Hsinchu offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore, a great number of which are centred on ancient temples, each with a unique history. Beyond historic architecture, the surrounding countryside is also rich in natural beauty, and there are a number of parks and potential daytrip destinations that keep guests here longer than they anticipated.

Beipu Cold Spring
One of two cold springs in Taiwan, this one is located in the village of Waipu. The water that gushes from the stream here is frigid at any time of the year, and a cornucopia of medicinal qualities is attributed to it. This water is said to be naturally antiseptic, and as a result it is used in skin treatments. After soaking in this spring, bathers find their skin feels refreshed and looks glossy and sleek.

Chen Huang Temple
Built in the mid-18^th century, this temple was commissioned by an officer of Tamshuen Jen Z-ing. The temple is fronted by a pair of stone-carved lions and is otherwise characterised by delicate wood carvings. Inside, it is possible to spend an hour or more simply admiring the intricately-crafted décor. This is a busy attraction ideal for people-watching in a local environment. Onsite are several vendors selling Hsinchu-style snacks and traditional souvenirs to visitors.

Chingchuan Hot Spring
This is the only hot spring of its kind in the region, and the steaming water that flows from Chingchuan Hot Spring surprisingly lacks the typical sulphur smell of other hot springs. The water, which is said to have healing properties, disappeared for a time in recent history. However, after an earthquake in 1999, the steaming water returned. Spas around Chingchuan route the water into their facilities and offer refreshing treatments.

Chingchuan Scenic Zone
Located along the road that leads to Mount Dabajian, this area was first made famous for its geo-thermal springs during the Japanese colonial period. Today, spas and hot springs still top the list of things to do here, though there is also plenty of natural beauty and four marvellous suspension bridges spanning Shangping Creek. These are the oldest suspension bridges in the township and have been very well preserved. In addition, this area is also famous for its aboriginal sites, hiking trails and waterfalls.

Chingtsao Lake Scenic Area
Only a short distance from Hsinchu city centre, this manmade lake was formed in 1956 by damming Keya Creek. Officially used as an irrigation source, the lake gets plenty of recreational attention as well. Overlooking the lake is Lingyin Temple, known in particular for its lanterns and stone columns which date to the Japanese colonial period. A road leading past the dam heads uphill to Kuchi Peak as well as the Science Industrial Park which has helped to make Hsinchu famous in recent years.

Eastern Gate
Originally built of wood, Hsinchu City's Eastern Gate has since been renovated in concrete, and the only original part of the construction is the granite base. This gate is often referred to as 'the heart of Hsinchu,' due in part to an ancient chronicle of the city that was once displayed at the gate. Despite lavish refurbishments, this gate provides an air of nostalgia that extends back several generations to the city's historic beginnings.

Fangliau Yimin Temple
This temple was built to honour the Hakka people who famously rose up to protect the community during an early and uncertain phase of the Ching dynasty's rise to power. Originally planned as a cemetery to honour those who gave their lives during this period of instability, a temple was later built in front of the grave site in 1794. A number of festivals throughout the year include the visitation of ancestors' graves behind this temple.

Guanwu Forest Park
On the edge of Hsinchu and Miaoli counties, these mist-shrouded forests are also referred to as the ‘Country of Clouds'. The mountainous road that winds through Guanwu Forest sits at roughly 6,000 feet and provides access to Ta Pa Chien Mountain. Trails cutting through the forest lead to stands of ancient trees—some 2,000 years old—along with a few waterfalls and a variety of endangered species of flora and fauna. The views are best from the top of Chen Shan Mountain (at an altitude of 8,000 feet), where visitors can catch sight of the distant Shei mountain range.

Admire the view from Chen Shan. Lined with tall shade trees, Chen Shan Track winds through over two miles of forest and takes between three and four hours to complete. As they emerge at an altitude of 8,000 feet, hikers are rewarded with fantastic panoramas of the surrounding countryside.

Do it all at Hsinchu Park. This is one of the busiest tourist centres in Hsinchu. Onsite is the Confucian Temple, Municipal Glass Arts and Craft Museum, a small zoo and a sports complex. Visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring the many sites and activities at Hsinchu Park.

Drive through Chingchuan Scenic Zone. Countless attractions await visitors in this region. This scenic zone holds a number of waterfalls, nature trails and aboriginal villages. This is also the site of Hsinchu's only hot springs, along with four famous suspension bridges collectively spanning nearly 1,000 gaping feet of the Shangping Creek.

Go bird watching. The Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area is an ideal area to seek out wildlife. Li and Bagua mountains are particularly good places to scout out indigenous birds, along with several species of butterflies. In between sightings, there is plenty of natural beauty to enjoy in this area.

Organise a sightseeing tour from the train station. Hsinchu Railway Station was built during the Japanese occupation in the early 20^th century. Sightseeing maps are on hand at the station with excellent routes outlined throughout the city. Highlights include Beimen street, City God Temple and the Hucheng River.

Pay homage to Confucius. An annual ceremony to honour China's most famous sage is held in late September at Hsinchu's Confucius Temple (also known as Wen Temple). Sacred rituals are an important component of the local psyche, making this an important event for any tourist fortunate enough to visit in September.

Tour the spas. The geothermal activity below Hsinchu has paved the way for spring-fed spa treatments. Brave an invigorating soak in the cold springs, with temperatures as low as 10°C, before a more relaxing visit to the hot springs. Both are said to offer health benefits.