Looking for where to stay in Chiayi? You’ve come to the right place. After exploring Tainan, we headed to Chiayi on our 3-week itinerary in Taiwan, a city that surprised us with its authenticity and charm.
Many people pass through Chiayi just to get to Alishan. But since we love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, we decided to stay here for a few days. Chiayi is the only region in Taiwan with three major national scenic areas: Alishan, the Southwest Coast, and Siraya. Mountains, plains, and sea—all in one place.
If you’re planning your visit, it’s worth discovering where to stay in Chiayi and taking your time to enjoy everything this area has to offer. Here, you’ll find the three best areas to stay in Chiayi and the best accommodations for every budget.
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Chiayi City Center
Staying in the heart of Chiayi puts you close to everything: train stations, night markets, and a variety of local restaurants. This area is perfect for those who want to be in the center of the action and have easy access to the main attractions, making it one of the best places where to stay in Chiayi.
Best Accommodations in Chiayi City Center
- Budget: Chiayi Petite Hostel – A cozy hostel with clean dorms and a friendly atmosphere, ideal for budget travelers.
- Mid-range: Chiayi Look Hotel
Located a short distance from the train station and Wenhua Night Market, this hotel offers spacious rooms and a varied breakfast. - Luxury: Maison de Chine Hotel Chiayi – An elegant hotel with modern amenities, a pool, and panoramic city views.
Fenqihu Area
If you’re looking for a quieter experience where to stay in Chiayi, surrounded by nature, Fenqihu is the right choice. This mountain village is famous for its old street and scenic trails.
Best Accommodations in the Fenqihu Area
- Budget: Alishan Tea Homestay – A simple and welcoming guesthouse run by a local family, offering an authentic experience.
- Mid-range: Fenchihu Hotel – Located in the heart of Fenqihu, this hotel combines modern comfort with traditional charm.
- Luxury: Alishan Meiyuanlou Scenic Hotel – This hotel offers easy access to Wufeng Park and stunning mountain views.
Lantan Lake and Renyitan Reservoir Area
For nature lovers who want to stay close to the city, this area offers the perfect balance. With serene landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities, it’s ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration.
Best Accommodations in the Lantan Lake and Renyitan Reservoir Area
- Budget: Sun Dialogue Hotel – A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and easy access to Lantan Lake.
- Mid-range: Lantan Fanyue Inn – Offers spacious rooms and panoramic views, a short distance from the reservoir.
- Luxury: Hotel Day Plus Teascape – Combines contemporary design with traditional elements, providing a relaxing stay.
Useful Tips for Your Trip to Chiayi
- Transportation: While public transport in Chiayi is functional, renting a scooter can give you more freedom to explore less accessible areas.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying Chiayi’s famous chicken rice (雞肉飯), a delicious local specialty.
- Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance with Heymondo to protect yourself against unforeseen events.
- Connectivity: To stay connected, especially if you plan to use maps and translations, a Holafly eSIM can be a practical solution.
- Local Events: Check if there are any festivals or cultural events during your stay; they’re a great way to immerse yourself in local culture.
Chiayi is a city that combines urban charm with the serenity of nature. Choosing the right area to stay can make all the difference in your experience. Regardless of your budget, there are options that will allow you to fully enjoy this Taiwanese gem.
