Holiday Inn Express Chiayi by IHG

Getting here on the west side of Chiayi is easy by taxi or Uber, and check-in is straightforward. The staff are friendly, rooms are comfortable, and IHG status holders are recognized with upgrades when available and thoughtful food and beverage gifts in the room. The beds have great bedding, with soft and firm pillows to choose from, and are softer than many Asian beds. The room climate control responds well, and tea and coffee are provided. Bathrooms have thick towels, toiletries, body wash, and shampoo. You can ask the front desk for toiletries. There’s little desk space for work. King rooms have a massage chair, but it takes up enough space that it can make the room feel cramped. Otherwise, the place is clean, quiet, comfortable, and practical, like Holiday Inn hotels elsewhere in Asia. It works well for either work or leisure.

Miss Jessica Lee was so kind and helpful. She explained what there is to see around chiayi and booked a taxi for us. Her English is good too. The hotel itself is very comfortable, with a cosy bedroom of a good size. I’d recommend it as a stopover if you’re heading to Alishan.

A new hotel just behind Chiayi Railway station. It’s about a five-minute walk from the local train or the bus from HSR, which was handy with Chiayi as our stopover on the way to Alishan. I liked the breakfast mix of Western and local food, and there’s a coin laundry where you can buy washing pods for NTD 50 each. I’ll come back next time I head to Alishan or Sun Moon Lake.

One night here was enough to leave me feeling refreshed. The room and bathroom were clean, which is what matters most to me, and the staff were quick and kind. Breakfast was amazing, mostly traditional Chinese food, and I went back for seconds and thirds. Parking is validated, with garage access from the hotel. A 10/10 stay for me!