Taiwan's central region is very diverse.  The area includes the sprawling modern metropolitan city of Taichung, the many hidden cultural artifacts and local traditions of Changhua, and the beautiful mountain retreats of Nantou County.  All these great stops are within an hour or so drive from one another and many can be reached from the bus stations in Taichung City.  I personally enjoy the climate of Central Taiwan over the rainy north and blistering hot south.  Although, living in Kaoshiung made it convenient to reach other popular beach destinations in the southern most tip of Taiwan.