Cycling day trip from Taipei to Hsinchu

Looking for a fun ride out of Taipei? This route takes you from the vibrant heart of Taiwan’s capital directly to the lively city of Hsinchu, a hub of both history and high-tech. The trip covers a bit over 95 km, so plan for a full day in the saddle, but you’ll be rewarded with ever-changing scenery and a great sense of adventure.

You’ll leave Taipei’s bustling streets behind pretty quickly, trading them for quieter roads and some neat cycleways—perfect for finding a good rhythm. There’s a decent amount of climbing (just over 800 meters up), but nothing too extreme, and the highest point is under 400 meters, so you’re not heading into the mountains.

Most of the route is paved, with stretches that are super smooth and a few areas that feel more rural (which is part of the charm!). As you approach Hsinchu, you’ll notice the shift to a more tech-focused vibe—it’s often called the ‘Windy City’ and is famous for its science parks and delicious rice noodles. All in all, it’s a great mix of urban exploration and open-air cruising down Taiwan’s west side.