Baoshan

Baoshan (寶山) is a rural township in western Hsinchu County, Taiwan, located on the outskirts of Hsinchu City. It is known for its scenic reservoir, Baoshan Reservoir (寶山水庫), and its rural Hakka character. The area offers a quiet escape from the city, with walking trails around the reservoir and traditional farm villages.

The climate is humid subtropical. October to March are the best months. The township is spread out, with small hamlets scattered among the hills.

By Plane

Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is about 65 km north. A taxi takes about 1 hour and costs around NT$1,400–1,800.

By Train

The nearest TRA station is Hsinchu Station, about 10 km west. From Hsinchu, take a bus or taxi to Baoshan (15–20 minutes, taxi NT$300–400).

By Car / Road

Baoshan is accessible via Freeway 1 (Hsinchu exit) and County Road 117. From Hsinchu City, drive southeast for about 15 minutes. Buses connect Baoshan to Hsinchu City.

A car or scooter is needed to reach the reservoir and surrounding villages. Walking trails around the reservoir are accessible on foot.

• Baoshan Reservoir (寶山水庫) — A scenic reservoir with walking trails and lakeside pavilions.

• Baoshan Suspension Bridge — A pedestrian bridge offering views of the reservoir.

• Baoshan Temple — A traditional temple in the village centre.

• Hakka farmhouses — Traditional architecture scattered across the countryside.

• Walk the trails around Baoshan Reservoir.

• Cycle the quiet country roads through Hakka farm villages.

• Visit during the Tung Blossom season (April–May) for beautiful white blossoms.

• Small Hakka restaurants in the area serve traditional dishes. NT$100–200.
• For more dining choices, Hsinchu City is 15 minutes away.

Local tea and bottled water are available. Convenience stores are limited.

• Budget: Limited accommodation; most visitors stay in Hsinchu City.
• Mid-range: Hsinchu City offers a wide range of hotels.

• Hakka preserved vegetables — Local farm products.
• Baoshan tea — Small-scale tea production from local farms.

• Hsinchu City — 10 km west (15 min drive). Historic city with the City God Temple.
• Baoshan can be combined with a visit to Zhubei or Hukou Old Street.
• Emei — 15 km south. Lake and tea plantations.
• Zhudong — 12 km east. Hakka market town.
• Beipu — 10 km northeast. Historic Hakka settlement.