Bitan Suspension Bridge

Updates : 2023-10-31

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Introduction

Situated in the midstream of the Xindian River, the Bitan Suspension Bridge was built in 1937. Featuring a double-tower, double-hinge, and single-span design, this bridge has a length of 186.6 m, a width of 3.5 m, and stands at an elevation of 30 m. Known as a popular tourist attraction in Xindian District, it can accommodate around 1,000 people. Bitan was named after its crystal-clear green water. In the early days, traveling between the two banks of Bitan primarily relied on human-powered ferries. Upon the completion of the Bitan Suspension Bridge, it not only became an essential bridge connecting Zhonghe and Xindian but also stood out for its elegant and distinctive design. Several decades later, it has become an indicative scenic spot in the Bitan Scenic Area and a landmark of Xindian District. The three bridges of Bitan.

The Bitan Suspension Bridge launched in 1937 is an iconic landmark in Xindian as this 200-m long suspension bridge carries many people’s cherished memories. Since the cables of the suspension bridge cannot withstand the erosion of time, the cement structured Bitan Bridge was constructed downstream in 1956. Later in 1997, when National Freeway No. 2 was opened to traffic, a grand arch bridge was also built. This has left Bitan with three bridges from different eras, creating a distinctive landscape. Known as “Taiwan’s first projection mapping suspension bridge that moves with the rhythm of music”, this bridge is installed with 17,472 LED lights. The splendid lights reflected in the riverside have added to the infinite charm of Bitan’s moonlit ambiance. Bitan gets more beautiful at night! At night, the Bitan Suspension Bridge is adorned with colorful lights, resembling a rainbow stretching across the river. For the love ones who visit Bitan, it is also a top choice for them to hold hands and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

How to Get There

Choose a transportation method based on your departure location.

Xinban Special District

The “New Banqiao Station Special Zone” shopping area is right outside the Taipei Metro Banqiao Station. This is the administration center, shopping center, and transport hub of New Taipei City. In the New Banqiao Station Special Zone, visitors can fulfill their shopping and entertainment demands. The “Mega City Banqiao” opened in 2012 is the largest department store in the zone. Inside the store, there are the booths of all luxury brands and restaurant chains, such as Ding Tai Fung and Tim Ho Wan. Moreover, the “Global Mall” inside the station is a leisure spot for shopping, fun, and fine foods. The food court on basement level one has all kinds of snacks and souvenirs. On the first and second floors, there are stores of sports and casual wear labels, fashion shops, and bookstores. If delicacies are desired, the outdoor restaurant on the second floor is the most comfortable and most fashionable option.

Diaoshan Trail

The existence of the Diaoshan Trail can be traced back to 1898, when gold was discovered in the rivers and creeks. The subsequent discovery of gold mine outcrops attracted many curious miners. Back during the mining boom of Shuinandong, Jinguashi, and Jiufen, the Diaoshan Trail was used frequently. With this background information, an unresolved legend of the woeful Fruitless Grave was created on the Diaoshan Trail. The Fruitless Grave is located closer to the exit of the trail, with the inscription on the stone monument dating it back to 1902.