Lukang (also Lugang) in Changhua County is the second oldest town in Taiwan. This modest town is famed for its culture and heritage that have been well-preserved through the generations. A pride of this town is its historic district, where red brick buildings with traditional Taiwanese architecture still stand firmly.
The ideal way to take in the sights and sounds of Lukang is by going on a walking tour, with Lungshan Temple that features carved dragon poles, pagoda ceiling, and beautiful garden courtyards, as starting point. The 233-year temple, with Goddess of Mercy as resident deity.
From there, stroll over to the narrowest of narrow Mo Ru Lane, followed by Lukang historic district, where century-old flavours of Cheng Yu Chen (since 1887) await.
From these traditional biscuits to the fashionable pudding of Simple Delicious Workshop, from classic street food fare of fried oyster omelette and large intestines rice vermicelli to hipster cafés, the saying that one can get to know a place well through its food holds true in Lukang.
Also well known in Lukang is Ellen “Bicycle” Café (ELLEN鐵馬咖啡 – 鮮烘咖啡專賣), popular among the locals for its freshly baked bread and snacks, as well as coffee products, such as delicate coffee, drip coffee, coffee gift packs, coffee-making utensils, and more.
From what I understand, Ellen began her coffee business from a tricycle. Due to overwhelming support for her aromatic coffee, she was able to move her business to a permanent shop.
I wouldn’t say that Lukang is an “exciting” town, as its glorious days as a port town is long gone. However, tourists who enjoy a laid-back lifestyle will like it, so would foodies, because of the array of street food options.
Note: View larger images by clicking on an image once this page has completely loaded. Then navigate by clicking on the right or left side of image.