Budai Salt Fields Cycling Path in Chiayi: The Unique Landscape of Coastline and Salt Fields

Introduction

The Budai Salt Fields Cycling Route in Chiayi is one of Taiwan’s rare “salt flat landscape” cycling routes. Following Provincial Highway 17 along the coast, it connects Budai Salt Fields, Haomeiliao, and Dongshi Fishing Harbor, covering approximately 35 km. Along the way, you’ll find historic salt field relics, sunset views, and fresh oyster dishes—making it the most locally distinctive cycling route in Chiayi.

Route Basic Information

Segmented Route

Segment 1: Budai → Salt Field Ecological Park (8 km)
Starting from the Budai Visitor Center, follow the coastal highway into the salt field area. Taiwan’s salt industry ended its sun-drying history in 2002, and the remaining salt field landscape has become a haven for photography and ecology.

Segment 2: Salt Fields → Haomeiliao Nature Reserve (12 km)
After leaving the salt fields, you enter Haomeiliao, home to the best-preserved mangrove and sandbar coastline on Taiwan’s west coast. The Haomeiliao Nature Reserve features a complete ecological interpretation system, making it a suitable mid-route rest stop.

Segment 3: Haomeiliao → Dongshi Fisherman’s Wharf (15 km)
Continue north along Provincial Highway 17 to reach Dongshi Fishing Harbor. Dongshi is Taiwan’s largest oyster-producing area, and the seafood dishes at the harbor are a must-try experience.

Salt Field Landscape Highlights

The landscapes left behind by Taiwan’s salt industry include:

• Jhounan Salt Field: Preserves traditional sun-drying salt-making processes, with hands-on salt harvesting experiences.
• Xinwen Jia Ying Temple: A local religious center with a large salt field in front of the temple.
• Budai Tourist Fish Market: Direct seafood sales, freshly cut and cooked on the spot.
• Dongshi Waisandingjhou Sandbar: Accessible by boat, Taiwan’s largest moving sandbar.

Food Along the Route

The seafood in Budai and Dongshi is the biggest highlight of the route:

• Budai Tourist Fish Market: Seafood BBQ, sashimi, oyster omelet
• Dongshi Fisherman’s Wharf: Grilled oysters, garlic oysters, oyster fritters
• Haomeili: Snack shops in the painted village
• Xinwen: Local specialty products and mullet roe

Must-Visit Attractions

Wind Direction and Light

The Chiayi coast is flat with little shelter, so wind direction has a major impact:

• Winter: Strong northeast monsoon; it’s advisable to avoid this season or ride in a south-to-north direction.
• Summer: Southwest winds plus scorching sun; it’s recommended to start in the early morning.
• Spring/Autumn: Gentler winds, making these the most comfortable seasons.

The sunset is the most famous scenery of the Budai Salt Fields. It’s recommended to arrive near the Budai Tourist Fish Market after 4 PM to enjoy the sunset reflections over the salt fields.

Practical Tips

• Best Season: October–April, avoiding summer heat.
• Gear: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a neck gaiter—the plains offer no shade.
• Bike Rental: Available at both the Budai Visitor Center and Dongshi Fishing Harbor.
• Timing: Morning for salt field mist, evening for salt field sunsets.
• Extended Routes: Can connect to the Puzi River Cycling Path and Chiayi HSR Station.

Conclusion

The Budai Salt Fields Cycling Route is a route with striking “visual contrasts”—from the blue-green salt fields and white salt piles to the golden sunset, the color palette is richly varied. Combined with the gastronomic delight of seafood dishes, this route ties together the most unique culture and landscapes of Chiayi’s coast. Next time you’re in Chiayi, don’t just visit Alishan—give Budai a day, and you’ll discover another side of Taiwan’s coastline.

Related Reading

• Budai Coastal Wetlands, Chiayi: An Ecological Cycling Route on Taiwan’s West Coast
• Budai to Yizhu Salt Fields Route, Chiayi: A Flat Ride Through Taiwan’s Salt Industry Culture
• Jianan Plain Segment: A Cultural and Culinary Ride from Tainan to Chiayi
• Taiwan’s West Coast Cycling Tour: A Slow Coastal Ride from Hsinchu to Tainan