Travel Guide: Quzhongju Homestay, Nanzhuang, Miaoli County

Introduction

Tucked into the misty hills of Miaoli’s Nanzhuang Township, Quzhongju Homestay (曲中居民宿) is a quiet retreat designed for travelers looking to disconnect from city noise and embrace the slow, unhurried rhythm of rural Taiwan. Far from the crowded tourist hubs of northern Taiwan, this family-run guesthouse offers a cozy, authentic base for exploring Nanzhuang’s old streets, mountain trails, and Hakka cultural heritage, making it ideal for weekend getaways and family trips alike.

Hotel Overview

Quzhongju is conveniently located at No. 96-3, Zhongshan Road, Nanzhuang Township, just a short walk from Nanzhuang’s bustling old street. The homestay caters primarily to family and small group travelers, with spacious non-smoking family rooms designed for comfort. Every room comes fitted with air conditioning, soundproofing, and tile flooring for easy upkeep in the region’s humid mountain climate, plus essential in-room amenities: a wardrobe, clothing rack, flat-screen TV, and a private en-suite shower with free toiletries, toilet paper, and a hairdryer. On-site facilities include free private parking (booking required in advance), and a karaoke room for casual group fun after a day of exploring. Note that the homestay does not provide internet access, a deliberate choice to encourage guests to unwind and connect with their travel companions and surroundings instead of scrolling. As the homestay only accommodates Chinese speakers, having a basic understanding of Mandarin or a translation app handy will help make your stay smooth.

Nearby Attractions

Three unmissable attractions sit within a 20-minute drive of Quzhongju:

• Nanzhuang Old Street: A 5-minute walk from the homestay, this well-preserved Hakka old town is lined with wooden shophouses selling traditional snacks like wild mushroom miso, rice cakes, and pickled plums. Don’t miss the iconic red arched entrance and the centuries-old Nanzhuang Temple at the end of the street.
• Shitoushan (Lion Head Mountain) Scenic Area: A 15-minute drive away, this low-elevation mountain park features gentle hiking trails past ancient Buddhist and Taoist temples carved into cliff sides, with sweeping views of the Miaoli hills. The trail is suitable for casual hikers and families.
• Emei Lake: A 20-minute drive from the homestay, this serene alpine lake is surrounded by tea plantations and cherry blossom trees. Visitors can rent paddle boats in spring, or sample locally grown oolong tea at small family tea houses along the shore.

Travel Tips

Book your free parking spot at least 3 days in advance, as the homestead has limited spots. Since there is no on-site internet, download offline maps and any entertainment before your arrival. Visit between late October and early April, when the mountain weather is cool and comfortable, perfect for hiking. If you’re coming from Taipei, take a 1.5-hour train to Miaoli Station, then catch a direct 40-minute bus to Nanzhuang Old Street to reach the homestay. Quzhongju is best for travelers looking to disconnect; if you need constant internet access, you may want to opt for a larger accommodation in central Nanzhuang instead.