Minxiong

Minxiong (民雄) is a bustling town in Chiayi County, Taiwan, best known for its stilt houses (吊腳樓), a unique architectural style built along the riverbank during the Japanese colonial period. Minxiong is also home to National Chung Cheng University and is famous for its fiery local cuisine, particularly the "Minxiong goose" dishes.

The climate is tropical monsoon. October to March offer the most pleasant weather. The town has a lively student population, giving it a youthful energy.

By Plane

Chiayi Airport (CYI) is about 20 km south. A taxi takes about 25 minutes and costs around NT$500–700.

By Train

Minxiong Station (民雄車站) is on the TRA west coast line. From Chiayi Station, it is about 10 minutes (NT$20–40). Local trains from Taichung take about 1 hour.

By Car / Road

Minxiong is accessible via Freeway 1 (Minxiong exit) and Provincial Highway 1. From Chiayi City, drive north for about 15 minutes. Buses connect Minxiong to Chiayi City and Dalin.

The town centre is walkable, especially around the station and the university area. Taxis and local buses serve surrounding areas. YouBike is available near the university.

• Minxiong Stilt Houses (民雄吊腳樓) — A row of historic houses built on stilts over the river, a unique architectural heritage site.

• Minxiong Mazu Temple — A large and active temple in the town centre.

• National Chung Cheng University Campus — A spacious, green campus worth exploring.

• Minxiong Old Street — A traditional market street with local shops.

• Visit the stilt houses along the riverbank, especially when lit up in the evening.

• Explore the university area and its cafés and bookshops.

• Sample the local goose dishes at a traditional restaurant.

• Minxiong is famous for goose (民雄鵝肉) — Several dedicated restaurants serve roasted and braised goose. A meal costs NT$150–300.
• Local noodle shops and street food stalls offer budget options. NT$50–100.
• The university area has a lively food scene with diverse cuisines.

Bubble tea shops and cafés are plentiful near the university. Tap water is not safe to drink.

• Budget: Guesthouses near the station, around NT$800–1,200.
• Mid-range: Chiayi City, 15 minutes south, offers wider accommodation options.

Local agricultural products include pineapples and rice. The market area has shops selling traditional Taiwanese goods.

• Chiayi City — 10 km south (10 min by train). Gateway to Alishan.
• Xingang — 8 km west. Home to the magnificent Fengtian Temple.
• Dalin — 8 km north. A charming small town with a historic station.
• Meishan — 15 km east. A mountain township at the foot of Alishan.
• Puzi — 12 km west. County seat with the historic Puzi Mazu Temple.