New Taipei City Travel

The colorful urban life is often accompanied by tension that is hard to relax. Don't want to travel far or be in crowded places. Let's traverse the riverbank and pass through the water gate to access New Taipei City's Happy Waterfront Line, where you can relish the fresh air and scenic riverside environment! Developed along the Tamsui River, Dahan River, Xindian River, and Keelung River, New Taipei City's Happy Waterfront Line boasts well-designed cycling routes, numerous recreational parks, sports facilities, and scenic bridges. This article offers a variety of riverside activities for you, including options for family fun, discovering secret spots, romantic dates, taking selfies, as well as leisurely strolling in scenic spots. Join us in exploring the riverside to rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit!”Family fun: The Bear Monkey Forest of New Taipei City Metropolitan Park, Sunshine Sports Park in Xindian, and Bitan Scenic Area.Featuring a vast expanse of over 400 hectares, the New Taipei City Metropolitan Park is a seldom-seen green corridor within the city. In recent years, both the MRT Zhonghe-Xinlu Line and the MRT Taoyuan Airport Line have established a station here (Sanchong Station), greatly enhancing the region's accessibility. The largest inclusive park in the country, “Bear Monkey Forest”, is also located within the metropolitan park. With slides inspired by the images of over 31 species endemic to Taiwan, more than a hundred recreational facilities, and an inclusive playground that seamlessly integrates with the natural terrain and ecology, Bear Monkey Forest is undoubtedly the ideal place for family fun. The “Sea World Water Park” was opened in the summer of 2022. Featuring seven aquatic facilities shaped like Taiwan's unique aquatic creatures, it has enriched the diversity of the metropolitan park!Sunshine Sports Park is Situated on the left bank of the Xindian River and spans approximately 20 hectares. Designed on the theme of “Sunshine Oasis”, the park has seamlessly integrated inclusive play equipment into the existing natural hills and pebble beaches. The park is designed with six major zones: the Adventure Zone, Tree Neighbor Play Zone, Sandbox Experience Zone, Green Shade Forest Zone, Green Picnic Zone, and Butterfly-Shaped Waterway Zone.It also features a roller-skating track, a 400-meter running track, a beach volleyball court, and a soccer field, making it one of the top sports leisure parks in Xindian.The 2023 Ankeng Light Rail, launched in February 2023, also set up the K07 Sunshine Sports Park Station here. By transferring from Shisizhang Station on the MRT Circular Line to the Ankeng Light Rail, it only takes a two-station ride to easily arrive at Sunshine Sports Park, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful riverside scenery upon arrival.👉Recommended Itinerary：Following the launch of Ankeng Light Rail: A new travel tip that connects Ankeng and XindianBitan, nestled amidst picturesque mountains and a serene lake, stands as a celebrated gem of northern Taiwan, steeped in both history and natural splendor. A must-do when visiting Bitan is to embark on a tranquil boat ride across the lake. Collaborate with your family members as you paddle together on a pedal boat, fostering stronger bonds while soaking in the enchanting riverside vistas and the captivating allure of Bitan's Little Red Cliff from up close. While holding your children's hands, walk across the long-standing Bitan Suspension Bridge to enjoy a high vantage point overlooking the scenic view of the emerald lake waters and Hemeishan. Afterward, head to the East Coast Food Square to savor delicious dishes while enjoying the gentle breeze.When the spring transits to summer each year, the Bitan’s water dance and Hemeishan’s fireflies make their appearance simultaneously. The magnificent water dance takes place in the center of Bitan, painting the night sky of Xindian with its vibrant display. The forest of Hemeishan, on the other hand, is full of fireflies flying around as it is the most active time for fireflies, brimming with vitality and energy.Discovering secret spots: Xizhi Wudu Cycling Route and Yingge Central River Sunset Trail Amidst the changing lights and shadows, the arched space of the old brick tunnel felt like a time machine, transporting you back to when it was built during the Japanese era. After undergoing restoration and revival, the TRA's Old Wudu Tunnel, now equipped with lighting fixtures and a cycling route, has emerged as the most captivating stretch along the Keelung River cycling routes, once again showcasing its rich historical charm.👉Related Articles：The Xingfu Waterfront – Exploring New Taipei by cyclingThe calm and waveless river reflects the silhouette of Yuanshan (Yuan Mountain), creating a picturesque rural scene. Located at the boundary between New Taipei and Taoyuan, the Yingge Central River Sunset Trail is part of the Dahan River Cycling Route. Nestled amidst the mountain and lake views crafted by Yuanshan and Yuanshan Weir, it is a hidden gem away from the urban hustle and bustle. Let's ascend to the observation platform perched on a small hill, and savor the splendid scenery of mountains and waters in solitude.Romantic dates and taking selfies: Bali Left Bank and Tamsui Golden AnchorWhile strolling along the from the Bali ferry terminal to the Bali Left Bank Strolling Square, you will discover several beautiful photo spots. Bali Left Bank is a great place for loved ones to visit! The “Bali Landmark” that exudes exotic charm, the heart-shaped “Mirror of Happiness” sculpture, and the dreamy “European-Style Domed Pavilion” - let's capture the romantic and picturesque moments with your mobile phone! Select an outdoor café to enjoy a leisurely afternoon coffee break and savor the stunning sunset over the Tamsui River.Tamsui Golden Anchor is located on the outer edge of Tamsui Old Street. It features a shaded promenade along the Tamsui River, waterfront areas, fishing spaces, a waterside stage, coffee seating, and a tidal observation bay. Strolling along the Tamsui River while gazing into the distance at Guanyinshan (Guanyin Mountain) on the opposite bank and the wide estuary of the Tamsui River brings a sense of tranquility to one's heart and mind. Along the Golden Anchor, you can leisurely explore renowned historic relics of Tamsui, such as Tamsui Customs Wharf and Fort San Domingo. These historic landmarks bear a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences in Tamsui.Leisurely strolling in scenic spots: Xindian’s Sunshine Bridge, Xinzhuang’s Crescent Bridge, Xizhi’s Starlight Bridge, Sanchong’s Sunlight Bridge, and Yingge’s Longyao (Dragon Kiln) Bridge. Although the Tamsui River and its tributaries have brought abundant resources to New Taipei City , they have also divided the Taipei Basin. To enhance the convenience of land transportation, New Taipei City has constructed dozens of bridges along the riverbanks. Among them, there are five beautifully designed scenic bridges specifically built for pedestrians and cyclists, collectively known as the “Sun, Moon, Stars, and Dragon”, forming the most beautiful architectural landscape along New Taipei City's Happy Waterfront Line. Each of these scenic bridges is designed with a beautiful projection mapping light show that captivates people's attention during the day and at night!Launched at the end of 2011, the Sunshine Bridge that connects Sunshine Sports Park with Zhongyang New Village is the first people-oriented river-crossing scenic bridge in New Taipei City. Not only is it specially designed for pedestrians and bicycles, but also it features a night projection mapping show, making it the “big brother” among the five scenic bridges. The Sunshine Bridge is a single-rib steel arch suspension bridge that supports the bridge deck with steel cables resembling violin strings and five arches. This elegant bridge of simplicity has already become a significant landmark in the Xindian area.The surface of the Dahan River reflects the double-arch bridge, creating a stunning riverside night scene with the distant crescent moon. The Crescent Bridge spans the Dahan River, connecting Banqiao 435 Art Zone with Xinzhuang Old Street. The total length of the Crescent Bridge and its approach is 1,133 m, making it the longest twin span steel arch bridge in Taiwan and the longest and most magnificent among the five scenic bridges. The Crescent Bridge has four scenic resting platforms with different features, along with the immensely popular skywalk. As you walk on the 60-meter transparent pathway, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Dahan River below and the opportunity for a thrilling visual experience!Featuring an erect giant microphone pointing towards the sky, this 270-meter Starlight Bridge in Xizhi has adopted a unique design with a “single-span cable-stay bridge” structure. Spanning the Keelung River, the bridge is situated next to the Wudu Railway Station and its white pillars and a bridge structure are adorned with point light sources, creating a sparkling and eye-catching starry night.The Sunlight Bridge, located in the New Taipei City Metropolitan Park, connects the two banks of the Erchong Floodway. Its two-tier, double-curved bridge tower structure creates an observation platform; and the winding bridge deck that resembles a galaxy symbolizes the path of the Cowherd and Weaver Girl's reunion. The Sunlight Bridge is surrounded by various facilities such as a scenic stream, a water play area, a light dining and relaxation plaza, green beautification, and nighttime constellation light sculptures. These amenities enable residents to enjoy different urban landscapes, including the New Taipei City Metropolitan Park, Xinbei Bridge, and the MRT Taoyuan Airport Line, from a distance.“Wind riding on clouds, dragons spewing pearls, light forming shadows, and land connecting together.” The Longyao Bridge spanning across the Yingge River is like an auspicious dragon soars above the river. The bridge, adorned with wood sculptures, represents local history, humanities, and culture. It also leads the way to the New Taipei City Art Museum, Sanying Heart Space Arts, and Yingge Ceramics Museum, allowing visitors to experience the artistic atmosphere of the Yingge village.

New Taipei City is renowned for its thriving industries, notably the long-established ceramic industry in Yingge, which has evolved since the Qing Dynasty, and the mining industry in Ruifang. During the export-oriented policy of the 1960s, light industries such as food, textiles, electronics, and others began to flourish. Factories congregated in Sanchong, Wugu, Xinzhuang, Banqiao, and Tucheng along Provincial Highways 1 and 3, contributing to the so-called "Taiwan Economic Miracle". As industries progressed, changes in labor costs and environmental consciousness prompted a gradual outward migration of manufacturing activities. In response to these shifts, some factories underwent a government-guided transformation into tourism-centric establishments, aiming to present traditional industries to citizens in a lively and enjoyable manner. Today, these locations have become popular leisure destinations for families, offering them opportunities to deepen their knowledge and create souvenirs through do-it-yourself (DIY) experiences. This chapter will introduce 8 tourism factories in different fields to satisfy the interests of travelers.【Sanchong】​​Beer Head Tourist BreweryEstablished in the spring of 2015 in Sanchong, the Taiwan Head Brewers, also recognized as the Beer Head, stands as the inaugural craft beer brewery tourism factory in Taipei City and New Taipei City. Spanning nearly 1000 ping, it is situated adjacent to the Xianse Temple MRT station and the Xingfu MRT Station of the Circular Line. The Beer Head prides itself on using primarily local ingredients in its beer production. Its notable offering is the "Twenty-four Solar Terms" beer series, which skillfully infused with Taiwan’s winter melon sugar, Changhua’s Jasmine tea, Pingtung’s cocoa, oriental beauty tea, and various other regional flavors. These beers are crafted to deliver enjoyable brews that capture the distinctive tastes of the island. The Taiwan Head Brewers offers professional tours guided by highly experienced brewers, providing travelers with an in-depth observation of the various beer brewing stages. Visitors can also pour a perfect pint of fresh beer themselves and can their creation under the brewer's guidance to take home!【Sanchong】Indian DIY LeathercraftTaiwan was once a stronghold of the pigskin leather industry but gradually declined due to the rise of environmental awareness and the outward migration of manufacturing activities. Established during this wave of industrial transformation, the Indian DIY Leathercraft is committed to promoting green, non-toxic, eco-friendly, and naturally vegetable-tanned leather crafts, including materials packs, hardware accessories, dyes, and finishing agents in various products. During the tour, professional tour guides will not only provide insights into the history and process of leather production but also offer the opportunity for travelers to engage in a do-it-yourself (DIY) activity, creating their own fashionable leather accessories using this ancient method, which is the oldest known leather-making technique!【Wugu】Fengde Tourism FactorySituated within the New Taipei Industrial Park, Fende is the first food company that began its business from a legally operated slaughterhouse. Apart from having its business scope extended to the supply of pork, chicken, seafood, and vegetables, Fende has also developed a “food and agriculture education”-themed tourism facility dedicated to promoting domestic agricultural products, fostering healthy dietary habits, and cultivating an appreciation for food. The factory is established with a transparent vegetable-and-fruit corridor and a production visiting area, allowing visitors to learn about the process from food processing to packaging and distribution. It also lively presents all kinds of food ingredients in front of visitors through interactive AR and VR guided teachings for them to do FUN DIY activities (such as making colorful mochi, shaking rice balls, and creating red tortoise cake) while enjoying the fun of cuisine.【Bali】PopSmile Popcorn Tourism FactoryRecognized as one of Taiwan's leading brands of flavored popcorn, PopSmile has opened Asia’s first popcorn tourism factory on the left bank of the Tamsui River in Bali. With a vibrant ambiance embellished with colorful themes, the tourism factory features an American small-town setting, making it irresistible for visitors to refrain from capturing photos with their mobile phones. Led by professional tour guides, travelers can explore the history and evolution of popcorn, acquire related life knowledge, and discover the advanced AI automation technology used in production lines. Visitors can also engage in entertaining interactive games and DIY activities. It is a must-visit destination for popcorn enthusiasts.【Linkou】Prince Creative Stationery KingdomPrince Stationery has long been dedicated to the eraser industry and hastened the production of Taiwan's first yellow-barrel ballpoint pen, creating the brand of “high-quality stationery from Taiwan”. Prince Creative Stationery transformed part of its factory site into a tourism facility, becoming the new highlight of Linkou’s tourism scene. Let's follow its mascot, Duke, into the “Time Tunnel of Eraser” and “Celebrity’s Stationery Treasure Box” to catch a glimpse of the eraser production process. Visitors can also create cute and creative stationery using completely non-toxic, eco-friendly materials, providing both adults and children with a delightful and memorable experience.【Yingge】Hsin-Wang Shu Ceramics Memorial MuseumYingge is the capital of ceramics in Taiwan and was home to thousands of ceramic factories during its heyday. Established in 1926, Hsin-Wang Shu Ceramics witnessed the rise and down of of Yingge’s ceramic industry. The Hsin-Wang Shu Ceramics Memorial Museum was established in 2010 and became the first tourism factory that passed the evaluation of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. The museum has preserved various historical artifacts, including antique-grade gas kilns, kick wheels, and other pottery-making equipment. The experiencing zone is divided into hand-pulling clay, hand-pinching pottery, glaze painting, and mosaic collage experiencing areas, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the joy of creating ceramics.【Tucheng】Wang Ding Time Arts MuseumHave you ever wondered why time appears different everywhere when you travel overseas? Wang Ding, established in 1984, invested significant resources in collaboration with the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and even sought expertise in Switzerland to develop the "World Time Zone Clock Movement". In 2012, Wang Ding established a time-themed arts museum to explore how the global time zones are determined and the assembly and production process of quartz watches. In the DIY zone, visitors can have an in-depth experience assembling quartz clock movements and designing products in their own style using the craftsmanship of watchmakers, which is both fun and educational!【Banqiao】Yumeeiren Garment Tourism FactoryYumeeiren initially operated as a ready-made garment factory and later transformed into a supplier of maternity clothing and related products. This long-standing clothing factory has been established for over half a century and has endured the decline of traditional industries and the impact of Taiwan’s declining birth rates. Despite these challenges, it continues to insist on maintaining the production line for maternity clothing catered to expectant mothers. From design to production and finally to the finished products, everything originates from Yumeeiren’s factories. It's the first maternity clothing company to receive MIT certification. Come visit the Yumeeiren Garment Tourism Factory to understand the process of creating ready-made garments, try making do-it-yourself baby clothing and fashion T-shirts. Moreover, all family members can also wear the unique, specially weighted maternity clothes available exclusively in Taiwan to experience the weight that mothers carry during their ten-month pregnancy journey.