Taichung Metropolitan Cycling Map: Complete Guide to Commuter and Leisure Bike Routes

Taichung is the largest city in central Taiwan and one of the most proactive cities in Taiwan when it comes to building cycling networks. From the city’s ring bike lanes and the coastal Dajia River bike path to the Houfeng Bike Trail at the foothills, Taichung offers a diverse cycling environment that caters to commuters, weekend leisure riders, and long-distance cycling enthusiasts alike.

Overview of Taichung’s Cycling Network

Taichung’s bike lanes, either under construction or already completed, total more than 400 kilometers and are divided into the following major systems:

Featured Route 1: Houfeng Bike Trail (Dongfeng Green Corridor)

Route Information

Highlights

The Houfeng Bike Trail was converted from the abandoned Dongfeng Railway. Along the route, several preserved railway facilities remain, including the old Shigang Station and old bridge piers, making it the most culturally rich bike path in Taichung.

Highlights along the way:

• Shigang Old Street: A small town preserving its Japanese colonial-era character
• Dajia River Bed: Vast gravel riverbed with views of distant Snow Mountain
• Dongshi Forest Farm: A forest recreation area near the endpoint

Best suited for: Families with children, seniors, first-time riders

Featured Route 2: Fazi River Bike Path

Route Information

Highlights

The Fazi River Bike Path runs from Beitun through Xitun to Longjing, making it one of the most convenient commuting corridors in Taichung. Along the way, it connects key nodes such as the Central Taiwan Science Park, Taichung Wuri Station, and Taiwan Boulevard, making it a popular route for office workers commuting by bike.

Featured Route 3: Dajia River Bike Path

Route Information

Highlights

This route lets you ride through Taichung’s geographic depth, starting from Taichung Port on the coast and heading upstream along the Dajia River, experiencing the terrain gradually shifting from coastal alluvial plains to rolling hills. Along the way, the Da’an Wetlands, Qingshui Service Area, and Taichung Port Special Zone offer rest and supply stops.

Recommended Commuting Routes

For commuting within Taichung’s urban area, the following routes are recommended:

Taichung Station ↔ Fengchia Shopping District (approx. 12km)

Bike lanes are available along Taiwan Boulevard, but be mindful of safety at intersections. During peak hours, it is advisable to avoid Taiwan Boulevard and instead take the parallel Yingcai Road or Meicun Road.

Taichung Station ↔ National Museum of Natural Science ↔ Park Lane by CMP (approx. 5km)

A refined short ride through the heart of Taichung that connects multiple lifestyle hubs, ideal for a relaxing pedal after work.

Using YouBike in Taichung

Taichung’s YouBike (public bike-sharing) system covers the urban area and parts of the suburbs. You can quickly rent a bike using an EasyCard or mobile payment:

• Number of stations: Over 600 stations (continuously increasing)
• Fee: First 30 minutes free, then NT$10 per 30 minutes
• Best for: Short-distance trips, connecting to buses or the MRT

Recommended Road Bike Training Spots

Conclusion

Taichung’s cycling environment ranks among the best of Taiwan’s major cities. Whether you’re an office worker commuting daily, a parent taking the kids out on weekends, or an advanced rider seeking training grounds, Taichung has a suitable route waiting for you.

Bring your EasyCard for YouBike, or gear up your trusty steed, and find your own cycling rhythm along Taichung’s city streets and riverside green corridors.

Related Reading

• Taichung Metropolitan Bike Paths: From Houfeng Bike Trail to Dongfeng Bike Path
• Taipei to Taichung Cycling Route: The Complete Intercity Riding Guide
• Taipei City Bike Lane System: A Complete Network Guide for Urban Cycling
• Introduction to Taiwan’s Bike Path Systems: Features and Connections of Bike Lanes Across Counties and Cities