Chiayi City isn't usually the first place on a Taiwan itinerary, but it should be. Most people treat it as a pit stop on the way to Alishan, yet the city itself has this weirdly charming, slow-burn energy. If you're looking for a place to crash, the Holiday Inn Express Chiayi sits right in the middle of all that action. It's not a five-star luxury resort with gold-plated faucets, but honestly? It’s probably the most efficient, clean, and surprisingly stylish hotel in the area.
Choosing a hotel in Chiayi City Taiwan can be a bit of a gamble. You’ve got these aging local hotels that feel like a time capsule from 1985, or you have high-end spots that charge way too much for what they actually offer. This IHG property hits that sweet spot. It’s located just a short walk—maybe three or four minutes—from the Chiayi Railway Station. That matters. If you’ve ever hauled a suitcase over uneven pavement in the humid Taiwan heat, you know that distance is everything.
The Reality of Staying at Holiday Inn Express Chiayi
Let’s talk about the design first because it’s not your typical "cookie-cutter" lobby. The architects went for something they call "Smart Design," which basically means it looks cool but actually functions well. They used a lot of local elements, like wood textures that nod to Chiayi’s history as a timber hub. It feels fresh.
The rooms are exactly what you need. Small? A little bit, yeah. But they’ve managed the space so well that it doesn't feel cramped. You get the signature Holiday Inn Express bedding—firm and soft pillow options—which is a godsend after a long flight into Taoyuan and a train ride down south.
One thing that stands out about the Holiday Inn Express Chiayi is the lighting. Taiwan hotels can sometimes be dim and depressing, but here, the floor-to-ceiling windows in many rooms let in a ton of natural light. You can see the city skyline, which, while not Tokyo or New York, has its own localized charm with low-rise buildings and neon signs.
Location is the Killer Feature
You’re basically at the gateway to the city. From the front door, you can wander over to the Wenhua Road Night Market. It’s about a 15-minute walk or a very cheap Uber ride. If you haven't been, you have to try the turkey rice. It’s the city’s soul food. Don't go to the most famous one with the longest line; ask the hotel staff which one they actually eat at. They’ll usually point you toward a stall that doesn't have a massive tourist queue but tastes twice as good.
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Being near the station means you’re also set for the Alishan Forest Railway. Most travelers don't realize that getting tickets for the mountain train is a nightmare if you aren't physically there or haven't booked weeks in advance. Staying at this hotel allows you to be at the station early in the morning without the stress of a long commute.
What Most People Get Wrong About This Property
Some travelers expect a full-service hotel with a bellhop and a 24-hour spa. That’s not what this is. This is a "limited service" hotel, but in the best way possible.
The breakfast is a great example. It’s free. In a lot of places, "free breakfast" means a stale croissant and some watery juice. Here, they actually lean into local flavors. You’ll find congee with all the traditional toppings, braised pork, and seasonal Taiwanese fruits like guava or wax apple. Of course, they have the standard eggs and toast if you’re feeling unadventurous, but why would you do that to yourself?
Another misconception is that it’s just a "business hotel." While the Wi-Fi is fast enough to stream 4K video without a hiccup, the vibe is actually quite family-friendly. They have a laundry room which is a massive win for long-term travelers. Doing a load of laundry for a few Taiwan Dollars instead of paying per-piece dry cleaning prices at a luxury hotel saves you a fortune.
The Nuance of Chiayi Hospitality
There is a specific kind of politeness in southern Taiwan. It’s less formal than Taipei but much warmer. The staff at Holiday Inn Express Chiayi reflect this perfectly. They aren't robotic. They’ll actually give you real advice on where to find the best fang yu fan (eel noodles) or which bus to take to the Hinoki Village.
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Hinoki Village is a must-see, by the way. It’s a collection of old Japanese-era dormitories that have been restored into boutiques and cafes. It’s a bit touristy, sure, but the history of the place is tangible. You can see the Japanese influence on the city’s layout and architecture everywhere, and the hotel sits right on the edge of that history.
Practical Logistics for Your Stay
Getting here is straightforward. If you’re coming from Taipei or Kaohsiung via the High-Speed Rail (HSR), remember that the HSR station is actually quite far from the city center. You’ll need to take the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) shuttle, which is free if you show your HSR ticket. It drops you off at the back of the regular Chiayi Train Station. From there, it’s a quick walk through the station to the hotel.
- Check-in is usually at 3:00 PM. If you arrive early, they have a secure luggage storage area.
- Parking is available, but the entrance is a bit narrow. If you're renting a massive SUV, be careful.
- The gym is small. It has the basics—treadmill, some weights—but don't expect a CrossFit box.
The price point is where this place really wins. Depending on the season, you’re looking at roughly 2,500 to 3,500 TWD. For a brand-name hotel that is consistently clean and safe, that’s a steal in this part of the world.
Final Actionable Insights for Your Visit
If you are planning to book a stay at the Holiday Inn Express Chiayi, do yourself a favor and join the IHG One Rewards program first. Even the base level usually gets you a slightly later checkout if the hotel isn't slammed.
When you arrive, skip the hotel coffee in the morning and walk a few blocks to one of the many "Old House" cafes in Chiayi. The city has a massive movement of young people moving back to renovate their grandparents' old wooden homes into specialty coffee shops. It’s the best way to support the local economy and get a world-class latte at the same time.
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For the best experience, try to book a room on a higher floor. The street noise in Chiayi isn't terrible, but the scooters in Taiwan have a very specific high-pitched whine that can carry. Higher floors offer a bit more peace and a much better view of the mountains in the distance on a clear day.
Go to the front desk and ask for a map of the "Small Town" walking routes. Chiayi is incredibly walkable, and there are dozens of hidden temples and murals tucked away in the alleys right behind the hotel that most tourists completely miss.
Don't just use this place as a bed for Alishan. Spend at least one full day wandering the city. Check out the Chiayi Art Museum—it's housed in a stunning former tobacco and liquor corporation building and is only a ten-minute walk from the hotel lobby. It’s one of the most Instagrammable spots in the country, but more importantly, the curation is genuinely impressive.
Pack light, bring an umbrella (Chiayi gets sudden afternoon showers), and make sure your phone is charged for all the food photos you're going to take. The Holiday Inn Express Chiayi is your perfect home base for all of it.