We took 3 free walking tours with Like It Formosa, including 2 in Taipei and 1 in Taichung. Our favorite was the one in Taichung. It was called Rail & River and it was led by Rowena. The tour met at the train station in downtown Taichung and it lasted about 2.5 hours. Rowena was nice, interesting, and entertaining. And she brought some snacks! If you’re visiting Taichung, this tour is a great way to understand the history of the city. It’s also a great way to spend the afternoon!
Taichung Rail and River Shared Walking Tour (Tip-based)





At a glance
- Duration
- 2h 30min
- Price from
- $5 / person
- Location
- Taichung
- Rating
- 5.0 / 5 · 6 reviews
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Small group, up to 15
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Confirmation
- Instant
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Operator
- Like It Formosa
- Meeting point
- Taichung Railway Station Tourist Service Center (2F, near exit 6)(No. 1, Section 1, Taiwan Blvd, Lüchuan Village, Central District, Taichung City, 400)Our guides are recognized with a green and white paper fan saying "Like It Formosa" and "Taichung Free Walking Tour".
Description
1. Visit the only three-generation railway station of Taichung that witnessed the first cross-country train in Taiwan over a century ago 2. Learn about the first modernly planned city in Taiwan built under Japanese colonization and its newly discovered urban retreat - the Green River 3. Discover local treats with a twist - a former ophthalmologist clinic that is now an ice cream store, and the original sun cake invented in Taichung Taichung is a vibrant and bustling city located in the heart of Taiwan. As the first modern city planning proposed under Japanese colonization, Taichung quickly developed through the cross-island railway system built in the early 20th century. Follow your guides on this tour, and we will take you through the streets of downtown Taichung to explore its rich stories through colonial city planning, new urban spaces, different architectural styles, and unique local treats! *Please note the tip to the tour guide is not included in the booking fee
Tour Options
Itinerary
Taichung Station is the bustling transportation hub that connects travelers to major cities across Taiwan. You can find the design of three different generations, the earliest from 1905, in the structure with the help of our guide. In addition to the modern and spacious design, it is also the first open and environmentally friendly station with no air conditioner! While you wait for the tour to start, you can visit the multi-level shopping center and its rooftop garden, and take a look at the beautiful city views.
Old Taichung Train Station, also known as Taichung Station Railway Cultural Park, is a historical landmark that first witnessed the one-day living and commuting circle in Taiwan. Built in 1917 during the Japanese colonial period, the red-brick structure boasts a unique blend of Western and Eastern architectural styles, and has been revitalized as a cultural center in downtown Taichung after the new station began operation. Nowadays, the station houses a variety of cultural events, art exhibitions, and performance spaces that cater to all tastes.
The structure of Taichung Overpass spans over 2 kilometers of greenspace and includes 1.6 kilometers of preserved old rails. Built in 2020 as a pedestrian-friendly link between the eastern and western sides of the city, the Overpass is adorned with colorful murals, installations, and art exhibitions, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The views from the overpass provide a unique perspective of the city's landscape.
The Green River runs through the city and is surrounded by lush greenery, parks, and beautiful bridges. Once heavily polluted and covered up, the river was revitalized through a renovation project in 2021. Local residents often take leisurely strolls, jog, or cycle along the river. The scenery is especially breathtaking at night when the bridges are illuminated with colorful lights!
Formerly the Miyahara optometry clinic, the historic building was purchased in 2010 and restored into an iconic ice cream parlor that offers a wide range of delicious ice cream flavors. The interior is filled with intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and antique furniture, creating a unique and nostalgic atmosphere. Visitors can also indulge in the shop's famous pineapple cake, nougat, and chocolate treats - you can ask for an English menu at the counter!
First built as a medical store in 1909, the Western red brick style building has been turned into a museum that showcases the history and production of the famous Taiwanese pastry - the sun cake. At this museum, you can learn about the traditional baking techniques used to create these delectable treats and even try your hand at making your own. Don’t forget to also treat yourself to the scrumptious sun cakes and other baked goods available in the café!
Built in Art Deco and Art Nouveau style, Central Bookstore was the biggest Chinese bookstore in Taiwan and the gathering venue for the Taiwanese Cultural Association intellectuals during the Japanese colonial period. Today at its new address, it has a vast collection of books, magazines, and journals and is the perfect place to escape the city's hustle and bustle. During our break, you can check out their section dedicated to stationery and other reading-related accessories.
Located in the heart of the city, the market was first built in 1917 as a high-end market for Japanese residents in downtown Taichung. Today, it is famous for its diverse selection of fresh produce, seafood, snacks, and traditional Taiwanese street food. After the end of our tour, you are welcome to stay on and explore the maze of alleys filled with colorful stalls and vendors selling everything from Taichung specialty snacks to exotic fruits - and don’t miss the array of small shops selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs, too!
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour is kid and stroller friendly. However, please note that wheelchair accessibility may be limited at certain historical sites and temples due to traditional architectural features (such as high thresholds and steps).
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Taichung Rail and River Shared Walking Tour (Tip-based) take?
Taichung Rail and River Shared Walking Tour (Tip-based) lasts about 2h 30min. The itinerary has 8 stops.
How much does Taichung Rail and River Shared Walking Tour (Tip-based) cost?
Prices start at $5 per person for this Taichung experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Can I cancel Taichung Rail and River Shared Walking Tour (Tip-based) for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Taichung Railway Station Tourist Service Center (2F, near exit 6). (No. 1, Section 1, Taiwan Blvd, Lüchuan Village, Central District, Taichung City, 400). Our guides are recognized with a green and white paper fan saying "Like It Formosa" and "Taichung Free Walking Tour". Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
What languages is Taichung Rail and River Shared Walking Tour (Tip-based) offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 15 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller This tour is kid and stroller friendly. However, please note that wheelchair accessibility may be limited at certain historical sites and temples due to traditional architectural features (such as high thresholds and steps).
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair accessible Transportation options are wheelchair accessible All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Is Taichung Rail and River Shared Walking Tour (Tip-based) worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 6 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Like It Formosa.
Reviews(6)
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
The tour is interesting. The tour leader Judy is knowledgeable & patient. She is a very good guide, very fluent in her English & knows her stuff well.
Jessica is awesome. She showed us around Taichung and good bubble tea. Very knowledgeable and patience in answering to our questions.
Carol’s presentation is amazing! Many old buildings and good stories behind. Very good Q&A, interactions, explanation, descriptions.
Nice introduction and kind Jessica. I am a Taiwanese though, Knowing more about Taichung history and culture through this guide trip.
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