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.

You only have a week in Taiwan and do not want to spend too much transportation time? Then you definitely cannot miss the "world-famous" tourist attraction- the Yehliu Geopark. I assume you have done your research on the must-see attraction that people are talking about before coming to Taiwan. Have you heard of the "alien planet" in the northern Taiwan? If no, please add it to your travel to-do-list. The Yehliu Geopark is located in the suburban area of Taipei City. It is 40 minutes away from downtown by public transportation. The long and narrow capes sticking out from the island are eroded by the strong northeast monsoon, and with the weathering and coastal erosion, the "Mars landscape" is thus generated. There are lots of rock types here and you can even see gradient colors on some of the rocks. The famous rocks will be introduced below. You will definitely be amazed when seeing the art of nature in person!Pedestal rock area/ wave-cut platform- 2 main characteristics of the GeoparkIn the first area, you will see lots of pedestal rocks, ginger shaped rocks and candle shaped rocks. When looking around, pedestal rocks are everywhere. With time passing by, the hard concretion inside the sandstone is exposed, and with the effect of wind, sun, rain, wave as well as the erosion of the northeast monsoon, the pedestal rocks of different shapes, such as the pedestal rocks with no necks, bulk necks, narrow necks and broken necks, are thus formed. The landscape with lots of pedestal rocks is very uneven, so pay attention while you are walking on it. Do not be too focused on taking photos or enjoying the view and fall.The second area on the other side of the Geopark has the wave-cut landscape. You will find sea caves, coastal notches, wave-cut platform and cuesta. On one side of the wave-cut platform is the cliff and on the other side is the rapid wave. You will find lots of interesting rocks eroded by the seawater here, including the Twenty-four Filial Exemplars Rocks.Landscape Wonder- The Pedestal RocksWhen first walking into the Geopark, you will see a huge area of the pedestal rocks. When seeing afar, it's like the cute mushrooms park. And the pedestal rocks are the landscape that attracts most people in the Yehliu Geopark. The process for the formulation of the pedestal rock is first the rock formation exposed from the sea surface, and the seawater will erode the rock continuously. After some time, the hard concretion inside the sandstone is exposed, and with the effect of wind, sun, rain, wave as well as the erosion of the northeast monsoon, the pedestal rocks of different shapes, such as the pedestal rocks with no necks, bulk necks, narrow necks and broken necks, are thus formed. The different shapes of the rocks represent the different formation processes. The landscape with lots of pedestal rocks is very uneven, so pay attention while you are walking on it. Do not be too focused on taking photos or enjoying the view and fall.The Star of the Geopark - "Queen's Head"The next coming up is the star of the Yehliu Geopark, "Queen's Head". The Queen's Head is a kind of pedestal rock. When the crustal structure was rising, the differential erosion of the seawater made the Queen's Head what it is like today. If we divide its height by the average crust rising speed in northern Taiwan, we will learn the Queen's Head is about 4,000 years old. The Queen's Head is a kind of pedestal rock. However, the joint on its upper concretion broke during 1962-1963. When viewing from a certain angle, it looks similar to the head portrait of Elizabeth II and thus acquires the name. With the natural weathering effect over the decades, the neck of the Queen's Head is getting even narrower. To prevent erosion by human activities for that tourists might touch it, the Queen's Head is now under protection. If you would like to take a photo with the Queen's Head, you can walk on the wooden plank trail to line up. Besides, you can view the Queen's Head from afar and take photos with it on the trail.The "Cute Princess Rock" and "Candle Shaped Rock" are the popular landscape at the Geopark. The formation process of the "Cute Princess Rock" is similar to that of the Queen's Head. The eroded rock looks like a princess with a ponytail and is said to be the potential replacement of the Queen's Head. Doesn't the rock look like a little girl with her hair in a bun? Though the Cute Princess Rock is probably not as element and sophisticated as the Queen's Head, it gives people a feeling of passion and sweetness.How was the "Candle Shaped Rock" named? I guess you already know! The landscape looks just like candles. There are 3 main processes for the formation of the Candle Shaped Rock. First the candle fire is exposed, and the area around it is eroded to form a groove. Finally, the candlestick is cut and the Candle Shaped Rock is thus formed. The candle fire is actually a round concretion in the rock formation. When seawater erodes sandstone, the round concretion which is harder is exposed on the ground. And when waves dash against the concretion, seawater flow around the concretion to erode the sandstone around it. A groove is formed as a result. Since the formation outside the concretion is harder, seawater will flow according to the shape of the formation and cut the rock into a cone shape that looks like a candlestick. And a rock that looks like the shape of candle is formed by mother nature.Amazing Rocks- CuestaNow let's look at the beautiful scene of the Cuesta in the second area. Walking along on the road to the Cuesta, you will see the most beautiful sea and mountain scene in the Geopark. You can view the Cuesta on one side and the sea cliff as well as wave-cut platform on the other side.The Cuesta features a sharp cliff on one side and a smooth slope on the other side. It is formed because the main stratum is pushed by uneven force and speed, which results in uneven rise of the stratum. When the stratum is pushed, the lump on the ground will cause the stratum to break. And after the seawater erosion, a landscape that looks like a "natural slide" is gradually formed.Guess how famous is the Yehliu Geopark? CNN once reported that the scene at the "Yehliu Geopark" is like the landscape in the outer space and that it has the environment that looks just like the one Mars has. You will definitely find lots of gorgeous and special rocks, including the "Queen's Head", "Ice Cream Rocks", "Beehive Rocks", "Ginger Shaped Rocks" and other wave-cut landscape. You will definitely be amazed by the diverse geologic structure and landscapes here. What's more, you can see how great and powerful nature is. Whether it's from the perspective of geographic environment or location and transportation, the Geopark is definitely worth visiting!Transportation Information of the Yehliu Geopark*Tamsui Bus No.862 (Take the bus heading to Keelung in front of MRT Tamsui Station and get off at Yehliu.) The bus sets out every 30 minutes.*KUO-KUANG eBus No. 1815 (Take the bus heading to Chinshan Youth Activity Center at the KUO-KUANG eBus Station at Taipei Main Station. The Bus drives along Zhongxiao E. Road and makes a brief stop at the Taipei City Hall Bus Station. Please get off at Yehliu.) The bus sets out every 20 minutes.*Keelung Bus No.790 (Take the bus heading to Jinshan next to Keelung Train Station and get off at Yehliu.) The bus sets out every 15 minutes.*Keelung Bus No.1068 (Take the bus heading to Jinshan at National Taiwan University and get off at Yehliu Geopark.)*Keelung Bus No.953 (Take the bus heading to Jinshan at the bus station next to Banqiao Train Station and get off at Yehliu Geopark.)Nearby Places to Go Jinshan Wanli Cycling Route-->Jinshan Wanli Hot Spring