Romantic Route 3: Hakka Culture and Seasonal Food Journey in Hsinchu

In the hilly regions of northwestern Taiwan lies a mountain highway known as "Romantic Route 3." This road connects the highest density of Hakka settlements in Taiwan. In contrast to the bustling western coast, time flows noticeably slower here, making it the perfect route for in-depth cultural tourism.

1. Beipu and Emei: The Call of the Tea Country

Beipu and Emei in Hsinchu County are the two brightest pearls on Route 3.

• Oriental Beauty Tea (White-tip Oolong): This is the hometown of Taiwan's unique "Oriental Beauty Tea." The tea leaves must be bitten by the tea jassid (a small insect) to develop its distinctive natural honey aroma. Sipping this tea at a teahouse by Emei Lake is a perfect afternoon experience.
• Beipu Lei Cha (Pounded Tea): When visiting Beipu Old Street, you cannot miss the fun of making "Lei Cha" yourself. You place tea leaves, sesame seeds, peanuts, and other nuts into a ceramic mortar and grind them vigorously with a pestle made of guava wood until their oils and aromas are released. Finally, hot water is added. It is an energy drink filled with Hakka hospitality.

2. Seasonal Food in Harmony with Nature

Living in the mountains, the Hakka people developed a highly intelligent culture of food preservation and seasonal dishes:

• The Art of Pickling: To extend the shelf life of food, pickled mustard greens in various stages (Suancai, Fucai, and Meigan cai) can be seen everywhere in Hakka villages. These ingredients, paired with fatty pork to make "Braised Pork with Pickled Mustard Greens," are the ultimate rice killer.
• Autumn Exclusive: Xinpu Dried Persimmons: Every year from September to December, the strong "Jiu Jiang Winds" specific to Hsinchu blow, signaling the season for drying persimmons in Xinpu Township. The sight of golden persimmons sunbathing in front of traditional houses is the most beautiful autumn scenery, and they taste sweet and chewy.
• Hakka Rice Foods (Ban): Hakka people refer to rice-based foods as "Ban." From the "Fa Ban" of the Lunar New Year to the mugwort "Ai Ban" during Qingming, and Hakka Tangyuan (Ban Yuan) for the Winter Solstice, each has its corresponding festive significance.

3. The Healing Wisdom of Herbs

In earlier times when medical resources were scarce in the mountains, Hakka ancestors were very skilled at using surrounding herbs and plants. Today, this wisdom has been transformed into modern "healing experiences." At many farms along Route 3, you can personally pick herbs like heartleaf houttuynia and Mexican marigold to make soothing herbal teas or bath sachets for a natural healing journey.

Conclusion

Romantic Route 3 is more than just a highway; it is a cultural corridor filled with the fragrance of tea, fruit, and human warmth. The next time you visit Taiwan, consider renting a car and driving along this mountain road to experience the most authentic Hakka slow-living philosophy.