th Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua
◦ Restaurants and Snacks in Lukang
01｜A-Jhen Pork Buns
When it comes to Lukang’s famous buns, you can’t miss A-Jhen Pork Buns on Zhongshan Road. More than just a local delicacy, this legendary shop is the pioneer that sparked Lukang’s pork bun craze.
Its delicious flavors have won over not only locals but also Japanese food lover, who became so obsessed that he asked to be an apprentice seven times. Moved by his persistence, the owner finally shared the secret recipe, allowing Lukang’s beloved pork buns officially land in Tokyo in 2023.
A-Jhen Pork Buns Opening Hours: 0900-1900 No. 71, Zhongshan Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua
02｜Lao Long Shi Pork Buns
Compared to the chewy and firm texture of A-Jhen Pork Buns, I personally prefer Lao Long Shi’s version, which has a thinner wrapper and a more generous filling. With just one bite, the juicy pork filling melts in your mouth, perfectly complemented by the aroma of shiitake mushrooms and scallions—a truly satisfying experience.
Lao Long Shi Pork Buns Opening Hours: 0800-1900, closed on Monday. No. 117, Sanmin Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua
03｜Mian Mian Cha Cha
Miancha (roasted flour tea) was once a staple in Taiwanese households—serving as breakfast, a snack, and even a milk powder substitute. But at Mian Mian Cha Cha, miancha is no longer just a traditional bowl of hot, stirred flour tea. Here, it’s been creatively transformed into miancha shaved ice, miancha latte, and even topped with pudding! Every bite carries the familiar sweet, nostalgic flavor, yet with a surprising twist. I couldn’t help but exclaim, "Who knew miancha could be this versatile?"
Mian Mian Cha Cha Opening Hours: 1200-1830 No. 7, Minsheng Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua
◦ Flying Over Taiwan
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◦ Other Areas in Changhua
➤ Ershui | A Golden Tunnel Adorned by Spring
➤ Puyan | The Hometown of Glutinous Rice and Champion Caps