Introducing Huairen
Huairen County, under the jurisdiction of Shuozhou City, Shanxi Province, is located in northern Shanxi Province, on the upper reaches of the Sanggan River, outside Yanmen Pass in Shanxi Province and in the central Datong Basin. Jinshatan, a scenic spot in the county, lies at the foot of Huanghualiang, 30 kilometers south of the county seat. It includes the Jinshatan Forest Area and the Hongtaoshan Forest Area, an ancient battlefield where the Song and Liao dynasties fought and where Yang Jiye is said to have been defeated and killed. Qingliang Mountain, located approximately five miles west of Wudao Village in Hejiabao Township, Huairen County, features steep peaks and ridges. A temple on the mountain, Qingliang Temple, is said to be the first place of worship for Manjushri Bodhisattva on his way to Mount Wutai. A brick pagoda, Huayan Temple Brick Pagoda, stands on the main peak. Built during the Liao Dynasty, it is over ten meters tall, with seven eaves and eight corners. A cave nestles in a recessed area north of the peak, housing a 1.78-meter-tall stone statue of Manjushri Bodhisattva.
Most Popular FAQs for Huairen
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Guanxi Town, originally known as Meilizhuang, was renamed during the Qianlong reign in 1793. It is renowned for its Hakka heritage, Japanese colonial architecture, and as a center for tea production and cultural preservation.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Guanxi Town is located in Hsinchu County, Taiwan. It is accessible by bus or taxi from Hsinchu City. The town is walkable, with many attractions within close proximity.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
Most attractions in Guanxi Town open around 9:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and comfortable.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, Leofoo Village Theme Park charges NT$250, which can be used as a NT$200 discount on admission. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular attractions like Leofoo Village Theme Park. Booking a few days ahead is advisable to secure entry.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
Plan for a full day to explore the main attractions, including the theme park, mountain trails, and cultural sites.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Leofoo Village Theme Park
- Shiniou Mountain
- Old town area with traditional Hakka architecture
- Local tea shops and eateries
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be offered at select attractions, but availability in languages other than Mandarin is limited.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Shiniou Mountain offers panoramic views of the valley.
- Old town streets provide charming backdrops for photography.
- Tea plantations offer scenic landscapes during the harvest season.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start with a visit to Leofoo Village Theme Park in the morning, followed by a hike up Shiniou Mountain. In the afternoon, explore the old town area and enjoy local cuisine.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Most attractions close by evening. However, some eateries and tea shops may offer evening hours. It's best to check individual business hours in advance.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded. Weekends and public holidays can be busy, particularly at the theme park.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Facilities include public restrooms, food stalls, restaurants, and souvenir shops throughout the town and at major attractions.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Many areas are accessible, but some mountain trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to check specific attractions for accessibility information.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is commonly accepted, but many establishments also accept credit cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local eateries offering traditional Hakka dishes
- Tea houses serving locally produced teas
- Cafes with scenic views of the surrounding mountains
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available, particularly in Hakka cuisine. Halal options may be limited; it's best to inquire at individual establishments.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Local guesthouses and B&Bs in the town
- Hotels in nearby Hsinchu City
- Resort-style accommodations near Shiniou Mountain
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Leofoo Village Theme Park
- Shiniou Mountain
- Old town area with traditional Hakka architecture
- Local tea plantations
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Tea products from local plantations
- Handcrafted Hakka goods
- Traditional snacks and sweets
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Return to Hsinchu City by bus or taxi
- Continue to other parts of Taiwan via the Taiwan High-Speed Rail or local trains
