Chiayi City is located in southern Taiwan, at the heart of the Chianan Plain, entirely situated north of the Tropic of Cancer, though very close to it. Chiayi City serves as the core urban area of the Chiayi metropolitan region. The overall terrain is flat, except for the eastern part, which consists of hilly areas. The land gently slopes from east to west, and the city is surrounded by Chiayi County.
Chiayi City was formerly known as "Zhu Luo Shan," a transliteration of the indigenous Pingpu tribe Hoanya’s settlement name, "Zhu Luo Shan She." During the Qing Dynasty, the area was established as Zhuluo County, and in 1704, the county seat was relocated to the present-day Chiayi urban area. Due to the shape of the old city resembling a peach, it earned the nickname "Peach City." In 1787, following the Lin Shuangwen Rebellion, Emperor Qianlong bestowed the name "Chiayi," symbolizing recognition of the people's loyalty and righteousness.
Geographical Environment
Chiayi City is situated at the northern edge of the Chianan Plain in southwestern Taiwan. The terrain is generally flat and expansive, with the eastern part belonging to the Zhuci Hills, accounting for about one-third of the city's area, with elevations above 50 meters. The remaining two-thirds consist of fertile plains below 50 meters in elevation, forming part of the Chianan Plain. The city is located on the edge of the Meishan Fault Zone, and the overall terrain is stable, making it suitable for agricultural and urban development.
Climate Characteristics
Chiayi City is located at 23°29′N latitude and 120°27′E longitude and features a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons. Summers are hot, and from July to September, the city experiences typhoon season with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. In winter, due to the radiative cooling effect of the Chianan Plain, temperatures can drop below 10°C. The annual average temperature is around 23.6°C, with an average annual rainfall of approximately 1821.6 mm. Winters are relatively dry due to the northeast monsoon, while summers are dominated by southwesterly winds.
Historical and Cultural Background
Chiayi City is the starting point of the Alishan Forest Railway, which thrived in the past due to the development of the forestry industry. Many historical buildings and cultural attractions have been preserved in the city, serving as significant tourism resources. During the Japanese colonial period, Chiayi was renowned for its art scene and was known as the "City of Painting," with famous artists such as Chen Cheng-po representing this heritage. In recent years, the city has actively promoted cultural activities such as the International Band Festival and the Awakening Music Festival, attracting many tourists and music enthusiasts.
Local Specialties
Chiayi City is famous for its diverse local delicacies, with the most iconic being turkey rice, square pastries, Alishan jelly, snowflake cakes, mini buns, sweet potatoes, and pineapple cakes. These foods have become highlights of local tourism and are highly favored by visitors.
Transportation and Development
Chiayi City is actively promoting transportation infrastructure and has become Taiwan’s first city to implement a fully electric and low-floor bus system, emphasizing sustainable and eco-friendly transportation. With the growth of tourism and industry, Chiayi City is continuously striving to improve the quality of life for its residents, becoming a livable city that balances history with modern development.
With its unique historical and cultural heritage, abundant natural landscapes, and modern urban development, Chiayi City stands out as a charming destination for tourism and residence in southern Taiwan.
