New Taipei City Travel

Ancient Kyoto-style century-old temple is hidden in Xizhi?! Gongbei Temple in Xizhi is well-known for maple appreciation during fall. Besides the beautiful maples’ red, Gongbei Temple that was built in 1906 is now more than a century old, and the stone-paved double arch bridge outside the Temple is equally classic and elegant. Paradise does not end here, following Xiwan Road and continue into the woods, there hides a lake surrounded by the mountains – it is Xinshan Dream Lake! The name “Dream Lake” originates from the frequent foggy sight during winter, which gives it a misty and fantastical ambiance, making it a popular attraction for many newlyweds’ wedding photo shoot! Following the hiking trail up into Xinshan and having a bird’s-eye view of Dream Lake, tourists will feel the tranquility and be freshened up from the summer heat. On the return trip back to downtown Xizhi, visitors are recommended to visit Xizhi Old Street on their way home. It is where Xizhi began its development and where many historic sites have been preserved. In this neighborhood, there are the old Babao Glass Noodle shop of more than 30 years and the legendary 6-decade-old savory porridge shop; and the evening market by the train station offers a wide array of hearty tasty eats. As the sky grows dark, the twinkling star lights over the Keelung River, and the winding S-shaped Starlight Bridge also shines like the stars in a galaxy after it is lit up at night. There is no better ending for your day as you take a walk after enjoying the street eats while enjoying the starry light!

“Laomei turns green!” is a warm greeting full of vitality on the north coast. From the middle of March to early May each year, the coastline of Shimen District, which is situated in the northernmost end of Taiwan main island, is decorated with reefs covered in green algae, turning it into a stunningly beautiful matcha green carpet. It also represents the arrival of the God of Spring in this rainy land and the season for travelling on the Norther Coast. Let’s visit the coastline of Shimen to explore the vigorous green troughs, play hide and seek in the maze of Laomei, and fly kites on the coast to enjoy the warm and pleasant scenery of Shimen!The “Xingfushuangxin Park” (literally referred to the “Happiness Double Heart Park”) newly established in 2022 has adopted the traditional “khan-koo” fishing technique (literally referred to “seine-fishing technique”) to create the installation art “The Khan-Koo Dream Weave”. Through the giant stainless-steel framework fitted with colorful glass pieces, this design presents changes in light and shadow under the spring sun’s shine as our perspectives and time shift. There are also specially designed interactive experience facilities, such as the conch sound-controlled lift system, a square featuring the imagery of a lighthouse man, and sampan-shaped seating. Reputed as the most beautiful park on the north coast, all visitors, including children, can find fun here.The stone troughs formed by volcanic reefs that remained on the coast after the eruption of the Tatun Volcano Group are covered with a large amount of algae during the spring of each year, turning the earth-gray reefs into a lush and natural wonder of greenery. Alongside the crystal blue ocean, this matcha mochi-like unique landscape has attracted numerous photography enthusiasts coming here. At low tide, small ponds also form between the rocks, allowing visitors to observe fascinating marine life. Before your departure, you can browse the tide forecast for Shimen released by the Central Weather Bureau to capture the beauty of lush green troughs at the right low tide timing!Laomei stone troughs, commonly known as “Laomei Green Reef”, feature fine sandy beaches and creatively shaped rocky shores, resembling rows of slender green dolphins basking on the beach. Stone troughs are formed by volcanic reefs, which are ideal for algae to attach to and grow. After the algae die, their remains will form thin layers of limestone, and new algae will attach to this layer. As algae continue to die and attach to the new layer, they eventually create this beautiful algae reef. When coming there to relish the beauty of green reefs, please remember not to stand on the stone troughs. Let’s contribute to the sustainability of the local ecology.In the windbreak behind Laomei Beach, red-brick walls have created winding and intricate pathways. This transforms Laomei Green Reef into something resembling an extraterrestrial relic and a must-visit popular photo spot on the North Coast. Apart from challenging your sense of direction and memory on your own in the maze, you can also play or enjoy a game of hide-and-seek with your friends and family inside.Characterized by black and white stripes, the Fuguei Cape Lighthouse that stands erect between the mountains and ocean is the northernmost lighthouse on the Taiwan main island. Since its establishment in 1897, it has been faithfully guarding vessels passing through the north coast. When the sun sets, looking eastward from the west side of the lighthouse, you'll see the fiery red afterglow reflected on the lighthouse, creating a magical spectacle that photography enthusiasts eagerly seek.“With soaring spirits into the clouds, we joyfully fly kites, hoping to reach the highest heavens. To ascend the kites on high, it all depends on the thread held in our hands.” This Chinese poem written by the Kaitai Imperial Scholar, Zheng Yong-xi, describes the scenery of the millennia-old flying kite activity. Situated on the windward side of the northeast monsoon, Shimen is reputed as “The Homeland of Kites” as the strong sea breeze has created an excellent environment for flying kites. Shimen, serving as the host location for the annual Taiwan International Kite Festival, draws in numerous foreign and domestic skilled kite enthusiasts each year. Pick up your own kite and run against the wind. Let's join the colorful kites to soar amidst the breathtaking scenery of Shimen's sea and sky.