Miaoli

Miaoli refers to Miaoli County, a county in northwestern Taiwan. The county seat is Miaoli City. It features a landscape that blends coastal plains on the west with the Central Mountain Range to the east, and it has a notable Hakka cultural presence alongside indigenous communities.

Geography and people: The county is home to a population that includes many Hakka people as well as indigenous groups, notably the Bunun and Saisiyat. The western part contains towns along the coast and plains, while the eastern portion rises into hills and mountains.

History: The area was inhabited by indigenous peoples well before Han Chinese settlement. During the Qing dynasty, it was incorporated into Taiwan Prefecture and later became part of reorganized local administrations. After the Republic of China took control, Miaoli County was established as an administrative unit and has since developed through agriculture, industry, and tourism.

Economy and culture: Agriculture remains important, with crops such as rice and tea among the common products. The county is also known for Sanyi, a town renowned for woodcarving and sculpture. Cultural heritage centers on Hakka traditions, local temples, and traditional storefronts, particularly in historic districts and villages.

Tourism and attractions: Notable sites include the Sanyi Wood Sculpture Village, Nanzhuang Old Street with its preserved architecture, and Liyu Lake, which offers boating and other recreational activities. The region attracts visitors seeking traditional culture, rural landscapes, and mountain scenery, alongside opportunities to explore indigenous heritage and craft.

Transportation: Miaoli County is served by Taiwan Railways’ Western Line, with stops in Miaoli City and Zhunan. It is connected by major roads to Taichung and Hsinchu, and acts as a gateway to the central mountain areas.