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Houlong

Houlong, Miaoli, Taiwan

Houlong, nestled in the picturesque Miaoli region of Taiwan, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by eager travelers. This charming town boasts a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a peaceful atmosp…

#Houlong#Miaoli#Taiwan#Rural#Scenic

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Houlong.

Top Hotels in Houlong

Top Flights to Houlong

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Houlong.

Tours

Taiwan High Speed Rail Houlong Station

Explore the modern architecture of the Taiwan High Speed Rail Houlong Station and its surrounding parks.

Chun Shui Tang Teahouse

Experience the birthplace of bubble tea at this famous teahouse.

Miaoli Ceramics Museum

Discover the art and history of ceramics in Taiwan at this specialized museum.

Long Fong Fishing Harbor

A quaint fishing harbor offering fresh seafood and local market shopping.

Houlong Cultural Park

Explore the rich culture and history of Houlong at the cultural park.

Shopping

Houlong Old Street

Visit the traditional Houlong Old Street, full of local crafts, food, and souvenirs.

Houlong Township Farmers Market

A vibrant farmers market where you can find fresh local produce and handmade goods.

Outdoor

Houlong Riverside Park Cycling

Enjoy a day of cycling along the Houlong Riverside, perfect for leisure and exercise.

Houlong Seaside Park

A beautiful park along the coast, ideal for picnics, walking, and enjoying the ocean view.

Little Ding-Dong Science Theme Park

A family-friendly science park offering interactive exhibits and outdoor activities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Houlong.

Currency

NT$ | TWD | New Taiwan Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

Taiwanese Hokkien, Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka

Average weather

Houlong

Jan

18°12°

Feb

18°12°

Mar

21°15°

Apr

25°18°

May

28°22°

Jun

31°25°

Jul

33°26°

Aug

32°26°

Sep

30°24°

Oct

27°21°

Nov

23°17°

Dec

19°13°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Houlong.

What people love

Houlong, located in Miaoli, Taiwan, offers travelers a unique and memorable experience with its mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Houlong:

Scenic Beauty: Houlong is surrounded by lush greenery, mountains, and rivers, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the stunning landscapes of the area.
Cultural Attractions: The town of Houlong is rich in history and culture, with several temples, historical sites, and traditional architecture to explore. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture and learn about the traditions of the area.
Hot Springs: Houlong is known for its natural hot springs, which offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for visitors. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are a popular attraction for those looking to unwind and de-stress.
Outdoor Activities: Houlong is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for activities such as river rafting, camping, and bird watching. The surrounding natural environment provides a perfect setting for a variety of outdoor adventures.
Local Cuisine: Travelers to Houlong can indulge in delicious Taiwanese cuisine, including local specialties such as Hakka dishes and fresh seafood. The town has a variety of eateries and street food stalls where visitors can sample authentic Taiwanese flavors.

Overall, traveling to Houlong in Miaoli, Taiwan, offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities that make it a rewarding and enjoyable destination for tourists.

What to know

Houlong in Miaoli, Taiwan is a beautiful destination with several attractions and activities to offer. However, like any travel destination, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

Limited Public Transportation: Houlong may have limited public transportation options, making it challenging to get around the area without a car. This could potentially restrict your mobility and make it difficult to explore the area fully.
Language Barrier: While major tourist areas in Taiwan often have English-speaking locals, in more rural areas like Houlong, there may be a language barrier. Communication could be a challenge if you do not speak Mandarin or Taiwanese Hokkien.
Limited Accommodation Options: Houlong is a smaller town compared to major cities in Taiwan, so the range of accommodation options may be more limited. This could result in higher prices or lower-quality accommodations compared to more touristy areas.
Limited Dining Options: Similarly, the dining options in Houlong may be more limited compared to larger cities. If you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions, you may find it challenging to find suitable restaurants or food options.
Weather: Miaoli, where Houlong is located, can experience hot and humid summers as well as cool winters. Depending on your preferences, the weather conditions in the region may not be ideal for your travel plans.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: As a less popular tourist destination, Houlong may have limited tourist infrastructure such as information centers, guided tours, or organized activities. This could make it more challenging to plan and navigate your trip effectively.

It's important to note that these cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel experiences. It's always a good idea to research thoroughly and plan ahead to mitigate any potential challenges during your trip to Houlong.

Houlong, located in Miaoli County, Taiwan, is a township with a rich history and cultural significance. While detailed historical records specifically about Houlong may be limited, we can explore the broader historical context of the Miaoli region and highlight any significant aspects of Houlong itself.

Historical Background

Indigenous Settlements: Before Han Chinese settlement, the area that is now Miaoli County, including Houlong, was inhabited by various indigenous groups, primarily the Taokas people, who are part of the Plains Indigenous peoples of Taiwan.
Qing Dynasty: During the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), Han Chinese settlers began migrating to the Miaoli area, including Houlong. The settlement patterns were influenced by the agricultural potential of the region, and many Han Chinese settlers cultivated rice and other crops.
Japanese Rule: From 1895 to 1945, Taiwan was under Japanese rule. During this period, significant infrastructure developments took place, including the construction of railways that enhanced connectivity. This era saw the modernization of agriculture and urban planning in Taiwan.
Post-War Era: After World War II, Taiwan was returned to the Republic of China (ROC). The post-war era saw industrialization and economic development across Taiwan, including in the Miaoli region.

Significant Landmarks and Cultural Heritage

Houlong Railway Station: Built during the Japanese era, this station is part of the West Coast Line and has historical significance in connecting the township with other parts of Taiwan.
Houlong River: The river is a natural landmark and has played an important role in the agriculture and ecology of the region.
Local Temples: Like many towns in Taiwan, Houlong is home to several traditional temples which serve as cultural and religious centers for the community. These temples often host local festivals and events.
Agricultural Significance: Houlong, like much of Miaoli, has a strong agricultural heritage. The town is known for producing rice and various fruits, contributing to Taiwan’s agricultural output.

Cultural Events

Traditional Festivals: Houlong celebrates many of Taiwan's traditional festivals, such as the Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, with local customs and community gatherings.

While Houlong may not be as widely recognized in historical texts as some other regions in Taiwan, it embodies the cultural and historical evolution shared by many rural townships in Taiwan. The interplay of indigenous heritage, Chinese settlement, Japanese influence, and modern Taiwanese culture all contribute to its identity.

If you are looking for more specific historical events or figures from Houlong itself, the information might not be readily available in standard historical records. However, local archives, cultural studies, or oral histories in Taiwan could potentially provide more insights.