Changhua to Lukang: A Flatland Riding Experience on Taiwan’s Bicycle Route System

Introduction

The bicycle route system across Taiwan’s western plains has developed significantly over the past decade or more. Among these, the route from Changhua to Lukang is the one with the greatest historical and cultural depth for riding in the western plains. The roughly 20-kilometer flat stretch lets riders savor the farmland scenery along the way at a relaxed pace, and upon reaching the destination, Lukang—the best-preserved old town in all of Taiwan—awaits exploration.

Lukang was once one of Taiwan’s three major trading ports during the Qing Dynasty, with a prosperity rivaling that of Tainan, the island’s former capital. Although the port eventually lost its shipping status due to silting, Lukang unexpectedly preserved a wealth of Qing-era streetscapes and architecture, making it one of Taiwan’s most precious historical and cultural heritages. Riding to Lukang is not just a physical activity; it is a cultural journey through time.

Route Planning

Attractions Along the Way and Stop Suggestions

Bagua Mountain Great Buddha, Changhua
Setting off from Changhua Station, you can take a detour to Bagua Mountain to enjoy a panoramic view overlooking Changhua City. The Great Buddha of Bagua Mountain stands majestically as Changhua’s spiritual landmark. In the early morning, with incense smoke curling and morning mist drifting, the atmosphere is especially enchanting.

Baishakeng, Huatan
The middle section of the route passes through Huatan Township, known for the folk tradition of the “Baishakeng Lantern Festival,” which draws large crowds every Lantern Festival. On ordinary days, you can also experience the tranquil vibe of a traditional farming village here, with cultural landscapes along the roadside that are refreshing to the mind.

Lukang Historic Sites
Upon arriving in Lukang, must-visit attractions include:

• Tianhou Temple: One of the oldest Mazu temples in Taiwan, with thriving incense offerings and exquisite temple architecture.
• Lungshan Temple: A national first-class historic site, hailed as one of Taiwan’s most beautiful temples, featuring superb caisson ceilings and stone carvings.
• Mo Lu Lane (Touch-and-Rub Lane): The narrowest old street in Taiwan, allowing only one person to pass sideways—Lukang’s most distinctive landmark.
• Yi Lou (The Romance Tower): The setting of a romantic tale about a Qing-era scholar pining for his beloved; the preserved red-brick building tells a story of bygone years.

Must-Eat Foods in Lukang

After completing the ride, Lukang’s snack culture will definitely leave you craving more:

• Oyster Omelet: Lukang is near the coast, so the oysters are plump and fresh; a freshly fried oyster omelet is the top choice.
• Phoenix Eye Cake and Taro Balls: Traditional pastries that are Lukang’s signature souvenirs, with numerous long-established pastry shops lining the streets.
• Mianxian Hu (Thin Noodle Soup): Renowned for its refined rice-based food culture; the silky thin noodle soup with generous toppings is the perfect choice for replenishing carbs after a ride.
• Xiahou (Mudflat Crab): A fiddler crab unique to Lukang, fried until crispy and eaten whole—a rare delicacy you can only find locally.

Practical Tips

• Best Season: Autumn and winter (October to March of the following year), when the western plains have dry, pleasant weather. In summer, the Changhua Plain has intense sunlight and little shade, so sun protection is essential.
• Transportation Advice: You can take the TRA from Taipei or Taichung to Changhua Station to start, and on the return, take a bus or taxi from Lukang back to Changhua Station—a short and convenient trip.
• Bicycle Path Conditions: Some sections of the Changhua-to-Lukang route have fully planned bicycle paths, but there are still mixed-traffic sections, so watch out for vehicles while riding.
• Return Options: Lukang has no train station; you can ride back to Changhua (20 km of flat road) or take a taxi or bus back.
• Suitable For: Families of all ages, beginner riders, and cultural travel enthusiasts alike; electric-assist bicycles are also well suited.

Conclusion

The route from Changhua to Lukang is the finest embodiment of the “slow travel” philosophy in Taiwan’s bicycle touring. It doesn’t require you to pedal fast, nor does it ask you to conquer climbs. It only asks you to slow down, take in the vastness of the Changhua Plain with your eyes, breathe in the scent of temple incense with your nose, and measure with your pedals the historic streetscapes tenderly preserved by time. Next time, let your bicycle take you back to Qing-era Taiwan.

Related Reading

• Tianwei Highway Garden to Lukang, Changhua: A Cultural Riding Route Through the Central Plains
• Flat Riding on Taiwan’s West Coast: Field Scenery in Changhua, Yunlin, and Chiayi
• Central West Coast: A Flat Resupply Route from Changhua to Taichung
• Lukang to Wanggong Fishing Port, Changhua: A Cultural and Industrial Riding Route on Taiwan’s West Coast