At the core of one of the most populous cities in Taiwan, visit Central Taichung, a sector with a booming economy and fascinating culture. Historic theaters and intriguing museums complement the parks and gardens of this vast hub. Towering skyscrapers light up the cityscape at night.

Soak up the serene atmosphere as you sit on the steps dotted along the Liuchuan Riverside Walk. In the evening, the banks of the waterway are illuminated. Study the art installations and watch koi swimming in the water.

As you stroll beside the river, visit some of the city’s attractions. The Taichung Literature Museum consists of a park and several buildings dedicated to many types of literature. Across the water, inspect the Lin, Chih-Chu Memorial, a former teachers’ dormitory from the 1920s, now a museum dedicated to the painter Lin Zhizhu.

For a change of scenery, study the cartoon graffiti of the Painted Animation Lane. Gaze up at the elaborate white façade of the Taichung City Office Building.

A little northeast of the river is vast Taichung Park. Walk across a long red bridge and enjoy the vista of the lake. Admire the European-style buildings and set up a picnic on the grass.

Browse the fashion boutiques of the adjacent ASEAN Square. The food court has an array of Southeast Asian and international specialties. Local snacks are also available at the Taichung Second Market. As evening falls, stroll through the Zhonghua Night Market and try its exotic Taiwanese dishes.

Find the Central Taichung district in the southwestern corner of the special municipality of Taichung. This area is on the western side of Taiwan, near the border with Changhua County. Arrive at Taichung International Airport and drive south for 10 miles (16 kilometers) to get here in about 30 minutes.