Travel Guide to Xingang Style Homestay (新港風情民宿), Chiayi County

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Xingang, one of Chiayi County’s most charming historic cultural towns, Xingang Style Homestay (新港風情民宿) offers travelers an intimate, authentic base to explore southern Taiwan’s quiet countryside, centuries-old temples, and beloved local street food. Tucked away on a quaint old town lane, this family-run guesthouse captures the laid-back, warm spirit of rural Chiayi, making it ideal for slow travelers, culture lovers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds of Taiwan’s major cities.

Hotel Overview

Xingang Style Homestay is located at No. 26-1, Xingang Gumin Street, right in the center of Xingang’s historic district, steps from local street food stalls and temples. The property is a completely smoke-free accommodation, with soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms fitted with heating for cooler winter months, and tile flooring that stays cool during southern Taiwan’s hot summers. Each room includes a private en-suite bathroom with free toiletries, a hair dryer, toilet paper, and slippers, with basic towels and bed linens provided (extra towels and linens are available for a small fee). In-room amenities include a flat-screen TV, bedside charging outlets, clothes hangers and drying racks, and free Wi-Fi access to help you plan your daily adventures. The homestay offers daily cleaning service, luggage storage for early check-ins or late departures, and laundry service for longer stays. Security features include smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, 24/7 CCTV in public areas and outside the property, and secure key access for all guests. Note that the property has no on-site parking, and upper floors are only accessible via stairs. The host speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese, making communication straightforward for most travelers in Taiwan. For guests who enjoy exploring on two wheels, the homestay can arrange off-site bicycle rental to tour the town and surrounding countryside.

Nearby Attractions

Three unmissable attractions are all within walking or cycling distance of the homestay: First, Xingang Fengtian Temple, one of Taiwan’s most important Mazu temples, is just a five-minute walk away. This 200-year-old temple features stunning traditional wood carvings, vibrant wall murals, and a lively atmosphere, with street food vendors lining the approach road that serve local specialties like Xingang Bawan (meatball dumplings) and crispy peanut candy. Second, Xingang Old Street is right outside the homestay’s door. This preserved lane is lined with 100-year-old shophouses, now home to cozy coffee shops, handmade craft boutiques, and traditional snack stalls that sell century-old recipes passed down through generations. Third, the Chiayi County Art Museum Xingang Branch is a 10-minute bicycle ride away. Housed in a former Japanese-era elementary school, this open-air museum combines historic architecture with rotating contemporary art exhibitions, and sprawling green lawns perfect for a leisurely afternoon picnic.

Travel Tips

If you are driving, the closest public parking lot is a 10-minute walk from the homestay near Fengtian Temple, with low hourly rates. Come prepared with comfortable walking shoes for exploring the old town’s paved lanes and temple grounds. Visit in the early spring (February to April) or late fall (November to December) for mild, comfortable temperatures ideal for cycling. Most local eateries around the homestay are cash-only, so be sure to bring New Taiwan Dollars with you. If you have mobility concerns, request a first-floor room when booking, as upper floors are only accessible via stairs. Finally, don’t leave without trying the oyster omelets and glutinous rice cakes at the