Puzi

Puzi (朴子) is a town in Chiayi County, Taiwan, serving as the county government seat. Known for its traditional Mazu temples and lively market streets, Puzi has a relaxed, small-town atmosphere with a rich religious culture centred around the historic Puzi Mazu Temple. The town sits on the flat coastal plain of western Chiayi and is surrounded by farmland.

Puzi has a tropical monsoon climate. The best time to visit is between October and March. The town centre is compact and easily walkable.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Chiayi Airport (CYI), about 25 km southeast. A taxi takes about 30 minutes and costs around NT$600–800. Taichung International Airport (RMQ) is about 100 km north.

By Train

Puzi does not have a TRA station. The nearest station is Dalin Station on the TRA west coast line, about 10 km east. From Dalin, local buses connect to Puzi.

By Car / Road

Puzi is accessible via County Road 157 and 168. From Chiayi City, drive west for about 25 minutes. Regular bus services connect Puzi to Chiayi City and Budai.

The town centre is walkable. Local buses and taxis are available for trips to surrounding areas. YouBike is available in some parts of town.

• Puzi Mazu Temple (配天宮) — A historic and highly revered Mazu temple dating from the Qing dynasty, one of the most important in the region.

• Puzi Old Street — A traditional market street with old shopfronts and local vendors.

• Puzi Art Park — A cultural space hosting exhibitions and community events.

• Visit during the Mazu birthday celebrations (3rd lunar month) for elaborate temple processions.

• Explore the traditional market for local produce and street food.

• Cycle through the surrounding countryside.

• Small family-run eateries around the Mazu Temple serve noodle soups, braised rice, and local specialities. Meals NT$50–100.
• The morning market has fresh street food including fried dough sticks and rice rolls.

Local tea shops and convenience stores provide drinks. Bottled water is recommended.

• Budget: Small guesthouses near the town centre, around NT$800–1,200 per night.
• Mid-range: Chiayi City, 25 minutes east, offers more accommodation options.

Local agricultural products include rice and vegetables. Traditional Taiwanese snacks and temple souvenirs are available on the old street.

• Chiayi City — 20 km east (25 min drive). Gateway to Alishan and the county capital.
• Budai — 12 km west. A coastal fishing town with seafood and wetlands.
• Dongshi — 10 km north. A rural township along the coast.
• Taibao — 15 km southeast. Home to the Chiayi HSR station.
• Xingang — 12 km northeast. Home to the famous Fengtian Mazu Temple.