Cycling day trip from Chang-hua to Puli

This is a hearty ride taking you from Changhua, a hub of classic Taiwanese history (famous for the Great Buddha statue and bustling local markets), all the way up into the mountains to the laid-back town of Puli—the geographic center of Taiwan, well-known for its scenic lakes and refreshing sake.

The route packs in around 2,200 meters of climbing over a solid 74 kilometers, mostly following quiet and access roads (so expect relatively low traffic and some stretches with secluded mountain views). While the surface details are a bit sketchy in spots, you’ll spend most of your time on smooth asphalt and paved sections. Be prepared for sustained climbs that reward you with sweeping panoramas as you rise over 1,000 meters in elevation.

Take breaks to soak up the forested valleys and, once you reach Puli, celebrate with some locally brewed beverages or a stroll by the famous Puli Brewery. It’s a challenging ride, but a beautiful way to cross from the western plains into Taiwan’s green heart.