population: 0.27 million

extension: 60.03 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Chiayi and interested in visiting museums, I recommend the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum. It is located in Taibao City, Chiayi County and showcases artifacts from ancient China, as well as local culture and art. Other museums you may be interested in visiting in the area include the Chiayi City Art Museum, the Chiayi Municipal Museum, and the Chiayi Literature Museum.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Chiayi include:

1. Turkey Rice (火雞肉飯) - a dish made with shredded turkey meat served over rice and topped with gravy.

2. Aiyu Jelly (愛玉冰) - a refreshing dessert made from the seeds of the aiyu fruit, served with ice and a sweet syrup.

3. Fried Chicken (炸雞) - crispy fried chicken is a popular snack food found throughout Taiwan, and Chiayi is no exception.

4. Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵) - a hearty soup made with slow-cooked beef and thick noodles, flavored with soy sauce and aromatic spices.

5. Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎) - a savory pancake made with eggs, oysters, and a starchy batter, served with a tangy sauce.

6. Iron Eggs (鐵蛋) - hard-boiled quail eggs that have been repeatedly stewed in a mixture of spices and soy sauce, resulting in a chewy, flavorful snack.

7. Braised Pork Rice (滷肉飯) - a simple but satisfying dish of braised pork served over rice, often topped with a boiled egg or pickled vegetables.

These are just a few of the many delicious dishes you can find in Chiayi, which has a rich culinary tradition influenced by both local ingredients and regional Chinese cuisine.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that locals enjoy in Chiayi:

1. Visit the Alishan Forest Recreation Area: This is a popular tourist spot where you can see breathtaking views of the sunrise, sunset, and sea of clouds.

2. Try local foods: Chiayi is famous for its traditional snacks such as turkey rice, braised pork rice, and oyster omelets. You can find them at night markets or local restaurants.

3. Explore Hinoki Village: It's a retro Japanese-style village with many shops, cafes, and museums.

4. Take a ride on the Alishan Forest Railway: This scenic train ride will take you through the beautiful forests and mountains around Alishan.

5. Go to the Wenhua Road Night Market: This is a bustling market where you can find all kinds of street food, local handicrafts, and games.

I hope these suggestions help you enjoy your time in Chiayi!