Hidden Gem in Northern Taiwan: A Complete Guide to Xiangxiang Inn (想巷), Hsinchu

Introduction

Tucked away on a quiet leafy alley in Hsinchu County, Xiangxiang Inn (想巷) is the perfect base for travelers who want to trade chain hotel blandness for authentic local charm. Far from the crowded tourist hubs of Taipei, this cozy boutique stay puts you steps from Hsinchu’s best street food, cultural landmarks, and easy day trips into the rolling hills of the county. Whether you’re a solo backpacker exploring northern Taiwan, a couple on a quiet weekend getaway, or a culture lover chasing Hakka and Minnan heritage, Xiangxiang Inn delivers a comfortable, low-key experience tailored to independent travelers.

Hotel Overview

Xiangxiang Inn is located at No. 6, Alley 16, Lane 52, Section 1, Dongda Road, East District, Hsinchu, a five-minute walk from the main bus terminal and 15 minutes from Hsinchu Train Station. This intimate all-smoke-free property prioritizes comfort and simplicity, with clean, well-appointed non-smoking rooms fitted with air conditioning, extra fans for temperate months, clothing racks, crisp linens, and in-room safes for storing valuables. Every room has a private en-suite bathroom with a standalone rain shower and complimentary hairdryer. Free wired internet is available across the entire property, making it easy to plan day trips or work remotely during your stay. Friendly staff speak both English and Mandarin, and offer convenient luggage storage for early check-ins or late departures after you’ve finished exploring. Note that the inn does not offer on-site parking, so this is an ideal choice for travelers arriving via public transport or ride-sharing.

Local Attractions

Three unmissable attractions are all within a 20-minute drive of Xiangxiang Inn:

• Chenggong Night Market: Just a 10-minute walk from the inn, this is Hsinchu’s most beloved local night market, free of tourist markup. Don’t leave without trying Hsinchu’s famous pork ball rice noodles and crispy oyster omelets, and browse stalls selling handmade Hakka textiles and local dried fruit snacks.
• Sheipa Leisure Farm: A 45-minute drive into the mountainous countryside of Hsinchu County, this working organic farm offers sweeping views of the Snow Mountain range, guided foraging tours, and homemade Hakka tea meals. It’s perfect for a day of hiking and connecting with nature.
• Hsinchu City God Temple: Dating back to 1733, this well-preserved Qing Dynasty temple is a 15-minute walk from the inn, adorned with intricate wood carvings and colorful temple statues. It’s also surrounded by iconic traditional snack shops selling Hsinchu’s famous rice vermicelli.

Travel Tips

If you’re arriving by train, take a 10-minute Uber or bus from Hsinchu Train Station to the inn for less than NT$100. Street parking is available on nearby main roads for travelers with rental cars, but spaces fill up fast on weekends, so book a spot at the nearby public parking garage a block away in advance. The inn is self-catering, so you’ll find plenty of breakfast shops and bubble tea stands within a two-minute walk of the alley entrance. Visit between late October and early December to enjoy cool, comfortable hiking weather and Hsinchu’s annual annual lantern festival held along the nearby Touqian River.