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!

Banqiao is truly filled with bloggers’ photo hot spots! Guangzheng Street near Banqiao Train Station is also known as “brunch street”, which offers many popular brunch places that are not only all distinctive, delicious, and great photo spots, but are also fully packed every weekend. After enjoying some delectable afternoon tea, head to Banqiao 435 Art Zone, where the rainbow umbrella installation art is a popular social media check-in spot widely known among bloggers; and now there is a newly open secret check-in spot nearby! Nanzigou Pumping Station located at Huanhe West Road has been partially rebuilt and transformed into a biker rest stop. An adorable Little Prince and the little fox are drawn on the wall; hold up the one and only rose and take a picture with it– it will be as fantastical as landing on planet B612! Then, come to Crescent Bridge where you can take more beautifully dreamy picture. You think you got good photo-taking skills?! Then come and take a shot of beautiful reflected 8! For the last stop, let’s end with a great meal – Xinzhuang Temple Street Night Market that is approximately 5-minute walk from Crescent Bridge is a historical night market that you should not miss! The area had once been a bustling gathering place for business people, so there are many historic temple sites and eateries nearby – Taiwanese spring roll, starchy meat soup, and pork blood soup are all reasonably priced with big portions, so you will definitely be full and satisfied!