Yingge, Taiwan Guide
Yingge feels like a town sculpted by generations of artisans, where the very air seems to hum with creative energy and the clatter of ceramic pieces tells stories of a rich heritage. This charming city, often celebrated as Taiwan's pottery capital, is a must-visit if you have an appreciation for craftsmanship and unique souvenirs. Your journey will undoubtedly lead you to the Yingge Ceramics Old Street, a pedestrianized haven lined with shops selling everything from traditional pottery to contemporary ceramic art, and where you can often spot artisans at work. Don't miss the impressive Yingge Ceramics Museum, which offers a comprehensive look at Taiwan's ceramic history and diverse artistic expressions, making it a perfect spot for both the casual admirer and the serious enthusiast. Beyond browsing, many visitors find joy in participating in hands-on pottery workshops – a truly memorable way to connect with the local culture and create your own ceramic masterpiece. While Yingge is undeniably a cultural deep dive, it's worth noting that outdoor adventure opportunities are quite limited here; it's a place for leisurely strolls and artistic immersion rather than hiking trails. Keep in mind that especially on weekends and public holidays, the Old Street can become incredibly busy, which might detract a bit from the relaxed browsing experience. Also, if your interests lie primarily outside the world of ceramics, you might find that a half-day visit is sufficient, as the city's main draw is quite focused. Evenings in Yingge are also generally very quiet, so plan your visit for daylight hours to get the most out of this unique artistic hub.
Food & Cuisine
Yingge's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Taiwanese flavors and local specialties. While not necessarily known for a specific "Yingge dish," the town offers a wide array of delicious options. Explore the Old Street for street food vendors selling savory snacks like oyster omelets (蚵仔煎), stinky tofu (臭豆腐), and Taiwanese sausages (香腸). For a more substantial meal, try one of the many restaurants serving classic Taiwanese dishes like braised pork rice (滷肉飯) and beef noodle soup (牛肉麵). Don't miss the opportunity to sample local tea, often served in beautiful Yingge-made teaware. The Yingge Ceramics Old Street Night Market is a great place to sample a variety of local foods in the evening.
Nightlife
Yingge's nightlife is generally more relaxed and focused on dining and browsing the pottery shops, which often stay open later than usual. While you won't find bustling nightclubs or late-night bars, the Old Street area offers a pleasant atmosphere for an evening stroll. Many restaurants and cafes stay open until around 9 or 10 pm, providing a comfortable setting for a post-dinner drink or snack. For a livelier nightlife scene, visitors often take the train to nearby Taipei, which offers a much wider range of options.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Yingge is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring the town on foot. Avoid the summer months (June-August) due to the heat and humidity, and be aware that typhoon season can bring heavy rain and strong winds. Winter (December-February) can be cool and damp, but still enjoyable with appropriate clothing.
Transportation
Yingge is easily accessible by train via the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA). The Yingge Railway Station is centrally located and a convenient hub for exploring the town. Local buses are also available, providing access to areas further afield. Within the main pottery district, walking is the best way to experience the shops and sights. Taxis are readily available for longer distances or when carrying heavy purchases. While there is no subway or tram system in Yingge, the train provides excellent connectivity to Taipei and other major cities.
Airport
The nearest international airport to Yingge is Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) away. From the airport, you can take a taxi directly to Yingge, which takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station and then transfer to a TRA train to Yingge. This option is more economical but takes longer, approximately 1.5-2 hours.
Attractions
Yingge Ceramics Street
Immerse yourself in the world of ceramics at Yingge Ceramics Street. Browse through a wide selection of pottery, from traditional teaware to contemporary art pieces. Visit the Yingge Ceramics Museum to learn about the history and techniques of ceramic making. A great place to find unique souvenirs and appreciate Taiwanese craftsmanship.
Day Trips
A historic port town located at the mouth of the Tamsui River, Tamsui offers a relaxing escape with its scenic waterfront, historic buildings, and vibrant street food scene. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Tamsui Old Street, visit Fort Santo Domingo, and watch the sunset over the river. Don't forget to try the famous "A-gei" (stuffed tofu).
1 - 1.5 hours by train (TRA) and Taipei MRT Escape to the mountains and experience the natural beauty of Wulai, known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and indigenous Atayal culture. Take a scenic ride on the Wulai Log Cart, soak in a relaxing hot spring bath, and learn about the local Atayal traditions at the Wulai Atayal Museum.
1.5 - 2 hours by bus from Taipei Main Station A vibrant metropolis, Taipei offers a captivating blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional temples. Explore the iconic Taipei 101 for panoramic city views, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Shilin Night Market, and delve into Chinese art history at the National Palace Museum, home to an impressive collection of artifacts. Taipei is a city that caters to every interest, from foodies to history buffs.
30-45 minutes by train (TRA) or car Known for its sky lantern tradition, Pingxi offers a unique cultural experience. While the Sky Lantern Festival is the main draw, the area is beautiful year-round. Release a lantern with your wishes written on it, explore the old streets of Shifen, and visit the impressive Shifen Waterfall, often called the "Little Niagara of Taiwan."
1.5 - 2 hours by train (TRA) to Ruifang, then Pingxi Branch Line train Step back in time in Jiufen, a charming mountain village known for its narrow, winding streets, traditional teahouses, and stunning coastal views. Once a thriving gold mining town, Jiufen now offers a nostalgic glimpse into Taiwan's past. Sample local delicacies, browse unique souvenirs, and soak in the picturesque scenery that inspired Studio Ghibli's "Spirited Away."
1.5 - 2 hours by train (TRA) to Ruifang, then bus to Jiufen Tamsui (Danshui)
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Wulai
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Taipei City
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Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival Area
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Jiufen Old Street
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