Cycling day trip from Taoyuan to Hsinchu

Looking for a pleasant ride between two buzzing Taiwanese cities? This route takes you from Taoyuan, known for its international airport and watermelon farms, all the way down to the wind-swept city of Hsinchu, famous for its historic old streets and the center of Taiwan’s high-tech industry.

You’ll cover just over 61 kilometers—great for a day trip—with a good amount of climbing (about 624 meters up, and a bit more going down!). Most of your journey is on quiet roads, so expect mostly peaceful pedaling, though you’ll also enjoy a dash of designated cycleways through some stretches. The highest point tops out near 394 meters, offering some nice views over Taiwan’s gentle hills.

The surfaces are overwhelmingly paved, though not always mirror smooth, so a hybrid or road bike with tough tires is a safe bet. You’ll pass through a mix of suburban neighborhoods and greener countryside patches before rolling into Hsinchu, so make sure to pack some snacks, and maybe leave a bit of extra time to explore the lively Hsinchu night market when you arrive!