roundTaiwanRound
【Lukang Old Street Guide】The Best Way to Experience a Day Trip Like a Local!

【Lukang Old Street Guide】The Best Way to Experience a Day Trip Like a Local!

how beautiful Lukang is? How to visit Lukang Old Street? Let’s take a look at the following introduction to Lukang Old Street attractions!

【Lukang Old Street Guide】The Best Way to Experience a Day Trip Like a Local! 導覽列
  1. Nearby Attractions in Lukang Old Street
  2. Transportation to Lukang Old Street
  3. Must-Try Foods in Lukang Old Street
  4. Must-Buy Souvenirs & Lukang Old Street Gifts
  5. More Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lukang Old Street
  6. Struggling to plan your trip to Taiwan? Contact RTR for customized consultation and make your travel easier!

The earliest history of Lukang Old Street can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty. At that time, it was an important trading port in the central region and one of the earliest commercial streets in Taiwan. The phrase "First Tainan, second Lukang, third Bangka" shows the importance of Lukang. It’s hard to imagine the great value of Lukang to Taiwan’s history, but with the changes of the times, the old street has witnessed the entire process of Lukang from prosperity to decline, and then to its transformation into a tourist attraction. Therefore, the characteristics of Lukang Old Street are not only a tourist attraction , and it is an important window to understand Taiwan’s history and culture. Because of the unique architectural style of Lukang Old Street, which is mostly traditional Minnan-style buildings with red brick walls and tiled roofs, coupled with the well-preserved archways, historical temples and monuments, it attracts many domestic and foreign tourists. As for how beautiful Lukang is? How to visit Lukang Old Street? Let’s take a look at the following introduction to Lukang Old Street attractions!

Introduction to Lukang Old Street

Lukang Old Street

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Located in Lukang Township, Changhua County, Lukang Old Street is one of Taiwan’s most famous historical street areas. It is also ranked as the most popular old street in Taiwan in 2024, making it the number one must-visit spot.

The history of Lukang Old Street dates back to the Qing Dynasty when Lukang was a major trading port in central Taiwan. It was also one of Taiwan's earliest commercial streets. The well-known phrase "First Tainan, second Lukang, third Bangka" refers to Lukang Old Street, highlighting its importance in Taiwan’s history. As time passed, Lukang Old Street witnessed the transformation of Lukang from prosperity to decline and its eventual revival as a tourist destination. Today, Lukang Old Street not only serves as a tourist attraction but also offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich history and culture.

When you visit Lukang Old Street, you’ll notice many of the buildings are constructed with red brick walls and traditional Minnan-style tiled roofs. The historic temples, old gates, and well-preserved monuments create a charming atmosphere that attracts numerous tourists.

So, what exactly makes Lukang so beautiful? How should you explore and enjoy Lukang Old Street? What are the must-try foods? If you're curious, keep reading this Lukang Old Street travel guide!

Lukang Tianhou Temple

Lukang Tianhou Temple

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Speaking of Lukang Old Street attractions, the most well-known is undoubtedly the Lukang Tianhou Temple, which was built in 1591.

Originally, it was a small temple, but in 1683, General Shi Lang brought the Mazu statue from Meizhou to Taiwan. Now, with over 400 years of history, it is one of Taiwan's oldest Mazu temples.

The current location of Lukang Tianhou Temple was expanded in 1725 by a wealthy businessman named Shi Shibang, and it has undergone several renovations to become the size it is today.

Lukang Tianhou Temple has always been a place of worship for the people of Lukang. The temple is known for its spiritual presence and flourishing incense offerings. Every year, on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, a grand celebration is held to honor Mazu's birthday.

The most notable feature of Lukang Tianhou Temple is the exquisite wood carvings, stone carvings, and painted architectural details created by famous artisans, making it one of the significant examples of traditional Taiwanese architecture and art.

The architectural layout follows a traditional three-section, two-corridor, two-side hall format, with a Minnan-style double-eaved, hip-and-gable roof. The temple’s San Chuan Hall also features a famous Bagua caisson ceiling, and together with the Main Hall and Rear Hall, forms a three-part architectural structure. Additionally, the temple houses several imperial plaques and valuable historical documents from the Qing Dynasty. With its historical, cultural, and artistic significance, Lukang Tianhou Temple was designated a national monument on November 27, 1985.

The famous Lukang Old Street is located in the old district surrounding Lukang Tianhou Temple.

  • Address: No. 430, Zhongshan Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Opening Hours: 06:00-22:00

Lukang Longshan Temple

Lukang Longshan Temple

Image source: Tourism Administration, Ministry of Transport

Built in 1653, Lukang Longshan Temple is dedicated to Guanyin (Avalokiteshvara) and has undergone numerous reconstructions. Along with Lukang Tianhou Temple, it is one of Lukang’s iconic historical monuments and is renowned for its beautiful architecture. The elaborate wood carvings, stone carvings, and painted decorations on the temple's interior and exterior are stunning, and the stage behind the main gate features Taiwan’s largest Bagua caisson ceiling, which spans about 5.5 meters and is also the oldest surviving one in Taiwan.

The majestic and intricate Longshan Temple is widely regarded as one of Taiwan's most complete and finest examples of Qing Dynasty architecture.

  • Address: No. 31, Wenquan Rd., Changhua City, Changhua County
  • Opening Hours: 07:00-20:00

Guihua Lane Art Village

Guihua Lane Art Village

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Guihua Lane Art Village is an artistic and cultural hub in Lukang, filled with a literary atmosphere. It’s a popular check-in spot with its painted walls and occasional art exhibitions. Formerly a complex of Japanese-style residences blending Baroque and Minnan architectural elements, it has now transformed into a colorful art village. Each house has a unique painted style, offering visitors not only modern artworks to admire but also opportunities to participate in DIY activities, making it a great family-friendly attraction in Lukang.

  • Address: No. 505, Guihua Lane, Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00
  • Transportation: You can take buses 6900, 6909, or 6933 from Changhua Station and get off at the Cooperative Stop to reach the village.

Breast Touching Lane (Moru Alley)

Breast Touching Lane (Moru Alley)

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Another famous attraction in Lukang Old Street is Moru Alley, which is less than 70 centimeters wide at its narrowest point. The alley got its name from the likelihood of physical contact between men and women passing through. However, the origin story of Moru Alley is still debated. One theory suggests that the alley was designed to be narrow for defensive purposes, to prevent thieves and block strong winds. Another theory states that the long, narrow alley symbolizes the people's desire for children, and it was originally named "Menglin Alley," but the name eventually evolved into its current form.

No matter the story behind it, Moru Alley is undoubtedly one of Lukang’s unique cultural relics. Walking through this 200-year-old alley, with traditional red brick walls on either side, gives a strong sense of stepping back in time.

  • Address: No. 38, Caiyuan Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Jiouqu Alley (Nine Turns Alley)

Jiouqu Alley (Nine Turns Alley)

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Another attraction near Lukang Old Street is Jiouqu Alley, known for its winding and twisting path. Similar to Moru Alley, it was designed to make it difficult for thieves to navigate, with the twists and turns also serving to reduce the strength of the northeastern monsoon winds.

Another theory suggests that Jiouqu Alley was built to ward off evil spirits, as ghosts are believed to only move in straight lines, making the winding alley a place of refuge.

The traditional Minnan-style buildings lining both sides of Jiouqu Alley, with red brick walls and tiled roofs, preserve the old-fashioned atmosphere of Lukang, allowing visitors to feel the lifestyle of the people in earlier times. In this way, Jiouqu Alley is like a living museum of Lukang’s history.

  • Address: Jinsheng Alley, Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Half-Sided Well

Half-Sided Well

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Walking through the alleys of Lukang Old Street, you may notice an interesting phenomenon – some wells are only half-visible, with the other half enclosed inside a wall. This is Lukang’s famous “Half-Sided Well.”

The well was originally fully exposed, but it was divided by a wall. In the past, only wealthy families could afford to dig wells, so they dug them close to their homes. One side of the well was for the family’s use, while the other side, which faced outside the wall, was left accessible for passersby and poorer residents. This reflected the class differences and mutual support in society at the time. Although most of the wells have been sealed due to the widespread availability of running water, the Half-Sided Well remains a historical relic of Lukang Old Street, embodying the values of the past.

  • Address: No. 12, Yaolin St., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Lukang Assembly Hall

Lukang Assembly Hall

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Lukang Assembly Hall was built in 1928 during the Japanese colonial period. It was originally known as Xiake Hall and Wanchun Temple (Su Wangye Temple), and after World War II, it was renamed Zhongshan Hall.

At the time, it was the largest Western-style building in Lukang and served as a meeting place for the community. In 1978, it became a senior citizens’ center, and in 2000, it was designated a historical monument by Changhua County. In 2010, it was transformed into Lukang Arts and Culture Center, which now serves as a venue to promote local arts and cultural activities.

  • Address: No. 72, Putou St., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Opening Hours: 10:00-17:00 (Closed on Mondays)

Fukuzawa Yukichi Japanese Store

Fukuzawa Yukichi Japanese Store

Image source: Fukuzawa Yukichi Japanese Trading Company Facebook

Near Lukang Old Street and the First Market, you’ll find Fukuzawa Yukichi Japanese Store, a shop that mimics the famous Thunder Gate of Asakusa, Japan, complete with a giant mascot. It’s hard to miss! This store is a popular spot for visitors to take Instagram photos.

Fukuzawa Yukichi offers a wide range of Japanese-style products, from snacks, instant noodles, and beverages to various Japanese foods. One of the most recommended items is their creamy ice cream topped with gold leaf, a visual and culinary delight. Though priced at NT$180, many feel it’s worth the splurge to experience a taste of Japan without the flight.

  • Address: No. 6, Chenggong Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Opening Hours: 11:00-19:30 (Closed on Thursdays)

Qipao Aesthetic Culture Park

When you think of Lukang Old Street, you may picture its historic landmarks, but there’s also a unique attraction called the Qipao Aesthetic Culture Park. Originally a shipbuilding business, the park was transformed by its founder, Ms. Zhang Yingying, who has a deep passion for qipao culture. Here, visitors can rent a variety of qipao, enjoy professional hair and makeup services, and take photos in settings reminiscent of historical dramas, similar to how one might rent a kimono in Japan or a hanbok in Korea. The park offers themed accessories to enhance your photos, including antique red beds, vintage wedding rooms, and even Western-style scenes. There’s also an afternoon tea service, making it a perfect spot to rest and recharge during your exploration of Lukang Old Street.

  • Address: No. 40, Houchie Alley, Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Opening Hours: 10:00-17:30 (Closed on Tuesdays)

So, how do you get to Lukang Old Street? Below are some transportation options to consider.

High-Speed Rail (HSR)

  • From Taichung HSR Station, you can take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Bus Line 6936 or Changhua Bus 6933 to Lukang, and you'll arrive directly at Lukang Old Street.

Taiwan Railways

  • From Taichung Rear Train Station, you can take Zhonglu Bus 9018 to Lukang, and you'll arrive directly at Lukang Old Street.

Bus

  • From Taipei Bus Station, you can take the UBus Line 1652 to Lukang, and you'll arrive directly at Lukang Old Street.
  • From Taichung Rear Train Station, you can take Zhonglu Bus 9018 to Lukang, and you'll arrive directly at Lukang Old Street.

Charter Service

If you're tired of crowded places and parking hassles, Tripool has a flexible 2-12 hour charter service that can create a more relaxing Lukang trip tailored to your needs!

Driving

  • From the South: Take National Highway No. 1, exit at Changhua Ramp, then follow County Road 142 to reach Lukang.
  • From the North: Take National Highway No. 1, exit at Puyan System Ramp, and follow County Road 76 to reach Lukang.

Lukang Old Street Parking Information

There are plenty of parking options near Lukang Old Street. Below are some recommended parking lots:

Free Parking Lots

  • Wenwu Temple Parking Lot: No. 18, Lugong Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Lukang Town Guangting 1 Parking Lot: Next to No. 88, Guanquan St., Lukang Township

Paid Parking Lots

  • Tianhou Temple Parking Lot: No. 1, Mazu Rd., Lukang Township
  • Lukang Town Office Underground Parking Lot: No. 168, Minquan Rd., Lukang Township

When it comes to Lukang Old Street delicacies, the must-try food list is super long, and the variety is incredible. You can literally eat from breakfast to dinner without repeating dishes. Restaurants, cafes, noodle shops, specialty foods, and snacks – Lukang Old Street has it all.

Lukang Old Street Mianxian Hu - Wang Wang Mianxian Hu

Wang Wang Mianxian Hu

Founded in 1930, Wang Wang Mianxian Hu is a century-old eatery that only sells one dish—mianxian hu (vermicelli soup)—which they have perfected to the highest level. Everyone in Lukang knows the name Wang Wang Mianxian Hu, and it's a beloved local delicacy.

The restaurant uses traditional handmade vermicelli. When the piping hot soup is served, it appears a pale creamy white. A gentle stir releases an enticing aroma. Beneath the vermicelli, you’ll find tender slices of pork and beaten eggs. Diners can adjust the flavor by adding condiments according to their preferences. The vermicelli melts in your mouth, and the broth carries a rich umami flavor from dried shrimp. At just NT$30 per bowl, the value for money is incredible, and it's no wonder some visitors say it's worth making a special trip to Lukang just for Wang Wang Mianxian Hu!

  • Address: No. 268, Minzu Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 06:00-18:00

Fa Ji Ai-Yu Jelly with Powdered Tapioca

Fa Ji Ai-Yu Jelly with Powdered Tapioca

Located in the First Market, Fa Ji is another popular spot in Lukang Old Street. The store’s signature dish is a bowl of Ai-Yu jelly with translucent powdered tapioca, flavored with a faint scent of gardenia, as well as silky soft ai-yu jelly and chewy rice noodles, all served with a dash of house-made syrup and shaved ice. Just the sight of it will make your mouth water, and the combination of textures is delightful. Priced at only a few coins, it's a dish that not only fills your stomach but also reflects the care and warmth put into each ingredient.

  • Address: No. 186, Minzu Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 08:00-18:00

Hanbin Crystal Dumplings

Hanbin Crystal Dumplings

With a history dating back to 1884, Hanbin Crystal Dumplings is a legendary century-old shop located in the First Market. The crystal dumplings, pork balls, steamed meatballs, and wontons are all must-try items, and they often sell out early. If you can’t decide, you can order a mixed soup to sample all of them at once.

The broth, freshly simmered daily, is deliciously clear and flavorful. The delicate dumplings are filled with a savory meat mixture and wrapped in paper-thin dough. Each bite is packed with traditional flavors that will leave you craving more.

  • Address: No. 189, Minzu Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 07:00-13:00 (Closed on Wednesdays)

Lukang Old Street Pork Buns - Ah Zhen Pork Buns

Lukang Old Street Pork Buns - Ah Zhen Pork Buns

Known as the “pork bun battleground,” Lukang Old Street has many famous pork bun shops, each with its own loyal following. Apart from Lukang Old Street Pork Buns, Ah Zhen Pork Buns is another well-known name. They use premium CAS pork, carefully balancing fat and lean meat, and mixing it with scallions and chives to create the filling. In addition to the classic pork bun, their Jade Pork Bun is also a best-seller. For non-meat eaters, they offer vegetable buns and brown sugar longan buns as alternatives.

  • Address: No. 71, Zhongshan Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 09:00-19:00

Lukang Meat Soup - Rou Geng Chuan

Lukang Meat Soup - Rou Geng Chuan

Besides Lukang Old Street, Lukang’s First Market is another heaven for food, with many long-established eateries, such as Rou Geng Chuan. It’s a must-try spot highly recommended by locals.

The portions are generous, with each bowl of squid and meat soup packed with chewy squid, tender meat, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. The savory thickened broth is priced at just NT$40, making it incredibly affordable. If you’re still hungry, you can order a side of braised pork rice or dry noodles. Even their boiled squid is available at great prices, so you can indulge without worry.

  • Address: No. 41, Gongyuan 1st Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 06:00-14:30 (Open until 18:30 on weekends)

Lukang Old Street Wheat Tea - Donghua Wheat Tea

Lukang Old Street Wheat Tea - Donghua Wheat Tea

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Donghua Wheat Tea is a traditional tea shop near Lukang Tianhou Temple that uses age-old methods and natural ingredients to create its drinks. Even vegetarians can enjoy the offerings. This is a must-try shop if you want an authentic taste of Lukang Old Street’s wheat tea.

In addition to wheat tea, Donghua has developed creative new dishes featuring wheat tea as the main ingredient, such as wheat tea shaved ice with grass jelly. They also serve almond tea and sour plum juice, making it a great place to stop by after visiting Lukang Tianhou Temple.

  • Address: No. 409, Zhongshan Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 10:00-19:00 daily

Lukang Old Street Meatballs - Meatball Lin

Passed down through three generations, Meatball Lin is another famous spot located in the First Market. The meatballs are deep-fried at low temperatures, which keeps the outer skin chewy without being greasy. The filling consists of diced bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and minced pork, wrapped in a sweet and savory sauce that is characteristic of Changhua-style meatballs. This flavor has captured the hearts of both locals and tourists alike.

  • Address: No. 6, Daming Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 14:30-20:00

Of course, Lukang Old Street has even more delicacies than those listed above. Other notable dishes include shrimp rolls, taro balls, and oyster pancakes, all of which are characteristic of Lukang’s unique food culture. Be sure to try them if you have the chance!

After enjoying Lukang Old Street’s sights and cuisine, you’ll likely want to bring some local souvenirs home. So, what are the must-buy gifts from Lukang Old Street?

Yuzhenzhai Green Bean CakeYuzhenzhai Green Bean Cake

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Established in 1877, Yuzhenzhai is a renowned bakery in Lukang, known for its traditional pastries. Their signature items, such as green bean cake, phoenix-eye cake, mung bean pastry, and butter biscuits, make excellent gifts to bring home for friends and family.

  • Address: No. 168, Minzu Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 08:00-21:30

New Flavor Bakery

New Flavor Bakery

Image source: New Taste Facebook

Fans of egg yolk pastries are surely familiar with “Buerjia (One & Only Artisan Bakery)” in Changhua, but due to its immense popularity, it can sometimes be difficult to get your hands on their pastries. Don’t worry though, there’s another local bakery, “Lukang New Taste Yolk Pastry,” which is highly recommended by Lukang residents and is regarded as an equally delicious hidden gem for egg yolk pastries.

Lukang New Taste Yolk Pastry has been a traditional bakery for over 30 years, and in 2024, they opened a new branch near Lukang Tianhou Temple. The shop is designed like a modern café, offering a cozy space where you can enjoy Taiwanese afternoon tea while savoring their famous egg yolk pastries. You can even purchase their pastries as gifts.

Their egg yolk pastries feature multiple layers of flaky pastry, a sweet red bean paste, and a savory salted egg yolk in the center, creating a delightful balance of flavors that leaves a lasting impression.

  • Address: No. 381, Zhongshan Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 11:00-17:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)

A-Po Mochi Shop

Famous for its handmade mochi, A-Po Mochi Shop is located at the entrance of Lukang’s First Market. The freshly made mochi, with its sesame and green bean fillings, is delightfully chewy and makes for a perfect afternoon snack or traditional dessert. It’s so popular that you’ll need to arrive early to get your hands on it before it sells out!

  • Address: No. 9, Daming Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 08:00-12:00 (Until sold out)

Lukang Old Street Tongue Cake - Qifengxuan Ox-Tongue Pastries

Lukang Old Street Tongue Cake - Qifengxuan Ox-Tongue Pastries

Image source: Qifengxuan Beef Tongue Cake Facebook

With a golden-brown color and a rich malt aroma, Qifengxuan’s tongue cakes are a well-known souvenir from Lukang Old Street. Soft and not overly sweet, they are perfect for both elders and children.

  • Address: No. 553, Fuxing Rd., Lukang Township, Changhua County
  • Business Hours: 09:00-17:00

Lukang Old Street

Image source: Changhua Tourism Information Network

Q: What are Lukang Old Street’s business hours?

Generally, Lukang Old Street’s business hours are from around 10:00 to 18:00. However, it’s best to check with individual stores for specific hours.

Q: What can I do at Lukang Old Street at night?

While Lukang Old Street is bustling during the day, it becomes quieter at night as most shops close. However, it’s a great time for a leisurely stroll or bike ride to appreciate the ancient architecture and street views under a different atmosphere. If you’re visiting on a Thursday, don’t miss the local Lukang Night Market.

For further itinerary customization, please apply our TAILOR MADE TRAVEL SERVICE. Once we receive your request, we will provide you with a customized itinerary. Thank you!