Hemei

Hemei (和美) is an urban township in northern Changhua County, Taiwan, situated near the border with Taichung. It is one of Changhua's most industrialised towns, known for textile manufacturing, metalwork, and traditional crafts, particularly the weaving of decorative fans. Despite its industrial character, Hemei retains a traditional town centre with busy markets and temples.

The climate is humid subtropical. October to December offer the most pleasant weather. Hemei has a population of around 90,000 and is effectively a suburb of both Changhua City and Taichung, making it a convenient base for exploring the wider region.

By Plane

Taichung International Airport (RMQ) is about 20 km north. A taxi takes about 25 minutes and costs around NT$600–800.

By Train

Hemei does not have its own TRA station. The nearest station is Changhua Station, about 5 km south. From Changhua Station, take a bus or taxi to Hemei (10 minutes, taxi around NT$150–200).

By Car / Road

Hemei is accessible via Freeway 1 (Changhua interchange) and Provincial Highway 19. From Changhua City, drive north for about 10 minutes. From Taichung, drive south for about 20 minutes. Local buses connect Hemei to Changhua City and Taichung.

The town centre is walkable and compact. Buses connect Hemei to Changhua City and Taichung. Taxis are available for local trips.

• Hemei Mazu Temple — The central temple and community gathering place.

• Hemei Fan Museum — A small museum dedicated to the town's traditional fan-making craft.

• Local textile factories — Some offer factory outlet shopping.

• Visit the traditional market area to experience local commerce and street food.

• Explore the nearby coastal wetlands along the Dadu River estuary.

• Cycle through the rural fringe of the township.

• Small eateries in the market area serve classic Taiwanese fare. Local specialities include noodle soups and braised dishes at budget-friendly prices (NT$50–120).
• Night market stalls operate in the central market area on certain evenings.

Convenience stores and local tea shops provide drinks. Tap water is not recommended for drinking.

• Budget: Small guesthouses and motels in the town centre, around NT$800–1,500 per night.
• Mid-range: For more options, Changhua City (10 minutes south) has a wider range of hotels.

Hemei is known for handmade fans (和美扇子) — traditional folding fans that make excellent souvenirs. The town also has factory outlets for textiles and clothing.

• Changhua City — 5 km south (10 min drive). The county capital with the Baguashan Great Buddha and historic temples.
• Taichung — 15 km north (20 min drive). Taiwan's second-largest city with premier shopping and dining.
• Shengang — 8 km northwest. A coastal township with harbour views.
• Lukang — 10 km southwest. One of Taiwan's best-preserved old towns.
• Xianxi — 12 km southwest. Known for its coastal industrial area and wetlands.